Best Things to Do in Peru

The list of things to do in Peru extends to mouth-watering extents; the most amazing of it all is visiting Machu Picchu, which is among the New Seven Wonders of the World. This ancient Incan city high in the Andes promises a glimpse of the ingenuity and mystery that envelops the culture of the Incas. Also, the way to Machu Picchu is an adventure, hike the famous Inca Trail, or take the beautiful train ride from Cusco or even try one of the alternative routes such as the Salkantay Trek.

True explorers will not stop at that; the Sacred Valley and the city of Cusco will give them even more aspects of the Incan history and culture. Sacred Valley is indeed a wonderful place, not only has very beautiful landscapes, abundant and still-preserved ruins like Ollantaytambo and Pisac but also it has the wonderful and interesting past which hails from nature lovers and history buffs alike. The other place is Cusco, the center of the Inca Empire, a lively city where the echoes of the past blend in to perfection with the present times. Certainly, one of the most charming cities in the world, it melts every traveler with its cubed-stoned streets and colonial buildings, all topped off with vibrant local markets.

Then there's the Amazon rainforest, which dominates much of Peru and is only a small part of this region. Experience a tour that will let you witness the amazing biodiversity of this area. The paradise of nature lovers, bright wildlife, and a different type of plant are what the Amazon is said to be. Tambopata National Reserve and Manu Biosphere Reserve are just among the best places to explore the rich ecosystems of the Amazon. Unique guided boat tours, canopy walks, and night safaris provide once-in-a-lifetime experiences of the region's flora and fauna.

On top of that, a visit to Lake Titicaca might enable one to know the best place on earth, the highest navigable lake, and culture on it to explore the Uros way as they live on floating reed islands. The islands of Taquile and Amantani provide further cultural immersion, with opportunities to stay with local families and learn about their traditional way of life. The serene beauty of Lake Titicaca, combined with its cultural richness, makes it one of the top places to visit in Peru.

Best Time to Visit Peru

The best time to visit Peru is determined by the regions where you plan to go. As a general rule, the dry season running from May to October is considered the finest time for visiting Peru, especially for trekking and outdoor activities. The weather is beautiful, and the clear skies give the best conditions for sightseeing and photography coupled with a highly active tourist season, thus making popular sites crowded. 

However, if you want to avoid crowds and do not mind a little rain on the way, the shoulders in April and November may be a great time to visit. These two months generally offer good weather with fewer crowds, making them ideal for a Peru vacation. The wet season, which lasts from November to April, is a golden opportunity for people who are looking forward to the exploration of the Amazon because, despite the rains, the rainforest is fully bloomed and a variety of wildlife can be spotted. 

This is a best time to visit Peru; the weather often proves to be as varied as its landscapes. It is, indeed, a country with three central geographic regions: coastal desert, Andean highlands, and Amazon rainforest. The coastal region, where Lima is included, generally has a mild climate with little rainfall throughout the year. Summers (December to March) are warm and sultry, while winters (June to September) are much cooler and frequently overcast. 

However, the highlands have two distinct sea son: a dry season from May to October and a rainy season from November to April-with sunny days followed by chilly nights, hence making it the best time to visit Peru for tourists who want trekking and outdoor activities. While the season attracts few tourists and very few hikers, it's the best time of year to experience nature's spectacle in Peru, when landscapes can be an incredibly verdant green in the middle of the national parks and rainforests.

Best Places to Visit Peru

Peru is home to numerous attractions that cater to various interests. Some of the top places to visit Peru include:

1. Machu Picchu: A striking monument of ancient engineering, the Incan citadel Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an embodiment of civilizational ingenuity on the part of the Incan civilization. The site offers impressions of the mountains and valley ranges surrounding it.
2. Cusco: The former capital of the Incas, and still rich in archaeological sites and colonial architecture. The cities' colorful markets, museums, and nearby ruins make it a destination for cultural explorers.
3. Lima: The capital city is a bustling center in itself endowed with a very vibrant culinary scene and rich cultural heritage. Lima's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with very beautiful colonial buildings, plazas, and churches.
4. Lake Titicaca: The highest navigable lake in the world with very unique cultural possibilities offered by the Uros people; more are provided by the islands of Taquile and Amantani, its capacity to immerse you in the local tradition.
5. The Amazon Rainforest: Diverse flora and fauna exploring this expansive, pristine wilderness. Nodes such as Puerto Maldonado and Iquitos are accesses to all the incredible biodiversity found within the wide ranges of the Amazon. 
6. Arequipa: The beautiful white volcanic stone buildings and the stunning landscapes surround this "White City." Monastery features of the Santa Catalina and Colca Canyon number among many listed attractions. 
7. Nazca Lines: Geoglyphs that rather mysteriously define a part of the desert floor, which are best viewed from the air. With designs that continue to baffle researchers and tourists alike, the Nazca Lines are recognized as yet another UNESCO World Heritage site. 
8. Sacred Valley: A very beautiful place, rich in history and scattered with numerous Inca ruins, traditional villages, and fascinating markets, this valley is full of fertility and captivating landscapes. One cannot create a complete visit in such a place.

Travel Tips

When planning your Peru vacation, you must be prepared with the right Peru travel tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here's a brief guide to help you get ready:

1. Altitude Sickness: Those symptoms would come when going to regions with increased altitude such as Cusco or Machu Picchu. Be aware that the most common symptoms are headache, nausea, and shortness of breath. By then, you might have spent a couple of days acclimating to the heights of Cusco before embarking on strenuous activities, like hiking. Drinking coca tea, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol are effective countermeasures against the trouble.
2. Vaccinations: Make sure your vaccinations are up to date with the routine vaccinations you have. Depending on the itinerary, yellow fever and hepatitis A and B, plus typhoid and rabies, vaccinations may be advisable, especially if the travel is to the Amazon area. It is best to consult your doctor at least six weeks before leaving for a trip to discuss vaccination requirements.
3. Food and Water Safety: Stick to bottled or boiled water, and be cautious with street food. Although Peru's cuisine is much famed worldwide, care should be taken to confirm that the food is cleanly made and served. To this end, well-cooked done food would be appropriate, while raw or poorly cooked seafood and meat should be avoided.
4. Clothing: Peru has highly varying climatic conditions, and hence one of the important considerations in packing is type of clothes to bring. Lightweight and breathable clothing are excellent for use in coastal and Amazon regions. Warm underlayers, however, are good to have on standby for exposure to highlands. A good pair of trekking boots is essential for treks. Do not forget that you will need sun protection; so take along a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen when heading out. 
5. Documents: Ensure your passport is valid for six months beyond the travel dates. Keep photocopies of your passport, visa (if necessary), travel insurance document, and anything else that may be vital in case the original is lost or stolen. It's also wise to carry a few extra passport-size photos for any permits or passes you may need during your travels.

Leisure-Way

At Leisure, we turn the wonders of Peru into tailor-made journeys that show you the heart of this enchanting destination. Trek through ancient ruins at Machu Picchu, walk the colorful streets of Cusco, or sail on the mystical waters of Lake Titicaca; and allow our travel experts to work out a personalized adventure for you. From the towering Andes peaks to the cascading Amazon rainforest, we make sure every detail of your trip corresponds completely with your interests and desires.

Our concept of planning is also classy and personalized in terms of approach. Come to connect with our passionate travel consultants who will guide you towards each point of the way and ensure that your itinerary is full to capacity in terms of preferences. Curated experiences that could take you to a whole new level of life with an in-depth understanding of the diverse landscapes of Peru, culture, and world-class cuisine.

Offers you not only the confidence but also the assurance knowing that you have our full support in all your travels. Our 24/7 assistance means you can always explore Peru without worry, allowing you to soak fully in each moment. From the hectic markets of Lima to the still hush of the Sacred Valley, your adventure through Peru would have been experienced with beautiful memories and a significance created. We promise that traveling with us will lead you to a very unusual adventure that will keep memories of Peru's marvelous sights and impressive culture forever in your mind. Now plan your vacation to Peru at Leisure and allow us to lead you beyond the average tourist track to discover the real magic of this amazing country.

FAQs

Is Peru suitable for tourists?

The country of Peru is one of the best tourist destinations with its rich cultural experience, varied geography, and the very famous tourist site in the world, Machu Picchu. The country's tourism infrastructure is sufficiently well developed to provide accommodation, guided tours, and activities suitable for different interests and budgets.  

What is the best month to visit Peru?

Dependent upon your itinerary, the best time to visit Peru usually falls in the dry season between May and October. This is when the majority of people visit the country for its best trekking and highland exploring conditions. The skies are clear and rainfall is minimal. However, the two shoulder months, April and November, are also good options because of light crowds and slightly lower prices for decent weather.

Is Peru an affordable vacation destination?

Definitely, yes. Peru is very affordable compared to most other countries. Depending on the experience you're looking for, your vacation in Peru may vary; nonetheless, it has all kinds of budgets. Public transport is cheap and the entrance fees to places like Machu Picchu are quite affordable. These cost savings are also available to you if you choose packages to travel in Peru.

What is Peru most known for?

It is not subject to much discussion; Peru is known for its ancient Incan civilization and the most famous place in the ruin of Machu Picchu. It is also known to have different types of landscapes, relatively like Andes mountains, the Amazon rainforest, and coastal desert.

What is the best month to travel to Peru?

The best month to travel to Peru depends on your specific plans. June to August offers the best weather for trekking and visiting highland regions like Machu Picchu and Cusco. However, if you’re looking to avoid crowds, consider traveling in April, May, or November, when the weather is still favorable and tourist numbers are lower.