Peru

South America Travel Guide

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Machu Pichu through the window.

© Gianella Castro

Why visit Peru

Peru is a land of skyscraping peaks, vast jungle, and multilayered archaeology. From the world’s tallest tropical mountain and highest navigable lake to rich biodiversity that ranks among the globe’s greatest, Peru offers both natural and cultural wonders. History seekers can explore Caral-Supe, the oldest-known civilization in the Americas, alongside ancient marvels like Kuélap and Chavín de Huántar, while adventurers can trek rugged Andes trails, wander deserted ruins, or swing from a hammock deep in the Amazon. You’ll find endless Peru travel inspiration across its three distinct regions: the misty Pacific coast with surf beaches and prehistoric sites, the snow-dusted Andes crowned by Machu Picchu and the Cordillera Blanca, and the lush Amazon Basin stretching from Iquitos to the untouched wilderness of Pacaya-Samiria. Not sure where to start? Plan your adventure with our travel inspiration and tips covering top attractions, when to visit and expert advice.

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Peru Uncovered: A Journey from Coast to Andes

14 days / 13 nights

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  1. 1 Embarking on a 10-hour luxury train ride through the Andes and over the Altiplano
  2. 2 Watching llamas and vicuñas graze at the foothills of volcanic mountains
  3. 3 Finding the sacred in the Sacred Valley, where intricate engineering reflects Incan ingenuity
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Top places to visit in Peru

Discover the best attractions in Peru from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

Travel Guides

Peru travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Best Things to Do

From the Andes to the Amazon rainforest to the stunning coast, Peru offers endless adventure.


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Best Time to Visit

Whether you're a foodie bound for Lima or an adventurer heading for the Inca Trail, find the perfect time for your Peru vacation here.


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Things to Know

Often called Machu Picchu's little sister, Choquequirao can only be reached on foot. Lonely Planet editor Melissa Yeager shows you want to expect.


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Transportation

Exploring Peru is a real adventure and worth every minute of extra planning. Here’s our guide to getting around once you're here.


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Visa Requirements

Curious if you need a visa for visiting Peru? Here's all you need to know.


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Best Road Trips

From lesser-known pre-Incan archaeological sites to lush jungles and tranquil beaches, these are the best road trips in Peru.


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Money and Costs

Peru has long been a destination for backpackers on a budget and now other travelers have caught on – here's how to make your money go further on the road.


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Traveling with Kids

Every adventure-seeking family with a great appetite should have Peru on their "dream destinations" list. Here are the best things to do there with kids.


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Best Places to Visit

It's hard to know where to go in Peru – known for cuisine, culture and biodiversity. Let this list of 13 kickstart a visit to this South American darling.


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Spending Diaries

Writer Mary Kearl and her family spent three days traveling to and around Machu Picchu, here's what they spent.


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Get Connected

Stay fully connected on your next trip to Peru with this guide to local wi-fi networks, roaming charges, eSIMs and data


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