Quick answer: Peru is South America’s archaeological treasure. Machu Picchu, Inca trails, ceviche, Amazon, deserts.
This complete guide covers everything you need: best time, getting there, getting around, where to stay, what to eat, etiquette, money, language, and safety.
Best Time to Visit Peru
May-October for dry season (best for Machu Picchu). November-April is rainy.
How to Get to Peru
Lima (LIM) main hub. 8-12 hours from US. Direct flights from major cities.
Getting Around
Domestic flights connect major cities. Buses cheap but slow. Cars not recommended.
Where to Stay
Lima: Miraflores, Barranco. Cusco: Plaza de Armas, San Blas. Aguas Calientes for Machu Picchu.
Top Destinations
Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lima, Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa, Nazca, Amazon.
What to Eat
Ceviche, lomo saltado, anticuchos, papas a la huancaina, pisco sour, quinoa dishes, chicha morada.
Cultural Etiquette
Acclimatize for altitude (Cusco 11,000 ft). Drink coca tea. Bargain in markets.
Money Matters
Peruvian sol. Cards widely accepted. ATMs available. USD accepted in major hotels.
Language
Spanish. Some Quechua in Andes. English in tourist areas.
Safety
Generally safe for tourists. Use registered taxis. Watch for altitude sickness.
Plan Your Trip
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Peru?
May-October for dry season (best for Machu Picchu). November-April is rainy.
How long should I plan for Peru?
7-10 days minimum for highlights. 14+ for deeper exploration.
How much does a trip to Peru cost?
Mid-range: $130-220/day. Use our cost calculator.
Is Peru safe?
Generally safe for tourists. Use registered taxis. Watch for altitude sickness.
Do I need a visa for Peru?
Depends on nationality. Check our visa guide.
Related Guides
Related Articles
- Best Time to Visit Peru (2026 Region Guide)
- 10-Day Peru Itinerary: Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu
- How Much Does a Trip to Peru Cost?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Complete worth visiting?
Yes. Complete rewards travelers who are willing to look beyond the surface. From local food to cultural sites, there is plenty to discover for every type of traveler.
How many days should I spend in Complete?
Plan for at least 3-4 days to cover the main highlights. A week allows for day trips and a more relaxed pace that lets you experience the destination more deeply.
What is the best way to get to Complete?
Options typically include flights to the nearest international airport, followed by local transport. Check for direct flight routes from your departure city for the most convenient travel.
Do I need travel insurance for Complete?
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for any international trip. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage ??? risks that are expensive to handle out of pocket.
You Might Also Love
Written by
John Morrison is the founder and lead travel writer at Packzup. Over the past decade he has explored destinations across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania — always self-funded, never on a press trip.