Reasons to Visit Peru
The Andes in Peru are home a vast array of micro-climates and eco-systems. Deserts, canyons, high altiplano, lush cloudforest, fertile valleys, snow capped peaks and glaciers, and not to forget classic Inca terracing systems, are all common landscapes that can be seen on a trip within the country.
Beyond the renowned famous Inca trail to Machu Picchu, southern Peru offers dozens of treks and walks. Whether you are seeking a one day walk through Andean villages or a 10 day trek along less-trodden trails then there will be an option for you. Whilst most treks involve basic camping, there are also some lodge to lodge options for those seeking a little more comfort.
Machu Picchu is the obvious draw of any trip to Peru, but there are many more Inca and pre-Incan sites to interest archaeologists and historians at all levels. From the Sacred Valley of the Inca’s to the lesser explored pre-Incan ruins on the northern coast and the vast pre-Incan city of Kuelap, Peru has the greatest array of sites in South America.
Peru has many fine examples of colonial architecture throughout the country. Lima, Arequipa and Cuzco have well documented and beautifully-maintained historical centres that take visitors back to the Spanish era.
The draw for trekkers from across the globe, the Classic Inca Trail takes walkers on a 4-day adventure through the high Andes and past a huge number of small Inca sites, all the way to Machu Picchu. Diversifying in recent years, the trail can offer options for all abilities, budgets and timescales. Alternative Inca trails also provide the opportunity to get away from the mainstream and provide varied levels of comfort.
The jewel in the Inca crown set high on a plateau in the Andes. Breath-takingly beautiful the site rarely disappoints. The trick to exploring these majestic ruins is in the planning process, which is where our country specialists come in.
Easily accessible from Cuzco, the southern Peruvian rainforest has a number of simple lodges, catering for guests who are looking for their first Amazon experience through to the ultimate wildlife enthusiasts. Alternatively, from the northern city of Iquitos, travellers can choose from a number of cruise boats into the pristine Pacaya Samiria Reserve.
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The fertile Sacred Valley was at the spiritual and commercial heart of the Inca empire.
Perched high on a mountain ridge and hidden from the world for hundreds of years, the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu are the jewel in Peru's crown. Use this guide to find out more about trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and useful information to help plan your trip to this famous 'Lost City of the Incas'.
Trekking in Peru offers hikes to suit all abilities, from steady, single day walks to demanding 12-day treks. Read our guide to walking and trekking in Peru, including hiking the famous Inca Trail to the hidden ruins of Machu Picchu.
This winding and fertile valley between Pisac and Ollantaytambo was at the spiritual and commercial heart of the Inca empire.
A half-day tour of the city and nearby Inca ruins begins at Koricancha, which was the Inca’s sumptuous Temple of Sun before becoming the Spaniard’s Santo Domingo church.
From the Andes, Machu Picchu and the source of the Amazon to beautiful, vibrant colonial cities, our Peru specialists have thoroughly explored this dramatic country and will carefully plan your itinerary for a truly individual tailor-made trip.
10 Days from £2,365pp
A classic trip focussing on the heart of the Inca empire, experiencing Lima, the unique fusion of Spanish colonial and Incan architecture in Cuzco, the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas and, of course, the breathtaking Machu Picchu.
13 Days from £2,900pp
Combine the unique eco-system of the Amazon with an unforgettable trip to Cuzco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
14 Days from £3,870pp
A 14 day trip focusing on three of South America highlights - the impressive Machu Picchu, the mighty Iguacu Falls and vibrant Rio de Janeiro.
15 1/2 hours (Lima, via Madrid)
Air Europa, Air France, Iberia, KLM & LAN
GMT-5 hours
The best time to travel.
A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.
Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.
Travel is not recommended.
Snow or ski season.
Further reading:When to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout PeruCountry Guides
Other countries in South America:ArgentinaBoliviaBrazilChileColombiaEcuadorGuyanaParaguayThe Falkland IslandsThe Galapagos IslandsUruguayVenezuela