Peru travel guides
Peru brings to mind images of the staggered walls of Machu Picchu, nestled against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, blue lakes, and green, terraced fields that spill down into the Amazon rainforest. The country is home to a wealth of rewarding opportunities, from scaling the Andean peaks or cruising the amazon, to observing the customs of its indigenous people. Whether you’re planning a journey of a lifetime to Machu Picchu or incorporating Peru into a larger trip, our travel guides can provide you with the inspiration you need to start planning your tailor-made holiday.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip by calling one of our Peru specialists on 1 800 817 858
Ideas for how to explore Peru
Our travel guides share our specialists’ passion and knowledge for Peru. We travel here regularly to discover new experiences, explore untried areas and dig deeper into the better-known places and attractions. At the same time, we gather advice and up-to-date information on the best-quality guides, new hotels and restaurants, and the most memorable forms of transportation.
The Inca civilisation
Discover the culture and history of a country on a tailor-made trip, with visits to explore famous sites and others not quite so well known but equally impressive.
South America’s greatest railway journeys: Peru’s Andean Explorer & Ecuador’s Tren Crucero
Travel on South America’s foremost luxury sleeper train service, Peru’s Belmond Andean Explorer, or voyage down Ecuador’s Avenue of Volcanoes on comfortable day trains. Audley specialist Holly describes why you might want to experience the continent from a railway carriage.
Machu Picchu plus one: tried-and-tested South American combinations
Did you know that thanks to ever-improving flight connections, you can easily combine Machu Picchu with other South American destinations such as the Galapagos and Argentina — without the need to extend your trip drastically? Our specialists explain how.
Where to go in the Amazon: planning your journey into the rainforest
Audley specialist Rebecca shares why she loves the Amazon, but explains that planning a trip there comes with a few caveats. She suggests you ask yourself: what is it I really want to see and do in the rainforest?
Discovering Peru's forgotten North
Here you’ll find that the Incas are a footnote, their thunder stolen by the relics of earlier civilizations. Northern Peru travel involves getting well and truly off the beaten track in sierra, cloudforest and coastal desert, explains Peru specialist Chloe.
Peru’s Inca wonders beyond Machu Picchu
Former Cuzco resident Fiona shares her choice of her adopted country’s lesser-known Inca ruins, which share Machu Picchu’s geography but not its fame. She explains how to delve even deeper into the best archaeological sites of the Peruvian Incas.
Visit Machu Picchu: A first timer's guide
Perched high on a mountain ridge and hidden from the world for hundreds of years, the ruins of Machu Picchu are the jewel in Peru's crown. One of our Peru specialists gives a personal account of how to get the most from your visit.
What to do in Peru: our highlights guide
Peru specialist and former resident Fiona shares her top places to experience in Peru. She explains what to see and do in the Sacred Valley, how to best experience Amazonian wildlife, and recommends a lesser-known region of Peru to explore.
Standout food experiences you can try in Peru (chosen by a food lover)
Peru’s food scene is courting attention for good reason, says specialist Josh. He outlines some of the food-related experiences you can include in your own trip, and shares his tips for eating well in this part of South America.
Trekking to and around Machu Picchu
Trekking to and around Machu Picchu offers walks to suit all abilities, from day hikes to multi-day treks. Peru specialist, Anna, picks some of her top choices, including the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek and short walks from Machu Picchu.
Trekking holidays in Peru: the best hikes (that aren’t the Inca Trail)
Who says Peru trekking holidays should revolve around the Inca Trail? Our specialists share their pick of the alternatives on offer, from gentler options to remote backcountry routes — all of which you can easily incorporate into a Peru trekking tour.
Festivals in Central & South America
Latin America boasts many festivals, from the solemn processions of Holy Week to the raucous party of Carnival to the recreated glory of an Inca sun ritual. Let our specialists suggest where to go to discover these vibrant cultural events.