Peru

Thinking of travelling to Peru?

Peru is one of South America’s most rewarding and varied destinations. From the colonial streets of Lima and the ancient Inca capital of Cusco to the dramatic scenery of the Andes, the Amazon rainforest and the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu, Peru offers an extraordinary mix of history, culture, wildlife and landscapes.

The country is home to some of the world’s most important archaeological sites, including Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, whilst its diverse geography ranges from Pacific coastline and desert to cloud forest and high mountain peaks. Peru is also renowned for its food, with Lima widely regarded as one of the culinary capitals of South America.

Llama Travel holidays to Peru are designed to show the country at a comfortable pace, combining the highlights with time to properly experience each destination. Many holidays can also be extended to include Lake Titicaca, the Amazon rainforest, Colca Canyon, Arequipa, Paracas, the Nazca Lines, or beach stays in Mancora. For the more active, trekking options such as the Inca Trail, Short Inca Trail and Salkantay Trail are also available.

Before You Go

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Peru from the UK?

A: British passport holders do not currently require a visa to visit Peru for stays of up to 90 days. Your passport should be valid for at least six months after your return date.

Immigration officials may ask for proof of onward travel and accommodation details on arrival, so it is worth keeping copies of your itinerary and booking confirmations handy.

As entry requirements can change, we recommend checking the latest Foreign Office advice before travel.

Q: What vaccinations do I need for Peru?

A: We recommend speaking to your GP or travel clinic before travelling for the latest health advice and vaccination recommendations.

Yellow fever precautions are usually recommended if visiting the Peruvian jungle. TravelHealthPro provides useful and up-to-date travel health advice for Peru.

Q: What should I pack for a holiday in Peru?

A: Peru has a very varied climate, so packing layers is essential. In Cusco and the Andes, days are often sunny and mild, whilst temperatures can drop sharply at night. The jungle is hot and humid year-round, whilst Lima and the coast can feel cooler, particularly between May and September.

We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle and warm layers for high altitude areas. Lip balm can also be useful in the Andes.

Q: What plug sockets do I need for Peru?

A: Peru uses 220V electricity and flat two-pin plug sockets, so you will need a travel adapter.

Practical Information

Q: Where is Peru?

A: Peru is located on the west coast of South America, bordered by Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia and Chile, with a long Pacific coastline.

Q: What is the capital city of Peru?

A: Lima is the capital of Peru and the country’s largest city.

Q: What is the population of Peru?

A: Peru has a population of around 34 million people.

Q: What is the time difference between the UK and Peru?

A: Peru GMT -5.

Q: How long does it take to fly from the UK to Peru?

A: Flight times vary depending on the airline and route, although journeys are typically around 14–17 hours, including connections.

Q: What language is spoken in Peru?

A: Spanish is the main language spoken in Peru, although Quechua and Aymara are also widely spoken in the Andes.

English is spoken in many hotels and tourist areas, and all guides used on Llama Travel holidays speak English.

Q: What currency is used in Peru?

A: The currency of Peru is the Peruvian Sol.

Q: Can I use credit cards and cash machines in Peru?

A: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, and cash machines are available throughout most of the country. In more remote areas, such as the jungle or Colca Canyon, carrying some cash is advisable.

Q: What’s the weather like in Peru?

A: In the Andes, including Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Arequipa and Lake Titicaca, the dry season runs from April to October. During this time, days are usually sunny and mild, although nights can be very cold due to the altitude. March and November are more changeable months, whilst the heaviest rainfall is usually between December and February.

On the coast, including Lima and Paracas, temperatures are warm throughout the year. From April to November, skies are often overcast, although rain is rare. December to March is generally sunnier and warmer.

In the Amazon rainforest, including Puerto Maldonado, the climate is hot and humid year-round. There is usually less rain between May and September, making this one of the best periods for wildlife viewing.

Q: Is Peru good for first-time visitors to South America?

A: Yes. Peru is often considered one of the best introductions to South America thanks to its mix of history, scenery, wildlife and good tourism infrastructure.

Q: When should I book the Inca Trail?

A: If you are planning to hike the Inca Trail, we strongly recommend booking well in advance. The Peruvian government strictly limits the number of permits available each day to help prevent overcrowding on the trail. Only 500 permits are issued per day, and this total includes guides, porters, cooks and support staff, leaving around 200 permits available for trekkers themselves.

Permits are released each October for the following year, and some dates can sell out within days. The most popular months are typically April (especially around Easter), May, June, July, August and September.

Q: Do I need to organise Machu Picchu tickets in advance?

A: Yes. Machu Picchu tickets should always be booked in advance, particularly during the busiest months, as visitor numbers and entrance times are strictly controlled.

The ticketing system for Machu Picchu can be quite complicated, with different circuits, timed entrances and shuttle bus regulations in place. However, when travelling with Llama Travel, all of this is arranged for you, including your Machu Picchu entrance tickets, train travel and shuttle buses.

Many travellers also choose to return to Machu Picchu for a second day, allowing more time to explore the ruins and surrounding scenery at a relaxed pace. Where possible, Llama Travel will try to secure the earliest available entrance time for second-day visits, although these often sell out quickly.

Health & Safety

Q: Is Peru safe to travel to?

A: Most visitors to Peru have a completely trouble-free holiday. As with anywhere in the world, sensible precautions should still be taken, particularly in larger cities and busy tourist areas.

We recommend avoiding displaying valuables openly and using hotel safes where available.

Q: What is altitude sickness, and should I be worried?

A: Much of Peru, including Cusco, Lake Titicaca and the Inca Trail, is at high altitude. Most people experience some shortness of breath when they first arrive, but serious problems are uncommon.

We recommend taking things slowly during your first couple of days at altitude, drinking plenty of water and avoiding heavy meals or alcohol initially. Coca tea is widely available and is often used locally to help with altitude symptoms.

Q: Do I need travel insurance for Peru?

A: Yes. You should have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical treatment, cancellation and emergency repatriation.

If you are trekking the Inca Trail or taking part in adventure activities, please ensure your policy covers these activities and high-altitude trekking.

Connectivity & Communication

Q: Will my phone work in Peru?

A: Most UK mobiles will work in Peru, although we recommend checking with your provider before travel if you are unsure. eSIMs, such as Airalo or Holafly, are becoming an increasingly popular and often cost-effective way to access mobile data abroad. Local SIM cards are also widely available in Peru.

To call the UK from Peru, dial +44 followed by the UK number, leaving out the first ‘0’. To call Peru from the UK, dial +51 followed by the Peruvian number.

Q: Will I get Wi-Fi in Peru?

A: Most hotels, cafés and restaurants in Peru offer Wi-Fi, particularly in Lima, Cusco and other tourist areas. Connections can be slower in more remote regions, including parts of the Amazon rainforest.

Getting Around

Q: How do I get around in Peru?

A: Most journeys on Llama Travel holidays are by private transfer, domestic flight or train.

In cities, taxis are inexpensive and widely available, although they are generally unmetered, so prices should normally be agreed before starting the journey. We recommend arranging taxis through your hotel, where possible.

Q: How do you get to Machu Picchu?

A: Most travellers reach Machu Picchu by train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to the town of Aguas Calientes, followed by a short shuttle bus ride up to the ruins. For a more active experience, it is also possible to arrive on foot via the Inca Trail or Short Inca Trail.

Food & Drink

Q: What’s the food like in Peru?

A: Peru has one of the most exciting food scenes in Latin America and Lima is widely regarded as one of the world’s great culinary cities.

Peruvian cuisine combines indigenous, Spanish, African and Asian influences. Seafood, potatoes, quinoa, maize and fresh vegetables all feature heavily.

Popular dishes include ceviche, fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice with chilli and onion; lomo saltado, a stir-fried beef dish with onions, tomatoes and chips; and causa, a layered potato dish often filled with chicken, tuna or avocado.

Q: Where should I go for food in Peru?

A: Lima is the culinary capital of Peru and home to some of South America’s best restaurants. The districts of Miraflores and Barranco are particularly known for their food scene, with everything from traditional cevicherias to world-class fine dining.

Cusco also has an excellent restaurant scene, with many restaurants serving modern Peruvian cuisine alongside traditional Andean dishes.

Q: Can I drink tap water in Peru?

A: We recommend drinking bottled or filtered water throughout Peru.

Q: What drinks is Peru known for?

A: Peru’s national drink is the pisco sour, a cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, egg white and bitters. It is served throughout the country and is one of Peru’s best-known specialities.

Peru is also known for its excellent coffee, particularly from the highland and jungle regions, whilst fresh fruit juices are widely available thanks to the country’s huge variety of tropical fruits.

What to See

Q: What are the highlights of Peru?

A: Peru has an extraordinary variety of highlights, ranging from ancient Inca ruins and colonial cities to rainforest, mountains and desert landscapes. Exactly what you see will depend on the regions and extensions included in your holiday.

Many travellers focus on Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, whilst popular extensions include Lake Titicaca, the Amazon rainforest, Colca Canyon, Arequipa, Paracas and the Nazca Lines. Beach stays in Mancora, and trekking options such as the Inca Trail and Salkantay Trail are also available.

Q: Can I visit Machu Picchu?

A: Yes. Machu Picchu is one of Peru’s highlights, and a visit can be included on our Peru holidays. Built by the Incas high in the Andes, it is one of the world’s great archaeological sites and remains remarkably well preserved. Surrounded by steep green mountains and cloud forest, the setting is every bit as impressive as the ruins themselves. The way you reach Machu Picchu can vary depending on your holiday, with some travellers arriving by scenic train through the Sacred Valley, whilst others choose to hike part of the Inca Trail for a more active experience.

Q: What is Cusco like?

A: Cusco was once the capital of the Inca Empire and remains one of Peru’s most fascinating cities. Today, it combines colonial churches and plazas with impressive Inca stonework and ruins. The city has a lively atmosphere, excellent restaurants and easy access to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Q: What is the Sacred Valley?

A: The Sacred Valley is a beautiful region of the Andes between Cusco and Machu Picchu, once at the heart of the Inca Empire. Surrounded by dramatic mountains, the valley is known for its Inca ruins, colourful markets, traditional villages and fertile farmland.

A stay in the Sacred Valley is a great way to acclimatise to the altitude and enjoy a slower pace before visiting Machu Picchu. Highlights include the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, the market town of Pisac, and the fascinating salt pans of Maras and agricultural terraces of Moray.

Q: What is Lake Titicaca like?

A: Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world and sits on the border between Peru and Bolivia. The lake is known for its beautiful scenery, traditional communities and the famous floating reed islands of the Uros people.

Q: Is the Inca Trail difficult?

A: The Inca Trail is challenging due to the altitude and steep mountain passes, although most people with a reasonable level of fitness can complete it. The scenery along the route is spectacular, with cloud forest, mountain passes and impressive Inca ruins before arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

Q: Can I visit the Amazon rainforest in Peru?

A: Yes. Peru is home to a large section of the Amazon rainforest, and many choose to add a jungle extension to their holiday. Puerto Maldonado is one of the main gateways into the Peruvian Amazon, offering excellent wildlife spotting opportunities, including monkeys, caiman, macaws and giant river otters.

Q: What wildlife can you see in Peru?

A: Peru has incredibly diverse wildlife thanks to its varied geography. Depending on where you travel, you may spot llamas, alpacas, condors, monkeys, caiman, macaws, sea lions and penguins.

Q: How many days do I need in Peru?

A: We recommend allowing at least 12–16 days to experience Peru comfortably, combining Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu at a relaxed pace. Many Llama Travel holidays also include extensions to the Amazon rainforest, Lake Titicaca or the Colca Canyon for a longer trip.

Q: Can I combine Peru with other countries?

A: Yes. Peru combines particularly well with Bolivia, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.

Still have questions about travelling to Peru?

Our team is happy to help. Call us on 020 7263 3000 or explore our Peru holidays to start planning your trip.

Peru is far more than just Machu Picchu – it’s a country full of incredible diversity and hidden treasures. From vibrant coastal towns to vast desert landscapes, and remote mountain villages, Peru offers an endless array of experiences. While the iconic Machu Picchu is a must-see, there’s so much more to uncover. Exploring Peru is a journey through history, culture, and stunning natural beauty, from the bustling streets of Lima to the serene Sacred Valley. Every moment in Peru is unforgettable, and here are twenty places you should visit and activities you should try when travelling in Peru according to Llama Travel, a Peru holidays specialist sending people to Peru since 2002.

The Cusco region is home to many, many Inca sites, most of which get few, if any, visitors. Huchuy Qosqo, means ‘Little Cusco’ in Quechua and is an impressive complex, with some fine stone structures, beautiful terracing and some of the most amazing views of anywhere in the area. Said to be a royal estate founded by the Inca Viracocha in the early 15th century, the site sits at over 3,650 metres, with the town of Lamay in the Sacred Valley almost 800 metres directly below, and facing the snow-capped peaks of the mountains on the other side of the valley. Despite being such an important and beautiful site, it receives hardly any visitors, mainly by dint of being only accessible by a fairly tough hike.

Exploring Peru felt like stepping into a world where history, culture, and nature blend in amazing ways. From the busy streets of Lima to the quiet Sacred Valley, everything felt  unique. I was constantly amazed by the diversity and richness of the country. Whether wandering through ancient ruins, tasting local cuisine, or enjoying the scenery, visiting Peru was an amazing experience.

One of our customers, Mr Kilner, visited Peru and Easter Island as part of a spectacular 19-night South American adventure with Llama Travel. Have a scroll through his photos to see some of the spectacular sights he explored including Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and the mysterious volcanic island in the Pacific, almost 2,200 miles off the coast of Chile. 

This trip has been in the offing since nearly two years ago when I was having lunch with Flo at our favourite eatery. She said to me, “Mum, do you still want to go to Peru?” . It’s something I’d dreamt of since learning about the people of the Andes at junior school, aged about 9 or 10 and had been inspired by the pictures of the people, their textiles and the mountains. We spent some time comparing companies and decided to go with Llama Travel, who gave us a good price and seemed friendly, experienced and well organised (the clue is in the name!).

So here I am in a twin room at the Casa Andina Select Hotel in Lima at the end of our first full day.

The Amazon. Otherwise known as the ‘Lungs of Planet Earth’ because it produces more than 20% of the world’s oxygen. It is a vast rainforest reaching into Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Peru and Bolivia, and boasts one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world. Life here moves at a different pace, and you’ll find it easy to slip into the jungle way of life – early starts to watch the sunrise, daily excursions to visit remote tribes and learn about their culture, boat trips to see endless wildlife and night-time adventures to discover the magic that goes on when the sun sets and the jungle comes alive with nocturnal creatures.

I was lucky enough to enjoy a few days in the Ecuadorian Amazon earlier this year, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Here are a few of my highlights...

On visiting Machu Picchu, some people are content to wander amongst the ruins, while others are keen to get a different perspective on them. Climbing Huayna Picchu, the sugarloaf mountain which rises above the ruins, is a favoured challenge when it comes to seeking out an elevated vantage point. Becky, our Australia sales manager did the climb on a backpacking trip a few years ago, and here she reminisces on the experience.

The main area of Machu Picchu is quite compact and a three-hour tour of the site allows plenty of time to explore this. However, Machu Picchu is much more than just the main ruins, and there are several other visits that can be made in the area. My favourite of all of these is the climb up Machu Picchu Mountain. This is hard work, but immensely rewarding, with the best views in the area.

Graham, a member of the Llama Travel sales team was lucky enough to be sent on the 4 day Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu, a popular alternative to the renowned Inca Trail. This is his account of a magnificent four days, giving you an idea of what to expect on the Salkantay Trek.

Latin America is a special part of the world, and each country offers its own gems. As the original Llama Travel destination though, Peru will always hold a special place in our hearts. Furthermore, as one of our most popular destinations, it is clear that our high opinion of Peru is widely shared. If you are wondering what all the fuss is about, read on for the reasons everybody loves Peru.

We're delighted that airlines are twigging on to the magic that is Latin America, and as the region's popularity grows, so airlines are responding. It is now easier than ever to get to Latin America from the UK,  with direct flights to various destinations throughout South and Central America. The latest flight announcement comes from British Airways, whose direct flight to San José, Costa Rica starts on April 27th 2016, and the direct flight to Lima, Peru starts on May 4th 2016. Both routes originate from London Gatwick. 

Next week sees the release of Paddington, a film adaptation of the classic children’s book series about a speckled bear who journeys from “darkest Peru” to England, and throws himself and everyone around him into a whirlwind of adventures.

Here at Llama Travel, we do the reverse; whisking people away from their cosy firesides in good old Blighty and off to the teeming jungles, vast lakes, soaring mountains and faraway cities of Peru and the rest of the Americas. Someone who took the reverse Paddington journey with us quite recently is Llama Travel’s own Sales Manager Graeme, and he found it hard to imagine why anyone, bear in a duffle coat or otherwise, would ever want to leave Peru!

Check out the below for Graeme’s top 5 list of what in darkest Peru is worth shining a spotlight on…