Peru has astounded the world with its huge desert glyphs, ancient empires and a centuries-old surviving culture.
Almost two thousand years ago, the Peruvian ancients drew enormous geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert to communicate with their gods. A millennium later, the Inca built their empire at Machu Picchu, a resplendent city soaring over the Andes. When the Spanish settled Cusco, they founded their beautiful yet devastating colonies of cathedrals, palaces and plazas. Today, these ancient mysteries and stunning sights are just part of Peru’s grand story.
What people say
Fantastic insight into the lives of Peruvian and Bolivian people. Tour guide was exceptional which made the difference between a good and fantastic holiday.
What people say
The ancient civilisations of Peru were nothing short of astounding, and this Peregrine trip allows you to improve your understanding of them as well as to experience at close hand the current vibrancy.
Peru travel highlights
Wander the temples of Machu Picchu
Your first glimpse of ‘The Lost City’ will steal your breath away, and as you scale the mysterious site, it only gets more wondrous. Find out more.
Feel commanding at Lima
After the Spanish conquest, Lima became the most powerful city in South America. Structures like the city cathedral attest to its former glory.
Cruise through Lake Titicaca
If the sapphire waters and the stately mountains aren’t enough, this significant lake hosts the fascinating Uros tribe who live on artificial islands.
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Articles on Peru
Peru holiday information
Peru facts
Local culture of Peru
Geography & environment
Shopping guide to Peru
Peru festival calendar
Food & drink in Peru
Further reading
Peru travel FAQs
Australia: Not required
Belgium: Not required
Canada: Not required
Germany: Not required
Ireland: Not required
Netherlands: Not required
New Zealand: Not required
South Africa: Not required
Switzerland: Not required
United Kingdom: Not required
United States: Not required
Tipping isn’t common practice in Peru. Some upmarket restaurants include a 10% surcharge and there’s no need to tip on top of this unless you want to.
You’ll be able to access internet in major cities and towns but not outside these areas.
Mobile phone coverage is good in urban areas but not in rural and remote places. Remember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your mobile while traveling.
Peru has both western-style toilets and basic squat toilets. Soap and toilet paper aren’t always provided so you may like to carry some with you.
- Short ride on a public city bus = 1 PEN
- 1 hour of internet use in a cyber café = 3 PEN
- Bottle of beer = 4 PEN
- Street cart snack/lunch = 6 PEN
- Lunch in a café = 15 PEN
- Dinner at a nice restaurant = 30 PEN
Drinking tap water is not considered safe in Peru. For environmental reasons, avoid buying bottled water and bring a bottle or canteen with you. Ask your leader where you can access filters to refill your supply, or carry your own purification tablets with you.
You’ll be able to use your credit card in places like hotels, restaurants and tourist-oriented shops, however you’ll need cash to make purchases from most local businesses.
You’ll find plenty of ATMs in major centres but they are less common in rural and remote places.
Yes. All peregrine passengers are required to purchase travel insurance prior to their trip. Your insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day.
For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/peru/public-holidays