Best Destinations to Travel to in Republic of Peru
Best Destinations to Travel to in Republic of Peru
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About Republic of Peru
Peru is one of the most captivating countries in South America, home to the legendary Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and the enigmatic Nazca Lines. Its landscapes range from wild Amazon jungles and vast coastal deserts to the icy peaks of the Andes, offering a biodiversity rarely found within a single country. The friendly, multi-ethnic population — a blend of indigenous groups, mestizos, and criollos — adds a rich cultural layer with colorful traditions and a world-renowned cuisine.
The country's deep history spans ancient civilizations such as the Chavín, Moche, Nazca, and the Inca Empire, whose legacy is visible in archaeological treasures across the land. After the Spanish conquest, Peru became the largest of the Spanish viceroyalties in the Americas, and its colonial past is still reflected in the architecture of cities like Lima and Cusco. Modern Peru offers travelers an enchanting mix of ancient ruins, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality, making it a destination that appeals to adventurers, history buffs, and food lovers alike.
Content adapted from Republic of Peru on Wikivoyage contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0
Location
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Weather Climate Summary
- Though Peru lies entirely within tropical latitudes, its climate is remarkably diverse thanks to the Andes mountain range, varied topography, and two ocean currents (Humboldt and El Niño). Elevations range from -37°C to 6778°C, and annual precipitation varies from less than 20 mm in desert areas to over 8000 mm in tropical rainforest. The country can be divided into three main climate regions:
- Coastal region: Moderate temperatures, low precipitation, and high humidity, except for the warmer, wetter northern reaches.
- Mountain region (Andes): Rain is frequent in summer; temperature and humidity decrease with altitude, up to the frozen peaks.
- Peruvian Amazon: Heavy rainfall and high temperatures year-round, except for the southernmost part which has colder winters and seasonal rainfall.
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Things to Do
- Trek the Inca Trail or alternative routes like the Salkantay Trail to reach Machu Picchu — book well in advance for the classic 4-day Inca Trail.
- Explore the Amazon from Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado, with opportunities for boat trips, wildlife spotting, and jungle excursions.
- Go wildlife watching in Manú National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting over 1,000 bird species and 220 mammals including jaguars and giant anteaters.
- Hike in the Cordillera Blanca near Huaraz, a paradise for trekkers with glaciers, lakes, and peaks like Huascarán (-30°C).
- Visit the Colca Canyon near Arequipa, one of the world's deepest canyons, and watch Andean condors soar along the cliffs.
- Relax on northern beaches in Piura and Tumbes, where warmer waters and resorts offer a sunny coastal escape.
- Take a boat trip on Lake Titicaca from Puno to explore the floating Uros Islands and ancient communities on the altiplano.
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Things to See
- Machu Picchu — the iconic 15th-century Inca citadel near Cusco, a must-see for any visitor.
- The Nazca Lines — enormous geoglyphs etched into the desert floor, best viewed from a small plane.
- Cusco's historic center — a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Inca walls, colonial churches, and lively plazas.
- The Sacred Valley — including the ruins of Ollantaytambo, Pisac market, and Moray's circular terraces.
- Chan Chan — the ancient Chimú adobe capital near Trujillo, the largest pre-Columbian city in the Americas.
- The archaeological sites of Caral, Sipán, and Kuelap — showcasing pre-Inca civilizations.
- The reed islands of Lake Titicaca (Uros) and the stone tombs of Sillustani near Puno.
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Best Time to Visit
- Dry season (May–September) is generally the best time for trekking in the Andes (Inca Trail, Huaraz, Colca Canyon) and visiting Machu Picchu, with clear skies and minimal rain.
- Coastal summer (December–April) offers warm, sunny weather on northern beaches (Piura, Tumbes) and in Lima, though the highlands experience rain.
- Shoulder months (April–May and September–October) balance pleasant weather with fewer crowds, ideal for the Sacred Valley and Cusco.
- Amazon region is warm and rainy year-round; the drier season (June–November) means easier wildlife spotting and fewer mosquitoes.
- Avoid the rainy season (January–March) for high-altitude treks due to trail closures and landslides, but it can be fine for coastal stays.
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Planning Tips
- Acclimatize gradually — spend at least a day or two in Cusco (3,400 m) before attempting high-altitude treks or visiting Lake Titicaca.
- Book the Inca Trail well in advance — permits sell out months ahead, especially from May to September.
- Carry small bills — many merchants and taxi drivers claim to have no change; break larger notes at banks or supermarkets.
- Use official taxis at airports and bus stations — pre-pay at a desk or use the Airport Express Lima bus rather than hailing random cabs.
- Stay hydrated and protect against sun — UV radiation is strong in the Andes, and dehydration is common at altitude.
- Learn basic Spanish phrases — English is limited outside tourist centers; even simple greetings help navigate markets and transport.
- Avoid coca products when leaving Peru — coca leaves and tea are illegal in most countries; never bring them home to avoid severe penalties.
Content from Wikivoyage contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0