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Peru

Peru

Ancient Empires & Andean Wonders

Ancient Empires & Andean Wonders

Peru is a land of staggering contrasts — from the soaring peaks of the Andes to the depths of the Amazon rainforest, from the ancient stones of Machu Picchu to the colonial grandeur of Cusco. One of the world's great travel destinations, Peru rewards adventurous souls with extraordinary archaeological sites, vibrant indigenous cultures, remarkable biodiversity, and a food scene that has captivated the world.

Quick Facts

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Best Season

May to September (dry season)

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Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

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Language

Spanish (Quechua widely spoken)

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Flight Time from US

8–9 hours from Miami to Lima

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Time Zone

PET (UTC−5)

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Visa

Not required for US citizens (stays up to 90 days)

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Budget/Day

$600–$1,500+ for luxury travel

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Best For

Culture, history, hiking, and gastronomy

Top Experiences

Machu Picchu & Inca Trail

Trek the legendary Inca Trail through cloud forests and mountain passes to arrive at the Sun Gate overlooking the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu at dawn.

Sacred Valley of the Incas

Explore the fertile Urubamba Valley dotted with Inca ruins, traditional markets, and weaving communities nestled between towering Andean peaks.

Cusco Colonial Old Town

Wander the UNESCO-listed streets of Cusco, where Inca stone foundations support Spanish colonial churches in a remarkable layering of civilizations.

Lake Titicaca Floating Islands

Visit the remarkable Uros floating reed islands on the world's highest navigable lake, where indigenous communities have lived for centuries on hand-made totora reed platforms.

Amazon Rainforest Lodge

Venture into the Peruvian Amazon from a remote eco-lodge, spotting exotic wildlife including macaws, caimans, pink river dolphins, and hundreds of bird species.

Lima's World-Class Food Scene

Experience Lima's legendary culinary scene — from ceviche and tiradito at legendary restaurants to street food markets that have made Peru a global gastronomy destination.

Best Time to Visit

Shoulder (Apr & Oct)

Fewer crowds with mostly pleasant weather.

Wet Season (Nov–Mar)

Lush landscapes; Inca Trail closes each February.

Festival Time (June)

Inti Raymi sun festival fills Cusco with color.

A Sample 7-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival in Lima

Settle into a chic Miraflores suite overlooking the Pacific, with a private tasting menu from a celebrated chef.

2

Lima to Cusco

Explore Lima's colonial heart, then fly to the Sacred Valley to acclimatize at a luxury Andean retreat.

3

Sacred Valley

Tour Inca terraces and artisan villages with a private guide, ending with a riverside gourmet lunch.

4

Machu Picchu

Board a luxury train to Machu Picchu for a guided sunrise tour of the citadel before the crowds arrive.

5

Cusco

Discover Cusco's cobbled streets and ancient temples, with an evening in a restored colonial mansion.

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Andean Culture

A private weaving demonstration and llama trek, followed by a Pachamanca feast in the highlands.

7

Departure

A relaxed morning in the Andes before your transfer home.

Travel Tips

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Acclimatize Slowly

Spend your first days in the Sacred Valley, lower than Cusco, to ease altitude.

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Book Machu Picchu Early

Entry and train tickets are timed and sell out months ahead.

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Pack in Layers

Andean days are warm and nights cold, even in dry season.

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Carry Small Cash

Soles in small notes are handy for markets and rural villages.

Ready to Explore Peru?

Let our travel experts craft your perfect Peru itinerary with insider access and curated experiences.

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