12 Day Peru Itinerary : Ultimate Peru travel guide

Are you planning a trip to Peru and looking for the best way to spend 12 days in Peru exploring iconic places like Machu Picchu, Cusco, and Amazon Rainforest?

Peru is a beautiful country on the west coast of South America, filled with stunning landscapes and incredible history. It’s home to the famous Machu Picchu, the lively city of Cusco, and the wild Amazon Rainforest.

Peru had been on my bucket list for a long time, and I was thrilled to finally check it off. It felt amazing wandering through the streets of Cusco, admiring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, cruising through the Amazon rainforest, enjoying the serene beauty of Lake Titicaca, and savoring the flavors of Peruvian cuisine. This country completely exceeded my expectations.

Deciding where to go and what to do is never easy. So, here is my complete Peru travel guide to help you plan your next epic trip to this beautiful country in South America. I have provided everything you need to know about planning a trip to Peru, including a 12-day itinerary, how to get there, where to stay, things to do, and more.

So, keep reading if Peru is on your bucket list and you are looking for best ways to spend 12 – 14 days in Peru.

The ultimate Peru itinerary & guide for first timers

Best time to visit Peru

The best time to visit Peru largely depends on the region you’re exploring and the activities on your bucket list. Peru has three main geographic zones the coast, the highlands (Andes), and the rainforest each with its own climate – Dry Season & Wet season. Generally, May to September is considered the best time to visit, especially for hiking and sightseeing in the Andes and Machu Picchu.

If you’re planning a trip that includes Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca, the Amazon Rainforest, and the coast, the best window is May through early October. This offers ideal hiking conditions in the highlands and good access to all the major destinations.

Traveling in shoulder months like May or September offers a great balance – chances of fewer crowds, better prices, and still good weather across most regions.

How to Get to Peru

Most international travelers arrive in Lima, the capital of Peru and the main entry point for the country. Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima is Peru’s busiest airport where the majority of international flights land.

If you’re planning to explore other parts of Peru, like Cusco (CUZ) for Machu Picchu, Arequipa (AQP), or Juliaca (JUL) near Lake Titicaca — you’ll likely catch a domestic connection from Lima.

I booked a round-trip, non-stop flight from New York City to Lima, Peru with LATAM Airlines. Whenever possible, I prefer flying non-stop to avoid long layovers and unnecessary travel time — but of course, this often depends on budget and available routes.

While researching flights for my recent Costa Rica trip, I discovered something important that’s worth sharing — especially for Indian and African passport holders. If you’re transiting through El Salvador, there’s a hefty transit fee of $1,130, even if you’re only passing through. That’s an unexpected and significant cost!

So, if you’re planning a trip to Peru and considering airlines like Avianca that may route through El Salvador, I highly recommend double-checking their transit policies. To avoid this expensive surprise, try to book flights via other hubs that don’t impose such fees or restrictions.

How to get around in Peru

Getting around Peru is fairly easy with several transportation options available. In major cities like Lima and Cusco, Uber is widely used and often one of the most affordable ways to travel within the city. Local taxis are also readily available, but make sure to choose only the registered ones for safety.

When I landed in Lima, I used my hotel’s shuttle service, which made the transfer to our accommodation super convenient. Alternatively, you can book an Uber or a registered airport taxi—both are reliable and easy to find at the airport.

For traveling between cities, buses are a popular and budget-friendly option. During my trip, I often booked guided tours as well as Peru Rail to move between destinations. In smaller towns or remote areas, it’s a good idea to ask your hotel to help arrange a taxi or transfer service.

Visa requirements for Peru

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Peru. I highly recommend checking the latest Peru visa requirements before planning your trip, as entry policies can vary and are subject to change.

As of 2025, If you have an Indian passport along with a valid visa (with at least 6 months of validity remaining) from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, or any Schengen country, you do not need to apply for a separate Peru visa. In simple terms, having a valid visa from any of these countries allows you to enter Peru visa-free for tourism or business purposes.

Apart from the passport and visa, I would always recommend to carry printed documents of return tickets, and hotel stays. The immigration officer may ask about this at the border control entry.

Currency & Language in Peru

Peru’s official currency is the Peruvian Sol. Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in major cities, hotels, and restaurants. However, if you plan to explore smaller towns, local markets, or more remote areas, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, as many local vendors may not accept cards.

If you’re using a credit card during your trip, I highly recommend using one that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees to avoid extra costs. Be sure to check with your bank or credit card provider before your trip to confirm.

Spanish is the official language of Peru. In most tourist areas, you’ll find that many people speak at least basic English, especially at hotels, tour companies, and popular attractions. That said, it’s always helpful (and appreciated) to learn a few basic Spanish phrases for better communication. I also suggest downloading Google Translate, as it can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations.

Budgeting for Peru

Flights: When it comes to booking international flights, I usually try to keep my budget within $500 round trip per person, especially when flying out of New York City or Newark.

To effectively budget for international flights, it’s best to plan ahead, remain flexible with your travel dates, and utilize flight comparison tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Expedia. One of my favorite ways to save big is by using points and miles. You can sometimes book flights for almost nothing – with just a few dollars in taxes and fees!

For my trip to Peru, I flew non-stop from NYC to Lima with LATAM Airlines. I used my Chase travel points and only paid $71 per person one way — such a steal for direct flight!

If you’re looking to save on flights, I highly recommend signing up for the Thrifty Traveler Premium subscription. It’s a subscription service that helps travelers save money by finding the best flight deals, mistake fares, and award flight availability using points and miles. Instead of spending hours searching for deals, you get personalized flight deals delivered straight to your inbox.

Accommodations: When it comes to accommodations, I typically budget around $100 – $150 per night. Whenever possible, I try to book places that include breakfast, which not only saves a bit of money but also makes mornings easier when you’re eager to start exploring. To get the best value, I always compare prices across different booking platforms and look out for deals – it’s a great way to find comfortable stays that fit my budget.

Food: I usually budget around $100 per day for meals when traveling. One way to save money is by booking a room with a kitchenette, buying some groceries, and cooking your own meals. It’s a great option if you’re on a tighter budget. That said, I’ll be honest – after a long day of exploring, I’m not really in the mood to cook.. unless it’s a quick bowl of Maggi noodles, of course!

Activities and Excursions: In Peru, I did most of my sightseeing through guided tours, which made exploring easier (logistic wise) and more informative. The cost really depends on how many tours you plan to do and whether you choose group tours or private ones. I recommend budgeting based on the kind of experiences you’re interested in – whether that’s hiking, history, nature, or a bit of everything and choosing what fits your style and pace.

12 day Peru itinerary for first timers

Day 1: Arrival in Lima

Lima, the capital of Peru, serves as the main entry point for most international travelers. When flying to Peru, you’ll likely arrive at Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM), the country’s busiest airport and primary hub for international flights.

If you’re planning to spend some time in Lima, I highly suggest staying in Miraflores — it’s one of Lima’s most popular neighborhoods, known for its coastal views, great food, and overall safe, traveler-friendly vibe. It’s a perfect place to relax and start your Peru trip.

But if you’re planning to head straight to your next destination, like Puerto Maldonado, Cusco or Arequipa, it’s more convenient to stay closer to the airport or choose a hotel with an airport shuttle — especially for late-night arrivals or early connections.

My husband and I flew from New York City to Lima, Peru with LATAM Airlines, and had a great experience! I’d definitely recommend LATAM if you’re flying to South America.

After an 8-hour flight, I landed in Lima and quickly made my way through immigration. The process was quick —my passport was checked, stamped, and I was officially in Peru! 

Outside the airport, I met the shuttle driver arranged in advance through my hotel.  With an early morning flight to the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest the next day, staying at an airport hotel was the most convenient choice for me.

This is where I stayed in Lima which provided airport shuttle!

Day 2-3: Peruvian Amazon Rainforest

The next day, I kicked off my Peru trip with an adventure deep in the Amazon Rainforest. The Peruvian Amazon is considered one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. It is covered in lush rainforest, shaped by winding rivers, and filled with countless species of plants, animals, and insects — many of which can only be found here.

Puerto Maldonado is often used as a starting point to explore this part of the jungle. Just getting there felt like a journey in itself. After a short flight from Lima to Puerto Maldonado, I took a boat ride along the river to reach our jungle lodge. As I cruised through the water, surrounded by dense greenery and the sounds of nature, it finally hit me—I was in the Amazon! A place I had only read about in school, now unfolding right in front of my eyes. I was beyond excited and couldn’t wait to see what the rainforest had in store for us.

Before the trip, I spent quite a bit of time researching about the Amazon stays and narrowed it down to three eco-lodges: Posada Amazonas, Refugio Amazonas, and Tres Chimbadas Lake Lodge. I ultimately chose Refugio Amazonas, where I stayed for two nights. While it’s a little more on the expensive side, the experience was absolutely worth it.

Most Amazon lodges are all-inclusive, covering your stay, meals, and daily jungle excursions with expert naturalist guides. That’s why it’s important to choose a lodge that not only provides great services but also offers the kind of activities you’re most excited about.

During my stay, I got to experience the true magic of the Amazon — from spotting colorful macaws at the clay lick to watching spider monkeys swing through the trees, and even glimpsing stealthy caimans near the riverbanks. Oh, and yes — I also saw the infamous bullet ant (don’t worry, I kept my distance 😅). It honestly felt like stepping into a nature documentary — raw, wild, and absolutely unforgettable.

Day 4 : Cusco

After two wild and wonderful days in the Amazon, I flew into Cusco — and wow, what a change of scenery! High up in the Andes Mountains, Cusco is full of history, beautiful buildings, and colorful streets. It used to be the capital of the Inca Empire and still holds on to that ancient charm. With its mix of old stone walls, Spanish-style churches, and cozy cafes, Cusco is one of the most unique cities to visit in Peru.

Sitting at 11,152 feet, this city is truly breathtaking… and yes, I mean that literally too. I knew the altitude could hit hard, so I took it easy on my first day. I sipped on warm coca tea, wandered through the charming old town, and explored the colorful stalls at San Pedro Market. It was the perfect slow start to soak in the city’s vibe without overdoing it. I recommend spending 2 to 3 days in Cusco to properly acclimate before heading out on any other adventures, especially hikes.

At this elevation, altitude sickness is something to be mindful of. Be sure to stay hydrated, drink coca tea (you’ll find it everywhere), and avoid alcohol for a day or two. If you’re worried, talk to your doctor before the trip – they might recommend medication to help you adjust.

If you’re feeling okay and want to explore a bit more, a city tour is a great way to ease into Cusco. You’ll learn about its Incan history, colonial buildings, and local culture without needing to walk too much.

Some spots you can check out while in Cusco:

• Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
• Sacsayhuamán
• Cusco Cathedral
• San Blas Neighborhood
• Twelve-Angled Stone

This is where I stayed in Cusco – clean & budget friendly!

Travel tip: If you’re concerned about altitude sickness, consider starting your Peru trip in Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. Ollantaytambo is at a lower altitude around 9,000 feet, so it’s a good place for your body to get used to the height. In that case, after you arrive in Cusco (by plane or bus), take a taxi or arrange a ride to Ollantaytambo. The drive takes about 2 hours and offers beautiful views. From there, you can explore the Sacred Valley, visit Machu Picchu, and plan to explore Cusco later in your trip, once you’re used to the altitude.

Day 5 : Sacred Valley

This day was all about exploring the Sacred Valley — an introduction to Incan history and the stunning Peruvian countryside. Stretching between Cusco and Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley is packed with ancient ruins, traditional villages, and dramatic Andean landscapes.

You can easily book a tour from Cusco to explore all the key spots in the Sacred Valley. Most tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco, making it super convenient for travelers. I booked 2 day small group tour that covered both the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Here are the highlights from the day:

• Pisac Ruins & Market – Wander through impressive hilltop ruins and shop for handmade goods at the colorful local market.
• Moray Agricultural Terraces – Admire these fascinating circular terraces once used by the Incas for agricultural experiments.
• Maras Salt Mines – A surreal sight of thousands of salt pools cascading down the mountainside, still harvested by local families today.
• Ollantaytambo Fortress – An incredible Incan site with massive terraces, sacred temples, and panoramic views.

After the tour, we boarded the Vistadome train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the charming town at the base of Machu Picchu and spent the night in Aguas Calientes so I could start early the next morning and make the most of my visit to Machu Picchu.

This is where to stay in Aguas Calientes – near to all the amenities!

Day 6: Machu Picchu

It was finally the day I had been waiting for — the day we got to visit the place I planned this entire trip around: Machu Picchu.

Visiting Machu Picchu had been on my bucket list for years. This world-famous site sits high in the Andes Mountains, surrounded by dramatic green peaks and misty clouds. Built by the Incas in the 15th century and later “lost” to the outside world for centuries, Machu Picchu is now one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring places you can visit in Peru and worldwide.

Since I was staying in Aguas Calientes, I caught an early morning bus for the 25-minute ride up to the entrance of the ruins. As I walked into Machu Picchu, I was completely blown away by its sheer size and the sense of mystery that surrounded it.

With the guide, I explored famous spots like the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, the Room of the Three Windows, and the Guardhouse, where you get that classic postcard view. You should book the ticket for Circuit 1 or 2, which has some of the best views of Machu Picchu. After exploring the beautiful Machu Picchu, we got down to Aguas Calientes via bus and headed back to Cusco by Vistadome train later in the evening.

Another popular way to visit Machu Picchu is by hiking. The famous Inca Trail is the most well-known option, but the Salkantay Trek is a great alternative if you’re looking for something a bit easy to get permits. I didn’t do a hike myself—instead, I took the scenic route by train with Peru Rail, followed by a bus from Aguas Calientes that takes you up to the entrance of this iconic site.

I booked a 2-day small group tour that covered both the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, including transfers and the train ride. It was on the pricier side, but I got a more personal experience and smooth logistics.

If you’re traveling on a budget, this is the alternative I would suggest – You can book a Sacred Valley day tour from Cusco (for Day 5), and ask your guide to drop you off in Ollantaytambo at the end of the tour. From there, you can either take the train to Aguas Calientes that same evening, or stay overnight in Ollantaytambo and catch the train early the next morning.

On Day 6, take the bus from Aguas Calientes up to Machu Picchu and explore at your own pace. If you’d like a deeper understanding of the site, you can join a group guided tour once you’re there. Just make sure to book your Machu Picchu entry ticket (timed entry) in advance, as spots do fill up quickly — especially during high season!

If you’re planning to visit, here are a few quick tips:

• Book your Machu Picchu entrance, train, and bus tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
• When choosing your entrance ticket, Circuit 1 or 2 are the best if you want to see the main highlights.
• Go early in the morning for fewer crowds and a chance to see the ruins wrapped in fog.
• Don’t forget to bring your passport (you can even get it stamped!), plus sunscreen, water, and layers — the weather changes fast up there.

Day 7 : Rainbow Mountain (Day Trip from Cusco)

After exploring the majestic Machu Picchu, it was time to switch gears and take on one of Peru’s most iconic hikes — Rainbow Mountain. On Day 7, I booked a guided day tour from Cusco for a short but challenging trek to this colorful natural wonder.

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) is one of Peru’s most Instagram – famous spots and for good reason. Its vibrant stripes, created by mineral deposits, look almost too surreal to be real. But don’t be only attracted by the beautiful photos on Instagram , this is also one of the most challenging excursions due to the high altitude.

The hike is about 5.5 km (3.4 miles) each way, and usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours to ascend, depending on your pace. You’ll gain over 1,000 feet in elevation, reaching a breathtaking 17,060 feet (5,200 meters) at the summit. The air is thin, so even short distances feel intense. Go slow, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.

If you’re not used to hiking at higher elevations, I totally get it. I felt the same! That’s why I chose to rent a bike with a driver from the base, and I highly recommend it. It saved my energy and made the journey so much more enjoyable. You’ll also come across locals offering horse rides up and down, which is another option.

Once I reached the top, I took our time soaking in the views, taking tons of photos (yes, with llamas too!), and just standing in awe of the surreal landscape. It was a little crowded, but the views were absolutely worth it.

On the way back down, I decided to hike, thinking it would be easier—and well, spoiler alert: it wasn’t. Even the descent felt challenging because of the altitude, and I actually started feeling a bit sick. I’m so grateful our guide was there to help me recover.

If you’re not fully acclimatized, I definitely recommend renting a bike for both the uphill and downhill journey. Trust me, your body will thank you later!

Day 8: Humantay lake Hike (Day Trip from Cusco)

Another day, another hike and this one takes you to one of the most stunning glacial lakes in Peru: Humantay Lake!

Tucked beneath the majestic Humantay Mountain, this bright turquoise lake is fed by glacial meltwater and surrounded by snow-capped peaks. It honestly feels like something out of a dream and it’s super photogenic too!

You can visit Humantay Lake on a day trip from Cusco. The day starts early, with a pickup around 4:30 AM. After a scenic 3-hour drive through the breathtaking Andean highlands, you’ll arrive at the village of Soraypampa, sitting at about 12,700 feet (3,880 meters).

From there, the hike begins. It’s roughly 6.5 km (4 miles) round-trip and usually takes 4 to 5 hours, depending on your pace. The trail is steep, and the high altitude definitely adds a challenge — but trust me, the incredible views of both Salkantay and Humantay mountains make every step worth it.

Once you reach the lake at 13,780 feet (4,200 meters), take your time to catch your breath, snap plenty of photos, and soak in the peaceful, otherworldly beauty around you.

If you’re not fully acclimatized or feel nauseous due to altitude, you can hire horses to help you out.

Day 9 – 10: Lake Titicaca & Uros Islands

After an unforgettable few days in the ancient city of Cusco, it was time to say goodbye. But the adventure wasn’t over yet, my husband and I boarded the scenic PeruRail Titicaca train to Puno.

The train ride was incredibly cozy and offered panoramic views of the Peruvian countryside. We were served a delicious lunch and evening snacks on board, and the elegant ambiance made the journey feel like a luxurious escape. If you’ve never taken a luxury train before, this is the one I’d absolutely recommend. It’s more than transportation, it’s an experience.

Once I reached Puno, I continued straight to one of the most unique stays of our trip: a homestay on the Uros Floating Islands. These incredible islands are handmade entirely from totora reeds and have floated peacefully on Lake Titicaca for generations.

My husband and I were picked up by a taxi driver arranged by our host, who dropped us off at the lakeside. From there, our host met us with a speedboat and took us across the shimmering waters of Lake Titicaca at night. We were warmly welcomed by our host family and settled into a cozy reed hut. That evening, we shared a homemade dinner prepared by our hosts, surrounded by the peaceful stillness of the lake.

The next morning, our host gave us a personal tour of the Uros Islands. I watched in awe as they demonstrated how the islands are built and maintained, and I visited neighboring communities to learn about their culture, traditions, and daily lives. It was humbling, beautiful, and so unlike anything I had ever experienced.

Later in the afternoon, after a short drive to the Juliaca Airport I boarded the flight back to Lima.

This is where I stayed in Uros Islands with all inclusive – unique experience but don’t expect too much as it is in a remote island.

Day 11 : Day Trip from Lima

For one final dose of adventure before leaving Peru, I set off on a thrilling day trip from Lima to Paracas and Huacachina — two of the country’s most beautiful destinations, where the ocean meets the desert.

I started with an early morning drive to Paracas (about 3.5 hours from Lima). From the pier, I took a speedboat tour to the Ballestas Islands, often called the “Poor Man’s Galapagos.” The islands are teeming with wildlife. I spotted sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and thousands of seabirds. Along the way, I also caught a glimpse of the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph, a massive symbol etched into the desert hillside, its origin still a mystery.

From Paracas, we headed for to our next stop of the tour. Huacachina is a small desert oasis town hidden in the vast Peruvian coastal desert. It’s surrounded by huge sand dunes and has a peaceful lagoon in the middle. Many travelers come here to relax or try fun desert adventures. With just a few streets, small hotels, and some lively cafes, Huacachina feels completely different from the mountains and jungle in other parts of Peru.

As soon as, our bus reached Huacachina, I went directly for a dune buggy ride, and it was so much fun! The driver took us up and down the steep dunes — it felt just like a rollercoaster in the middle of the desert. Then we stopped for sandboarding, and wow — I went down some of the tallest dunes I’ve ever seen. I had tried sandboarding before, but this was something else. Sliding from the top to the bottom was so exciting it literally took my breath away!

After all the fun, we stopped in the middle of the desert to watch the sunset. The sky turned beautiful shades of orange and pink. It was the perfect way to end an adventure-filled day before heading back to Lima.

This is where I stay in Miraflores in Lima before heading back home!

Day 12: Explore Lima and Fly back home

With hearts full of memories and cameras filled with photos, I boarded the morning flight and began my journey back home. Grateful for every moment and experience that made this trip truly unforgettable.

Every place I visited had something unique to offer, and each day was filled with adventure and learning. This trip gave me memories I’ll always treasure. With full hearts and big smiles, I headed home grateful for everything I saw, felt, and discovered along the way.

From the Andes to the Amazon, here’s what to pack for Peru – Everything you need!

Altitude sickness in Peru’s Andes Mountains

Altitude sickness is very real and you’ll likely start feeling it as soon as you land in Cusco, one of Peru’s most iconic high-altitude destinations. This condition can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level, once you ascend above 8,000 feet (2,500 meters).

Many of Peru’s must-visit spots like Cusco, Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, and even Lake Titicaca sit well above 10,000 feet, so it’s important to prepare ahead of time to make the most of your adventure.

Here’s how to stay healthy and enjoy your trip without altitude-related setbacks :

1. Drink plenty of water before and during your stay at high altitudes. Dehydration increases the risk of altitude sickness, so carry a reusable water bottle and sip throughout the day. Avoid excessive caffeine, which can dehydrate you.
2. Locals have used coca tea (mate de coca) for centuries to help ease altitude symptoms like headaches, nausea, and fatigue. You’ll find it served in most hotels in Cusco and around the Andes. You can also chew coca leaves, which are widely available in markets and pharmacies.
3. Avoid strenuous activity on your first day in Cusco or any high-altitude location. Take it slow, walk gently, and allow your body time to acclimatize for 24–48 hours before engaging in hikes or excursions.
4. Agua de Florida is a popular herbal cologne often used in South America—especially in Peru and Bolivia—as a home remedy for altitude sickness. Locals believe that inhaling its strong, refreshing scent can ease headaches and breathing discomfort at high elevations. While not scientifically proven, it’s a widely trusted tradition in the Andes.
5. Talk to your doctor before your trip about taking Diamox (acetazolamide), a prescription medication that can prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness. Start the medication a day before ascent if recommended.

Many hotels in Cusco and the Sacred Valley offer oxygen tanks or oxygen-enriched rooms. Don’t hesitate to ask, especially if you feel uneasy your on first night.

Must-Try foods in Peru

One of the best parts of visiting Peru is enjoying its amazing food. Peruvian cuisine is full of flavors, variety, and history. From the streets of Cusco to the fine dining restaurants in Lima (known as the food capital of South America), you’ll find something delicious everywhere you go.

Ceviche
This is Peru’s most famous dish — and a must-try! Ceviche is made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with red onions, cilantro, and a little chili for spice. It’s usually served with sweet potato and crunchy toasted corn. You’ll find ceviche on almost every good restaurant menu in Peru.

Ají de Gallina
Ají de Gallina is a creamy chicken stew made with shredded chicken, yellow chili (ají amarillo), cheese, milk, and crushed crackers. It’s served with rice, boiled potatoes, and a boiled egg. The taste is rich and comforting — very different from any regular chicken and rice dish.

Cuy (Guinea Pig)
Cuy is a traditional Andean dish that has been eaten since Inca times. It’s usually roasted or fried and served whole with potatoes and salad. I didn’t try it myself, but it’s popular with locals and curious travelers. If you try it, let me know what you think!

Chicha Morada
This is a sweet and refreshing drink made from purple corn, cinnamon, cloves, pineapple, and lime. It’s non-alcoholic and perfect for staying cool while exploring. Must try!

Pisco Sour
Last but definitely not least — you can’t leave Peru without trying a Pisco Sour. This classic cocktail is made with pisco(a grape-based brandy), lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and a dash of Angostura bitters. It’s tangy, frothy, and smooth! The best way to enjoy one? Take a Pisco Sour-making class and learn how to mix your own.

FAQ

Is Peru safe to visit?

Yes, especially in the places I visited, I didn’t face any issues. The only advice I received from locals was to avoid eating street food.

How many days are enough for Peru?

If you’re planning to explore all that Peru has to offer, I’d recommend spending at least three weeks. However, 10 to 14 days are perfect for seeing the highlights, including Lima, Amazon Rainforest, Cusco, and Machu Picchu (no hike version). If you’re short on time and only focusing on Cusco and Machu Picchu, 5 to 7 days would be enough to explore at a slower pace.

Final Thoughts

What I loved most about Peru was how different each place felt. The mountains, the jungle, the cities – all had their own charm and stories. One day, I was deep in the Amazon Rainforest, surrounded by the sounds of nature and thick greenery, and the next, I was high up in the Andes, soaking in the breathtaking views and colorful landscapes. Every region told a different story – through its people, landscape, and traditions.

This trip pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best ways – adjusting to high altitudes, trying new foods (still thinking about that ceviche!), and embracing the unpredictable joys of travel. It was humbling and inspiring all at once.

If you’re planning your first trip to South America, I can’t recommend Peru enough. You should plan your trip right away!

Hope this blog helps you plan your next visit to the beautiful country of Peru. Let me know in the comments if have any questions. Happy to answer! or if you find my blog useful. Happy to know!

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