Peru map & highlights
As well as frequent internal flights, Peru has an excellent bus network, and its trains can be one of the most impressive ways of cruising through the Andes. In the Amazon, of course, the only way around is by boat. Don't spread yourself too thinly; traveling is even more exhausting at altitude, and it's better to allow extra time in your Peru itinerary to enjoy the surrounding villages and markets rather than just ticking off big sights such as Machu Picchu, Colca Canyon or the floating islands.
Peru is well placed for onward travel as Lima is a regional flight hub, so you can continue to Ecuador and the Galapagos. Alternatively, cross the border into Bolivia at Lake Titicaca. See more of our top Peru highlights in our interactive map, below.
Our Peru Vacations
Hiking the Inca trail vacation
An unrivalled combination of history and spectacular scenery
From
US $1799 to US $2099
9 days
ex flights
Family vacation to Peru, Machu Picchu & the Amazon
Experience Peru's top sights as a family
From
£3430
19 days
ex flights
Peru walking and cultural vacation
Trek the cultural sites and mountain scenery of Peru
From
US $2300
10 days
ex flights
Peru highlights tour, Inca trail, Titicaca and Nazca
Taste Peru's diverse landscapes and fascinating culture
From
US $3079 to US $3499
15 days
ex flights
Southern Peru small group tour
Journey through south Peru, the heartland of the Inca Empire
From
£3131
14 days
ex flights
Peru tour, off the beaten track
An cultural small group tour to the Northern region of Peru.
From
£2885 to £3035
14 days
ex flights
Inca Trail adventure vacation
Discover Cuzco and the Sacred Valley on this Incan adventure
From
US $1126 to US $1455
7 days
ex flights
Adventure vacation in Peru, off the beaten track
Nature and culture from Peru's coast to the Andes and Amazon
From
US $2000 to US $2500
10 days
ex flights
Luxury Peru adventure vacation
Luxury Adventure travel in stunning Peru.
From
£4798
11 days
ex flights
Machu Picchu & Amazon small group vacation, Peru
Explore Peru from Machu Picchu the Amazon rainforest
From
US $2320 to US $2899
12 days
ex flights
Highlights of Peru vacation
Join a cultural exploration of Peru
From
US $3360 to US $4199
21 days
ex flights
Peru homestay and coffee tour, Kuelap
Ancient culture, amazing nature and delicious coffee
From
US $900 to US $1280
6 days
ex flights
Peru, Bolivia and Chile vacation
Action-packed short tour of Peru, Bolivia and Chile
From
US $2408 to US $3639
15 days
ex flights
Peru trekking tour, tailor made
Exhilarating Walking Experience in Peru's legendary sights
From
£1895
7 days
ex flights
Lima and Cusco vacation in Peru, local experience
Authentic intercultural experience in Lima and Cusco
From
US $1800 to US $1950
10 days
ex flights
Classic Inca Trail vacation, 10 days
10-days: Lima, Cusco, 4-day Inca Trail & Machu Picchu
From
£1695
10 days
ex flights
Alternative Inca trail trek in Peru, Salkantay Trek
Salkantay trek - an alternative Inca Trail adventure
From
US $840
5 days
ex flights
Peru family adventure vacation
Peru Family Adventure activity vacation
From
US $2608
8 days
ex flights
Amazon eco lodge budget tour, Peru
Authentic local and ecological experience in the Amazon
From
US $300 to US $350
3 days
ex flights
Inca trail & Amazon Rainforest vacation
Inca Trail, Machu Picchu & rainforest
From
US $3579 to US $4199
15 days
ex flights
Peru small group tour, a food adventure
Peru is an exciting region to go on a foodie adventure.
From
US $2585 to US $2715
10 days
ex flights
South America highlights vacation
Discover the highlights of South America!
From
£4530
21 days
ex flights
Inca trail experience, 10 days
Experience the cultural wonder that is Peru in just 10 days
From
US $2555
10 days
ex flights
Peru vacation, culture of the Northern Andes
Explore the magical landscape of Peru on this group tour
From
£2421
14 days
ex flights
Amazon rainforest conservation vacation in Peru
Short for time come and volunteer for a week in Manu Peru!
From
US $1280
7 days
ex flights
South America vacation, small group tour
Epic Journey across South America from Atlantic to Pacific
From
£4498
21 days
ex flights
Galapagos, Bolivia and Peru tour
Galapagos Islands, Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia adventure
From
US $6595 to US $7670
24 days
ex flights
Small group overland vacation, Lima to La Paz
Discover the Andean landscapes and culture in Peru & Bolivia
From
US $2160 to US $2899
21 days
ex flights
Complete Peru vacation, Pacific to the Andes
Personalised journey visiting the entire south of Peru.
From
£2595
19 days
ex flights
1. Aguas Calientes
2. Arequipa
3. Ballestas Islands
4. Colca Canyon
5. Cuzco
6. Inca Trail
7. Iquitos
8. Lake Titicaca
9. Lima
10. Machu Picchu
11. Manú National Park
12. Nazca Lines
13. Paracas National Reserve
14. Puerto Maldonado
15. Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
16. Tambopata Reserve
2. Arequipa
3. Ballestas Islands
4. Colca Canyon
5. Cuzco
6. Inca Trail
7. Iquitos
8. Lake Titicaca
9. Lima
10. Machu Picchu
11. Manú National Park
12. Nazca Lines
13. Paracas National Reserve
14. Puerto Maldonado
15. Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
16. Tambopata Reserve
Aguas Calientes
1. Aguas Calientes
Also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, the town's proximity to Peru's main draw has turned it into a fully fledged tourist hub. Attractions include a botanical garden; Putucusi Peak - which has incredible views of Machu Picchu; and Quechua handcraft markets. Be sure to book your hotel in advance; with 1,500 visitors a day, this little pueblo fills up fast.
Arequipa
2. Arequipa
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a worthy challenger to Cuzco's architectural crown, but without the crowds. Overlooked by a snow capped, conical volcano and built largely of pearl-coloured volcanic stone, Arequipa is absolutely beautiful, and its historic center has Inca, colonial and 19th century influences. Modern Arequipa is also a lot of fun for nightlife and dining.
Ballestas Islands
3. Ballestas Islands
Usually included as an optional excursion from Paracas, these rock formations are marine sanctuaries for blue-footed boobies, sea lions and even Humboldt penguins. They are certainly not the 'poor man's Galapagos', as they are sometimes called, but they are an unusual addition to the well-trodden Peru tours.
Colca Canyon
4. Colca Canyon
Plunging over 4km into an Andean valley, Colca is one of the world's deepest canyons. Its also one of Peru's most popular tourists attractions thanks to its famous residents - the enormous condors, usually viewed riding the thermals from the Cruz del Condor platform. Do more than a daytrip: trek the remote canyon base, or stay with the Quechua locals in nearby Cabanaconde.
Cuzco
5. Cuzco
Cuzco was the capital of the Inca Empire, but for modern tourists, it may as well be the capital of Peru. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, sitting at a cool 3,400m, is the gateway to the Inca Trail, colourful Quechua culture and snow-sprinkled peaks. The colonial architecture of this cobblestoned city is beautifully preserved, and it's a great place to adjust to the altitude before setting off to explore the riches of the Andes.
Inca Trail
6. Inca Trail
This high-altitude hike takes brave trekkers through extraordinary Andean scenery, with mountain passes, Quechua villages, Alpine tundra and humid cloud forests. There are several routes to choose from; the 43km classic route is usually completed in four or five days. Most of the trail follows original Incan stone paths, and leads to the Sun Gate - the most dramatic entry point to Machu Picchu.
Iquitos
7. Iquitos
Iquitos embodies the idea of the 'urban jungle' - a city of 422,000 people with no access by road, its sweltering streets buzz with motorbikes and scooters. So you have to fly in, before embarking on a boat into the deep Amazon, cruising past dugout canoes and the floating homes and market of Belén, and into indigenous territory and thick, wildlife-rich jungle.
Lake Titicaca
8. Lake Titicaca
At 3,800m, Puno is the gateway to the immense Lake Titicaca. The dust-coloured buildings fading into the surrounding mountains contrast with the colourful, traditional dress of local residents. There are llama farms, artisan markets and scenic viewpoints. Take a daytrip or overnight tour to the peaceful Aymara-inhabited islands of Amantani and Taquile, or to the famous floating Uros Islands, made of reeds.
Lima
9. Lima
Too often written off by visitors as dangerous and unattractively modern, Lima is a vast city of 8.5 million people, and there's plenty to discover if you stay long enough to scratch the surface. Founded in 1535, the Centro Historico still boasts some gorgeous pre-Hispanic and colonial architecture. Lima, with 220,000 restaurants and cafes, is also the best place to sample Peru's diverse cuisines and its lively nightlife.
Machu Picchu
10. Machu Picchu
Rediscovered a century ago, the 'Lost City of the Incas' has not lost its ability to astonish, thanks to its phenomenal position atop a mountain peak, with panoramic Andean views. Whether you complete the gruelling four-day hike or hop on the luxury train, Machu Picchu will literally be a high point of your Peru vacation. Just remember that it's a lot more crowded than the carefully framed photos lead you to believe.
Manú National Park
11. Manú National Park
Manú's inaccessibility has no doubt been responsible for its pristine state, and its status as one of the planet's most biodiverse parks. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve protects land stretching from the dense Amazon rainforest up to the high Andes, and pumas, sloths, tapirs, howler monkeys and spectacled bears are among the 222 species of mammals found within its forests. It is also home to the Machiguenga tribe.
Nazca Lines
12. Nazca Lines
One of the world's most famous unexplained mysteries, the Nazca Lines are thought to have been created almost 1,000 years before the Inca walked this high plateau. As well as the vast geometric shapes - measuring over 200 metres across - there are over 70 animal, birds and human designs, though all explanations to their meaning are mere speculation, especially given the difficulty of viewing them.
Paracas National Reserve
13. Paracas National Reserve
This reserve protects two vastly distinct ecosystems: the arid coastal desert and the wildlife-rich ocean, as well as the rocky Ballestas Islands. There are tiny fishing villages where you might be treated to the catch of the day, clifftop miradors, fur seal colonies, coral-coloured flamingos and wild beaches. There is also a family-friendly visitors' center with ecology exhibits.
Puerto Maldonado
14. Puerto Maldonado
Landing in this chaotic little jungle town straight from the elegance of the highlands will come as a shock. Aside from stifling heat and humidity, the scruffy streets are buzzing with three-wheeled mototaxis, mud and mosquitos, and it's a sweltering, sensory overload. It's also the gateway to the most easily accessible regions of the Peruvian Amazon. Climb up the 8-storey 'Obelisk' for panoramic jungle views.
Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
15. Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
After Cuzco fell to the Spanish, the native Inca fled to the nearby Sacred Valley. The little town of Ollantaytambo sits in the picturesque surroundings of the valley, and it has some impressive Inca ruins - including a temple, working fountains, stone operating table and underground water systems. There are lovely hikes of varying difficulty, wonderful views and a brilliant community weaving cooperative.
Tambopata Reserve
16. Tambopata Reserve
This biodiversity hotspot has an abundance of lodges, though those who want to discover the culture of the rainforest should try out a homestay, or travel with an indigenous Ese Ejja guide. Highlights include clay licks which attract flocks of primary-coloured macaws; and the endangered giant otter. But with 632 species of birds and 169 mammals, you're bound to discover your own favourite species.
Our top Peru Vacation
Hiking the Inca trail vacation
An unrivalled combination of history and spectacular scenery
From
US $1799 to US $2099
9 days
ex flights
Small group travel:
2019: 20 Jun, 4 Jul, 10 Jul, 18 Jul, 1 Aug, 10 Aug, 22 Aug, 4 Sep, 7 Sep, 12 Sep, 18 Sep, 2 Oct, 10 Oct, 16 Oct, 23 Oct, 30 Oct, 6 Nov, 13 Nov, 4 Dec, 18 Dec
2020: 25 Mar, 8 Apr, 29 Apr, 7 May, 13 May, 4 Jun, 2 Jul, 16 Jul, 30 Jul, 5 Aug, 20 Aug, 2 Sep, 10 Sep, 16 Sep, 24 Sep, 30 Sep, 8 Oct, 14 Oct, 21 Oct, 28 Oct, 4 Nov, 11 Nov, 2 Dec, 17 Dec
2019: 20 Jun, 4 Jul, 10 Jul, 18 Jul, 1 Aug, 10 Aug, 22 Aug, 4 Sep, 7 Sep, 12 Sep, 18 Sep, 2 Oct, 10 Oct, 16 Oct, 23 Oct, 30 Oct, 6 Nov, 13 Nov, 4 Dec, 18 Dec
2020: 25 Mar, 8 Apr, 29 Apr, 7 May, 13 May, 4 Jun, 2 Jul, 16 Jul, 30 Jul, 5 Aug, 20 Aug, 2 Sep, 10 Sep, 16 Sep, 24 Sep, 30 Sep, 8 Oct, 14 Oct, 21 Oct, 28 Oct, 4 Nov, 11 Nov, 2 Dec, 17 Dec
Travel Team
If you'd like to chat about Peru or need help finding a vacation to suit you we're very happy to help.
Peru itineraries
Peru highlights: 21 days
Lima > Paracas > Nazca > Arequipa > Colca Canyon > Puno, Lake Titicaca & islands > Cuzco > Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo
> Inca Trail & Machu Picchu > Puerto > Maldonado > Lima
Inca walking tour: 15 days
Lima > Puno > Lake Titicaca > Islands > Cuzco > Inca Trail > Machu Picchu > Nazca > Paracas > Ballestas Islands
Inca & Amazon: 10 days
Cuzco > Sacred Valley/Ollanatytambo > Inca Trail > Machu Picchu > Aguas Calientes > Puerto Maldonado > Tambopata Reserve > Cuzco
Peru travel times
The following times give you a rough idea of the driving, train and flight times between the main Peru highlights.
More about Peru
From Cuzco and the Andes, to the Amazon and the coast, Peru has one of the most varied climates on earth. We help you choose the best time to go to Peru...
Our Peru travel guide is here to help you travel like a local, including a handy section on food, shopping and culture, plus what we rate and what we don't...
If you're hoping to rediscover Machu Picchu, explore the Amazon or get off the beaten track then read on for our top things to do in Peru...
Our guide to Machu Picchu reveals the history of this sacred site, with tips on what to see, how to travel there and the best time to visit...
Peru's Inca Trail is one of the highlights of a South America vacation. Discover the history of the trail, the best time to go and a sample itinerary...
There are several alternative Inca trails that lead to Machu Picchu, taking in cloud and rainforest, high passes and indigenous villages...
We explain why, when you cross the border at Lake Titicaca and see Bolivia and Peru together, you gain more than just an extra stamp in your passport...
Community homestays, brightly woven handicrafts and spectacular island hikes are Lake Titicaca’s calling cards.
The Nazca Lines in Peru remain one of the country’s great mysteries. Find out about the lines’ history, and how to view them from land and from the air...
Traveling in Peru with kids is a fabulous idea. Machu Picchu will delight children as much as parents, while long-lashed llamas are sure to enchant...
Our Peru travel tips page is packed to the rafters with sound, practical advice from our South America experts as well as our independent traveler reviews...
Porters' rights are one of the most important Peru responsible tourism issues. We also share information on volunteering, homestays and the environment...
Find all of our Peru guides in one place, for particular places in Peru such as Machu Picchu. Or perhaps you would like to know more about the different types of Peru vacations we offer such as culture or trekking the Inca Trail.
protection
Photo credits: [Page banner: McKay Savage] [Top box: Kevin Matteson]
[Aguas Calientes: catderby]
[Ballestas Islands: Esmée Winnubst]
[Colca Canyon: Madeleine Deaton]
[Cuzco: Kenneth Moore]
[Inca Trail: karlnorling]
[Iquitos: rdoroshenko]
[Lake Titicaca: Esmée Winnubst]
[Lima: Marie Thérèse Hébert & Jean Robert Thibault]
[Machu Picchu: Babak Fakhamzadeh]
[Manú National Park: Jason Rothmeyer]
[Nazca Lines: Diego Delso ]
[Paracas National Reserve: Kirk39]
[Puerto Maldonado: Hakan Svensson (Xauxa)]
[Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo: Kenneth Moore]
[Tambopata Reserve: Brian Ralphs]
[Peru itineraries: Jessica Knowlden]
[Peru travel times: Dimitry B.]
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