Peru is one of South America’s most distinctive travel destinations, combining ancient civilisations, dramatic geography and strong living culture. From Andean cities and archaeological sites to rainforests and coastline, the country offers remarkable variety. When researching things to do in Peru, the challenge is understanding how altitude, distance and region affect travel pace and comfort.
This guide focuses on the most rewarding things to do in Peru for travellers who want a well structured itinerary. It brings together cultural highlights, natural landscapes, food and everyday life with realistic planning advice to help you experience Peru in a way that feels immersive rather than exhausting.
Peru’s cultural heritage is central to its appeal and remains deeply connected to daily life. Ancient civilisations, most notably the Inca, have left behind remarkable sites that continue to shape national identity.
Cusco is the most important cultural base for many travellers. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, it combines historic streets, colonial architecture and nearby archaeological sites. Exploring Cusco slowly helps visitors adjust to altitude while gaining insight into history and traditions. The Sacred Valley, located nearby, offers additional Inca sites, rural communities and agricultural landscapes that add depth to cultural exploration.
Machu Picchu is Peru’s most iconic landmark. Visiting requires advance planning due to ticket limits and access regulations. Many travellers combine Machu Picchu with time in the Sacred Valley to reduce travel stress and allow proper acclimatisation. Guided visits help explain historical context and symbolism.
Beyond the Cusco region, Peru offers further cultural highlights. Cities such as Arequipa showcase colonial architecture, while lesser visited archaeological sites across the country provide insight into pre Inca civilisations. Cultural experiences are most meaningful when balanced with time to rest and reflect rather than rushing between sites.
Peru’s landscapes are among the most diverse in South America. Mountains, deserts, rainforests and coastline all exist within the same country, offering a wide range of scenic experiences.
The Andes dominate much of the interior and provide opportunities for walking, scenic travel and rural exploration. Day walks and multi day treks vary in difficulty and should be chosen based on fitness, altitude tolerance and time available. Even without trekking, travellers can enjoy mountain scenery through road journeys and train routes.
The Amazon region offers a very different environment. Visiting the rainforest provides insight into biodiversity, wildlife and river based life. Experiences usually involve guided activities from eco lodges, including walks, boat trips and wildlife observation. Travel here requires additional time and careful planning due to remoteness.
Peru’s coastal regions add further contrast. Areas near Lima combine ocean views, desert landscapes and food culture. Coastal travel works well as a transition between high altitude regions and international flights, allowing travellers to end trips at a lower elevation.
Choosing landscapes based on travel goals and physical comfort helps create a balanced itinerary.
Food is an important part of understanding Peru, reflecting regional ingredients and cultural influences. Peruvian cuisine has gained international recognition, but local food experiences remain accessible and varied.
Lima is considered the country’s culinary centre, offering a wide range of dining options from traditional eateries to contemporary interpretations of regional dishes. Seafood plays a major role along the coast, while Andean regions focus on hearty ingredients such as potatoes, grains and slow cooked meats.
Markets are excellent places to experience everyday food culture. They provide insight into local produce, seasonal ingredients and daily routines. Guided food tours help travellers navigate unfamiliar dishes and understand cultural context.
Local life experiences extend beyond food. Walking through neighbourhoods, visiting small towns and spending time in public spaces allows travellers to observe daily rhythms. Engaging with artisans, markets and local guides often leads to more personal and memorable experiences than major attractions alone.
Taking time to slow down and observe everyday life helps balance the intensity of sightseeing and travel.
With 10 to 14 days in Peru, focus and pacing are essential. Altitude, travel distances and transport times all influence how much can be realistically achieved.
Many travellers begin in Lima before travelling to Cusco and the Sacred Valley. This route allows cultural immersion while providing time for acclimatisation. Adding one additional region, such as Lake Titicaca or a short Amazon stay, can add contrast if time allows.
Domestic flights help reduce long travel times, while trains provide scenic access to certain regions. Road travel in mountainous areas can be slow, so itineraries should include buffer time and rest days.
Limiting the number of destinations helps prevent fatigue and altitude related issues. Allowing at least two or three nights in each location improves comfort and enjoyment.
Peru rewards careful planning. Altitude, climate and distance all affect how travellers experience the country. Deciding early whether your priorities are culture, scenery, food or a mix helps shape a realistic route.
Understanding acclimatisation needs, seasonal weather patterns and travel logistics improves comfort and safety. A well planned itinerary balances highlights with downtime and avoids unnecessary strain.
If you would like expert help designing a Peru itinerary that fits your interests, timeframe and budget, our travel specialists can help you plan a journey that feels seamless and rewarding.
Start planning your Peru trip by contacting our team today.
For a first visit to Peru, most travellers focus on cultural and historic highlights combined with scenic landscapes. Visiting Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu provides insight into Inca history and Andean culture. Adding time in Lima introduces food culture and coastal life, while a short visit to Lake Titicaca or the Amazon can add contrast. First time visitors should avoid overloading itineraries due to altitude and travel times. Focusing on a small number of regions allows better acclimatisation and a more relaxed, immersive experience.
Most travellers need at least 10 to 14 days to experience Peru comfortably. This timeframe allows time for altitude adjustment, cultural exploration and travel between regions. Shorter trips are possible but often limit visitors to one region, usually Cusco and nearby sites. Longer trips allow inclusion of the Amazon or additional Andean regions. Planning fewer destinations with longer stays helps reduce fatigue and improves overall enjoyment, especially at higher elevations.
The best time to visit Peru depends on region and activities. The dry season, generally from May to September, is popular for Andean travel and walking, though it is also the busiest period. The wet season brings more rain, particularly in mountainous areas, but landscapes are greener and crowds are smaller. Coastal regions experience less variation. Choosing travel dates based on priorities such as walking, photography or comfort helps shape the best itinerary.
Peru can be suitable for family travel with careful planning. Choosing family friendly accommodation, limiting altitude exposure and allowing rest days helps ensure comfort. Cultural sites, markets and scenic regions can be engaging for children when paced appropriately. Private transport and guides simplify logistics and provide educational context. Avoiding strenuous activities and planning gradual altitude changes improves the experience for families travelling with children.
While Peru can be travelled independently, many visitors benefit from local guides, particularly at archaeological sites and in remote regions. Guides provide historical context, help manage logistics and improve safety. Using guides for Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and rainforest areas enhances understanding and reduces stress. A mix of guided experiences and independent exploration often provides the best balance of flexibility and insight.
