Our Ultimate Guide to Peru

• Ancient Worlds: Explore Peru’s iconic sites from Machu Picchu to the Sacred Valley and uncover the stories of the Inca civilisation.

• Natural Wonders: Discover the Amazon rainforest, Lake Titicaca and the dramatic landscapes that make Peru one of the most diverse countries in South America.

• Seamless Journeys: Learn how cruise and stay holidays make it simple to explore Peru’s highlights with guided tours, city visits and inland adventures.

Peru is a country of ancient civilisations, soaring mountains, rich traditions and unforgettable natural wonders.

From the ruins of Machu Picchu high in the Andes to the vast Amazon rainforest and the lively streets of Lima, it is a destination that blends history, culture and adventure in equal measure.

Whether you are drawn to archaeology, cuisine, wildlife or dramatic landscapes, Peru offers a journey filled with remarkable sights and memorable experiences.

Why Visit Peru

Peru is one of the most diverse destinations in South America. Travellers can wander through UNESCO listed historic centres, sail across high altitude lakes, taste world class cuisine and explore some of the continent’s most impressive archaeological wonders.

It is a place where ancient traditions are still alive, where communities welcome visitors with warmth, and where every region offers something different.

It is also a straightforward country to explore as part of an escorted tour or a cruise and stay package, giving travellers the freedom to visit both iconic sites and lesser known corners without the stress of organising transport and connections.

Top Places to Visit in Peru

Lima

The capital of Peru is a vibrant coastal city known for its impressive museums, atmospheric historic quarter and some of the best food in the world. Wander through Plaza Mayor, visit the Larco Museum for a deep dive into pre Columbian history or enjoy a meal overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Miraflores.

Cusco

Once the heart of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a beautiful city filled with cobbled streets, colourful markets and ancient stone walls. Visitors often spend a few days here to explore its churches, plazas and lively neighbourhoods while adjusting to the altitude before heading deeper into the Andes.

Machu Picchu

Peru’s most famous site is a must see for any visitor. This ancient citadel sits high above cloud covered valleys, offering chambers, terraces and temples that reveal the engineering skill of the Inca civilisation. Travellers can arrive by train, guided trek or an escorted tour that includes transport and expert guides.

The Sacred Valley

The region between Cusco and Machu Picchu is home to traditional villages, terraced fields and impressive archaeological sites. Highlights include Ollantaytambo, Pisac and the circular terraces of Moray. It is also a wonderful place to meet local artisans and learn about Andean traditions.

Lake Titicaca

Shared by Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. Visitors can take boat trips to the floating Uros Islands, explore Taquile Island or stay in lakeside towns that offer panoramic views of the surrounding Andes.

The Amazon Rainforest

Peru is home to one of the most biologically rich parts of the Amazon. From Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos, travellers can join guided jungle tours or stay in eco lodges to spot wildlife, take canoe trips and learn about conservation and indigenous communities.

Arequipa and the Colca Canyon

Known as the White City for its volcanic stone buildings, Arequipa is surrounded by dramatic scenery. From here you can venture into the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world and a prime place to see the Andean condor in flight.

Top Things to Do in Peru

Explore Ancient Ruins

From Machu Picchu to Sacsayhuaman and the mysterious Nazca Lines, Peru is filled with archaeological treasures that reveal the achievements of its early civilisations.

Taste Peruvian Cuisine

Peru is celebrated for its food, with dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado and causa found across the country. Travellers can take cooking classes, visit local markets or dine in award winning restaurants.

Ride the Andean Explorer Train

This scenic train journey runs between Cusco, Puno and Arequipa, offering views of high plains, snow capped mountains and traditional villages.

Discover Local Culture

Attend weaving demonstrations in the Sacred Valley, visit traditional Andean communities or explore museums that showcase the country’s heritage.

Venture into the Amazon

Guided tours reveal wildlife such as monkeys, caimans, parrots and river dolphins. Canoe trips, canopy walks and night safaris offer exciting ways to experience the jungle.

How to Visit Peru on a Cruise Holiday

While Peru is not part of every South American cruise itinerary, many voyages around the continent include stops in Lima via the port of Callao.

From here, travellers can join guided tours to the capital’s museums and coastal viewpoints or take extended land packages that visit Cusco, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

Cruise and stay holidays are an excellent option for Peru, as they combine the convenience of sailing with the opportunity to explore inland regions on fully guided tours.

This makes it simple to see the country’s iconic highlights without the stress of planning connections between cities, flights or rail journeys.

Planning Your Trip

When planning a holiday to Peru, consider altitude, regional climate and the type of experience you want.

The dry season from May to October is the best time for trekking in the Andes, while the Amazon is warm and humid year round.

Organised tours and cruise and stay packages provide a seamless way to explore the country, especially if you want to visit multiple regions.

Peru offers landscapes that spark the imagination, stories rooted in ancient history and warm hospitality at every turn.

Speak to a cruise consultant today to discover the best way to include Peru in your next adventure and to plan an itinerary that matches your travel style