Peru Travel Guide: How to Plan an Adventurous Trip to Peru
This comprehensive Peru travel guide will help you get organized with all the details to help you plan the ultimate Peru itinerary, with the best places to visit in Peru for adventure lovers. There is so much to experience in this diverse country!
Peru is a traveler’s dream destination! This South American country offers endless opportunities for adventurous travelers. Peru is home to a vast array of wildlife including cute alpacas and llamas, pink dolphins, and massive condors. You can experience everything from wildlife, diverse landscapes, and the crown jewel of Peru, Machu Picchu.
From trekking in the Andes mountain range, experiencing the rich culture of the Incas, exploring the exotic Amazon Rainforest, and feeling the magical energy of Machu Picchu, there is so much to fall in love with.
With so many options and regions to explore, planning is important to maximize your time and itinerary. Let’s get into it!
Peru Travel Guide
Peru is not a large country in comparison to some of its South American neighbors, but you will need adequate time in your itinerary to fully dive in.
I recommend slow travel throughout the country, this will give you proper time to acclimatize to the high altitude and allow you to really sink into the culture and explore at an enjoyable pace. I spent a month slowly traveling around the country, but you could pull off an impressive 2 weeks of activities or even 1 solid week focusing on just Cusco and Machu Picchu.
If you are taking a bus from city to city, you will need to incorporate extra time in your Peru itinerary for the long distance travel times. A lot of bus companies offer overnight routes with full reclining seats to help maximize your time and improve your comfort on long routes.
We used Cruz del Sur bus company multiple times during our travel around Peru, I highly recommend them for any bus travel needs! Get the 160 degree reclining seats and thank me later 😉
Lima
Lima is the capital city of Peru and the most common city to fly into if you are arriving internationally. Its known for good food, grey skies, beautiful cliffs, and Pacific beach costal views.
Where to Stay in Lima
There are two neighborhoods I recommend for your stay in Lima, Miraflores and Barranco. Both neighborhoods are situated on the coast and comfortable to explore on foot with top notch views and vibes.
Miraflores and Barranco are located right beside each other, so regardless of where you decide to stay, make sure to venture out and explore the other!
Miraflores is a safe and convenient neighborhood to base yourself while in Lima. It is known for its beautiful cliffs and parks. Here, you will have easy access to the boardwalk Miraflores Malecon, a beautiful coastal walk which is a must do while in Lima.
Barranco is another favorable neighborhood with an artsy vibe. This is the perfect place to wander around and explore the streets. Here you will find plenty of colorful street art, lively nightlife, cafes and restaurants.
You cannot miss the Puente de los Suspiros (the Bridge of Sighs), it’s the focal point of the neighborhood. If you follow the stairs down from the bridge there is a pathway that will lead you to coastline and more stairs down the the beach.
What to Eat in Lima
Lima is enthusiastically known as the culinary capital of Peru. There are a few dishes that you must try while visiting.
Ceviche
First on the list is Peru’s world famous ceviche; it is fresh and very flavorful. If you only have the opportunity to eat one meal, make it ceviche! And be sure to pair it with a Pisco Sour, the national cocktail of Peru. It’s a win-win flavor combination.
Cuy
Another local cuisine considered a delicacy in Peru is cuy, guinea pig. Cuy has been been part of Peruvian cuisine for centuries, dating back to Inca times. Cuy holds cultural significance and is often associated with special occasions and celebrations. That being said, I did not try it myself because I did not feel comfortable eating it, but I cheer on any adventurous traveler who is willing to give it a try!
Alfajores Cookies
Also, another traditional favorite of mine that is easy to find throughout the country are Peruvian alfajores cookies. Alfajores are shortbread sandwich cookies filled with a dulce de leche caramel-like spread. Sometimes the cookies are dusted with powdered sugar or the edges are rolled in shredded coconut for added texture and flavor. The combination of the sweet creamy filling and the slightly crumbly cookies creates a delightful treat that’s beloved in Peruvian cuisine.
Lomo Saltado
Another beloved dish of Peru is the lomo saltado; a juicy stir fry dish with sirloin beef strips and veggies served with a side of thick cut potato wedges and rice. I highly recommend trying lomo saltado as a post hike meal. You will see this dish served everywhere for good reason!
Churros
To follow any meal, head to Manolo cafe in Miraflores, the churro heaven of Lima! You can sit down and eat or order from the walk up window and take your churros to go. I recommend trying a variety of flavors, I loved the dulce de leche! Don’t worry, you will be walking a lot so eat the churros and enjoy all the delicious culinary experiences in Lima!
What to Do in Lima
After you’ve covered the bases of exploring the neighborhoods and eating the best dishes there are still a few more activities to check out while in Lima.
Take advantage of the Pacific Ocean’s ample water activities and try surf lessons or stand up paddle boarding. If you are adventurous and want a birds eye view of the city try paragliding! With Lima’s cliffs and wind it is the perfect place to give it a go.
You can rent a bike and cruise along the waterfront or alternatively walk along the cliffs on the Miraflores Malecon. Make sure to stop at Parque del Armor, it’s a picture perfect spot for enjoying the sunset.
There are several artisan markets in the Miraflores area that are worthy of browsing and practicing your bargaining skills. Set aside a few hours to explore the Miraflores Indian Market and the Inca Market.
There’s no shortage of colorful textiles, handcrafted souvenirs, and the popular alpaca wool sweaters and ponchos. It is almost a crime to visit Peru and not buy something with an alpaca on it! You will not regret buying a colorful chullo (traditional style Andean knit hat with ear flaps) when you are hiking in altitude and need to keep warm.
Huaraz
Next up is Huaraz, one of the best places to visit in Peru if you love nature and hiking. Huaraz is tucked between two mountain ranges, Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Negra.
Huaraz is a charming and authentic Andean city and a base for locals from surrounding smaller villages and travelers alike. You will see a mixture of locals wearing traditional Andean clothing and travelers in outdoor gear. There is a lively main square and we saw several parades and cultural celebrations during our visit.
Huaraz is surrounded by some of the most stunning landscapes in Peru. While the city itself is not the main attraction, it serves as a gateway to the Huascaran National Park and the surrounding Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Huayhuash mountain ranges.
These areas boast snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and dramatic valleys offering endless opportunities for mountain lovers and adventure seekers. Most travelers come to Huaraz for access to incredible hikes and a wide range of outdoor activities, thus earning Huaraz the title, “hiking capital of Peru.”
If you commit to traveling to Huaraz, I recommend spending at least 5 days, ideally a week or longer. Yes, it is quite a time commitment, but you need to factor in the time it takes to travel to Huaraz and time to acclimatize prior to hiking.
Trust me, you don’t want to rush the process. Once you are there you will wish you had more time in your Peru itinerary!
Take Time to Acclimatize
Take it slow upon arriving in Huaraz due to the altitude. The city sits at 10,000 feet elevation and you will be climbing to much higher elevations during hiking excursions, around 15,000+ feet above sea level. Your body will be adjusting to the lower oxygen levels and it may take 3-5 days to acclimatize.
Spend the first few days walking around town, up and down the hills for hike prep, and stay well hydrated. You have to give your body a little bit of time to adjust to the altitude before you go for the bucket list hikes. Plan to start with an “easier” hike to adjust and prep for the longer hikes and higher altitude.
It’s important to know the symptoms of altitude sickness and listen to your body. Symptoms of altitude sickness can occur when you are above 8,000 feet. Mild symptoms can feel like a hangover; headache, feeling tired, and somewhat ill. More severe symptoms include serious headache, drowsiness, weakness, rapid heartbeat, and confusion.
Simple things like getting adequate rest, avoiding alcohol, and staying hydrated with electrolytes will help. Wim Hof’s teachings about breath work provide information on how to properly breath to improve oxygenation in high altitude, check him out!
Coca Leaf Tea
The coca plant is native to the Andean region of South America. Indigenous people have used coca leaves for thousands of years in South America for various traditional healing practices.
The coca leaves were sacred to the Incas and used medicinally to alleviate altitude sickness, increase energy levels, and decrease mild pain or discomfort. It’s amazing what Mother Nature provides.
Coca leaves can be consumed by chewing the leaves or brewing them into tea. The leaves are believed to help with oxygenation and reduce symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and nausea commonly experienced at higher elevations.
Most hotels offer coca leaf tea with breakfast, it is a great way to start the day as it provides a mild stimulant effect. You can easily buy the dried leaves in the markets to take with you on your excursions. Simply roll a few leaves into a ball and put in your mouth during hikes.
However, it’s important to note that the use of coca leaves should be approached with respect for local traditions and in accordance with legal guidelines. Do not attempt to leave Peru with coca leaves!
Where to Stay in Huaraz
Huaraz is very affordable for budget travelers and offers many different accommodations from hostels to guesthouses. Because Huaraz is a large city, you’ll want to remain close to the city center where you can easily walk to restaurants, shops, the bus terminal, etc.
Also, Huaraz is hilly! We stayed at the top of a hill and it provided a daily challenge of an uphill hike. It wasn’t a dealbreaker, but we did have to take it slow. There were several times used a taxi service to spare our legs and lungs. The positive aspect of staying a bit further from the city center is that it was quiet.
Where to Eat in Huaraz
The city of Huaraz has many places serving up good food for hungry hikers. While acclimatizing you will have a bit more time on your hands to check out restaurants and hang in tourist friendly cafes.
Two of the most notable ones are California Cafe and Cafe Andino. California Cafe is popular with tourists and offers books and games making it a comfortable spot to hang, use wifi, and of course enjoy coffee and food. Cafe Andino is a larger two story cafe with a fireplace, library of travel books, and beautiful mountain views from the upper level covered patio.
If you are hiking or out on an excursion with a tour group you will likely have an early start time and will have food/snacks provided by the tour company.
When booking a hotel, consider if it offers a restaurant and free breakfast. After one particularly grueling hike, my legs were absolutely wrecked and it was so convenient to be able to order dinner at our hotel instead of limping out into the city to find food.
What to Do in Huaraz
Let’s be real, people come to Huaraz to hike! I wouldn’t visit here to strictly sightsee, there’s not much to do. There are plenty of tour companies to help with logistics and setup for day hikes, multi-day trekking, and other excursions.
There are markets and stores to buy hiking snacks or gear, Mercado Central is hard to miss. I highly recommend shopping in the artisan markets here over Cusco. The selection may be smaller but the prices will be cheaper.
I can’t speak on the nightlife in Huaraz. We were exhausted from hiking and went to bed early every night. 😂
Hiking in Huaraz
The natural beauty of the surrounding mountain ranges is what drives hikers and outdoor lovers to the region known as the hiking capital of Peru.
The Cordillera Blanca mountain range is known for vibrant blue glacier lakes such as Laguna 69 and Laguna Paron with backdrops of dreamy snow capped mountain peaks. Within the Cordillera Blanca mountain range is the Huascaran National Park. Inside the park there are plenty of trail options for high altitude hiking.
One thing to consider when planning hikes is that everything requires a significant amount of travel time from Huaraz to trailheads. For example, the popular viewpoint at Laguna Paron is a 3 hour drive (one way) from Huaraz. Most excursions are a minimum 8 hour day.
It is helpful to book with a tour operator to arrange transportation. However, it is possible to independently travel to and from the trailheads by hiring a private driver or taking a collectivo (mini bus).
With overwhelming options of hikes and treks it is hard to go wrong. Every option will lead you to a grand viewpoint.
The most important decision is to plan enough time to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the mountains. The second most important decision is to start with a gentler hike prior to taking on the bigger hikes with higher elevation or multi day hikes.
Here are a few of the best hikes and treks in the Huaraz area:
Laguna Wilcacocha
Laguna Rajucolta
Laguna Churup
Laguna 513
Laguna Paron
Santa Cruz Trek
Huayhuash Trek
Laguna Llaca
As a “starter hike,” I recommend Laguna Llaca. The beginning of the trail starts in the incredible Llaca Valley. The trail will lead you up close to the Ranrapalca Glacier.
I think the scenery in the valley is even more beautiful than the lake itself. It’s easy to overlook Laguna Llaca in comparison to other bucket list hikes in the area, but I think this hike is massively underrated. For less time and effort on this acclimatizing hike you still get access to incredible scenery making it an ideal starter hike.
If you want to learn more about hiking to Laguna Llaca, check out my blog post for all the details.
Laguna 69
Laguna 69 is iconic and considered a bucket list hike in Peru. The bright turquoise lake water is truly a sight you have to see with your own eyes. But trust me, you’re going to have to work for it.
This is considered a moderate to challenging hike due to high altitude and elevation gain, but the views are worth it. Along the trail you will have incredible scenery of the surrounding mountain peaks, waterfalls, and valley.
Click here to read my blog post about how to plan your hike to Laguna 69.
Huacachina
The landscapes in Peru are surprisingly diverse. This little desert oasis town is a total contrast to the mountainous region of Huaraz.
Huacachina is located in the Ica Valley between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes Mountains. The focal point of the little town is the lagoon with surrounding massive sand dunes.
Huacachina is approximately 4.5 hours south of Lima and a little more than 2 hours north of the Nazca lines. First, you will arrive to the nearby town of Ica and then take a 10 minute taxi to Huacachina. Once you are in Huacachina, everything is walkable. You will only need a taxi to get back and forth from the bus station in Ica.
There’s not much to do in Huacachina except partake in the adventurous activities available in the desert. We spent two nights here to allow for one full day in Huacachina and I felt that was sufficient, I would not invest more time than that.
When planning your visit, you should consider where you are coming from and the time investment it will require. From Huaraz it is a very long bus ride to Ica with a stop in Lima totaling approximately 12 hours travel time on a bus.
If I was traveling this route again I would probably not opt to go to Huacachina. Personally, I think the mountain regions of Peru are much more scenic and beautiful. I would prefer to spend my time there, but it was an interesting little stop and fun for a day.
What to do in Huacachina
If you plan your one full day day right, you can easily enjoy all the things. Start your day with a morning hike up the sand dunes, it’s a slow burn but the views are worth it! I love the feeling of bare feet walking in sand, it’s so grounding and I found myself constantly smiling.
Afterwards, enjoy breakfast/lunch and opt for either lounging at your hotel pool (my choice) or renting a paddle boat on the lagoon. Of note, the lagoon water is not safe for swimming.
The main event of the day is to go out for a dune buggy ride in the early evening, which will position you perfectly to enjoy sunset out on the dunes. There are tons of offers in town to book a ride, this is not something you need to prebook.
The dune buggy was such a thrill, thank goodness for the seatbelts because you will be bouncing off your seat! You will also have the chance to try sandboarding down the massive sand dunes. You can go either on your stomach like a sled or standing like a proper snowboarder.
Most of the tours end right before sunset with people dispersing among the dunes for the prize view looking down on the little desert oasis while the sky puts on a show of colors. It is the perfect way to end your time in Huacachina, covered in sand and full of smiles.
Cusco
If you can only visit one place in Peru, you must visit Cusco! The beloved historic city of Cusco is home of the Inca Empire and high altitude. Cusco is the cultural capital of Peru with traditional Inca stone lined streets and Spanish Colonial influences.
Cusco isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience where ancient history meets vibrant culture in the heart of the Andes. Check out my blog post where I go into all the details: 10 Best Things to Do in Cusco, Peru.
Prepare for lively parades in the Plaza De Armas, cute alpacas, live music and traditional dancing, amazing cafes and food, lots of stairs, incredible day trip opportunities, and nonstop shortness of breath…Cusco is a good time!
Take your time, hydrate appropriately, and move slowly because Cusco is located at an altitude of 11,000+ feet. Trust me, you will feel it during the uphill walks.
Cusco is a great place to base yourself if you have limited time in Peru. From Cusco there are tons of incredible day trips and archaeological sites within reach. Most importantly, Machu Picchu is only a short train ride or trek away.
10 Best Things to Do in Cusco
1. Hang out at the Plaza De Armas
To get a feel for Cusco, start by visiting the beautiful Plaza De Armas, (the main square) where all the action is.
2. Sacsayhuaman Ruins
This historical Incan ruin sits on a hill above Cusco with panoramic views of the city.
3. Eat your way through Cusco
From bougie to backpacker friendly, local to international cuisine, and plenty of vegan options you are in a foodie paradise.
4. Explore the San Blas neighborhood
The San Blas neighborhood is home to some of the best cafes, artisan shops, and charming streets in Cusco.
5. Simply Wander the Streets
All of the main attractions in the historic area of Cusco are walkable.
6. Shop!
The shopping in Cusco is incredible, from the large markets to the street vendors there is so much to browse.
7. Museums
If you want to dig deeper into the Incan and Peruvian history and culture, there are many museums in Cusco that offer interesting exhibits.
8. Visit the Sacred Valley
Stretching between Cusco and the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu, this scenic valley is a place of profound historical significance and natural splendor.
9. Hike Rainbow Mountain
Hiking Rainbow Mountain in Peru is a bucket list adventure that promises a colorful display of natural beauty and a thrilling outdoor experience.
10. Hike Laguna Humantay
Hiking to Laguna Humantay in Peru is a captivating adventure that immerses you in the stunning landscapes of the Andes while rewarding your efforts with the sight of a pristine turquoise lake nestled amidst the mountains.
Visit Machu Picchu
A trip to Machu Picchu is a highlight of any Peru itinerary! Machu Picchu is an archeological gem of the Inca empire and the crown jewel of Peru. It’s known as, “the lost city of the Incas.”
From its setting on top of a mountain with 360 degree views of beauty, its mysterious abandonment, and its magical aura it is truly an unforgettable experience.
History of Machu Picchu
In Quechua, the language of the Incas, Machu Picchu means, “old mountain.” Part of the mysterious allure of Machu Picchu is that there are no written records about its historical significance from the Incas or Spanish colonists. Therefore, there are many speculations about its function and purpose.
Machu Picchu is believed to have served as a royal estate for Incan Emperor Pachacuti. Among other things, it could have been a sacred place for worship, an astronomical observatory with many of its structures aligning with the rising and setting of the sun during the solstices and equinoxes, an agricultural area, and fortress.
Steeped in mystery and historical significance, its purpose however, remains a subject of debate among historians.
Machu Picchu was constructed in the mid 1400s and inhabited for an estimated 100 years prior to abandonment. It was thrust into the world spotlight in 1911 by explorer Hiram Bingham after he was led to the site by local farmers.
Planning Logistics
Planning a trip to Machu Picchu involves several essential considerations to ensure a smooth experience. Things to consider include arranging transportation to Aguas Calientes, booking accommodations, and planning a Machu Picchu tour.
I’ll go over a rundown of the top things to consider when visiting this famous archaeological site, but if you want more in depth details, check out my blog post specifically about How to Plan a Trip to Machu Picchu.
Transportation to Aguas Calientes and How to Get to Machu Picchu
Whether opting for a trek, train journey, or alternative routes, arranging transportation to Aguas Calientes, the town nearest to Machu Picchu, is the first step towards visiting Machu Picchu.
If you are hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you will bypass entering via Aguas Calientes and hike through the Sun Gate and straight into Machu Picchu on your final day. The Salkantay Trek or alternative routes will arrive into Aguas Calientes on the final day of the hike and then tour Machu Picchu the next day.
There are two railroad companies that offer convenient and comfortable train services from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, the Inca Rail and Peru Rail.
The scenic train journey travels through the picturesque Sacred Valley, offering glimpses of Andean villages and the Urubamba River. With various service classes and schedules available, you can choose what’s best to suit your preference and budget.
Accommodations in Aguas Calientes
Most people spend a night in Aguas Calientes either before or after touring Machu Picchu. It’s a great way to make the trip a little more leisurely. However, it is totally possible to do a full day trip from Cusco if you choose to go that route…just know that you will be on a very tight schedule.
If you are traveling without a tour company, accommodation in Aguas Calientes should be booked beforehand to guarantee a comfortable stay, considering the town’s popularity among visitors. There are many hotel options ranging from budget to bougie.
If you are trekking with a tour company or arranging a Machu Picchu tour with a tour company, they will handle booking accommodations as part of the tour package.
Touring Machu Picchu
Touring Machu Picchu will help bring the fascinating history of the Inca civilization to life. Incredible architecture and stone structures like the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the agricultural terraces stand as testaments to the ingenuity of the Incas.
In addition to touring the ruins and main viewpoints, you can also hike to the top of Huayna Picchu mountain or Machu Picchu mountain. If you want to add on these excursions, make sure to purchase the appropriate entrance ticket.
Brief Information about Machu Picchu Tickets
Securing entrance tickets in advance is crucial, especially during the peak season (June-August), as daily visitor quotas apply. Most tour companies include tickets as part of their tour package.
There are multiple circuits to choose from when purchasing a ticket. The circuits were introduced in an attempt to better control the flow of traffic and help preserve the ancient site.
It is important to know that you must stick to the circuit path of your ticket purchase, you will not have access to the entire site and all the viewpoints so do your research to decide which circuit you want to do. Circuit 2 is the most popular route, offering the best classic viewpoints and access to the majority of the site.
Lastly, familiarize yourself with Machu Picchu’s regulations and guidelines, including rules on photography and responsible tourism practices. You cannot bring in selfie sticks and tripods. This helps to ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit while preserving the sanctity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are new guidelines for visiting Machu Picchu in 2024. It’s important to know there is a 4 hour limit to visiting the ruins, re-entry is prohibited, and it is mandatory to have a guide. Also, it is prohibited to walk backwards. Foot traffic is one way only. Weird, I know I had a whistle blown at me.
Final Thoughts on Machu Picchu
There are many exciting routes and options for planning a visit to Machu Picchu. This allows you to customize your dream trip to Machu Picchu, but it can also be quite overwhelming with so many options.
Click here for my in depth blog post about How to Plan a Trip to Machu Picchu
Aguas Calientes: The True Gateway to Machu Picchu
The town of Aguas Calientes is a bustling hub for tourists visiting Machu Picchu. The little mountain town has all the amenities travelers need; restaurants, hotels, hot springs, shops, and the bus & train stations. There is plenty to keep you busy before or after your Machu Picchu tour.
If you are arriving by train, I recommend staying one night in Aguas Calientes prior to visiting Machu Picchu. This will give you the advantage of being able to visit early in the morning and potentially being one of the first visitors through the entrance gates. It also means you don’t have to rush, you’re already there!
If you are doing the Salkantay Trek like I did, you will spend your final night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes. After camping for several days, it will feel so luxurious! Be sure to enjoy a pisco sour cocktail to celebrate completing the trek to Machu Picchu with your hiking crew.
Things to Do in Aguas Calientes
Walking is the only way to get around this small town, but don’t fret if you have sore muscles and feet after a long trek, it only takes about 10 minutes to go from one side to the other.
If your muscles need a soak, check out the Thermal Baths! Aguas Calientes received its name from the natural hot springs in the area. They are open daily from 5am to 8pm and cost 20 soles.
There are changing rooms and lockers available and towels for rent. You can find the location on Google Maps, just search for Banos Termales in Aguas Calientes.
After you explore Machu Picchu, you might have a little extra time in Aguas Calientes before departing on the train. I recommend finding a spot for lunch or coffee and letting the experience marinate.
I loved Inkani Cafe, it was right beside the Urubamba River with a few outdoor seating options. There is also a restaurant next door if you want more than cafe food, check out Toto’s House Restaurant.
The Amazon Rainforest
An adventure to Peru wouldn’t be complete without an excursion into the lush Amazon Rainforest. The Amazon Rainforest spans across 40% of South America and it has extensive reach in Peru, covering almost 60% of the country!
Visiting this expansive ecosystem gives nature lovers a chance to experience its incredible biodiversity of plants and animals and learn about the indigenous communities who call this wild place home.
Planning Your Trip to the Peru Amazon
Peru offers relatively easy access to the Amazon from several major cities and several options for entry points into the rainforest. There are 3 popular regions: Iquitos region, Manu region, and Tambopata region.
Iquitos Region
Iquitos is the gateway to the north east portion of the Amazon and is the most remote entry point. There are daily direct 2 hour flights from Lima to Iquitos and flights from Cusco that connect in Lima en route to Iquitos.
Iquitos is only accessible by plane and then requires a boat trip on the Amazon river to venture into the jungle.
Iquitos is the only region where you will be directly on the true Amazon river, as opposed to small tributary rivers of the Amazon in other regions.
The Iquitos region is generally a little more expensive than other regions, but offers higher standards of lodge facilities and access to visit local indigenous villages.
Manu Region
Manu National Park is in southeastern Peru. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and because it is nationally protected land, it offers pristine biodiversity where wildlife and different ecosystems thrive.
The Manu region provides the best value options for tours and lodging with basic accommodations. There are multiple zones within the Manu region encompassing the national park and some areas have tourist restrictions to protect the primitive indigenous tribes that live in the region.
From Cusco you can take a bus or flight to Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to Manu. From Puerto Maldonado you can travel by boat or van transfer into different areas of Manu. Most tours will arrange the transportation logistics for you.
Tambopata Region
The Tambopata National Reserve is located close to the Manu region in southeastern Peru, near the Bolivia border. The Tambopata National Reserve is a very popular option for Amazon rainforest tours because it offers comfortable accommodation options, easy access through Puerto Maldonado, and is known for ample wildlife.
Tambopata region is accessed again through Puerto Maldonado. From Lima or Cusco you can book a flight or take an approximately 10 hour bus ride from Cusco. Once you arrive in Puerto Maldonado you will transfer by boat to your lodge destination.
Best Time to Visit the Amazon
There are 2 things constant year round in the Amazon, rain and humidity. However, there are low water and high water seasons to consider when planning the best time to visit.
Rain/high water season runs approximately December through April and the summer/low water season is approximately May through November. Anytime of year is good for wildlife in the Amazon, but each season offers different factors to consider.
Summer season is known for decreased mosquitos, lower river levels, and better access to trails, however it comes with increased temperatures.
The high water season is ideal for water activities and is the start of the mating season where animals are increasingly active. February is generally the worst month in the rainy season.
I visited in May and had a good experience with the weather. The rain only lasted for short durations and we were able to comfortably participate in the excursions. We even experienced an 8.0 magnitude earthquake while in the jungle!
Choosing Accommodations
It is impossible to visit the Amazon rainforest independently. Due to logistics of getting to the remote locations and the fact that so many things in the rainforest can kill you, you need a guide! Therefore, choosing where you stay will have a great impact on your experience.
There are many different accommodations to suite your travel style: luxury lodges, eco-resorts, and even cruises. First, consider what kind of experience you want to have.
Overview of Amazon Rainforest Lodges
Amazon lodges range from eco-resorts to luxury. The location of the lodge is key to your experience. A more remote location provides increased quality and variety of wildlife. Therefore, lodges near a national park or national reserve will have more pristine surroundings.
You can expect more land based excursions and experiences while staying in a lodge compared to cruises. Although, you will have plenty of opportunities to explore by boat as well.
Because of the remote nature of Amazon lodges, booking a lodge is all inclusive meaning they will provide transportation, all meals, and guided tours.
It’s also important to consider that most lodges are eco-friendly, which means that the electricity, lights, and fans turn on and off at certain times.
Staying in a lodge will directly connect you with nature as you are surrounded by it and interacting with it daily. I experienced some of my best sleep ever while in the Amazon thankful to the peaceful nature sounds at night combined with lack of electronics and light pollution, it was wonderful!
Overview of Amazon River Cruises
An Amazon river cruise is another unique way to experience the Amazon while in Peru. On a cruise you have the advantage of being able to cover more area over the course of the tour.
Cruises are known to offer a more hotel like experience with upgraded amenities and protection from bugs. This comes at a cost though, cruises are generally more expensive than lodges and you will most likely spend more time on board than out in nature.
Experiencing the Amazon Rainforest
Visiting the Amazon in Peru will give you a glimpse into how massive and lively the rainforest is. The best way to experience this natural wonder is with an open mind, patience, and a knowledgable native guide. Nature is unpredictable so be prepared for all experiences and go with the flow.
Guided Jungle Treks and Wildlife Spotting
As part of your tour, you have daily jungle walks with a guide to spot wildlife and learn about the intricate balance of life in the jungle. From the massive tree trunks to giant ants and mushrooms, life is very interesting in the rainforest. Monkeys and sloths are usually the easiest wildlife to spot in the trees, so make sure to look up as well.
I was fascinated learning about the medicinal plants only found in the Amazon as our guide recalled personal stories of using different plants for various ailments and illnesses. Again, it’s amazing what Mother Nature (or Pachamama as the Peruvians say) provides.
Most lodges provide guests with tall rubber boots because the trails can be wet and muddy. I recommend coming prepared with long sleeves, bug spray, and a head covering as well.
Canoe Trips and Water Excursions
You can also expect canoe trip excursions for bird watching, piranha fishing, and spotting pink river dolphins.
One thing I really enjoyed was the night canoe trip to see the sky full of stars. Without the light pollution of a city, the sky really puts on a beautiful display on a clear night.
Visit Indigenous Communities
Within the Amazon, indigenous tribes have lived and thrived for centuries. As part of a tour, you may have the chance to get a glimpse into their lives and learn about their culture by visiting an indigenous community.
Their traditions, knowledge of medicinal plants, and harmonious relationship with the environment offer a profound understanding of sustainable and primitive living.
Participate in an Ayahuasca Ceremony
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew used by indigenous tribes in the Peruvian Amazon for religious rituals and spiritual healing. Some lodges offer an Ayahuasca ceremony as part of the tour package. Make sure it is responsibly served by a local shaman who upholds its traditions.
Participating in a ceremony requires planning and preparation to ensure you have a good experience, it is not to be taken mindlessly. Please research and explore this further if you are interested in having this experience while visiting the Amazon.
The Importance of the Amazon Rainforest
Exploring the Peruvian Amazon isn’t just about admiring nature; it’s about understanding our interconnectedness with it and the need to preserve these invaluable ecosystems.
Whether walking through the dense jungle, cruising down the Amazon River, or engaging with indigenous communities, every experience in the Amazon is an opportunity to appreciate our planet’s biodiversity.
I hope this travel guide serves as a roadmap to an adventurous exploration of the best places to visit in Peru. Peru still stands as one of my favorite and most recommended travel destinations. There’s no shortage of experiences and natural beauty to fulfill your wanderlust and to keep you dreaming of returning!
If you have more time in your Peru itinerary, add these to your trip!
Colca Canyon
Arequipa
Lake Titicaca
Nazca Lines
Monterrey Hot Springs in Huaraz
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