Peru is one of Latin America’s most rewarding destinations, combining ancient civilizations, dramatic landscapes, vibrant living traditions, and one of the world’s most exciting culinary scenes. The journey can begin in Lima, where exceptional restaurants and museums introduce the country’s contemporary culture, before continuing into the Andes and the Sacred Valley.
Machu Picchu remains an unforgettable highlight, but Peru extends far beyond the famous citadel. Discover Cusco and the Sacred Valley, explore Arequipa and Colca Canyon, travel to Lake Titicaca, or venture into the Amazon aboard a luxury river cruise. Exeter also offers luxury rail journeys aboard the Hiram Bingham and Andean Explorer, allowing travelers to experience the country in style.
Essential Peru
Discover Peru through the vibrant capital of Lima, the spectacular landscapes of the Sacred Valley, and the extraordinary heritage of Machu Picchu. Explore Lima’s historic and culinary character before traveling through the Andes, visiting Chinchero, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo along the way. Complete the journey in Cusco, combining its rich cultural heritage with the iconic experience of Machu Picchu and a private culinary experience in Lima.
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Highlights
- Explore Lima through a private city tour and immersive culinary experience in Barranco
- Discover the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo
- Experience Machu Picchu with a guided visit and scenic train journeys through the Andes
- Discover Cusco’s historic center and distinctive Andean heritage with a private city tour
Lima & Southern Peru
Discover the rich cultural heritage, extraordinary landscapes, and culinary traditions of southern Peru, from the vibrant capital of Lima to the historic streets of Arequipa, the dramatic Colca Canyon, and the serene waters of Lake Titicaca. Explore Lima through its world-class cuisine, museums, and contemporary arts scene before continuing into the Andes. Along the way, experience local flavors and traditions, encounter the Andean condor, and immerse yourself in the communities and landscapes surrounding Lake Titicaca.
Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights
Highlights
- Explore Lima’s historic center, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and contemporary arts scene
- Discover Arequipa’s colonial architecture and distinctive culinary traditions
- Experience the dramatic landscapes of Colca Canyon and the Andean world of the condor
- Explore Lake Titicaca through indigenous communities, ancient traditions, and scenic excursions across the lake
Amazon to Machu Picchu
Discover Peru through the vibrant character of Lima, the spectacular landscapes of the Sacred Valley, the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu, and the extraordinary biodiversity of the Amazon. Explore Lima before traveling through the Andes, with visits to Chinchero, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Cusco along the way. Complete the journey in Iquitos, venturing deep into the Amazon aboard a luxury riverboat and experiencing the remarkable landscapes and wildlife of the Peruvian rainforest.
Highlights
- Explore Lima’s distinctive character with a private city tour
- Discover the Sacred Valley through Chinchero, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo
- Experience Machu Picchu and the historic streets of Cusco
- Journey into the Amazon from Iquitos aboard a luxury riverboat, exploring the rainforest and its extraordinary natural environment
Lima
Best Time to Visit: December–April
Peru’s capital is a destination in its own right, with world-class restaurants, fascinating museums, historic neighborhoods, and a remarkable culinary culture. Discover the city’s diverse influences through private food and cultural experiences.
Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Best Time to Visit: May–September
The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu bring Peru’s Incan heritage to life through extraordinary archaeological sites, mountain landscapes, traditional communities, and spectacular journeys through the Andes. Explore with private guides and travel in comfort aboard one of Peru’s renowned luxury trains.
Peruvian Amazon
Best Time to Visit: June–October
The Amazon offers a completely different perspective on Peru, with dense rainforest, winding waterways, remarkable biodiversity, and remote communities. Explore by luxury river cruise or land-based lodge with expert naturalist guides.
When is the best time to visit Peru?
Peru can be visited year-round, although May through September is generally considered the best period for the Andes and Machu Picchu, with drier conditions. The coast and Amazon have different seasonal patterns so the ideal timing depends on your itinerary.
How many days should I spend in Peru?
We recommend at least 5–12 days to combine Lima, the Sacred Valley, Cusco, and Machu Picchu. With additional time, you can add the Amazon, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa, or other regions.
How far in advance should I plan my Peru trip?
We recommend planning at least six months in advance. For peak travel periods, particularly June through August, and for limited availability experiences such as luxury trains and Machu Picchu, nine–twelve months ahead is recommended.
How difficult is it to visit Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is accessible to travelers with different levels of mobility and fitness, although the surrounding region is mountainous and some excursions involve walking on uneven terrain. Private guides and carefully selected accommodations can make the experience comfortable and enjoyable.
Can I combine Machu Picchu with the Amazon?
Absolutely. The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu pair exceptionally well with the Peruvian Amazon, offering a journey that combines ancient culture and dramatic Andean landscapes with wildlife and rainforest exploration.
Is Peru suitable for luxury travel?
Yes. Peru offers exceptional boutique hotels, luxury properties, private guides, world-class restaurants, luxury river cruises, and some of South America’s finest rail journeys. Exeter Latin America can incorporate experiences such as the Belmond Hiram Bingham or Andean Explorer into a private itinerary.
How do I get around Peru?
Domestic flights are the most efficient way to connect Lima with Cusco and other major regions. Trains, private transfers, and carefully planned road journeys are then used to connect travelers with destinations such as the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and other areas.
How safe is Peru?
Peru is safe for our private journeys when traveling with trusted local partners and following the guidance of our specialists. Exeter Latin America works with carefully selected hotels, guides, drivers, and local partners who know the destinations well and provide support throughout the journey.
Is Peru famous for its food?
Very much so. Peru is one of the world’s most exciting culinary destinations, combining Indigenous, Spanish, African, Chinese, Japanese, and other influences. Lima in particular is renowned for its restaurants, while regional cuisine adds another dimension to traveling through the country.
Is Peru family-friendly?
Yes. Peru offers fascinating experiences for families, including Machu Picchu, wildlife, cooking classes, train journeys, cultural activities, and outdoor adventures. Journeys can be tailored around the ages and interests of each family.