Peru
Peru is one of those rare destinations that has everything: ancient history that predates the Roman Empire, landscapes that range from desert coastline to Andean peaks to Amazon rainforest, and a food scene that has become one of the most celebrated in the world. And at the center of it all sits Machu Picchu, the 15th century Inca citadel perched on a mountain ridge above the Urubamba River valley, shrouded in clouds and mystery.
Seeing Machu Picchu in person is one of those travel experiences that lives up to the hype. When the morning fog lifts and the stone ruins emerge against a backdrop of jagged green peaks, you understand why it is considered one of the new seven wonders of the world. But Peru is so much more than a single site. The country rewards travelers who explore beyond the postcard.
Where to Go
Lima is the gateway and deserves more time than most visitors give it. The capital has become one of the top culinary cities in the world. Restaurants like Central and Maido have earned spots on the World’s 50 Best list, and the ceviche alone justifies a two day stay. The historic center, the bohemian Barranco neighborhood, and the clifftop Miraflores district each offer a different side of the city.
Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, is a fascinating city built on Inca foundations. Massive stone walls from the original Inca construction support colonial Spanish churches and buildings. The Plaza de Armas is the heart of the city, surrounded by restaurants, shops, and beautiful architecture. Spend at least a day here acclimatizing to the altitude before heading to the Sacred Valley.
The Sacred Valley between Cusco and Machu Picchu is filled with Inca ruins, traditional villages, and stunning mountain scenery. Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Moray are all worth visiting. The valley sits at a lower altitude than Cusco and is a more comfortable base for acclimatization.
Machu Picchu itself is accessed by train from Ollantaytambo or by hiking the classic Inca Trail over four days. The train is the more accessible option and deposits you in Aguas Calientes, from where a bus takes you up the switchback road to the ruins. Arrive early for the best experience, ideally at the gate opening.
For travelers with more time, the Amazon basin around Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos offers jungle lodges and wildlife experiences that feel like another planet. Lake Titicaca, straddling the border with Bolivia, is the highest navigable lake in the world and home to the Uros people who live on floating reed islands.
Food and Drink
Peruvian food is extraordinary. Ceviche, raw fish cured in lime juice with chili peppers and onions, is the national dish and is best eaten for lunch at a cevicheria in Lima. Lomo saltado, a stir fry of beef, tomatoes, and onions served over rice and fries, reflects the Chinese influence on Peruvian cooking. Anticuchos, grilled beef heart skewers sold at street stalls, are surprisingly delicious and a beloved snack.
Pisco sour is the national cocktail, made from pisco brandy, lime juice, egg white, and bitters. It is refreshing, potent, and available at every bar and restaurant in the country.
Let Us Plan Your Peru Trip
Peru requires thoughtful planning around altitude acclimatization, domestic flights, and Machu Picchu entry permits (which have daily visitor limits and must be booked in advance). We handle all of that so you can focus on the experience. Tell us how many days you have and what matters most, and we will build the trip.
