Peru Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Machu Picchu – Incan citadel and world wonder
- Cusco – Cultural capital and gateway to the Sacred Valley
- Lima – Coastal capital known for cuisine and colonial architecture
- Lake Titicaca – Highest navigable lake in the world
- Arequipa – White city surrounded by volcanoes
Best Hotels to Stay
Language & Culture
Spanish is the official language, along with Quechua and Aymara in some regions. Peru’s rich culture blends ancient Incan heritage with Spanish influence, evident in its festivals, food, and handicrafts.
Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transportation: Buses, taxis, domestic flights, trains to Machu Picchu
- Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN)
- Food: Ceviche, lomo saltado, ají de gallina, alpaca steak
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| May – Sep | Dry season | Best for trekking and sightseeing |
| Oct – Apr | Wet season | Rainy but lush landscapes |
Main entry points: Jorge Chávez Intl Airport (LIM), Alejandro Velasco Astete (CUZ)
Estimated Budget (for Two Travelers)
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | $800 – $1400 | Round trip international |
| Accommodation | $400 – $1000 | Mid-range to boutique |
| Dining | $250 – $400 | Street food to fine dining |
| Transport | $150 – $300 | Local and regional travel |
| Activities | $200 – $500 | Machu Picchu tours, museums |
Packing List Suggestions
- Passport, visa (if required)
- Hiking shoes, rain jacket
- Sunscreen, water bottle, snacks
- Camera, travel guidebook
20 Basic Language Tips
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hola | Hello |
| Buenos días | Good morning |
| Buenas tardes | Good afternoon |
| Buenas noches | Good night |
| ¿Cómo está? | How are you? |
| Bien, gracias | Fine, thank you |
| Por favor | Please |
| Gracias | Thank you |
| De nada | You’re welcome |
| Disculpe | Excuse me |
| ¿Cuánto cuesta? | How much is it? |
| ¿Dónde está el baño? | Where is the bathroom? |
| No hablo español | I don’t speak Spanish |
| ¿Habla inglés? | Do you speak English? |
| Lo siento | I’m sorry |
| Estoy perdido | I’m lost |
| Ayuda | Help |
| Abierto | Open |
| Cerrado | Closed |
| ¿Dónde está? | Where is it? |
Health & Safety
- Altitude sickness is common in high areas—hydrate and acclimatize
- Use bottled or filtered water
- Emergency number: 105
Festivals & Holidays
- Inti Raymi (June) – Festival of the Sun in Cusco
- Carnaval – February celebrations with parades and dancing
- Semana Santa – Holy Week with processions
