Trip to Peru:
Info, Tips, Tricks & Magical Places

Geography & Population:

Peru is divided into three distinct regions, each offering a unique experience:

    1. La Costa (10% of the territory): A narrow desert strip along the Pacific Ocean, famous for its beaches, vibrant cities (Lima), and seafood cuisine.

    2. La Sierra (30%): The heart of the Andes, with snow-capped peaks, colonial villages (Cusco, Arequipa), and Inca sites. Ideal for trekking and history.

    3. La Selva (60%): The Peruvian Amazon, a lush jungle home to extraordinary biodiversity and indigenous communities.

 

With 1.28 million km² (2.5 times the size of France), Peru remains sparsely populated: 1/3 of the population lives in Lima, leaving vast wild spaces to explore.

 

Climate & Seasons:

Peru defies any climatic generalization thanks to its three distinct zones:

    1. The Coast (desert):

        ◦ Dry and foggy (garúa) from May to November, especially in Lima.

        ◦ Summer (December to March): Sunny and warm (>25°C), perfect for beaches (Máncora, Paracas).

    2. The Sierra (Andes):

        ◦ Dry season (April-October): Sunny days, cold nights (0°C in Cusco). Perfect time for trekking.

        ◦ Rainy season (November-March): Green landscapes but slippery trails (Machu Picchu can be foggy).

    3. The Amazon (tropical):

        ◦ Hot and humid year-round (25-30°C).

        ◦ Prefer the "dry" season (April-October) to avoid heavy rains.

 

Important note: Peru is in the southern hemisphere. When it's winter in Europe (December), it's summer on the Peruvian coast!

Peruvian culture is a fascinating blend of Indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Pre-Columbian civilizations such as the Incas, Mochicas, and Nazcas left their mark on the country's history and culture. Spanish culture also played a major role, particularly in colonial architecture and the Spanish language spoken today.

Traditional Festivals:

Peru is famous for its many traditional and religious festivals that showcase its rich cultural heritage and ethnic diversity. Here's an overview of some of the most iconic and celebrated festivals in Peru:

• Carnival of Cusco:

Held in February or March, this is one of Peru's most important carnivals. It spans several days and features lively dances, colorful parades, and festive costumes.

• Inti Raymi:

Also known as the "Festival of the Sun," Inti Raymi is an iconic celebration of Inca culture held annually on June 24 in Cusco. This festival commemorates the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere and offers a unique opportunity to witness ancient rituals, traditional dances, and a spectacular reenactment of the Inca's coronation.

• Holy Week in Ayacucho:

This major religious festival takes place annually during Holy Week. The celebrations include solemn processions, liturgical ceremonies, and traditional dances.

• Festival of the Virgin of Candelaria:

This vibrant celebration occurs in February in Puno. It honors the Virgin of Candelaria, the city's patron saint, and features folk dances, colorful processions, and spectacular fireworks.

• Señor de los Milagros:

This is the largest religious procession in Latin America, held every October in Lima. The festival commemorates a miracle that occurred in 1655 and attracts millions of devotees from across the country.

• Qoyllur Rit'i:

This traditional Andean festival takes place annually in May or June near Cusco. Held in the mountains in honor of the Lord of Qoyllur Rit'i, it includes processions, dances, and offerings.

 

Peru has many other festivals celebrated throughout the country, each with its own traditions and customs. These events are the perfect opportunity to experience Peruvian culture in all its splendor.

 

Traditional Music & Dance

Peru boasts a musical and choreographic heritage as diverse as its regions:

• Coast:

◦ Marinera: An elegant dance with fluid movements, symbolizing courtship. Its music blends guitars, cajón (percussion box), and sometimes trumpets.

◦ Festejo: A lively Afro-Peruvian rhythm played with the cajón and checo (gourd), often danced at popular festivals.

• Andes:

◦ Huayno: The iconic music and dance of the mountains, with melodies played on the quena (flute) and Andean harp. Colorful costumes and quick steps tell rural stories.

◦ Diablada: A theatrical dance originating in Puno, where masked dancers enact the battle between good and evil during the Virgin of Candelaria festival.

• Amazon:

◦ Anaconda Dance: A sacred ceremony by Indigenous communities (like the Shipibo-Conibo) imitating the movements of the anaconda, accompanied by drums and icaros (traditional chants). The dance symbolizes rebirth and harmony with nature.

 

Note: These traditions are very much alive—you'll often see them performed at the festivals mentioned above.

Peru is home to some of the most spectacular sites in South America, ranging from archaeological ruins to natural wonders. Here are the main places to discover:

Cusco

The former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco fascinates with its architecture, where perfectly assembled Inca walls blend with colonial churches. The city, perched at 3,400 meters above sea level, serves as the starting point for Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu

This 15th-century Inca citadel, located at 2,430 meters above sea level, is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. It can be reached by train from Cusco or via the Inca Trail, a multi-day trek.

Sacred Valley of the Incas

This fertile valley is home to several major sites, such as the ruins of Pisac and its fortress, the village of Ollantaytambo with its ceremonial complex, and the circular agricultural terraces of Moray.

Lake Titicaca

At 3,812 meters above sea level, this navigable lake, the highest in the world, is home to the floating reed islands of the Uros and Taquile Island, renowned for its traditional textiles.

Arequipa

Nicknamed the "White City" due to its buildings made of sillar, a volcanic stone, Arequipa boasts a historic center classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dominated by the Misti volcano.

Colca Canyon

Located a few hours from Arequipa, this canyon, twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, offers spectacular viewpoints to observe condors in flight.

Peruvian Amazon

The Amazon rainforest covers nearly 60% of Peru's territory. The Tambopata and Manu reserves allow visitors to observe exceptional biodiversity from eco-lodges.

Nazca Lines

These mysterious geoglyphs, created between 500 BC and 500 AD, are best revealed during a flight over the Nazca Desert.

Kuélap

This fortress of the Chachapoyas culture, perched at 3,000 meters above sea level in the clouds of northern Peru, rivals Machu Picchu in scale.

Huascarán National Park

In the Cordillera Blanca, this park is home to Peru's highest peak (6,768 meters) and hundreds of turquoise lagoons, offering spectacular Andean landscapes.

Chan Chan

Near Trujillo, this adobe city, built by the Chimú culture, is the largest pre-Columbian city in the Americas.

Gocta Falls

In the Amazonas region, these 771-meter-high waterfalls, among the tallest in the world, are discovered after a hike through the cloud forest.

 

This list covers the main sites, but Peru holds many other treasures to discover depending on your interests and itinerary.

Peru has been repeatedly voted the world's best culinary destination, an honor that reflects the extraordinary diversity of its cuisine. This gastronomic wealth draws from three major influences:

Pre-Columbian traditions (corn, potatoes, quinoa)

Spanish colonial heritage (cooking techniques, meats)

Migrant contributions (African, Chinese, and Japanese influences)

 

Where to Eat in Peru?

Peruvian cuisine can be enjoyed at all levels:

Street food stalls: Offering anticuchos (beef heart skewers), empanadas, or tropical fruits.

Mercados (markets): These covered markets provide an authentic experience with their small eateries (cevicherías, picanterías).

Traditional restaurants: To sample typical dishes in a friendly atmosphere.

Gourmet establishments: Peru shines on the international culinary scene, with restaurants consistently ranked among the world's best, showcasing its gastronomic excellence.

 

Must-Try Dishes by Region

On the Coast:

Ceviche (fish marinated in lime)

Causa limeña (potato terrine)

Aji de gallina (creamy chicken stew)

 

In the Andes:

Lomo saltado (Peruvian beef stir-fry) 

Cuy (roasted guinea pig) 

Pachamanca (meats cooked underground)

 

In the Amazon: 

Juane (rice and meat wrapped in leaves) 

River fish (like paiche) 

Exotic fruits (camu camu, aguaje)

 

For a deeper exploration of Peruvian culinary delights, check out our selection of 10 typical dishes you must try in Peru.

 

Traditional Drinks 

Pisco sour (national cocktail) 

Tropical fruit juices (lucuma, chirimoya) 

Chicha morada (purple corn drink) 

Coca leaf tea (for altitude sickness)

 

Also discover our list of 10 traditional Peruvian beverages to enhance your gastronomic experience.

 

Unique Culinary Experiences 

Cooking classes to learn local techniques

Market tours with tastings

Gastronomic routes (like the Pisco trail)

 

This cuisine, both traditional and innovative, is an integral part of the Peruvian experience. From humble eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants, it delights every palate.

 

Note: Recent rankings feature Peruvian restaurants among the world's top 10, reflecting the country's culinary excellence on the global stage.

Peru offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit all travel styles and budgets. Whether you're looking for an authentic stay, modern comfort, or immersion in nature, here's an overview of the main options available.

In Cities (Lima, Cusco, Arequipa...)

Standard and boutique hotels: Combine modern comfort with local charm, often housed in renovated colonial buildings.

Hostels: Social and budget-friendly, ideal for solo travelers or those seeking connections.

Apartments and rentals: A practical alternative for extended stays or families, offering more independence.

 

In the Andes (Sacred Valley, Puno...)

Eco-lodges: Environmentally-friendly accommodations, often located in spectacular natural settings.

Boutique hotels: Some are set in former haciendas, offering warm and historic atmospheres.

Homestays: An authentic immersion in local culture, particularly around Lake Titicaca.

 

In the Amazon (Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado...)

Jungle lodges: Nestled deep in the forest, with included excursions to observe wildlife.

Riverboat hotels: A unique way to explore Amazonian rivers while sleeping on the water.

 

On the Coast (Máncora, Paracas...)

Beach resorts: With pools and direct beach access, perfect for a relaxing stay.

Eco-cabins: Simple accommodations built with natural materials, offering a peaceful seaside vibe.

 

Options for All Budgets

Budget: Hostels and hospedajes (local guesthouses) for economical stays.

Mid-range: Comfortable 3-4 star hotels with essential services.

Luxury: High-end establishments with spas and refined restaurants.

 

Unique Stays: Unconventional Accommodations

For an extraordinary experience, Peru offers several atypical lodging options:

Mountain-view capsules: Suspended on cliff sides, these transparent pods offer breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley.

Floating islands of Lake Titicaca: Staying with locals on the Uros reed islands provides unique immersion in ancestral culture.

Jungle treehouses: Some Amazon lodges feature elevated cabins open to the forest for total nature connection.

Cave dwellings: Carved into rock or integrated into Andean landscapes, offering quirky and authentic settings.

Panoramic domes and bubbles: Unusual stargazing experiences, often in remote locations with clear night skies.

Whether for one night or longer stays, these unique accommodations promise unforgettable memories!

 

Good to Know Before Booking

During peak season (June-August), advance booking is recommended.

In high-altitude areas like Cusco or Puno, prioritize accommodations with heating for optimal comfort.

 

💰 Daily Budget (per person)

Budget (€30-50)

Accommodation: Hostels or basic hospedajes (€10-15/night)

Meals: Menús del día (set meals) at local comedores (€3-6)

Transport: Local buses (€0.50) or shared colectivos

Mid-range (€70-100)

Accommodation: 3-star hotels (€40-60/night)

Meals: Restaurants (€15-25/meal)

Transport: Ride-hailing apps (Uber/Beat preferred)

Comfort (€150+)

Accommodation: 4-5 star hotels (€100+/night)

Experiences: Gourmet restaurants (€50-80)

 

Budget tips:

Eat at local markets for authentic, affordable meals.

Buy combo tickets for attractions (e.g., Cusco’s Boleto Turístico).

 

🌦 When to Go?

Dry season (May-Oct): Best for Andes/Amazon – sunny days, minimal rain.

Wet season (Nov-Apr): Ideal for coastal beaches.

Pack:

Warm jacket for high-altitude nights (0-10°C).

High-SPF sunscreen (SPF50+) – UV rays are intense at altitude.

 

🛡 Safety

Do:

✔ Photocopy important documents (store separately).

✔ Split cash between secure spots.

✔ Use hotel safes for valuables.

Avoid:

✖ Flaunting valuables in public.

✖ Unofficial taxis (especially at night).

 

Emergency numbers:

Tourist Police: 105

Medical emergencies: 116

 

🚍 Transport

Long-distance buses:

Choose reputable companies .

Book ahead in peak season.

Domestic flights:

Prices spike last-minute. Watch for sales (Black Days, etc.).

Local transport:

Ride-hailing apps > street taxis.

Avoid renting cars in cities (chaotic traffic).

 

💡 Pre-Departure Checklist

Health:

Vaccines: Yellow fever (Amazon requirement), Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid.

Pack altitude sickness meds (soroche) & anti-diarrheals.

Money:

Exchange rate: ~€1 = 4 PEN.

Withdraw cash at BBVA/Interbank ATMs (lower fees).

Exchange offices: Best rates in cities (avoid airports).

Notify your bank of travel dates to prevent card blocks.

Packing:

Layer clothing for climate swings.

Most hotels offer laundry (~€2-3/kg).

Sturdy walking shoes are a must.

Connectivity: Buy a prepaid SIM at the airport or local shops.

 

🍽 Food & Culture

Must-try: Ceviche, Lomo Saltado, Pisco Sour.

Markets: San Pedro (Cusco), Mercado de Surquillo (Lima).

 

♻ Ecotourism

Stay at eco-lodges in the Amazon.

Avoid single-use plastics.

 

🚫 Common Scams

Fake bills:

Memorize last 2 digits of large bills (50/100 soles). Scammers may swap them.

New bills are often counterfeited – check watermarks.

Unofficial taxis: Only take yellow-plated cabs with company logos.

Fake tour agencies: Verify their RUC (registration number).

Outdated coins: Check change for obsolete coins (e.g., old 1 sol coins).

Distraction thefts: Beware of "accidental" spills or street "helpers."

Hidden fees: Confirm total prices before paying at hotels/markets.

Politely negotiate: "¿Es el precio para turistas?" ("Is this the tourist price?").

For cards: Never let them leave your sight (skimming risk). Use cash for small purchases.

 

🚨 Emergency Contacts

    • French Embassy: Av. Arequipa 3415, San Isidro. Tel: +51 1 215 8400.

    • Belgian Embassy: Emergency line in Lima: +51 999 965 550.

    • Swiss Embassy: Av. Gral. Salaverry 3240, San Isidro. Tel: +51 1 264 03 05.

    • U.S. Embassy: Av. La Encalada cdra. 17 s/n, Santiago de Surco. Tel: +51 1 618 2000.

    • British Embassy: Torre Parque Mar, Av. José Larco 1301, Miraflores. Tel: +51 1 617 3000.

    • Portuguese Embassy: Calle. Esquilache 371, San Isidro 15073, 12e étage, San Isidro. Mail : lima@mne.pt

    • Brazilian Embassy: Av. José Pardo 850, Miraflores. Tel: +51 1 512 0830.

    • Spanish Embassy: Av. Jorge Basadre 498, San Isidro. Tel: +51 1 212 5155 (Consular emergencies: +51 995 655 898).

    • Travel insurance: Ensure it covers high-altitude activities (e.g., Cusco).

A savvy traveler is a safe traveler!

Peru offers a unique travel experience combining historical treasures, spectacular landscapes, and vibrant culture. To fully enjoy your stay:

 

• 📌 Use official transportation and certified agencies

• 💰 Handle cash carefully (counterfeit bills are common)

• 🗣️ Basic Spanish phrases will help with communication

• 🏨 Book your first accommodations in advance

• 📱 Keep digital copies of important documents

 

Our useful translation guide provides key phrases for stress-free travel.

Coming soon: We'll share our exclusive recommendations (tested hotels, authentic restaurants, reliable agencies, French-speaking guides, and trusted drivers) based on our firsthand experience.

 

A successful trip to Peru combines preparation, curiosity... and good local advice!