A lifetime might not be enough to discover all Peru has to offer. Converging some of the most spectacularly varied landscapes on the planet, this “megadiverse” country boasts a vast tropical rainforest and staggering spectrum of altitudes and climates.
Although most foreigners and Peruvians themselves associate Peru with the Andes, some two-thirds of the national territory is Amazon jungle – an area teeming with life.
Meanwhile, the coast is one of the world’s driest deserts, and home to a dazzling display of marine species, including humpback whales that you can sometimes see breach from shore along the waters of the Pacific Ocean.
As if Peru’s natural bounty wasn’t enough, the country displays a lengthy list of archaeological and architectural gems. Machu Picchu, the country’s best known treasure, is one of many others that are more than worth a visit. They span a myriad of pre-Inca civilizations and the colonial period when the Spaniards put up breath-taking churches and mansions across the country.
The city of Arequipa is nestled safely between three surrounding volcanoes and is considered a perfect base to start exploring the southern part of Peru. While the city center offers delicious gastronomic highlights and legendary colonial architecture, the surrounding valley allows for more adventurous excursions thanks to its year-round sunny climate.
Best time to visit: any time
Climate: Sunny days year-round, chilly nights. The rainy season (December to March) may bring sporadic rains, but not necessarily every day.
Yearly temperatures: Min: 5.2°C – 41.4°F | Max: 24.7°C – 76.5°F
Altitude: 2,335 m a.s.l. – 7,660 ft a.s.l.
The Colca Valley is the place to be if you want to spot magnificent condors soaring in the winds. As the second deepest canyon in the world and one of the most spectacular ones, it flaunts fantastic natural landscapes and unspoiled local villages on all sides. It is the perfect place to discover the real Peru.
Best time to visit: March to June
Climate: Sunny days, but chilly nights. The rainy season (December to March) may bring sporadic rains, but not necessarily every day.
Yearly temperatures: Min: -4.8°C – 23.3°F | Max: 16.9°C – 62.4°F
Altitude: 3,655 m a.s.l. – 11,985 ft a.s.l.
The glistening waters of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, have inspired myths and legends. Its time-forgotten islands of Uros and Taquile still pass down sacred traditions through the generations. As the birthplace of the Inca and the pre-Columbian Tiahuanaco culture, the region has more than 250 typical colorful dances representing characters of the many local legends.
Best time to visit: April to October
Climate: Sunny days, but chilly nights. The rainy season (December to March) may bring sporadic rains, but not necessarily every day.
Yearly temperatures : Min: -7.5°C – 18.5°F | Max: 18.8°C – 65.8°F
Altitude: 3,810 m a.s.l. – 12,500 ft a.s.l.
The Sacred Valley is the ideal starting point to travel on to Machu Picchu and Cusco thanks to its moderate altitude, pleasant climate, beautiful scenery, picturesque villages, and friendly local people. Plentiful original Inca sites, local artisan markets, and even hiking or soft adventure activities ensure that the valley caters to every taste.
Best time to visit: April and May
Climate: Sunny days, but chilly nights. The rainy season (December to March) may bring sporadic heavy rains, but not necessarily every day.
Yearly temperatures: Min: 4°C – 39.2°F | Max: 24°C – 75.2°F
Altitude: 2,765 m a.s.l. – 9,075 ft a.s.l.
Covered by a lush blanket of cloud forest, this mysterious Inca citadel is widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest archaeological sites. No trip to Peru would be complete without visiting Machu Picchu. Hike the Inca Trail or travel by train in old-fashioned luxury to get there.
Best time to visit: April to October
Climate: Tropical cloud forest with rainy season from December until March
Yearly temperatures: Min: 12°C – 54°F | Max: 24°C – 75°F
Altitude: 2,430 m a.s.l. – 7,970 ft a.s.l.
Cusco was the ancient capital and spiritual heart of the Inca Empire, as well as an important commercial center during the colonial period. While strolling its cobblestone streets, you will see both marvelous Inca architecture and Andean Baroque structures. Today, Cusco is also known for its extraordinary handicrafts and is home to some of Peru’s most talented textile and ceramic artists.
Best time to visit: April to October
Climate: Sunny days, but chilly nights. Rainy season (December to March) may bring sporadic heavy rains, but not necessarily every day.
Yearly temperatures: Min: 0.2°C – 32.9°F | Max: 20.9°C – 69.6°F
Altitude: 3,400 m a.s.l. – 11,150 ft a.s.l.
