Travel Itinerary Peru: 9 Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey

Peru is one of South America’s most captivating countries—home to the majestic Andes, the Amazon Rainforest, the lost city of Machu Picchu, and vibrant colonial towns. Whether you’re backpacking solo, traveling with family, or going on a luxury adventure, planning the perfect travel itinerary for Peru requires forethought and flexibility. With vast geography and varied climates, even seasoned travelers can get caught off-guard.

In this guide, you’ll find 9 essential tips to help make your Peruvian journey smooth, stress-free, and unforgettable. These practical insights will help you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your time in this bucket-list destination.

1. Understand the Geography: Coast, Highlands, and Jungle

Peru can be divided into three primary geographical regions:

La Costa (the coast): Includes Lima, Paracas, and Nazca; warm, dry, and often humid.

La Sierra (the highlands): Home to Cusco, Arequipa, and Puno; expect cool temperatures and high altitudes.

La Selva (the jungle): Regions like Puerto Maldonado and Iquitos; hot, humid, and tropical.

Plan your travel itinerary in Peru with these zones in mind, as weather, altitude, and transportation vary dramatically between them.

Pro Tip: Start in lower-altitude areas and work your way up to allow for better acclimatization.

2. Prioritize Altitude Acclimatization

Altitude sickness is a real concern in cities like Cusco (3,400m), Puno (3,800m), and Arequipa (2,300m). Common symptoms include headaches, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

To ease the transition:

Spend a day or two acclimatizing before engaging in strenuous activities.

Drink coca tea, a traditional remedy.

Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol initially.

Take it easy on your first day.

If symptoms persist, consider taking acetazolamide (Diamox) or descending to a lower altitude.

3. Choose the Right Time of Year

Peru’s climate varies by region, but in general:

May to September is the dry season in the Andes and Amazon, ideal for trekking and sightseeing.

October to April brings the wet season, particularly in the mountains and jungle.

If visiting Machu Picchu, the dry season offers clearer views and fewer disruptions. However, coastal cities like Lima are sunnier during the wet season due to opposite weather patterns.

Best compromise: Travel in May or September for fewer crowds and balanced weather.

4. Book Key Attractions in Advance

Machu Picchu is the highlight of most travel itineraries in Peru—and for good reason. However, entry tickets, especially for Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain, sell out quickly.

Here’s what to book in advance:

Machu Picchu entry tickets (preferably weeks or months ahead)

Inca Trail treks (permits can sell out 4–6 months in advance)

Train tickets to Aguas Calientes (PeruRail or IncaRail)

Flights during high season (especially Lima to Cusco)

Pro Tip: Consider hiring a licensed guide ahead of time to ensure a smooth visit and deeper understanding of the ruins.

5. Pack Smart for Diverse Climates

Packing for Peru is tricky—you’ll likely encounter hot jungles, cold mountains, and wet valleys in a single trip. The key is layering.

Essentials include:

Breathable base layers

Fleece or insulated jacket

Waterproof jacket or poncho

Hiking shoes with grip

Quick-dry clothing

Sunscreen and insect repellent

Daypack for excursions

If visiting the Amazon, add long sleeves and pants for mosquito protection. For highland areas, include gloves and a warm hat.

6. Use Peru’s Reliable Ground Transportation

Getting around Peru involves a mix of buses, taxis, flights, and trains. Long-distance bus travel is popular and surprisingly comfortable.

Top bus companies include:

Cruz del Sur

Oltursa

Movil Tours

Flights are ideal for saving time on long legs, such as Lima to Cusco or Cusco to Puerto Maldonado. Always allow for delays when flying into the Andes.

Taxis and rideshares: Use apps like Uber or Beat in Lima and Cusco to avoid scams.

7. Respect Local Culture and Customs

Peru is a multi-ethnic nation with deep indigenous roots. Many locals speak Quechua or Aymara, particularly in rural areas. Respect is appreciated and rewarded.

Do:

Ask before taking photos of people

Learn a few phrases in Spanish or Quechua

Dress modestly in sacred sites

Support local artisans at markets

Don’t:

Haggle aggressively—prices are often fair

Touch artifacts or climb on ruins

Disrespect cultural ceremonies or festivals

Cultural etiquette goes a long way in making your journey smoother and more meaningful.

8. Stay Connected Safely

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes in cities, but rural areas may lack reliable internet. To stay connected:

Buy a SIM card from Claro, Movistar, or Entel (available at airports and shops).

Use offline maps (like Maps.me or Google Maps offline).

Enable two-factor authentication on apps and avoid logging into bank accounts on public networks.

Travel insurance with emergency medical and trip interruption coverage is strongly recommended. Check if it covers high-altitude regions.

9. Embrace Flexibility and the Unexpected

Even the best-laid plans can shift in Peru. Landslides, road delays, weather issues, and transport strikes can change your itinerary unexpectedly. Rather than stress, embrace the adventure.

Build in buffer days for major destinations and try not to over-schedule. Peru is best enjoyed when you have time to:

Wander a local market

Watch street performances in Cusco

Discover a hidden ruin off the beaten path

A little flexibility can turn detours into unforgettable memories.

10. Bonus Tip: Learn Basic Spanish

While English is spoken in tourist areas, basic Spanish skills go a long way. You’ll have better interactions, get better prices, and avoid misunderstandings.

Useful phrases:

Hola – Hello

Gracias – Thank you

¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?

¿Dónde está el baño? – Where is the bathroom?

No hablo español muy bien – I don’t speak Spanish very well

A small effort in language shows respect and fosters warmth from locals.

Conclusion: Planning Smart for a Richer Peruvian Experience

A well-planned travel itinerary in Peru doesn’t just help avoid travel mishaps—it enhances your entire experience. From packing the right gear to booking early and adjusting to altitude, these 9 essential tips give you the tools to enjoy everything Peru has to offer with confidence and ease.

Whether you’re marveling at ancient ruins, hiking scenic trails, or sampling fresh ceviche, a smooth trip allows you to focus on the magic around you. So prepare wisely, travel mindfully, and Peru will reward you with a journey of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need a visa to travel to Peru?

Most travelers, including those from the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia, do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. However, always check your country’s entry requirements before booking.

2. Is it safe to drink the water in Peru?

Tap water in Peru is not safe to drink. Always opt for bottled or filtered water, even when brushing your teeth. Many hotels provide filtered water for guests.

3. What currency is used, and can I use credit cards?

Peru’s currency is the Nuevo Sol (PEN). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist hubs, but always carry some cash for rural areas, markets, and transportation.

4. Can I visit Machu Picchu on my own, or do I need a guide?

You can visit Machu Picchu without a guide, but having one adds depth and context. Guides are required for certain hikes (like Huayna Picchu or Inca Trail), and hiring one at the entrance is easy.