The Top 10 Tips For Traveling Peru
Each country possesses its own unique idiosyncrasies and peculiarities that may be common knowledge to locals but come as news to first-time travelers. Here are a few insights that could have proven beneficial prior to your visit to Peru:
1. Embrace the Unconventional
While everyone recognizes Peru for its renowned wonder, Machu Picchu—one of the Seven Wonders of the World—there is much more to explore. Discover the allure of Colca Canyon, the second deepest canyon on Earth. Delve into the wonders of Lake Titicaca, situated over 4,000 meters above sea level, where you can witness the captivating floating islands and immerse yourself in indigenous Peru.
Unearth the hidden gems that elude most travelers: Huacachina, a desert oasis housing the largest sand dunes in South America, and the Paracas National Reserve, where the desert meets the sea, creating breathtaking landscapes.
2. Buses Outshine Air Travel
Despite the emerging budget airline industry in South America, the frequent flight delays and cancellations can quickly become exasperating. For most travelers in Peru, buses have become the preferred mode of long-distance travel due to the picturesque scenery and more affordable prices compared to even budget airlines.
Make the most of these extended bus rides by practicing your Spanish, catching up on reading, researching your next destination, and more. Many buses even offer luxurious seating, allowing you to relax throughout the journey.
To savor the beauty of Peru without rushing, consider a hop-on, hop-off service that grants you the freedom to spend as much time as you desire in each destination.
3. Patience is Key
Peru stands among the world's finest countries for travelers, boasting an incredibly diverse array of natural wonders and globally renowned cultural and historical landmarks. With such an abundance of offerings, it's easy to feel overwhelmed with the myriad of options available. The temptation to rush from place to place, trying to see everything, can be strong.
However, bear in mind that it's practically impossible to witness every remarkable facet this country has to offer in a single brief trip—oftentimes, even a lifetime may not suffice. With this in mind, the optimal approach is to allocate a significant amount of time to each destination, truly immersing yourself and getting to know it before moving on to the next.
Prioritize Preparation
Ensure you have all the essentials to make your trip the best it can be. It is advisable to pack comfortable shoes, an ample supply of water, sunscreen, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer. And, of course, don't forget your camera! Peru is teeming with magnificent sights and experiences, so make sure you don't miss a thing while staying comfortable throughout your journey.
5. Keep an Eye on the Weather
Despite Peru's relatively small size compared to the continental United States, it encompasses an incredible range of climates. Within its borders, you'll find arid deserts, sandy coastal beaches, chilly highlands, tropical rainforests, and more.
Although two destinations may seem geographically close on a map, they can have vastly different climates in reality. Hence, it's crucial to regularly check the weather when traveling to different regions of Peru to avoid torrential rain, mudslides, snow, and other potential hazards.
6. Indulge in the Traditional Lunch "Menu"
Peruvian cities and towns are replete with small restaurants offering a lunch "menu." Typically family-run establishments, these restaurants provide various meal options, often including a starter, drink, and even dessert. These menus hold great cultural significance in Peru, as lunch is considered the main meal for Peruvians. It's an excellent opportunity to savor homemade, truly traditional cuisine at an affordable price.
7. Explore Local Markets
Visiting local markets not only helps you save money while traveling but also allows you to immerse yourself in the authentic culture and experience the pulse of each city or town you visit. In smaller towns, particularly, you'll stumble upon unique items and artisanal products in the marketplaces.
Take the time to engage in conversations with the market stall owners and gain insights into their lives. We assure you that you won't regret it. This is the perfect way to discover the real Peru.
8. Compare and Select the Finest Tours
Peru is brimming with tourist agencies and transit companies, offering a wide range of options. These choices span from very budget-friendly alternatives (where safety and comfort may be compromised) to luxurious experiences that provide five-star comfort throughout. It's crucial to conduct thorough research before selecting your tour provider in Peru. An excellent resource for comparing different tours and adventures is Find Local Trips, a website that allows you to evaluate ratings and descriptions from numerous operators, ensuring a stress-free booking experience.
When it comes to booking treks in Peru, we highly recommend utilizing Find Local Trips, a booking and tour comparison website designed to help you find the most suitable tours and activities in South America.
9. Take Advantage of Free City Walking Tours
Most major cities, as well as some smaller ones, offer exceptional free walking tours. These tours serve as an excellent budget-friendly means to explore the cities while benefiting from insider knowledge of the streets and providing opportunities to meet fellow travelers.
For a wonderful way to explore Lima's historic center, we recommend the Lima Walking Tour. Simply head to the Tourist Information Center located at Avenida Jose Larco 799, Miraflores, where tour groups gather at 10:15 am every day except Sunday.
10. Conduct Thorough Research
Ensure that you don't miss out on any sights or experiences you wish to encounter. Peru offers an abundance of treks, hikes, archaeological sites, indigenous cultures, beaches, and culinary delights. With more than a lifetime's worth of activities, make the most of your time in this captivating country. Whether you venture off the beaten path or follow the well-trodden trail, the choice is yours.
Peru eagerly awaits your arrival, promising a grand adventure—be it savoring some of the world's finest cuisine, exploring ancient civilizations, immersing yourself in the local communities, or admiring the wildlife of the mighty Amazon Rainforest.
