Peru is located in South America, being one of the 13 countries that make up this continent. It borders the Pacific Ocean to the west and shares borders with Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil and Bolivia to the east, and Chile to the south. With more than one million square kilometers in size, the country is characterized by its geographic diversity, which traditionally includes the coastal, Andean, and jungle regions.

The capital of Peru is Lima, also known as the City of Kings. Founded on January 18, 1535, by Francisco Pizarro, this metropolis is the economic, political, and cultural center of the country. With a population exceeding 9 million inhabitants, Lima is a vibrant city with a rich history and a fascinating blend of colonial and modern architecture.

This city has a rich history dating back to ancient pre-Hispanic cultures that inhabited the region since ancestral times. Later, it witnessed the process of Peruvian independence and currently plays a crucial role in the country’s economy.

According to the United States Embassy, Peru is classified with 2 out of 4 points regarding safety for travelers. Although the country has some areas that may present risks, popular tourist destinations such as Lima, Machu Picchu, Puno, Ica, Iquitos, Manu National Park, among others, offer a safe environment for visitors. It is important to be informed about necessary precautions and to avoid certain remote and sparsely populated areas.

The official language of Peru is Spanish, spoken by the vast majority of the population. However, Peru is a multilingual and multicultural country, where various indigenous languages are also spoken.

According to data from the Ministry of Culture of Peru, the indigenous languages with the highest number of speakers are:

Quechua: With approximately 3.6 million speakers, it is the most widely spoken indigenous language in Peru. It has different regional variants such as Ancash Quechua, Ayacucho Quechua, Cuzco Quechua, among others.
Aymara: Around 443 thousand speakers, mainly in the southern region of the country such as Puno and Tacna.
Amazonian languages: In the Peruvian Amazon, more than 50 indigenous languages are spoken, among the most representative are Asháninka (88 thousand speakers), Awajún (55 thousand speakers), Shipibo-Konibo (27 thousand speakers), and Matsigenka (12 thousand speakers).

It is important to highlight that Peru officially recognizes 47 indigenous languages, in addition to Spanish and other migrant languages such as Cantonese Chinese, Arabic, among others.

In urban areas, the use of Spanish predominates, while in rural Andean and Amazonian areas, it is more common to find speakers of indigenous languages, often as a mother tongue.

Peru is in a single time zone, the official time of Peru or UTC-5. There are no time changes for daylight saving time or other seasonal adjustments. This means that the same time applies throughout the Peruvian territory throughout the year, facilitating the coordination of internal trips without having to worry about time differences between regions.

However, when traveling from Peru to neighboring countries, it is important to consider the time differences:

Chile: -1 hour difference (UTC-4 or -3 with daylight saving time)
Ecuador: No time difference (UTC-5)
Colombia: +1 hour difference (UTC-4)
Brazil: +2 hours difference (UTC-3)
Bolivia: No time difference (UTC-5)

This stability of the single time zone in Peru throughout the year simplifies the planning of itineraries and trips within the country. But it is important to adjust the clocks when crossing borders with neighboring nations.

Peru is globally recognized for its astonishing natural megadiversity, ancient cultural richness, and invaluable historical legacy.

In addition to Machu Picchu, Peru captivates with incomparable and globally recognized cuisine, masterfully blending indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences in iconic dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, ají de gallina, and many more.
In the southern region, the natural beauty of the Huacachina dunes and the mysterious and enigmatic Nazca Lines awaken the imagination. While in Puno, the mythical Lake Titicaca and its indigenous floating islands enchant visitors.
The Peruvian Amazon rainforest, the world’s lung, offers the opportunity to explore unique biodiversity in national reserves such as Tambopata, Pacaya-Samiria, and Manu, paradises of flora and fauna. In contrast, the imposing Andes dazzle with snow-capped mountains, the iconic Rainbow Mountain in Vinicunca, and the impressive natural and archaeological landscapes of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, full of color and Andean tradition.
Peru also seduces with epic trekking routes such as the legendary Inca Trail, vibrant and cheerful colonial cities like Arequipa “The White City”, imposing fortresses like Kuélap in Amazonas, incredibly beautiful natural reserves like Paracas, and much more.

In Peru, you can immerse yourself in a variety of unforgettable experiences that go beyond conventional tourism. From exploring the archaeological wonders of the ancient Inca civilization in places like the imposing citadel of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, to venturing into the lush Amazon rainforest to observe its impressive biodiversity of flora and fauna, including exciting fishing tours and birdwatching.

Another unique experience is flying over the enigmatic Nazca Lines, fascinating ancient geoglyphs that can only be fully appreciated from the air. In contrast, you can delve into the rich history and living culture of colonial cities like Lima and Cusco, delighting in their exquisite Peruvian cuisine, recognized worldwide.

If you seek more extreme thrills, you can opt for activities such as whitewater rafting or trekking through stunning Andean landscapes. Or, relax by sailing on the peaceful Grau Sea and enjoying the spectacle of nature on the islands and coves of the Peruvian coast.

In Peru, you can immerse yourself in a variety of unforgettable experiences, but it’s crucial to prepare adequately according to the climate and conditions of each region.

If you’re traveling to the Andean highlands like Cusco, Puno, or Arequipa, it’s recommended to bring warm clothing such as wool caps, gloves, and a good waterproof jacket, especially during the rainy season between November and March. For coastal cities like Lima, where the climate is mostly warm and arid but humid due to the influence of the Pacific Ocean, pack lightweight clothing, a hat, and stay well hydrated.

In the Peruvian Amazon rainforest, in cities like Puerto Maldonado, Iquitos, or Pucallpa, prepare for a humid and rainy tropical climate. Bring rubber boots, sandals, flashlights, a waterproof jacket, and a hat to protect you from the sun and sudden rain.

In addition to appropriate clothing, the most important thing is to plan ahead, especially if you’re going to visit tourist icons like Machu Picchu or the Inca Trail, which require reservations several months in advance. This way, you can experience Peru’s unique offerings comfortably and safely.

In Peru, the official currency is the Nuevo Sol. Banknotes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 soles, while coins are available in values of 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, and 5 soles.

If you haven’t exchanged your soles before arriving in the country, it’s recommended to do so at exchange houses near hotels or plazas. Additionally, you can withdraw money directly from ATMs, which are common in the historic center of major cities.

It’s important to note that some commercial establishments only accept payments in soles, so it’s suggested to carry at least 150 soles in cash to cover expenses such as services, meals, or tips. This will ensure a smoother experience during your stay in Peru.

Inkayni Peru Tours DOES NOT arrange the purchase of tickets for international flights, but we understand that buying international air tickets can be a complex process. Although we cannot directly assist you with this arrangement, we are here to offer reliable alternatives and advice for purchasing your domestic or internal flight tickets.

If you’re looking for options for your international flights, we recommend considering reputable and reliable online flight booking platforms such as Expedia, Kayak, or Skyscanner. These platforms usually offer a wide range of flight options and competitive prices.

Regarding domestic or internal flights within Peru, we are ready to assist you in purchasing your tickets and provide you with advice on the best available options. We work with reputable local airlines and can ensure competitive rates and quality service.

If you are a citizen of a South American country such as Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, or Uruguay, you can enter Peru for tourist purposes with just your valid national identification document or ID.
For most other countries, including Central America (except Cuba, El Salvador, Haiti, and Nicaragua), North America (Canada, the United States, and Mexico), and Spain, a tourist visa is not required, but a passport with a minimum validity of 6 months is necessary.
However, if you are a citizen of Cuba, El Salvador, Haiti, or Nicaragua, you will need to apply for a tourist visa before traveling to Peru.

It is important to check the updated requirements according to your nationality, as immigration rules may change. But in general, the vast majority of foreign tourists can enter Peru without a visa, simply by presenting their valid passport upon arrival in the country.

It is estimated that Machu Picchu was built around the 15th century. Although the name of the responsible architect is not recorded, it is believed that the citadel was erected during the heyday of the empire, during the reign of Emperor Pachacuti.

Although there are no mandatory vaccines to enter Peru, it is recommended to take certain precautions depending on your travel plans within the country.

If you plan to visit the Peruvian Amazon rainforest or some rural areas, it is highly recommended to get vaccinated against yellow fever before traveling. This viral disease is transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes and can be severe.
Furthermore, regardless of your destination in Peru, it is important to be up to date with routine vaccines such as tetanus and hepatitis A. These protect against diseases that, while preventable, are still present.
Other vaccines such as influenza, typhoid fever, hepatitis B, or rabies may be considered depending on your specific activities and the advice of a healthcare professional.

Although it is not obligatory, acquiring travel insurance before visiting Peru is a popular option among many tourists. This is because it is common to experience altitude sickness in cities such as Cusco, Puno, or Huaraz, as well as problems related to the consumption of contaminated food and possible accidents.

Having insurance coverage provides you with a sense of security while traveling. In case of any unfortunate situation, such as illness or accident, you will have the peace of mind that you will receive immediate medical attention.

The best time to visit Peru depends on your personal preferences and the places you want to explore. Each season has its charm and offers unique experiences in this diverse and exciting country.

If you are looking for adventures in the Andes and the Amazon, the ideal months are from May to August. During this time, the weather is clear and sunny, perfect for exploring the majestic mountains and lush jungle. Additionally, fascinating festivals are celebrated, adding color and culture to your trip. The ancient Inca capital of Cusco and the nearby Sacred Valley are prominent destinations during this time, with their impressive landscapes and Inca ruins. It is also the perfect time for popular treks like the Inca Trail, although keep in mind that these places can be quite crowded.
In June, a series of fabulous festivals take place in Cusco and other regional cities, with the most notable being Inti Raymi, an Inca celebration of the winter solstice.
In the Amazon basin, July is the dry season, which makes it easier to observe wildlife and engage in water sports such as rafting on rivers like the Tambopata. From September to November is ideal for those who prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy peaceful walks in nature. It is the low season in the Andes and the Amazon, meaning you can enjoy hiking trails with few tourists and observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
It is also a good time to visit the Peruvian coast, as the weather becomes more pleasant and the beaches less crowded. November is especially good for surfing on Peru’s best beaches.
March to May is perfect for budget-conscious travelers and festival lovers. Although Holy Week can be crowded, the rest of the season is quieter and more accessible. It’s a good time to enjoy colorful festivities and cultural celebrations across the country. Additionally, the weather is pleasant on the coast, and the vegetation in the Andes begins to bloom, creating stunning landscapes to explore.

The climate in Peru is as diverse as its landscapes and varies by region and season of the year. On the coast, humid mornings and a warm thermal sensation prevail, with light rains throughout the year. In the inter-Andean valleys, moderate temperatures are enjoyed, favoring the cultivation of a wide variety of vegetables.

The Andes, especially above 3,000 meters above sea level, have a cold climate that intensifies with altitude. Here, it is common to find cities established at these elevations, where rivers and ravines descend from the heights, creating a unique mountainous landscape.

The Peruvian Amazon, on the other hand, is always hot and humid, with especially humid mornings and sudden, intense rains throughout the year. This lush region is marked by its tropical rainforest and unique biodiversity.

The Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex is located at an average altitude of approximately 2430 meters above sea level (7972 feet). However, within this Inca citadel, there are several points of great importance, including:

Huayna Picchu Mountain: It is the steepest mountain in Machu Picchu and rises to 2720 meters above sea level (8293 feet).
Machu Picchu Mountain: Located at 3082 meters above sea level (10,111 feet), it is the highest mountain within the archaeological complex.
Huchuy Picchu Mountain: Known as the little sister of the mountains, its summit reaches 2497 meters above sea level (8192 feet).

Peruvian cuisine, undoubtedly, ranks among the most diverse and exquisite in the world. By blending influences from indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian cuisines, it has managed to create dishes that delight even the most discerning palates. Below is a list of some emblematic dishes and beverages of Peruvian cuisine:

• Ceviche: This star of Peruvian cuisine consists of raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with red onion, chili pepper, cilantro, and other ingredients. It is served with sweet potato, corn, yucca, or cancha.
• Lomo saltado: Blending Chinese cuisine with Peruvian, this dish offers sautéed pieces of meat (usually beef) with onion, tomato, yellow chili pepper, and spices, served over rice and accompanied by French fries.
• Pollo a la brasa: One of the most popular dishes, it consists of grilled rotisserie chicken marinated in spices, accompanied by French fries, salad, and criolla sauce.
• Aji de gallina: Comforting and tasty, this dish offers shredded chicken in a creamy sauce made with yellow chili pepper, bread, milk, and nuts, served with rice and boiled potatoes.
• Causa rellena: A delicious cold preparation that features layers of yellow potato puree seasoned with lime and yellow chili pepper, stuffed with a mixture of tuna, chicken, avocado, or other ingredients, and decorated with hard-boiled egg, olives, and pepper.
• Anticuchos: Skewers of beef marinated in a sauce of panca chili pepper and spices, grilled and served with boiled potatoes, corn, and chili sauce.
• Rocoto relleno: Peruvian spicy peppers stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, onion, olives, hard-boiled egg, and cheese, baked and served with potatoes and cheese sauce.

Regarding beverages:

• Pisco sour: Peru’s iconic cocktail, made with pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and Angostura bitters. It is refreshing and tangy, enjoyed throughout the country.
• Chicha morada: Refreshing drink made from cooked purple corn with fruits and spices, sweetened with sugar and flavored with cinnamon and cloves. It is traditional and possesses antioxidant properties.

Lima, also recognized as the capital of Peru, is the first point of arrival when entering the country by air and stands out for several reasons:

• Cultural Heritage: Lima boasts an invaluable cultural heritage reflected in its colonial architecture, historic churches, plazas, and cobblestone streets. The historic center of Lima has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, recognizing its architectural and historical richness.
• Gastronomy: The city has become the gastronomic capital of Latin America due to the diversity and excellence of Peruvian cuisine. Internationally renowned restaurants such as Central, Maido, and Astrid y Gastón have significantly contributed to positioning Lima as a top gastronomic destination, offering a wide variety of unique flavors and culinary experiences.
• Beaches: Lima enjoys an extensive coastline bathed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean. Although the waters can be cold, the city’s beaches are popular among locals and tourists looking to relax and enjoy water sports such as surfing and paragliding.
• Culture and Entertainment: Lima offers a wide range of cultural and entertainment activities for all tastes and ages. From visits to museums and art galleries showcasing the rich history and culture of the country, to theater events, festivals, and concerts celebrating the city’s cultural diversity. Lima’s nightlife is also vibrant, with a wide variety of bars, nightclubs, and nightlife venues where you can enjoy live music, dancing, and entertainment into the early hours of the morning.

Peru, a mega diverse country, offers you a wide variety of landscapes, cultures, and unique experiences, standing out for its tourist and cultural attractions. Below is a list of some of its most well-known destinations:

• Machu Picchu: This destination is the most famous in Peru and South America, renowned for its impressive architecture and historical richness.
• Cusco: Known as the Ancient Capital of the Inca Empire, this city is bursting with history, culture, customs, and traditions. Its beautiful cobblestone streets, colonial plazas, and archaeological sites make it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
• Lake Titicaca: This navigable lake is the highest in the world and is home to peculiar floating islands built by local inhabitants, known as Uros, and the Island of Taquile. It is a cultural destination that you cannot miss.
• Arequipa (Colca Canyon): Known as the White City, Arequipa stands out for its Spanish colonial architecture. Additionally, it is home to the impressive Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, which offers beautiful views of landscapes and the possibility of spotting condors in flight.
• Peruvian Amazon: The Amazon rainforest is a must-visit destination that offers great ecological diversity. It is ideal for birdwatchers, boat rides along the rivers, and cultural interaction with the various indigenous communities.
• Nazca (Nazca Lines): Fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines and discover the enigmatic geoglyphs that stretch across the desert.
• Huascarán National Park: Located in the Andes Mountains, this stunning park is home to incredible biodiversity, with animals such as monkeys, parrots, caimans, and jaguars.

The famous Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is located in the Cusco department, specifically in the province of Urubamba, about 112 kilometers northwest. It is situated in the Andes Mountains, in the area known as the eyebrow of the Amazon rainforest. The nearest city is Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, which can only be accessed by train from Ollantaytambo or by hiking the Inca Trail from Km 82.

Planning your next adventure in Peru shouldn’t be complicated or exhausting. Here are some key points to consider:

• Initial research: Take time to research the places you would like to explore in Peru and the best time of year to visit them.
• Budget: Set a spending limit that includes flights, accommodation, meals, internal transportation, additional activities, and souvenirs.
• Travel insurance: Although not mandatory in Peru, having travel insurance will provide you with the necessary peace of mind and security during your stay.
• Preparation: Make a list of the essentials you will need during your trip and pack lightly and efficiently.
• Cultural respect: Learn about the customs and traditions of the different localities you plan to visit in Peru and deeply respect their culture and heritage.
• Choice of travel agency: To simplify your planning, consider opting for a trusted agency. Inkayni Peru Tours, for example, has a wide presence throughout the country and offers personalized services tailored to your interests and preferences, guaranteeing you an exceptional travel experience.

Currently, the only and closest airport to Machu Picchu is the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. This airport is located about 4 kilometers from the historic center of the city, in the southern area. However, the construction of an airport in Chinchero is underway, which, if completed, would become the closest airport to Machu Picchu.

The city of Cusco offers a wide variety of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and traveler preferences. Some options include:

• Santiago Neighborhood: Located about 12 minutes from the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, this neighborhood offers hotels and accommodations with simpler and more economical rooms.
• Tullumayo Street: About 10 minutes from downtown, this area features charming boutique hotels and hostels, providing a quieter experience.
• Sacsayhuaman: Located on the outskirts of the city, here you will find luxury hotels and resorts with panoramic views of Cusco and the surrounding mountains.
• San Blas: Known as the artist’s neighborhood, it is about 5 minutes from the main square and offers a mix of boutique hotels, hostels, and accommodations with their own charm.
• Santa Ana Neighborhood: This neighborhood, located in the upper area of the historic center, offers stunning views of the city and various accommodation options, such as hostels, 3-star hotels, and luxury hotels.
• Historic Center (Plaza de Armas): The best option if you want to be close to the main attractions, restaurants, and shops. In this area, you will find a wide range of hotels of different categories, from budget to luxury.

Some of the famous luxury hotels in Cusco include the Hotel Monasterio, a former Renaissance monastery converted into a luxury hotel. The Palacio del Inka from the Luxury Collection chain is also very popular for its colonial design and high-end services. Other highlights include the JW Marriott El Convento Cusco, the boutique mansion El Marqués, and the Hotel Aranwa Cusco Boutique.

In general terms, the dry season (from May to October) is considered the best time to travel to Cusco and undertake any type of tour. During this period, the weather is very stable, with sunny days and no rain, making it ideal for exploring numerous places without worrying about weather complications.

On the other hand, the rainy season (from November to April) also has its charm. Although the weather can be variable and rain can appear at any time, many travelers choose to visit Cusco during this period due to the lower influx of tourists. This allows you to enjoy the various attractions and tourist services in a quieter and more intimate way. Additionally, this season is preferred by nature lovers, as the flora and fauna flourish thanks to the precipitation.

The Classic Inca Trail is the most popular and best-selling version of trekking routes to Machu Picchu. The classic version of the Inca Trail is 4 days and 3 nights, starting at kilometer 82 (Piscacucho) and traversing a variety of landscapes, including cloud forests and ancient Inca sites exclusive to this route, until finally reaching the Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex. This experience offers the opportunity to enjoy delicious meals, comfortable campsites, and long hikes that will test your physical endurance.

Currently, there are three versions of the Inca Trail, each with different durations and characteristics:

• Classic Inca Trail: With a duration of 4 days and 3 nights, it is the most popular and best-selling route. From km 82 to Machu Picchu, it offers a complete itinerary to visit the highlights of the trail.
• Short Inca Trail: This version lasts 2 days and 1 night, starting at km 104. It allows you to travel a significant part of the final stretch of the Inca Trail until reaching Machu Picchu.
• Extended version of the Inca Trail: Although it lasts 5 days and 4 nights, it follows the same route as the Classic Inca Trail. However, it offers a more leisurely and relaxed experience, ideal for travelers with older adults or children.

To book the Inca Trail, it is necessary to do so through an authorized travel agency to operate this hiking route, such as Inkayni Peru Tours. The steps to follow are as follows:

1. Choose a date and check availability with our sales agents.
2. Make the required deposit or payment once the date is confirmed.
3. Done! Now you have your permit to undertake this great adventure.

The first thing to know is that before embarking on any trek such as the Inca Trail, it is recommended to spend 1 or 2 days in the city of Cusco for proper acclimatization. Many hotels in Cusco offer luggage storage services while travelers undertake the treks. In case your hotel does not offer this service, Inkayni

Peru Tours will take care of safeguarding your belongings in their private warehouses, thus guaranteeing the protection and care of all your items.

Both options offer unique and different experiences. Some points to consider are:

Popularity:

• The Inca Trail is the most popular and globally recognized route to reach Machu Picchu.
• The Salkantay Trek is a less crowded but equally impressive alternative.

History and culture:

• The Inca Trail allows you to explore numerous Inca archaeological sites along the route.
• The Salkantay Trek focuses more on natural landscapes than on archaeological remains.

Duration and difficulty:

• Both routes last between 4-5 days.
• They involve 6 to 9 hours of hiking per day.
• The Salkantay Trek reaches a maximum altitude of 6,271 meters above sea level at the Salkantay snow-capped peak.
• The Inca Trail reaches 4,215 meters above sea level at the Warmiwañusqa Pass.

Natural landscapes:

The Salkantay Trek traverses a greater variety of environments, from snowy mountains to the Amazon jungle.
The Inca Trail also covers different altitudes, but the contrast is not as noticeable.

Restrictions:

The Inca Trail requires hiring an official guide and equipment, as well as booking permits in advance.
The Salkantay Trek can be done on your own or with an agency, without the need for mandatory permits (however, it is always advisable to go with an agency or guide who knows the route to avoid setbacks or accidents).

The Short Inca Trail was born as a great alternative to the high demand for this trekking route and also became the favorite of those travelers who want to explore part of this trail but do not have enough time and also to avoid the physical complications of the classic route. It starts at Km 104 and allows you to enjoy the final section of the Classic Inca Trail and the archaeological sites of Wiñay Wayna and Inti Punku.

Currently, there are two panoramic trains that operate to Machu Picchu from the city of Cusco and the Ollantaytambo train station:

• Vistadome (PeruRail): The Vistadome train offers a panoramic experience with large windows and a glass roof, allowing you to enjoy the stunning views of the landscape during the journey to Machu Picchu. In addition, the Vistadome train has onboard entertainment, including live Peruvian music and a small runway for cultural shows. This train operates from both the Poroy train station (near Cusco) and the Ollantaytambo train station.
• Expedition (Inca Rail): The Expedition train also offers panoramic windows to enjoy the landscape during the journey to Machu Picchu. Although not as luxurious as the Vistadome, it remains a comfortable and convenient option for travelers who want a scenic experience. The Expedition train mainly operates from the Ollantaytambo train station.

This decision is up to you; there are treks that offer a much more connected route with nature, other routes that offer something much more historical, or routes that complement with adventure activities.

Now it’s up to you to decide which one best suits you. The Cusco region is extremely varied, so make the most of it.

An alternative trek is a different option than usual, in this case, a different route than the Inca Trail. In the Cusco region, you can find endless trekking routes that give you the opportunity to discover new unconventional places. The most popular among travelers are the following routes:

• Inca Jungle
• Salkantay trek
• Lares trek
• Ausangate trek
• Choquequirao trek

Something you should take note of is that to undertake a trek, you must equip yourself properly. Pack non-perishable food, clothing with quick-drying and thermal technology, trekking shoes, camping equipment, and sun protection items.
While this may be heavy, they are essential elements for the trek. To lighten your load, you can hire our services. Inkayni Peru Tours will take care of all the logistics so you can just focus on fully enjoying the experience.

Machu Picchu is located in the high jungle of Cusco, at 2,430 meters above sea level, with a humid tropical climate. The average annual temperature is 17 °C (62.6 °F). There are two distinct seasons: the rainy season, from November to March, with more rainfall and maximum temperatures of up to 25 °C (77 °F) and minimums of 12 °C (53.6 °F), and the dry season, from April to October, with sunny days and less rain, but cold nights, with maximum temperatures of up to 27 °C (80.6 °F) and minimums of 8 °C (46.4 °F).

The city of Cusco has a temperate climate, characterized by cold nights and sunny days for most of the year. Like Machu Picchu, two well-defined seasons are distinguished: the rainy season (from November to March) and the dry season (from April to October).

During the rainy season, the average maximum temperature reaches 22 °C (71.6 °F), while the minimum is around 5 °C (41 °F). In contrast, in the dry season, the maximum rises to 23 °C (73.4 °F), while the minimum can drop to 0 °C (32 °F) in some cases.

Cusco is a truly privileged region in Peru, full of impressive attractions that go far beyond the iconic Machu Picchu. Here are some of the best places you can’t miss:

• Sacred Valley of the Incas – This fertile valley is home to charming colonial towns like Pisac, famous for its craft market, and Ollantaytambo with impressive Inca ruins.
  Maras Salt Mines – These ancient salt ponds created by the Incas are a stunning visual spectacle in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
• Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) – This striated mountain with vibrant colors near Cusco is one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world.
• Humantay Lake – The incredible turquoise lake at the foot of the Humantay snow-capped peak is a must-visit hike with breathtaking views.
• City of Cusco – The city itself is a colonial gem built on Inca remains, with attractions like the Plaza de Armas, the ruins of Sacsayhuamán, and the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas.
• Moray and Immense Terraces – These impressive Inca archaeological sites with circular terraces were ancient agricultural centers.

Other highlights include the ruins of Tambomachay, Puca Pucará, Qenqo, the Pisac market, the town of Chinchero, and the Inca hanging bridge of Q’eswachaka. Cusco has so much to offer beyond Machu Picchu.

Of course! Many travelers want to try Peruvian cuisine and what better way to do it than by participating in its preparation and tasting them with that unique touch that you will only find in these regions. If this is your plan, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our agents at Inkayni Peru Tours will be happy to assist you through our online chat or by writing to our email info@inkayniperitours.com.

The popular San Pedro market earns that spot, located just 4 blocks from Cusco’s Main Square. There you can find a wide variety of handicrafts, clothing made from alpaca and other fabrics, delicious local and traditional foods, and fresh products consumed by the local population. All this is offered with the warm attention and kindness

that characterizes the people of Cusco, making a visit to this market a charming experience for any traveler.

Other interesting markets include the artisanal market of Pisac in the Sacred Valley, the market in the San Blas neighborhood, or the Artisan Market of Cusco on Av. Sol.

Peru is a country rich in culture and ancient traditions. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to experience a wide variety of cultural activities and festivals throughout its territory. Here are some of the most outstanding ones:

In Cusco, the cradle of the Inca Empire:

• Inti Raymi or Feast of the Sun: One of the most important celebrations in the Andean world. It takes place every June 24th and commemorates the beginning of the Inca New Year, with impressive representations of ancestral rituals in the main square of Cusco.
• Cusco Carnivals: Between February and March, these colorful carnivals are celebrated with traditional dances, parades, and the typical game with water and foam.
• Corpus Christi: In May or June, a religious procession takes place with impressive flower carpets along the streets of the historic center.

In Puno:

• Festival of the Virgin of Candelaria: In February, homage is paid to the Virgin with typical dances like the Dance of the Masks Sikus.

In Lima:

• Procession of the Lord of Miracles: In October, a revered image travels the streets in a massive procession.
• Festival of the Lord of Miracles: In November, religious celebrations and cultural activities are held.

In the Amazon:

• Feast of San Juan: In June, indigenous communities celebrate ancestral rituals with dances and traditional drinks.

Additionally, you will find craft markets, art exhibitions, music, and folkloric dance in many cities throughout the year. Peru’s cultural richness will provide you with unique and unforgettable experiences.

If you have booked our services at Inkayni Peru Tours, a comfortable van will be waiting to take you to your hotel, taking a tour through the historic center of Cusco. If you have not booked our services, you can choose to take a taxi, a common mode of transportation in the city. Another alternative is to use public transportation, although this does not always offer the comfort that tourists seek.

For an authentic local lodging experience in Andean communities, an excellent option is to opt for community-based tourism. This type of tourism allows you to immerse yourself in the daily life and traditions of the inhabitants, staying in their own homes adapted in a humble yet welcoming way. Here are some proposals for community-based tourism in different Andean communities:

• Community-Based Tourism in Mullakas – Misminay (Cusco): This experience will take you to the community of Mullakas, in the district of Misminay near Cusco. There you will live with local families, participating in their agricultural tasks, learning about their ancestral customs, and enjoying delicious typical dishes prepared by themselves. You will spend an unforgettable night around a bonfire, listening to legends and sharing unique moments.
• Tour to Lake Titicaca and the Islands of Uros, Amantani, and Taquile (Puno): In this 2-day tour, you will experience staying with families on the islands of Lake Titicaca. You will start by visiting the artificial islands of the Uros, continue to the island of Amantaní where you will live with a local family, sharing their customs and ancient traditions. Finally, you will visit Taquile Island, famous for its textiles and vibrant culture.
• Community-Based Tourism in the Community of Amaru (Cusco): Located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, near Pisac, the community of Amaru will open the doors of their homes for you to get to know their peasant way of life up close. You will participate in activities such as planting, harvesting, weaving, and even food preparation. This cultural immersion will allow you to appreciate the Andean roots in a very authentic way.

Like every traveler, we always seek to have a night out and experience the nightlife of each region. Here are some excellent spots where you can go with family and/or friends:

• In the city of Cusco, the best places are Ukukus, the Pisco Museum, La Chupiteria, Rosso Bar, Mythology, and Mama Africa.
• In the city of Lima, the best points for a night out are Bar Crawl Lima, Sargento Pimienta, Del Carajo, Vale Todo Downtown, and Esquina Wine Bar.
  The places I mention are highly recommended by travelers, according to reviews on TripAdvisor and Google.

For you, the traveler looking for a package to connect even more with nature, there are travel packages to the jungle such as in Iquitos and Madre de Dios, very popular regions thanks to their mega diversity in flora and fauna. If this is your plan, you can contact our agents who can help you create a personalized tour package.

Of course! If you’re a traveler looking for a more intimate service, Inkayni Peru Tours also offers private trips, specially designed so you can share this experience with your closest friends and/or family. Don’t forget to contact our travel agents, who will be delighted to assist you.

We have a super simple and interactive platform where you just have to choose the travel package of your preference and click the “book” button. This will take you to a small form that you must complete to be able to pay for your trip. You decide whether to make the full payment or a deposit and complete it upon your arrival in Cusco. Our sales agents and channels are at your complete disposal during any stage of your trip.

Note: Before booking your travel package, contact our travel agents to verify availability.

There is no fixed amount for tips; the amount you give will depend on your satisfaction with the service received. However, it is highly recommended to give tips, as during your trip you will encounter many people who will make your experience possible, especially if you do any trekking route, where logistics are quite complex.

For tourists visiting Peru, it is important to consider some considerations about tipping and social etiquette.

• Regarding free walking tours, it is recommended to leave a tip for the guide, as they do not receive a salary and depend solely on the tips from participants. Suggested tips range from 8 to 15 dollars (or the equivalent in soles) per person, depending on the duration and quality of the tour. For example, for a 2.5-hour free tour in Cusco or Lima, a tip of approximately 10 dollars per person is suggested.
• In the case of paid tours, whether group or private, tips are optional but are considered a gesture of appreciation for good service. Recommended tips vary depending on the duration of the tour. For half-day excursions (5 hours), a tip of 3 to 5 dollars per person is suggested for group tours, and 5 to 8 dollars for private tours. For full-day tours (8 hours), suggested tips are 5 to 8 dollars per person for group tours, and 10 to 15 dollars for private tours. For multi-day tours, tips range from 10 to 20 dollars per person per day, depending on the type of tour.
• Regarding social etiquette in restaurants, it is recommended to tip 10% of the bill.