Peru tours discovery guide
Visiting Peru is like trying your first forkful of aji de gallina—richly satisfying and absolutely unforgettable. From the Sacred Valley to the capital city of Lima, we’ll whisk you across the storied land of the Inca, introducing you to its past and present.
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What to know before you go
POPULATION
More than 34 million people live in Peru, making it South America’s fourth-most populous country. However, close to a third of them—some 11 million inhabitants—live along the Pacific Ocean in Callao and Lima.
CAPITAL
While the city was founded in 1535 by Spanish conquistadores, Lima’s name long predates their arrival—and that of the Inca. It derives from the Quechua word “limaq,” referring to an oracle that once prophesized in the Rimac Valley.
CULTURAL QUICK TAKE
In addition to the Quechua, Aymara, and other Indigenous groups, Peru’s multiethnic populace boasts a strong Asian minority. Ever try chaufa or lomo saltado? You can thank Chinese immigrants for those mouthwatering additions to Peruvian cuisine!
WHAT TO GO FOR
Machu Picchu. Ollantaytambo. The Sacsayhuaman. You could fill a trip to Peru solely with Inca icons, but you’d miss out on the biodiversity of the Amazon and the bustle of Lima. Our recommendation: Go with an open mind and heart.
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES ON TOUR
Trace the mysterious Nazca Lines from high above the desert floor, walk between Maras’ colorful quilt of salt pans, delight in the fresh flavors of a classic ceviche (compliments to the chef: you), and plenty more.
Machu Picchu to Lake Titicaca
From the teeming banks of the Amazon River, to the staggering peaks of the Andes, to the arid shores surrounding Lake Titicaca, you’ll discover why Peru is just one of a few megadiverse countries on the planet.
The essential Peru
Lima’s UNESCO-listed core? Cuzco’s colonial churches? Machu Picchu’s legendary ruins? No trip to Peru is complete without visiting this trio of destinations—and these tours stop at each.
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Ecuador & Peru
Like Machu Picchu, the Galapagos Islands need little introduction. Marvel at both on this tour, as well as the Ecuadorean capital of Quito, Papallacta’s hot springs, and—on the extension—the Peruvian Amazon.
Grab your passport—and your notebook
Planning a trip to Peru? You could wait for inspiration to strike—or let our team of experts point you in the right direction.
The ultimate Peru Travel Guide
Find staff-approved recommendations for everything from where to grab a bite to how to pack for those Andean heights.
Why is Lima a bucket list destination?
Go for the coastal scenery, stay for the sanguchones (heaping, heavenly sandwiches)—and six other draws that’ll leave you speechless.
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Prep Peruvian favorites like a pro
Head to a Cuzco restaurant, try chef-tested recipes for two traditional dishes, and savor each bite of your creations during an included dinner. Try it on our A Week in Peru: Lima, Cuzco & Machu Picchu tour.
Delve into the traditions of the Sacred Valley
Look down into the peculiar terraces of Moray, smell the tang of salt wafting off the salineras of Maras, and watch artisans spin and dye textiles in Chinchero. Try it on our Ancient Peru & Machu Picchu tour.
Explore the intersection of old and new
Step into the thriving street art scene of Callao, where the prismatic paints of graffiti coexist with historic architecture. Try it on our Peru for Solo Travelers: Lima, Cuzco & Machu Picchu tour.
Shout “salud!” to the coming year
Watch fireworks erupt over the Plaza de Armas, raise a glass of Champagne, and toast the new year alongside an entire city. Join the fun on our New Year’s Eve in Lima: Ancient Peru & Machu Picchu tour.
Pick your perfect trip
We offer 200+ immersive, guided tours around the world. Wherever you choose to go, you’ll enjoy lots of advantages that make traveling with us different.
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Prep your packing list
While you’re deciding what to take, we’ll be busy arranging your hotels, meals, tickets, and more tour essentials. That’s what going guided is all about.
Go far (and get rewarded)
Take off on your big adventure— but why stop there? Every trip you book with us earns rewards that you can use to keep expanding your horizons.
Set your sights on South America
Brazil. Chile. Colombia. The countries and cultures of this continent are as vibrantly diverse as the colors of a toucan’s beak. Where will you head next?
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