Peru travel planning
Travel to Peru: how to plan a smooth trip (without overplanning)
Peru is the kind of country that rewards planning and spontaneity at the same time. You need a solid backbone—timing, tickets, altitude strategy, and transport—then you can relax into the fun parts: food in Lima, cobblestone streets in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and (yes) Machu Picchu.
This guide covers the essentials for travel to Peru: when to go, where to base yourself, how to handle altitude, how to stay safe, what to pack, and how to keep your phone connected with a Zetsim eSIM.
Planning principle: Peru is big and slow-moving in the best way. Pick 2–3 regions for one trip. Trying to do everything turns into a transport marathon.
Best time to visit Peru (quick, useful breakdown)
Peru’s seasons vary by region. The Andes, the coast, and the Amazon can feel like different countries on the same day. Instead of chasing a single “best month,” plan around where you’ll spend most of your time.
Andes (Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu)
Many travelers target drier periods to increase the chances of clear views and easier hiking conditions. If Machu Picchu and day hikes are the core of your trip, this is the region to prioritize when choosing dates.
Coast (Lima and nearby)
Lima has its own rhythm: cooler, often cloudy periods and warmer sunnier stretches. It can be enjoyable year-round, especially if your plans are food, culture, and coastal walks.
Amazon (Iquitos / Puerto Maldonado)
The Amazon is humid and changeable. Expect rain at some point. The “best” time depends on whether you want higher water levels for boat access or prefer relatively drier trails.
If you’re building a one-week trip around Cusco and Machu Picchu, plan your dates for the Andes first, then fit Lima around that.
Where to go: the best first-time Peru route
If it’s your first trip, there’s a reason this route keeps winning: it’s efficient, memorable, and it doesn’t require extreme logistics.
Lima (1–2 days)
- Why go: food scene, museums, coastal neighborhoods
- Good for: an easy arrival day to reset your sleep schedule
Cusco (2–4 days)
- Why go: history, markets, day tours, atmosphere
- Important: altitude—your first day should be light
Sacred Valley (1–3 days)
- Why go: scenic towns like Ollantaytambo, ruins, slower pace
- Bonus: staying here can simplify Machu Picchu logistics
Machu Picchu (1–2 days including travel)
- Why go: it’s iconic and still impressive in person
- Pro move: keep ticket confirmations accessible offline
Sample Peru itinerary ideas (realistic pacing)
7–9 days
Lima → Cusco → Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu → Cusco (fly out)
10–14 days
Add one extra region: Arequipa/Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, or a short Amazon stay.
14+ days
Include the Amazon for 3–4 nights and slow down everywhere else. Peru is better with breathing room.
If you only have a week, skip “optional” add-ons. Do the classic route well rather than doing five places badly.
Altitude in Peru: what to do so it doesn’t ruin day one
Cusco sits at high elevation. Altitude affects people differently, but the same strategy helps almost everyone:
- Take day one seriously: easy walking only, early dinner, good sleep.
- Hydrate and avoid going hard on alcohol on arrival.
- Schedule hikes later: don’t put your toughest trek on day two.
- Listen to your body: if you feel rough, slow down—Peru isn’t going anywhere.
Most travelers don’t need dramatic interventions. They just need to stop trying to “power through” altitude like it’s jet lag.
Is Peru safe to travel to?
Many tourists travel safely in Peru every day. The most common issues are avoidable: petty theft in crowded places and transport mistakes when travelers are tired, rushed, or not connected.
- Keep your phone secure in busy areas.
- Use reputable transport and confirm details before getting in.
- Avoid flashing valuables and carrying everything in one pocket.
- At night, stick to well-lit, well-trafficked areas (or take a ride).
Most “bad stories” start with a small decision: walking too far at night, trusting an unsolicited offer, or leaving a bag unattended for a minute.
Money and payments: what’s practical
Carry a mix of payment options. Peru travel tends to involve both card payments and cash moments.
- Carry two cards and store them separately.
- Keep a small amount of cash easy to access and the rest hidden.
- Use ATMs strategically: well-lit, busy locations, preferably during daytime.
What to pack for Peru (the shortlist)
- Layers: Andes days can swing from sun to cold quickly.
- Comfortable walking shoes: cobblestones and uneven ground show no mercy.
- Light rain protection: even in drier seasons, weather can change.
- Day bag with zips for crowded areas.
- Power bank: early tours + photos + maps = drained battery.
Packing light is underrated in Peru. You’ll move between cities more than you think.
Internet in Peru: why a travel eSIM is the easiest option
Peru travel involves coordination: transfers, tour meeting points, train schedules, ticket checks, and navigation in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Mobile data makes all of that calmer.
With a Zetsim eSIM, you can:
- buy your plan before departure
- install the eSIM on Wi‑Fi
- activate on arrival and use data immediately
- avoid SIM swapping and roaming surprises
Good habit: download offline maps for your key regions, then use mobile data for live directions and updates.
FAQ: Travel to Peru
Do I need a visa to travel to Peru?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and length of stay. Check Peru’s official government sources or your country’s travel advisory website close to your travel date.
What’s the best time to visit Peru?
It depends on your route. If the Andes and Machu Picchu are the priority, many travelers plan around drier periods to increase the chance of clear views and easier hiking conditions.
How many days do I need for a Peru trip?
Seven to nine days is a comfortable first-time itinerary for Lima + Cusco + Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu. Ten to fourteen days gives you room to add Arequipa, Lake Titicaca, or the Amazon.
Is Peru safe to travel to right now?
Safety can vary by region and can change due to local events or weather. Check official travel advisories close to departure, then follow standard precautions like using reputable transport and staying aware in crowds.
How do I get internet in Peru?
A travel eSIM is a simple option. With Zetsim, you can install your Peru eSIM before you fly (on Wi‑Fi) and activate it on arrival for data for maps, messaging, and bookings.
Should I stay in Cusco or the Sacred Valley?
Many travelers do both: Cusco for history and atmosphere, and the Sacred Valley for scenic stays and easier access to nearby sites. If altitude affects you, the Sacred Valley can feel more comfortable for some travelers.
