Peru is a destination that truly has it all—breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and some of the best food you’ll ever taste. Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, wandering the charming streets of Cusco, or venturing into the Amazon, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do.
Is Peru Safe to Visit?
Like in every country, there are both good and bad areas. I was initially hesitant to go alone because you hear so much about how dangerous South America can be. I ended up convincing my mom to come with me (HUZZAH!), but once we got there, I felt a bit silly for worrying so much. We felt completely safe the entire time, especially in Miraflores and Cusco's historic center—even walking to tour meetups at 4 AM! Like anywhere, do your research and follow normal precautions: keep your valuables secure, avoid walking alone at night, and use trusted transportation.
OUR TWO WEEK ITINERARY
Lima
Day 1: Fly into Lima.
Day 2&3: Two-day tour from lima - Nazca lines flight, Paracas & Huacachina (sandboarding and dune buggying).
Day 4: Explore Lima - I recommend checking out palomino islands or paragliding over Miraflores.
Cusco
Day 5: Fly to Cusco
Day 6: Explore Cusco Historic Center
Day 7: ATV Tour of Sacred Valley (Moray, Maras Salt Mines) + Zipline
Day 8: Machu Picchu
Day 9: ATV Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley (! Do NOT go to Rainbow Mountain before spending a minimum of 3 days in Cusco adjusting to the altitude ! Rainbow Mountain is over 17,000 feet above sea level. Altitude effects everyone differently. I crossed several people on the trail using oxygen tanks. My mom was unable to leave the tour van and had to go down early on an oxygen tank because she nearly stopped breathing.)
Day 10-13: 4 days Amazon (Manu National Park tour from Cusco) (There are also 3 day tours, in which case I recommend doing Humantay Lake Day 9)
Day 14: Fly home from Cusco
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING PERU
Don't Drink the Tap Water: Tap water is not safe to drink. We bought a livelarq water bottle and used it for drinking, cooking and brushing our teeth and had no problems.
Don't flush toilet paper: Peru's plumbing is not set up for flushing toilet paper and this can clog the toilet.
Bring your own toilet paper: Bathrooms on a lot of the tours didn't have toilet paper.
Payments: Credit cards are widely accepted in Lima and Cusco, but smaller towns and markets often require cash.
Transportation: We used Uber in both Lima and Cusco. Lima has a good public transport system and Cusco has a bus system and was walkable. PeruRail or Inca Rail are used for travel to Machu Picchu.
Altitude: Cusco is over 11,000 feet above sea level, Rainbow Mountain over 17,000 so its recommended to spend three days in Cusco to adjust before trying Rainbow Mountain.
Remedies for Altitude Sickness: We started taking altitude meds every morning and night the two days before heading to Cusco, you will also find Coca & Muna tea and candy all over the town, which helps with altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and getting lots of sleep are also important.
Tipping: 10% tipping is customary, though service charge may already be included in your bill.
Outlet: Peru uses type A and C plugs (same as the US).
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