Peru holidays: Machu Picchu, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Lima
The Inca ruins of Machu Picchu in the clouds, the colonial city of Cusco high in the Andes and a food scene in Lima that ranks among the world's best. Peru is a trip you will remember for the rest of your life.
Machu Picchu
Photo: Eddie Kiszka / Unsplash
Peru at a glance
The train winds along the Urubamba River between steep mountainsides, and a few hours later you stand above Machu Picchu as the clouds drift past. Peru is the Inca empire, colonial cities, desert coast and the Amazon in one country, and most trips are built around Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
Altitude is the main thing to plan for. Cusco sits at around 3,400 metres, so take the first days slowly. See more of South America in our Americas guide, Argentina and Brazil.
What to see
Machu Picchu
The 15th-century Inca city sits on a ridge above the river. Tickets are limited each day, so book well ahead. You get there by train to Aguas Calientes and bus up, or on foot along the Inca Trail.
Cusco
The old Inca capital has Spanish churches built on Inca walls, lively squares and good restaurants. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Sacred Valley
The valley between Cusco and Machu Picchu has Inca terraces at Pisac and Ollantaytambo and lies lower than Cusco. It is a good place to start while you get used to the altitude.
Lima
The capital on the Pacific is famous for food, from ceviche to restaurants at the top of the world rankings. The districts of Miraflores and Barranco sit on cliffs above the sea.
Lake Titicaca and Arequipa
Lake Titicaca lies at around 3,800 metres, with floating reed islands near Puno. Arequipa is a white colonial city ringed by volcanoes, with the Colca Canyon nearby.
Cusco
Photo: Ken S / Unsplash
When to go
May to September: the dry season in the Andes and the best time for Machu Picchu.
April and October: fewer visitors and mostly good weather.
December to March: the rainy season in the mountains. The Inca Trail closes in February.
Good to know
UK citizens do not need a visa for a holiday.
There are direct flights from London to Lima, and many routes via Madrid, Amsterdam or the US.
Book Machu Picchu tickets and trains well ahead in high season.
Where to stay
Peru has good hotels along the whole route, from Lima to Cusco and the Sacred Valley. A dedicated Peru hotel guide is on the way.
Frequently asked questions about Peru
When is the best time to visit Peru?
May to September is the dry season in the Andes and the best time for Machu Picchu and Cusco.
How many days do I need in Peru?
Ten days covers Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. With two weeks you can add Lake Titicaca or the Amazon.
Does the altitude in Cusco make you ill?
Many people feel the altitude for the first few days. Take it easy, drink plenty of water and consider starting lower, in the Sacred Valley.
Do I need a visa for Peru?
No, UK citizens do not need a visa for a holiday. Check the current rules before you travel.