Peru Holidays

What can I experience in Peru?

Best known for the famous sites of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, there’s plenty to experience on a trip to Peru. Beyond the world-renowned cultural spots, this diverse country is fabulous for foodies, with ceviche, pisco sour cocktails and chocolate all originating here.

Historical monuments not your thing? We’re sure you’ll appreciate picturesque Peru’s fantastic landscapes, from towering mossy peaks and rainbow-coloured mountains to vast deserts and the wild Amazon rainforest.

What should I visit in Peru?

Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are must-visit locations for any holiday to Peru. Hike even a small section of the trail and watch the landscapes unfold around you; the ancient stone buildings emerge from the lush greenery and inspire a sense of awe and wonder.

Or, if you’re looking for activities closer to sea level, explore the beauty of the Amazon with a knowledgeable private guide. Hop aboard a luxurious riverboat (the Delfin II is one of our favourites) and enjoy an overnight cruise through the rainforest, led by a local naturalist. Learn about the people who have made the world’s biggest rainforest their home and keep an eye out for all sorts of fascinating creatures (we’re talking saki monkeys, freshwater river dolphins and green tree iguanas).

When you’ve had your fill of stunning scenery, head to the capital, Lima. The city is brimming with excellent chefs looking to make their mark on the global culinary scene, so it’s the perfect place to indulge in all the mouthwatering food Peru has to offer.

What is Peru famous for?

Peru is famous for its carefully preserved monuments and the breathtaking landscapes that surround them. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll be right at home whether you fancy hiking up muscular mountains or strolling along silky sands.

The country is also famed for the Nazca Lines. These mysterious shapes are etched into the desert in Peru and are only fully visible from the air. They cover an area of around 19 square miles and were only discovered in the 1920s, with the introduction of planes. Whether you believe an ancient tribe left them or they’re an indication of extraterrestrial life, the Nazca Lines have kept people guessing for years.

Why is the rainbow mountain in Peru colourful?

Located in the Andes mountains, the brightly striped Vinicunca mountain attracts thousands of visitors each year. Its nickname – Rainbow Mountain – is apt, with multicoloured stripes formed by 14 different minerals. Some people suggest that ice once covered the area, and as it melted, it mixed with the minerals already in the ground, revealing this vibrant natural tapestry.

Where is Peru located?

Peru is located in the west of South America. It borders Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil and Bolivia to the east, and Chile to the south. The west coast stretches along the South Pacific Ocean.

When is the best time to visit Peru?

The best time to visit Peru tends to be between June and October, although it depends on which region you’re planning to visit. The wet season runs from October to April, making it a risky choice if you’re planning on spending a lot of time outdoors, although the rainfall is significantly reduced on the coast (but pack a raincoat just in case).

What is the time difference between Peru and the UK?

Peru uses Peru Standard Time, which is GMT-5. During UK daylight saving hours, the time difference increases to six hours.

What currency does Peru use?

Peru’s currency is called the sol, which comes in note denominations of ten, 20, 50, 100 and 200. Coins come in ten, 20 and 50 cents (centimos), as well as one, two and five soles. It’s possible to use US dollars in many places, and some ATMs offer both sol and dollar withdrawals. Cash is the preferred payment method in more remote areas, although Visa is accepted in more established towns and cities.

What plugs are used in Peru?

Plugs in Peru are primarily Type A (with two parallel prongs) and Type C (two round prongs), so be sure to pack an adapter for your devices. The voltage is 220v, slightly lower than the UK.

What language is spoken in Peru?

Peru has three official languages: Spanish, Quechua and Aymara. However, Spanish is by far the most commonly spoken, so if you’re planning to brush up on a few phrases before your trip, it’s the best one to focus on. You’ll find that many people in the travel industry speak English, but it’s not commonly spoken among locals.

Where can I find the latest travel advice for Peru?

You can find the latest travel information for Peru on the UK Government website.

How long does it take to fly to Peru from the UK?

There are several international airports in Peru, but the most popular stop tends to be Lima, with an average flight time of 14 hours 55 minutes from London, with one stop. Other locations include:

• Cusco (18 hours)
• Juliaca (19 hours and ten minutes)
• Piura (19 hours and 50 minutes)
• Trujillo (18 hours and 25 minutes)

Currently, at least one stop is required to fly from the UK to Peru.

Do I need a visa to visit Peru?

You’re able to stay in Peru for up to 30 days without a visa. If you’re planning to stay longer, you’ll need to apply at immigration when you arrive. Officials can extend this up to 180 days. You can double-check the number of days you’ve been given on the Superintendencia Nacional de Migraciones website.

What are the passport requirements for Peru?

Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after you arrive in Peru. Make sure that your passport is stamped, as you’ll need this to be allowed to leave the country.

Do I need vaccinations to visit Peru?

It’s recommended that you’re up to date with standard UK vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella and diphtheria-tetanus-polio for travel to Peru. There's some risk of yellow fever in parts of the country, so you may want to consider a vaccination depending on your travel itinerary.