Best of Peru

Historic civilizations, dramatic landscapes, impossible feats of engineering, and contemporary culture come together in Peru in ways few destinations can match. Armchair travelers and worldly explorers alike share an urge to look upon Machu Picchu, that defining triumph of the Inca kingdom, for themselves — but there’s much more on offer beyond the misty citadel. From Lima’s Pacific coastline to the Amazonian jungle, Peru shares its story through architectural wonders, the preservation of traditional ways, and bold experimentation with modern flavors. 

PERU HIGHLIGHTS

Fernwayer’s curated experiences in Peru bridge the past and present. Archaeology-guided tours show how this is a place where history is embedded within everyday life — and how even today we continue to learn from those responsible for Machu Picchu and Pisac’s agricultural terraces. Beyond the major landmarks, our excursions are an invitation to lesser-known sites and sparsely trodden paths. Meaningful encounters with urban and rural communities immerse you in local life, where you’ll find that storytelling and a shared meal cultivate a different kind of tourism.

OUR PERU DESTINATIONS

PERU, CITY BY CITY

FERNWAYER'S THINGS TO DO IN PERU

Fernwayer operates culture-focused experiences in Lima, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley. Explore beyond the colonial center on neighborhood deep dives in Lima, and visit outlying communities to hear about ancient wisdom and the preservation of art and ritual. Learn about Cusco’s Incan (and pre-Incan) heritage at the side of an archaeologist in Cusco. In the Sacred Valley, venture beyond the tourist markets and into local communities where you’ll understand the rhythm of life in these remote, rural villages. 

Lima

What to do in Lima?

Lima is not just a gateway to Cusco and the Amazon: it’s a destination in itself. Peru’s wave-lashed capital juxtaposes pre-Columbian sites such as Huaca Pucllana with colonial-era architecture and a thriving culinary scene. Fernwayer shifts the focus to neighborhoods and living human culture. Fall into pace strolling the Malecón in “Miraflores: More Than Flowers” or trail a photographer from the seaside to the markets in “A Photographer’s Lima”. Get to know how local communities are working to provide a bright future for the young in “At Home in Lima” and spend an evening dining site-side with a historian guide at “Huaca Pucllana, Under the Moon.”

See all Lima Experiences

How long should I stay in Lima?

We recommend spending at least two full days in Lima. This allows time to see the city’s highlights and explore the main neighborhoods. Three to five days is better — this makes for a more comprehensive experience, with the option of at least one day trip. It’s even possible to devote a whole week to Lima, combining landmarks with hidden gems and a second day trip. 

Cusco

What to do in Cusco?

Once the capital of the Inca Empire, there is a lingering dizziness felt when venturing out to Cusco’s surrounding ruins and mountain trails — triggered as much by the scenery as the elevation. Hosted by a local archaeologist, “Saqsaywaman, Head of the Puma” and “Inca Trail to Inkilltambo” are a peek into the latest research, while “History In Your Hands” gives you the opportunity to be an excavator and piece the past together. An evening in Cusco can be spent chewing over the Andean worldview in “The Inca Cosmos”, a private salon with a distinguished archaeologist. Cusco is a natural base for a day trip to Machu Picchu.

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How long should I stay in Cusco?

This depends on whether you stay in Cusco and use the city as your base for the wider region or whether you allocate some nights to the Sacred Valley. Many travelers fly into Cusco, then transfer to the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo are the main towns) to acclimatize before returning to Cusco. At least seven days divided between Cusco and the Sacred Valley is most realistic, as this allows time for acclimatization, local exploration, and day trips. Additional time is required if you plan to partake in a multi-day trek.

Sacred Valley

What to do in the Sacred Valley?

The Sacred Valley is where travelers can slow down on immersive cultural experiences and connect with artisans and pastoral living. Those staying in Cusco can see the highlights of the Sacred Valley on a full-day excursion with a local guide. “Origins of the Sacred Valley” takes a deeper look at how daily life unfolds in the region’s remote communities. “Ancient Hands, Modern Clay” spotlights the art of Andean ceramics and jewelry-making. “Yachaqs, Healers of the Andes” reveals how this breathtaking landscape yields medical plants for healing.

How long should I stay in the Sacred Valley?

As above, we recommend spending at least seven full days in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. If you suffer from extreme altitude sickness, you may prefer to choose the lower-elevation towns of Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo as a base, from where you can take day trips to Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the surrounding valleys.

WHEN TO GO

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the best time of year to visit Peru? The best time depends on which regions you wish to explore. May to September is generally the best time overall, especially for visiting Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. These months bring dry weather, sunny days, and cooler evenings. Although warmer and greener, December to March coincides with the rainy season in the Andes. Trails can become muddy, and some may close temporarily. Lima and other coastal destinations are hottest and sunniest from December to April (summer in Peru). Peru’s Amazon is humid year-round, but June to October usually sees less rain and better wildlife viewing.

How many days do you need for a trip to Peru? Peru is larger and more geographically diverse than you may expect. Seven to ten days is enough for Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley. At least two weeks are needed if you wish to add Arequipa and/or the Amazon. Three weeks allows for a slower pace, or access to more remote regions like northern Peru or deep jungle experiences. When deciding your route, you’ll need to consider the travel time between locations and acclimatization.

What is the best way to travel between Peruvian cities? Domestic flights are the fastest and most practical option for long distances, such as Lima to Cusco and Cusco to Arequipa. Long-distance buses are a comfortable alternative: premium companies offer reclining seats and far more legroom than a flight. Private drivers and shared transfers work best in the Sacred Valley. Peru’s train routes are limited, but journeys like the one to Machu Picchu are all part of the experience. Combining flights with a few scenic road journeys works best for most travelers. Renting a car in Peru is not recommended due to chaotic driving conditions and challenging roads.

How do I avoid tourist traps in popular Peruvian cities? We recommend experiencing popular attractions and markets with a local guide, who can share a different perspective and ensure any purchases go into the pockets of locals — they can also recommend where to eat. Visit markets early in the morning: midday and afternoon hours usually coincide with the day trip crush. Prioritize eating where Peruvians eat, especially at lunchtime, when many restaurants offer excellent fixed-price menus.

Can I use my credit card everywhere in Peru, or do I need cash? You will need to travel with a mixture of cash (Peruvian Soles) and debit/credit cards. Cards are widely accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger stores. Cash is necessary for purchases at markets, smaller shops, and local restaurants. Any tips should be left in cash. 

What are the must-try regional foods in Peru? The food varies from region to region, with ceviche and seafood dishes dictating the diet in Lima and along the coast. Lomo saltado, a Chinese-Peruvian stir-fry, reflects Peru’s immigrant history. Ají de gallina, a creamy chicken stew with chilli and walnuts, is a national favorite. Cuy (guinea pig) and Pachamanca (a traditional earth-oven feast) are typical in Andean regions. Amazonian dishes rely on river fish, cassava, plantain, and tropical fruits. Regional drinks like chicha de jora, a fermented corn beverage, have deep Andean roots. Pisco, the national spirit, is available in all restaurants and bars. Peru is also one of the best places in the world for cacao and coffee.

Is Peru safe for tourists? Peru is a safe destination for tourists, with an excellent infrastructure and a welcoming environment. Petty crime is the main risk (do take care with your possessions in urban and crowded areas) and taxi scams are another to watch out for. This is why we advise using Uber/Cabify or hotel-approved drivers. Note that local drivers usually communicate using WhatsApp. Overexertion and altitude sickness are the main safety concerns for tourists. Care should be taken with water in Peru: we advise drinking only bottled water.

Do I need to speak Spanish to travel in Peru? English is widely spoken on Peru’s tourist circuit, and you shouldn’t encounter any issues at hotels, tourist-facing restaurants, and museums/archaeological sites. Indigenous languages like Quechua and Aymara are also widely spoken in parts of the country. Learning a few Spanish phrases will improve your experience enormously.

Do I need a visa to travel to Peru? Citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union can enter Peru for tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days. It is fairly typical for border officials to ask to see proof of onward travel, so ensure you have a valid return ticket booked before entry. Onward travel to another country is also acceptable.

How do I buy tickets for Machu Picchu? Official tickets are sold through Peru’s Ministry of Culture, and must be booked months in advance, especially during the dry season (May to September). Visitor numbers are limited each day, and the most popular circuits (Circuit 2, especially) sell out weeks or even months ahead. You are required to choose your hiking circuit and an entry time, as well as whether to include hikes such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Fernwayer’s Machu Picchu experiences include the purchase of tickets in the package — your Experience Maker will request your passport details in order to make the reservation. Because the ticket system changes regularly and availability can be confusing, many travelers find it easier to plan Machu Picchu as part of a curated itinerary.

Where is the best place to stay for Machu Picchu? Most visitors reach Machu Picchu by train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, followed by a shuttle bus up to the citadel. For many travelers, the Sacred Valley is the best overall base. Staying in Pisac, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo allows more time to acclimatise to the altitude while exploring other archaeological sites and partaking in slower cultural experiences. The valley has luxury lodges and wellness retreats aplenty, while Ollantaytambo has the main train station to Machu Picchu. Staying in Aguas Calientes (“Machu Picchu Pueblo”) suits travelers wanting to reach the citadel early in the morning before larger crowds arrive. This is the closest town, though it is busier and more commercial than the Sacred Valley. Despite being further afield, many travelers opt to visit Machu Picchu on a day trip from Cusco.