Peru was where I proved to myself I could do hard things.
Machu Picchu was my first major climb. My first Wonder of the World. It was all new to me—and a little terrifying. I’d only just learned Spanish, I was on a tight budget, and I definitely wasn’t the most “prepared” hiker on the trail.
But I did it. Step by step. Altitude and all.
At the top, sweaty and out of breath, I stood there and thought, “This. This is why I travel.”
To feel small in the best way. To witness something I once only dreamed of. To remember I can figure things out.
Peru showed me what’s possible. That you don’t need perfect plans, just a curious heart and a bit of courage.
If you’re thinking of going, I put together these guides to help. They’re filled with the places and little moments that made me fall in love with Peru. I hope they help you fall in love too.
PERU TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links—that means that at no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission if you book through these links, and that helps me keep this blog running.
Best Time to Go
May–September (dry season) and best for hiking)
How Long
2–3 weeks to explore Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu
Daily Budget
$35–$70/day for budget travelers
Getting There
Fly into Lima for international arrivals; then fly to Cusco
PERU visa
Up to 183 days visa-free for most nationalities
PERU eSIM
Must-have for remote areas. $3 off code: GLADIS1238
travel insurance
Highly recommended for trekking and altitude risks
PERU Custom Itinerary
[Coming Soon]
Explore the Cities of Peru

The ancient Inca capital nestled in the Andes
Cusco
- How to Prepare for Rainbow Mountain Altitude
- Official Machu Picchu Ticket (Optional Bus & Guide)
- Trek the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Ride the Scenic Vistadome Train to Machu Picchu
- Hike Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley
- Hike to Stunning Humantay Lake
- Explore the Sacred Valley and Moray Salt Mines
- Chinchero, Moray, and Maras Salt Mines Day Trip
- Join a Cooking Class in Cusco with Market Visit
- Make Your Own Chocolate at ChocoMuseo
- Free Walking Tour in Cusco
The coastal capital of cuisine and contrasts
Lima
- Discover Lima’s Colonial Center on a Walking Tour
- Join Lima’s Ultimate Peruvian Food Tour
- Street Food Tour at Lima’s Historic Center
- Cook the Most Popular Peruvian Dishes
- Cook an Authentic Ceviche and Peruvian Pisco Sour
- Miraflores, Barranco & San Isidro in One Day
- Bike Through Barranco & Miraflores
- Bar Hop Through Miraflores on a Nightlife Tour
- Watch the Magic Water Circuit Night Show
- Ancient Pyramids, Pachacamac and Larco Museum
- See Peru’s Ancient Artifacts at the Larco Museum
- City Tour with Larco Museum & Huaca Pucllana
- Go Paragliding Over the Lima Coastline
- Swim with Sea Lions at Palomino Island
- Day Trip to Paracas and Huacachina Oasis
