Peru is in Americas. Its capital is Lima. It ranks #36 among the world's most-visited countries. It draws about 3.2 million visitors a year. Below: top cities, experiences, seasons, food and entry rules.
Every figure links to its source.
| Detail | Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Capital | Lima | Wikipedia |
| Population | 34.5 million (2024) | Wikipedia |
| Currency | Sol (PEN) | Wikipedia |
| Official language | Spanish, Quechua, Aymara | Wikipedia |
| Area | 1,285,216 km² | Wikipedia |
| Region | Americas | UN Tourism / Wikipedia |
| Annual visitors | 3.2 million (2024) | UN Tourism |
Peru sits on South America's Pacific coast. It is the heartland of the Inca Empire. Landscapes span coast, Andes and Amazon. It is a republic of twenty-five regions.
Peru sits in Americas, with Lima as its capital. It suits first-time visitors and repeat travellers alike. You can mix famous sights with quieter corners. This guide covers cities, experiences, seasons, food and visas.
A quick framework before the details.
Start by choosing your season and trip length. Most first trips run about one to two weeks. Base yourself in Lima first, then branch out. Add Cusco and Arequipa for variety and contrast. Book flights and any visa well ahead. Leave slow days to simply wander and rest.
Beyond the cities — the sights worth planning around.
These sights anchor most Peru itineraries. Pick a few and build your route around them.
Where the country's variety lies.
| Region | Known for |
|---|---|
| Cusco | The Inca capital and Machu Picchu gate. |
| Puno | Lake Titicaca's floating islands. |
| Arequipa | A colonial city near Colca Canyon. |
| Loreto | An Amazon hub reached by river. |
Each region has its own scenery, food and pace. Mixing two or three gives the fullest picture.
Easy routes built from the cities above.
Adjust nights to your pace and interests. Fewer stops usually means a richer trip.
Visit May to September for Andes treks. Amazon areas stay warm and wet year-round.
| Season | Typically | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring | Mild, fewer crowds | Often a sweet spot |
| ☀️ Summer | Peak & warmest | Busy and pricier |
| 🍂 Autumn | Cooler, colourful | Great value shoulder |
| ❄️ Winter | Coldest / off-peak | Quiet; some sights close |
Tourism data: UN Tourism.
Trains, transit and the open road.
Cities usually have metros, buses or trams. Trains link many regions comfortably and scenically. Domestic flights save time over long distances. Car hire opens up the countryside and small towns.
Dishes worth seeking out.
Food is a highlight of any Peru trip. Try local markets, cafes and family-run spots.
| Dish | What it is |
|---|---|
| Ceviche | Raw fish cured in lime. |
| Lomo saltado | A beef-and-chip stir-fry. |
| Causa limeña | Layered potato with avocado. |
| Anticuchos | Grilled marinated skewers. |
| Pisco sour | The national grape-brandy cocktail. |
Time a trip around these.
| Festival | When | About |
|---|---|---|
| Inti Raymi | June | An Inca sun festival in Cusco. |
| Fiestas Patrias | July | Independence Day parades. |
| Semana Santa | Mar–Apr | Holy Week processions. |
Festivals book out hotels early. Plan and reserve well in advance.
Small courtesies that go a long way.
A friendly greeting is always appreciated. Dress modestly at temples, churches and shrines. Learn a few words of Spanish. Quechua, Aymara before you go. Tipping norms vary, so check locally.
Most visitors arrive by air. Confirm visa rules before booking.
🛂 For Indian passport holders: Indians need a visa; US or Schengen holders may enter visa-free. See the official source: Visa policy.
Also check the IATA Travel Centre.
Base yourself in Lima, Cusco or Arequipa. Each has stays from hostels to five-star hotels. A mid-range hotel runs about $25–40 a night. Book early in peak season and near the main sights.
Search hotels in Lima, Cusco, Arequipa. Browse all stays on Booking.com or Airbnb.
Approximate daily costs per person, excluding flights.
| Style | Approx. per day | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| 🎒 Budget | $25–35 | Hostels, street food, public transport |
| 🧳 Mid-range | $55–90 | Comfortable hotels, cafes, some taxis |
| 🛎️ Luxury | $90–150 / night+ | Five-star hotels, fine dining, private guides |
A comfortable mid-range hotel runs about $25–40 a night. Meals add around $12–25 a day. Cities cost more than towns and villages. Travelling off-peak stretches your budget further.
Souvenirs and local specialities.
Little things that smooth a trip.
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| 💵 Money | The currency is Sol (PEN). |
| 📱 Connectivity | Buy a local or eSIM on arrival. |
| 🔌 Power | Carry a universal travel adapter. |
| 🩺 Health | Check vaccines and travel insurance. |
| 🗣️ Language | The main language is Spanish, Quechua, Aymara. |
Leave places better than you find them.
A little Spanish, Quechua, Aymara goes a long way.
The main language is Spanish, Quechua, Aymara. English is common in tourist areas and hotels. Learn hello, please and thank you first. A translation app helps with menus and signs.
Cards, cash and everyday spending.
The currency is Sol (PEN). Cards work widely in cities and hotels. Carry some cash for markets and small vendors. ATMs are easy to find in towns. Tell your bank before you travel abroad.
A mid-range hotel costs about $25–40 a night. Five-star stays run roughly $90–150. Food adds around $12–25 a day. Budget days cost about $25–35; mid-range about $55–90.
What to bring for Peru's climate and culture.
Pack layers for cold nights and warm days. Bring strong sun protection. Add comfortable walking shoes and a travel adapter. Bring personal medicines. Carry copies of your passport and visa.
Odds and ends worth knowing.
A little extra background.
Peru pairs ancient ruins with big landscapes. Machu Picchu needs advance booking. Acclimatise slowly to Cusco's altitude. Coca tea helps with the thin air. Ceviche and pisco are national favourites. Cash is essential in smaller towns. The dry season suits Andes treks. Altitude and distance shape any plan.
Peru is in Americas. Its capital is Lima.
Visit May to September for Andes treks. Amazon areas stay warm and wet year-round.
A mid-range hotel costs about $25–40 a night. Five-star stays run roughly $90–150. Meals add around $12–25 a day. Backpackers manage on about $25–35 daily. A mid-range trip costs about $55–90 a day. That excludes international flights.
Plan about 10-14 days for Peru. That covers the highlights without rushing. Add more days for a slower pace.
Pack layers for cold nights and warm days. Bring strong sun protection. Add comfortable walking shoes and a travel adapter. Bring personal medicines. Carry copies of your passport and visa.
The top cities are Lima, Cusco, Arequipa. Base yourself in Lima first. Then branch out to the others.
Indians need a visa; US or Schengen holders may enter visa-free.
Buses and domestic flights link the main regions. Trains help in some countries. Hire cars suit rural areas. City taxis cover short trips. Ride-hailing apps work in big cities.
Peru uses the Sol (PEN). Carry some cash; cards work in cities and hotels.
The official language is Spanish, Quechua, Aymara. English is common in tourist areas and hotels.
About 3.2 million (2024) international visitors.
Try Ceviche, Lomo saltado and Causa limeña. Street stalls and family-run spots are the best value.
Yes. Peru is welcoming and easy for first-time visitors. Especially in tourist areas.
Another top spot in Americas.
Another top spot in Americas.
Another top spot in Americas.
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