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Download Peru Key FactsPeru is a glorious adventure guaranteed to make any gap year magical. Take a life-changing journey across South America’s most legendary hiking route, the Inca Trail, and explore the stunning archaeological sites of Machu Picchu. This ancient Incan city high atop a mountain ridge is one of the world’s seven wonders, explorable on many of our Peru group tours. Once you’ve climbed through the Sacred Valley and discovered the Inca Empire’s legacy inside Cusco, you’re never the same! The wanderlust only grows from there, because our Peru group tours also cover secret deserts, astonishingly deep canyons, the world’s highest lake and so much more. Are you ready for it?
Read more in our Peru Travel Guide.
Peru Trips and Tours
Peru Facts
Capital City
LimaCurrency
Sol (PEN)Language
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A and CPeru Highlights
Machu Picchu
If you are searching for the adventure of a lifetime, you will find it at Machu Picchu. Named one of the Seven Wonders of the World for a reason, these awe-inspiring stone ruins are nestled high into the Sacred Valley peaks. Immerse yourself in the Inca history on our Peru tours - especially if you hike the iconic Inca Trail!
Nazca Lines
One of Earth’s greatest mysteries are the Nazca lines: ancient geoglyph shapes resembling animals and plants, carved into the Peruvian desert. Although scientists estimate the Nazca lines to be over 2,000 years old, no one really knows for sure… Is it a sign of alien life? Either way, this archaeological site is sure to take your breath away.
Cusco
Let Cusco cast its spell on you. More than a gateway to the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu, Cusco is one of the oldest cities in the entire world. From the traditional markets selling colourful handicrafts to the ancient archaeological sites and charming cobblestone laneways, this bewitching destination draws you in right away.
Rainbow Mountains
Chase out adventure while uncovering Peru’s famous candy-coloured hills. Get ready for a trekking journey reaching unbelievable heights, rewarding you with views of Peru’s most vibrant natural wonder. Even more visually striking in person, the feeling can be best described as spotting gold at the end of a rainbow.
Colca Canyon
Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, Peru’s own Colca Canyon is packed with moments that will take your breath away. The wildlife alone is extraordinary, from the Andean condors soaring through the sky to the adorable alpacas and llamas. As you hike to the top, jade green valleys transform into rocky mountains and rugged cliff edges.
Lima
Lose yourself in the wanderlust of Lima, Peru’s coastal capital. From its surfer beaches to the world-famous food scene and incredible street art, this city is a feast for the senses. When you are not exploring all the boho chic boutiques, get a taste of traditional culture by signing yourself up for a cooking class.
Huacachina
Who knew that Peru could even look like this? Between the golden sand dunes that glow under the sunset, the sweeping palm trees and the glistening emerald lagoon, Huacachina is the dreamiest oasis you could imagine. The best way to take all this beauty in on our Peru tours is by sandboarding - get ready for an adrenaline rush!
Sacred Valley
As part of your journey to Machu Picchu, step inside the Sacred Valley and prepare to be amazed. Picture this… Misty, frozen mountain peaks that lead into rolling hills of evergreen. Hilltop temples and labyrinths of ruins everywhere your head turns. Colourful markets inside rural villages. Welcome to the heart of the Incas.
Arequipa
Arequipa is easily one of the most enchanting cities in the Americas, from its ring of volcanoes to the picturesque architecture carved from white stone. Peel back its endless layers on our Peru trips. Whether you feel like unwinding at a cosy cafe, diving deep into the local history or hiking the historic Sillar Route, Arequipa has it all.
Lake Titicaca
Stretching across Peru and Bolivia, there is something magical about Lake Titicaca. Believed to be the birthplace of the sun under Inca mythology, expect to find beauty around every corner while sailing across Lake Titicaca. Deep indigo waters lead into secret temples and secluded islands, making a homestay here an absolute must.
Peru Travel Advice
Climate & Weather
Peru enjoys a diverse climate, from the tropical Amazon rainforest and subtropical desert region to the temperate Andes. Peru has a dry and wet season. May to October is Peru’s dry season, whereas November to April is the lush rainy season.
Thanks to the range of altitudes, Peru’s average temperatures are also varied. February is the hottest month for Lima, Peru’s capital on the coast, with an average temperature of 23℃. October is Cusco’s warmest month at 20℃. March is the hottest month for Huacachina, reaching highs of 30℃.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit on one of our Peru tours comes down to preference. Peru’s dry season lasts from May to October, which is a perfect time of year for trekking. The Inca Trail is closed in February, as this is the rainiest month. Machu Picchu is still open, so this can be an incredible time to visit for budget travellers.
Peru’s lush rainy season lasts from November to April, with some festivals throughout this time, such as ‘Virgen de la Candelaria’ and ‘Feast of the Three Kings’. This can be a great time of year to combine a visit to Ecuador for Galapagos wildlife.
Customs & Culture
Peru is a melting pot of Indigenous and Spanish cultural influences. This country is home to some of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world, including Machu Picchu: once part of the Inca Empire. Cultural preservation is important here, and on our Peru trips, you have the opportunity to visit community projects and local homestays.
Punctuality is generally more relaxed. While visiting religious sites, it is important to dress modestly. If you are interested in the Inca Trail, we encourage travellers to plan in advance as hiking passes are limited for preservation.
Passports & Visas
British passport holders can stay in Peru for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism purposes without needing a visa. Your passport must have an expiration date of at least 6 months after the day you arrive and have at least 1 blank page.
We recommend staying up to date with FCDO advice before you go travelling, as entry requirements and visa rules can be subject to change. This includes any countries you may transit as part of your journey.
Health & Safety
At Gap 360, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. From the moment your trip is confirmed until you arrive back home, you'll have access to a 24/7 emergency contact number for any urgent issues. For anything non-urgent, our friendly team is also available during office hours to help.
We strongly recommend checking the FCDO advice for Peru, as it's regularly updated with the latest safety and travel information and you can even sign up for email alerts to stay informed of any changes. In addition, you can check the FCDO general travel advice for British nationals abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
At Gap 360, our biggest priority is ensuring that travellers feel safe and supported on their adventures abroad. Before your departure on our Peru group tours, you will have access to our health and safety information with advice for your travels and country fact-files for Peru. You’ll also have access to a 24/7 emergency support number, operated by our UK-based team, to assist you while you're travelling. We always encourage travellers to do their own research before visiting a destination, or if you have any questions, we are just a message or phone call away.
Peru’s main official language is Spanish, as well as Quechua and Aymara. Some English is spoken within the more popular tourist areas such as Cusco.
British nationals can visit Peru for up to 90 days in a 180-day period without a visa for tourism purposes. Your passport must have an expiration date of at least 6 months after your arrival date. Always check FCDO advice before travelling, including for any destinations you transit as part of your journey.
Gap 360 has partnered with Masta and Nomad Clinics, one of the UK’s largest networks of private travel clinics. Through Masta, you can arrange a Travel Telephone Consultation, an in-person Consultation, and book your vaccinations at your nearest clinic.
Flights to Peru from the UK typically take around 15 to 17 hours, with limited direct flights available from London. There are also flight options available with one stopover if you are looking to travel on a budget.
Peru Trip Reviews
Read more about Peru
How to Prepare for Machu Picchu Altitude
So you want to trek to the iconic Lost City of Machu Picchu, see the vast colours of the Rainbow Mountains and spend your nights dancing with the locals (and llamas 🦙) in Cusco, but you’re faced with preventing altitude sickness. Here are all the tips & tricks on how to prepare for Machu Picchu’s altitude, so...
Last updated: 25th June 2024
Lares Trek vs Inca Trail: How to Choose Your Adventure
If Machu Picchu is one of your travel goals, you might’ve asked yourself whether it’s better to do the Lares Trek or the Inca Trail. While it’s completely possible to visit this new wonder of the world without breaking a sweat, nothing beats the adrenaline rush that comes from hiking through Peru’s...
Last updated: 5th September 2024
Things to Do in Peru: 12 Unmissable Experiences
In partnership with Is Peru calling your name? It will be by the end of this guidebook! From admiring Machu Picchu to exploring Huacachina to meeting Peruvian locals at a homestay, here are the 12 best and most authentic things to do in Peru: What do people go to Peru for? Incredible adventures. Rich culture. Welcoming locals. Adorable...
Last updated: 11th November 2024
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