Peru

Peru is a destination that transcends travel; it is an encounter with the divine. From the soaring, snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the deep, mystical depths of the Amazon, it is a country where history is not found in books, but in the very stones beneath your feet. It is a land of vibrant textiles, ancient languages, and a culinary scene that has taken the global stage by storm.

Whether you are tracing the footsteps of the Inca along the high-altitude trails or exploring the avant-garde galleries of Lima, Peru offers a depth of soul and a richness of experience that few places on earth can rival.

Why we love Peru

We love Peru for its layers. It is a place where a 16th-century Spanish cathedral sits atop the foundations of a massive Inca temple, and where ancestral traditions blend seamlessly with world-class modern luxury. It is the thrill of the first glimpse of a “lost city” in the clouds and the warmth of a mountain community that makes Peru so captivating. Here, the past is always present, and the spirit of the Andes is felt in every breath.

The Most Beautiful Places in Peru

From the “Lost City” to the world’s deepest canyons:

1. Cusco & The Sacred Valley

Once the navel of the world, Cusco is a city of granite walls and red-tiled roofs. Descend from the city into the Sacred Valley, a lush corridor of agricultural terraces, artisan markets like Pisac, and the formidable fortress of Ollantaytambo. This is the heartland of the Inca, offering the perfect blend of high-end mountain lodges and ancient mystery.

2. Machu Picchu

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World and an architectural masterpiece. Whether you arrive via the legendary Inca Trail or the luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham train, the first view of the citadel perched between the Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu peaks is a moment of pure, unadulterated awe.

3. Lima

The undisputed culinary capital of South America. Lima is a city of ocean-front cliffs and grand colonial plazas. From the bohemian charm of Barranco to the Michelin-starred dining in Miraflores, Lima is a feast for the senses. It is the perfect place to start your journey, tasting the world’s freshest ceviche while overlooking the Pacific.

4. Lake Titicaca

The highest navigable lake in the world and the legendary birthplace of the Sun. Visit the floating Uros islands, made entirely of reeds, and the island of Taquile, where the men are famous for their intricate knitting. Staying in a luxury lodge on the lake’s edge offers a sense of serenity that is truly spiritual.

5. Arequipa & The Colca Canyon

The “White City” of Arequipa, built almost entirely from sillar (volcanic stone), is framed by three massive volcanoes. Nearby, the Colca Canyon—twice as deep as the Grand Canyon—is the best place in South America to watch the majestic Andean Condor soar on the morning thermals.

Highlights of a Tour Through Peru

  • The Belmond Andean Explorer: Board South America’s first luxury sleeper train for a journey across the high Altiplano, connecting Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Arequipa in unparalleled style.
  • Flight over the Nazca Lines: Take to the sky to witness the enigmatic geoglyphs etched into the desert floor—massive figures of animals and geometric shapes that have baffled scientists for decades.
  • Amazonian Immersion: Head to Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado to board a luxury river cruiser or stay in an eco-lodge, exploring the vast biodiversity of the world’s greatest rainforest.

Essential Travel Tips

  • When to go: The dry season (May to October) is the best time for trekking in the Andes and visiting Machu Picchu. The “Green Season” (November to April) offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds, though rain is more frequent.
  • Altitude: Cusco sits at 3,400m. We recommend traveling directly to the lower altitude of the Sacred Valley upon arrival to acclimate, drinking plenty of muña or coca tea, and taking your first few days at a slow, “Andean” pace.
  • Gastronomy: Peru is a pilgrimage for foodies. Be sure to book your tables at world-renowned restaurants like Central or Maido months in advance, and don’t miss out on regional specialties like lomo saltado or pachamanca.
  • Currency: The Peruvian Sol (PEN) is the official currency. While USD is often accepted in high-end hotels, having local currency is essential for markets and smaller towns.