Huaraz is the perfect departure point for excursions into both the Cordillera Blanca and the Cordillera Negra. It's in the heights of the Sierra that you will truly discover all the fantastic features that the Ancash region has to offer.

Huarez: a jewel nestled between snow-covered peaks

It's at Lima that the great numbers of Peruvians found themselves in the 50s, when the rural exodus was at its peak. The capital has seen a tenfold increase in its population and it's this mixture of people and cultures from all over the country that gives it all its variety today.

Visiting Lima's various neighbourhoods

A visit to the heart of the various pre-Incan civilisations in the land of the Lambayeque. The region is brimming with important archaeological remains, so let's follow the tracks of this impressive historical heritage...

Lambayeque: follow in the footsteps of ancient civilisations

Located between the Selva and the Cordillera of the Andes, the Huancavélica and Cerro Pasco region will put you under its spell, with its incredible landscapes, the welcoming nature of the local inhabitants and the old traditions that are still very much alive

Pasco and Huancavélica: a voyage combining nature and tradition

The huge capital of Peru sprung up out the desert. Lima is a noisy town, an easy going place where clouds cover the sky for 8 months of the year.

South America

On these pages you will find ideas for a trip to Peru to help you prepare for your trip. All these ideas are there just to get your imagination going; you can alter, mix and match them as you please. Your local agent will help you create a unique and unforgettable trip, just for you! Peru has three distinct parts, each with its own character: the Pacific coast, which is the most densely populated; the Andes range, with the highest mountain being the towering Huascarán at 6,768 metres; and the Amazon, which covers the largest part of the country. If you’re going, start with the must-see: Machu Picchu – fortunately not found by the Conquistadors – rediscovered in 1911. You should visit it at dawn to see the ruins shrouded in mist. This extraordinary site still clasps a few secrets to its bosom. Not far away, the Andes range draw ramblers and trekkers to magnificent landscapes. The ultimate rambling experience is the Inca Trail through exceptional archaeological sites. During your stay in Peru, you must stop in Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. The Spanish erected their buildings, especially religious ones, over Inca constructions which they systematically destroyed, only sparing their characteristic foundations, which are still visible today with their large, perfectly cut and fitted stones. A voyage out of time awaits you in Cusco.

Peru

Lima

 Pisac: a wonderful site that remains still very well preserved today and where you can see and appreciate the ingenious system of terraces developed during the pre-Inca era in all its splendour.

Pisac

 The town of Ollantaytambo and it's archaeological site are situated between Cusco and Machu Picchu. Take the time to visit this charming, little Inca town.

Ollantaytambo

Andahuaylillas, a small village in the Andes mountains is still protected from the many tourist buses roaming all around Cusco.

Andahuayillas

An unmissable archaeological site in the Ancash region and the astronomical and religious centre of the Chavin civilisation.

Chavin De Huantar

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If you are going by Huaraz on <a href="/peru/">your holiday in Peru,</a> a visit to the arhaeological site at Chavin de Huantar is a must. As for all the excursions in the region, an organised tour, in this case starting with a cup of maté de coca and a stop at the laguna at Queracoha, is the easiest and most economical option. It's also possible to get there via a three day trek from Olleros, which looks really lovely. Having a fair bit of time to explore the area, I chose to stay in a village nearby for a few days and find a guide whilst I was there. The temple decorations are truly superb, but be aware that you shouldn't expect to find a very large site here. However, it's mainly when you go inside the buildings that the place comes into its own. Here you'll find a maze of corridors and galleries where the acoustics are so truly stunning that they are still much-studied even now. Many mysteries are still waiting to be unravelled about this civilisation, one of the oldest in South America. But this in no way spoils the visit, which is truly exciting.

The best local travel agencies in Peru for family tours with kids

Family tour ideas in Peru

Whilst Peru is often synonymous with Machu Picchu, whose steep slopes might not seem like the perfect stomping ground for little feet, there is so much for <a href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/where-to-go/family-adventure-holidays/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/where-to-go/family-adventure-holidays/">families</a>&nbsp;to discover in this beautiful country on one of our&nbsp;<a data-destination-id="93" data-internal-link="destination">tailor-made Peru tours</a>. Head to one of the smaller archaeological sites to escape the crowds and the steep hike, without compromising on any of the fascinating history or the sense of adventure. Lima’s colourful sights and sounds will be sure to please visitors of any age, or if the city isn’t your thing, spend some time on one of Peru’s stunning beaches, soaking up the sun or splashing in the crystal waters. <h3>Best things&nbsp;to see and do in&nbsp;Peru with kids</h3>Peru’s family friendly activities are sure to keep the entire family entertained throughout your time in this magnificent country and there are so many to choose from. In <a data-place-id="289" data-internal-link="place">Lima</a>, wander the interesting and beautiful streets before visiting the Chocomuseo, a chocolate museum providing interactive and hands on classes and experiences for parents and families of all ages. Wherever you go in Peru, you’ll be able to take a cycle tour since this country is so well suited to the cyclist way of life, meaning you can rent a bicycle from one of many rental shops that you will find on your travels. Peru is also home to water parks, which are perfect for a family day of fun in the sun. El Circuito Magico Del Agua is one interesting example in Lima, which may not involve any water slides but is a fun visit with water fountains galore and even a light show once the sun sets. If water is what you’re after, then spend some time on the North Coast in Mancora where you and your family can relax or even give surfing a go. For archaeological wonders, visit <a data-place-id="25218" data-internal-link="place">Cusco</a> or <a data-place-id="22497" data-internal-link="place">Machu Picchu</a> which are breathtaking sites. Cusco in particular is a must-see for visitors of all ages, and you’ll be able to wander the narrow streets of this ancient Incan city that is undoubtedly the historical centre of Peru. You can also enjoy thrilling zipline rides or bike rides around the ruins.&nbsp;For younger children, the walk to Machu Picchu can be&nbsp;challenging, but don’t worry! There’s plenty to do further down, in the nearby, smaller sites such as Pisac and Maras where you can get up close to some llamas or meet some locals. On top of all that, why not visit <a data-place-id="305" data-internal-link="place">Colca Canyon</a>&nbsp;for a gentle trek, where you can also ride horses and feel like a real cowboy as you explore one of the world’s deepest canyons. For real adventure lovers, another great activity for families is a flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines in a thrilling plane ride, or even a piranha fishing excursion in the Amazon River!&nbsp;<a data-place-id="299" data-internal-link="place">Lake Titicaca</a> is another location that is not to be missed for any families visiting Peru, and looks as though it has been lifted straight from a film; you and your family are guaranteed to make some amazing memories here. <h3>Best time to visit&nbsp;Peru as a family</h3>Peru’s huge range of geographical features means that the climate can vary hugely depending on location, and it can be tricky to work out exactly <a data-document-id="3378" data-internal-link="article">when to go</a>. In Lima, you may need to pack extra layers for the night time if you plan on visiting between November and March but this will likely be the only place where such precautions are necessary. Higher altitudes bring cooler and fresher temperatures and often provide a nice escape from the humidity of the jungle. The coast is best visited around January, when the weather is hot. You will be able to cool off in the sea, whose waters are usually cool due to currents. Since the weather is so variable, the busiest times to visit are often dictated by national holidays, with many tourist flocking during the winter months and then again in high summer.&nbsp; <h3>Family holiday tips for travelling to&nbsp;Peru</h3>With a little research and knowledge you can ensure that you are as prepared as possible for your family trip to Peru, here a few tips and tricks to ensure that everything runs smoothly on your holiday. <ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Latino culture is so warm and welcoming toward families and children that you’ll instantly feel comfortable here. If anywhere is the place for a homestay, its here, where hospitality and friendly locals will leave a lasting impression on you all and may just make your trip. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">As with any visit to a foreign country, check with your GP before leaving whether there are any vaccinations or medicines that you need to get. Bring along plenty of mosquito spray too, to avoid the annoyance of itchy bug bites throughout your trip. If you plan on visiting the Amazon, be sure to mention this to your doctor too, since this can require extra medicines and vaccinations. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Take it easy when you first climb to Peru’s highest altitudes since these can be tiring for everyone and pushing yourselves can exacerbate the situation and led to altitude sickness. If you do find the altitude getting to you, muña tea or coca leaves can help.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas where pickpockets are rife. Keep cash and any important documents in a safe a hidden place. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Learn a few key phrases. Learning some choice words and phrases can be extremely handy should you find yourself in a situation where no one speaks English. Learning a new language can also be a great new challenger for your children. If nothing else, it always goes down well to greet locals in their own language.</li></ul>

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Family holidays in Peru

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The best local travel agencies in Peru for honeymoon tours

Honeymoon tour ideas in Peru

The best tailor-made honeymoon tours and experiences in Peru, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Honeymoon in Peru

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The best local travel agencies in Peru for two week tours

Two week tour ideas in Peru

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Two weeks in Peru

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The best local travel agencies in Peru for one week tours

One week tour ideas in Peru

<a href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/peru/" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/peru/"></a><a data-destination-id="93" data-internal-link="destination">Peru</a> is unlike any place you’ll visit in South America, with the world’s friendliest people and most diverse landscapes; in one week in Peru you’ll travel through dense Amazonian rainforest, arid desert, and snow-capped mountain ranges. Be prepared for adventure in this amazing country.<h3>Best things to see and do for one week in Peru</h3><h4>What to see in one week</h4>The county’s modern capital, <a data-place-id="289" data-internal-link="place">Lima</a>, is where most tourists will arrive into Peru. The city itself is enormous, and is divided into 43 districts. Depending on your interests you can roam around the historic heart of the city in the Centro de Lima (a UNESCO world heritage site), or sample the local cuisine in one of the many great restaurants located in <a data-place-id="15856" data-internal-link="place">Miraflores</a>, the city’s party district. For a very upscale stay, visit San Isidro. Once out of the city, you can head to the coast towards <a data-place-id="309" data-internal-link="place">Paracas</a>, also known as the alternative Galapagos. For an unforgettable experience, head south to Nazca, where you can book a flight and see the ancient and fascinating Nazca Lines from above. Wherever you go during your one week in Peru, you’re never more than a stone’s throw away from some ancient archaeological site, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled, as visits these sites are perfectly suited for quick day trips. Definitely stop into anywhere you can in between destinations, and allow time in your itinerary to do this. Peru boasts some of the most quaint and beautiful architecture in South America, and you genuinely never know what treasures you’ll find down the side streets and alleys that wind through the towns. Peru has a vast network of very well put-together museums, with fascinating Inca artefacts and cultural insights that make you appreciate the place so much more. If you can, do a homestay up in the mountains. Not only are the Andeans the most friendly and accommodating people you will have ever met, but getting a genuine insight into the traditional Peruvian and Andean way of life is a once in a lifetime experience and you will not regret it. <h4>What to do in one week</h4>Peru is a large country, and so to make the most out of your 7 days in Peru, it will require a certain amount of planning. Further south, explore towns such as <a data-place-id="301" data-internal-link="place">Arequipa</a>, also known as the White City. As you get closer to the mountains, visit the hot springs at Lares, said to have healing properties. Once in <a data-place-id="25218" data-internal-link="place">Cusco</a>, the ancient capital of the Inca empire, wander through its beautiful streets and bring home a few souvenirs, you won’t be short of choice as the textiles industry is booming here and beautiful handmade objects come at a much lower price than back home. Take a day trip to the famous Rainbow Mountains, just a few hours from Cusco, or even take a whack at the Inca Trail if your itinerary allows. If the four day trek isn’t for you, you can do the shorter trek of Huayna Picchu, or even take the train up to Aguas Calientes and hike a few hours up to the ancient mountain-top city from there. Sand boarding and buggying is popular when travelling near the desert, and if you have time to head north, take a boat trip on the Amazon at Tambopata Reserve, or any of the reserves around <a data-place-id="3957" data-internal-link="place">Iquitos</a>. EAT! The best foods are ceviche, a kid of seafood broth marinated in citrus juice; Cuy, aka, guinea pig, which has been eaten in Peru for centuries; Alpaca, which is gamier than beef and very lean; anything with corn, which is grown in many varieties all around Peru. DRINK! Pisco sours, a local cocktail which is everywhere in Peru, and Inka Cola, a bright yellow sugary drink that is to Peru what Coke is to America. <h3>Best time to travel to Peru for a week</h3>Peruvian winter - May to September - is the driest season, and <a href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/peru/holidays/when-to-go/" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/peru/holidays/when-to-go/"></a><a data-document-id="3378" data-internal-link="article">the best time to make the trip to Peru</a> if you are planning to visit Cusco or hike the Inca Trail, which is closed annually for maintenance in February. The summer in Peru, November - March, is the wettest season, with frequent heavy showers which can make travelling in certain areas difficult. Be warned that Lima is extremely hot and humid in the summer and is usually covered in a thick fog called La Garua, however, if you are planning on visiting the coast, the weather is much nicer further along, the beaches are warm and sunny and temperatures are great for swimming.

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One week in Peru

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The best local travel agencies in Peru for hiking and trekking tours

Tour ideas for hiking and trekking in Peru

The best hiking and trekking tours and excursions in Peru, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Trekking in Peru

Hiking & Trekking

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The best local travel agencies in Peru for train tours

Tour ideas for exploring Peru by train

The best train tours to explore Peru, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Peru by train

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The best local travel agencies in Peru for history and heritage tours

Tour ideas for visiting Peru's historical sites

The best tailor-made tours to see Peru's historical sites, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Historical sites in Peru

History & Heritage

History Tours in Peru | Peru's Best Historical Sites

The best local travel agencies in Peru for three week tours

Three week tour ideas in Peru

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Three weeks in Peru

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The best local travel agencies in Peru for Spring tours

Spring tour ideas in Peru

The best tailor-made tours to visit Peru in Spring, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Chavin De Huantar Holidays

Chavin De Huantar: How to get there?

Chavin De Huantar: See when to go?

Chavin De Huantar: For how long?

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Peru: our articles for your holidays