Do Inca Expert tours have specific start dates?

No, our Peru tours can start any day of the year. Our trips are fully customizable; you can choose the start and end date of your trip, the specific destinations you want to see, the hotels you prefer, and the tours you want for a unique experience.

How much time do I need to see Peru?

Give yourself at least 4 days in Peru to avoid being affected by altitude sickness when visiting Machu Picchu. Most visitors exploring the iconic sites of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu spend between 7 - 10 days in Peru. If you want to add destinations like the Amazon Rainforest, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa, or the Nazca Lines, allot 2-4 days for each destination depending on the destinations and tours you want.

How do I get to Machu Picchu?

After arriving at Lima's Jorge Chavez International Airport, take an hour and a half flight from Lima to the city of Cusco. In Cusco, a scenic train ride will transfer you 3 hours and 15 minutes to the quaint town of Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu. A 30-minute shuttle bus ascends you to the main entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel. You can also opt to hike one of the famous treks to Machu Picchu from Cusco or the Sacred Valley like the Inca Trail, Lares Trek, or Salkantay Trek instead of the train. We recommend you pace yourself and arrive at Machu Picchu gradually to avoid being affected by altitude sickness. Spending one or two nights in Cusco will acclimate your body to the high altitude and result in a more enjoyable experience at Machu Picchu.

When is the best time to travel to Peru?

The best time to visit Peru is during Peru's winter months between May and September. This is the dry season in the Andes which offers favorable weather patterns for the most popular sites in Peru like Machu Picchu, Cusco, the Inca Trail, and the Amazon Rainforest in Puerto Maldonado. The prime time to visit coastal Lima is during Peru's summer months between December and April to enjoy the warm summer sunshine and coastal beaches.

Do I need a visa to enter Peru?

Travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the European Union, and select other countries do not need a tourist visa to enter Peru. Do note that all travelers must have a passport that is valid for more than six months after your departure date. Upon arrival at Lima's Jorge Chavez International Airport, Peruvian Immigrations will stamp your passport and mark the number of days you are permitted to stay, typically 90 days. For specific information about visa requirements for your country, visit VisaHQ.

Yes, Peru is a safe tourist destination to travel to. Travelers should exercise regular caution by keeping expensive items in your hotel safety box, keeping an eye on personal belongings, and being aware of your surroundings in crowded areas like markets. Our Top Pick hotels are all located in safe, convenient locations and come equipped with safes for storing your valuables. For safety information regarding Covid-19, please review our updated post about coronavirus in Peru. Consult your doctor and visit the CDC Peru website for more information about vaccination recommendations and requirements in Peru.

We think - yes! Lima houses something for every kind of traveler, world-renowned gastronomy that brings travelers specifically to Lima, a UNESCO downtown historic center, top museums like Larco Museum, art galleries, shopping malls overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and adventure activities like paragliding over the Lima skyline or surfing. Since you'll be landing at Lima's Jorge Chavez International Airport anyway, why not add on an extra day in Peru's capital? Contact an Inca Expert travel advisor to see if Lima would be worth adding to your Peru trip.

What language do Peruvians speak?

Spanish is the primary language spoken in Peru as a result of being colonized by Spain in 1533. The indigenous languages of Quechua and Aymara are also official languages of Peru that can be encountered more often in rural areas. Even though English is not widely spoken in Peru, your guides, hotel personnel, and the use of a language translator like Google Translate will make your time in Peru easy. All Inca Expert tours are done in private with English-speaking local guides.

Can you drink the tap water in Peru?

No. Tap water in Peru is not safe to drink unless purified or boiled. Travelers should purchase bottled water. You can also utilize refill stations with boiled or filtered water often available in your hotel lobby. Boiled drinks like coffee and tea are safe to drink.

What is transportation like on Inca Expert's Peru tours?

Inca Expert prearranges all transportation for your Peru tour to give you complete peace of mind. Private, clean, and roomy H1 or Sprinter vans will meet you at your hotels or airport and bring you from A to B. Choose between the Luxury Hiram Bingham train or Vistadome Train to Machu Picchu. If traveling from Lima to the Nazca Lines or Paracas, a VIP bus with large seats and ample leg-room will be reserved in your name.

Do I need to buy a voltage converter/plug adapter for my Peru trip?

You may need to bring a voltage converter and electrical plug adaptor for your electronics when traveling in Peru. Peru uses 220-volt electricity, instead of 110-volts. If your device does not have built-in dual voltage (110V/220V) you will need an adaptor so your electronics do not surge. Most mobile phones, laptops, and cameras have this built-in, but be sure to double-check before plugging in. Most electrical outlets, like the ones in top-rated hotels, are now designed to support both the American flat-pronged plug and the European round-prong plug, but if you plan to charge your devices offsite from your hotel, it will be handy to have a Type C plug adapter just in case.

Can I use ATMs and credit cards in Peru?

Yes. ATMs are abundant in major cities but generally charge a $3-$6 fee to your debit card to use the machine. Locations include BCP, Scotiabank, Interbank, BBVA Continental, and more. Credit cards are widely accepted in Peru with VISA being the major credit card provider. Always keep some Peruvian soles on hand because some locations offer discounts for cash, and local markets and street vendors only accept soles.

It is customary to tip in Peru for exceptional services as you'll receive on a tour with Inca Expert. The exact amount is up to your discretion, but we recommend: Guide: Half-day private tour - 30-35 soles ($8-$10 USD) Full-day private tour - 50-60 soles ($14-$16 USD) Driver: Half-day private tour - 5 soles ($1.50 USD) Full-day private tour - 10 soles ($3 USD) 4-Day Inca Trail/ Multi-day Trekking tour: Guide: 60-80 soles per person ($16-USD 22) Chef: 115 soles collective tip (USD 30 collective tip) Porters: 100 soles per porter collective tip (USD 25 per porter collective tip) Servers: 10% of the total bill

What is the exchange rate?

The exchange rate for US dollars (USD) to Peruvian Soles (PEN) is currently $1 USD to 3.77 PEN. Money can be exchanged at an exchange house (casa de cambio) in any destination in Peru though bigger cities like Cusco, Arequipa, and Lima will have more options to find the best rates.

Will I experience symptoms of altitude sickness on my Peru tour?

40-50% of travelers experience minor symptoms of altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness, like shortness of breath, fatigue, and dizziness when traveling in high altitude destinations in Peru such as on the Inca Trail, in Cusco, Arequipa, and Lake Titicaca. Symptoms of altitude sickness generally alleviate after 24-48 hours in altitude. Best practices for minimizing its impact on your trip include taking the time to acclimate, drinking lots of water, resting, avoiding alcohol, and eating light non-fatty foods upon arrival at altitude. Consult with your doctor before traveling to high altitude destinations.

Peru

Home to the iconic Machu Picchu, Peru captivates travelers with ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes

For unparalleled cultural depth and scenic diversity, embark on any one of our Peru vacation packages. Peru is a country with unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler, from archaeological treasures to natural wonders. The Sacred Valley, Cusco, Lake Titicaca, the Amazon, and the coastal capital of Lima are just a few examples of what makes Peru an essential destination in South America. Discover all of the best things about Peru on a privately guided Peru tour with Inca Expert.

Personalized service

Handpicked hotels

5000+ testimonials

Fully Customizable Tours

Your expert travel advisor will help you build the perfect Peru itinerary complete with private tours, English-speaking guides, individual transportation at every step of the way, and hand-picked hotels based on your preferences for a trip that’s totally tailor-made to you.

Book With Confidence

Postpone your trip at no cost up to 20 days prior with zero fees with open dates. Learn more.

Machu Picchu Tours

Machu Picchu Classic

days

Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

Immerse yourself in the history of Cusco, the lush scenery of the Sacred Valley, and the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu with one week in Peru.

Machu Picchu Express

days

Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

See the world heritage sites of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and tour Machu Picchu on this expedited version of our Machu Picchu Classic.

Galapagos & Machu Picchu

days

Galapagos, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

Our Machu Picchu and Galapagos Tours allow you to explore two UNESCO World Heritage sites in one phenomenal trip. Explore unique wildlife on a luxury Galapagos cruise, then visit must-see places in Peru.

Cusco, Machu Picchu & Lima

days

Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Lima

Explore Lima's UNESCO sites and iconic attractions, then journey to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Marvel at stunning architecture and rich history with this unforgettable tour.

Titicaca & Machu Picchu

days

Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Titicaca

Explore the archeological sites of the Andes. Start in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, then visit the citadel of Machu Picchu. Finish at a luxury lodge on the breathtaking Lake Titicaca.

Amazon to Machu Picchu

days

Amazon, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

Tour through the Peruvian Amazon rainforest with a naturalist guide then explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the famous Machu Picchu.

Andean Highlights

days

Colca Canyon, Cusco, Lima, Machu Picchu & Titicaca

Experience the highlights of the Peruvian Andes by visiting ancient ruins, colonial cities, and floating islands on Lake Titicaca.

Cusco & Classic Inca Trail

days

Cusco, Inca Trail, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

Travel in the footsteps of history by hiking the iconic Inca Trail to the UNESCO world heritage site of Machu Picchu.

Historical Peru

days

Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Nazca, Cusco, Lima & Machu Picchu

This Peru tour package takes you over the mysterious Nazca Lines, around the biodiverse Ballestas Islands, through colonial cities, and to the “Lost City” of the Inca Empire: Machu Picchu.

The Great Regions of Peru

days

Amazon, Colca Canyon, Cusco, Lima, Machu Picchu, Nazca & Titicaca

Experience the full breadth of Peru and Machu Picchu in our most complete Peru tour package. Travel through multiple national reserves, visit world heritage sites, colonial cities, the Amazon rainforest, and the capital city of Lima.

Luxury Amazon Cruise and Machu Picchu

days

Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Amazon Cruise

From the clouds forests of Machu Picchu to the weaving Amazon River, this itinerary will show you Peru's best natural and ancient sites.

Colca Canyon & Machu Picchu

days

Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Cusco, Lima & Machu Picchu

Immerse yourself into both the natural and city life of the Andes. Explore Arequipa, soak in hot springs in Colca Canyon, take a train ride through the lush Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, and discover ancient ruins in Cusco.

Sacred Valley highlights & Machu Picchu

days

Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

Enhance your time in the Andes with 2 consecutive days of Machu Picchu tours. Explore the UNESCO world heritage site in detail after visiting the highlights of Cusco and the Sacred Valley.

Lima, Paracas & Cusco

days

Lima, Paracas, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

From the sky-high marvels of the Nazca Lines to the majestic heights of Machu Picchu—experience the wonders of Peru's ancient mysteries on this incomparable journey.

View all Machu Picchu Packages

Trekking & Hiking Tours

2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

days

Inca Trail & Machu Picchu

Hike the Inca Trail to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu in less time than the Classic 4-day Inca Trail. Spend the night in a luxury Machu Picchu hotel instead of overnight camping.

Inca Trail & Machu Picchu

days

Inca Trail & Machu Picchu

Trek the Classic 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in comfort with a guide, chef, and porters.

2-day Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain

days

Cusco, 2-day Inca Trail, Rainbow Mountain & Machu Picchu

Walk along the famous Inca Trail and watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. Then take a private tour to Vinicunca, also known as the beautiful Rainbow Mountain.

Lares Trek & Machu Picchu

days

Cusco, Lares Trek & Machu Picchu

The Lares Trek is the best trekking option for travelers looking to hike through stunning landscapes and observe Peruvian cultural traditions in remote communities.

Salkantay Mountain Lodge Journey

days

Cusco, Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu

Experience dramatic changes in scenery as you hike through the verdant Sacred Valley by day. By night, retire to deluxe mountain lodging to rejuvenate yourself with luxury amenities.

Choquequirao Trek

days

Choquequirao Ruins

The “sister city” to Machu Picchu, the Choquequirao trek is as off the beaten path as it is awe-inspiring.

Salkantay Adventure Trek

days

Cusco, Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu

Adventure through diverse landscapes on the Salkantay trail, explore the ruins of Cusco and experience Machu Picchu in 9 unforgettable days.

Inca Trail Express to Machu Picchu

days

Cusco, 2 day Inca Trail, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

Combine luxury and adventure with an expedited version of the iconic Inca Trail hike where you will visit the wiñay wayna ruins and the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu.

View all Trekking Packages

Amazon Rainforest Tours

Luxury Amazon Cruise and Machu Picchu

days

Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Amazon Cruise

From the clouds forests of Machu Picchu to the weaving Amazon River, this itinerary will show you Peru's best natural and ancient sites.

The Great Regions of Peru

days

Amazon, Colca Canyon, Cusco, Lima, Machu Picchu, Nazca & Titicaca

Mystic Amazon & Andes

days

Amazon, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Titicaca'

Explore the Amazon rainforest in Puerto Maldonado before flying to Cusco to discover Machu Picchu for yourself. Then, admire the scenery and cultures of Lake Titicaca.

Amazon Lodge

days

Amazon, Lima

Dive into the nature of the Amazon jungle with daily excursions through the rainforest, along the waterways, and into oxbow lakes.

View all Amazon Rainforest Packages

Other Peru Destinations

SACRED VALLEYDiscover

LIMADiscover

PUNODiscover

AREQUIPADiscover

A collage showing a section of cracked earth next to Mil Centro restaurant and the Moray ruins.

A Day In Foodie’s Paradise

Discover the world-renowned restaurant of Virgilio Martinez, the winner of the top chef award.

Enjoy the epitome of destination dining at MIL restaurant in the Sacred Valley.
Experience the soul and flavor of Peruvian cuisine and traverse high-altitude landscapes by only lifting your fork: an expertly crafted, 8-course gastronomic tour through Peru.

Learn more about MIL

Customize Your Trip

Adventure Tours

Peru is a haven for thrill-seekers with epic landscapes that have graced the covers of National Geographic. With endless options for adventure tours, Peru is an incredible destination for adrenaline seekers. Your Inca Expert travel advisor will help you: hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, go horseback riding, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, or on ATV tours in the Sacred Valley. You can include bike tours through the capital city of Lima, hikes into the Colca Canyon, and adventure tours in the Amazon. Get ready for a wild once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

Start Planning

A group of hikers walking along the Inca Trail with a snow-capped mountain off in the distance.

Peru Highlights

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the icon of the Inca Empire, and “New World Wonder” found in Peru. A 15th-century stone citadel nestled in the cloud forests of the Andes Mountains, a trip to Peru isn't complete without seeing this historical site for yourself.

Peru Highlights

Machu Picchu

Amazon Rainforest

Your eyes will widen as you step into the largest jungle in the world. The Amazon Rainforest houses countless species of plants, birds, fish, mammals, and insects. Stay in a comfortable all-inclusive lodge near the Tambopata Research Center in Puerto Maldonado or take a cruise on the Amazon River from Iquitos as you explore the sights and sounds of pristine nature.

The Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is one of the most famous trekking routes in South America. From Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail takes you 26-miles along 500-year old pathways once reserved for spiritual leaders and royalty. The trail only permits 500 people per day (including guides, chefs, and porters) so Inca Trail permits can sell out 6-months in advance.

Cusco

Cusco is the gateway to Machu Picchu and was the capital of the Inca Empire. Impressive archaeological ruins like Sacsayhuaman, Qorikancha, and various Inca temples surround the area offering endless opportunities for exploration. The monumental Inti Raymi festival is held in Cusco every year in June.

A totora reed boat docked next to one of the Uros Islands, also constructed from totora reed.

Lake Titicaca

As the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca offers some of the world's most stunning sunsets while its waters make for panoramic views of the otherworldly Uros and Taquile floating islands. Believed to be the birthplace of the mighty Inca civilization, Lake Titicaca is a cultural and natural wonder in Peru.

Sacred Valley

The aptly named Sacred Valley is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful landscapes you'll pass through on your Peru tour. Adventurers can zip line or thrill in white water rafting tours. Visit the multi-hued Maras salt mines, explore the Ollantaytambo ruins and Pisac market, or embark on the Classic Inca Trail. Rest easy in scenic Sacred Valley hotels overlooking the mighty Andes Mountains before moving onwards to Aguas Calientes and a tour of Machu Picchu.

High rise buildings lining the verdant cliffs of the Costa Verde, with a highway and beaches below.

Lima

The capital city of Lima is the ultimate destination for foodies. Alongside modern skyscrapers visit pre-Incan ruins like Huaca Pucllana, explore award-winning food, the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, government palaces, the historic UNESCO World Heritage city center, a boardwalk overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and artsy bohemian districts. Shop, eat and enjoy a Pisco sour in this lively city.

The Hummingbird, one of the geoglyphs found at the enigmatic Nazca Lines, as seen from the air.

The Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are gargantuan geoglyphs and geometric shapes carved into the arid desert landscapes. They draw in travelers with their grand scale and mystery. Predating the Inca Empire, the Nazca Line geoglyphs are an example of prehistoric art and archeology. Make your own interpretations of their purpose as you soar over, or get a birds-eye view from the observation tower of these magnificent artifacts that reveal stories of civilizations long gone.

Colca Canyon

Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world and offers spectacular views and stunning photos. The lush valley, terraced mountains, natural hot springs, and larger-than-life Andean condors soaring overhead make this a worthwhile stop on your tour of Peru.

Arequipa

Arequipa is a charming colonial town that doesn't feel like the second-largest city in Peru. Nicknamed the white city after the white volcanic stone used in the construction of the city. Arequipans are proud of their unique regional cuisine and invite you to taste the difference. Stone carvings, early cave paintings, and perfectly preserved mummified remains call to lovers of history while views of El Misti Volcano, the white-stone basilica Cathedral in the historical center, and gardens in the city of Santa Catalina Monastery intrigue lovers of beauty.

The sun setting over a several boats in the water off the seaside resort town of Paracas.

Paracas National Reserve

Paracas National Reserve is a unique coastal desert ecosystem brimming with migratory birds, ocean-kissed rock formations, and sea lions resting on every imaginable surface. Choose from activities like ATV rides, bike tours, and boat trips to the Ballestas Islands or lay on the restorative beaches overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Visit intriguing museums with some of the most well-preserved artifacts of the Paracas culture. As one of the first National Reserves in Peru, this protected park is an emblem of Peru's beautiful coastal landscape.

Customize Your Trip

Our Inca Expert travel advisors will help you plan a trip that is perfectly tailored to your interests and preferences.

Collage showing a tourist with a backpack, a view of Machu Picchu, and a map of the Sacred Valley.

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What our clients say

"All in all we had an absolutely amazing time and the trip completely blew my expectations out of the water. The hotels were all fabulous with beautiful views. Thank you sincerely for the trip of a lifetime!"

Aggie Szymanska
CA, USA
Traveled to: Lima, Paracas, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley

"We wouldn’t stop talking about how well executed and planned everything was. I personally loved the Inca trail addition and I am so glad you gave that to us as an option. The hike to Huayna Picchu was also a group favorite."

Natasha Mehta & friends
NY & PA, USA
Traveled to: Cusco, Lares + 2-day Inca Trail Trek, Machu Picchu

"It exceeded my expectations and I loved the people I met there. The hikes were so well organized, food was amazing, and the guides were super caring even getting the cooks to make a cake for me on my birthday on the Lares trek."

Araceli Gutierrez
MO, USA
Traveled to: Lima, Cusco, Lares, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain

"Based on the trip you organized, the historical knowledge, the people, the food, the culture and the natural beauty of Peru, it was simply the best trip I’ve ever taken. This trip will forever be in my memory."

Gilles Verrier
MB, Canada
Traveled to: Lima, Puerto Maldonado, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Lares Trek, Machu Picchu

"Our trip to Peru was nothing short of magnificent. As for our favorite part, we loved it all. Machu Picchu was everything we thought it would be and more. We had a wonderfully successful trip to Peru!"

Steven Kopelic
PA, USA
Traveled to: Amazon, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco

What our clients say

More reviews

Peru

Personalized service

Handpicked hotels

5000+ testimonials

Fully Customizable Tours

Machu Picchu Tours

Machu Picchu Classic

Machu Picchu Express

Galapagos & Machu Picchu

Cusco, Machu Picchu & Lima

Titicaca & Machu Picchu

Amazon to Machu Picchu

Andean Highlights

Cusco & Classic Inca Trail

Historical Peru

The Great Regions of Peru

Luxury Amazon Cruise and Machu Picchu

Colca Canyon & Machu Picchu

Sacred Valley highlights & Machu Picchu

Lima, Paracas & Cusco

Trekking & Hiking Tours

2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Inca Trail & Machu Picchu

2-day Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain

Lares Trek & Machu Picchu

Salkantay Mountain Lodge Journey

Choquequirao Trek

Salkantay Adventure Trek

Inca Trail Express to Machu Picchu

Amazon Rainforest Tours

Luxury Amazon Cruise and Machu Picchu

The Great Regions of Peru

Mystic Amazon & Andes

Amazon Lodge

Other Peru Destinations

A Day In Foodie’s Paradise

Customize Your Trip

Adventure Tours

Peru Highlights

Machu Picchu

Peru Highlights

Machu Picchu

Amazon Rainforest

The Inca Trail

Cusco

Lake Titicaca

Sacred Valley

Lima

The Nazca Lines

Colca Canyon

Arequipa

Paracas National Reserve

Customize Your Trip

FAQ

Do Inca Expert tours have specific start dates?

How much time do I need to see Peru?

How do I get to Machu Picchu?

When is the best time to travel to Peru?

Do I need a visa to enter Peru?

Is Peru safe?

Should I go to Lima?

What language do Peruvians speak?

Can you drink the tap water in Peru?

What is transportation like on Inca Expert's Peru tours?

Do I need to buy a voltage converter/plug adapter for my Peru trip?

Can I use ATMs and credit cards in Peru?

How much do I tip?

What is the exchange rate?

Will I experience symptoms of altitude sickness on my Peru tour?

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What our clients say

What our clients say

Book with confidence

Not quite sure?
Explore all our best selling packages