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Introducing Peru

Peru is a country steeped in culture and natural beauty. From the lush Amazon Jungle to the sacred peaks of the Andes, down whitewater rivers that carve their way toward the South Pacific, Peru has endless regions and highlights to explore. 

Where should I go?
Most travelers come to Peru to see Machu Picchu, the iconic ruins perched high above the Urubamba River, yet this is just a small glimpse into what Peru has to offer. One could spend over a week exploring the other ruins of the Sacred Valley, a corridor of villages, mountain peaks, and hiking routes above the Urubamba River. Travelers can also experience the Peruvian Amazon along the border of Brazil, which gives birth to many of the mighty tributaries of the Amazon River, full of wildlife, indigenous cultures, and pristine wilderness. The north of Peru, still undiscovered by mainstream tourism, rewards any traveler who ventures off the beaten path with untouched ruins and vistas. Then down along Peru's West Coast, past beautiful beaches with year-round surfing, you'll arrive at the mysterious Nasca lines, immense geoglyphs carved into the desert sand. Learn more

When is the best time to visit? 
Every region in Peru is a bit different. May is one of the best months to visit the Sacred Valley - it marks the end of the rainy season, and travelers can beat the crowds that arrive from June to August. September to November are the best months for wildlife viewing in the Amazon, and November offers some of the best surfing along the Peruvian coast. Learn more

Things to do in Peru
Peru is a great destination for outdoor activities as well as cultural exploration. Trekking, rafting, and biking are all popular activities. The Sacred Valley offers some of the best outdoor activity options in Peru - you can learn more here. If you're looking for a more relaxed trip focused on culture and history, get inspired by these itinerary ideas.

Getting around in Peru
Distances in Peru are very large, so domestic flights (for example from Lima to Cusco to reach Machu Picchu) are typically part of itineraries in Peru. Learn more

How many days do you need to visit Peru? 
No matter how much time you have in Peru, whether it's just a few days or a few weeks, this country can offer some unforgettable experiences. With just five days, it's possible to visit the national highlights of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. With a week or more the experiences just get better, allowing you time for historic cities and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Learn more

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Peru Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Machu Picchu
Map of Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

If you’re looking for the best way to hike the Inca Trail, this classic route offers a unique approach which avoids the main crowds, and follows the ideal schedule for timing your visit to Machu Picchu.

Salkantay peak as seen during the Salkantay trek
Map of Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The Salkantay trek is one of Peru’s best alternatives to the Inca Trail. Trek over a beautiful mountain pass at the foot of Mt. Salkantay before stopping at a local organic coffee plantation, followed by a visit to the Llactapata ruins. Finally, get up early the last day to catch sunrise at the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu
Map of Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain Adventure - 6 Days
Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain Adventure - 6 Days

Explore the essential highlights of Peru's Sacred Valley, including visits to Cusco and Machu Picchu. Then, journey through a land of wild desert landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and herds of alpacas to arrive at your ultimate destination: the rainbow-painted slopes of Mount Vinicunca hidden deep in the Andes.

Uros floating island on Lake Titicaca
Map of Essential Peru - 14 Days
Essential Peru - 14 Days

From the Nazca Lines to Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, and Machu Picchu, this 14-day itinerary takes you to Peru's major highlights. Fly over the Nazca Lines - some of the world's most impressive geoglyphs, then spend some time exploring the metropolitan city of Lima before heading out to explore the colonial city of Arequipa. Next, explore Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons, then head out to Lake Titicaca - a place rich with history, culture, and natural beauty. Finally, head to the Inca capital of Cusco and explore colorful textile markets and small towns of the Sacred Valley, and hike the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Looking down on the city of Cusco
Map of Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour - 7 Days
Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour - 7 Days

Explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu on this epic one week adventure. While in the Sacred Valley, you'll get to choose from a selection of great adventures, including mountain biking, horseback riding, or zip-lining. 

Caravan in Cordiliera Huayhuash
Map of Cordillera Huayhuash - 9 Days
Cordillera Huayhuash - 9 Days

Explore the Cordillera Huayhuash on this 9-day adventure through one of the most impressive regions of the Peruvian Andes. This is one of the lesser-known and uncrowded treks due to the remote location of this beautiful mountain range.

Make the Most of Your Time in Peru

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Checkout the Uros Floating Islands and visit Puno on Lake Titicaca
How Many Days to Spend in Peru

No matter how much time you have in Peru, whether it's just a few days or a few weeks, this country can offer some unforgettable experiences. With just three or four days and...

Explore famed Machu Picchu on all but four of the following one-week itineraries
Map of 1 Week in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In seven days, it's easy to combine Machu Picchu with day trips within the Sacred Valley or with a visit to another region like the Amazon Rainforest or Lake Titicaca. Trekkers...

Famous view of the Lost City of Kuélap, near Chachapoyas, Peru
Map of 10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in Peru is an excellent amount of time to enjoy a well-rounded introduction to the country's highlights on a tour featuring Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, and the Amazon,...

See how many parrots you can count at Parrot Clay Lick on an adventure into the Amazon
Map of 2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

A two-week visit to Peru allows travelers to comfortably combine Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley with one of the country's more remote regions. Enjoy the culture and history...

Peru Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
Ruins at Ollantaytambo in Peru's Sacred Valley
Best Time of Year to Visit Peru

Each region of Peru has its own weather patterns and trip-planning considerations. The busy season for Machu Picchu, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley runs from June-August, and...

Agricultural terraces surrounding the ruins
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu and its surrounds offer a variety of seasonal outdoor activities and phenomenal festivals throughout the year. For ideal weather (bright, dry and cool), you'll want...

View of Machu Picchu
Top 10 Places to Visit in Peru

From ancient Inca ruins to the mysterious Nazca Lines, snow-capped peaks to dense Amazonian jungle: Peru is one of the world's most diverse destinations. That diversity is also...

Spectacular mountain scenery in the Sacred Valley © Kiki Deere
Best Activities in Peru

Peru’s spectacularly varied landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities and sports: trekking, rafting and mountain biking are just a handful of the activities...

Peru Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
Machu Picchu - the perfect set
5 Movies to Watch Before Your Trip to Peru

Grab some popcorn! Your adventures in Peru will be even more fulfilling if you take the time to watch a film or two before you begin the trip. And these comedies, biopics, and...

Train at Abra la Raya on the Cusco to Puno Line
Peru's Best Train Rides

All aboard! Trains are a practical solution for traveling in Peru: they transport travelers between key destinations around the country, and they're also a wonderful way to take...

Peru Destination Guides

Detailed travel guides for the main regions of the country
Cusco, historic capital of the Inca Empire, by night
24 Hours in Cusco

Cusco has been a bastion of Peruvian culture since its founding in the 12th century. Today, it's a sophisticated city filled with fabulous museums, galleries, restaurants, and...

Estancia El Chillo, Amazonas Region
Northern Peru: Everything You Need To Know

While the majority of travelers head straight for Machu Picchu in southern Peru, the North remains a hidden gem for those willing to venture off-the-beaten-path. You'll have...

Paragliding over the plush neighborhood of Miraflores in Lima
24 Hours in Lima

Lima offers history, world-class museums, an unbeatable foodie scene, and the second-largest cityscape in South America. Not sure where to start? To the rescue: a foolproof plan...

Peru Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Cusco
Antigua Casona San Blas
5.0
(26)
· Comfort
Located in Cusco's artisan neighborhood of San Blas, Antigua Casona San Blas offers a peaceful stay within a five-minute walk from the city center. San Blas is Cusco's oldest, continuously lived-in neighborhood, where you can find numerous artisan galleries, quaint coffee shops, and delicious...
Tambopata
Refugio Amazonas Lodge
4.9
(11)
· Mid-range
Refugio Amazonas is a rustic retreat set deep within the rainforest, surrounded by the beauty of the Tambopata National Reserve. This secluded 32-bedroom jungle lodge is about two hours from the Puerto Maldonado Airport in southeastern Peru. You can easily explore nearby attractions such as Lago...
Puerto Maldonado
Tambopata Research Center
4.8
(5)
· Comfort
Tambopata Research Center is a lodge within the Tambopata National Reserve in Madre de Dios, Peru, making it one of the most remote lodges in South America. The lodge is situated in front of the Bahuaja Sonene National Park and is surrounded by the best wildlife the Peruvian Amazon jungle has to...

Best Experiences in Peru

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
The Plaza de Armas, Cusco
Cusco
Cusco City Tour
4.9
(17)
5 hours
·
Private
Cusco isn't just an impressive Spanish-colonial city in Peru's southern highlands. It's also the historic capital of the Inca empire. Today's tour begins at the indoor San Pedro Market, in the heart of the colonial center. This is as authentic a Peruvian experience as it gets, since locals come...
Peruvian ceviche
Lima
Lima Food Tour
5.0
(12)
5 hours
·
Small group
One of the best ways to discover Peru's capital city of Lima is through its food. With an eclectic combination of indigenous, African, Asian, and European culinary influences, Lima is one of the world's most impressive gastronomic and cultural centers. This food tour begins early in Lima's...
Machu Picchu
Sacred Valley
Machu Picchu Tour
4.9
(22)
6 hours
·
Private
The ruins of the 15th century Incan citadel of Machu Picchu (which translates to "old mountain") were largely hidden to the outside world until the early 20th century. Today over a million visitors flock to this UNESCO World Heritage Site each year. They come to see a masterpiece of ancient...

Our Latest Peru Content

Lounge poolside with views of Colca Canyon on a southern Peru luxury adventure (photo courtesy of Belmond Las Casitas)
2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Private drivers, luxury trains, and well-appointed cruise ships ensure you can visit Peru's cities, jungles, and mountains in two weeks—and in style. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting monkeys and other critters from their private Jacuzzi on an Amazon cruise. Active travelers can overnight in a cliffside capsule in the Sacred Valley, tackle high-altitude trekking in Colca, and sandboard in Ica. Those seeking a rejuvenating journey can try Andean healing treatments and unwind in 5-star spas.

Ride aboard a luxury train to arrive in the high-altitude city of Cusco, en route to Machu Picchu
10 Days in Peru - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Ten luxury days in Peru are perfect for focusing on two or three regions while discovering the country's impressive ruins and natural beauty. Must-see sights include Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, and you can experience all of them during activities catered to your preferences. Wildlife lovers should also include time in the Amazon, while those who love train travel can glide to Lake Titicaca. Paracas, known for its coastal dunes and wildlife, is another superb destination to consider.

On an outdoor adventure in an Amazon reserve, enjoy three nights at the luxury Tambopata Research Center
Map of 1 Week in Peru - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Peru - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With one week in Peru, you can uncover the historical, natural, and cultural wonders of one or two regions while indulging your creature comforts. Must-see destinations for first-time visitors are Machu Picchu and the vibrant cities of Lima and Cusco, while the Peruvian Amazon is an excellent fit for adventure lovers. Other options include a trip down Peru's Pacific coast and a gourmet food tour amid the Andean highlands.

Peru Travel Videos

Peru Travel Specialist Interview - Nicole
Peru Travel Specialist Interview - Clara
Exploring the Sacred Valley

Peru Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 7 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itineraries
2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itineraries
View article
Map 10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Peru
Travel specialist Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
active 1 min ago

Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca

Peruvian delicious food, unique culture, and fascinating history are part of me! And as a good cusqueñian, I am very proud of my culture and heritage. I have lived and worked in the USA and made...

read more...
Travel specialist Johanna Fabian
active 1 hour ago

Johanna Fabian

I enjoy slow travel, ideally being in one country for a month where I can really get to know the local people, their way of life and of course their food! I am Peruvian-American and have traveled...

read more...
Travel specialist Anne Godoy
active 4 mins ago

Anne Godoy

I fell in love with Peru's landscapes, culture, food, and people—not only because of what I learned in college but also because of what I had seen. That passion and love drive me every day to...

read more...
Travel specialist Kristy Tizon
active 46 mins ago

Kristy Tizon

Kristy, a Peruvian-American originally from Los Angeles but now based in Lima, Peru, has a deep passion for travel. She founded Miski Travels, a travel agency that offers customized trips to...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Peru

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Machu Picchu should be on your bucket list.
Peru | May 25 - May 31, 2024

Dorothy
Dorothy J.
Aurora, IL | Reviewed on Jun 03, 2024
All of our guides were excellent. The experience felt like a land cruise. I never felt lost or uncomfortable. People were available to welcome us at each stop and bring us to our next location. Irving met us in Cusco. He gave us many good insights regarding what we could expect. He brought us to local restaurants and an animal sanctuary. Javier was our guide in Machu Picchu. He was extremely knowledgeable of the history and patient with my walking speed. He also helped us a great deal to get... Read more

All of our guides were excellent. The experience felt like a land cruise. I never felt lost or uncomfortable. People were available to welcome us at each stop and bring us to our next location. Irving met us in Cusco. He gave us many good insights regarding what we could expect. He brought us to local restaurants and an animal sanctuary. Javier was our guide in Machu Picchu. He was extremely knowledgeable of the history and patient with my walking speed. He also helped us a great deal to get fantastic photos. Felix brought us through Puno. He also helped us navigate local customs. I learned so much about Peru. The views were breathtaking. I loved all of the trains. It was a wonderful way to experience the Andes. The food and service were also very good. We enjoyed the hotel accommodations. Next time, we will spend additional days in Cusco and Machu Picchu to truly take advantage of everything there is to learn. I wish I had planned more time. I will have to come back.

Hotel Reviews
Aranwa Sacred Valley
Urubamba

This facility is a resort hideaway. I would have needed more time to evaluate all that it had to offer.

Authenticity & Character
The grounds were beautiful.
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
The suite was spacious and fully loaded with a rainwater shower and spa tub.
Holiday Inn Lima Airport
Lima

It was easy to get to the transportation. The rooms were spacious and clean. Breakfast was delicious.

Authenticity & Character
Typical for a Holiday Inn.
Location
Close to the airport.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very nice bathroom.
Local specialist: Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca

Great Job, Kristy
Peru | May 16 - May 28, 2024

Vitaliy
Vitaliy V.
Ashland, CA | Reviewed on Jun 01, 2024
Kristy did great job to create our Peru itinerary and helped us on all stages of trip preparation and even during trip itself. It was very easy to work with Kristy. She even helped with flight rebooking in some cases. All her partners in Peru were very responsible, everything was on time and in according with itinerary. Local guides did great job Read more

Kristy did great job to create our Peru itinerary and helped us on all stages of trip preparation and even during trip itself. It was very easy to work with Kristy. She even helped with flight rebooking in some cases. All her partners in Peru were very responsible, everything was on time and in according with itinerary. Local guides did great job

Hotel Reviews
Casa Andina Premium Puno
Puno

It is absolutely great and unique hotel with their own pier when you catch a boat to travel along lake Tikikaka. Free breakfast exceeds any your expectation, they have everything what you can wish . large rooms, excellent showers, coffee makers and many other useful stuff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
El Mapi by Inkaterra
Lima
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Jungle Domes

It was warm outside , so to sleep in sleeping bag was to hot. But blankets were not provided. Bathrooms were outside that were clean enough.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mountain Sky View

Absolutely perfect place to rest after long challenging hike . Hut shave everything what you need, good bed, space for your stuff, individual bathroom with toilet and shower.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sky Camp

It is much better there than stay in tent, but it was very cold during night in any case. Glass roof doesn't allow to see star sky, although huts have cool design . Outside bathrooms were clean and convenient.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Abittare Hotels
Cusco

Great hotel in very convenient location in Cusco. Reception has cold water, hot water, coca tea and multiple choices of herb teas. Rooms don't have enough furniture where you can put your clothes and other staff. Reception staff are always ready to help you practically with any your problems . Hotel provides fantastic multi choice breakfast

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Kristy Tizon
Kristy
Kristy Tizon
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Jun 02, 2024

Hi Vitaliy,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience traveling with us! I am so glad to hear you and the group enjoyed your time in Peru with us. We look forward to staying in touch for any future travel to South America.

Take care,
Kristy

Genuine Service and Care
Peru | May 1 - May 19, 2024

Peter
Peter W.
Albany, CA | Reviewed on May 21, 2024
We could not be happier with the service we received. From the start, Nicholas was attentive and communicative, providing valuable feedback as we built our itinerary. We had lots of ideas of what we wanted to do, and he helped us organize them in such a way that maximized both our experiences and our time, while offering suggestions that complimented our goals. Where we had pre-booked travel and experiences, Nicholas seamlessly integrated them into our itinerary. And for the bookings we made... Read more

We could not be happier with the service we received. From the start, Nicholas was attentive and communicative, providing valuable feedback as we built our itinerary. We had lots of ideas of what we wanted to do, and he helped us organize them in such a way that maximized both our experiences and our time, while offering suggestions that complimented our goals. Where we had pre-booked travel and experiences, Nicholas seamlessly integrated them into our itinerary. And for the bookings we made with him, where possible, upgrades were offered that significantly enhanced our trip. Our itinerary was clearly presented, with the names and phone numbers of our guides to facilitate our communication. Moreover, the support we received from Nicholas while in Peru was immediate and effective.

Our guides, Nancy, Cesar, and Antonio, were always timely, always engaging, and they were all empowered to help us refine our itinerary further, based upon their own knowledge and experience, and our requests. That level of care and commitment was a true showing of their interest in us, and of their personal pride, both in their roles as guides, and as representatives of their respective cities. Our drivers were personable and safe, as well.

In sum, KimKim was a phenomenal resource to help us put together a memorable Peru experience!

Hotel Reviews
Colca Lodge
Cercado, Yanque

This is a popular hotel in the Colca Canyon. We booked it particularly for the hot springs and the spa, both of which were nice, the hot springs more so than the spa. The restaurant is very good, serving a full breakfast and offering local dishes for dinner. The staff were welcoming and helpful.

Authenticity & Character
The location of the hotel is its chief selling point. While comfortable, the rooms are not particularly memorable.
Location
Situated right next to the river, the hotel is scenic. The hot springs are also situated close to the river, which makes a dramatic backdrop for your time there. You are far away from any other property or facility, though.
Staff
Everyone we interacted with was friendly and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean and cozy!
Palacio Manco Capac by Ananay
Cusco

A historic hotel situated twenty minutes (by foot) from the historic center of Cusco. Our room was very nice and comfortable, however, wifi was extremely poor in the room. It was stronger elsewhere in the hotel. We did not have enough time to make use of the restaurant for any meals, yet, the hotel did put together breakfast boxes for our early morning departure, and they were amply sufficient.

Authenticity & Character
The hotel is in a historic building, and care has been given to maintain that authenticity.
Location
Situated at the top of the hill, views from the hotel are amazing! The walk (downhill) to the historic center of Cusco is easy. The walk back (uphill) to the hotel is a bit tougher!
Staff
All the staff we interacted with were friendly and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Our room was clean and cozy. The only complaint was the wifi - which hardly worked in our room. The signal was better elsewhere in the hotel.
Activity Reviews
Classic Gastronomy Tour - Arequipa
Classic Gastronomy Tour - Arequipa
Arequipa

We had spent several days with our guide, Antonio, already, so he was familiar with our travel style, and our preferences for food and drink. As such, he was able to curate a food tour that was particularly aligned with our tastes (quite literally). We had a great time eating our way around Arequipa, combined with a nice walking tour of the city, and Antonio's lecture points.

Quality of Experience
Our guide made great choices on which places to visit and when. All of our eats were tasty local favorites, representative of the city and region.
Food
We are really well; local dishes in neighborhood cafes and restaurants that were not part of the main tourist circuit.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Antonio was great, setting up a walking and food tour that was on point.
Hike to Chimpa Fortress
Hike to Chimpa Fortress
Colca Canyon

Getting to the starting point for the hike is an adventure in and of itself. It is in the middle of nowhere, in what's already the middle of nowhere! The hike itself is relatively short, but it is steep. If going in the midday sun, bring a lot of water - and trekking poles, though not strictly necessary, are helpful. The fortress itself isn't much, but the viewpoints from it, are spectacular and worth the effort to get to, both in the drive there, and the hike.

Quality of Experience
A great hike to a great viewpoint. The fortress itself is a bit "meh" but that is a small component of a much larger experience.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
As usual, Antonio and Gonzalo did an amazing job of navigating the roads, and sharing the history and significance of the fortress, while also enduring the hike with us!
From {{start_location}} to {{end_location}} via  Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve
From {{start_location}} to {{end_location}} via Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve
Peru

The National Reserve is vast, and unspeakably beautiful. I would say the same of the Sacred Valley as well, but the landscapes here are totally distinct, with different wildlife and vegetation. You can take photos and videos endlessly here, and still fail to capture the magnitude of the area. If you're driving from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon this is a super worthwhile route to take.

Quality of Experience
Truly a wondrous landscape to drive through and make photo stops in. You can't venture far off the road as it is a protected area, but being able to make frequent stops and just "take it all in" is very cool.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide, Antonio, clearly loves this place, and he was eager to point out various wildlife and vegetation unique to the park. Also, he knew the best photo stops, yet was more than willing to accommodate our own requests to make stops to take in the sights.
Transport
Our driver, Gonzalo, was awesome. The road through the park is a two-lane highway, chock full of cars and buses and trucks. He navigated both the road and the traffic supremely well, and didn't get frustrated when we made stops, or asked for them.
Moray Terraces
Moray Terraces
Peru

Like the salt ponds, this is a limited experience. The history of the place is fascinating, and the photography opportunities are good (albeit less so here than at the salt ponds). If you are already in the Sacred Valley, this is a worthwhile stop. But if you are only in Cusco, I wouldn't make the trek to visit these exclusively.

Quality of Experience
A historic Inca ruin with some interesting history, and a cool photo stop. But not much more.
Maras Salt Ponds
Maras Salt Ponds
Sacred Valley

The salt ponds are a wondrous sight. The scale of the development is impressive, and the photography opportunities here are vast, with different colors and elevations to point your camera at. However, that's all this is - a view of some salt ponds.

Quality of Experience
The scale of this place is impressive, and you have an opportunity to point your camera at a stunning backdrop of colors and elevations and textures.
 Pachamanca: Traditional Andean Underground Cooking
Pachamanca: Traditional Andean Underground Cooking
Sacred Valley

The cooking method, and explanation, are good experiences. And the lunch that follows is very good! This is a more commercial enterprise and less personal than I would have preferred. There was a missed opportunity for this to be more inclusive with a tour of the farm (not just the distillery and beanery that were targeted for sales) and to have more interactions with the staff.

Quality of Experience
More commercial than interpersonal. Some missed opportunities for this to be a more engaging and fulfilling experience.
Food
Lunch is really good!
Ollantaytambo Village and Inca Site Exploration
Ollantaytambo Village and Inca Site Exploration
Peru

Olly (for short) is a small town that offers up a lot of sights and experiences. Situated about halfway between Cusco and Machu Picchu, and a stop on the railway between the two, it is easily accessible. There are serval Inca sights to see, and I appreciated getting to ones that were on and off the main tourist circuit. The town itself is very scenic, with a lively marketplace and historic center.

Quality of Experience
Viacha Community Experience & Pisaq Archaeological Site
Viacha Community Experience & Pisaq Archaeological Site
Peru

We wanted to get our hands dirty with the local community, and this experience got us to do just that. From working with textiles to digging up crops, to dancing and sharing a lunch, this was an immersive, personal experience that was really impactful. Pisac is a large archeological site, and it would take more than a day to explore it all. However, our specific hike was tailed to our wants, and we spent a few hours on a 4km trail that got us to incredible vistas and historic sites that were well explained by our guide.

Quality of Experience
This was an impactful experience. Our guide was an able translator for us, but there wasn't much that needed to be spoken, rather, the engagement was in action. We worked with textiles. We worked with farming equipment. We shared a lunch. We danced together. If that's your thing, this is a great experience. Pisac is more of a hike, which is what we wanted, and our guide did a great job of explaining the historic significance of the site.
Food
Our lunch was very good! Sourced locally it was a tasty showcase of the community.
Sacsayhuaman & Cusco Guided Hike
Sacsayhuaman & Cusco Guided Hike
Cusco

Our guide, Cesar, was also amazing! He was enthusiastic and eager to share his knowledge and affinity for Cusco with us. Cusco and its surroundings are historic, beautiful, and widespread. Cesar helped us maximize our time and our experiences by adjusting our itinerary ever so slightly, enabling us to see and do more than what we had planed. His recommendations for restaurants were on point.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Again, Cesar was awesome. We appreciated the time he dedicated to us, and his suggestions that had us see and do more than what we had planned. He was super willing to take photos of and for us, which was great.
Transport
Wilmer did a super job of driving us around. He was polite and friendly, and a competent and safe driver.
Must sees in Lima
Must sees in Lima
Lima

Our guide, Nancy, was awesome! She was punctual, friendly and engaging. More to the point, she figured out very quickly what we wanted to see and experience, and how we wanted to go about doing it. As such, she made on-the-fly adjustments that had us walking through the neighborhoods instead of driving through them, while also showing us to more off-the-path sites and sights, that were better aligned with our interests.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Nancy did a great job of guiding us, and of hosting us. She was adaptive to our requests and to our general method of exploration, ditching our transport for more of a walking tour, with the points of interest and experiences more in line with our personal preferences, as opposed to a set menu of sights.
Transport
We didn't spend much time in the car, but our ride and our driver were both nice!
Welcome to Peru and Lima
Welcome to Peru and Lima
Peru

We were able to find our guide easily, and he helped us with our transfer to our hotel. Along the way, he shared some thoughts about Lima, and its surrounding neighborhoods, all of which were useful. He pointed out various places of interest, and restaurant types that we could consider. He also gave us tips on how our process would go when we returned to Lima airport, to transfer from our domestic flight to our international flight, as we would be doing that on our own.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide and driver were both great. They were on time, easy to find, and helpful.
Transport
Lima traffic can be pretty intense, Our driver handled it with ease!
Local specialist: Nicholas Cino
Nicholas
Nicholas Cino
Local specialist in Peru | Replied on May 22, 2024

Hola Peter! Thanks for taking the time to write sure a detailed review. I really appreciate all your comments it as a pleasure having you with us. Your feedback is very valuable too, rest assured that we will be taking it into account when selecting future activities.
All the best in your future travel! Saludos! Nicholas