How to Travel in Peru
Traveling through Peru can be one of the most enchanting experiences on this continent, offering incredible landscapes and trekking paths that thrill adventurers.
Due to recent violence and crime in certain regions, travelers should still exercise extreme caution. Many opt for the convenience and safety offered by Peru Hop’s tourist-specific bus service instead.
Air
Flights are the fastest and easiest way to travel within Peru, particularly between Lima and other areas. Lima itself is a sprawling coastal metropolis where modern city attractions coexist alongside Inca ruins and beaches.
As much of the country lies at higher altitudes, be wary of altitude sickness. Additionally, vaccination against yellow fever, hepatitis, typhoid and rabies should also be undertaken prior to arrival in South America. Be sure to only consume well-cooked or boiled food when dining here.
Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, some travel restrictions remain in Peru. For your own safety and peace of mind, please check the entry requirements with your airline, travel provider or embassy regularly, as restrictions can change quickly. It is wise to inquire as soon as possible with these entities to see whether any requirements exist such as having a PCR test before entering and exiting Peru as well as restrictions in number of days allowed within each trip.
Bus
Peru boasts an alluring combination of landscapes: desert on its west coast, jagged Andes mountains slicing through its center, and lush Amazon rainforest lining its eastern edge. Peru dazzles visitors with its colonial architecture, drawing adventurers to visit legendary Inca sites; but also attracts nature enthusiasts seeking quiet mountain peaks or deep canyons for exploration.
Buses are an efficient and economical means of travel in Peru, offering some of the most efficient routes in South America. Cruz del Sur and Peru Hop offer premium bus services with bilingual hosts onboard as well as convenient online booking systems.
Petty crime can be prevalent at bus stations and cities, so it is wise to keep a close watch over your belongings. Unfortunately, accidents do happen; therefore it is wise to research companies you consider carefully to ensure they have an outstanding safety record.
Car
Buses in Peru offer travelers an economical and efficient means of transportation. Travelers will likely encounter locals aboard micro and combi buses zooming through city streets (although some drivers have become notoriously unpredictable); long distance coaches offer surprising affordable rates along coastal routes.
Train travel can provide a more scenic route between Cusco or Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley town, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu; passengers will delight in watching as verdant valley hills meet Amazon rainforest along the journey. Tickets tend to sell out quickly from one of two operators – Inca Rail or PeruRail.
Motor taxis offer another transportation option in larger cities and towns for short distance travel; though their safety may not match that of buses, their relatively cheap fares make them an economical option. Taxi drivers usually negotiate their fares before offering this form of transport to you.
Train
Train travel is an unforgettable Peruvian experience, offering scenic and atmospheric travel for those with time and a generous budget. While basic economico trains may be overcrowded and lackluster amenities like waiters or restaurants, upgrading to tourist-oriented services provides added comfort, improved viewing experiences and enhanced viewing experiences.
Taxis are an economical, practical solution to traveling around major cities and towns; hail one directly on the street or use rideshare apps like Beat and Uber for better safety and consistent pricing. Please keep in mind that fare increases may increase during rainy seasons; also check ahead if traveling through Amazon region as strikes and protests could arise before making your reservation.
Peru’s iconic train journey connects Cusco to Machu Picchu via the Sacred Valley and parts of the Inca Trail, providing travelers with exquisite fine-dining menus, luxurious armchairs, an observation coach, butler service and unlimited beverages throughout their trip. Enjoy fine dining from gourmet fine-diner chef-owned restaurants while relaxing comfortably while admiring magnificent landscape from your observation coach – and all this for just US$200.00 round-trip! The Hiram Bingham Royal Charter even comes equipped with its own butler who offers unlimited drinks during your travels for added luxury!
