Welcome to Peru

Peru’s beauty shines year-round, but the best time to visit truly depends on which regions you plan to explore. This is a land of incredible geographical diversity, and with that comes a wide range of climates.

Lima (Coastal Region): Lima enjoys a mild desert climate.

– December to April (Summer): Warm and sunny days are typical, with average temperatures ranging from the high 60s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (around 19-27°C). This is the best time for beach getaways.

– May to November (Winter): Expect cooler temperatures, often with overcast skies and a light drizzle. Average temperatures range from the low 60s to the low 70s °F (around 16-22°C).

Cusco & Machu Picchu (Andean Highlands): The climate here is defined by wet and dry seasons.

– April to October (Dry Season): This is the best time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu. Expect sunny days, clear blue skies, and cooler nights. Daytime temperatures typically range from the low 60s to the low 70s °F (around 16-22°C), while nighttime temperatures can drop to near freezing.

– November to March (Wet Season): Rainfall is common, and some trails, including the Inca Trail, may be closed in February for maintenance.

The Amazon Jungle: The Amazon rainforest is hot and humid throughout the year.

– December to May (Wet Season): Expect high rainfall and humidity. Rivers are at their highest, which is great for boat travel and wildlife spotting in flooded areas. Average temperatures hover around the mid-80s °F (around 29-30°C).

– June to November (Dry Season): While still humid, rainfall is less frequent. This is a good time for jungle hikes as trails are less muddy. Temperatures remain similar to the wet season.

In summary: For the classic Cusco and Machu Picchu experience, aim for the dry season (April to October). For the Amazon, both seasons offer unique experiences, so your preference for rainfall levels will be the deciding factor.

Peru is generally considered a safe country for tourists, and is how we have experienced it ourselves always. Like any popular travel destination, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings and take some common-sense precautions:

– Be mindful of your belongings: Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas like markets. Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

– Be cautious with taxis: It’s best to use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps.

– Be aware of altitude sickness in the highlands: Take it easy on your first day in Cusco or other high-altitude locations. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities.

– Stick to bottled water: Tap water is generally not safe for drinking, so we recommend carrying your reusable water bottle always.

– Be cautious with street food: While tempting, avoid street food to prevent stomach diseases.

The cost of a trip to Peru can vary significantly depending on your travel style, the level of luxury you desire, and the regions you visit. However, for a truly immersive experience that includes all guided tours and great accommodations, you should budget accordingly.

As a general guideline, you can expect that any full day of activities with guided tours in Peru will start from around USD 400 per person. This would typically include transportation, entrance fees to sites, and the expertise of a local guide who will bring the history and culture of Peru to life, on top of accommodation.

Peru can be a fantastic destination for families with children, offering a blend of adventure, history, and culture that will captivate all ages. Imagine exploring ancient ruins, encountering fascinating wildlife in the Amazon, and learning about a rich and vibrant heritage.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning a family trip to Peru:

– Altitude: The high altitude of Cusco and the surrounding areas can affect children more significantly. Allow ample time for acclimatization and consult your pediatrician before traveling.

– Activities: Choose age-appropriate activities. Short hikes, visits to animal sanctuaries, and interactive museum exhibits can be great options.

– Food: Peruvian cuisine is diverse, but it’s good to have some familiar options available for picky eaters. Many restaurants offer international dishes alongside local fare.

We understand the unique needs of families traveling together, as we usually travel with our own kids. We can help you design an itinerary that is both engaging for children and enriching for adults, ensuring a memorable and stress-free family vacation in Peru.

Peru is well-connected internationally, primarily through its capital city, Lima. The Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima is the main gateway for most international travelers.

– Direct Flights: Many major airlines offer direct flights to Lima from cities across North America, Europe, and South America. Common departure cities include Miami, New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Houston, Amsterdam, Madrid, and Santiago.

– From Santiago, Chile: For our guests already in South America or considering a multi-country trip, there are frequent and convenient flights from Santiago, Chile, to Lima or directly to Cusco. The flight duration is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.

Once you arrive in Lima, you can connect to domestic flights to other destinations within Peru, such as Cusco, Arequipa, or Iquitos (for the Amazon).