A generic Peru guide tells you where Machu Picchu is. What it can't tell you is which of the 27 ways to see it fits your dates, your pace and your altitude tolerance that is what a planner is for.
Tailored Just for You, With No Fixed Schedule: Every itinerary starts from your travel dates, pace and interests rather than a fixed departure calendar. Adding an extra acclimatization day, swapping the Inca Trail for the train, or extending into the Amazon are routine adjustments, not special requests.
US Support, Experienced Local Specialists: Designed by a US-based travel team with direct access to experienced local specialists and operators across South America so guidance on altitude, permits and timing comes from people who work with these routes directly.
Multi-Country Routing Done Right: Because Lake Titicaca sits on the Peru Bolivia border, itineraries can combine Peru with Bolivia, Ecuador &amp; Gal&aacute;pagos or Chile arranged through a single point of contact rather than separate bookings.
&nbsp;
Built Around Your Group: Itineraries are shaped around who's actually traveling, not a shared group calendar. Whether it's an Inca Trail trek or a slower-paced itinerary for older travelers, the pace, guiding style and hotel choices adjust to fit.

Why Book Your Peru Tour With VA Expeditions

Peru connects naturally to several neighboring countries &mdash; a one-way route often works better than flying in and out of Lima alone.
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Bolivia Tours - Lake Titicaca connects easily onward to La Paz or the Uyuni salt flats.</li>
<li>Ecuador &amp; Galapagos Tours - Bookend your Peru trip with the Gal&aacute;pagos for a wildlife-focused finish.</li>
<li>Chile Tours - From Peru, routes continue naturally into the Atacama Desert or south to Patagonia.</li>
<li>Multiple Destinations Tours - This itinerary includes several Latin American countries in one trip.</li>
</ul>

Combine Your Peru Tour With…

<ul>
<li><a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/blog/peru/the-spectacular-sacred-valley-a-what-to-do-guide">Cusco &amp; the Sacred Valley</a> &ndash; The capital of the Incas and its valley of ruins, markets and villages &mdash; all Peru trips include at least two or three days here before the trip to Machu Picchu.</li>
<li>Machu Picchu &ndash; The Inca ruins and the most popular site in Peru by far, meaning that getting a ticket to Machu Picchu is in the form of a timed entry.</li>
<li>Lima &ndash; The capital of Peru and the epicenter of gastronomy, including such places as Maido, the World's Best Restaurant of 2025.</li>
<li><a href="http://vaexpeditions.com/destination/peru/the-peruvian-amazon-region">The Peruvian Amazon</a>&ndash; The rainforest lodges accessible by boat in either Manu or Tambopata, the most biodiverse areas of rainforest in the world.</li>
<li>Lake Titicaca &ndash; The highest navigable lake in the world and one of the most tranquil places in Peru, with floating islands of the Uros people.</li>
<li>Arequipa &amp; Colca Canyon &ndash; Peru's White City and the Colca Canyon, which is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and renowned for condor watching.</li>
</ul>

Where to Go in Peru

<ol>
<li>See Machu Picchu: There is a limit to the number of people visiting Machu Picchu and this limit is spread across ten scheduled visits through the day. Book tickets as far ahead as you can, particularly for June through August, if you plan to arrive between June and August. </li>
<li>Explore Cusco's historic center. Colonial architecture built on original Inca foundations is visible throughout the city. Most travelers find it worth pacing the first day around altitude adjustment &mdash; save the walking tours for day two, once you are feeling settled.</li>
<li>Hike the Inca Trail. Daily access is capped at 500 people total, which includes trekkers, guides, cooks and porters not 500 trekkers alone. Permits for peak months often sell out months in advance. The Salkantay trek is a strong alternative &mdash; similar scenery, with far more availability.</li>
<li>Visit the Sacred Valley. The two major highlights of the valley are the market of Pisac and the ruins of Ollantaytambo, both of which are situated at a lower altitude than Cusco.</li>
<li>Observe the condors in Colca Canyon. The canyon runs roughly twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and condors ride the morning thermals along its rim. Arrive at dawn sightings drop off sharply after late morning.</li>
<li>Explore the Uros floating islands on your trip to Lake Titicaca. These artificial islands are located at a high altitude of more than 12,500 feet. The combination of visiting these islands and staying in Puno is more beneficial than a short trip from Cusco.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Eat widely while you're in Lima. Maido was named The World's Best Restaurant in 2025, and Lima hosts the World's 50 Best Restaurants ceremony on November 4, 2026 &mdash; the first time the event has been held in South America. Nikkei, Peru's Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine, is worth seeking out; the top spots for it need booking ahead.</li>
<li>Spend a few nights in the Amazon. Manu National Park alone is home to roughly 1,000 bird species &mdash; close to 10% of the world's total. The extension fits most naturally into trips of 10 days or longer.</li>
</ol>

Top Things to Do in Peru

There is no "<a href="http://vaexpeditions.com/blog/peru/the-best-time-to-visit-peru">best time to visit Peru</a>", as each region of the country has a different type of climate, which ultimately depends on the areas that are on your wish list.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu: The dry season lasts approximately from May to September with the busiest months being June through August. April and October are good times to visit as well because they do not fall into the rainy season, which occurs between November and April with January and February being the wettest months.</li>
<li>Lima: Typically, Lima experiences a mild dry climate throughout the year. However, the months between May and November are considered foggy, not rainy.</li>
<li>Peruvian Amazon: November and March are the rainiest months and between June and September the weather becomes much dryer.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Arequipa and Colca Canyon: This region follows the dry-season calendar of Cusco, with May and September being the most favorable for hiking and condor viewing.</li>
<li>Lake Titicaca: May through October brings the clearest skies on Lake Titicaca the best window for photos and island boat trips.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Planning a multi region trip? Late April into May and September into early October tend to balance clear Andean weather against smaller crowds better than the June August peak.

Best Time to Visit Peru

<ul>
<li>Give us your trip information and interests. Adventure trip, family trip, travels related to gastronomy, etc.</li>
<li>We make the itinerary for you. This is done according to your flight time, season of the year and time for adaptation.</li>
<li>We refine it. Timing, pace, accommodation level or the countries included can all be adjusted based on your feedback.</li>
<li>You travel, and we stay available. You have a direct line to your planner and to local guides throughout the trip.</li>
</ul>

How Tailor-Made Peru Travel Works

<h3>Machu Picchu Journeys&nbsp;</h3>
Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century by the Inca emperor Pachacuti and brought to worldwide fame by Hiram Bingham in 1911. Sitting at roughly 7,970 feet &mdash; lower than Cusco &mdash; it makes a comfortable final stop after acclimatizing. Entry operates on a timed-ticket system, with visitors assigned an entry window and a specific walking circuit within the site; this is separate from how you arrive, whether by train and bus from Aguas Calientes or on foot via the Inca Trail or an alternative route like Salkantay or Lares. Circuit and ticket rules change periodically, so current options should be confirmed before booking.
<h3>Inca Trail &amp; Alternative Treks</h3>
The classic Inca Trail covers roughly 26 miles over four days, arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate at sunrise. Daily access is capped at 500 people total &mdash; trekkers, guides, cooks and porters combined &mdash; and permits for peak season often sell out months in advance. The Salkantay, Lares and Ausangate treks offer similarly dramatic scenery with more flexibility on dates.
<h3>Lima &amp; Peruvian Cuisine</h3>
The Peruvian capital has been named one of the top cities for gastronomy worldwide. It hosts Maido, which has won the title of the World&rsquo;s Best Restaurant and will be the venue for the World&rsquo;s 50 Best Restaurants awards in November 2026 &mdash; the first time it will happen in South America. Different from the tasting menus, one can roam around the historic downtown and coastal areas of Miraflores and Barranco and spend 1 or 2 days there before going further into the country.
<h3>The Sacred Valley</h3>
The Sacred Valley is situated lower than Cusco and can be, thus, the first destination which will help tourists acclimatize before the trip to Machu Picchu. The most important local towns are Pisac and Ollantaytambo. The latter is the place where some of the best-preserved Inca sites can be found such as the ruins of the fortress of Ollantaytambo and its gigantic terraces. Most itineraries provide for a stay of 2 or 3 days here to cover the ruins and the weaving settlements and markets.
<h3>The Peruvian Amazon</h3>
The impressive variety of wildlife in the Amazon is exemplified in the lodges of Manu National Park and Tambopata region, which can be accessed on foot or by boat rather than through the park entrance. Manu alone, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, has recorded about 1,000 bird species, which represents almost 10% of the world total. Most visitations to the park are done on a reasonably long cruise of three days or more.
<h3>Lake Titicaca &amp; Arequipa</h3>
The highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca lies at 12,507 feet and is home to the floating reed islands created by the Uros people. Only a few hours away, the center of Arequipa city is built of sillar, a special white volcanic rock making it the White City. In the vicinity, Colca Canyon is twice as deep as Grand Canyon and is the best place in South America to see Andean condors.

What are the Key Locations to Visit In Peru?

Peru comprises an astounding variety of geographical features, including a desert coast, Colca Canyon, twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and renowned for condor watching, the highest navigable lake in the world and a segment of the Amazon rainforest that is so rich in biodiversity that Manu has recorded approximately 10% of bird species in the world. Most people who travel to Peru for the first time center their trips around Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, which is a good choice, but spending extra time exploring the Amazon, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa and Colca Canyon can add great value to the trip: instead of saying, "We saw Machu Picchu," travelers will be able to say, "We saw how different Peru is from one region to another."
Peru combines naturally with neighboring countries, and many itineraries are built that way. Lake Titicaca, which borders Bolivia, is a great addition to either La Paz or the Uyuni salt flats. A trip to Peru can also open up or conclude in Ecuador for a visit to the Galapagos Islands or be continued south into Chile. A travel team based in the U.S. works closely with local experts in Cusco, Lima and the Sacred Valley to develop the itinerary to fit within the timeframe available, degree of altitude, and how much of Peru you want to visit.

Based on the area, the best time to go varies. For instance, the Andes (Cusco and Machu Picchu) are dry between May and September, the Amazon stays dry during the period between June and September and the weather in Lima is mild regardless of the season.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

When is the best period to go to Peru?

Peru is generally safe for travelers who take the same precautions they'd use in any major city particular awareness around belongings in crowded tourist areas like central Lima and Cusco.

Is Peru safe for travelers?

Yes. Machu Picchu operates on timed entry with a daily visitor cap, and tickets should be booked as far ahead as possible, especially for June&ndash;August travel. The classic Inca Trail is limited to 500 people per day total, including guides, cooks and porters. If your dates are flexible, the Salkantay trek is a good alternative with more availability.

Do I need to book Machu Picchu or Inca Trail permits in advance?

Most travelers notice it. Cusco sits at 11,152 feet. Symptoms are usually mild &mdash; shortness of breath, tiredness, an occasional headache. A rest day on arrival before anything strenuous, plenty of water, and going easy on alcohol for the first day or two all help. Travelers with heart or lung conditions should speak to a doctor before the trip.
&nbsp;

Will I feel the altitude in Cusco?

US citizens do not require a visa for tourism and are typically granted stays of up to 90 days on entry, with a maximum combined stay of 183 days per 365-day period.

Do I need a visa for Peru?

If your trip centers on Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, seven days is comfortable. Adding the Amazon, Lake Titicaca or Arequipa takes most itineraries to ten days or more, largely because of internal flight times and the acclimatization days worth building in around Cusco.
&nbsp;

How many days do I need for a Peru tour?

Yes. Itineraries are built around who's actually traveling &mdash; families can swap the Inca Trail trek for the train to the same destination, while 50+ or slower-paced travelers can add rest days between Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
&nbsp;

Is Peru a good fit for families or travelers 50 and older?

Yes. Itineraries can be built at a private, premium level from boutique lodges in the Sacred Valley to private guiding throughout and paced for families or travelers 50 and older.

Do you offer private or luxury Peru tours?

Yes. Lake Titicaca connects easily to Bolivia, and Peru also works well as a start or end point for a trip that includes Ecuador and the Gal&aacute;pagos.

Can I combine Peru with Bolivia or Ecuador?

You can check our safety protocols in the following link: https://www.valenciatravelcusco.com/notification/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-travel-alert

What are the health and safety protocols used during the trip?

We do not include travel or health insurance and we strongly recommend a comprehensive travel insurance for any unexpected circumstances. This is not obligatory, however. An full travel insurance policy that covers cancellations and delays as well as medical insurance.

Do I need travel insurance? What insurance do you recommend?

We suggest that you speak with your doctor to ensure that you are up-to-date with the recommended vaccinations when traveling to the destination. In any case, a negative Coronavirus Molecular Test (PCR) is needed to enter the country.

What vaccinations do I need for the trip?

We suggest that you speak with your doctor to ensure what medications you will need to bring to the destination. Pharmacies and drugstores are common in all cities, however, it is not certain that you will be able to find a specific drug that you can find in your country of origin.

Which medications should I bring from home?

As in any city in the world, there can be pickpockets in crowded places. We suggest being vigilant at all times, but if you are in a group you will always be safer.

How safe is the destination?

We do not include the cost of any domestic or international flight in any of our programs. These services must be booked independently by each guest.

Are flights included in the tour?

Yes, hotels will charge the cost of a double room as standard, so a single supplement will be charged if you are traveling alone.

If I travel alone will I be charged a single supplement?

VA Expeditions is supported by Valencia Travel, a company with more than 12 years of foundation with a solid financial position. We have insurance from the insurance company La Positiva, that supports us and protects our guests from any eventuality at the destination, covering our guests for more than 5 million US dollars.

Is it safe to book with VA Expeditions?

Each trip is customizable, but there may be additional restrictions and expenses in each case. We suggest contacting your sales representative for more information.

Can the packages on the website be customized?

Yes, in addition to multi-day programs, we offer half-day experiences and excursions without overnight, which you can purchase as additional services. In case you wish to purchase one of these services, you can ask your guide, the transfer representative or your sales representative to provide you with the support you need.

Do you offer only multiday packages or do you also offer day trips?

Yes, you can add additional or optional services to your regular tour. We appreciate contacting your sales representative for any changes you wish to make.

Can I purchase additional services after I have made my reservation and paid?

Yes, you can travel with children and we have many activities to do as a family, however, depending on your itinerary, some experiences can be a bit demanding for young children. As a recommendation, we suggest that you ask your sales consultant if the tour you wish to book is suitable for children.

Can I travel with children? Are there age restrictions?

We work with a maximum group size of 12 passengers for sustainability reasons and a more personaized experience.

How big are the group sizes?

We suggest making your reservations at least one month before your trip in order to reserve the best hotels, transportation and services for your travel dates, however, in last minute cases, we can reserve up to 15 days in advance.

How far in advance should I book a package?

We suggest consulting with your embassy to review any documents, tests or special visa you need for your trip.

What documents do I need for my trip?

The official currency in Peru is the peruvian sol (PEN). In large cities there is a good chance that you will find ATMs or ATMs, however, we suggest that you do not rely entirely on this solution, as it may not be enabled to work with your bank.

What kind of currency do they use at the destination? Are ATM easily accessible?

Yes, we cater for all special dietary requirements. Please let us know at the time of booking if you have any allergies or special dietary needs.

I have dietary restrictions. Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?

As a sustainable travel company, we are in constant search of how we can improve the sustainability of our operations, that is why we carry out the following activities to generate a fair and sustainable development in our areas of operation: <a href="https://valenciatravelcusco.com/pages/sustainability">https://valenciatravelcusco.com/pages/sustainability</a>

What does the company do for the sustainability of its operations?

Tips are not included in the cost of the tour. You should plan to tip 10% in restaurants and for your guided services, however, tipping is never required.

Are tips included in the price? If not how much should I budget for tips?

Cultural norms vary within each Latin American country, even within each city within the country, however, we recommend the following measures to have a pleasant visit in each destination: Latin American culture in general tends to be closer and more informal than in others cultures, so there is usually always a friendly approach in all conversations, and going directly to the point could be considered offensive to some people. Personal space can be much shorter as well, but without being interpreted as sexual in nature.&nbsp;
The schedules are also usually more relaxed and informal, however, this is not the case of VA EXPEDITIONS / VALENCIA TRAVEL, since we will always respect the hours indicated in your itinerary. This may be different for other appointments that you can book on your own at other locations.

What general norms of culture should I take into account at the destination?

This depends on each itinerary, and will be indicated in the detail of the day. However, our itineraries always usually include free times to offer more flexibility to our guests.&nbsp;

How much free time will I have during the tour?

For any emergency, we appreciate contacting the following number: +51 979 706 464

What number can I contact if I have an emergency during my trip?

At VA Expeditions we believe that every action we take should generate a positive impact on the communities and the environment of our entire production chain, which is why we carry out various activities focused on this objective. Please ask your travel specialist for more information on our sustainable programs.

What sustainable activities can I do at the destination?

All our guests have 24/7 support for any type of emergency or eventuality. For emergencies you can contact the following number: +51 979 706 464. For general inquiries, you can write to us at the following email: info@valenciatravelcusco.com&nbsp;

What kind of support will I receive during my trip?

This depends on each itinerary, but generally is a ratio of one guide for every nine guests.

How many guides will there be on my trip?

This depends on the type of the type of Travel insurance that the passenger has. We recommend that you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy for better care and hospital facilities.

What happens in the event of a medical emergency?

The tours are carried out by an expert team that has determined the optimal times of visits to make the most of our guests' time, without rushing. All our programs are customizable, so if at any time at the destination you want to adjust the pace of the trip, you can ask your guide to reach a consensus with the whole group in case you need to make adjustments to the pace of the trip.

What kind of pace can I expect on a tour?

How flexible is my itinerary already being at the destination?

Yes, you can safely store any luggage at your&nbsp; hotel.

Can I leave my main luggage somewhere safe during my excursions?

For city tours, there are public bathrooms available, in remote destinations bathroom facilities are more sparse.

Are there bathroom /toilet facilities during the tour?

In the mountains and remote places there is no Internet connection. Hotels and public places usually have WIFI available.

What is the internet /WIFI availability during the tour?

In cities and tourist centers you will have good telephone reception. In remote areas, there may be no cell phone reception.

Will there be cell phone reception during the tour?

It depends on each itinerary. We suggest contacting your account representative to give you specific information regarding your&nbsp; program.

What is the highest altitude we will reach during the tour?

We suggest that you bring a refillable water bottle or purchase bottled water if necessary. Depending on your destination, at various points on your trip there will be places where you can fill your water bottle.

What hydration options do I have on tours at the destination?

Thank you very much for your interest! You can follow us on our networks:
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How can I keep up to date of your news and information?

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Machu Picchu is one of Peru's most visited destinations, and the way you reach it shapes the whole trip. You can hike the Classic Inca Trail, take a shorter trek on its final section, follow an alternative route such as Salkantay or Lares, or travel by train to Aguas Calientes and continue by bus to the site. Each option differs in length, physical demand, and how far ahead you need to book.
VA Expeditions is a US-based team that works with local specialists in Cusco to build Machu Picchu trips around your dates, fitness level, and time in Peru. Itineraries include time to acclimatize in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, and your planner helps you choose a ticket route and entry time that fit what you want to see. Permits, site entry, and train space are controlled by government agencies and transport operators, so availability varies by date and early planning helps.

Machu Picchu

About 60% of Peru's national territory lies within the Amazon basin and the country holds an estimated 11% of the total Amazon rainforest second only to Brazil. Within that stretch of rainforest, three very different Amazon experiences exist side by side: Manu National Park's cloud-forest-to-lowland biodiversity, Tambopata's clay licks near Puerto Maldonado and Iquitos, a river city reachable only by boat or plane. Each region has its own access route, season and trip length so choosing the right one depends less on "the Amazon" as a single destination and more on which of these three fits your itinerary.

Visiting Peru&rsquo;s Manu National Park is like going back to the origins of life. As one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/15-day-the-best-of-magical-peru-amazon">Manu National Park</a> ,is an unexplored paradise with untouched&nbsp; indigenous cultures and incredible animal and plant species. Manu National Park is home to more than 4,000 animal species and 20,000 different plants, and the Manu National park covers an incredible 1.7 million hectares (4.2 million acres). You can see the famous otorongo (jaguar) resting on a tree, or meet the wonderful Machiguengas people who have welcomed you into their sanctuary; seeing Manu is a privilege that very few of us get to see.

Manu National Park

Puerto Maldonado is a city in southeastern Peru in the Amazon rainforest 55 kilometres (34 miles) west of the Bolivian border, located at the confluence of the Tambopata and <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/14-day-colours-of-peru">Madre de Dios</a> rivers.The eco-lodges in the Amazon offer some of the best ways to see wild species in their natural habitats of this part of the Amazon basin. The parrots on a clay lick, the giant river otters on an Oxbow lake and a jaguar sunning itself in the banks of the river are only some of the wildlife species on offer in this part of the Amazon. Sailing down the river on a slow boat to the lodge offers excellent caiman spotting opportunities and a visit to a local herbal shaman will let you know some of the natural cures and Amazon potions of this super ecologically diverse area of Peru.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Puerto Maldonado/Tambopata

Iquitos is Peru&rsquo;s premier jungle destination and the gateway to the great Amazon rainforest. There are endless exciting activities to keep an adventurous traveler busy in Iquitos. Whether it be delving deep into the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/12-day-amazon-luxury-and-machu-picchu">Amazon</a>, or hanging out in the city of Iquitos, it is a place where boredom doesn&acute;t come into the equation. Butterfly enthusiasts rejoice, Iquitos has one of the best butterfly farms on the continent; The Amazonian Manatee Rescue Centre is the place to get to know these graceful endangered species up close and personal; have an interractive experience with indigenous jungle communities; see one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, Iquitos is unique, bold, beautiful and different!

Iquitos

60 % of Peru is part of the Amazon and the Amazon basin and is the most biodiverse rainforest in the world.

The Peruvian Amazon Region

This mecca for adventurers offers some of the best trekking in the world with routes like the Laguna 69, Huaywash, Santa Cruz trek and the Pastoruri glacier. Just remember to acclimatise well, to make the most of the astounding trekking in the area. The mountain views, glaciers and turquoise lakes are nature&rsquo;s way of making us step back and appreciating these natural marvels in all their beauty. If trekking and mountain climbing are on your list of highlights in Peru then a trip to The <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/12-day-cord-blanca-climbing-alpamayo-mountain-5947">Cordillera Blanca</a>, is a must!

The gateway to the spectacular <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/12-day-cord-blanca-climbing-alpamayo-mountain-5947">Cordillera Blanca, </a>Huaraz has become northern Peru's epicentre for adrenaline-fuelled activities and an outdoor lovers dream. In fact, what was not so long ago a sleepy town unknown to many on the backpacker circuit is quickly becoming a must-do stop on the way to or from Ecuador. With so many spectacular hikes in the surrounding areas it is likley to remain a top destination for trekkers and hikers for a while to come. If you love outdoor adventures, spectacular mountain scenery and camping under the stars, then Huaraz and the surrounding Cordillera Blanca is the perfect destination for you.

Huaraz

The most common activities in the Cordillera Huayhuash are trekking and climbing, the first being more popular. Recently, due to the construction of new unpaved roads, the access is greatly improved and you can now visit parts of the Cordillera Huayhuash even if you have only four days to spend.&nbsp; In 2002 the Peruvian government declared the Cordillera Huayhuash a national reserve and the region is administered by seven communities, each charging an entry fee for their respective area. From the melting of the alpine ice and snow, beautiful lakes, streams and rivers are born, which flow to both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.&nbsp;

Cordillera Huaywash

Mountaineers from all over the world have been defeated in their attempts to conquer this knife-edge summit of Alpamayo Mountain. Situated in the heart of Huascaran National Park, it is often described as the world&rsquo;s most beautiful peak and attracts mountaineers and climbers from all over the world. Its pyramidal form ends in a pointed summit which appears to actually&nbsp; touch the incredible&nbsp; blue Andean sky above the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/12-day-cord-blanca-climbing-alpamayo-mountain-5947">Cordillera Blanca</a>, the highest tropical mountain chain in the world. AlpamayoMountain is spectacular, both for those who admire it from below, and those who dare to climb it. The true definition of an Off The Beaten Track experience!

Alpamayo Mountain

The home of Peru’s highest mountain, The town of Huaraz and some incredible trekking and mountain climbing.

The Cordillera Blanca

In the Andes, people still live in the traditional way and have done so for thousands of years. The picturesque villages that dot the mountain sides decorate all the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/12-day-peru-express">Andean region </a>with their native agricultural crops, llama and alpaca farming, as well as the traditional dress of their community. This is where you find the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Salkantay, Ausangate and the impressive <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/5-day-inca-trail-express-to-machu-picchu">Cusco </a>region. The Cordillera Blanca is to the North of the Peruvian Andes and home to Peru&rsquo;s highest mountain Huascaran at 6768 metres elevation (see the Cordillera Blanca section); Arequipa and Colca Canyon, with their canyons and volcanos and the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca are also found in the Andean region at a whopping 3800 metres elevation!&nbsp; (See the Southern Peru section). The North of Peru also has its Andean region with impressive sites such as Kuelap, Cajamarca and Chachapoyas. All these fascinating areas of Peru are connected by the magnificent Andes, your only dilemma is to make sure you have time to see all the regions!

The city of Cusco and the &ldquo;belly button of the world&rdquo; according to The Incas, was the capital of the Inca empire. The narrow stone cobbled streets and Inca foundations of historical buildings, as well as their Spanish colonial counterparts built on top of them, form a fascinating insight into a mixture of cultures and civilisations. Today, the tourist Mecca of <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/9-day-the-best-of-peru">Cusco</a> is a hot spot for excellent cuisine, a Pisco sour or two and a jolly good night out, in between those excursions to ruins and trekking trips. This perfect launching spot for a multitude of activities and destinations has everything; however, be careful if you visit, you may never leave!&nbsp;

Cusco

Machu Picchu is probably THE number one on the list when you visit Peru. There is a reason why thousands flock to this wonder of the world, every year. The history of the impressive Inca architects and their domination of the continent as well as the geographical location, combine to make this ancient city a truly magnificent place to visit. Whether you hike there on the Inca trail or take the train, <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/16-day-discovery-peru">Machu Picchu</a> is one of the must-do activities in Peru, if not, in all of South America. After all it is a modern wonder of the world and quite rightly so!

The Sacred Valley was so-called by The Inca&rsquo;s and was the main food source of the Inca empire due to its unnaturally fertile lands. This impressive Valley has many historical sites and cultural activities as well as adventure activities in its towns and villages. <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/12-day-luxury-travel-peru">Ollantaytambo </a>is stunning, Pisac is beautiful and the market is traditional as well as touristic; Moray will leave you mind-boggling about its purpose; and in the higher regions, the native communities of Chinchero, Chawatiri and Huilloc with their traditional dress and weaving techniques, offer fascinating insight into how the Andean people have lived for many thousands of years.&nbsp;

Sacred Valley

The Andean region forms the spine of Peru and is home to many traditional, ancient communities, who are descendants of the Incas.

The Cusco Highlands

The home of <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/14-day-colours-of-peru">Lake Titicaca</a> in the Andean region and Tacna on the coast, the South of Peru has many incredible things to see and do. The stunning history and Andean Quechua / Aymara people, who still live along the shores of the lake and on its many islands, still maintain their traditions to this day. Some have even built their own floating islands! (The Uros people). <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/15-day-the-best-of-magical-peru-amazon">Arequipa</a> is in the south also with magnificent canyons such as Colca and Cotahuasi as well as the impressive volcanos of Misti, Pichu Pichu and Chachani.&nbsp;

This beautiful canyon with its traditional dress, patchwork scenery volcanos and hot springs offer a fascinating and stunningly beautiful insight into the local communities. The hiking is incredible, the views are spectacular and it is, of course, the best spot in Peru to see the Andean Condor gliding through the canyon, in all its glory. <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/15-day-the-best-of-magical-peru-amazon">Colca canyon</a> makes the Grand Canyon look like child&rsquo;s play. Twice as deep, it takes more than a couple of days to explore. You can take hikes into the giant canyon or enjoy the view from the top, but whichever way&nbsp; you choose, it is culture and Andean ambience, guaranteed.

Colca Canyon

This fascinating lake on the border of Peru and Bolivia is the highest navigable lake in the world. The fixed and floating Islands and their distinctive cultures are a fascinating insight into the Quechua and Aymara communities living there. Myth with tell you that the first Inca came out of <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/12-day-peru-express">Lake Titicaca</a> to recover a sword, which was then plunged into the ground in the city of Cusco, declaring it the capital of the Inca Empire. Jacques Cousteau will tell you there is the lost city of Atlantis in the depth of the waters along with giant turtle, incapable of breathing out of the water! This fascinating lake is surrounded by legend and myths.&nbsp;

Lake Titicaca

Arequipa is straddled between Cusco&rsquo;s rich history and the modernity of urban Lima, giving you the best of both worlds in one place. This is Peru&acute;s second largest city and is strategically placed btween the main hubs of Cusco and Lima so is the perfect&nbsp; stop off on the way. The area is is reknowned for <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/13-day-sacred-land-of-the-incas">Colca Canyon</a> and the Misti Volcano but Arequipa has so much more to offer. With incredible cuisine, astounding museums, its impressive central Plaza de Armas and one of the best places to buy vicu&ntilde;a wool, Arequipa is a large citywith a small town feel and the perfect place to explore&nbsp; in the South of Peru.

Arequipa

The home of highest lake and the deepestcanyon in the world, The south of Peru is a fascinating place of extremes!

The South

&nbsp;The white sandy remote beaches fill up in Summer season but otherwise are deserted making for some excellent chilled out vacation time. The surfy, party town of Mancora is the central hub but close by are some stunning remote fishing villages if you are looking for a more chilled out vibe. The north, is blessed with a number of incredible archaeological sites such as Chan Chan in Trujillo, Kuelap in Chachapoyas as well as Gocta, one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in the world! The cuisine is incredible along the Northern coast and possibly the best place in the world to try <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/9-day-peru-gastronomy-cusco-and-lima-food-tour">Peru&rsquo;s national dish,</a> ceviche.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Although not in the North of Peru being a few hours south of Lima, we will put Nazca in this section 😊 These gigantic geoglyphs in the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/13-day-sacred-land-of-the-incas">Nazca desert</a> may have been the native people trying to communicate with their gods, mapping the night time skies, alien landing sites or whether they were a calendar to record the seasons; the mystery surround these lines geoglyphs and trapezoids is fascinating. What is a fact, is that you can only see them from the air! These are not only impressive but an incredible insight in pre- Inca civilisations living in the desert region of Peru.&nbsp;

The Nazca Lines

Is the central surf mecca of a number of beaches hogging the Northern coast of Peru. This is the lively party town of the area, but the more remote fishing beaches such as Lobitos, Punta Sal, Zorritos and Vichayito are some of the most beautiful, pristine beaches you could hope to see along Pacific coast. The waves are a surfers paradise and the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/9-day-peru-gastronomy-cusco-and-lima-food-tour">seafood</a> is a &ldquo;foodies&rdquo; daydream. Further north there is The Manglares Natural Reserve to go nature spotting in these aquatic forests, as well as the giant sea turtles and the whales off the coastal areas. This part of Peru is hot and sunny all year round!&nbsp;

Mancora

Totally off the beaten track in the north of Peru, exists a pre-Inca archaeological site called Kuelap. The Chachapoyan culture, known as the &ldquo;cloud warriors&rdquo; built this site in approximately 6th century. Although this site has a cable car, it is still rarely visited due to its tricky location in the cloud forest and an uphill climb to get there. However, this incredible site is a must-see with its conical buildings and temples decorated with geomorphic designs are mind-blowingly beautiful. Don&rsquo;t&rsquo; forget to check out Gocta close-by, for the highest waterfall in the world!&nbsp;

Kuelap

The North of Peru boasts some of the best surfing in the world and is blessed with all year round sunshine!

Off the Beaten Track in Peru Tours