Why travel to
Traveling to Peru is a great idea for many reasons! The country is incredibly diverse, with an array of different geographical regions, from the rolling hills of Ancash to the arid plains of Tacna. Peru is home to some of the most spectacular historical and cultural attractions in South America, including the magnificent Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the mysterious Nasca Lines and the colorful Colca Canyon. Those interested in cuisine will be spoilt for choice with traditional fares like ceviche, causa, and anticuchos. Nature lovers will marvel at the wide variety of endemic flora and fauna at the Amazon rainforest and Manu National Park. With its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and vibrant culture, Peru should be on everyone’s bucket list!
Cost of living
Living in Peru is generally considered to be relatively affordable. When I was visiting Peru in 2021 a single person can expect to pay around $400-600 USD per month for basic living expenses such as rent, food, and transportation. If a person lives a bit more luxuriously or in an upscale neighbourhood, they can expect to pay between $750-1200 USD per month.
Safety
Yes, it is safe to travel to Peru as long as travelers are aware of the proper safety protocols when traveling in the country. Tourists should be aware of their surroundings at all times and take extra precaution in crowded areas. Tourists should also read the latest travel advisories before departing.
Places to visit
1. Machu Picchu: Situated high in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is an impressive ancient Incan city built around 1450. The awe-inspiring site offers stunning terraces, intricate stonework and 360-degree panoramas.
2. Sacred Valley: The popular Sacred Valley of the Incas is located in the Andes Mountains of central Peru and offers lush scenery, traditional villages and some of the best locations for traditional Incan handicrafts and textiles.
3. Nazca Lines: The mysterious Nazca Lines are a fascinating collection of huge lines and geometric figures etched into the desert floor in Southern Peru. Experts can’t agree on the source or purpose of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, but sightseers can enjoy an aerial tour to get a better look.
4. Lima: Peru’s capital and the largest city in the country, Lima is a lively metropolis with great restaurants, world-class museums, colonial-era buildings, and fantastic nightlife.
5. Lake Titicaca: Straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia is Lake Titicaca, South America’s largest lake and a popular tourist destination. Its waters are home to floating islands and various native wildlife, while its shores contain some of Peru’s oldest archaeological sites.
6. Arequipa: A pleasant city in Peru’s southern highlands, Arequipa is noted for its stunning Spanish colonial architecture, active volcanoes, and ancient Incan ruins.
7. Cuzco: Home to the former Incan capital, Cuzco is a remarkable city filled with Incan ruins, Spanish colonial buildings and impressive churches. Many visitors also come to hike the Incan Trail and view some of Peru’s most spectacular mountain scenery.
Food to try
- Ceviche: Fish or seafood marinated in lime juice and spiced with Peruvian chillies.
- Lomo Saltado: A stir-fried beef dish with potatoes, tomatoes, onions and chillies.
- Aji de Gallina: A stew of chicken, walnuts, potatoes, and cheese in a creamy sauce.
- Causa: A layered dish of mashed potatoes, seafood, eggs, cheese, vegetables, and spicy or herbed mayonnaise.
- Anticuchos: Skewered, grilled meats marinated in vinegar, garlic, and spices. 6. Picarones: Donuts made from squash and sweet potatoes.
- Alfajores: Shortbread sandwich cookies filled with dulce de leche.
- Empanadas: Deep-fried or oven-baked turnovers filled with meat, cheese, and spices.
- Chicha Morada: A sweet purple corn drink.
- Cuy: Roasted guinea pig.
Souvenirs
- Alpaca Mittens – Traditional Peruvian mittens handcrafted from soft and cozy alpaca wool.
- Chullo Hat – Colorful, vibrant and thick knitted headwear lined with faux fur for extra warmth.
- Rainbow Inca Bracelet – Unique, handmade souvenir crafted from leather, colourful beads and Peruvian alpaca wool.
- Scented Vases – Pretty ceramic vases with traditional patterns and a distinct, exotic scent.
- Ocarina Flutes – Handcrafted wind instruments made from clay and decorated with traditional designs.
- Quinoa Jewelry – Eye-catching jewellery made with sterling silver and quinoa seeds.
- Huacayna Baskets – Colorful handmade bags crafted using natural materials such as reeds and palm leaves.
- Llama Plush Toys – Adorable, huggable toys made to mimic the traditional Peruvian llama.
- Maca Energy Bars – Delicious snacks made with the traditional Peruvian superfood maca root.
- Peruvian Chocolate – Award-winning artisan chocolates made with rare and sustainably sourced Peruvian cacao beans.