Things To Do
in Peru
Peru is a South American country known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and historical sites such as Machu Picchu. Its capital is Lima, a bustling city with a mix of modern and colonial architecture. The United States, on the other hand, is a diverse country in North America known for its vast landscapes, diverse cities, and cultural influences from around the world. Its capital is Washington, D.C., a hub of political power and historical landmarks.
Both countries offer unique experiences and attractions for visitors to explore and enjoy.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market to savor fresh, traditional Peruvian breakfast dishes like tamales and coffee. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the friendly interactions with the locals.
Take a guided tour through the historical streets of Lima, exploring colonial architecture and famous landmarks like Plaza Mayor. Stop for lunch at a popular cevicheria and taste the national dish.
Spend your evening strolling along the Miraflores boardwalk, enjoying the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Wind down with dinner at a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the coastline.
Embark on an early morning trip to the Sacred Valley, soaking in the breathtaking landscapes. Visit the Pisac archaeological site and discover the rich cultural heritage.
Head to Ollantaytambo for lunch and explore the impressive ruins and quaint streets. Enjoy shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs in the local market.
Return to your lodge for a quiet dinner, reflecting on the day’s adventures. If time permits, enjoy some stargazing against the backdrop of the Andean mountains.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diversity.
- Breathtaking natural landscapes, including mountains, jungles, and coastlines.
- Famous for its cuisine, including dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado.
- Affordable cost of living for expatriates and travelers.
- Warm and welcoming local communities.
- Economic inequality and poverty in certain areas.
- Political instability and corruption issues.
- Challenges with infrastructure and public services.
- Health care can vary significantly in quality.
- Language barrier for those who do not speak Spanish.
Best Activities in Peru
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning trails of the Bighorn Mountains, featuring breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and various hiking options for all skill levels.
Enjoy fly fishing or spin fishing in the North Platte River, known for its abundant trout population and scenic surroundings.
Paddle through the serene waters of the Tongue River, perfect for both beginners and experienced kayakers looking to enjoy nature.
Set up camp at Keyhole State Park, where you can relax by the lake, fish, hike, and enjoy beautiful sunsets.
Experience incredible birdwatching opportunities in the Medicine Bow National Forest, home to a variety of bird species and scenic landscapes.
Take on the thrilling mountain biking trails at Sinks Canyon State Park, which offer both challenging terrains and stunning views.
Tours
Uncover the best of Peru with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Peru
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient Incan city set high in the Andes Mountains, known for its breathtaking views and iconic terraces. Ideal for sunrise photo opportunities and capturing the stunning landscapes.
Famous for its vibrant, multi-colored slopes, this mountain offers unique photographic opportunities with picturesque views of the Andes and surrounding valleys.
One of the deepest canyons in the world, this location is perfect for capturing stunning views of the canyon's rugged cliffs and the majestic Andean condors gliding above.
The highest navigable lake in the world, offering scenic views of the surrounding islands and traditional reed boat experiences; perfect for golden hour photography.
Ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor that are best viewed from the air. A unique opportunity for aerial photography capturing these mysterious designs.
An Inca fortress located on the outskirts of Cusco, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape, ideal for both day and night photography.
Known for its vibrant cultural scenes and views of Lake Titicaca, Puno offers opportunities to capture traditional festivals and stunning sunsets.
A picturesque desert oasis surrounded by sand dunes, providing unique photography opportunities of dune landscapes and adventurous activities like sandboarding.
An ancient Inca town with impressive ruins, perfect for capturing both historical architecture and the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
Experience the lush biodiversity and stunning vistas of the Amazon, offering unique opportunities to photograph wildlife and vibrant plant life.
Food in Peru
Peru Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Raw fish cured in citrus juices, mixed with onions, chili peppers, and seasonings. It is a must-try dish that can be found in Peruvian restaurants across the United States.
Must-Try!
A stir-fry dish combining marinated beef, onions, tomatoes, and other Andean ingredients. It is a popular Peruvian dish served in many Peruvian restaurants in the United States.
Shredded chicken in a creamy, spicy yellow sauce made of aji amarillo peppers, walnuts, and cheese. It's a beloved Peruvian comfort food dish available in Peruvian eateries in the United States.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Peru better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A popular food market in various cities in the United States, featuring a diverse range of global cuisines including Peruvian street food such as anticuchos (marinated grilled skewers) and empanadas.
Look out for Peruvian food festivals or street fairs in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami, where you can savor authentic Peruvian street food offerings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In both Peru and the United States, greetings are important, but vary by culture. In Peru, a common greeting involves a warm handshake or, among friends and family, a lightly kissed cheek. In contrast, in the U.S., a firm handshake is standard, while hugging may occur among friends and close acquaintances.
While dining in Peru, it's customary to wait for the host to begin the meal before starting to eat, and it's polite to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows). In the United States, it is expected to begin eating once everyone has been served and also to keep elbows off the table during the meal.
Punctuality can vary between cultures. In Peru, social gatherings may start later than indicated, and being fashionably late is often accepted. However, in the United States, punctuality is typically respected and being late is usually viewed as disrespectful, especially in a professional context.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Peru with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Peru
Ensure a smooth experience
In Peru, tipping is customary but not obligatory. It is common to give small tips of around 10% in restaurants if service is good, although some establishments may include a service charge in the bill. For taxis, rounding up the fare is appreciated. In the United States, tipping is expected in many service industries. It is customary to tip servers in restaurants 15-20% of the total bill before tax. In addition, tips are often given to bartenders, taxi drivers, hotel staff, and other service providers as a way to acknowledge good service.
In Peru, cash is still the most commonly used form of payment, particularly in markets and smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are accepted in many restaurants and shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases. In the United States, payments are predominantly made via credit and debit cards, with cash still being accepted. Mobile payment options and digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming increasingly popular. Businesses in both countries may also accept local and international currencies, but it's typical to pay in the local currency.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Peru.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Peru is a great time to visit, especially for outdoor activities, as the weather is mild and the landscapes are lush. This season is ideal for exploring the Andes and visiting Machu Picchu before the peak tourist season arrives.
Summer marks the dry season in Peru and is the peak time for tourists, especially in Cusco and Machu Picchu. Expect sunny days and clear skies, but also larger crowds at popular attractions. This is also a great time for trekking.
Fall in Peru is another good time to visit, as the weather is still pleasant but the crowds begin to thin out. It's a good time for cultural festivals and exploring the coast and the Amazon rainforest.
Winter in Peru coincides with the rainy season, particularly in the Andes, which can lead to travel disruptions. However, this can be a good time to visit the coast, where the weather is warmer and drier.
Spring in the United States varies by region, with warmer temperatures in the South and gradual warming in the North. This season is often a great time for outdoor activities and visiting national parks as flowers bloom and wildlife becomes more active.
Summer is peak tourist season in the U.S., offering a wide range of activities from beach vacations to summer festivals in cities. Expect hot weather in many regions, but also larger crowds at popular destinations, especially national parks.
Fall is one of the best times to visit the U.S. when temperatures are cooler and foliage changes colors, especially in the Northeast. This season is perfect for hiking and enjoying harvest festivals.
Winter offers a beautiful landscape in many areas, especially in regions with snowfall. This is the time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. However, some attractions may be closed or have limited access due to weather conditions.
Peru at Night
Hiking in Peru
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park offering various hiking trails suitable for all skill levels, featuring beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
Located nearby, this park is known for its stunning canyons and waterfalls, with numerous trails for hiking enthusiasts.
This park offers trails with breathtaking views of the Illinois River, ideal for hiking and picnicking.
A picturesque area with hiking trails that take you through canyons, waterfalls, and lush forests.
Features long, flat trails perfect for hiking beside the historic Hennepin Canal.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Peru through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Peru by plane.
Located in Los Angeles, California, LAX is one of the busiest international airports in the United States and serves as a major gateway to Asia and the Pacific.
Situated in San Francisco, California, SFO is a major international airport that handles transpacific flights and is a hub for several airlines.
Located in New York City, JFK is one of the largest international airports in the U.S. and serves over 50 million travelers annually.
Situated in Miami, Florida, MIA is a major hub for international flights, especially to Latin America and the Caribbean.
Located in Houston, Texas, IAH serves a significant number of international flights, particularly to Central and South America.
Based in Atlanta, Georgia, ATL is one of the world's busiest airports and serves as a major hub for international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A demographic group that includes individuals of Spanish or Latin American descent. In the United States, this group represents a significant and growing portion of the population.
This group includes individuals who identify as Caucasian and are not of Hispanic or Latino origin. They represent a sizeable demographic in the United States.
A demographic group that includes individuals with origins in black racial groups of Africa. This group is a prominent part of the demographic landscape in the United States.
Individuals from a variety of Asian backgrounds, including but not limited to East Asian, South Asian, and Southeast Asian origins. This group is growing in both Peru and the United States.
In Peru, Indigenous Peoples represent a significant demographic, including various ethnic groups such as Quechua and Aymara. In the U.S., Native American groups are recognized as the first inhabitants.
This group includes individuals with origins from the Middle East or North Africa, contributing to the diverse demographic composition of the United States.
Individuals who identify with races not specifically categorized under the major demographic groups listed above.
The Soul of Peru
Discover the essence of Peru through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer, known as football in many parts of the world, is the most popular sport in Peru. The country has a rich soccer culture, with a passionate fan base and significant achievements in international competitions.
Volleyball is also a popular sport in Peru, particularly women's volleyball. The national women's team has earned recognition for its performance in international tournaments.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Peru, especially among the youth. The sport is played in schools and local leagues.
In the United States, American football is one of the most popular sports, with the National Football League (NFL) being a major professional league that captures millions of fans each year.
Basketball is also extremely popular in the United States, with the National Basketball Association (NBA) being a premier league that features some of the best players in the world.
Baseball, often referred to as America's pastime, enjoys a significant following in the United States, with Major League Baseball (MLB) being the highest level of professional play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Peru.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Peruvian restaurants in the United States offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, such as quinoa salads, veggie ceviche, and grilled vegetable platters.
Peruvian cuisine features naturally gluten-free ingredients like corn, quinoa, potatoes, and fresh seafood, making it relatively easy to find gluten-free options in Peruvian eateries in the United States.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Peru with these cultural adventures.