Peru
Everyone knows Peru is a hiker's fever dream. But there's more to it than epic treks. Sip pisco sours in Cusco while llamas wander the streets, then head to the coast for wild nights in Máncora or legendary surf in Chicama. Peru has it all.
Read Our Backpacking GuideOur Must-Read Guides
Quick Facts
Handpicked Things to See and Do
Peru Accommodation Guides
Editor's PickWhere to Stay in Peru: The BEST Spots
Quick Answers: Where is the Best Place to Stay in Peru? Map of Where to Stay in Peru Cusco – Overall Best…
Editor's PickWhere to Stay in Lima (COOLEST Areas!)
Top Lima Accommodation Lima’s Four Best Neighborhoods to Stay in If you’re backpacking through Lima, let’s get a little more comfortable with…
Editor's PickWhere to Stay in Cusco (Best Places)
But there’s plenty to choose from… Below you’ll find a map for easy navigation so you can start sussing out the place.…
Editor's PickWhere to Stay in Arequipa (COOLEST Areas!)
Where to Stay in Arequipa Looking for a specific place to stay while backpacking Peru? These are our highest recommendations for places…
Editor's Pick20 Best Hostels in Peru • Crush Your Travels
Quick Answer – The Best Hostels in Peru The 20 Best Hostels in Peru So you’re backpacking through Peru and now it’s…
Editor's PickThe 5 Best Hostels in Lima
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Lima The 5 Best Hostels in Lima I’ve taken the time to gather reviews and organize…
Know Before You Go
The no-BS planning guides, prep tips, and field-tested picks we use on the road.
Book It
Hostels
The one we actually use to lock in dorm beds across Peru.
Hotels
Treat yourself to your own room once in a while.
eSIM
Data the second you land – no SIM hunt at the airport.
Travel Insurance
The cover we trust on every trip – built for backpackers, actually affordable.
Tours
Even on a budget, some experiences are worth paying for.
Transport
Book your trains, planes, buses and ferries across Peru.
Travel Advice From The Trenches.
Subscribe to our newsletter for practical guides, honest destination breakdowns, and budget travel tips straight from the road. No fluff, no filler.
No spam · Unsubscribe any time
Our Latest Stories from Peru
New trip stories, guides, and honest lessons, straight from the backpack.
Peru Travel FAQs
Do you need to acclimatise to the altitude in Peru?
Yes, especially if you're heading to Cusco, the Sacred Valley or Lake Titicaca. Give yourself a few days to adjust before tackling any serious hikes, take it easy when you first arrive and stay hydrated. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness.
Is Machu Picchu worth the hype?
Absolutely. It's busy and you'll need to plan ahead, but seeing Machu Picchu in person is still one of those travel experiences that's hard to beat. There are several ways to visit, from the classic Inca Trail to shorter treks and train journeys.
What should you eat in Peru?
Peruvian food is seriously underrated. Try ceviche on the coast, lomo saltado in Lima, rocoto relleno in Arequipa and a hearty bowl of lomo saltado or ají de gallina wherever you find it. And yes, guinea pig is genuinely on the menu in parts of the country if you're feeling adventurous.
Can you travel beyond Machu Picchu in Peru?
Definitely. Machu Picchu gets most of the attention, but Peru has loads more to offer. Explore the Amazon around Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado, sandboard in Huacachina, hike around Huaraz, visit the floating islands of Lake Titicaca or head south to Arequipa and Colca Canyon.