Peru is well-travelled and used to tourism but that’s not all bad. It makes for great food and really resonably priced tours, so even if you are an independant traveller you may find yourself tempted by them. They are often cheaper than public transport!
There are still relatively new experiences to be had. We had a fantastic experience trekking Choquechirao, with barely anyone else there to share it with!
Likes | trekking haven | trip prices are really good value |
Dislikes | the locals are very reserved here | they are tourism experts and know how to work it; I didn’t like how they enhanced some experiences especially for tourists – just give us the real deal!
Route (click on the links) | Huaraz | Lima | Ica | Cusco | Puno
Including (click on the links) | Santa Cruz Trek | Laguna 69 | Lima half marathon | Huacachina | Inca Trail | Rainbow Montain | Chochequirao | Titicaca; floating islands and homestay | Inti Raymi festival | Chiriuchu
Food to try: alpaca steaks | Pisco sours | chicharrones | chicha | Cuscena beers | Inka Cola
Tips: damaged notes (with even the slightest hint of a tear) are hard to get rid of here so don’t accept them as change – you’ll never be rid of them. Also beware of fake notes, often palmed off on tourists.
Photos can be deceptive in Huacachina (Ica and the Ballestas Islands too)