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Introducing Peru

Peru is a country steeped in culture and natural beauty. From the lush Amazon Jungle to the sacred peaks of the Andes, down whitewater rivers that carve their way toward the South Pacific, Peru has endless regions and highlights to explore. 

Where should I go?
Most travelers come to Peru to see Machu Picchu, the iconic ruins perched high above the Urubamba River, yet this is just a small glimpse into what Peru has to offer. One could spend over a week exploring the other ruins of the Sacred Valley, a corridor of villages, mountain peaks, and hiking routes above the Urubamba River. Travelers can also experience the Peruvian Amazon along the border of Brazil, which gives birth to many of the mighty tributaries of the Amazon River, full of wildlife, indigenous cultures, and pristine wilderness. The north of Peru, still undiscovered by mainstream tourism, rewards any traveler who ventures off the beaten path with untouched ruins and vistas. Then down along Peru's West Coast, past beautiful beaches with year-round surfing, you'll arrive at the mysterious Nasca lines, immense geoglyphs carved into the desert sand. Learn more

When is the best time to visit? 
Every region in Peru is a bit different. May is one of the best months to visit the Sacred Valley - it marks the end of the rainy season, and travelers can beat the crowds that arrive from June to August. September to November are the best months for wildlife viewing in the Amazon, and November offers some of the best surfing along the Peruvian coast. Learn more

Things to do in Peru
Peru is a great destination for outdoor activities as well as cultural exploration. Trekking, rafting, and biking are all popular activities. The Sacred Valley offers some of the best outdoor activity options in Peru - you can learn more here. If you're looking for a more relaxed trip focused on culture and history, get inspired by these itinerary ideas.

Getting around in Peru
Distances in Peru are very large, so domestic flights (for example from Lima to Cusco to reach Machu Picchu) are typically part of itineraries in Peru. Learn more

How many days do you need to visit Peru? 
No matter how much time you have in Peru, whether it's just a few days or a few weeks, this country can offer some unforgettable experiences. With just five days, it's possible to visit the national highlights of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. With a week or more the experiences just get better, allowing you time for historic cities and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Learn more

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Peru Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Machu Picchu
Map of Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

If you’re looking for the best way to hike the Inca Trail, this classic route offers a unique approach which avoids the main crowds, and follows the ideal schedule for timing your visit to Machu Picchu.

Salkantay peak as seen during the Salkantay trek
Map of Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The Salkantay trek is one of Peru’s best alternatives to the Inca Trail. Trek over a beautiful mountain pass at the foot of Mt. Salkantay before stopping at a local organic coffee plantation, followed by a visit to the Llactapata ruins. Finally, get up early the last day to catch sunrise at the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu
Map of Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain Adventure - 6 Days
Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain Adventure - 6 Days

Explore the essential highlights of Peru's Sacred Valley, including visits to Cusco and Machu Picchu. Then, journey through a land of wild desert landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and herds of alpacas to arrive at your ultimate destination: the rainbow-painted slopes of Mount Vinicunca hidden deep in the Andes.

Uros floating island on Lake Titicaca
Map of Essential Peru - 14 Days
Essential Peru - 14 Days

From the Nazca Lines to Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, and Machu Picchu, this 14-day itinerary takes you to Peru's major highlights. Fly over the Nazca Lines - some of the world's most impressive geoglyphs, then spend some time exploring the metropolitan city of Lima before heading out to explore the colonial city of Arequipa. Next, explore Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons, then head out to Lake Titicaca - a place rich with history, culture, and natural beauty. Finally, head to the Inca capital of Cusco and explore colorful textile markets and small towns of the Sacred Valley, and hike the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Looking down on the city of Cusco
Map of Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour - 7 Days
Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour - 7 Days

Explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu on this epic one week adventure. While in the Sacred Valley, you'll get to choose from a selection of great adventures, including mountain biking, horseback riding, or zip-lining. 

Caravan in Cordiliera Huayhuash
Map of Cordillera Huayhuash - 9 Days
Cordillera Huayhuash - 9 Days

Explore the Cordillera Huayhuash on this 9-day adventure through one of the most impressive regions of the Peruvian Andes. This is one of the lesser-known and uncrowded treks due to the remote location of this beautiful mountain range.

Make the Most of Your Time in Peru

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Checkout the Uros Floating Islands and visit Puno on Lake Titicaca
How Many Days to Spend in Peru

No matter how much time you have in Peru, whether it's just a few days or a few weeks, this country can offer some unforgettable experiences. With just three or four days and...

Explore famed Machu Picchu on all but four of the following one-week itineraries
Map of 1 Week in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In seven days, it's easy to combine Machu Picchu with day trips within the Sacred Valley or with a visit to another region like the Amazon Rainforest or Lake Titicaca. Trekkers...

Famous view of the Lost City of Kuélap, near Chachapoyas, Peru
Map of 10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in Peru is an excellent amount of time to enjoy a well-rounded introduction to the country's highlights on a tour featuring Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, and the Amazon,...

See how many parrots you can count at Parrot Clay Lick on an adventure into the Amazon
Map of 2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

A two-week visit to Peru allows travelers to comfortably combine Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley with one of the country's more remote regions. Enjoy the culture and history...

Peru Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
Ruins at Ollantaytambo in Peru's Sacred Valley
Best Time of Year to Visit Peru

Each region of Peru has its own weather patterns and trip-planning considerations. The busy season for Machu Picchu, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley runs from June-August, and...

Agricultural terraces surrounding the ruins
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu and its surrounds offer a variety of seasonal outdoor activities and phenomenal festivals throughout the year. For ideal weather (bright, dry and cool), you'll want...

View of Machu Picchu
Top 10 Places to Visit in Peru

From ancient Inca ruins to the mysterious Nazca Lines, snow-capped peaks to dense Amazonian jungle: Peru is one of the world's most diverse destinations. That diversity is also...

Spectacular mountain scenery in the Sacred Valley © Kiki Deere
Best Activities in Peru

Peru’s spectacularly varied landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities and sports: trekking, rafting and mountain biking are just a handful of the activities...

Peru Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
Hiking up Rainbow Mountain near Cusco, Peru
Ultimate Peru Packing List

Peru is a land of extremes. You'll need layers of clothing for a daytime hike, a swimsuit at the beach, and a thick alpaca blanket on a cold night up in the Andes. Whatever your...

Machu Picchu - the perfect set
5 Movies to Watch Before Your Trip to Peru

Grab some popcorn! Your adventures in Peru will be even more fulfilling if you take the time to watch a film or two before you begin the trip. And these comedies, biopics, and...

Train at Abra la Raya on the Cusco to Puno Line
Peru's Best Train Rides

All aboard! Trains are a practical solution for traveling in Peru: they transport travelers between key destinations around the country, and they're also a wonderful way to take...

Peru Destination Guides

Detailed travel guides for the main regions of the country
Estancia El Chillo, Amazonas Region
Northern Peru: Everything You Need To Know

While the majority of travelers head straight for Machu Picchu in southern Peru, the North remains a hidden gem for those willing to venture off-the-beaten-path. You'll have...

Cusco, historic capital of the Inca Empire, by night
24 Hours in Cusco

Cusco has been a bastion of Peruvian culture since its founding in the 12th century. Today, it's a sophisticated city filled with fabulous museums, galleries, restaurants, and...

Paragliding over the plush neighborhood of Miraflores in Lima
24 Hours in Lima

Lima offers history, world-class museums, an unbeatable foodie scene, and the second-largest cityscape in South America. Not sure where to start? To the rescue: a foolproof plan...

Peru Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Cusco
Antigua Casona San Blas
5.0
(34)
· Comfort
Located in Cusco's artisan neighborhood of San Blas, Antigua Casona San Blas offers a peaceful stay within a five-minute walk from the city center. San Blas is Cusco's oldest, continuously lived-in neighborhood, where you can find numerous artisan galleries, quaint coffee shops, and delicious...
Tambopata
Refugio Amazonas Lodge
4.9
(15)
· Mid-range
Refugio Amazonas is a rustic retreat set deep within the rainforest, surrounded by the beauty of the Tambopata National Reserve. This secluded 32-bedroom jungle lodge is about two hours from the Puerto Maldonado Airport in southeastern Peru. You can easily explore nearby attractions such as Lago...
Lima
Pullman Lima Miraflores
4.9
(8)
· Comfort
Located in Lima's vibrant Miraflores district, Pullman Lima Miraflores offers a prime location for exploring the city's key sites. Just a short stroll from the iconic Malecón de la Costa Verde and Larcomar Shopping Mall, you'll also be within easy reach of the Barranco District, Kennedy Park,...

Best Experiences in Peru

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Machu Picchu
Sacred Valley
Machu Picchu Tour
4.9
(28)
6 hours
·
Private
The ruins of the 15th century Incan citadel of Machu Picchu (which translates to "old mountain") were largely hidden to the outside world until the early 20th century. Today over a million visitors flock to this UNESCO World Heritage Site each year. They come to see a masterpiece of ancient...
Peruvian ceviche
Lima
Lima Food Tour
4.9
(19)
5 hours
·
Small group
One of the best ways to discover Peru's capital city of Lima is through its food. With an eclectic combination of indigenous, African, Asian, and European culinary influences, Lima is one of the world's most impressive gastronomic and cultural centers. This food tour begins early in Lima's...
The Plaza de Armas, Cusco
Cusco
Cusco City Tour
4.9
(19)
5 hours
·
Private
Cusco isn't just an impressive Spanish-colonial city in Peru's southern highlands. It's also the historic capital of the Inca empire. Today's tour begins at the indoor San Pedro Market, in the heart of the colonial center. This is as authentic a Peruvian experience as it gets, since locals come...

Our Latest Peru Content

Conquer the Salkantay Trek in just four days, culminating at the UNESCO-listed Machu Picchu
Map of Explore Southern Peru & Conquer the Salkantay Trek - 15 Days
Explore Southern Peru & Conquer the Salkantay Trek - 15 Days

In just over two weeks, you'll discover the best that southern Peru has to offer. Start with a tour of the capital, Lima, before flying to Cusco to discover Inca ruins and meet alpacas. Ride a quad bike to the Salt Mines of Maras, then transfer to Challacancha to start the four-day Salkantay Trek, culminating at Machu Picchu. End the action-packed tour in Arequipa, where you can admire colonial-era churches, indulge in local food, and take a day trip to Colca Canyon to visit a paleolithic cave and see condors in flight.

Enjoy a family-friendly tour of the UNESCO-listed Machu Picchu
Map of Family Fun in Peru: Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu - 9 Days
Family Fun in Peru: Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu - 9 Days

Spend nine incredible days exploring Peru's culture, history, and food with fun activities for the whole family! Start in Lima with a hands-on cooking class, then paint colorful ceramic bulls in Cusco. Head to the Sacred Valley for ruins and rafting adventures along the Río Urubamba. Ride the observatory train to Machu Picchu for a guided tour and self-led hike before wrapping up in Cusco with visits to a 15th-century Inca fortress, the Temple of the Sun, and stargazing at the planetarium.

Spend the day exploring Lake Titicaca, stopping at the isolated Taquile Island
Map of Best of Peru & Bolivia with Inca Trail Trek: From the Amazon to the Andes - 16 Days
Best of Peru & Bolivia with Inca Trail Trek: From the Amazon to the Andes - 16 Days

Discover the wonders of Peru and Bolivia in 16 incredible days! Begin with free time in Lima, then head to Puerto Maldonado for Amazon jungle adventures, including hiking, canoeing, and canopy walks. Explore Inca ruins in Cusco and the lush Sacred Valley before trekking the four-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Savor Arequipa's culinary delights, marvel at Andean condors in Colca Canyon, and cruise Lake Titicaca's islands. Then, end your journey at the ancient site of Tiwanaku and vibrant La Paz in Bolivia.

Peru Travel Videos

Peru Travel Specialist Interview - Nicole
Peru Travel Specialist Interview - Clara
Exploring the Sacred Valley

Peru Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 7 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itineraries
2 Weeks in Peru - 5 Unique Itineraries
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Map 10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Peru
Travel specialist Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
active 1 min ago

Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca

Peruvian delicious food, unique culture, and fascinating history are part of me! And as a good cusqueñian, I am very proud of my culture and heritage. I have lived and worked in the USA and made...

read more...
Travel specialist Johanna Fabian
active 21 mins ago

Johanna Fabian

I enjoy slow travel, ideally being in one country for a month where I can really get to know the local people, their way of life and of course their food! I am Peruvian-American and have traveled...

read more...
Travel specialist Anne Godoy
active 1 hour ago

Anne Godoy

I fell in love with Peru's landscapes, culture, food, and people—not only because of what I learned in college but also because of what I had seen and lived my whole life. That passion and love...

read more...
Travel specialist Kristy Tizon
active 1 min ago

Kristy Tizon

Kristy, a Peruvian-American originally from Los Angeles but now based in Lima, Peru, has a deep passion for travel. She founded Miski Travels, a travel agency that offers customized trips to...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Peru

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Epic adventure in Peru
Peru | Oct 14 - Oct 23, 2024

cheryl
cheryl c.
Canada | Reviewed on Nov 07, 2024
Kristy planned an excellent itinerary which was beautifully executed with seamless airport transfers, professional and enthusiastic guides especially Valerio, beautiful accommodations, fascinating tours and adventures and delicious food. Our expectations were exceeded and are very delighted with the KimKim experience and service. Kristy and the Peru team are amazing and we look forward to our next trip. Cheryl and Dave Read more

Kristy planned an excellent itinerary which was beautifully executed with seamless airport transfers, professional and enthusiastic guides especially Valerio, beautiful accommodations, fascinating tours and adventures and delicious food. Our expectations were exceeded and are very delighted with the KimKim experience and service.

Kristy and the Peru team are amazing and we look forward to our next trip.

Cheryl and Dave

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Antigua Miraflores
Lima

The team at Hotel Antigua Miraflores was stellar. The doorman and front reception were professional and service focused and always with a smile. The restaurant and bar service and food were excellent. The accommodations were super clean and very comfortable.

Authenticity & Character
Charming decor and friendly staff.
Location
Staff
They were very helpful and willing to assist.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Las Qolqas EcoResort Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo

Outstanding property and staff. Exceeded our expectations in all levels.

Authenticity & Character
love the tents
Location
Beautiful setting in the valley, serene and scenic both day and night.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tierra Viva Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu

Location good and rooms adequate.

Authenticity & Character
Looking out at the garbage next door disappointing
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rumi Wasi
Cusco

Cool

Authenticity & Character
The authenticity of the decor matched the UNESCO designation
Location
So close to center of Cusco
Staff
Responsive
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Kristy Tizon
Kristy
Kristy Tizon
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Nov 09, 2024

Hi Cheryl and Dave,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! It was a joy to help plan your Peru adventure, and I'm thrilled to hear that everything exceeded your expectations. It means a lot to know you’re already looking forward to your next trip—we can’t wait to help make it just as special!

Warmest regards,
Kristy

Cusco Adventure
Peru | Oct 16 - Oct 19, 2024

Graham
Graham H.
Greensboro, NC | Reviewed on Nov 03, 2024
We had 3 days in Cusco before we joined our yoga retreat and decided to work with KimKim to come up with an itinerary for us. We have used KimKim twice before and have always had excellent customer service as well as a great itinerary! Anne Godoy was wonderful and didn't mind the many questions I had or the changes that we made. She responded promptly to our inquiries, made excellent suggestions, and was always available to chat via WhatsApp when we needed it. KimKim is the best! Anne... Read more

We had 3 days in Cusco before we joined our yoga retreat and decided to work with KimKim to come up with an itinerary for us. We have used KimKim twice before and have always had excellent customer service as well as a great itinerary! Anne Godoy was wonderful and didn't mind the many questions I had or the changes that we made. She responded promptly to our inquiries, made excellent suggestions, and was always available to chat via WhatsApp when we needed it. KimKim is the best! Anne booked a local company in Cusco to set up our excursions and we couldn't have asked for a better time. It's great to have locals because they know the city, the people, and the history. Our amazing guide, Julio Quispe Fernandez, was the best. He was right there to meet us at the airport and took us to our hotel where check in was super easy. Then we were off. We went on a walking tour of some of the city and his knowledge of the city and it's history was so impressive and interesting. He was so enthusiastic. We later met with Seledonia, who owns Mama Seledonia's restaurant, and we went shopping in a local market to select ingredients for the dinner we would be cooking later at her restaurant. What an experience! All the vegetables, fruits, meats, spices, potatoes on display--it was incredible, and beautiful. We made a delicious dinner and Pisco Sours (yum!) and had the best time with Seledonia and Julio at dinner. We even took several of our yoga group back on Friday night for dinner--and it was even more delicious! The next day we went kayaking on Lake Piuray and had a fabulous lunch all cooked in a clay fired oven outside by some local women. After lunch, we rode a bit and then took ATVs to the Inca Experimental Agricultural Lab in Moray and then we visited the Maras salt flats and learned about the past and present operation of those. So incredible. Our final full day was spent riding bikes along the Urubamba River (approximately 20 miles). The weather was perfect, the scenery gorgeous. We were thoroughly pleased with all of our excursions and the level of detail that was taken to make sure we were picked up at the right times, had knowledgeable guides and responsible drivers, given water and lunch, and then returned to our hotel. We also felt safe the entire time. KimKim has always been great about providing you with excellent guides and very detailed and efficient itineraries and they will work with you to the level of "adventure" that you are looking for. Highly recommend and we will be using them for all of our travel needs.

Hotel Review
Antigua Casona San Blas
Cusco

This hotel was a jewel. It's tucked in a narrow street and you don't know how beautiful it is until you go through the door. The patio is the first thing you see and it's so pretty-lots of seating and firepits for cool nights. The restaurant is right off the rear and the bar as well, both of which are great. Our room was perfect for us. A comfortable king size bed, several bottles of water throughout the room, space for our clothes, and coffee/tea if we wanted it. The room was very clean and the waters were replaced several times each day and there is also a filtered water fountain in the lobby. Everyone was very friendly and personable. We had a spa treatment our last day (massage and then they hyperbaric chamber--so great!) and that was wonderful. The lobby has a neat little room off to the side that has waters, teas, and coffee for you. The restaurant was great too--we ate breakfast there each morning which included a delicious buffet with fruits, oatmeal, breads, salads, fresh juices, and coffee or you could order from the menu. They also served lunch and dinner, and everything we ate was yummy. The bar staff was so friendly and made drink recommendations for us. We loved sitting at the open window at the bar and watching the activity on the patio. The location was great--within walking distance of so many restaurants, shops, market places. The entire vibe was wonderful and we would definitely stay there again.

Authenticity & Character
It used to be a multi family home (it was actually our guide's childhood home!) that has been transformed into a beautiful hotel. Very cozy and comfortable.
Location
Close to all you need-shops, restaurants, city squares, markets.
Staff
Everyone was friendly and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Our room was very clean and cleaned each day. The bed was comfortable and it was great having filtered water available in our room all the time.
Activity Reviews
Cooking Class with Seledonia Mesa
Cooking Class with Seledonia Mesa
Cusco

This was one of the best things we did. Seledonia was so much fun and although she couldn't speak much English and we couldn't speak Spanish, we could communicate wonderfully through smiles, laughter and gestures. She took us, along with our guide, to a local market that was incredible. All the vegetables, fruits, spices, meats, potatoes--it was mind blowing. And so beautiful!! We picked out the items we needed to make our dinner and then walked to her restaurant, Mama Seledonia's. We chopped and diced and had a grand time. We also got to make Pisco Sours, a delightful cocktail that was delicious. We had so much fun shaking those and dancing around. Our first course was a lamb stew that percolated on the stove while we chopped more veggies and spiced our filets for the main course, a delicious Peruvian-Asian fusion dish served with rice. We sauteed all that up on an open flame and didn't burn the place down. For dessert we had fresh fruit, fresh cheeses, and this amazing bread that we dipped in some sort of magical melted chocolate drink. The whole experience was absolutely incredible. We laughed and hugged and had the absolute best time. Her whole staff was so friendly, even though you know we were in their way (the restaurant was open for business). We met her husband and 2 of her children and they were delightful as well. We loved it so much, that later that week when we met up with some of our retreat group members, we all went to dinner at Mama Seledonia's and it was by far one of the best meals we had while in Peru. I highly recommend you do the cooking class.

Quality of Experience
Everything! The food, the people, the atmosphere. It was great.
Food
The different things we made--I normally don't like lamb, but the stew was delicous. It was great trying different fruits and spices. And the cheeses were incredible!!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
They were all so friendly. Our guide through Peruvian Soul, Julio, was terrific. And Seledonia was a jewel!
Transport
We had a private transport so it was very easy to get around and to ask questions, talk to our guide and driver.
Piuray Lake Kayaking
Piuray Lake Kayaking
Peru

The lake was so pretty and our guide was a very passionate young man who loved the outdoors and taking us on our kayak journey. We were given wetsuits and taken to the water to start paddling. It was a very quiet lake, we were the only people on it for the longest time. Our guide told us about all the mountain ranges, the different birds that are there, some of the history, and at the end I jumped off and went swimming. The water was so refreshing! Oh, we also so flamingos. It was a great trip. Not very strenuous at all. After kayaking, we went back to shore and showered (they have a rudimentary outdoor shower) and were given a wonderful lunch cooked totally outdoors in a clay oven. It was so good, along with fresh fruits. Again, the people there were so kind and friendly. We were lucky and the weather was perfect!

Quality of Experience
Beautiful place to spend a relaxing day. So peaceful and the scenery was gorgeous.
Food
Everything was so fresh and delicious, even the things I wasn't crazy about. We tried everything and went back for seconds on most items. Try it all!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Everyone was so friendly and kind. Our guide was very knowledgeable.
Transport
We were till with our guide Julio and then our guide on the lake was a young man who loved what he did--very enthusiastic about nature and his job.
Quadbike Tour Maras & Moray
Quadbike Tour Maras & Moray
Peru

This was a lot of fun--ATVs are a great way to get around! We had a little "training" session first before heading out and then we followed out guide off to Moray to see the Incan Experimental Lab. There wasn't much traffic and he went slowly so we didn't have to worry about keeping up. He gave signals to us when to change gears and when to slow down/stop. We were able to stop and take photos and ask questions. The Experimental Lab was incredible to see--the ingenuity of the Incans is mind blowing. We were there for about 15 minutes and then we went back the way we came and dropped the ATVs off. The whole ATV experience was probably 1.5-2 hours. We definitely enjoyed it. We then got back in our van and went to the Maras salt flats. There weren't many people there as it was late in the afternoon, so that was nice. The salt flats are beautiful, and the reflection of the sun just enhanced their beauty. Julio, our trusty guide, filled us in on the history, past and present, and it was fascinating. We saw some women actually scraping the salt into piles to let it dry. On the way out, we bought some salt to bring home with us. Definitely worth visiting.

Quality of Experience
Something different to do and a neat way to see scenery.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Fun driver and very friendly.
Transport
We had a private tour so it was easy to follow our guide and talk to him/ask questions.
Local specialist: Anne Godoy
Anne
Anne Godoy
Local specialist in Lima | Replied on Nov 18, 2024

Dear Graham & Patrick
I have not many words to express how happy I was when reading your review, and mostly that you had such a great time while you were traveling with us, and also for taking the time to review each experience. Julito sends his regards, he and Antigua Casona San Blas make such a good and personal experience, I wish all our travelers could experience.

Thank you for kind words, it was very nice crafting the best trip for you two. If you every come back to Peru, please let us know.
I wish you the best on your future trips!

The trip was truly incredible and beyond our ...
Peru | Sep 7 - Sep 25, 2024

Mark
Mark D.
Kansas City, MO | Reviewed on Nov 01, 2024
The trip was truly incredible and beyond our expectations, to be honest. We spent roughly 13 days traveling between Lima, the Amazon, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco. Next, we headed to Argentina for 6 days where we fell in love with Buenos Aires during our time there and at a Gaucho ranch in addition to a stunning 2 days at Iguazu Falls where we even wnet to Brazil for the day! Kristy from Kim Kim was a fantastic help throughout the booking and trip process; her knowledge was... Read more

The trip was truly incredible and beyond our expectations, to be honest. We spent roughly 13 days traveling between Lima, the Amazon, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco. Next, we headed to Argentina for 6 days where we fell in love with Buenos Aires during our time there and at a Gaucho ranch in addition to a stunning 2 days at Iguazu Falls where we even wnet to Brazil for the day!

Kristy from Kim Kim was a fantastic help throughout the booking and trip process; her knowledge was key to ensuring the trip exactly met our expectations, and it didn't disappoint. She was even available throughout the trip for any issues or questions we had and provided some brilliant insider knowledge on food, trips, and recommendations she knew we would like!

All the elements worked seamlessly from travel to flights and hotels, so we didn’t have to worry or think about anything, to be honest—it was very slick. Finally, a special thank you to our guides, with whom we spent some unforgettable times: Henry in the Amazon, Frank in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, Feddy at Iguazu Falls, and Rosa in Buenos Aires. All of you really made the trip special and one we will never forget!

Planning is now underway for a return to South America next year! :)

Hotel Reviews
Be Jardin Escondido by Coppola
Buenos Aires

What a place! The staff and the hotel were 10/10 in every way. It really is a beautiful small boutique hotel (with 4 rooms) in a brilliant Buenos Aires neighborhood.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Such a big thank you, as everyone was so nice and really made the stay very special. :)
Cleanliness & Comfort
Las Qolqas EcoResort Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo

Beautiful! We could have stayed here for weeks; it was very peaceful in beautiful surroundings. The food and spa next to the river were also just perfect.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica
Puerto Maldonado

What a 3 days in the Amazon! Just incredible. Our guide Henry was a fountain of knowledge throughout. What a location, too! The food was great, and the stunning main house where you eat is beautiful. The only thing needed was some pillows for the chairs at the tables; it would make dining much more comfortable. ;)

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
All were brilliant, but special thanks to our guide Henry. His passion, knowledge, and jokes really made the excursions and adventures even more unique.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Palacio del Inka Cusco
Cusco

Stunning hotel in the center of Cusco just beautiful! Make sure you look out for the baby alpaca in the courtyard; he loves carrots! :) We loved the spa and water therapy as well; it’s a must after a long day or if you need some R&R.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Loi Suites Iguazú Hotel
Puerto Iguazú

Jungle hotel where you are right in it, with bouncing bridges that connect the buildings (fun)! There’s a great adults' pool overlooking the river (perfect for a few sundowners). We found it to be the perfect laid-back hotel for exploring Iguazu.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
El Mapi by Inkaterra
Lima

Right in the center of town, great location, and just 1 minute from the train station. It’s okay for a night with a view if you’re there to see Machu Picchu, but the rooms could use some better ventilation plus quite noisy. The staff were helpful, and oxygen is available quickly if the altitude gets to you.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pullman Lima Miraflores
Miraflores, Lima

Perfect city hotel right on the Pacific Ocean!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Lima Food Tour - (PM Tour)
Lima Food Tour - (PM Tour)
Peru
Quality of Experience
Food
v v tasty and fantatsic to go to 4 different places and explore the city!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
really good
Local specialist: Kristy Tizon
Kristy
Kristy Tizon
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Nov 04, 2024

Hi Mark,

Thank you so much for taking the time to review your trip for us. I am so happy to hear you had such a wonderful trip. Thank you for trusting me with the planning! I'd be happy to help again with any future trips to South America. Take care! :)

Best,
Kristy