A Brief History of
Peru
Peru is one of those destinations that feels almost mythical before you even arrive. You picture mist rising around Machu Picchu, colorful markets in Cusco, llamas grazing beneath snow-capped Andes peaks, and the Amazon stretching endlessly into the horizon. But Peru is much more than one postcard moment, it’s a country layered with history, culture, and landscapes that make every walk feel like an adventure.
Long before the Spanish arrived, Peru was home to remarkable civilizations like the Norte Chico, Moche, Nazca, and eventually the mighty Inca Empire, whose capital was centered in Cusco. The Incas built extraordinary stone cities, temples, and an extensive network of roads stretching across the Andes, many of which still shape hiking routes today. In the 1500s, Spanish conquest changed the country dramatically, blending Indigenous traditions with colonial architecture, religion, and cuisine. Today, Peru carries both histories side by side—Inca walls beneath Spanish cathedrals, ancient traditions woven into everyday life, and mountain trails that still feel sacred. Britannica notes Peru’s geography spans the coast, Andes, and Amazon, helping explain its incredible cultural and natural diversity.
For walkers, readers, and wanderers, Peru is a dream. It’s a place where you can spend the morning climbing ancient stone paths and the evening sipping pisco sours in a lantern-lit plaza.
What to Know
Before You Go
The country spans the Pacific coast, high Andes, and Amazon basin. That variety shapes everything from what to pack to when to visit and how to move between regions.
01 | ARRIVAL
Visas & Entry
U.S. visitors usually do not need a tourist visa for stays under 90 days. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond arrival, and you may be asked for proof of onward or return travel. Immigration officers determine the final length of stay.
Double-check current rules before flying, especially if the trip includes other South American countries
02 | WHEN TO GO
Best Time to
Visit
Fewer crowds and lovely walking weather.
Peru Travel ↗
03 | IN YOUR BAG
What to Pack
✓ Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
✓ Layers for changing temperatures
✓ Fleece or lightweight down jacket
✓ Rain jacket
✓ Hat, sunglasses, & sunscreen
✓ Refillable water bottle
✓ Daypack for hikes & day trips
✓ Power bank for long travel days
✓ Bug spray for jungle areas and Sacred Valley stays
✓ Small cash for taxis, markets, and tips
✓ Altitude helpers (hydration tablets or coca tea)
✓ Type C Plug Adapter
The mountain sun is no joke, even when it feels cool.
Heading to Peru? From Lima’s coast to the Andes and the Amazon, this complete packing checklist covers the clothing, footwear, travel essentials, health supplies, and gear you’ll need for every adventure. Save it, print it, and pack with confidence!
04 | BUDGET
Average Costs
U.S. – Lima flights
Round trip economy
Per night
Compare travel & stays
Hotels.com ↗
05 | ON THE MOVE
Getting
around
Peru
Flights connect Lima with Cusco, Arequipa, Juliaca, and Puerto Maldonado and save many hours.
By taxi
JetSMART ↗
Lima Subway ↗
06 | THE BEST WAY
On foot
Wander Cusco’s cobbled streets, explore Sacred Valley ruins, hike Rainbow Mountain, follow ancient Inca pathways, or commit to a multi-day trek.
Some of the best travel memories here happen slowly, with no real rush.
USEFUL LINKS
Walks, trails &
destinations
Sacred Valley ruins ↗
07 | QUICK BASICS
Currency, language & time zone
CURRENCY
LANGUAGE
TIME ZONE
Local essentials
08 | GOOD TO KNOW
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should I spend in Peru?
For a first visit, plan to spend 10–14 days in Peru. This gives you enough time to explore Lima, discover the colonial streets of Cusco, visit the Sacred Valley, and experience Machu Picchu. If you'd like to add destinations such as the Amazon Rainforest, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa, or longer hiking adventures, consider staying two to three weeks.
What is the best time to visit Peru?
Peru is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on where you're traveling. May through September is ideal for visiting Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the Andes, thanks to the dry season and clear skies. Lima, on the Pacific coast, enjoys its warmest, sunniest weather from December through April, while the winter months are often cooler and overcast.
Do I need a visa to visit Peru?
U.S. citizens traveling to Peru for tourism typically do not need a visa for short stays. You'll need a valid passport, and immigration officials determine the length of your stay upon arrival. Always check the latest entry requirements before your trip.
Do I need to worry about altitude sickness in Peru?
It depends on where you're traveling. Lima is at sea level, so altitude isn't a concern there. However, Cusco (11,152 feet/3,399 meters), the Sacred Valley (approximately 9,400 feet/2,865 meters), and many Andean destinations are at high elevations, where some travelers experience altitude sickness.
To help your body adjust, take it easy on your first day, stay well hydrated, avoid excessive alcohol, and allow time to acclimate before strenuous activities. Many travelers also find coca tea or coca candies, which are commonly available in hotels and shops throughout Cusco and the Sacred Valley, helpful for easing mild symptoms. If you're concerned about altitude sickness or have experienced it before, talk to your healthcare provider before your trip about prescription medications such as Acetazolamide (Diamox), which can help prevent or reduce symptoms when taken as directed. If you develop severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, confusion, or trouble walking, descend to a lower elevation immediately and seek medical attention.
Is Peru a good destination for walking and hiking?
Absolutely. Peru is one of South America's premier destinations for exploring on foot. Wander through Lima's historic center and the oceanfront Malecón, stroll the cobblestone streets of Cusco, explore the villages of the Sacred Valley, or hike to waterfalls, alpine lakes, and ancient Inca ruins. Whether you're looking for leisurely city walks or challenging mountain treks, Peru offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.
Walk the old Inca stones. Pause for alpacas crossing the trail. Spend longer than planned in a café overlooking a plaza. Let the altitude force you to move a little slower and notice a little more.
José María Arguedas, Deep Rivers
THOUGHTFULLY RESEARCHED
Written by Jacqueline Miller, founder of Adventurous Ambles. Through firsthand travel, original photography, and detailed route research, Jacqueline creates walking guides, hiking resources, destination reading lists, and travel inspiration for curious travelers. Unless otherwise noted, all content and photography on Adventurous Ambles are original works protected by copyright.
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