Things to do in Peru
3 destinations in Peru, when to visit each, and what a trip actually costs.
Places to visit in Peru
- Things to do in Arequipa culture, adventure, nature
- Things to do in Cusco culture, adventure, nature
- Things to do in Lima city, food, culture
Best time to visit Peru
When flights to each destination are cheapest.
- Arequipa
- The cheapest months to fly to Arequipa are May through early June and September through October (shoulder seasons), when round-trip fares from North American hubs can run 20-35% less than the July-August or December-January peaks. Flying midweek (Tuesday/Wednesday) and booking domestic Lima-AQP legs at least three weeks out yields the best savings.
- Cusco
- The cheapest flights and accommodation fall in Cusco's shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October, where you can save 20-35% versus the June-August dry-season peak; flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday departures) shaves another 10-15% off domestic and international legs.
- Lima
- The cheapest months to fly to Lima are May through early July and September through October, when fares can run 25-35% below peak December-January holiday pricing. Flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday departures) saves an additional 10-15% compared to Friday or Sunday travel.
Is Peru expensive?
It depends on the city and how you travel. Open any destination below and set your dates, budget and home airport to get an estimated total for flights, stays and day-to-day spending, rather than a generic average.
Free things to do in Peru
- Arequipa: Yanahuara Mirador Iconic sillar-stone archway viewpoint with a jaw-dropping panorama of El Misti and the city skyline, best at sunset.
- Cusco: Wander San Blas neighborhood Cobblestone lanes, whitewashed walls, artisan workshops, and hilltop views over the city, all completely free to explore.
- Lima: Walk the Miraflores Malecón Miles of clifftop parkland with ocean views, street performers, and free outdoor gyms.