Solo Travel Peru

Rideshares and Taxis

Uber and Cabify operate in major cities, offering a safe and convenient way to navigate urban areas. In Lima, I took Uber all the time to get to areas of the city that were further from my hostel, and the prices were super fair. Taxis are abundant but vary in quality. It’s safer to use taxis from reputable companies or those arranged by hotels. Always agree on the fare before starting the journey.

Train Travel

The most famous train routes are operated by PeruRail and Inca Rail, including the scenic journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu and the luxurious Andean Explorer from Cusco to Puno. If you’re willing to spend more money on this experience, it is a unique way to visit lesser-known parts of the country and partake in true luxury.

For the PeruRail and Inca Rail trains, more popular and affordable, the service classes range from standard (economical) to luxury classes. The luxury services, like the Belmond Hiram Bingham, offer fine dining and panoramic views. Train tickets, especially to Machu Picchu, can sell out quickly. Booking well in advance is recommended, particularly during high season (May to September).

Remember, train travel in Peru is less about getting from point A to point B and more about the experience, with routes designed to showcase the country’s stunning landscapes.

Local Transportation

• Buses and Minivans (Combis): Widely used for short distances within cities and towns. They are cheap but can be crowded and less comfortable.
• Biking and Walking: In smaller towns and rural areas, renting a bike or walking can be a pleasant way to explore. In Lima, I rented a bike to explore neighborhoods like Miraflores and Barranco, but I wouldn’t use it as a mode of transportation to cover larger distances.

Renting a Car in Peru

Car rentals are available in major cities, airports, and popular tourist destinations in Peru. Companies like Hertz, Avis, Budget, and local firms offer a range of vehicles. Renters typically need to be at least 25 years old, have a valid driver’s license from their home country, and have an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Rates vary based on the vehicle type and rental duration. Expect additional costs for insurance, which is highly recommended. In urban areas and major highways, roads are generally in good condition. However, roads can be challenging in rural areas and the mountains, often unpaved and narrow. For navigation, GPS can be unreliable in remote areas. Having a route already mapped out on apps like Waze and Google Maps and planning your route in advance is advisable.

In Peru, traffic rules may be more loosely interpreted than in other countries. Be prepared for an aggressive driving style, especially in cities. Gas stations are widely available in cities and major highways but less so in remote areas. Keep your tank full when traveling long distances. In cities, parking can be scarce and often comes with a fee. Many hotels offer parking, sometimes at an extra cost.

Benefits of Renting a Car:

• Flexibility: Allows a flexible itinerary and the ability to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
• Convenience: Particularly beneficial for traveling to areas with limited public transportation.
• Scenic Drives: Peru offers some incredibly scenic drives, particularly along the coast and highlands.

When going from Lima to Ica, my boyfriend and I rented a car, allowing us to leave whenever we wanted and drive at our own pace, stopping to eat and see other places. However, it was significantly more expensive than catching a bus, so this might not be the best option if you have a tight budget.

Considerations:

• Insurance: Check if your travel insurance covers car rental and what liabilities you might face.
• Safety: Keep valuables out of sight and be cautious when driving at night, especially in rural areas.
• Altitude: When driving in high altitudes, like the Andes, be aware of the effects of altitude sickness.

Mid-Range Hotels and Boutique Properties

Mid-range hotels offer amenities like Wi-Fi, on-site dining, and sometimes pools or fitness centers. They’re found in both urban and rural areas, providing a comfortable stay without the luxury price tag. Expect to pay around $60 to $120 per night.

Boutique Hotels are characterized by their unique design, personalized service, and often locally inspired decor. They’re ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate and authentic experience. Prices can vary greatly depending on the location and level of luxury. Most of these hotels are found in rural areas, where travelers want an immersion into local culture.

Luxury Resorts and High-End Hotels

In destinations like the Sacred Valley or coastal areas, luxury resorts often feature stunning architecture, spa services, gourmet dining, and sometimes even include experiences like guided tours. Prices are typically upwards of $200 per night.

High-End Hotels, on the other hand, are found in major cities and tourist hotspots, offering world-class amenities, exquisite dining options, and impeccable service. These hotels cater to those seeking the utmost in luxury and comfort, with prices often exceeding $250 per night.

Homestays and Guest Houses

Homestays offer a unique cultural exchange, where you can participate in family activities and enjoy homemade local meals. They’re particularly popular in rural areas and smaller towns. Prices are very reasonable, often including meals. As always, be careful and make sure the families or individuals hosting you have good reviews on whichever app you are using.

Guest Houses are typically family-run, providing a cozy, home-like atmosphere. They offer fewer rooms than hotels, ensuring a quiet, personalized experience. They are a great option for those seeking a tranquil retreat with a local touch, especially in rural areas.

House-Sharing Apps

Platforms like Airbnb offer a wide range of options, from a room in a shared apartment to luxurious villas. They provide the comfort of a home and are a great way to meet locals. Prices can range from budget-friendly to high-end, depending on the property. In big cities like Lima and Cusco, there are plenty of Airbnb options to rent, and you can always find them in smaller towns as well. For those who want more autonomy, this is the perfect accommodation.

Eco-Lodges and Specialized Accommodations

Eco-Lodges are often located in the Amazon rainforest and other natural areas, focusing on environmental sustainability and offering guided nature tours. They provide a unique way to experience Peru’s natural beauty. Specialized Accommodations cater to specific interests like wellness retreats, vineyard stays, or historical haciendas. They offer unique experiences like wine tasting, yoga sessions, or horseback riding. Peru is filled with options for both, and I highlight recommend spending at least a night at a unique accommodation and experiencing something new.

Interaction with Locals and Cultural Etiquette

When I met my host in Arequipa, a firm handshake was followed by a warm “mucho gusto” (nice to meet you). It set the tone for a respectful yet friendly relationship. In Peru, addressing someone with respect is key. I always started with “Señor” or “Señora” until they suggested otherwise. This respect is especially crucial in rural or traditional communities. In a small mountain village, I learned that direct eye contact isn’t always common, especially among the older generations. Recognizing and adapting to these subtle cultural norms was essential for respectful interactions.

Polite vs. Rude Behaviors

Being punctual for formal engagements, respecting local customs and traditions, and being modest in dress and behavior are all signs of politeness and respect. Offering my seat to an elderly person on a crowded bus in Lima was met with nods of approval. Small acts of kindness are deeply valued.

Refusing food or drink offered by a host can be seen as rude. Loud or boisterous behavior in public, especially in religious or traditional settings, is frowned upon. While dining in a local’s home, I made sure to finish everything on my plate. Declining food can be perceived as rude, something I learned early in my travels.

Local Festivals and Community Events

Here are some of the most famous and important holidays and festivities in Peru:

• Inti Raymi Experience: Held in Cusco on June 24th, this Inca festival celebrates the winter solstice and the Inca sun god. Witnessing Inti Raymi was a spectacle of colors, music, and history. The reenactment of Inca rituals in the Sacsayhuamán fortress was a profound insight into ancient traditions.
• Semana Santa in Ayacucho: Especially vibrant in Ayacucho, it features religious processions and traditional festivities.
• Puno’s Fiesta de la Candelaria: In Puno, held in early February, it’s one of Peru’s most colorful festivals with music, dance, and elaborate costumes.
• The Lord of the Miracles (El Señor de los Milagros): A religious procession held in Lima in October, featuring a massive purple-clad parade.
• Local Markets and Community Gatherings: Participating in local markets and community events can provide a deep insight into Peruvian daily life and culture. It’s a great way to interact with locals and experience the diversity of Peruvian society.

Adventure Activities

Probably the top activity in Peru, especially when you venture into the Andes. The Valle Sagrado is packed with different routes and treks for different levels, covering steep climbs or leisure walks that always take you to a ruin or a natural paradise. Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was challenging but rewarding. The view of the ancient city at sunrise was worth every step. In Huaraz, the Santa Cruz Trek offers stunning Andean landscapes.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: A bucket-list trek offering stunning views and Incan ruins.
• Santa Cruz Trek in Huaraz: Known for its breathtaking Andean scenery, including turquoise lakes and high mountain passes.
• Colca Canyon: Offers various trekking routes with chances to see Andean condors and traditional villages.

Peru’s long Pacific coastline is a paradise for surfers. You can catch some excellent waves in Huanchaco and enjoy the laid-back surf culture there.

• Huanchaco: Famous for its long left-hand break and traditional reed fishing boats.
• Lobitos: A quieter destination with consistent waves, suitable for experienced surfers.
• Chicama: Home to one of the world’s longest left-hand waves, attracting surfers from around the globe.

Wildlife Watching

In the Tambopata National Reserve, you can spot macaws, capybaras, and even an elusive jaguar. Boat trips on the Amazon River offer glimpses of pink river dolphins and countless bird species.

• Tambopata National Reserve: Offers one of Peru’s densest concentrations of wildlife.
• Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve: Accessible from Iquitos, known for its rich biodiversity and river-based tours.
• Ballestas Islands: Home to sea lions, penguins, and a myriad of bird species, easily accessible from Paracas.

Healing Spas

In the Sacred Valley, many people visit spas that offer treatments using local herbs and traditional techniques. The tranquility and connection to nature are truly rejuvenating.

• Sacred Valley: Many retreats offer spa treatments using Andean techniques and local ingredients.
• Aguas Calientes: Hot springs in the town near Machu Picchu provide a relaxing escape after a day of hiking.
• Lares Hot Springs: Located in a more remote part of the Sacred Valley, ideal for a quiet, rejuvenating experience.

Yoga Retreats

There are numerous retreats, especially in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, where the serene environment and spiritual history of the land enhance the yoga experience. Participating in a yoga session with the backdrop of the Andes is a moment of pure bliss, perfect for those who want to conect with nature and with themselves.

• Cusco and Sacred Valley: Known for their serene environments and spiritual significance.
• Máncora: Offers beachfront yoga retreats combining relaxation with ocean views.
• Iquitos: Jungle retreats provide a unique backdrop for yoga and meditation, enhancing the connection with nature.

Spiritual Ceremonies

Many travelers participate in an Ayahuasca ceremony, led by local shamans. These are profound spirituals journey. But remember, it’s important to approach these experiences with respect and an open mind.

• Ayahuasca Ceremonies: Often held in the Amazon region, led by experienced shamans.
• Cusco and Sacred Valley: Local shamans conduct traditional Andean ceremonies, offering insights into indigenous spiritual practices.
• Lake Titicaca: Participate in traditional ceremonies on the shores of the sacred lake or on islands like Amantaní.

Brief History of Peruvian Cuisine and Regional Differences

Peruvian cuisine is a melting pot of influences that reflect the country’s diverse history and geography. It began with the traditional practices of the indigenous peoples, primarily the Inca, who cultivated staples like potatoes, maize, and quinoa. The Spanish conquest in the 16th century introduced new ingredients like rice, wheat, and meats (beef, pork, and chicken), along with culinary techniques from Europe.

The 18th and 19th centuries saw an influx of immigrants from Africa, China, Japan, and Italy, each adding their unique flavors and methods to Peruvian cooking. The African influence is evident in dishes using offal and tubers, while Chinese immigrants, or the “coolies,” brought stir-frying and rice-based dishes, leading to the popular ‘Chifa’ cuisine, a fusion of Chinese and Peruvian flavors. The Japanese influence, known as ‘Nikkei cuisine,’ introduced raw fish preparations, influencing dishes like tiradito.

Regional Differences in Peruvian Cuisine

Thinking ceviche will be good all over Peru is like thinking pizza is phenomenal in all Italian cities. Because the country has such diverse ecosystems, each region has developed its own particular cuisine, and knowing where to look for certain dishes will make your experience even more authentic and phenomenal.

• Ceviche: The national dish, typically made with fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, spiced with chili peppers, and accompanied by onions, sweet potatoes, and corn. The best ceviche is in Lima, or other coastal cities (I recommend La Rosa Nautica in Lima, where I ate the best ceviche of my life)
• Lomo Saltado: A stir-fry that combines marinated strips of sirloin with onions, tomatoes, and other ingredients, served with rice and French fries. It is such a comfort food, and you can find it all over Peru.
• Aji de Gallina: A creamy and slightly spicy dish made with shredded chicken in a sauce of milk, bread, yellow Peruvian chili, garlic, and cheese. Pretty good for those winter months when it’s cold outside and the aji warms up your heart.
• Causa Rellena: A cold appetizer made from layers of mashed potato mixed with key lime, onion, and chili, and filled with tuna or chicken. It is zesty and light and perfect for a small meal.
• Rocoto Relleno: Spicy bell peppers stuffed with minced meat and vegetables, topped with melted cheese.
• Alpaca Steak: Tender and flavorful, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional beef and is commonly served in the Andean region. Alpaca meat is leaner than beef, very flavorful, and definitely worth the try.
• Cuy: This is guinea pig meat, with a crispy skin and juice meat. Many people avoid eating up because guinea pigs are so cute, but it is an authentic experience, and I recommend you try it at least once.

Finding Good Local Spots

I’ve found that asking local residents or staff at your accommodation leads to discovering some hidden gems. They know where to find authentic and delicious meals at good prices. And, obviously, the best eateries are almost never the most fancy or expensive ones. Peruvian food is people’s food, so most of the best dishes will be super affordable.

Visiting local markets is not only a culinary adventure but also an insight into Peruvian culture. Markets like Mercado San Pedro in Cusco offer a range of fresh produce and cooked meals. I used to go to these markers almost every day for fresh fruit juice in the morning. For a unique experience, I recommend visiting a local chifa (Chinese-Peruvian restaurant). The fusion dishes they create, like Arroz Chaufa (Peruvian fried rice), are a testament to Peru’s multicultural influences.

Joining a food tour, especially in cities like Lima, can also be a great way to sample a variety of dishes and learn about the culinary history.

Street Food

Peru has great street food, some of the best being:

• Anticuchos: Grilled skewers of marinated meat (often beef heart) are a popular street food.
• Picarones: A sweet treat, these are Peruvian doughnuts made from squash and sweet potato, deep-fried and served with a sweet syrup.
• Juices and Smoothies: With Peru’s abundance of tropical fruits, the juice bars found on many street corners offer fresh and delicious options.

Packing for Different Regions and Activities

Coastal Areas

In the coastal regions like Lima and Máncora, you’ll experience a mild to warm climate, especially during the summer months (December to April). For these areas, lightweight and breathable clothing is a must to stay comfortable under the sun. Think cotton shirts, shorts, and summer dresses. The coast is also synonymous with beautiful beaches, so swimwear is essential for enjoying the Pacific waters. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or trying your hand at surfing, don’t forget to pack sun protection – sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are key to guarding against the strong coastal sun.

Andean Highlands

The Andean region, which includes places like Cusco and Huaraz, can be quite a contrast with its cooler and more variable weather. Here, layering is your best strategy. During the day, the sun can be warm, but temperatures drop significantly after sunset. Pack a mix of short and long-sleeved shirts, a fleece or sweater, and a good-quality jacket, preferably waterproof if you’re visiting during the rainy season (November to March). Sturdy footwear is essential, especially if you plan on hiking or exploring archaeological sites like Machu Picchu. The terrain can be rough and uneven, so comfortable, supportive hiking shoes or boots are advisable. Also, given the altitude, a hat and gloves can be a lifesaver for chilly mornings and evenings.

Amazon Rainforest

Preparing for the Amazon, such as trips to Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado, demands gear for a hot, humid, and rainy environment. Insect repellent is non-negotiable to protect against mosquitoes, and so is lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to cover your skin. Opt for breathable fabrics to stay cool while shielding yourself from insect bites. Waterproof bags or cases are a smart addition to keep your electronics and important documents safe from sudden downpours and the general humidity of the rainforest. You might also consider a light raincoat or poncho, as tropical showers can be frequent and unpredictable.

Considerations for Different Seasons

The dry season, spanning from May to October, is generally the best time for outdoor activities across Peru. In the Andes, the days are clear, but nights can be quite cold, so warm clothing is essential. I went to Peru in June, and it was the best time to go. Although it was cold, the sky was clear everyday, and we were able to do all the outdoors activities we wanted. On the other hand, the wet season from November to April sees heavier rainfall, particularly in the jungle and highland areas. This calls for waterproof clothing and sturdy, water-resistant footwear.

Incorporating these region and climate-specific packing tips will ensure you’re well-prepared for the diverse experiences Peru offers, from sun-drenched coastal towns and chilly Andean heights to the humid Amazonian jungles. Remember, being prepared with the right gear will greatly enhance your enjoyment and comfort as you explore the rich landscapes and cultures of Peru.

Solo Travel As A Female

Female solo travelers often have a positive experience in Peru, but taking extra precautions is important. Dress conservatively to blend in and avoid unwanted attention, as local Peruvian women tend to be pretty conservative, especially in more traditional cities like Cusco or Huacachina.

Trust your instincts. If a situation or person makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself from that environment. It is better to be safe than sorry. Also, stay connected. Share your travel itinerary with friends or family and regularly check-in. If you embark on a nature adventure, you might lose service for a few days, but notify your family beforehand, and always touch base whenever you can.

Scams To Look For

• Fake Tourist Assistance: Be wary of individuals offering unsolicited help or tours, which may lead to overpriced services or unsafe areas.
• Spiked Drinks and Food: Never leave your drink unattended and be cautious when accepting food or drinks from strangers.
• Currency Exchange Scams: Use official money exchange services and be aware of counterfeit bills.

Visa Requirements and Other Travel Documentation

A quick internet research will let you know any necessary documentation you need and how to get it. Also, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Peru.

Keep digital and physical copies of your passport, travel insurance, and other important documents. If planning to drive, consider getting an International Driving Permit– even if they don’t ask for it, it is always good to have it as a precaution.

Budget Planning

Estimate Your Daily Costs:

• Accommodation: Budget for your preferred style of lodging.
• Food: Set aside funds for dining experiences, from street food to fine dining.
• Activities: Consider the costs of tours, entrance fees to attractions, and any special experiences.
• Transportation: Factor in inter-city travel as well as local transportation.
• Miscellaneous: Always have a buffer for unexpected expenses or souvenirs.

Currency & Banking:

• Peru’s currency is the Sol (PEN). Have some local currency for small purchases, since a lot of street vendors or market stands don’t accept card.
• Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid issues with your credit/debit cards abroad.