THE COUNTRY
It gives me goosebumps just thinking about this country. After travelling year after year, people always ask me what my favourite countries are that I've visited, Peru is always a country I boast about! The amount of beauty this country offers makes it really stand out for me.
Home to many natural wonders of the world with the likes of Machu Piccu - one of the 7 Wonders, Lake Titicaca - one of the largest lakes in South America which is also the world's highest navigable body of water, and the Amazon - the largest rainforest in the world. Words can't even describe how beautiful this country is.
My time spent in Peru was one of the most amazing travel experiences I've had! I think I was even drooling half the time and had to pick up pieces of my brain off the ground because the beauty of the country blew my mind plenty of times. Beautiful is even an understatement to describe this country, that's how amazing this place is.
VISA/ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Before entering Peru, ensure that your passport is valid for the next 6 months from the date of your entry into the country. A tourist visa is free for up to 183 days. You also need to make sure have enough blank pages for the visa stamp. You could also get a Machu Piccu stamp and a Lake Titicaca stamp once you visit these places but the most important part is having enough blank pages once you enter the country.
CURRENCY
Sol is the currency in Peru. ATM's are easily accessible anywhere. International debit and credit cards are accepted in the majority of the well established places. Peru both have notes and coins. Try to get rid of your coins as quickly as possible so you don't neglect it and having to stash it on the side. This is how you squeeze every penny when travelling.
TRANSPORTATION
Public bus/Shuttle - The most common way to get around the country for travellers. Cruz Del Sur is a well established company in Peru. The buses are safe, comfy, and cheap.
Taxis - Getting around the city I used taxis. The taxis here are fairly beat up but they are also very cheap especially if you find another traveller to split the cost with. As always, bargain and agree on a price before getting into one.
Walking - Most of the time I found myself walking to places as I would stay close to the city centre. Also a good way to stay active.
THINGS TO DO
Huacachina (Ica) - Visit the only natural oasis in Latin America. You will go sand boarding here and be driven up on a dune buggy. I highly suggest going here for the sunset. It is one amazing time!
Salkantay Trail - This is a 4-5 day hike getting up to over 4,600 m. This hike is one of the best hikes I've done in my life. It will take you through several glacier lakes, beautiful landscape, and a variety of trails. The Inca Trail is another popular hike that takes you more on the ruins.
Arequipa - Arequipa's city center is a thing of beauty. Take a stroll and admire what's around.
Machu Picchu - One of the New 7Wonders of the World. As touristy as this place may be, it still is one of the most majestic places I've been to. You can base yourself in Aguas Calientes then check it out first thing in the morning or you can include this as a part of the hike if you end up doing the Inca Trail.
Lago de Titicaca - Cruise down the largest navigable lake in Latin America. You will also get a chance to see the Floating Islands where people actually live! It is such a cool little island village!
Lima - A very well established city. Good to go for a walk and explore around.
Rainbow Mountain (Cusco) - Situated in the greater Andes Mountains, you can hike up to one of the most colourful mountains in the world.
Cusco - This is a beautiful city and there's plenty to see here. I recommend doing a free walking tour to learn more about it!
Colca Canyon - Often gets overlooked because of the other mountains in the country. Colca Canyon is over 3,500 m.
The Amazon - A must to see when you're up north of the country.
I am very convinced that this is a country that you will fall in love with. The natural beauty this country have is impressive. Don't wait any longer and consider this as your next travel destination and I can assure you that you wont regret it. I hope you found this guide useful and if you have any feedback or questions, I would love to hear from you so leave your comments down below. Happy adventuring everyone!