A sense of meaning and connection: Peru travel tips from a local expert

Peru conjures up images of ancient cities, lonely mountains, and all the drama of a once-mighty civilization. The jewel in the crown of its historical treasures has to be the lost Inca city of Machu Picchu, high in the Andes Mountains. There’s so much more to discover, of course, from Chan Chan to the puzzling Nazca Lines etched in the desert floor, the wildlife-rich Amazon rainforest to buzzing cities that overwhelm with their charm and history. We caught up with Nicholas, our locally-based travel expert, for his Peru travel tips to inspire your next trip.

Top Peru travel tips from a local expert

What’s your favorite thing about living in Peru?

It’s a destination that really makes you connect and feel alive! Whether you enjoy its cuisine, friendly people, history, or dramatic nature; Peru brings back this sense of meaning and connection that nowadays escapes us in our daily lives.

What main piece of advice do you have for first-time visitors?

Peru is not a checklist of must-sees, so try to go beyond Machu Picchu and other well-known sites. Give yourself time to do something a little different, don’t rush from one place to the next, take the time to truly connect with each region you choose to visit. Sometimes, less is more!

Read more: Go off the beaten track in Peru

What are three top highlights you’d recommend experiencing on a trip to Peru?

In a nutshell, for a trip to Peru I would recommend that you:

• Venture beyond Machu Picchu, and explore the off-beat side of the Cusco region
• Discover our amazing cuisine through the eyes of locals in Lima or Arequipa
• Leave the crowds behind and connect with Peru’s amazing nature and history in the northern Andes of the Amazonas region (Chachapoyas)

What is one dish anyone visiting Peru should try?

Nowadays, Peruvian cuisine has gone beyond the traditional, and evokes creativity and art. Not long ago I tried a ceviche combined with purple corn, which was amazing. I highly recommend it, they sell it at a restaurant called Alqa in the Sacred Valley.

Read more: Mouthwatering Peruvian cuisine

When would you say is the best time to visit Peru?

My favorite time to explore Peru is from late April throughout the entirety of May, after the rain and before high season begins. October, November, and early December are also great, especially for visiting coastal and highland regions.

Make it happen

Eager to plan your next South American adventure? Our local experts are ready and waiting, with plenty more Peru travel tips to inspire a great escape. Get in touch with them today, and together you’ll start crafting your dream customized itinerary.