How do I choose an itinerary?
If we are building a holiday just for you, rest assured we have access a huge, unrivalled bank of services throughout the country. You can choose one of our suggested itineraries in Peru, the Alpaca trip covers most of the highlights; take it as it is or we’ll modify it to suit your needs.
When’s the best time to go?
Visitors’ dates are guided by climate, possible crowds in major holiday periods, or festival dates. There are a number of fiestas and religious festivals throughout the year, the best known being the Inti Raymi festival in Cusco, 24 June. The majority spend most of their time in the Andean region, where sunshine and good views are more or less reliable from June to September, although it can be cold at night.
The coast is sunny all year except for Lima where low cloud pervades from April/May to November. Jungle temperatures are more or less stable all year at around 30°C.
The countryside is most beautiful in May, just before the harvest, though the tawny fields of September/October have their own appeal. It’s less crowded with tourists at these times too.
Will I be affected by the altitude?
Severe altitude sickness affects only a very small number of visitors: they should descend immediately. For a larger minority, breathlessness or a short-lived headache are the main symptoms, treated by rest and plenty of water. Avoid the chances of suffering by climbing to altitudes over 3000m gradually, maybe spending a day or two at an intermediate altitude. Upon arriving at altitude, rest initially and drink plenty of liquids (not alcohol!)
What kind of accommodation is available?
The range and standard of hotel accommodation in Peru has improved dramatically. There are a few international chain hotels, but we tend to recommend locally-run properties, either chain (Libertador, Casa Andina), Inkaterra) or independent. These tend to combine a professional attitude with local colour, with indian/colonial features – many are converted mansions or convents. You may be surprised by the amenities and range of services offered. There are plenty of good-value tourist class hotels throughout the country. We probably have access to more of all of these than any other British tour operator.
Can I combine with another country?
A holiday in Peru can be combined with any of its neighbours; Ecuador and the Galápagos (fly from Lima to Quito, 2hrs) being the most popular. To the south, Bolivian landscapes are on an even larger scale and markets and local communities even more colourful and authentic: there’s a lovely route over the border at Lake Titicaca.
Several of our group tours combine countries including Peru, for example the Andean Flamingo and Hummingbird Classic Journeys or the Jacana, Pato Andino, or Condor Discovery Journeys.
What will the cost of living be for me?
Prices of meals out, taxi fares and entrance fees are lower than in the UK. Locally-produced wine is cheap and of varying quality but good Chilean and Argentinean wines are cheaper than in the UK.
You can spend less than £10 for a meal and a beer in a modest establishment. In a sophisticated eaterie in Lima or Cusco expect to pay £20 for a set price menu and maybe £25-£35 for à la carte – the quality will be good, too.
You can get across Cusco by taxi for a pound or two; £5-6 in Lima.
There is a huge variety of tempting souvenirs from necklaces to jumpers, belts and bags, carvings and paintings: here, you’ll pay according to quality. The best souvenir shops take credit cards.