Lima Tours & Vacations

Many nationalities will not need a visa for Peru and will be issued a free visitor permit in the form of a passport stamp. If you’re not eligible for a visitor permit on arrival, you must apply for a tourist visa in advance at your local Peruvian consulate or embassy. For more information, check the Peru Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or the Essential Trip Information.   

To enter Peru, you may also need: 

• A passport valid for at least six months after return  

• At least two blank pages in your passport 

• Proof of onward or exit travel 

• Proof of sufficient funds  

Peru is a fascinating country with four distinct geographical regions. Not many countries can offer beaches, mountains, rainforests and deserts in one visit. These distinct regions offer something for everyone, which is why most Intrepid tours from Lima operate all year round.

June, July and August are considered the driest months in the Highlands and Amazon basin and are optimal for hiking and river journeys. However, even during the rainy season in the Amazon, the rains only fall for a few hours at a time. In the Andes, the rainy season can sometimes just mean a bit of overcast weather. The advantage to travelling in these areas at this time is that many other travellers make the mistake of postponing their plans until the dry season, leaving you with more of Peru to yourself.

The best time to visit the infamous Nazca Lines or the coastal areas is from December to April, although the other months of the year are perfectly good times to visit as well. Remember that the Inca Trail is closed for cleaning during February, although there are other treks to Machu Picchu which are available at this time.

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Peru. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating. Your local leader will be able to help you find filtered water, and for environmental reasons, filling a reusable bottle is your best bet!

Many travellers fly into the capital of Cusco before taking the train or choosing a hiking tour. The stepping stone to Machu Picchu is Ollantaytambo, about 1.5 hours away from Cusco by bus.

From Ollantaytambo, the most common ways to get to Machu Picchu are:

• By train
• Hiking the Inca Trail (one way to Machu Picchu)
• Taking the equally scenic and rewarding Quarry Trail
• Trekking the challenging 8-day Choquequirao Trail

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance