Peru recently got some big awards in the 2024 World Travel Awards. This shows again that it’s a really good place to visit, especially if you like trying great food and experiencing different cultures.
People have known for a while that Peru is a complete travel spot because of its history, nature, and living traditions. This year, the awards gave a shout-out to Peru in three main areas: being the world’s best for food, the world’s best for culture, and having the world’s best tourist spot, which is Machu Picchu.
No matter how much money you plan to spend, Peru has some amazing places to eat.
Here in Cusco (around 11,152 feet or 3,399 meters above sea level), folks are super happy about these awards. Sure, it’s partly because many travelers heading to Machu Picchu come through Cusco first. But Cusco, once the main city of the Inca empire, has way more cool stuff to see and do!
Fitting with the award for top food spot, the city of Cusco, the Sacred Valley (altitudes vary, but generally lower than Cusco, like around 9,000 feet or 2,800 meters in some areas), and Machu Picchu (about 7,972 feet or 2,430 meters above sea level) offer some of the best food experiences in Peru. You can find fantastic local dishes here that show off flavors from all over the country. These meals are made by good cooks using really fresh stuff grown nearby.
If you want to eat out in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, there are places for every budget. You can find cheap lunch spots perfect for backpackers who are hungry after, say, doing the Inca Trail. There are also really fancy restaurants, like La Cicciolina or Chicha by Gastón Acurio in Cusco city, and El Huacatay or Mil Centro in the Sacred Valley.
And yeah, when you visit Machu Picchu, you’ll likely pass through Lima (elevation varies, but near sea level, around 505 feet or 154 meters in the historic center) first. Peru’s capital city is home to some restaurants considered among the world’s best, like Kjolle, Maido, and Mayta.
So, whatever your travel budget looks like, ask about the best places to eat for you. Make sure to try the local food yourself – ¡Buen provecho! (That’s “enjoy your meal” in Spanish, something you’ll hear a lot).
Planning Your Trip
A common way to see Peru is to fly into Lima, maybe spend a day or two there to see the city and eat at some spots, then catch a flight to Cusco. From Cusco, you can head into the Sacred Valley or go straight towards Machu Picchu. People often spend a few days in the Cusco area to get used to the altitude, maybe explore the Sacred Valley, then take a train or hike to Machu Picchu.
Tips for Visiting Peru
- Take it Easy: Especially in high places like Cusco, the altitude can get to you. Drink water, avoid heavy meals and alcohol right away, and just chill on your first day. It’s called “soroche” here (altitude sickness). Coca tea helps some folks.
- Money: The money is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Lots of places take cash, but cards work in bigger hotels and restaurants. It’s good to have some small bills for local markets or taxis.
- Getting Around: For longer distances, flying saves time. Buses are common for travel between cities too. Inside cities like Cusco, you can walk or use taxis. Negotiate taxi fares before you get in if they don’t use a meter.
- Stay Safe: Like anywhere, be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy areas or at night. Keep your valuables secure.
- Learn a Little Spanish: Knowing a few phrases like “Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you), “Cuánto cuesta?” (How much does it cost?) makes things easier and locals appreciate it.
What to Pack
Layering is key! Weather can change fast, especially in the mountains.
- Clothes you can layer (t-shirts, long sleeves, fleece or sweater).
- A waterproof jacket or poncho.
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses (the sun is strong at high altitude).
- Insect repellent (especially for Machu Picchu and lower areas).
- A small backpack for day trips.
- Any personal medications, plus maybe something for stomach issues or altitude.
- A reusable water bottle.
Best Time to Visit
Generally, the dry season from May to October is popular, especially for hiking the Inca Trail or just sunny days at Machu Picchu and Cusco. The wet season is roughly November to April, which means rain, b
