Find Cheap Flights to Peru and Book Your Airfare from the United States

This is the wet season in the Andes, but the coast is warm and sunny. Expect rain in Cusco and Machu Picchu.

This shoulder season offers the best of both worlds: lower prices than peak season and less rain in the Andes.

This is the dry season in the Andes and the peak time for hiking and visiting Machu Picchu, guaranteeing clear skies.

Another excellent shoulder season with fewer crowds than winter and before the heavy rains start. Ideal for budget travelers.

United States citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays in Peru, provided the stay is less than 183 days. You must have a valid passport that will not expire for at least six months after your arrival date. Upon entry, you will receive an Andean Migration Card (TAM), which you must keep safe as it is required when leaving the country. If you plan to stay longer or travel for business or study, you must apply for the correct visa category before your trip. Always check the latest entry requirements with the Peruvian embassy or consulate well before booking your cheap flight tickets to Peru, as rules can change without notice. Keep copies of your passport and TAM separate from the originals in case of loss or theft during your Peru vacation.

Peru offers varied transport options. For long distances, especially between major cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, domestic flights are the fastest and most convenient choice. Look for Peru airfare deals to save money. If time allows, comfortable overnight buses are an affordable alternative, offering scenic routes, though travel times are much longer. Within cities, taxis are common, but always use reputable companies or ride-sharing apps, especially in Lima, and agree on the fare before starting the journey. Public transport, like Lima's Metropolitano bus system, is efficient but can be crowded. In Cusco, walking is often the best way to see the historic center. When arriving at Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM), pre-book a reliable airport transfer or use authorized taxi services to ensure safety and fair pricing.

Peru offers a wide range of lodging, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. In major tourist hubs like Cusco and Lima, consider staying in central, well-regarded neighborhoods. In Lima, Miraflores and Barranco are popular for safety and amenities. In Cusco, staying near the Plaza de Armas is convenient but can be noisy; look for options a few blocks away for quieter nights. When booking, check if breakfast is included, especially when staying at smaller guesthouses. Many hotels in high-altitude areas like Cusco offer oxygen support for guests experiencing altitude sickness. Always read recent reviews, focusing on cleanliness and security. Booking your accommodation shortly after securing your cheap flight tickets to Peru, particularly during peak season, ensures you get the best rates and locations.

While Peru is generally safe for tourists, petty crime like pickpocketing is common, especially in crowded areas like markets, bus stations, and tourist sites in Lima and Cusco. Always keep valuables secure and out of sight. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. Be wary of common scams, such as fake taxis or people trying to distract you while an accomplice steals your bag. Only use ATMs inside banks or secure locations. It is wise to carry only copies of your passport and visa, leaving the originals locked up at your hotel. If you plan to hike, never go alone and hire a licensed guide. Remember that altitude sickness is a real risk in the Andes; take time to acclimatize in cities like Cusco before strenuous activity.

Peruvian food is famous worldwide, blending indigenous traditions with Spanish, African, and Asian influences. Must-try dishes include ceviche (raw fish marinated in lime juice), lomo saltado (stir-fried beef with onions and tomatoes), and aji de gallina (creamy chicken stew). In the Andes, try alpaca meat or cuy (guinea pig). Dining is generally relaxed. Lunch is the main meal of the day, often featuring a 'menu del día'—a cheap, fixed-price meal. Tipping around 10% is customary in mid-range and upscale restaurants. Always drink bottled water, even in major cities. Street food can be delicious, but choose vendors who are busy and prepare food fresh. Sampling the local flavors is a key part of your Peru experience, so be adventurous and enjoy the diverse culinary landscape.

Peruvians are welcoming and polite. A handshake is the standard greeting, while a light kiss on the cheek is common among women and between close friends. Punctuality is often flexible, known as 'hora peruana,' so expect delays. When speaking with locals, a few phrases in Spanish, even just 'hello' (hola) and 'thank you' (gracias), are greatly appreciated. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly. Bargaining is acceptable in markets but not in stores or restaurants. Photography of indigenous people, especially in the Andes, should be done respectfully; always ask permission first, and sometimes a small tip is expected. Showing respect for their heritage enhances your travel experience and helps you connect with the heart of Peru.