Planning a trip to Peru? TRAVELS.EDU.VN is here to guide you through the best ways How To Travel In Peru, from navigating public transport to enjoying scenic train rides, ensuring a memorable adventure. Discover Peru’s diverse landscapes, from the bustling streets of Lima to the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu, with ease and confidence through our expert advice on local transport, car rentals, and air travel.
1. What Are The Most Common Public Transportation Options In Peru?
Public transportation in Peru includes micros (buses) and combis (vans) for city travel, offering an affordable way to commute in cities like Lima, Arequipa, Cuzco, and Trujillo. For longer distances, reputable coach services like Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Movil Tours provide organized interregional routes.
Micros and combis are commonly used in metropolitan areas for short distances. According to local insights, a 40km (25-mile) bus ride in Lima can take around two hours due to frequent stops. These options are exceptionally local and cheap, typically costing less than S/4 (approximately US$1). However, they may not have fixed schedules, and routes aren’t always available online.
For more structured travel, bus companies like Peru Hop cater to tourists with hop-on-hop-off services, primarily in the south of Peru. Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Movil Tours are recommended for routes to northern destinations like Máncora, Oxapampa, or Huaraz. These companies offer more organized coach services for longer interregional routes.
2. How Do You Pick The Best Bus Company For Traveling In Peru?
Choosing the best bus company involves researching based on your travel needs and destination. Peru Hop is ideal for tourist-focused travel in southern Peru, while Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Movil Tours are recommended for northern destinations and long-distance routes.
Peru Hop caters specifically to tourists, offering hop-on-hop-off services that allow travelers to spend time at each destination before continuing their journey. The routes are primarily limited to the southern part of Peru. These buses offer amenities tailored to tourists, such as English-speaking staff and planned stops.
For destinations in northern Peru, such as Máncora, Oxapampa, or Huaraz, companies like Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Movil Tours are highly recommended. These companies provide more traditional bus services, often preferred by local families and business travelers, with extensive routes covering major cities and regions. These bus lines offer different classes of service with varying amenities, impacting comfort and price.
Brightly colored Peru Hop bus travels along a road in Peru, showcasing its tourist-focused travel services.
3. What Should You Consider When Driving In Peru?
Driving in Peru offers adventure but requires time, a substantial budget, and tolerance for chaotic traffic. Rental cars are available but not cheap, so they are best suited for short trips. Consider renting a four-wheel-drive vehicle, especially for travel to the jungle or Andes, due to the rough terrain.
Peru’s most important highway, the Carretera Panamericana, runs north and south and is part of the Americas’ Pan-American highway. While long stretches of the coastal desert can become monotonous, there are opportunities to stop for fresh bread or discover secluded beaches. Always ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with necessary tools and spare parts.
According to driving advice, renting a car is more suitable for mini-trips of two to three days rather than a complete tour of the country due to the cost. Opting for a four-wheel-drive model is advisable when heading towards the jungle or Andes because of the rough terrain. Always carry extra fuel, water, and emergency supplies, especially when traveling in remote areas.
4. Are Taxis And Moto-Taxis Safe And Affordable In Peru?
Taxis and moto-taxis are affordable options in Peru, but safety varies. Always ask locals about standard pricing to avoid overpaying. In major cities like Lima, Uber is available, providing greater safety and consistent pricing. Moto-taxis are common and cheaper in smaller towns.
In Lima, taxis are relatively cheap compared to the US and Europe, with average fares costing around US$4. Uber is available in Arequipa, Cusco, and Lima, providing a safer and more reliable option. Always check the driver’s rating and reviews before starting your ride.
In smaller jungle and highland towns, moto-taxis are more common and even cheaper, typically costing no more than S/4. These are a great sign that the place has yet to be gentrified. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the ride to avoid misunderstandings.
Taxi drives on a cobblestone street in Cusco, highlighting the ease of transportation in Peruvian cities.
5. What Are The Most Scenic Train Routes In Peru?
The most scenic train routes in Peru include the journey to Machu Picchu from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, offering views of the Vilcanota River and the transition to the Amazon Rainforest. PeruRail’s Andean Explorer provides luxury sleeper trains between Cusco and Puno (Lake Titicaca) and a Cusco-Puno-Arequipa route.
The train ride to Machu Picchu is the most famous and popular, departing from Cusco or the Sacred Valley town of Ollantaytambo. This route provides views of the Vilcanota River and the lush valley hills blending into the Amazon Rainforest near Aguas Calientes. The two rail companies, PeruRail and Inca Rail, offer various price points and levels of comfort.
For a more luxurious experience, PeruRail’s Andean Explorer offers sleeper trains between Cusco and Puno, providing picturesque views of Lake Titicaca. Another route connects Cusco, Puno, and Arequipa, allowing passengers to visit the White City.
The Ferrocarril Central Andino connects Lima to Huancayo, reaching a height of 4782m (15,689ft) above sea level. Operating since 1999, this thrilling ride runs only once or twice per month, so plan ahead.
6. Is It Convenient To Travel By Air Within Peru?
Traveling by air is efficient for covering large distances quickly but often requires connections through Lima, adding to travel time. The main airline is LatAm, operating both internationally and nationally. Small domestic airlines offer cheaper prices but have limited dates and destinations.
The greatest setback of flying in Peru is that most flights between cities other than Lima are not direct, requiring a connection in the capital city. The main airline in Peru is LatAm, which operates flights to major national cities as well as international destinations.
Small domestic airlines like VivaAir and StarPerú offer cheaper prices but have limited dates and destinations. For instance, StarPerú only offers flights to Cajamarca, Huanuco, Iquitos, Lima, Pucallpa, and Tarapoto.
People line up to board a blue train in Machu Picchu, highlighting scenic train journeys in Peru.
7. What Should You Know About Accessible Travel In Peru?
Accessible travel in Peru is limited, though Lima has made some progress with ramps and elevators in shopping centers. However, basic amenities like smooth sidewalks, braille signs, and phones for the hearing impaired are scarce. Resources like Conadis and Apumayo Expediciones offer support for disabled travelers.
While Lima has seen improvements in recent years with new infrastructure like ramps and elevators in shopping centers, these amenities are not widespread. Basic accessibility features such as smooth, wide sidewalks, braille signs, and accessible public phones are rare. In other regions and provinces, they are largely non-existent.
Useful resources for disabled travelers include Conadis, a government agency offering information and advocacy, and Apumayo Expediciones, which runs trips for travelers with mobility issues to Machu Picchu and other historic sites in the Sacred Valley.
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Our travel services also include expertly planned itineraries that highlight the best of Peru, from the bustling streets of Lima to the serene landscapes of the Andes and the Amazon. With TRAVELS.EDU.VN, you can save time and effort by letting us handle the logistics, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.
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9. What Are Some Essential Tips For Traveling Around The Highlands Of Peru?
Traveling around the highlands of Peru requires preparation for high altitudes and varying weather conditions. Buses can be significantly delayed during the rainy season (January to April), so plan accordingly and check weather forecasts. Acclimatize to the altitude gradually to avoid altitude sickness.
Buses in the highlands are often delayed during the rainy season (January to April), which can affect travel plans. It’s essential to check weather forecasts and plan for potential delays. Consider traveling during the dry season (May to September) for more reliable transportation.
Altitude sickness is a common concern in the highlands. Spending a few days at a lower altitude before ascending to higher elevations can help your body adjust. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and heavy meals, and consider taking altitude sickness medication if recommended by a doctor.
Small, old bus drives on a mountain road, representing the challenges of traveling in the Peruvian Andes.
10. How Can I Find The Most Up-To-Date Information On Travel Services In Peru?
For the most up-to-date information on travel services in Peru, including transportation schedules, prices, and availability, consult official tourism websites, reputable travel blogs, and local travel agencies. Check the websites of bus companies, airlines, and train operators for current schedules and fares.
Official tourism websites, such as the Peru tourism board, provide reliable information on transportation options, attractions, and travel advisories. These websites are regularly updated with the latest information and can be a valuable resource for planning your trip.
Reputable travel blogs and forums offer insights from recent travelers and locals, providing tips and recommendations on transportation, accommodation, and activities. Look for blogs that are known for their accuracy and unbiased reviews.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the best time to visit Peru?
The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, from May to September, offering ideal conditions for exploring Machu Picchu and the Andes.
2. How much does it cost to travel in Peru?
The cost of traveling in Peru varies, but a budget traveler can expect to spend around $30-$50 per day, while a mid-range traveler may spend $70-$150 per day.
3. Is it safe to travel in Peru?
Peru is generally safe for tourists, but it’s essential to take precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded areas.
4. What are the must-see attractions in Peru?
Must-see attractions include Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lake Titicaca, the Nazca Lines, and the Amazon Rainforest.
5. Do I need a visa to enter Peru?
Many nationalities, including US citizens, do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 180 days in Peru.
6. What is the currency in Peru?
The currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (S/).
7. What language is spoken in Peru?
The official languages of Peru are Spanish and Quechua.
8. What should I pack for a trip to Peru?
Pack layers of clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.
9. How do I avoid altitude sickness in Peru?
To avoid altitude sickness, acclimatize gradually, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and consider medication if necessary.
10. Are credit cards widely accepted in Peru?
Credit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller towns and markets.
