I’ve traveled all over the world, but there’s one region I always recommend to those seeking adventure: South America.
Every country in South America offers something unique, from the striking mountains in Patagonia to the lively beaches of Brazil. Yet for first-time visitors to the region, narrowing down which places to visit can seem daunting.
In the past decade, I’ve visited South America seven times. Combined, I’ve spent just over a year traveling and living around the continent, and I can never seem to get enough.
There’s nowhere I’ve been that I wouldn’t recommend, but for first-timers, I always suggest putting Peru at the top of your list.
After spending three months traveling around the country, I think Peru’s history, culinary scene, and range of activities make it ideal for a first trip to South America, and here’s why.
First, Peru is fairly easy to reach from the US.
Traveling to Peru may not take as long as you think. For many Americans, it’s one of the easiest countries to reach in all of South America.
There are direct flights to Lima from several major airline hubs, including Atlanta, Houston, Orlando, and New York. Most flight itineraries are between six and nine hours.
Flying from Miami to Lima will take around six hours, for instance, while flights from New York and Los Angeles take eight and eight-and-a-half hours, respectively.
A well-established tourist trail makes it easy to plan itineraries.
It’s challenging to plan a trip to a region of the world you’ve never been to before. Researching where to go, what to see, and how to get from place to place can feel overwhelming.
Luckily, Peru has a well-established trail that many tourists follow. Usually, visitors start with a brief visit to Lima before heading to the Sacred Valley. There, they can visit the historic city of Cusco and travel to Machu Picchu.
Travelers on longer trips often visit places like Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon, and Huaraz to explore the country even further.
Because so many tourists follow (more or less) the same route, it’s less cumbersome to find resources to plan your trip. Peru’s popular destinations are generally well-prepared for tourists, with plenty of lodging, transportation, and tour options.
Fascinating history is around every corner.
Peru’s history is sure to leave you speechless, whether you’re a history buff or not.
The most notable attraction within the country is Machu Picchu, a 15th-century Incan citadel located high in the Andes Mountains. Walking around the ruins transports you to another era, and remarkable views are in every direction.
Another historic destination is Cusco, the former capital of the Incan Empire. You also can’t miss a visit to Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square that’s always full of activity. From there, you can take an enjoyable walk through cobblestone streets to local markets, cultural museums, and archaeological sites.
The local culinary scene is also top-notch.
Among all the countries in South America, Peru’s cuisine is perhaps the most raved about.
The country’s drastically different landscapes, from the desert to the rainforest to the sea, yield endless varieties of meats, seafood, tropical fruits, and spices. Over 4,000 types of potatoes are grown within the country alone.
Peru’s history has also shaped its cuisine. As immigrants from countries like Japan, China, and Spain settled here, they brought their culinary traditions with them.
Some of Peru’s most beloved dishes are a result of this diversity. Ceviche (raw fish marinated in a citrus juice) is considered a national dish of the country, and you can’t visit Peru without trying Lomo Saltado (a beef stir-fry cooked in a Peruvian-Chinese fusion sauce).
Whenever I visit Peru, I never miss a chance to order a fresh juice — bonus points if it’s made with a fruit I’ve never heard of — and a plate of picarones, the country’s fluffy sweet-potato-based doughnuts.
Finally, I’ve found it’s easy to plan a trip here on any budget.
Peru feels accessible on any vacation budget, whether you’re a penny-pinching backpacker or looking to splurge.
Budget travelers can find an abundance of hostels and low-cost restaurants to avoid breaking the bank. Additionally, local transportation options, like buses and colectivos (vans), make it easy to get from place to place.
Yet those in search of luxury are in for a treat. Dreamy hotels dot the country’s main tourist sites, with five-star stays nestled within the Andes or along the coast.
If Machu Picchu is on your itinerary, you must board the Hiram Bingham for a luxurious train journey with elegant dining and drinks, live music, and exquisite service.
The ability to plan a trip on any budget is yet another reason I always recommend Peru to first-time travelers visiting South America.
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