How to Get Around Peru for American Tourists

Peru is one of South America’s most fascinating destinations — a country of mountains that touch the sky, ancient civilizations, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities filled with history and color. For American travelers, moving around Peru efficiently is key to enjoying everything this country has to offer.

Whether you’re flying from Lima to Cusco, taking a scenic bus through the Andes, or riding a train to Machu Picchu, understanding Peru’s transportation system will help you plan a smooth, comfortable, and memorable journey.

This complete guide explains how to travel around Peru by plane, bus, train, taxi, and private transport, with practical tips, safety advice, and real insights for visitors from the United States and beyond.

✈️ Domestic Flights in Peru: Fast and Reliable

Because Peru’s geography stretches from ocean to mountains to jungle, domestic flights are often the smartest option for saving time. Major airlines operate daily routes connecting the capital Lima with the country’s main tourist regions.

🛫 Main Domestic Airlines

LATAM Airlines: the country’s largest and most reliable carrier, with multiple flights daily.
Sky Airline Perú: ideal for travelers looking for low-cost tickets without sacrificing safety.
JetSMART Perú: a growing airline known for modern planes and promotional fares.
Star Perú: smaller but great for short-distance flights, especially to jungle cities.

✈️ Most Popular Routes

Route	Flight Time	Notes
Lima → Cusco	1 hr 15 min	Most popular route for visiting Machu Picchu.
Lima → Arequipa	1 hr 30 min	For the Colca Canyon and White City.
Lima → Iquitos	1 hr 40 min	Access to the Peruvian Amazon.
Cusco → Puerto Maldonado	50 min	Gateway to Tambopata National Reserve.
Lima → Trujillo / Piura	1 hr 45 min	For beaches, surfing, and colonial cities.

💡 Travel Tip: Arrive at least two hours before your flight, especially at Lima Airport. Book early (3–4 weeks in advance) for the best fares. Most low-cost tickets don’t include checked baggage, so double-check the conditions before buying.

🚌 Traveling by Bus: Affordable and Scenic

For travelers who enjoy slow travel, the bus is one of the best ways to see Peru’s diverse landscapes. The country’s long-distance buses are safe, modern, and surprisingly comfortable, with reclining seats, Wi-Fi, snacks, and onboard restrooms.

🏞️ Reliable Bus Companies

Cruz del Sur: top-rated for safety, punctuality, and luxury seats.
Oltursa: a great mix of comfort and price.
Tepsa: ideal for long-distance routes with great onboard service.
Civa: covers much of the north and south, with flexible ticket options.
Movil Tours: offers VIP double-deck buses with entertainment screens.

🚍 Recommended Routes for American Tourists

Route	Duration	Experience
Lima → Cusco	20–22 hours	Scenic journey through desert and Andes.
Cusco → Puno	6–7 hours	Beautiful altiplano views.
Arequipa → Puno	6 hours	Volcanoes and mountain villages.
Lima → Paracas / Ica / Nazca	4–7 hours	Coastline, desert, and the Nazca Lines.
Cusco → Arequipa	10 hours	High-altitude valleys and colonial towns.

💡 Pro Tip: For overnight trips, choose “180° Cama Suite” or “VIP” seats — large reclining beds with personal screens, blankets, and onboard food service.

🚆 Trains in Peru: Scenic and Cultural Journeys

Trains in Peru aren’t just a way to move — they are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The country’s main railway routes connect some of its most breathtaking destinations, and for many travelers, the train ride is as memorable as the destination itself.

🚉 Cusco to Machu Picchu

The most iconic rail journey in South America, this route takes you through valleys, rivers, and cloud forests before reaching the famous Inca citadel.

Train Companies:

PeruRail: offers Expedition (standard), Vistadome (panoramic), and Hiram Bingham (luxury).
Inca Rail: stylish options like The 360° Train and First Class Service.

Travel Time: 1.5 to 3.5 hours depending on departure point (Cusco, Poroy, or Ollantaytambo).

💡 Tip: Book your train and Machu Picchu entrance tickets at least a month in advance, especially between June and September (peak season).

🚞 Andean Explorer: Cusco – Puno – Arequipa

Operated by Belmond, this is one of the most luxurious train experiences in the world. The Andean Explorer crosses the Andes between Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Arequipa, with observation decks, gourmet meals, and private cabins.

It’s the perfect way to enjoy Peru’s landscapes in elegance and comfort — ideal for American travelers who love scenic luxury experiences.

🚖 Taxis, Apps, and Urban Transport

Within cities, taxis and ride-hailing apps are the easiest way to get around.

Safe and Popular Options:

Uber
Cabify
InDriver
DiDi

💡 Advice:

Avoid hailing taxis on the street. Use apps or ask your hotel to call one for you.
Average fares: S/ 10–25 in Lima or Cusco (≈ $3–7 USD).
Always agree on the fare before the ride if using a local cab.

For short distances, apps are convenient and inexpensive. In rural areas or small towns, taxis are available but usually cash-only.

🚙 Car Rental: Freedom to Explore

Renting a car can be an exciting way to explore at your own pace, especially along the southern coast or Sacred Valley.

Requirements:

Valid U.S. or Canadian driver’s license (valid up to 183 days).
Passport and credit card for deposit.
Minimum age: 25 years old (some agencies allow 23+).

International rental brands available: Hertz, Avis, Budget, Sixt, Localiza.

💡 Tips for Drivers:

Avoid driving at night, especially in mountainous or rural areas.
Always carry your passport and rental documents.
Watch for speed limits — radar checks are common.
In cities like Lima, traffic is heavy; using apps or private transfers is often easier.

🛥️ Amazon River and Jungle Transport

In Peru’s Amazon region, rivers serve as natural highways. Exploring by boat is a highlight for many travelers visiting Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado.

Popular Experiences:

River cruises on the Amazon River from Iquitos.
Motorized canoe rides through the Tambopata National Reserve.
Wildlife observation tours — caimans, parrots, macaws, and pink dolphins.

💡 Travel Tip: Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and quick-dry clothing. Many eco-lodges include transfers by boat from airports to jungle accommodations.

🏞️ Adventure Travel and Scenic Routes

Peru is a paradise for adventure lovers. Its diverse landscapes make it possible to experience the coast, highlands, and jungle all in one trip.

Top Adventure Experiences for Americans:

Hiking: Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Ausangate 7 Lakes.
Cycling: Downhill rides in the Sacred Valley.
Sandboarding: Huacachina Oasis near Ica.
Rafting: Urubamba and Apurímac Rivers.
Zipline and canopy: Cusco, Valle Sagrado, and Tambopata Jungle.

💡 Tip: Choose certified tour agencies with bilingual guides. Chullos Travel Peru works with experienced operators that follow safety and environmental standards.

🧭 Practical Tips for American Tourists

Currency: Peru’s official currency is the sol (PEN). Exchange dollars only in banks or authorized money changers.
Cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, but keep cash for markets or taxis.
Altitude: In Cusco or Puno, take 1–2 days to acclimate before strenuous activities.
Connectivity: Download offline maps and translation apps before traveling.
Security: Use only registered transportation and keep valuables close.
Insurance: Always travel with medical and cancellation insurance.
Planning: Reserve flights, trains, and popular tours like Machu Picchu well in advance.

🌎 Final Thoughts

Getting around Peru is part of the adventure itself. Each journey — whether by air, land, or river — reveals a different face of this extraordinary country.
American travelers will find that Peru offers both comfort and authenticity: modern transport systems coexisting with traditional ways of life.

From the modern skyline of Lima to the cobblestone streets of Cusco, from the Andes’ snowy peaks to the endless green of the Amazon, every mile traveled brings you closer to the heart of South America.

Come discover Peru — not just as a destination, but as an experience that connects culture, nature, and adventure in one unforgettable journey.

Gimena Rojas

Doing the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life, and a big part of that was thanks to the outstanding service and care provided by Marvelous Peru. From the very first contact, their team was professional, friendly, and informative. They answered all of our questions quickly and gave us clear, detailed information about the itinerary, what to pack, and what to expect on the trail. The logistics were flawless — every transfer was on time, the campsites were well set up, and the support team was incredibly kind and helpful throughout the journey. A special mention goes to our guide, who was not only knowledgeable about Inca history, the local flora and fauna, and the geography of the Andes, but also passionate and deeply connected to the region's culture. His insights truly enriched our experience. The trek itself was absolutely breathtaking. Each day brought new landscapes: from the snow-capped peaks of the mighty Salkantay Mountain to lush cloud forests, turquoise glacial lakes, and ancient Inca trails. The route was well-paced, with plenty of breaks, and we always felt safe and supported. It’s a physically challenging trek, but Marvelous Peru made sure everyone was comfortable and well taken care of. One of the highlights was definitely the food. Considering we were in remote mountain areas, the meals exceeded all expectations. Every dish was fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared. There were generous portions, local flavors, and even vegetarian options — a huge plus for some of us in the group. Our camp chef deserves a medal! Reaching Machu Picchu on the final day felt incredibly rewarding. After five days of hiking through such diverse and awe-inspiring terrain, standing before one of the world's wonders felt even more magical. It was the perfect end to a journey that tested us physically and rewarded us spiritually. I wholeheartedly recommend Marvelous Peru to anyone considering the Salkantay Trek. Their passion, organization, and genuine care for their travelers truly set them apart. If you want to discover the beauty of the Andes and Machu Picchu in a way that’s immersive, authentic, and unforgettable, go with Marvelous Peru. You won’t regret it.

Sergio Prado

The guide had so much knowledge and heart-he brought the trail to life

Marilyn Astudillo

I didn’t expect to enjoy the food on a mountain trek so much. Every meal was amazing.

yosgali rebeca boza carpio

Exelente

Noce Tampoco ce

Everything was so well organized, and the views were absolutely unforgettable.

Alexander Quispe R.

Reserve el tour de Salkantay de 5D/4N fui con el el mejor Guía Pablo tube una experiencia Maravillosa y en nuestra visita a Machupicchu tuvimos un clima espectacular recomiendo la compañía 🥳😃😃😃buena organización 🤗

nilton abelardo ccopa lopez

Una excelente experiencia recomendamos hacer los viajes con la compañía, servicio de calidad

Ivn_ Nghtmr

The Salkantay Trek with Marvelous couldn't have been better thanks to our incredible guide, Daniel. Honestly, I've never had such a great guide. Daniel is so warm, cheerful, and energetic. He wasn't just a guide, but part of our trekking family—many guides could learn something from him! Aside from that, our group was very personable, young, and motivated. The private cooks traveling with us prepared amazing food, and there was always enough of it. I've never eaten so well on a trek. Only in the last few days, when the cooks left and provided us with food at the restaurant, did the quality of the food really suffer compared to before. The accommodations were good, the sleeping bags provided were sufficient, and Daniel, our guide, tailored the route to our group's needs so everyone was satisfied.