How To Spend an Unforgettable Summer in Peru This Year

There is something genuinely enchanting about Peru.

It’s cultural diversity, enormous natural resources, breathtaking landscape, people, cuisine and heritage showcase the best of Latin America.

For me, it is one of the must-visit places of the world. If not already, Peru should be part of your travel bucket list.

Peru is the third largest nation in South America. It’s landscape, culture and weather are one of the most diverse in the world.

If you understand the nation, you can spend an unforgettable summer in Peru. A time, that you will cherish for the rest of your life.

That is why, today, I am going to explore various facets of Peru. This in turn will help you create the best travel itinerary possible for a trip of a lifetime.

The main aspects I am going to focus on are:

1) Understanding Peru’s weather patterns, seasons, local conditions to figure out the best time to visit the country.

2) The top experiences in Peru that will take your breath away.

3) Exploring where to stay to make your trip that much more memorable.

4) Peru’s cuisine and the must-try restaurants.

5) Important tips and considerations before you visit Peru.

Note: You can book the most surreal experiences and activities in Peru from Viator – A TripAdvisor company.

Understanding Peru’s Climate Conditions, Weather and Seasons

When people talk about diversity in Peru, they are not just talking about its culture.

Weather conditions are equally diverse and quite different than what you can expect in other parts of the world.

To begin with, you need to keep in mind two things.

First, seasons in Peru are classified as wet season and dry season.

Second, Peru is divided into three distinct geographical locations. They are La Costa (coastal), La Sierra (Andes) and La Selva (Amazon).

Depending upon the geographical location you are at, you will experience different weather patterns.

La Costa

La Costa refers to the coastal regions of Peru. It faces the Pacific Ocean on western Peru.

This is where Peru’s capital Lima is located and you get subtropical desert climate.

Here, it ranges from pleasant weather conditions with nice sunny days to cloudy or foggy skies during winter. You get very little rainfall in this region and it mostly stays dry.

With hardly any rain, days can see clear skies or a scenic cloud cover. Just perfect to enjoy the Pacific coast almost throughout the year.

La Sierra

The La Sierra (Andes mountains) region is where you will find most of Peru’s famous archaeological sites.

This part of Peru can be considered as the central region of the nation.

Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world is located in this Andean region.

Due to the high altitude at several locations of this region, you can expect cold weather conditions. You also get heavy rainfall during the wet season over here.

La Selva

The La Selva region is home to Peru’s Amazon Rainforest. As you can imagine with the Amazon jungle and its intense eco-diversity, this region can have extreme weather conditions.

Here, you will get hot, humid and dry weather that is accompanied by regular rainfall.

The Peruvian Amazon basin or Amazon region has equatorial to tropical climate conditions.

La Selva occupies the eastern part of Peru.

Quick glance at Peru’s climate metrics

Now that you have some understanding of Peru’s distinct regions, here’s a quick glance at the country’s key climate metrics.

Summer season: December to February is considered as the summer months in Peru.

Warmest month: February

Winter season: June to August is considered as the winter or coldest months in Peru.

Coldest month: August

Rainy season: November to March is considered as the wet season with regular to heavy rainfall.

Wet season: November to March

Wettest month: January and February

Dry season: May to August

Driest month: June

Ideal time of year to visit Peru

The best time to visit Peru depends on a number of factors and the regions you wish to visit.

However, as an overall average, these are the key metrics on the best time to visit Peru.

High season: May to September is considered as the peak season for tourists.

Low season: January to April is considered as the low season due to frequent rainfall.

Best month: June is considered the best month to visit Peru as you can enjoy both the coastal region and Peruvian Andes.

The dry season accompanied with the winter months is considered as the best time of year to visit Peru.

Shoulder season: October to November is considered as the shoulder months in Peru.

Hiking season: May to September, which is considered the best season in Peru due to less rain and lower temperatures.

Final points on weather and when to visit Peru

1) Remember, weather and seasons in the southern hemisphere work different from rest of the world.

Therefore, when you want to spend summer in Peru, ask yourself does it mean your summer or the Peruvian summer?

2) The peak seasons can be quite expensive and crowded but you can explore all parts of Peru.

The low season can see regular rainfall but at the same time is cheaper with lesser crowds.

Hence the best time to visit Peru is not necessarily the peak season. You could visit during November and December to avoid crowds but still visit most of the best places in Peru.

3) La Costa or the Peruvian coast does not get much rain. Hence you can enjoy here throughout the year.

However, this part of Peru does see high temperatures and high humidity during summer.

Another thing to remember, during winter there will be heavy cloud cover instead of clear skies.

The La Sierra region with the gorgeous mountains has a different story.

You will get comparatively low temperatures but moving around can be affected in summer due to rain.

4) Climate of Peru is extremely diverse. It is extremely difficult to talk about the average temperature as it can range drastically from region to region.

Just know that Peru’s coast sees average daytime temperatures of about 25 °C to 35 °C during summer. It gets cooler as you move towards the mountains.

While the average temperature remains pleasant during winter in the coastal areas, it drops drastically in the La Sierra region.

12 Must-have Experiences for an Unforgettable Summer in Peru

It does not matter if you are visiting when it is summer in Peru or summer where you live.

You can have an unforgettable experience any time of the year.

To truly experience Peru, you need to immerse yourself in its culture, cuisine, heritage, natural landscape and archaeology.

You need to explore the three main regions of Peru plus cities such as Lima, Cusco, Puno and Aguas Calientes.

Keeping this in mind, I have given below the top 12 must-have experiences in Peru.

Remember, in reality there are hundreds of surreal experiences in Peru. I am giving the best, must-do ones to make the most of your summer in Peru.

1) Experience history, culture and the coast in Lima

Lima, the capital of Peru is the entry point for most tourists to the country.

It is home to Peru’s largest airport, Jorge Chávez International Airport.

Many tourists typically quickly move on to other tourist locations especially towards the Andes Mountains.

This is mainly because all of Peru’s infamous archaeological and natural wonders are located in that region including Machu Picchu.

However, to get a real feel of Peru, its history, culture and brilliant coastline, you need to spend time in Lima.

Your initiation to Peru is through Lima. There are a number of activities you can do to experience this historic capital city.

You can take a day tour of Lima that includes visiting historical and heritage sites, ancient monuments and famous neighborhoods. Did you know Lima has its own ancient pyramid known as Huaca Pucllana built in 200 AD?

Take a Peruvian food tour through some of the best local hangouts in the country.

Opt for brilliant day trips such as visiting the mysterious desert lines known as the Nazca lines.

View and book online Lima day tour.

View and book online all experiences in Lima.

2) Visit Huacachina Desert Oasis

You may have heard of an oasis in the desert, but have you ever actually been to a natural oasis?

In Peru, you can do just that by visiting the gorgeous Huacachina.

Tourists can easily visit Huacachina from Lima as part of a full day trip. The drive via a car or luxury bus is thrilling as well as you go through the fantastic desert coast.

Huacachina, is a scenic village oasis that has naturally formed in the middle of the desert.

The central attraction of an incredible lagoon lined with palm trees is a breathtaking sight.

There are tours that not only take you to Huacachina, but also to surrounding locations such as Paracas.

The tours include dune buggy rides, boating at Ballestas Islands, wildlife viewing in their natural habitat plus more.

Huacachina Desert Oasis and the coastal areas nearby is worth visiting for a unique experience in Peru.

View and book online day trips to Huacachina Desert Oasis.

3) Puno on Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca, located in Southern Peru, is one of the highest lakes in the world.

It is also amidst the largest lakes in South America with incredibly calm and serene waters.

Puno, is a city on the banks of Lake Titicaca, often referred to as the folklore capital of Peru.

The combination of the mesmerizing Lake Titicaca along with its extraordinary cultural importance is what makes Puno a must-visit.

The weather near Lake Titicaca ranges from pleasant to quite cold depending upon the season.

You must spend a couple of days at Puno exploring both the lake and the archaeological ruins around town.

Lake Titicaca is also said to be the birthplace of the Incas. Discovering the great culture and heritage of the Incas around the lake is a surreal experience.

Also, couples and loved ones should know Lake Titicaca is fondly referred to as the honeymoon lake.

You don’t go to Puno and Lake Titicaca for adventure. Instead, you go there for the tranquillity, the rich history and experiencing Inca civilization.

Do note, the water levels of Lake Titicaca can go down from time to time. However, it still remains one of the most beautiful places in South America throughout the year.

View and book online all experiences in Puno with Lake Titicaca.

4) Explore archaeological remains of Cusco

Cusco is a spectacular city in the La Sierra region of Peru, home to the Andes Mountain range.

It is the most visited city by tourists in Peru. This is mainly due to its proximity to Machu Picchu.

However, Cusco on its own is one of the best places to visit in Peru.

It used to be at one point the capital of the Inca Empire. The entire city and its surroundings are jam-packed with the best of Incan and Spanish architecture.

The archaeological ruins in and around Cusco are some of the most crucial historical landmarks of all time in Peru.

Exploring these archaeological remains, reminiscing the past glory of the Inca Empire is a must-do activity.

Another encounter with history in Cusco is going around the main town square, Plaza de Armas. You get a taste of the Spanish colonial history and architecture of Peru.

Before you visit Machu Picchu, you must thoroughly explore Cusco to truly appreciate the local culture and its heritage.

Many locals and tourists are especially attracted to Cusco during the Easter holy week and New Year.

Cusco is especially a great place to be during the Easter holy week with the unique style of celebrations.

It is something that you need to experience yourself to fully comprehend its significance to the city.

View and book online all experiences in Cusco.

5) Thermal Baths and Hiking at Aguas Calientes

While Cusco is the most famous city near Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes is the closest to the famous Inca ruins.

It is hardly 30 minutes by bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes.

What is even better, is that the hike to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes is only 1 hour 30 minutes.

Staying in Aguas Calientes gives you several ways to explore Machu Picchu and its surrounding areas.

Mind you, Aguas Calientes is not just about being the entryway to Machu Picchu.

Aguas Calientes, which is located in the scenic Urubamba River Valley, is famous for its thermal baths.

A nice afternoon in one of these thermal baths is wonderfully rejuvenating.

You can also go exploring the famed flora and fauna in Aguas Calientes and surrounding mountain areas.

View and book online all experiences in Aguas Calientes.

6) Follow the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Let’s face it, most people travel to Peru for Machu Picchu.

It is the absolute pièce de resistance of Peruvian archaeological sites.

Machu Picchu is not just a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also one of the seven wonders of the world.

Therefore, if you are planning a visit to Peru, Machu Picchu is most probably on top of your must-do list.

Considering how important Machu Picchu is to experience Peru and the Inca Civilization, you must do something memorable.

Sure, if you are pressed for time, you could simply do the standard day trip like most.

However, if you want a truly unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience, then I suggest hiking the famous Inca trail to Machu Picchu.

This is a 4-day hike to Machu Picchu that starts at Cusco. It goes through some of the most incredible mountain villages of the Sacred Valley.

Do note that the total distance is about 26 miles that goes through high elevation. So, it is not for everyone.

If you are fit enough, please do try the classic Inca Trail hiking. This is by far the best way to understand, appreciate and experience Inca civilization while being surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

You will encounter endless history and heritage on your way to Machu Picchu located within the Sacred Valley.

Part of the hike does involve Vistadome trains and bus rides while coming back towards Aguas Calientes.

The thrill of camping along the way and witnessing the majestic early mornings on the Andes mountains is just awe-inspiring.

Do carry warm clothes for the trip as you will experience cold nights and chilly mornings.

Hiking or day trips, regardless of how you choose to experience Machu Picchu, you are assured of a great time.

View and book online the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

7) Trek to Rainbow Mountain

I remember the first time I saw pictures of Rainbow Mountain on the internet.

The colors were simply mesmerizing. It felt like a landscape from another planet.

Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca as it is locally known, can be considered a natural wonder of the world.

The variety of colors that you see on top of Rainbow Mountain is thanks to mineral deposits.

These deposits that have been there since millions of years were discovered after the snow melted thanks to global warming.

Today, it is one of the most awe-inspiring natural landscapes of South America.

To get to Rainbow Mountain, you need to first take a 2-hour private transfer ride from Cusco. After that, it is about a 2-to-3-hour trek to the summit of the mountain.

Be warned though that the trek is not an easy one. It is moderate to difficult even for seasoned trekkers.

Nevertheless, the journey is completely worth the effort. The panoramic views from top are simply breathtaking.

The colors of the mountain on top are nothing like you have ever experienced before.

Local guides take you all the way to the top and also arrange for the private transfer from Cusco.

You will have a good time during the day trip with a hearty breakfast and lunch provided by tour operators.

There is also a possibility of renting horses at a small village before the trek to ease things considerably.

View and book online day trip to Rainbow Mountain.

8) Walk with Llamas on the Andean Mountain Ecosystem

There are times when an animal or wildlife gets completely associated with the culture or identity of a country.

Komodo dragons in Indonesia or tigers in India are examples of this.

Similarly, llamas are part of Peruvian culture and identity. Every time you think of a llama, you think of Peru.

Therefore, it is a must that you have a close encounter with these beautiful, gentle creatures.

What better way to interact with llamas than walking with them on the Andean Mountain ecosystem.

You have two choices here. About an hour from Cusco, you have the Llama Pack Project. It is an initiative meant for the conservation of the incredible Andean ecosystem.

Here, local guild members can take you for a gentle trek of an hour or so along with the llamas.

You walk along with the llamas through the gorgeous mountainside, learning more about the place and the animals.

There are snacks and lunch included in the half day tour.

This is a nice activity but you need to find your own way to the Llama Pack Project.

The other option is to visit a private llama and hiking center just about 20 minutes from Cusco. Here, transportation is included in your package.

You get to walk with the llamas in this tour as well. The only difference being this is a shorter tour and you do not learn about conservation efforts.

View details and book online for Llama Pack Project.

View details and book online for Hiking with llamas.

9) Witness Amazonian Rainforest from Iquitos

I am going to keep this short and simple. Imagine visiting the actual Amazon with all of its extraordinary biodiversity.

You just can’t come all the way to Peru and not visit the Amazon rainforest.

The city of Iquitos is the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon region.

Almost 60 percent of the Amazon rainforest is located in Northern Peru. This region, also known as La Selva is one of a kind. It is the perfect place for nature enthusiasts.

Think of all the movies you have watched or books you have read describing adventures in the Amazon.

Reality is even better. There are several surreal activities or excursions you can indulge in from Iquitos within Amazon.

You can go on day hikes, boat rides, have a jungle adventure and so much more.

Needless to say, the raw natural beauty, the wildlife, eco-diversity, flora and fauna is at its absolute best over here.

Do keep in mind the weather over here can be quite humid and can rain throughout the year. So come prepared accordingly.

View and book online all experiences in Iquitos and Amazon rainforest.

10) Check out Colca Canyon from Arequipa

Colca Canyon, located in southern Peru, is the second deepest canyon in the world.

It is almost double the depth of Grand Canyon and is the deepest canyon in South America.

Colca Canyon has a depth of slightly more than 4000 meters at its deepest point.

Standing on one of the view points and checking out the endless bottom is quite an experience.

Most excursions to Colca Canyon take place from the city of Arequipa.

There are lots to do at Arequipa itself. Similar to rest of the nation, you have outstanding colonial architecture and breathtaking natural landscape all around.

Its main square is also a major attraction with the centuries old Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa.

View and book online day tour to Colca Canyon.

11) Take a Peruvian Food Tour

Peruvian cuisine is as delightful as the country itself.

It is an important part of the overall culture of Peru. Therefore, for an immersive experience of Peru, you must indulge in its culinary arts as well.

While you can visit great restaurants during your stay, it can get overwhelming to understand what to taste and where.

The best way to overcome this is to take a Peruvian food tour.

Some of the best food tours can be found in Lima. You spend a delightful evening going through various locally recommended restaurants tasting the best of Peruvian cuisine.

The best part is that most tours include culinary workshops where you get to learn in depth about Peruvian food.

You can choose between tours that provide a casual experience or a gourmet food and drink experience.

Both are great for having the perfect time with the best food and drinks at iconic neighborhoods of Lima.

View details and book online for Peruvian Food Tour.

View details and book online for Gourmet Food Tour.

12) Behold Cordillera Blanca from Huaraz

Cordillera Blanca means white range in the local language.

The incredible mountain range that is part of the larger Andes range is extremely important for the country of Peru.

The 700 plus glaciers at Cordillera Blanca are a major source of water for the entire nation.

The complete Cordillera Blanca range extends for about 200 kms at a height of 6000 meters at its peak.

The best way to access Cordillera Blanca is from the city of Huaraz. It is about 250 miles or 400 kms from Lima.

There are several sites at Cordillera Blanca where tourists go for camping, trekking, hiking and kayaking.

Do note while summers can have mild climate, it gets really cold at other times near the glaciers.

While staying at Huaraz, you can take a day trip to the Huascarán National Park, protector of Cordillera Blanca.

It is an outstanding national park with the most mesmerizing scenic views all around. It is part of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage list.

Apart from Cordillera Blanca, you can also visit pre-Incan ruins at Huaraz or take several scenic day treks nearby.

View and book online all experience in Huaraz with Cordillera Blanca.

12 Best Hotels and Resorts for the Most Memorable Summer in Peru

Where you choose to stay makes a massive difference to your overall experience of Peru.

I personally feel you should opt for hotels or resorts that are steeped in either history or culture of Peru.

That is what makes your stay that much more memorable.

Therefore, I am giving below 12 hotels in Peru that are either historic, have cultural characteristics or have impeccable service.

Do note that I have provided 3 options in each of the cities of Lima, Puno, Cusco and Aguas Calientes.

You can choose as per your budget and personal preferences.

1) Casa Republica Barranco, Lima

Casa Republica Barranco is located in the vibrant bohemian district of Barranco in Lima.

The hotel is a 1920’s mansion converted into a boutique hotel.

The building, its interiors and its features have a historic feel of the Republican era of Peru.

Apart from being loved for its service, attention to detail and excellent guest rooms, patrons appreciate the quieter location.

You are near several attractions including top restaurants and markets, yet far enough for peace and privacy.

2) Iberostar Selection Miraflores, Lima

Iberostar Selection Miraflores is the highest ranked hotel in pretty much all top hotel lists of Lima.

This is a brilliant, modern hotel located at the heart of Lima’s most sought-after tourist neighborhood, Miraflores.

If you like staying where the thick of the action is, Miraflores and Iberostar Selection is for you.

Some of the absolute best attractions, restaurants and bars of Lima are at a walking distance.

Apart from the brilliant location, Iberostar Selection Miraflores is known for its impeccable service.

You can also enjoy the beautiful Peruvian coast from a cliff near the hotel. With sunny weather and blue skies, the view from the rooftop bar is absolutely stunning as well.

3) Atemporal, Lima

If you have the budget, then Atemporal is a really good choice for a unique experience in Peru.

It is not a standard hotel. In fact, it is a grand Peruvian mansion with only 6 guest rooms.

As you can imagine with only a handful of rooms, there is special focus on each guest.

The hotel has the perfect mix of culture, elegance and opulence.

Atemporal is located in a quite corner of Miraflores in Lima.

You should choose Atemporal if you want to experience a historic Peruvian mansion where tradition meets contemporary.

4) Mirador del Titikaka, Puno

Mirador del Titikaka is a charming, family-run hotel in Puno, located on top of a hill.

You get absolutely gorgeous panoramic views of Lake Titicaca, the town of Puno and surrounding hills from the property.

Puno is a small town where you basically go to relax and enjoy the lake with its breathtaking natural scenery.

Guests can enjoy exactly that while staying at Mirador del Titikaka.

Being on top of a hill, it is away from all the crowd, while providing the best views possible.

Since the hotel is family-run, expect friendly and homely service rather than what you would find in a luxury hotel.

Another reason to stay at Mirador del Titikaka are the llamas and alpacas all around the hotel.

Stay at Mirador del Titikaka for the views, the charm, the romance and wildlife.

5) GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca, Puno

GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca is the highest rated and most popular hotel in Puno.

It has a modern, contemporary décor with beautiful views of Lake Titicaca.

If you prefer luxury over a more traditional hotel, you should opt for GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca.

You will get all the modern amenities that you expect from a highly-reputed hotel anywhere in the world.

Overall, GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca has great service, wonderful restaurants, a good spa and perfect location.

6) Titicaca Lodge Peru, Puno

If you want to stay at a unique location in Puno, opt for Titicaca Lodge Peru.

It is situated on the floating island of the Uros. The lodge is simply brilliant with views that make you feel you are on the water itself.

Titicaca Lodge Peru is a small family-run lodge with a big heart.

You can learn so much about the history of the island from the owners and also get special activities arranged.

I personally feel couples will enjoy the lodge a lot thanks to the romantic environment.

There is complete peace, calm and fantastic scenery at the lodge. Watching the sunset or going kayaking on the lake is just surreal.

It does get extremely cold here so pack your clothes accordingly.

7) Palacio del Inka, Cusco

Palacio del Inka is one of the finest hotels in not just Cusco but entire Peru.

It is a luxury hotel situated inside a grand mansion of 500 years old.

The result is one of the perfect blends of tradition, history and modernism you will ever find.

To me, the hotel with its courtyard, stone archways and artistic décor looks straight out of a fantasy movie.

If you can afford it, this is where you should stay.

Expect the finest in Peruvian hospitality and tastefully designed guest rooms at Palacio del Inka.

Another thing, its in-house restaurant, Inti Raymi is one of the most beloved restaurants in all of Cusco.

8) Antigua Casona San Blas, Cusco

Antigua Casona San Blas is the highest rated hotel in Cusco at the moment.

It has the perfect location which is near the main city center yet away from all the noise.

There are several attractions, landmarks, restaurants etc all at a short walking distance from the hotel.

The hotel itself is another example of perfectly blending traditional charm with modern luxury.

The hotel and its guest rooms are comfortable, charming and have all modern amenities.

Guests have especially appreciated the service and attention to detail at Antigua Casona San Blas.

9) Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel, Cusco

What caught my eye about Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel is that it is a 5-star hotel built inside a museum.

What a perfect way to ensure you get the best of both worlds, from rich history to complete luxury.

The best hotels of Cusco are the ones that have perfected the art of blending culture with modernism.

Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel does this in a grand way.

The 16th century mansion with a museum is replete with historical art, sculptures and furniture throughout the property.

You just can’t go wrong with Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel. You have a brilliant location, exceptional service, historic mansion, museum steeped in history, modern, luxurious amenities plus more.

10) Tierra Viva Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes

Tierra Viva Machu Picchu is a nice hotel that is quite contemporary yet has the Peruvian charm.

The best part of the hotel is its quiet location near to the historic site of Machu Picchu.

In fact, the Inca Citadel is a 60-minute hike from here. You could also opt to take the bus from near the hotel.

You also get wonderful views of the Urubamba River from the guest rooms.

Overall, you can expect friendly service, well-appointed comfortable guest rooms, peaceful location plus more at Tierra Viva Machu Picchu.

11) Jaya Suite Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes

Jaya Suite Machu Picchu is the highest rated hotel in Aguas Calientes.

It has a nice location, good views of the natural surroundings including the river and great service.

Most hotels in Aguas Calientes are small but Jaya Suite Machu Picchu comes with large guest rooms and great amenities.

It is about 5 minutes or so walk to the bus stop for Machu Picchu.

12) SUMAQ Machu Picchu Hotel, Aguas Calientes

SUMAQ Machu Picchu Hotel is located near the Vilcanota River in Aguas Calientes.

The train station to Machu Picchu is about 10 minutes away. What is interesting is that the hotel provides doorstop bus service to Machu Picchu and back.

The service level and modern amenities on offer is what makes SUMAQ Machu Picchu Hotel so popular with tourists.

Overall, the hotel has modern, comfortable rooms, tasteful local décor, excellent amenities and of course, great service.

12 Best and Must-Try Restaurants in Peru

I have spoken about the things to do and where to stay. Now, it is time to talk about where to eat.

Without indulging in Peruvian cuisine, you have not truly experienced Peru.

Peruvian cuisine is famous for its use of grains, legumes, corn, potatoes, meats and raw fish.

The nation’s national dish Ceviche, is a culinary delight with a burst of fresh flavors with fresh raw fish.

If you have chosen the right hotel, you will have a good in-house restaurant to try. However, for the best experience, do not be afraid to walk around and discover hidden gems.

Also, for a genuinely immersive experience, try the Peruvian food tour that I spoke about earlier.

While there are umpteen great places in Peru, I have provided a list of 12 best and must-try restaurants.

Use these as a starting point and as already mentioned, do not hesitate to explore further for a wonderful time.

Do note that the restaurants given below are in no particular order and they all specialize in Peruvian cuisine. As always, I have given options in Lima, Cusco, Aguas Calientes and Puno.

1) Amankaya – Peruvian Food, Lima

Amankaya is one of the most popular restaurants in Lima visited by both locals and tourists.

This is a great place to taste authentic Peruvian cuisine and some delightful fusion dishes.

It is located in the buzzing Miraflores neighborhood in Lima.

Address: Avenida 28 de Julio 562 Miraflores, Lima 15046

Timings:

12 pm to 11 pm on all days except Mondays.

12 pm to 5 pm on Mondays.

2) El Merlín de Cabo Blanco – Miraflores, Lima

El Merlín de Cabo Blanco located at Miraflores in Lima is where you should go for Peruvian seafood dishes.

The menu consists of delicacies from both Peru and Latin America.

This is a wonderful restaurant with great service and brilliant food.

Address: Av. Mariscal La Mar 1171, Miraflores, Lima 15074

Timings:

12 pm to 4.30 pm on Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

11 am to 4.30 pm on Wednesdays.

Mondays closed.

3) Matria Restaurante, Lima

Most patrons describe Matria Restaurante in Lima as charming with delightful Peruvian food.

They do have Peruvian, Latin, fusion and some international dishes on their menu.

They are located in the Miraflores neighborhood of Lima.

Address: Av. Gral. Mendiburu 823, Miraflores, Lima 15074

Timings:

12 pm to 4 pm and 6.30 pm to 10.30 pm from Tuesday to Saturday.

12.30 pm to 5 pm on Sundays.

Mondays closed.

4) Barra Maretazo, Lima

Barra Maretazo is another gem located at Miraflores in Lima.

It is a great place for authentic Peruvian and Latin cuisine. Their seafood dishes are particularly loved by guests.

Interestingly, there are decent options for vegetarians as well on the menu which is unusual for Peru.

Address: Calle Alcanfores 373, Miraflores, Lima 15074

Timings: 12 pm to 10 pm open on all days.

5) Astrid & Gaston, Lima

Astrid & Gaston is an internationally acclaimed restaurant with a rich history, located near Miraflores in Lima.

You should visit Astrid & Gaston for its ambience, traditions, specially curated Peruvian menu and delectable food.

This is a restaurant that comes with a huge reputation and it lives up to it every day.

Address: Av. Paz Soldán 290, San Isidro, Lima 15073

Timings:

1 pm to 3.30 pm and 7 pm to 11 pm from Tuesday to Saturday.

12 pm to 4 pm on Sundays.

Mondays closed.

6) Kusykay Peruvian Craft Food, Cusco

Kusykay Peruvian Craft Food is the number one ranked restaurant in Cusco at the moment.

As the name suggests, the menu consists of Peruvian craft food that are simply irresistible.

The restaurant has a great location near the famous Plaza de Armas.

Do visit Kusykay Peruvian Craft Food for a very well thought out Peruvian menu and outstanding service.

Address: Calle Triunfo 338 A, Cusco 51084

Timings: 12 pm to 10 pm open on all days.

7) Rucula Cusco

Rucula Cusco is one of the best places to try authentic Peruvian cuisine in the city.

The restaurant is famous for its healthy, organic menu with fresh produce.

You can sit comfortably in a quiet spot indulging in the best of what Peru has to offer.

Definitely a highly recommended restaurant when in Cusco.

Address: 2nd floor Corner Triunfo, 393 Palace Steps Up, Cusco 08002

Timings: 11 am to 10 pm open on all days.

8) Yunkas Peruvian Organic Food, Cusco

Yunkas Peruvian Organic Food is located near the Cusco main square. Yet, it is far enough to peacefully gorge on your food in a calm locality.

You must try Yunkas for its brilliant organic menu and fresh Peruvian plus fusion cuisine.

There are options for vegans as well in the menu that are as good as their meat counterparts.

Address: Calle Huaynapata 410, Behind the San Borja School, Cusco 08002

Timings: 12.30 pm to 9 pm open on all days.

9) Chullos Craft Beer & Home Made Food, Aguas Calientes

Many consider Chullos Craft Beer & Home Made Food as one of the best places to dine in Aguas Calientes.

You actually get a charming and dreamy ambience with brilliant organic and healthy Peruvian cuisine.

After a trek to Machu Picchu, this is a great place to unwind with superb food and local craft beer.

Address: Avenida Imperio de los Inca 612, Aguas Calientes 08681

Timings: 10 am to 10 pm open on all days.

10) Restaurante Tupana Wasi, Aguas Calientes

Restaurante Tupana Wasi in Aguas Calientes is famous for its grilled dishes made with authentic local produce.

If you are craving for the best of Peruvian cuisine with traditional Inca produce, this is the place to visit.

Since it opens its doors from 7 am daily, you can try the restaurant both pre and post your Machu Picchu trek.

Address: Puente Sinchi Roca, Aguas Calientes 08000

Timings: 7 am to 9.30 pm open on all days.

11) Alma Bar Restaurante, Puno

Alma Bar Restaurante is located inside Hotel Andina in Puno.

It is ranked as the number one restaurant in Puno by tourists.

I like that you can try Peruvian cuisine with a great view of Lake Titicaca at the restaurant.

Address: Avenida Sesquincentenario 1970, Puno 21001

Timings: 5 am to 10 pm open on all days.

12) Valeria Restaurant, Puno

Valeria Restaurant is one of the most beloved restaurants in Puno by locals.

It is a small but well laid out place serving fresh, authentic Peruvian cuisine.

Guests love the fresh produce along with friendly service at the restaurant.

Address: Jr. Lima 369, Puno 21001

Timings: 7 am to 10 pm open on all days.

Final thoughts on spending an epic summer in Peru

Surreal experiences, outstanding accommodations and a delectable cuisine, it all goes together for spending a dream summer in Peru.

My suggestion would be to spend at least 14 days in Peru to get the best out of the country.

Do remember that if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, the seasons are inverted in Peru.

Therefore, you have a choice to make. Do you visit when its summer where you live, or when its summer in Peru?

Summer in Peru will see relatively fewer crowds but more rainfall in the Andes and Amazon regions.

Winter in Peru witnesses peak times for tourism. Temperatures range from mild near the coast to almost freezing in the mountains.

I personally believe, as long as you avoid the wettest months of January and February, you will be fine.

Furthermore, if possible, do visit Cusco during the Easter celebrations. Try to reach a day or two before Good Friday and stay a whole week. It is an experience that is just out of this world.