Peru is a country located in western South America, bordered by Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, and the Pacific Ocean. Its official language is Spanish and its currency is the Sol. Lima is the capital city and largest metropolis in Peru.
Peru has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from indigenous civilizations such as the Incas and pre-Columbian cultures, as well as Spanish colonial heritage. The country is also known for its diverse geography, which includes the Andes mountains, the Amazon rainforest, and the coast of the Pacific Ocean.
The economy of Peru is characterized by its minerals, particularly gold, silver, and copper, as well as its fishing, tourism, and agricultural industries. Despite economic growth in recent years, the country still faces challenges such as income inequality, poverty, and corruption.
Peru is also home to numerous natural and cultural attractions, including Machu Picchu, the Nazca Lines, Lake Titicaca, and the Amazon rainforest. These attractions attract millions of tourists every year, contributing to the country’s economy.
In terms of governance, Peru is a democratic republic with a president as its head of state and a multi-party system. The country has a long history of political instability and violence, but has been relatively stable in recent years.
In conclusion, Peru is a country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse geography, as well as a growing economy. Despite challenges, it remains a popular tourist destination and has made progress in terms of governance and stability.
Peru Itinerary 7 Days on Budget:
Day 1: Lima
- Arrive in Lima and check into budget-friendly accommodation
- Visit the Central Market for a taste of local cuisine
- Explore the historic center of Lima, including the Plaza Mayor, Cathedral, and Palace of Government
- Visit the Larco Museum to learn about the pre-Columbian culture of Peru
Day 2: Lima to Cusco
- Take a morning flight from Lima to Cusco
- Acclimate to the high altitude and take a leisurely stroll through the city
- Visit the Santo Domingo Convent and the Qorikancha Temple
- Explore the local markets and try traditional Andean dishes
Day 3: Cusco and Sacred Valley
- Take a tour of the Sacred Valley, including visits to the Pisac Ruins, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero
- Explore the local markets and try traditional Andean dishes
- Visit the Inca terraces and soak up the stunning views
Day 4: Machu Picchu
- Take an early morning train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
- Take a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Explore the site and learn about the history and culture of the Incas
- Return to Aguas Calientes for the night
Day 5: Cusco
- Return to Cusco by train and spend the day exploring the city
- Visit the San Pedro Market and sample local cuisine
- Visit the San Blas neighborhood and admire the colonial architecture
- Climb to the top of Saqsaywaman for panoramic views of the city
Day 6: Cusco to Puno
- Take a bus from Cusco to Puno, stopping along the way to visit the Andahuaylillas Church
- Explore the local markets and try traditional Andean dishes
- Visit the Puno Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region
Day 7: Lake Titicaca
- Take a tour of Lake Titicaca, visiting the floating islands of Uros and Taquile
- Explore the local markets and try traditional Andean dishes
- Return to Puno for the night and prepare for your onward journey.
Note: To keep costs low, it’s recommended to travel by bus or shared taxis, opt for budget-friendly accommodations, and eat at local markets and street vendors. Also, consider purchasing a tourist pass, which includes discounts on entrance fees to popular attractions.
Expense Plan Details for Peru 7-Day Trip:
Transportation:
- Flight from Lima to Cusco: Approximately $100-200 USD, depending on the airline and time of booking
- Bus from Cusco to Puno: Approximately $15-20 USD
- Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes: Approximately $70-80 USD
- Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu: Approximately $24 USD
Accommodation:
- Lima: Budget-friendly hotels start at approximately $20-30 USD per night
- Cusco: Budget-friendly hotels start at approximately $20-30 USD per night
- Puno: Budget-friendly hotels start at approximately $20-30 USD per night
Food:
- Lima: Local cuisine can be found for as low as $2-3 USD per meal
- Cusco: Local cuisine can be found for as low as $2-3 USD per meal
- Puno: Local cuisine can be found for as low as $2-3 USD per meal
Attractions:
- Machu Picchu entrance fee: Approximately $50 USD
- Tour of the Sacred Valley: Approximately $30-40 USD
- Lake Titicaca tour: Approximately $40-50 USD
- Tourist pass (optional): Approximately $40-60 USD
Estimated Total:
- Without the tourist pass: Approximately $500-600 USD
- With the tourist pass: Approximately $540-660 USD
Note: These estimates are based on low-cost options and prices may vary depending on the season and exchange rate. It’s recommended to have a flexible budget and be prepared for unexpected expenses.