Lonely Planet Peru Travel Guide Review

Last Updated: March 18, 2025

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Key Takeaways:

Section	What’s inside?
Review: Section 1 Plan Your Trip	Covers essential travel planning, including itineraries, seasonal travel tips, outdoor activities, and logistics like visas, money, and transport.
Review: Section 2 On the Road	The core of the guide, providing in-depth regional breakdowns with practical details on sights, accommodations, food, transport, and cultural experiences.
Review: Section 3 Understand Peru	Offers historical, cultural, and environmental insights, covering ancient civilizations, indigenous communities, Peruvian cuisine, and biodiversity.
Review: Section 4 Survival Guide	A practical resource covering safety, visas, health, transportation, legal matters, and accessibility, ensuring smooth and secure travel.

I just finished reading Lonely Planet Peru Travel Guide , and I found it to be a comprehensive and well-structured resource for planning and exploring Peru. The Plan Your Trip section lays a strong foundation, offering essential insights into itineraries, seasonal travel tips, and outdoor activities, including trekking the Inca Trail.

The On the Road section starts the guide, breaking down Peru’s diverse regions in detail, from Lima’s urban vibrancy to the remote landscapes of the Amazon and the Andes. Each destination is covered with practical information on accommodations, food, transport, and cultural experiences, making navigation easier for all types of travelers.

The Understand section offers historical and cultural depth, covering Peru’s ancient civilizations, indigenous communities, and renowned cuisine, helping travelers appreciate the country beyond its tourist sites.

Meanwhile, the Survival Guide section ensures a smooth travel experience with practical tips on visas, money, health, transportation, and safety. The guide balances inspiration with functionality, making it a valuable tool for both first-time visitors and seasoned explorers.

To give you more insight on this one of the best travel guidebooks ,  here is my detailed review for each sections and chapter of this travel guide:

Review of Section 1: Plan Your Trip

The Plan Your Trip section of Lonely Planet Peru gave me an introduction to what to expect while traveling in the country. It lays out top experiences, seasonal travel tips, and practical information like visas, money, and transportation, making it easy to plan the logistics of a trip. I appreciated the range of itineraries, whether for a quick one-week highlights tour or a deep dive into Peru’s  landscapes.

The outdoor segment was particularly strong, showcasing the best trekking routes, wildlife encounters, and adventure activities. It was clear from the start that Peru offers something for every kind of traveler, from history buffs drawn to Machu Picchu and Kuélap to adrenaline junkies looking to raft the Río Apurímac or hike the Cordillera Blanca.

Beyond the basics, I found the What’s New section especially useful, with updates on recent archaeological discoveries, like the giant cat geoglyph at the Nazca Lines, and new culinary trends such as the rise of Nikkei cuisine.

The guide also acknowledged the impact of the pandemic on tourism, which helped put things into context for what to expect now. While I liked the level of detail, some parts, like the seasonal travel breakdown, felt a bit lengthy. Still, this section did exactly what I needed, it gave me a clear overview of how to structure my trip and what experiences to prioritize.

Review of Section 2: On the Road

The section On the Road was the longest and major part of the whole guide book.  It explained all the necessary elements of different regions of Peru including sights, activities, tours, festivals , eating, drinking & nightlife, shopping and many more.

Lima

This chapter captures Lima’s chaotic energy, history, and vibrant culture well. From crumbling cliffs overlooking the Pacific to colonial architecture and world-class gastronomy, the guide presents Lima as an essential stop for any traveler.

The guide emphasizes Lima’s rich history, tracing its transformation from a pre-Columbian settlement to the Spanish "City of Kings," through wars, earthquakes, and modern urban renewal. It provides historical depth without overloading the reader. Key attractions like Museo Larco, Plaza de Armas, and Iglesia de Santo Domingo get well-deserved highlights.

The culinary focus is a strong point. The chapter stresses Lima’s status as a food capital, referencing iconic dishes and top-rated restaurants. The inclusion of specific recommendations, from cevicherías to upscale novoandina cuisine, makes it practical for foodies.

Miraflores and Barranco, two of the city’s most popular districts, are well covered. The guide describes Miraflores as the commercial hub with ocean views and high-end dining, while Barranco is portrayed as a bohemian enclave with vibrant nightlife and boutique hotels.

The chapter is highly structured, but in some parts, it reads like a catalog of places rather than a narrative that immerses the reader in Lima’s atmosphere. While the recommendations are useful, the descriptions of nightlife and shopping could use more personality or firsthand insight.

Some areas, like La Punta and Callao, are flagged as requiring caution, but the chapter doesn't offer much safety advice beyond general warnings. Since some tourists might venture there, more guidance would be helpful.

The blend of history, gastronomy, and activities presents a balanced view of the city. It could benefit from a bit more storytelling, but as a practical travel guide, it succeeds in making the case that Lima is not to be skipped.

South Coast

The South Coast has a captivating yet rugged stretch of land between the Andes and the Pacific. The region is characterized by dramatic sand dunes, ancient geoglyphs, and fertile river valleys that sustain local wine and pisco production. The chapter highlights key destinations such as Lunahuaná for white-water rafting, Paracas for wildlife-rich boat tours, and Huacachina for thrilling sandboarding experiences.

Historical intrigue is also present with the mysterious Nazca Lines and the remnants of Inca settlements. The guide does well to outline the region's adventure, culture, and natural beauty while maintaining a practical focus on transport, accommodations, and seasonal travel tips.

The chapter’s strength lies in its ability to balance adventure tourism with cultural insights. It introduces lesser-known coastal towns like Chala, Mollendo, and Ilo, offering a more off-the-beaten-path experience beyond the Gringo Trail.

Practical recommendations, such as the best seafood spots and local wineries, make it a useful companion for travelers. However, while comprehensive, the chapter could benefit from a deeper dive into the local communities and their traditions, particularly in areas like Chincha, known for its Afro-Peruvian heritage.

Arequipa & Canyon Country

Here the guide provides detailed exploration of Arequipa’s colonial charm, vibrant culture, and the breathtaking natural landscapes surrounding it. The guide effectively balances historical depth with practical travel advice, highlighting key attractions like the Monasterio de Santa Catalina, Museo Santuarios Andinos, and Colca Canyon, while also covering adventure opportunities such as trekking, mountaineering, and rafting.

The inclusion of local dishes, particularly Arequipa’s picanterías and Novoandina cuisine, adds to the region’s appeal, making it a compelling destination for both cultural explorers and outdoor enthusiasts.

However, while the depth of information is impressive, the chapter feels slightly overwhelming, especially with its extensive hotel and restaurant listings, which could benefit from more curation. The Canyon Country section, though crucial, is somewhat overshadowed by the focus on Arequipa, and certain areas, like Reserva Nacional Salinas y Aguada Blanca, could use more detail.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the chapter successfully conveys Arequipa’s unique blend of urban sophistication and rugged adventure, making it an essential guide for travelers exploring this dynamic region of Peru.

Lake Titicaca

With exploration of this culturally and geographically significant region, the chapter balances historical insights, highlighting pre-Inca civilizations like Pukara and Tiwanaku, with detailed descriptions of modern-day life, including bustling towns such as Puno and Juliaca.

The breakdown of islands, homestays, festivals, and adventure activities ensures that travelers can plan their visit according to their interests, whether they seek cultural immersion or scenic exploration.

However, the density of information can be overwhelming, particularly in the sections on transportation and lodging. While the guide does well to list multiple options, it could benefit from more curated recommendations to help travelers make quicker decisions.

Additionally, the Bolivian side of the lake, though covered, feels somewhat secondary to the Peruvian highlights, despite Copacabana and Isla del Sol being key attractions. Nonetheless, the chapter excels in offering rich historical context, practical travel advice, and immersive experiences, making it a comprehensive resource for those venturing to the world’s highest navigable lake.

Cuzco & The Sacred Valley

This chapter offers a well-rounded, engaging, and practical resource for travelers exploring this historic region. The guide does an excellent job of blending rich historical context with modern travel logistics, ensuring that readers gain a deep understanding of Cuzco’s Inca past while also navigating its present-day tourism scene.

The structure is clear and logical, covering key destinations like Saqsaywamán, the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu, as well as lesser-known sites like Choquequirao and Andahuaylillas. Recommendations for accommodations, dining, and adventure activities are diverse and well-categorized, catering to all budgets and interests. The seasonal travel tips and transportation advice add practical insights, making it easy for travelers to plan their itinerary efficiently.

The "Machu Picchu & The Inca Trail" section provides a thorough and immersive look at one of the world's most iconic destinations. It ensures that readers understand the awe-inspiring ruins and the logistics of reaching and exploring them.

It  describes the mystical allure of Machu Picchu, the rigors and rewards of the Inca Trail, and alternative treks such as the Vilcabamba route and Choquequirao. The descriptions of Aguas Calientes, its accommodations, dining options, and hot springs, help set realistic expectations, while transport details and ticketing procedures provide  guidance for navigating the often confusing entry system.

The Centro Cultural and iPerú office are particularly highlighted as key resources for purchasing Machu Picchu entrance tickets and obtaining official travel information.

The guide doesn’t shy away from discussing commercialization, crowd control measures, and environmental concerns, while also offering insider tips on avoiding peak-time congestion and selecting the best hiking routes.

The information on Wayna Picchu, Cerro Machu Picchu, and the Sun Gate helps travelers make informed choices based on their fitness level and interest in panoramic views. Whether planning a classic day trip, a multi-day trek, or a deeper exploration of lesser-known trails, this chapter delivers both inspiration and essential logistics, making it an invaluable resource for anyone heading to Machu Picchu.

It doesn’t just highlight major attractions but also explores off-the-beaten-path experiences, such as mountain biking into the Amazon, white-water rafting, and lesser-known treks. The discussion on shamanic ceremonies and the commercialization of Ayahuasca tourism is particularly noteworthy, as it provides an honest, responsible perspective on a complex topic. The writing is engaging and evocative, immersing readers in the vibrant energy of Cuzco’s festivals, bustling markets, and archaeological wonders.

Overall, this chapter is an essential read for anyone visiting Cuzco and the Sacred Valley, offering both inspiration and practical guidance for an unforgettable experience.

Central Highlands

This chapter vividly captures the essence of Peru's heartland, depicting a region of striking contrasts and beauty. Unlike Peru’s more tourist-heavy locations, the Central Highlands offer a refreshingly authentic experience, characterized by ancient ruins, remote landscapes, and rich cultural celebrations, notably during the vibrant Easter festivities in Ayacucho.

Adventure enthusiasts and travelers seeking genuine local interactions will relish experiences like hiking to the isolated ruins near Andahuaylas or exploring the uncanny rock formations at Santuario Nacional Huayllay. The guide effectively emphasizes the area's unique blend of scenic wonders and cultural immersion, underscoring its appeal to those who wish to escape the usual tourist trail.

Additionally, the practical insights provided, such as recommended times to visit, like the starry, clear nights perfect for thermal baths in Huancavelica or Ayacucho’s renowned Semana Santa, enhance the reader's ability to plan an enriching journey.

Highlighting the colonial-era library at Santa Rosa de Ocopa and the lush tranquility of Tingo María’s Parque Nacional, the guide encourages deeper exploration beyond typical itineraries.

However, it does not shy away from addressing critical local realities, including the severe environmental and social impacts of mining in places like Cerro de Pasco, adding a layer of responsible awareness.

The chapter succeeds in showcasing the Central Highlands as an alluring destination, brimming with authentic adventures and meaningful cultural connections.

North Coast

This chapter provides an engaging and detailed overview of this striking region of Peru, known for its stunning coastlines, world-class surf spots, and rich archaeological heritage. The introduction successfully captures readers' attention with vivid imagery of the landscape, highlighting iconic attractions such as the ancient civilization at Caral, the surfing hotspot of Puerto Chicama, and the massive adobe city of Chan Chan.

The chapter is clear and appealing as  information is efficiently structured, with concise and practical details regarding transport, accommodations, and attractions. Highlights such as Chan Chan, Huaca de la Luna, and Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipán are especially well-presented, emphasizing their historical significance and visitor accessibility.

Descriptions of cities such as Trujillo and Chimbote provide a balanced mix of historical context, cultural ambiance, and practical tips. The guide brings archaeological sites to life with vivid imagery, historical context, and practical visiting information.

However, the chapter could improve by addressing some minor issues. For instance, certain passages, like the detailed transport descriptions, occasionally become dense and may overwhelm casual readers. Simplifying some of these sections or incorporating visual aids like maps might enhance readability.

Overall, this chapter is thorough, informative, and effective, perfectly capturing the character of Peru's North Coast. It's valuable both as a practical travel companion and a captivating read that will appeal to travelers seeking historical depth and adventure along Peru's coastal deserts and archaeological wonders.

Huaraz and the Cordilleras

Huaraz and the Cordilleras offer a paradise for adventurers, promising some of South America’s most captivating landscapes and outdoor experiences. The region bursts with exhilarating trekking routes, such as the famed Santa Cruz Trek and the ruggedly spectacular Huayhuash Circuit, both of which offer world-class mountain vistas, high-altitude lakes, and challenging passes.

Huaraz itself, though not picturesque due to earthquake devastation, is lively, welcoming, and deeply infused with adventure-culture, brimming with cozy bars, international eateries, and experienced guides who expertly facilitate treks, climbing expeditions, and other adrenaline-fueled endeavors.

Other highlights include:

1. Chavín de Huántar: 3000-year-old ruins offering a fascinating historical experience.
2. Acclimatization hikes: Trails like Laguna Churup and Laguna 69 help adjust to altitude while providing stunning views.
3. Adventure & culture: The region blends mountaineering thrills with rich cultural heritage.
4. Trekking paradise: A perfect mix of rugged wilderness and vibrant local communities.

Northern Highlands

The Northern Highlands of Peru present a captivating fusion of remote, mist-shrouded landscapes and richly layered history, where ancient ruins coexist harmoniously with vibrant contemporary culture. Cajamarca anchors this region, a charming colonial town where cobblestone streets echo stories of the Inca Empire’s dramatic encounter with the Spanish.

Further into the cloud forests surrounding Chachapoyas lie archaeological sites, notably the massive stone citadel of Kuélap and the Gocta waterfall.

More highlights are:

1. The route via Celendín and Leimebamba offers an adventurous ride through cloudy mountains and deep valleys.
2. Tarapoto provides access to jungle lodges, pristine rivers, and local culture.
3. The Northern Highlands showcase diverse experiences blending history, nature, and tradition.

Amazon Basin

Peru’s Amazon Basin captivates travelers with its combination of exotic wildlife, lush landscapes, and unique cultural encounters. Whether exploring the  riverside streets of Puerto Maldonado, the Amazon’s gateway in the south, or drifting down jungle rivers like Río Tambopata or Madre de Dios, travelers find themselves amid Peru’s wild heart, where macaws colorfully gather, monkeys swing overhead, and the rare jaguar might still make an appearance.

Accommodations range from comfortable jungle lodges, such as Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica, offering luxury amid lush canopies, to homestays providing more intimate connections with local life.

Amazon Basin is  also a place with rapid change. The construction of the Transoceanic Highway, connecting Peru to Brazil, has boosted accessibility and tourism but introduced grave environmental and social impacts, including deforestation, threats to indigenous tribes, and the spread of illegal mining and logging.

Thus, travelers  traveling here become not just explorers but witnesses to a pivotal moment in the Amazon’s history, an encounter with   biodiversity that makes us aware of conservation’s urgent necessity.

Review of Section 3: Understand Peru

This section was an engaging and impressively thorough account that draws you into Peru’s layered story. Right away, I appreciated how vividly the history came alive, seamlessly blending epic events and personal anecdotes from the era of Inca grandeur through the turbulence of Spanish colonization, right into the political turmoil of modern times.

The historical narrative was compelling, rich yet never tedious, guiding me effortlessly through complex periods. I particularly enjoyed the attention given to pre-Columbian civilizations, offering fascinating insights into cultures like the Moche and Nazca, whose legacies have always fascinated me.

The descriptions of the  pottery, ceremonial rituals, and enigmatic geoglyphs made this section more valuable.

Cuisine was another standout. It was impossible not to get hungry (or at least curious) reading about how Peruvian food evolved through centuries of cultural blending, creating dishes that felt both authentic and experimental long before 'fusion cuisine' became a global trend.

The section smartly captured the pride Peruvians have in their culinary traditions, from coastal ceviches to highland stews, making me realize just how deeply gastronomy is woven into Peru's identity.

Finally, the section about Peru's natural environment was a joy. The descriptive narrative effortlessly transported me to the towering Andes, across the sprawling Amazon, and along the desert coast, showing Peru as a place of astonishing ecological diversity. It felt informative without becoming overly encyclopedic, maintaining a lively tone throughout.

In short, "Understand Peru" does exactly what it promises: it helps you understand a nation that is complex, multifaceted, and endlessly fascinating. Whether you're a history buff, food enthusiast, or nature lover, this section alone makes you want to pack a bag and start exploring.

Review of Section 4: Survival Guide

This is a practical and thoughtfully constructed section of the guide book, making it indispensable for travelers aiming for smooth and secure experiences in Peru. Right from the outset, I was impressed by the guide’s exhaustive coverage, everything from essential travel logistics and accommodations to detailed insights on personal safety, cultural expectations, and legal advice.

Followings were major highlights of this section:

1. Accommodation Guidance: Differentiates between hostales, hospedajes, and higher-end hotels for budget-conscious and comfort-based decisions.
2. Practical Hotel Tips: Managing street noise, testing door locks, and dealing with unreliable plumbing.
3. Safety & Security Advice: Covers risks like pickpocketing, scams, and express kidnappings with actionable strategies.
4. Practical Safety Tips: Carry valuables discreetly, recognize criminal tactics, and handle interactions with authorities.
5. Accessible Travel: Honest assessment of mobility challenges with contacts for specialized tour operators and advocacy groups.
6. Sensitive Topics Addressed: Practical guidance for LGBT+ travelers and solo female travelers, balancing cultural realities with encouragement.

Overall, the "Survival Guide" felt comprehensive, practical, and refreshingly honest. It's exactly what travelers need: direct, no-nonsense information that prepares them thoroughly, whether navigating local transport, handling money safely, or simply understanding the local norms. Anyone venturing to Peru would find this guide an indispensable companion for a hassle-free journey.

Final Thoughts

Lonely Planet’s Peru travel guide is overall a helpful resource for anyone planning a trip to this diverse and captivating country. It  balances inspiration with practicality, offering a rich blend of historical and cultural depth alongside clear, well-structured travel advice.

The Plan Your Trip section lays a strong foundation with  itineraries and logistics, while On the Road delivers an impressive regional breakdown filled with must-see attractions, accommodation recommendations, and local experiences.

The Understand Peru section adds another layer of depth, offering engaging narratives on history, cuisine, and geography, making the country’s complex identity more accessible.

Finally, the Survival Guide stands out for its no-nonsense, practical approach, covering everything from safety concerns to transportation, ensuring travelers are well-prepared for any situation.

While the guide excels in many aspects, it can sometimes feel dense, especially in sections with exhaustive listings of hotels, restaurants, and transport options. Some parts could benefit from more curation and a slightly more engaging narrative tone.

This latest 11th Edition was published in November, 2021 , so some of the information in the guidebook needs to be updated. Thankfully, a new edition of this Guide Book is planned to be released in October, 2025.

However, these are minor drawbacks in an otherwise outstanding guide. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Lonely Planet Peru provides all the tools needed for an enriching and seamless experience.

I hope my review will be helpful for you to use this guide properly. Lastly, I want to thank all the readers for appreciating my previous review of Lonely Planet Costa Rica travel guide. After my insight on that Central American destination, I believe this information about Peru, a gem of South America will help you too.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)

Author: Susan Bel