Snow-capped peaks of the Andes, the mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu, and the vibrant life of Lima—trips to Peru attract adventurers from all over the world. But how should you explore the land of the Incas? While some swear by the freedom of independent travel, others prefer organized tours. In this article, we’ll show you what it’s like to travel in Peru on your own or with a guide, and help you decide which option is best for you.
Why Choose a Guide?
Convenience and local know-how—these are the key advantages of organized tours. A guide takes care of transportation and accommodation, but most importantly, they lead you to places that would be difficult to discover without local expertise. While you admire the breathtaking views of the Andes, they handle the logistics and are aware of potential risks. For those considering traveling to Peru with children, a guide becomes an invaluable asset, helping to plan the itinerary and deal with unexpected situations while you focus on your little ones.
Traveling to Peru with a guide is especially beneficial for first-time visitors to South America. Unlike European destinations, you may encounter a language barrier—Spanish is essential in Peru, and English often won’t suffice. A guide helps you overcome this barrier and assists with acclimatization to the high altitudes. This is particularly valuable if you are traveling to Peru in March, during the rainy season, when local guides’ expertise proves even more helpful.
Local guides also often share fascinating stories and historical insights that you might otherwise miss.
The Downsides of Organized Tours
A fixed schedule means you are dependent on the entire group. While independent travelers can tailor each day to their mood and spend more time at certain places, sticking to an itinerary—an example of which you can see here: https://tourismelillerois.com/practical-guide-to-machu-picchu.html — is a must. Moreover, organized tours often focus solely on the most visited spots. To truly experience authentic Peru, including interactions with locals, you are more likely to succeed by exploring on your own.
Independent Traveling in Peru—Freedom with a Touch of Adrenaline
The dangers of traveling in Peru don’t need to be overstated, but caution is always a good idea. If you choose to explore Peru without a guide, you can expect a greater sense of adventure but also more worries. Local transportation operates differently than in Europe—buses don’t follow strict schedules, and traveling off the main tourist routes often requires some improvisation.
On the other hand, you have complete freedom and can go wherever your feet take you. You can easily spend an hour at a beautiful viewpoint or chatting with locals, without anyone pushing you to the next destination. Not to mention that independent trips to Peru are usually cheaper.
What to Know When Traveling Solo to Peru
A basic list of essentials you’ll need if you are traveling alone to Peru without a guide:
- Spanish at least at a basic level
- Travel insurance with coverage for high-altitude hiking
- Offline maps and a basic dictionary
- Contacts for local hospitals and the embassy
- Accommodation reservations at least for the first few days
Tip: If you’re unfamiliar with risky areas, it’s recommended to avoid certain neighborhoods in large cities like Lima, especially at night.
And what is ultimately better?
Whether you are drawn to finding local tours in Peru and immersing yourself in the local culture on your own, or you prefer the comfort and safety of an organized tour, Peru has something to offer. The important thing is to carefully consider your options and prepare for the specific conditions in this fascinating country. If you want a clear mind, just enjoy traveling, and don’t mind being in a group, choose a guide. But if you want to enjoy every moment your own way and a little worry won’t kill you, feel free to go alone.