Peru blends ancient history with natural beauty—offering UK travellers access to world-famous sites like Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and the Amazon. Whether you're planning a short break, a one-week itinerary, or an all inclusive senior-friendly trip, this guide outlines how to get there, what to do, and where to stay for a seamless 2025 Peru vacation.
Why Visit Peru in 2025 and How to Get There
Why Peru?
Peru is more accessible than ever in 2025, with updated infrastructure around Cusco, eco-conscious Amazon lodges, and increased availability of direct train access to Machu Picchu. It’s ideal for travellers interested in archaeology, food, nature, and Andean culture—all in one cohesive itinerary.
Getting There from the UK
– While there are no direct flights, several one-stop options fly from London, Manchester, and Edinburgh to Lima via Madrid, Amsterdam, or Miami.
– Carriers include LATAM Airlines, Iberia, KLM, Air France, and American Airlines.
– Flight times range from 14 to 17 hours.
– Most Peru vacation packages from the UK include airport transfers and domestic flights to Cusco or Iquitos.
Tip: Choose multi-city flights (e.g., London to Lima, return from Cusco) for efficient routing.
What to Do with 3 Days in Peru
Best For: Quick cultural immersion or city breaks before onward travel.
Suggested Base: Cusco or Lima
Option 1 – Cusco:
Day 1 – Arrive and acclimatise. Walk through the Plaza de Armas, visit the San Pedro Market, and enjoy a traditional dinner.
Day 2 – Day trip to the Sacred Valley: Pisac ruins, Ollantaytambo, and a local weaving centre.
Day 3 – Early train to Machu Picchu, explore with a guide, then return by evening.
Option 2 – Lima:
Day 1 – Explore Miraflores and the cliffside Malecon.
Day 2 – Visit the Historic Centre, Larco Museum, and sample ceviche in Barranco.
Day 3 – Optional: Day trip to Paracas for the Ballestas Islands or relax in Lima before departure.
Where to Stay
– Budget: Pariwana Hostel (Cusco), Selina Lima
– Mid-range: Tierra Viva Hotels, Casa Andina
– Luxury: Belmond Palacio Nazarenas (Cusco), Country Club Lima Hotel
Best For
3 day Peru vacation packages from the UK with hotel, day tours, and Machu Picchu add-ons.
How to Spend 7 Days in Peru
Best For: Travellers wanting to balance Inca history, nature, and city experiences.
Recommended Route: Lima – Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Day 1 – Arrive in Lima and explore the Miraflores boardwalk.
Day 2 – Morning flight to Cusco. Acclimate and walk the historic centre.
Day 3 – Travel through the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Moray, Chinchero). Overnight in Ollantaytambo.
Day 4 – Take the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu. Guided visit, overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Day 5 – Optional second entrance to Machu Picchu or hike to Sun Gate. Return to Cusco.
Day 6 – Explore Cusco’s Sacsayhuamán fortress, Qorikancha, and artisan markets.
Day 7 – Fly back to Lima for departure or extend to the Amazon.
Accommodation Picks
– Sacred Valley: El Albergue, Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel
– Aguas Calientes: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
– Cusco: JW Marriott El Convento, Antigua Casona San Blas
Perfect For
7 day Peru vacation packages from the UK that include airfare, hotels, and train access to Machu Picchu.
All Inclusive and Senior Friendly Packages
Designed for Comfort and Ease
All inclusive Peru vacation packages offer expert-curated routes, transportation, and guides—perfect for those over 55 or travellers who prefer structure.
Typical Inclusions
– Round-trip UK flights
– Domestic Peru flights and ground transfers
– 4-star or higher accommodations
– Meals, site entry tickets, guided tours
– English-speaking hosts, porters, and medical assistance if needed
Why They Work for Seniors
– Moderate-paced itineraries with extra acclimatisation days
– Luggage handling and door-to-door transfers
– Access to luxury train services and alternative routes to avoid altitude stress
Top Providers
– Titan Travel: Small group tours with flexible pacing
– Saga Holidays: Senior-exclusive Peru vacation packages with hotel and cultural guides
– Cox & Kings: Bespoke all inclusive luxury packages
– G Adventures (Comfort style): Small group escorted travel with elder-friendly routes
How to Get Around and Where to Stay
Transport Options
– Domestic Flights: Lima to Cusco or Iquitos via LATAM, Sky Airline
– Trains: Vistadome and Hiram Bingham to/from Machu Picchu
– Long-distance buses: Cruz del Sur for safe, affordable rides
– Private tours: Best for Sacred Valley or Amazon add-ons
Accommodation Tips
– Book early in high seasons (May–September)
– Stay in the Sacred Valley if altitude affects you—lower elevation than Cusco
– Boutique lodges in the Amazon offer wildlife immersion with high comfort
Where to Book
– Trailfinders and TUI UK: Flight-inclusive Peru vacation packages with hotel
– Exodus Travels: Adventure-style with cultural immersion
– Saga and Titan: Trusted for senior vacation packages
– Love Holidays: Good for cheap Peru vacation packages in 2025
FAQs and Final Thoughts
Do I need a visa to enter Peru?
No. UK citizens can visit Peru visa-free for up to 90 days.
Is Peru safe for tourists?
Yes, in tourist areas like Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Lima. Always use registered guides.
When is the best time to visit?
May to September for dry weather in the Andes. Avoid February (wettest).
Is Machu Picchu wheelchair accessible?
Some viewpoints are, but most of the terrain is uneven. Ask tour operators for adapted options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're hiking Inca trails, cruising the Amazon, or strolling historic plazas, Peru is rich in adventure and cultural depth. With tailored 3 day breaks, immersive 7 day Peru vacation packages from the UK, and senior-friendly all inclusive options, the journey to this South American treasure is easier than ever to plan—and unforgettable to experience.