Some destinations are perfect for wandering around on your own, at your own pace, and even without a plan. With so much to see and do in Peru, however, particularly off the beaten trail, it’s actually better to opt for a guided tour.
You can do this in one of two ways. One, you can find a guided tour operator that handles your entire trip from start to end. This is a great, easy way to enjoy Peru in luxury, no matter whether you’re after a pampered experience or an out-of-this-world adventure.
The second option is to handle transport on your own and book on-the-day tours. This will give you greater freedom to build your own itinerary, but it does mean you need to manage booking public transport or driving on your own.
Regardless, Peru is best seen via a tour, and here are the top five reasons why:
- Ensure You Secure Your Place
One of the most stressful parts about booking a trip to Peru is the fact that it’s so popular. Machu Picchu, in particular, sees millions of tourists every year. There has even been a mass protest recently, which stranded over 1,400 tourists arriving by train. This doesn’t mean that you should avoid Machu Picchu, but that you do need to be very careful to ensure that you get a place.
On your own, you need to buy the return train ticket, which can start around $140. From there, you also need to buy the return bus ticket, which has limited seats. That’s on top of, of course, the timed ticket entry to Machu Picchu itself.

You can easily avoid these issues and ensure you get to your destination in comfort and style with several Peru tour packages that combine unique activities with essentials like transport and tickets to Machu Picchu.
- Learn the History and Culture
Another great reason to take a tour, particularly a small or even private tour, is that you can learn all about the rich history of the places that you’re visiting. This is the best way to learn and explore all at once.
- Enrich Your Experience with Unique Excursions
There are so many wonderful destinations, from farms to artisans, that are well worth your time, but may not be easily learned about when you’re booking your trip from a computer. By choosing a tour, you can benefit from on-the-ground local knowledge of the best spots, allowing you to enjoy more of Peru than you ever thought was possible.
- Stay Safe and Secure
Another big reason to take a tour is that it’s simply safer. By opting for a reputable and well-regarded tour company, you can ensure that your safety and comfort will be guaranteed throughout the experience. Your guides will be able to speak the local language and will be very familiar with the routes, so you’ll never get lost or have to worry.
- Enjoy Seamless Travel
When you choose a multi-day itinerary, you don’t need to worry about things not working out, getting the wrong tickets, or not even realizing you needed something (like a bus after you take the train to Machu Picchu). Instead, you can enjoy seamless travel that can actually help you see and do more, rather than trying to figure it all out by yourself on the day.



