A honeymoon in Peru may not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning this important vacation, but it should be! Your honeymoon is an opportunity to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime bucket list experiences, with its mysterious lost cities and exciting and vibrant rhythms of Latin American life. With its diverse culture and natural landscapes, Peru has something special for every couple to discover!
Peru has a lot to offer when it comes to honeymooning, especially for those seeking a peaceful, calm or even a bit of a luxurious vacation after the stressful madness of wedding planning.
In this post, we’ll go over everything you need to know to plan your romantic journey through Peru.
Is Peru Really a Good Honeymoon Destination?
Absolutely! Spending your romantic vacation in Peru definitely is a wise choice. You can admire its nature and beauty in the Amazon jungle , relax on its northern beaches, or dive into the fascinating history of the mysterious Inca civilizations. What’s more, Peru offers great value for money. You can design an amazing romantic travel program for almost any budget.
Below, you can find more inspiration for your trip to Peru!
Planning Your Peru Honeymoon: Best Time to Visit Peru
Unlike in North America, Peru doesn’t really experience four distinct seasons. Instead, most of the country moves between a dry season and a wet season. What’s more, the seasons are basically opposite whether you’re on the coast or in the mountains, which can add a layer of complication to your trip planning.
There are pros and cons to both seasons, especially depending on what you want to do or where you want to go. Let’s take a look.
Dry Season – May through September
This time of year is winter in South America, though it’s a far cry from what winter is like in most parts of North America or Europe. In fact, the low water season is typically the best time to visit the Andean mountains in Peru, though it is also the busiest.
In and around Cusco, the dry season is as it sounds – dry. This time of year is typically sunny with few clouds and very little chance of rain. While the temperature is moderate during the day (19-23°C), the intense sun makes it feel very warm, even hot at times, especially at lower altitudes.
The nights, however, are freezing. The nighttime temperature is typically between 0°C and -5°C in the city; colder in the mountains (as low as -15°C!). This is the Andean winter, after all!
By comparison, the winter months in the capital city of Lima and the South Coast are dreary and overcast. The daytime temperature is in the same range, but the humid coastal climate and lack of sun makes it feel quite cold and unpleasant. At night, expect the temperature to drop just a few degrees from the daytime high – it’s nothing like the cold Andean winter air!
Wet Season – December through March
Wet season in the Andes is “low season” for tourism. This can be an advantage for those wanting to escape the crowds, or even find discounts in some of the best Peruvian honeymoon destinations.
It is not a bad time at all to plan a wedding journey in Machu Picchu, as long as you’re prepared. The rains are typically heaviest in January and February, but best of all, they are not constant. Although there is likely to be one or even a few heavy rain showers every day during the rainy season, they typically last an hour or two and then the sun comes out. It is also somewhat warmer at this time of year AND the natural landscapes are the most beautiful, since everything is lush green and blooming.
By contrast, this is the best time of year to visit the Peruvian capital! In the South Coast, December through March feels like a proper summer with hot, clear, sunny days.
Shoulder Season – April, October, November
In our opinion, these are some of the best months to plan any kind of Peru vacation. These transitional months usually take the best of each season that they flank: usually relatively dry, but a bit warmer in the mountains; fairly sunny and not too hot on the coast. In April, the mountains around Cusco are typically still green after several months of rain, too! It’s worth considering, however, that Easter can fall in April and that makes it VERY busy!
Read more about when is the best time to travel in our blog post.
Unforgettable Honeymoon Trip: Where to Go in Peru
Unless you plan to honeymoon for a couple of months, you probably can’t do it all. For a typical 2-week romantic vacation, you should plan on visiting 3-4 main destinations. You’ll need to think about what you most want out of your vacation in order to plan the best Peru package.
Do you want to sit back and relax, or have an adventure trip? Jungle, mountains or beaches? There is so much to see and to discover, deciding where to honeymoon can be a little difficult. Fear not! We have summed up everything you need to know about the best romantic travel destinations in Peru. So, keep reading for our top tips and suggestions.
Understanding Your Options: Peru’s Geographical Zones
Peru is divided into three geographical zones: Coast, Highlands, and Jungle (in Spanish, costa, sierra y selva). Each region is unique in terms of climate, vegetation, and attractions. They are all worth a visit, but you should probably stick to one or two regions per trip.
- Costa (Coast): Tumbes, Mancora, Piura, and Chiclayo (in the North); Lima, Nazca, Ica and Paracas (in the South)
- Sierra (Highlands): Cusco, Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, Puno, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa, Colca Canyon
- Selva (Jungle): Iquitos, Tarapoto, Pucallpa, Puerto Maldonado, Manu
Although Peru is not a particularly large country, the distances between key attractions are deceptively large, and it’s easiest to get around by plane rather than by car or bus. Besides, Lima is the central hub for flights to just about any destination. While it might seem like it would be shorter to fly from one city directly to another, chances are you will have to backtrack to Lima first.
Typical distances between cities
- Lima to Cusco: 1h30 by plane; 20-23h by bus
- Cusco to Puno: 1h by plane; 8h by bus
- Cusco to Arequipa: 1h by plane; 10h by bus
- Cusco to Puerto Maldonado: approx. 3h30 by plane (with stopover in Lima – two days a week there are direct flights from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado); 21h by bus
- Lima to Piura: 1h45 by plane; 16h by bus
Designing the Dream Peru Honeymoon
Peru has a lot to offer, whether you want to experience a private tour in the Amazon, get to know the Peruvian Andes Mountains, or spend some time on the coast. But what are the best regions for a honeymoon in beautiful Peru? We have summed up the most romantic ones for you below.
Lima & the South Coast
Don’t listen to what other people say: Lima is definitely worth a stop on your travel program. The popular neighbourhoods of Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro offer some of the country’s finest private villas and dining experiences. Did you know? There are currently four Michelin-starred restaurants in the capital of Peru, known for their excellent food and impeccable service. If you’re looking for a truly memorable dining experience, Peru’s capital is the perfect start! You can enjoy local restaurants serving amazing seafood while taking in beautiful views of the Pacific.
A trip down the South Coast will include stops in Paracas and Nazca. Nazca and the nearby Huacachina oasis is a great addition to an adventurous trip, with a chance to not only see the famous Nazca lines from up above, but also go racing down the sand dunes in a dune buggy.
For animal-lovers, Paracas is a great stop. From here, you can take a boat ride out to Islas Ballestas where you can see sea lions, pelicans and other aquatic life.
Arequipa & the Colca Canyon
The White City Arequipa can be also a great option! Beautiful colonial buildings, built from locally mined sillar stone, line the central plaza and nearby neighbourhoods. Some not-to-be-missed attractions and best areas include the Cathedral and the Santa Catalina Monastery, where a small number of cloistered nuns still live.
Arequipa is also the jumping off point for the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world! Other than being stunningly beautiful, the Colca Canyon offers the chance to spot soaring Andean condors.
Lake Titicaca
The highest navigable lake in the world is shared between Peru and Bolivia. A day or two out on the lake will include visits to some of some its most famous islands – like Taquile (famous for its textile traditions and community tourism initiatives) and Amantaní, on the Peru side.
To go to Lake Titicaca in Peru, you first must travel to the city of Puno. Before reaching those natural islands, you will also stop at the floating islands of Uros. The Uros islands are a total marvel – man-made from locally-growing reeds, and yes, people really do live there! The same reeds are also used to build their houses and boats, and are an important part of their diet.
Cusco, the Sacred Valley & Trip to Machu Picchu
Peru is practically synonymous with Machu Picchu; it’s almost impossible to imagine a trip to this country that doesn’t include the famous citadel. As a UNESCO World Heritage site and also one of the 7 New Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is a great destination for honeymoon adventures.
Before you reach the ruins of Machu Picchu, you will inevitably pass through Cusco and the Sacred Valley, too, both worth a stop in your honeymoon tour program in their own right! The Inca capital is an incredible cosmopolitan city, with layers of Incan, colonial and modern history built into almost every corner. Its also very romantic!
The Sacred Valley is a stunning verdant valley filled with charming towns, Incan ruins and loads of charm. Being a bit lower in altitude and warmer than Cusco, it’s a great place to spend a couple of nights before joining a tour of Machu Picchu. With so much to see and do, you’ll hardly want to leave!
The Northern Beaches: Piura, Mancora
For many, a beach vacation is the classic honeymoon experience, enjoying a romantic dinner at the beach with the perfect sunset as the background. If that’s your style, then a Peru honeymoon on the Pacific Coast is a great option.
The beaches in Peru may not match the pristine white sand and crystal-blue waters of Fiji or the Caribbean, but they are still great places to honeymoon in Peru. Located close to the equator line, the beaches of northern Peru enjoy good weather year-round with more than 300 sunny days on average per year.
Piura, the northernmost department on Peru’s coast, definitely is one of the best luxury destinations with its amazing fresh seafood, beautiful beaches and great waves for surfing lovers. If you are seeking renowned beaches, we recommend to keep Mancora, Vichayito and Cabo Blanco high on your list.
The Peruvian Amazon
For nature lovers, the Amazon basin is a great romantic getaway. Have an unforgettable wildlife adventure at a fabulous jungle lodge in Puerto Maldonado, Iquitos, Tarapoto, or Pucallpa. Three, four and five-night stays in a luxurious eco-lodge offer amazing escapes in the most romantic setting. Relax in comfort in rustic-chic accommodations, while enjoying nature walks through the Amazon or nighttime boat excursions to look for caimans!
Here are two luxury jungle lodges we recommend, click for more details on availability and prices:
And if you are looking for budget jungle lodges, these are the ones we recommend:
If you are seeking an even more luxurious jungle adventure, you can also join a romantic jungle cruise, crossing slowly the Amazon River. You get to know the real jungle with its diverse wildlife, flora and fauna, while enjoying a unique stay at a luxury cruise that meets all your needs with beautiful panoramic views and high quality cuisine.
Watching the pink dolphins in the river passing by while enjoying a refreshing Pisco Sour at the terrace of the luxury Amazon cruise doesn’t sound bad, right?
What Should You Do on Your Peru Honeymoon?
Before starting to plan your romantic honeymoon to Peru, it is important to think about what you want to do while being there. Are you hiking lovers? Do you want to try out some adventure sports? Or are you more interested in the history and gastronomic delights of the country? Here we have some activities and things to keep in mind while preparing your trip:
Don’t plan too many things!
The worst thing you can do is pack too many things into a short amount of time, leaving you feeling exhausted at the end of your trip, instead of refreshed or invigorated. Remember to always plan a few free days to stroll around, relax, and really take in the sights and sounds of where you are. You’re also sure to want to build in some time perusing the shops for those memorable souvenirs!
You won’t be able to see every highlight this country has to offer, so better focus on a few main highlights instead. Less is more!
Explore the World Wonder of Machu Picchu
Exploring Machu Picchu on your honeymoon is a must. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can choose to do a multi-day trek to Machu Picchu, such as the famous Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek. Or, head to the train station of Ollantaytambo and from there, enjoy a spectacular train ride through changing landscapes to Aguas Calientes, where you can take a bus up to the magnificent citadel.
There are great romantic luxury hotels in Aguas Calientes that we can recommend.
Discover the Amazon Rainforest
The Amazon is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Dare to have an unforgettable adventure and dive into the jungle wildlife!
For a romantic Peru honeymoon, we definitely recommend an Amazon jungle cruise! This experience offer a different way to experience the rainforest – slow, comfortable and deeply immersive. Instead of focusing on a single lodge area, a cruise takes you along remote stretches of the river where wildlife viewing can be exceptional.
Each day you stop for guided forest walks, canoe outings and visits to hidden tributaries where pink river dolphins, sloths, monkeys and colorful birdlife are often spotted. Onboard, you enjoy the comfort of cabins, great gourmet food and curated activities, all while traveling deeper into untouched areas that are hard to reach by land.
We recommend Rainforest Cruises and Delfin Amazon Cruises!
A cruise brings a peaceful rhythm to your adventure and offers a wider, more diverse perspective of the Amazon ecosystem.
If you are looking for more inspiration for Peru Amazon Rainforest Tours check out our guides about Amazon Trips from Cusco and our Complete Peru Packing List for the Amazon.
Try local Peruvian food!
Even if you are not a fan of roasted guinea pig or alpaca, there are still plenty of other culinary delights to try! Peru has a diverse gastronomy, since in each region you can find different specialties and products, and the country has become renowned in recent years for its cuisine.
Tip for foodies: Take a guided tour!
A great way to discover local food is to take a food tour in Lima or Cusco. This lets you explore markets and try a variety of dishes, like ceviche, without worrying about prices or choosing what to order.
Plan to spend a few days in the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley of the Incas has a lot to offer with its Andean communities and ancient Inca sites. Spend some days in the valley, take in the natural landscape and get amazed by the local Andean lifestyle.
Where to Stay on Your Honeymoon in Peru
Peru is one of the best-equipped countries in South America for upscale travelers, with an ever-increasing number of luxury accommodations that really deliver. Let us share with you our top 6 accommodation for a romantic vacation.
Accommodation in Lima
This city offers a wide range of excellent accommodations, from elegant boutique properties to renowned luxury brands. If you stay overnight in Lima, definitely choose one that is located in the district of Miraflores or Barranco. These are save and charming areas, full of restaurants, galleries, small alleys and cafés.
Our favorite luxury hotel in Lima: SOUMA Hotel Vignette Collection by IHG with outdoor swimming pool and panoramic views of the sea!
Our favorite 3* hotel is Hotel Antigua Miraflores with a perfect location and unique design.
Honeymoon hotels in Cusco
The Incan capital offers some of the most atmospheric accommodation in Peru, blending Inca heritage, colonial history and modern comfort. Many properties are set in restored mansions or historic casonas, featuring peaceful courtyards, stone archways and elegant Andean design elements. Here we recommend the San Blas district (you have to get used to walking up hills and steps) or the center close to Plaza de Armas. Our guide on the best Cusco hotels for all budgets give you a great overview of all types of accommodations.
Our favorite 4* overnight stays are the Casa Andina Premium and Ananay Quinta San Blas, and if you are looking for amazing luxury overnight stays, consider the Casa Cartagena or Inkaterra La Casona.
In Mancora: DCO Suites
The DCO Suites, Lounge & Spa in Mancora is a contemporary boutique beach hotel with its own personality and elegance. The location is amazing and each space has a view to the Pacific Ocean with direct access to the beach. Its design and architecture are quite impressive and chic, as well as the unique characteristics and additional services, such as the Gourmet Restaurant DCO, the beach lounge and terrace with stunning beach views.
Romantic Hotels in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town)
The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel in Aguas Calientes is a unique luxury hotel with a beautifully tropical jungle atmosphere. This luxury accommodation consists of 83 casitas and small buildings that are connected by stone pathways in the Andean cloud forest. It is a perfect integration with the natural environment, where 214 bird species can be found. You can explore their in-house excursions, the Unu Spa, visit the orchid garden and enjoy your meals with stunning views of the Vilcanota River at their first-class restaurant.
Read our blog post on luxury hotels in Machu Picchu where you can choose the hotel that suits you the best.
In the Sacred Valley: Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness
The Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness is an old colonial hacienda located in Urubamba, just one and a half hours from Cusco. The UNNO Spa offers different wellness services, combining traditional knowledge of the Sacred Valley, alternative medicine and the latest cosmetic technology. Its location allows you to fully relax far away from the noisy cities, surrounded by beautiful landscapes. The area has a lot to offer, such as an outdoor pool and jacuzzi, organic vegetable garden, an orchid garden, a gourmet restaurant, a collection of colonial furniture, and much more!
In the Colca Canyon: Colca Lodge
The Colca Lodge is located on the banks of the Colca River, surrounded by pre-Incan platforms in a magical environment. The rooms have beautiful views of the valley, the garden and patio. It is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes with four hot pools with up to 80°C hot water rich in minerals – definitely the perfect spot for an evening full of relaxation. They also offer other additional services, such as a romantic dinner, a luxurious spa with mountain views, and other activities, like visiting an alpaca farm or the still-active Sanacaya Volcano.
Top 4 Peru Honeymoon Itineraries
At Apus Peru, we take immense pride in our role as a distinguished travel agency specializing in crafting extraordinary Peru itineraries. With our wealth of experience and expertise, we have meticulously hand-picked the most captivating and romantic destinations, as well as curated the most exhilarating experiences, to bring your dream honeymoon to life. Check out these four Peru honeymoon tour packages; each one promises to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Honeymoon Package #1: Mountain Adventure
Are you a trekking lover and adventurer? Then an adventure honeymoon in Peru’s Andean mountains is perfect for you! Explore Cusco and Machu Picchu, as well as other archaeological sites, venture into the Sacred Valley, trek the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, or experience the majestic beauty of the Cordillera Blanca, while enjoying luxury comfort with boutique hotels and exclusive services on your ultimate adventure vacation in Peru.
10-Day Peru Travel package:
- Day 1: Arrive in Cusco and explore the city’s ancient ruins and beautiful cobblestone streets.
- Days 2-3: Journey to the Sacred Valley alongside the Urubamba river and visit of traditional Andean communities.
- Day 4-6: Embark on the iconic Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu.
- Day 7: Discover the citadel of Machu Picchu and enjoy the stunning views.
- Day 8 & 9: Engage in a thrilling day trip like horseback riding, mountain biking, or visit the famous Rainbow Mountain.
- Day 10: Depart from Peru.
Travel Program #2: Sun, Sea & Sand
Or are you dreaming of a honeymoon where you can bask in the sun, and let the gentle ocean breeze whisk away your worries? Forget about Galapagos Islands! The white beaches of the Peruvian coast is the perfect place for you. Enjoy unforgettable moments in ultimate relaxation throughout your romantic luxury Peru honeymoon.
Tour program:
- Day 1: Arrive in Lima and fly to Mancora, in the far north of Peru
- Day 2-4: Relax on the pristine beaches of Mancora, indulging in spa treatments and water sports.
- Day 5: Take a romantic sunset cruise along the coast, savoring the stunning views.
- Day 6: Explore nearby attractions like Punta Sal or the vibrant town of Zorritos before returning to Lima
- Day 7: Depart from Lima.
Travel program #3: Classic Peru
You can also embark on a classic Peru honeymoon and discover the country’s rich history ruins, and natural wonders. Here’s a travel inspiration:
Tour program:
- Day 1: Arrive in Peru’s capital, and private transfer to a luxury hotel in the trendy district of Miraflores.
- Day 2: Explore the historic center, visit the impressive Plaza Mayor, and indulge in the renowned Peruvian local cuisine.
- Day 3: Fly to Cusco and spend the day with a romantic stroll around the Plaza de Armas and San Blas.
- Day 4: Embark on the scenic Belmond Hiram Bingham train to Aguas Calientes and visit the majestic Machu Picchu. Explore Huayna Picchu and revel in the breathtaking vistas.
- Day 5: Discover the scenic Sacred Valley, visiting the Pisac Market and the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo with a local guide
- Day 6: Enjoy your ride back to the city of Cusco and visit ancient sites like Sacsayhuaman and Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun.
- Day 7: Depart from Cusco.
Travel program #4: Tropical Getaway
Indulge in a romantic getaway that combines the enchantment of the tropical rainforest with rustic luxury. Here’s a suggested 7-day tour package:
Program description:
- Day 1: Arrive in the capital of Peru and transfer to a luxury hotel at sea level.
- Day 2: Explore the historic center of Lima, visiting sites like the main square and indulging in exquisite cuisine.
- Day 3: Choose your Amazon adventure: Begin in either in the city of Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado. In Iquitos, embrace the vibrant city life, while in Puerto Maldonado, immerse yourself in the serene Tambopata National Reserve. Check into a secluded eco-lodge, surrounded by lush nature, and embark on a memorable journey.
- Day 4: Discover the wonders of the rainforest with guided Amazon jungle treks, wildlife spotting, and canoe rides along the winding rivers.
- Day 5: Enjoy a romantic picnic amidst the lush greenery of the rainforest or indulge in a couple’s spa treatment for ultimate relaxation.
- Day 6: Return to Lima and spend the day exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, shopping for artisanal crafts, and enjoying a romantic dinner with live music.
- Day 7: Depart from Lima, cherishing the memories of your romantic holiday in Peru’s captivating Amazon rainforest.
How to Plan Your Ultimate Peru Honeymoon Guide
As you can see, there are endless options for your honeymoon in Peru. From laying on the beach, exploring the Amazon, visiting Machu Picchu to hiking along the Andes Mountains. If you are not sure which activities and places you want to go to Peru, just send us a message. Our expert travel team can help you out!
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