Peru: Easier than Ever with New BA Flights

Why now is the time to go

British Airways is set to launch flights to the Peruvian capital, Lima, in May, 2016, with three flights a week in summer and two in winter. This will be the first direct air link between the UK and Lima since 1982, and the only direct service from London. That means the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, both incredibly popular tourist destinations, will be more accessible than they have been for over 30 years.

Peru is known for

Peru is perhaps best known as being the jump-off point for those setting off on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. But there's a lot more to this vast country than that - from trekking in the Amazon to surfing on Pacific breaks, or exploring the sand dunes of Huacachina, there's enough adventure here to satisfy even the most inptrepid of tastes. Then there's the food. Ceviche – raw, fresh fish – is Peru’s most famous dish. Guinea pig meat is a regular on the menu, but you may need to drink a few pisco sours (Peru’s flagship cocktail) before you’re ready to attempt that one.

Insider tips

Take the Salkantay Trail instead of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It’s far less commercial and the terrain is more varied – you can walk through rainforest, across farmland, through local villages and over mountains, all in one day. There's also the option to zip-line through some sections of the jungle instead of walking. A trip to the Amazon jungle is a must for incredible wildlife, sunrises and sunsets. Spot crocodiles by night and keep your eye out for sloths in the tree canopy. 

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the mountains and jungle is just after the rainy season, from May until September. Coincidentally, this is a good time to avoid Lima, as the city is usually covered in a thick fog. If you’re more interested in a beach holiday, the summer months are November to March and the coast is at its best in January.

Travel essentials

Currency: Peruvian nuevo sol (US dollars also accepted in many places) Visa required? Not for tourists Plugs: Peru mostly uses the same plug as Europe (round 2-pin plugs) but many sockets will also take a US-style plug. 

Visit the website for Peru’s Tourism Board for more information