Just Back From: Peru (beyond Machu Picchu)
SmartFlyer advisors weigh in on what’s new, what’s next, and what’s misunderstood about this bucket list destination
A handful of SmartFlyer travel advisors just returned from Peru—some fresh off attending a Latin America-focused tradeshow, while others were on scouting trips through the Sacred Valley, Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and the Peruvian Amazon. What did we find? Peru is a place that’s shedding its one-note “adventure-seeker” perception in favor of a more layered and multi-faceted identity.
From next-gen Amazon cruising to high-design hotels tucked into the Andes, this is Peru reimagined—driven by culture, craftsmanship, and, of course, the kind of natural beauty that stops you in your tracks. Oh, and did we mention the culinary delights? Well beyond Lima’s city limits, the cuisine here alone could take you from thinking Peru is your “once in a lifetime” trip to becoming a return visitor. Without further ado, let’s dive into the trends our SmartFlyer travel advisors are seeing across the country right now.
Peru Isn’t Just for Adventurers Anymore
“People still think Peru is all hiking boots and backpacks,” says New York-based SmartFlyer travel advisor Melissa Rodriguez. “But it’s so much more—world-class food, fashion, wildlife, art, and history.”
Connecticut-based SmartFlyer travel advisor Jennifer Terra Halberg echoes the sentiment, sharing, “It’s the perfect destination for the active, adventurous, and culturally curious traveler—especially those who’ve done South Africa, Morocco, or Costa Rica. It’s also ideal for families with older kids—and the jet lag from North America is nonexistent.”
Who Peru is perfect for:
Bucket-list checkers looking to cross off Machu Picchu
Culture-hungry couples
Active families with older children
Safari-goers looking for their next “big wild”
First time to Peru? We’ve got you covered. Second visit? Here’s what to add.
Starter Itinerary Must-Visit
At least two nights in Lima—and not just in transit
Sacred Valley
Machu Picchu via Vistadome or the Belmond Hiram Bingham train
Cusco
Optional: add a three-night Amazon cruise if timing allows
Second Visit? Go Deeper
Colca Canyon and Puqio’s glamping suites
Lake Titicaca with a stay at Titilaka
Arequipa, Peru’s under-the-radar charmer
Boutique Amazon lodges
Tinahani (opening soon)
Northern beaches (yes, really)
Want to replicate the scouting trip our team recently trialed? Check out our 8-night, 9-day itinerary!
Peru, Reframed: Beyond the Classic Route
If you’ve already done Machu Picchu—or simply want to avoid the crowds—Peru still delivers. The new frontier? Regions like Arequipa, Colca Valley, and Puqio, where striking landscapes and off-the-radar experiences meet meaningful cultural exchange.
Washington D.C.-based SmartFlyer travel advisor Josie Schiavone puts it this way: “Before visiting, I thought Machu Picchu was it. But during my three weeks spent scouting the country, my favorite experiences were away from the crowds—more culture, more connection.”
In Arequipa, SmartFlyer travel advisors stayed at Cirqa, a restored monastery-turned-hotel with exceptional service, striking design, and a serene, historic vibe. “It’s charming, safe, walkable, and full of vibrant local markets,” shares Lindsay Tenukas. “It could be a great place to start a trip—slower paced but still engaging.”
Over in Colca Valley and Puqio, our team explored dramatic natural settings without the crowds. From condor sightings and hidden geysers to luxurious glamping setups and thoughtful local hosts, these areas offered a safari-style sense of discovery, just in the Andes.
Tinahani, a brand-new glamping-style property near the Colca Valley, is opening this week. A blend of Easter Island mystique and Sedona's red rock energy, its striking architecture and remote setting make it one to watch.
Amazon Cruising is Having a Moment
There’s a new wave of luxury on the river. While Aqua Expeditions remains a gold standard, two buzzy new launches—&Beyond and A&K’s Pure Amazon—are expanding the playing field.
After sailing on Aqua Aria for three nights, New York-based SmartFlyer travel advisor Rachel Braylovsky likens an Amazon cruise to safari, sharing, “If you loved the Big Five, the Amazon is just as magical. And there’s no jet lag.” Melissa adds, “Aqua Aria felt like a private yacht—there were only fourteen guests on board during our sailing, which was a major highlight of the trip.”
Jennifer also weighed in, sharing she “was impressed by the level of luxury offered on some of the newer vessels—it shows the demand is growing, and the options are evolving fast.”
Where We Stayed: Advisor-Favorite Peru Hotels
Hotel B, Lima
The art-filled Barranco townhouse everyone’s raving about. London-based SmartFlyer travel advisor Lionel Huntington Brown shares, “I’d fly back to Lima just to eat and stay at Hotel B. It’s that good.”
Ananay Hotels (Lima and Cusco)
“I was shocked by how many beautiful boutique properties there are,” adds Connecticut-based travel advisor Jennifer Terra Halberg. “The Ananay collection in Lima and Cusco blew me away.”
Belmond Palacio Nazarenas (Cusco)
Sophisticated, historic, and walkable to everything. “This place made me fall in love with Cusco,” shared Melissa.
Sol y Luna (Sacred Valley)
A favorite across the board. “It has that perfect blend of luxury, culture, and authenticity. A beautiful first stop,” says Rachel.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel and Sumaq Machu Picchu
Charming and immersive in nature. That said, for clients wanting a sleeker aesthetic, Sumaq is a modern, AC-equipped option nearby.
Titilaka (Lake Titicaca)
Called “the Grand Dame of Andean hospitality,” this property continues to wow with its views, food, and impeccable service. “A perfect fit for couples, families, or multi-gen groups,” says Atlanta-based SmartFlyer travel advisor Maggie Barton.
What We’re Watching
More super-luxe Amazon cruise vessels are hitting the water
Increased demand for second-time Peru itineraries
Mountain lodges, glamping, and luxury rail routes are gaining popularity
Andean’s high-design properties with cultural edge
As Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey-based SmartFlyer travel advisor Elena Borrero put it, “This isn’t a destination you can wing. To really get the most out of it, you need to work with a knowledgeable travel advisor who has strong ground partners who understand the nuances of Peru.”
The Most Misunderstood Thing About Peru?
It’s not just a hike to Machu Picchu. Instead, it’s:
A destination full of wonder—not crowds—if you know where to look
One of the world’s best culinary destinations
A place to connect with some of the most hospitable and gracious people we’ve met
As Maggie put it, “Their love for their country is contagious. It stays with you.”
Need help designing the perfect Peru itinerary?
From riverboats to ruins to rooftop pisco sours in Lima, our SmartFlyer advisors are just back and ready to help your clients go deeper into this dynamic country.
Came for the recs, stayed for the 🦙!
get me back to Peru!!!! 🦙