Best Tour Operators in Peru
Why Go with an Operator?
At a time when it’s easy to purchase many entrance tickets, train seats, and hotels rooms from your phone, the question of why you might need a tour operator in Peru is a reasonable one. The reality is, although the tourist infrastructure in Peru is constantly improving, it is still a destination that can be logistically challenging.
There are plenty of good reasons to entrust the details of your Peru travels to a tour company, and convenience and security are high among them. Transportation, on the ground in particular, is best left to the experts who will ensure that you and your belongings get safely to and from each point on your itinerary, as well as straightening things out if something goes wrong or finding last minute alternatives if there are cancellations or mishaps along the route. For many outdoor adventures, such as trekking or a trip into the Amazon rain forest, you will definitely want to be guided. In the case of the Inca Trail, it’s required.
It’s worth noting that licensed tour guides, such as are encountered in Cusco and Machu Picchu, have university degrees in tourism where they learn not just about Peruvian history, but also about the local flora and fauna. Another plus to having a local guide, especially if you do not speak Spanish and/or are on a quick trip, is he or she may be the only Peruvian you really get to talk to, therefore giving you some of the best insight into the modern-day culture of the country.
Who's Who
Whether you purchase a packaged tour for your entire Peru trip or prefer to book shorter itineraries with local outfitters, the decision of which tour operator or operators to use will likely be the most important one you make for your vacation. We’ve compiled a short list of some of the best tour companies operating in Peru, from the big international outfitters to the best local companies, to provide a good range of specializations and budget options. Though you may be reluctant to buy a package directly from a Peruvian company, keep in mind that you may get the same tour you would buy from a U.S. company for considerably less money. If you want to stray from the beaten path, you may have no choice but to book directly with a Peruvian company.
