If you are travelling to the United States, Mexico or Canada — or are already on your way back — Peru is closer than you might think. Here is how to make the most of it.

Why 2026 Is an Exceptional Year to Visit Peru

In 2026, millions of travellers from Latin America, Europe and the rest of the world will be flying to North America. What many have not yet considered is that Lima is often just one connecting flight away from those same airports — and, in many cases, adding Peru to the itinerary costs less than expected. 

A journey that begins in Los Angeles, New York, Dallas or Miami can be naturally extended to Peru without significantly affecting your budget or the time you have available. The key is knowing how to structure the trip.

The Geography That Makes It Possible

The three host countries in North America — the United States, Mexico and Canada — offer direct or one-stop connections to Lima (LIM), Peru’s main air hub: 

• From Miami: direct flights to Lima in approximately 5 hours (American Airlines, LATAM) 

• From Los Angeles: around 8 to 9 hours direct (LATAM, American Airlines) 

• From Mexico City: direct flights to Lima in approximately 6 hours (Aeromexico, LATAM) 

• From New York (JFK): direct or one-stop flights, between 8 and 10 hours 

• From Toronto or Vancouver: one-stop flights via Miami or Bogotá, between 10 and 12 hours 

Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport is one of the best-connected hubs in South America, and adding it to a longer itinerary often costs less than expected, especially when booked as an open-jaw ticket — flying into one city and out of another. 

How Much Time Do You Need in Peru? 

This is one of the most common questions, and the honest answer depends on how much you want to see. Below is a minimum viable itinerary for visiting Machu Picchu: 

Days	What can you do?
4 days	Lima → Cusco, one day in the Sacred Valley, one day at Machu Picchu, return
5-6 days	Add time to explore Cusco and spend one night in Aguas Calientes
7-10 days	Include Lake Titicaca, the 4-day Inca Trail or southern Peru, including Arequipa and the Colca Canyon

A key logistical point: you need to fly from Lima to Cusco, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. It is not feasible to complete this journey by road in one day. Acclimatisation to the altitude in Cusco, located at 3,400 metres above sea level, takes at least one full day and should not be skipped. Build it into your travel plans from the very beginning.

How to Get to Machu Picchu: The Train Is the Way

Machu Picchu cannot be reached by road. The only motorised access is by train from the Sacred Valley or from Cusco, operated by PeruRail, followed by a bus ride from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of the citadel.

PeruRail operates several daily departures with three main services:

Expedition: The smart choice for independent travellers. Comfortable, reliable and accessible. Ideal for those who prioritise efficiency over luxury.

Vistadome: Panoramic windows and glass-domed carriages turn the Andean landscape into the highlight of the journey. A worthwhile upgrade for first-time visitors to Machu Picchu.

Vistadome Observatory: The most scenic option within the standard range, featuring 360° views and an open-air observation area. Perfect for travellers who believe the journey matters as much as the destination.

Titicaca Train: For those who wish to explore the Peruvian highlands, this service connects Cusco with Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca, one of the most impressive destinations on the continent.

Most travellers depart from Ollantaytambo, in the Sacred Valley, on a journey of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to Aguas Calientes. Those staying in Cusco can also board at Poroy Station, with a journey time of approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Check availability and fares directly at perurail.com. PeruRail’s Best Price Guarantee applies only to purchases made through its official website.

Suggested 7-Day Itinerary: North America + Peru

This itinerary works particularly well for travellers adding Peru as an extension to their North America trip:

Day 1 — Fly from your city of origin in North America to Lima. Evening arrival. Overnight stay in Miraflores or San Isidro. 

Day 2 — Free morning in Lima. Do not skip lunch: Lima is consistently recognised as one of the world’s leading culinary capitals. Afternoon flight to Cusco, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Check in and rest — your acclimatisation begins. 

Day 3 — Full day of acclimatisation in Cusco. Take a short walk to the Plaza de Armas, drink coca tea and avoid strenuous activity. Optional visit to Sacsayhuamán by short taxi ride, with moderate physical effort. 

Day 4 — Excursion to the Sacred Valley. Visit Pisac Market and the fortress of Ollantaytambo. Overnight stay in Ollantaytambo or take an evening train to Aguas Calientes. 

Day 5 — Early bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. Enter at sunrise if your ticket allows. Return to Cusco in the late afternoon or evening. 

Day 6 — Free day in Cusco: explore the San Blas neighbourhood, local markets, take a cooking class or join a weaving workshop. You can also use this day for a quick excursion to Lake Titicaca via a Cusco–Juliaca flight. 

Day 7 — Morning flight from Cusco to Lima. Connect with your next destination. 

Practical Tips for International Travellers

Altitude is real. Cusco sits at 3,400 metres above sea level. Machu Picchu is lower, at 2,430 metres, which helps — but you will pass through Cusco to get there. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol on the first day and take it slowly. 

Book in advance. Both the train and entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, which are purchased separately through the official platform of Peru’s Ministry of Culture, have limited availability. During the high season, from June to August, both can sell out weeks in advance. In 2026, with an expected increase in international travel, it is advisable to book as early as possible. 

Currency. Peru uses the Peruvian Sol (PEN). US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, but paying in Soles often gives you a better exchange rate. ATMs are available in Cusco, Aguas Calientes and Lima. 

Best time to visit. The dry season runs from May to October. This is the busiest period, with clear skies and cool nights. June to August is the most crowded, but also the most reliably beautiful. The rainy season, from November to April, offers greener landscapes and fewer visitors, although Machu Picchu may be covered in mist. 

Travel insurance. Essential for a trip involving altitude, remote access and international connections. Make sure your policy covers high-altitude trekking and medical evacuation. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit Machu Picchu without going through Cusco?

No. All train routes to Machu Picchu depart from the Cusco region, either from Poroy Station in Cusco or from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. Cusco is the unavoidable gateway to Machu Picchu.

How far in advance should I book the train?

It is recommended to book at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance during the high season, from June to August and December to January. For travel in 2026, given the expected increase in international visitors, it is best to book as early as possible. Check availability at perurail.com. 

How much does the train to Machu Picchu cost? 

The price varies depending on the service — Expedition, Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory — as well as the travel date and availability. Check the latest fares directly through PeruRail’s booking engine to see the options available for your travel date.

What is the difference between PeruRail’s train services? 

Expedition is the standard service: comfortable, reliable and efficient. Vistadome offers panoramic windows and a glass-domed carriage to better enjoy the Andean scenery. Vistadome Observatory is the most scenic option, with 360° views throughout the journey. For trips to Lake Titicaca, the Titicaca Train connects Cusco with Puno.

Is it safe to travel to Peru?

Peru is one of South America’s most established tourist destinations. Cusco and Machu Picchu are well prepared for international travellers. In Lima, standard precautions apply as in any large city: avoid displaying valuables and use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps. The train route to Machu Picchu is completely safe. 

Do I need a visa to enter Peru?

Citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia and most Latin American countries do not need a tourist visa for stays of up to 90 days. Always check the latest entry requirements with your country’s foreign office or embassy before travelling. 

What does the Machu Picchu entrance ticket include?

The entrance ticket gives access to one of the circuits of the archaeological sanctuary, from Circuit 1 to Circuit 6, each offering a different route. It is purchased separately from the train ticket through the official platform of Peru’s Ministry of Culture. Optional add-ons include access to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, both of which have very limited availability.