The Best 5 Tour Companies in Peru for 2025
Around 500,000 people visit the ancient Incan citadel each year. This number would be much higher if it weren’t for the mandates put in place to prevent overcrowding. Around 500,000 people visit the ancient Incan citadel each year — a number that would be much higher if it wasn’t for the mandates put in place to prevent overcrowding.
But there’s more to Peru than just Machu Picchu. And the Andes are more than just the Inca Trail.
Peru has a diverse culture and geography (it is the third largest country in the world), so it offers more than travelers think. There is so much more to Peru than just the Sacred Valley. From the great foodie destination of Lima, to the floating island off the Uros, to the Amazonian rainforest to the tombs and pyramids of Batan Grande, to the oasis in the desert of Huacachina. Many of these destinations are easily accessible by the independent traveler who has plenty of time. Budget travelers and those with limited time may find it difficult to navigate Peru. They should opt for a tour. There are many reputable tour companies that offer affordable tours in Peru. This will make your trip easier and allow you to concentrate on the sights, people, culture and history. To help you save time and money, I have compiled a list of some of the best tour operators in Peru. These tours are not as inexpensive as solo travel, but they can help you avoid the hassles of traveling to a foreign land (especially one that is as big and difficult to navigate as Peru). Intrepid Travel
Intrepid runs tours in every corner of the planet and they’re always a solid choice thanks to their focus on sustainability and responsible travel. I have been on several of their tours and they never disappoint. Intrepid not only offers tours to Machu Picchu, but also the Inca Trail and other parts of the country. Their Classic Peru tour (2,057 USD) for example covers many of the highlights in the country including Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca. Intrepid is my first choice for multi-day tours. Every time I book a trip of more than one day, I use Intrepid. You should. They are fantastic!
Book Intrepid Travel Here!
2. Alpaca Expeditions
This Cusco-based company is owned and operated by local Peruvians. Alpaca Expeditions, also known as the “Green Machine,” is committed to sustainability and calls itself a sustainable tour company. Alpaca Expeditions is a highly-rated company for trekking to Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail and other off-the-radar destinations like Salkantay. They also offer “alternative tour” options that include some places not on the radar. If you want to spend a week hiking around the Humantay Blue Lagoon or don’t feel like committing, there is also a one-day trek. There are also trekking tours around the Sacred Valley, including the seven lakes of Ausangate. The classic Inca Trail hike costs $795 USD for four days, while the five-day Choquequirao Trek is $700 USD.
Alpaca Expeditions can be booked here:
3. Choquequirao Trek
The Lost Incan City Choquequirao is accessible via a 2-day trek starting from Cusco. This local tour company is known for hiking to the ruins in the 15th century city, which are a good alternative to the heavily trafficked Machu Picchu (less than 10,000 visitors visit the site each year compared to 2,500 who visit Machu Picchu every day). You can choose to do the four-day classic trek to Choquequirao, which costs $520 USD. Or, you can go on a longer, eight-day hike from Choquequirao up to Machu Picchu, for $1250 USD. You can also combine the two. There are many affordable options available!
Choquequirao Trek is available here:
4. Colca Tours
Located in Arequipa, Colca Tours offers trekking and bus trips to Colca Canyon. This deep ravine is home to ancient villages and is one of the world’s most dramatic canyons. It is one of the world’s deepest canyons, home to the Andean Condor. The views and trekking are incredible and challenging. They also offer bike and horseback tours. Some tours are more adventurous and include rock climbing and rafting. The standard hike for four days is only $150 USD.
Colca Tours can be booked here.
5. Amazonas Explorer
Amazonas Explorer is a private tour company that operates in the Sacred Valley as well as in the Amazon. They organize private group tours that will take you not only to Machu Picchu, but also to many off-the-beaten-path treks in the region. Other activities include e-bikes, white water rafting and other non-trekking activities. They are very knowledgeable, have excellent guides, and speak English fluently. They were featured in Turn Right at Machu Picchu. These tours are great if you are looking to explore on your own or want something off the beaten track. They also work well for large groups who need a tour that is tailored to their needs.
Amazonas Explorer is now available for booking!
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The Peruvian landscape and culture are so diverse that it would be impossible to cover it all in one trip, especially if you’re planning on hiking. Consider a tour if you are short on time. After all, money returns; time does not. Book Your Trip to Peru – Logistical Tips & Tricks
Book your Flight
Use Skyscanner for a cheap flight. My favorite search engine is Skyscanner because it searches websites and airlines all over the world, so I know that no stone will be left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. This is a comprehensive insurance in the event of an emergency. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page to find out which companies you should use when traveling. Looking for the Best Companies for Saving Money?
Check out my resource page to find the best companies for you to use while traveling. Here’s a list of all the companies I use when I travel to save money. You will also save money by using them. Want More Information about Peru? Visit my comprehensive destination guide for Peru to get even more tips on planning your trip!
