Peru, a land of dramatic landscapes, ancient civilizations, and living traditions, is one of the world’s most compelling travel destinations. From the misty heights of the Andes and the mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu to the lush depths of the Amazon rainforest and the vibrant streets of Lima, Peru offers endless experiences that captivate the imagination. But while group tours and packaged itineraries serve many travelers well, there’s something uniquely special about private tours in Peru—customized journeys designed around your interests, pace, and preferences. In this guide, we explore why private tours stand out, highlight the best experiences Peru has to offer, and offer practical tips for planning your perfect trip.
Why Choose the Best Private Tours in Peru?
When travelers seek depth, flexibility, and exclusivity, private tours rise above the rest. Unlike traditional group tours, private experiences allow you to:
1. Travel at Your Own Pace
Private tours are designed around your rhythm, not a fixed schedule. Whether you want to linger at ancient Inca sites, take extra time for photos, or rest during high altitude days in Cusco, private tours give you control over how you explore.
2. Enjoy Personalized Attention
With a dedicated guide and often private transport, you benefit from in-depth insights, tailored storytelling, and more meaningful interactions with Peru’s culture and history. This makes experiences richer and less rushed, especially at iconic places like Machu Picchu.
3. Access Hidden Gems
Private tours often unlock lesser-known archaeological sites, local communities, and off-the-beaten-path landscapes not typically included in standard packages. You can choose activities ranging from cultural immersion to adventure and wildlife exploration.
4. Flexible Itineraries
Want to add an extra day in the Sacred Valley, explore the Amazon more deeply, or combine Peru with Bolivia or Ecuador? Private tours make multi-destination planning effortless. Companies like Mapi Tour Peru specialize in custom itineraries that stretch across Southern South America.
Top Picks: Best Private Tours in Peru
Here are some of the most unforgettable private tour options that showcase the diversity and wonder of Peru.
1. Private Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley Tours
For many travelers, the highlight of a Peru trip is seeing Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The best private tours in Peru often center around Cusco and the Sacred Valley before ascending to this ancient citadel.
- Sacred Valley Exploration – Journey through incredible Inca sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, and the Maras salt mines with your own guide. This private experience lets you linger at each location and understand the intricate Inca agricultural engineering.
- Machu Picchu Private Visit – Avoid the crowds with early morning access, tailored guides, and options to climb iconic peaks like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views. Many tour operators can combine luxury train travel and exclusive experiences.
Whether you want a one-day private tour or an extended multi-day journey, these tours offer flexibility, comfort, and cultural depth.
2. Private Hiking Adventures (Inca Trail, Salkantay, Lares)
For active travelers craving adventure, private treks through the Andes provide exceptional experiences:
- Private Inca Trail (2–5 days) – Walk the classic Inca Trail with your own guide and support crew, discovering remote ruins and sweeping mountain panoramas. Many private options include premium camping, personal chefs, and exclusive access to key sites en route.
- Salkantay Trek Private Tour – A stunning alternative to the classic Inca Trail, this route crosses high Andean passes and descends through cloud forests to Machu Picchu. With a private guide and personalized logistics, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and flexible trekking experience.
- Lares Valley Trek – For travelers interested in cultural immersion, the Lares trek takes you through traditional Andean villages where Quechua-speaking communities continue age-old weaving traditions and agricultural practices.
These private treks are ideal for adventurous travelers who value independence and deep cultural engagement.
3. Amazon Rainforest Private Expeditions
Peru’s Amazon basin is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Private tours offer an unparalleled way to explore this lush ecosystem:
- Tambopata & Manu Private Tours – Customized explorations of the Amazon rainforest immerse you in tropical wildlife, birdwatching, canopy walks, boat excursions, and encounters with indigenous cultures. Operators like Amazon Tours Peru provide customized journeys deep into Manu National Park.
- Private Jungle Lodges – Stay in eco-lodges where your guide tailors daily excursions to your interests. Whether you’re keen on spotting macaws, caimans, or rare primates, these tours bring you close to nature with expert support.
For nature lovers and wildlife photographers, these are some of the most memorable best private tours in Peru available.
4. Luxury and Cultural Immersion Tours
Beyond hiking and nature adventures, Peru invites visitors to dive into its vibrant heritage and contemporary culture.
- Lima Gourmet & City Culture – Private tours of Lima explore colonial architecture, world-class museums, local markets, and the city’s famed culinary scene. Customized experiences include visits to top restaurants and cooking classes with local chefs.
- Andean Community Stays – Some private tours incorporate stays with local families in small Andean villages, offering deep cultural connections and hands-on experiences with traditional crafts, farming, and cuisine.
- Photography & Theme Tours – Tailored itineraries focus on photography, birdwatching, or food exploration, ensuring you capture the highlights of Peru while learning from expert guides.
Luxury options often include high-end accommodations and exclusive access experiences, perfect for discerning travelers.
How to Choose the Right Private Tour
With countless options available, selecting the ideal private tour depends on your interests, travel style, and time. Here are some tips to guide your choice:
1. Match Tours to Your Interests
Ask yourself what excites you most about Peru. Are you drawn to ancient history and archaeology? Natural landscapes and wildlife? Culture and cuisine? Once you define your priorities, you can narrow down the best private tours to fit those themes.
2. Consider Tour Duration and Pace
Some travelers favor quick highlights over a week, while others want extended multi-region journeys. Discuss your timeline with tour providers to ensure the pace feels right and logistics are seamless.
3. Review Inclusions
Private tours vary in what they include—meals, accommodation, transport, museum fees, and more. A transparent itinerary helps you understand value and avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance
While some tours can be arranged upon arrival in Peru, iconic experiences (like Machu Picchu entry or premium train journeys) often require early planning—especially in high season
5. Choose Local Expertise
Working with locally based operators ensures deeper cultural insights, community support, and often better pricing. Whether a boutique agency or a specialist guide, local expertise enriches your travel experience.
Sample Itinerary Ideas
To spark your imagination, here are a few sample itineraries featuring the best private tours in Peru:
A. Classic Peru Highlights (10 Days)
- Day 1–2: Explore Lima’s highlights and culinary delights.
- Day 3–5: Fly to Cusco, acclimate, and enjoy private Sacred Valley tours.
- Day 6–7: Private Machu Picchu visit with optional Huayna Picchu hike.
- Day 8–10: Amazon rainforest private expedition with guided nature walks.
B. Adventure & Culture (12 Days)
- Days 1–3: Immerse in Cusco’s culture, markets, and colonial sites.
- Days 4–7: Multi-day private Inca Trail or Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu.
- Days 8–10: Lares Valley exploration with community stays.
- Days 11–12: Lake Titicaca private tour and cultural interactions.
C. Off-the-Beaten-Path Discovery (14 Days)
- Days 1–3: Lima and coastal highlights.
- Days 4–6: Sacred Valley private experiences.
- Days 7–9: Fly to Iquitos for Amazon private cruise or lodge stay.
- Days 10–14: Explore northern Peru’s archaeological wonders and natural beauty.
Each of these sample journeys showcases the strength and flexibility of private tours in Peru, letting you blend landscapes, heritage, and adventure.
Final Thoughts
There’s no better way to explore Peru than with a thoughtfully designed private tour tailored to your unique interests. Whether wandering through ancient Inca cities, trekking majestic Andean peaks, or drifting beneath the rainforest canopy, these experiences create vivid memories that group tours can’t match.
From historic wonders and vibrant cultures to breathtaking biodiversity, the best private tours in Peru invite you to discover the country on your terms—deeply, authentically, and memorably.
