Should I fly into Lima or Cusco?

Lima has more flight options and typically cheaper international fares. Cusco is closer to Machu Picchu but has fewer international flights and higher altitude (11,200 feet) that can cause immediate altitude sickness.

Do I need to book domestic flights in Peru in advance?

Yes, especially Lima to Cusco which is heavily traveled by tourists. Book domestic flights when you book international—they often sell out during peak season and last-minute prices are expensive.

What's the baggage situation for adventure gear?

International flights typically allow standard 50lb checked bags. But domestic flights within Peru often have 15kg (33lb) limits and charge heavily for excess. Pack light or plan to rent gear locally.

Are there any seasonal flight restrictions?

Weather can close Cusco airport during rainy season (December-March), causing delays and cancellations. Always have backup plans and consider travel insurance for weather-related disruptions.

How to Book Flights to Peru

Book flights to Lima (LIM) or Cusco (CUZ) 2-3 months ahead for best prices. Use Google Flights or Skyscanner to compare, book directly with airlines when possible, and consider flying mid-week for cheaper fares. Expect $400-800 from the US, $600-1200 from Europe.

Choose your gateway city. Lima (LIM) is the main international hub with the most flight options and typically cheapest fares. Cusco (CUZ) has some direct international flights but fewer options. If visiting Machu Picchu, you can fly direct to Cusco or connect through Lima.
Search with flexible dates. Use Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak with flexible date options. Tuesday and Wednesday departures are typically 15-20% cheaper than weekend flights. Avoid Peruvian holidays like Fiestas Patrias (July 28-29) when prices spike.
Book 8-12 weeks ahead. Sweet spot for international flights to Peru is 2-3 months in advance. Prices tend to rise sharply 6 weeks before departure. For peak season (June-August), book 3-4 months ahead.
Consider routing through major hubs. From North America: Route through Miami (AA), Houston (United), or Mexico City (Aeromexico). From Europe: Madrid (Iberia) or Amsterdam (KLM). These hubs often have better prices than direct routing.
Book directly with the airline. Once you find the best price on search engines, check the airline's website directly. Often the same price with better customer service if issues arise. Major carriers to Peru include LATAM, Avianca, and American.
Check baggage policies. International flights to Peru typically include one checked bag, but verify before booking. If planning trekking, confirm weight limits—some domestic connections within Peru have strict 15kg limits.

Should I fly into Lima or Cusco?: Lima has more flight options and typically cheaper international fares. Cusco is closer to Machu Picchu but has fewer international flights and higher altitude (11,200 feet) that can cause immediate altitude sickness.
Do I need to book domestic flights in Peru in advance?: Yes, especially Lima to Cusco which is heavily traveled by tourists. Book domestic flights when you book international—they often sell out during peak season and last-minute prices are expensive.
What's the baggage situation for adventure gear?: International flights typically allow standard 50lb checked bags. But domestic flights within Peru often have 15kg (33lb) limits and charge heavily for excess. Pack light or plan to rent gear locally.
Are there any seasonal flight restrictions?: Weather can close Cusco airport during rainy season (December-March), causing delays and cancellations. Always have backup plans and consider travel insurance for weather-related disruptions.