Driving in Peru: What to Expect on the Road

Why Driving Is the Best Way to Explore Peru

Peru is a small, mountainous country in South America. Like most of its neighbors, it’s much more interesting to explore by car than on foot.

But — there are a few key things to know before you go. I’ll cover the wild places in the next post. Today’s all about the driving.

Peruvian Drivers — Worse Than in Indonesia

🚘 The drivers. If you’ve driven in Indonesia, you’ve got an idea. Now imagine that - three times worse. If not, do not attempt Peru without your own stunt team.

Funny how neighboring countries can have wildly different driving cultures. Chile, for example, has some of the calmest, most polite drivers in all of Latin America.

From Sea Level to 5,000 Meters — Yes, Really

🌋 Peru is about elevation. Lima and the coast sit at sea level. Cusco and the Sacred Valley? 2,700 meters. Between them — the Andes, with passes around 5,000 meters. Most routes will have you driving high-altitude serpentines or sleeping in remote mountain towns at some point.

My tip: spend a few days at 2,500 meters first - Arequipa is perfect - and bring some oxygen cans. If you run out, stop by any medical clinic for a refill.

Some Places You Just Can’t Drive To

😱 Not everything in Peru is road-trip friendly. Two highlights - Machu Picchu and Iquitos - are completely cut off by mountains or jungle. Machu Picchu also requires booking months in advance. Raise your hand if you plan trips six months ahead! Yeah, not me 😂

More Peru Highlights Coming Soon

Peru truly surprised me. I spent over a month driving through it and loved it. I’ll share my favorite places in the next posts. Stay tuned.