Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most treasured historical sites, dating back to the 15th century. Known as the “Lost City of the Incas”, this gem is one of the most familiar icons of the ancient Incan world. Because it was abandoned during the time of the Spanish Conquest, Machu Picchu was only recently discovered as a site rich in Incan culture. Read about the LGBTQ & Gay Travel Guide to Peru bellow
***This is our complete gay travel guide to Peru with all our tips on where to stay, what to see and do for LGBTQ travelers
Machu Picchu is accessible by foot or by rail from Cusco or Aguas Calientes. The Inca Trail will take you directly there, or it might take a few hours in the sunshine so bring your sunscreen! If you plan on traveling in this region during the wet season, (Novemver to March) it might be best to leave a few extra days in case of delays. Otherwise, the dry season (April to September) is a great but busy bet.
There are various sites to see in the park of Machu Picchu. Sun Gate is often visitors’ first experience of the Incan ruins, and the various Temples around the park will leave you absolutely in awe. There are excellent walks and hikes in and around the area so be sure to take advantage of the natural beauty here. Many of them even take you off the beaten path and away from the touristy crowds so you can have a more peaceful Machu Piccu experience. There is no food or beverages allowed inside the park itself, but there are a few concession stands and restaurants nearby to satiate your appetites! Feed your mind, body, and soul at this beautiful vacation spot that will change your perspective of humanity forever.
Gay rights in Peru
Peru doesn’t have the best track record when it comes to LGBTQ rights. Society is very conservative, largely due to the strong influence of the Catholic Church. However, change is very much in the air, thanks to the vigorous efforts of local LGBTQ activists and gay friendly politicians pushing for more progressive laws.
Is Peru safe for gay travelers?
Very much so, yes! Whilst Peru’s record on LGBTQ rights is not as gleaming and fabulous as Argentina’s or Colombia’s, when it comes to welcoming gay travelers, Peru does a pretty decent job!
This all comes down to the fact that tourism is one of Peru’s largest industries. Helped by the fact that it has one of, if not, The most visited attraction in all of South America; Machu Picchu. As a gay couple traveling in Peru, you felt welcomed in all the hotels we stayed at, which included a mix of hostels, luxury hotels and local family owned guesthouses. For us, booking a double bed was never an issue and we never felt we had to justify our sexuality to anyone. Government introduced a comprehensive set of laws that included hate crimes against sexual orientation and gender identity. Since 2016, the right to change legal gender was introduced, which allows transgender people to apply for a gender change without the need for sex reassignment surgery..
Food in Lima, Peru
Lima has a fabulous foodie scene to discover as well as some excellent cooking classes to learn how to make the local cuisine
Lima is well known throughout South America for being a foodie capital, home to some of the greatest restaurants in the world. The best way to get a taster of Lima’s exciting food scene is on a foodie tour. We recommend joining this amazing tour which took us to some of the best restaurants in Miraflores and Barranco. Our tour with them also included a Pisco Sour making session and learning to make a jungle inspired ceviche at Amaz restaurant.
MUST VISIT: Lima Gay Friendly Bars & Nightlife
Legendaris: This is one of those bars that put together the gay atmosphere and the best music of the moment!
Cafe Z: A little piece of charm and chic with artistic tables and chairs, perfect ambiance, and the best coffee in Miraflores.
Lola Bar: For an authentic look into Lima’s gay nightlife, look no further than Lola Bar!.
Best Time to Visit Lima
The best time to visit Peru would be during the winter months. October is the most popular month to visit, especially if you want to make it up to take an excursion to Machu Picchu and Cusco. Summertime, however, is very wet and rainy, which could make the trip up those mountains somewhat hazardous. May-September: these months tend to be dryer and warmer but bussy.
Travel Safety Tips to Travel to Peru
The locals of Peru are known for being warm, welcoming, friendly, and inviting. They embrace tourists and invite them to try the local cuisine, partake in festivities, and guide them around the city. Though the locals are friendly and inviting, that doesn’t mean that one should let their guard down. Like any big city that sees many tourists, petty theft and people who take advantage of tourists can come up. Be mindful of these situations and prepare yourself accordingly. Take advantage of the in-room safes and try not to carry too many personal belongings while exploring the city. Finally, ask the hotel’s concierge about areas to visit and places to avoid. This way, you can have a fun vacation and take in all of the culture, art, and food Peru has to offer
