Cheap Flights to Peru: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

February 20, 2026

Peru is a land of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and incredible history. From the towering peaks of the Andes to the mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu, Peru offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. If you are planning a trip, finding cheap flights to Peru is the first step toward an unforgettable adventure. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know to book affordable flights, plan your itinerary, and make the most of your journey.

Why Visit Peru?

Peru is a country that offers something for everyone. Its appeal lies in its diversity and vibrant culture. Here’s why travelers flock to Peru:

Historical Sites: The world-famous Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, and Nazca Lines are must-see attractions.
Natural Beauty: Explore the Amazon rainforest, Colca Canyon, and Lake Titicaca.
Culinary Delights: Peru is known for its incredible cuisine, including ceviche, lomo saltado, and pisco cocktails.
Adventure Tourism: Hiking, trekking, and exploring off-the-beaten-path trails are popular among adventure seekers.
Cultural Festivals: Experience traditional festivals like Inti Raymi in Cusco and the Fiesta de la Candelaria in Puno.

With so much to see, it’s no wonder travelers are eager to find cheap flights to Peru.

Best Airports in Peru

Knowing the right airports can help you find cheaper flights. The main international airports in Peru include:

Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) – Located in Lima, this is the primary gateway for international travelers. Most international airlines fly here.
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) – Serves Cusco, a hub for travelers heading to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP) – Located in Arequipa, perfect for visiting the Colca Canyon and southern Peru.
Inca Manco Cápac International Airport (JUL) – Located in Juliaca, convenient for reaching Lake Titicaca and Puno.

Booking flights to these airports strategically can save money and optimize your travel experience.

Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Peru

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising comfort. Here are some tried-and-tested strategies to find affordable airfare:

1. Book in Advance

Airfares to Peru tend to rise closer to the departure date. Booking 3 to 6 months in advance is usually the sweet spot for getting the best deals.

2. Be Flexible With Travel Dates

Flight prices fluctuate depending on the season. Avoid peak tourist months such as June to August and December holidays. Flying mid-week rather than weekends can also reduce costs.

3. Use Flight Comparison Websites

Platforms like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights allow you to compare prices across multiple airlines. You can set alerts to get notified when prices drop.

4. Consider Alternative Airports

Flying into smaller airports like Arequipa or Juliaca, rather than Lima, can sometimes be cheaper, especially if you plan to explore southern Peru.

5. Opt for Connecting Flights

Direct flights are convenient but often more expensive. Opting for a short layover in cities like Bogotá, Panama City, or Miami can significantly lower your ticket price.

6. Check Budget Airlines

South American carriers such as Viva Air, Sky Airline, and LATAM often offer competitive rates. Be mindful of luggage fees, which are sometimes not included in the ticket price.

Best Time to Fly to Peru

Timing your trip can have a big impact on flight prices and your travel experience:

Dry Season (May to September): Best for trekking in the Andes, including Machu Picchu. Expect higher prices due to peak tourism.
Wet Season (November to March): Lower flight costs and fewer crowds. Great for Amazon exploration but bring waterproof gear.
Shoulder Seasons (April & October): Ideal balance between good weather and affordable flights.

Flying during the shoulder seasons is usually the smartest choice for budget travelers.

How to Save on International Flights

If you are traveling from the U.S., Europe, or Asia, consider these tips to save money:

Use Nearby Major Airports: For example, flying from Miami or New York to Lima can sometimes be cheaper than departing from smaller airports.
Book Round Trips: Round-trip tickets are often cheaper than two separate one-way flights.
Join Airline Newsletters: Airlines often send exclusive deals and discount codes to subscribers.
Use Travel Rewards: Frequent flyer miles, credit card points, and travel rewards programs can offset costs significantly.
Check for Student and Youth Discounts: Some airlines offer discounted fares for students and travelers under 26.

Domestic Flights in Peru

Once you arrive in Peru, domestic flights are often the most efficient way to travel long distances:

Lima to Cusco: Essential for visiting Machu Picchu. Multiple flights daily.
Lima to Arequipa: Convenient for exploring southern Peru and Colca Canyon.
Cusco to Puerto Maldonado: Gateway to the Amazon rainforest.
Lima to Trujillo or Chiclayo: Ideal for exploring northern Peru’s archaeological sites.

Booking domestic flights in advance can help you save money and secure better schedules.

Alternative Travel Options

While flights are the fastest way to cover long distances, Peru offers alternative modes of travel:

Buses: Comfortable long-distance buses like Cruz del Sur and Oltursa connect major cities. They are affordable and safe.
Trains: PeruRail and Inca Rail operate scenic routes to Machu Picchu from Cusco.
Shared Vans and Minibuses: Popular for regional travel in the Andes, especially if you want an authentic local experience.

Popular Destinations Accessible via Cheap Flights

Knowing where flights can take you helps plan a cost-effective trip:

1. Lima

Peru’s capital is a mix of modern architecture and colonial charm. Explore Miraflores, Barranco, and the historic center.

2. Cusco and Machu Picchu

Cusco is the starting point for trekking to Machu Picchu. Flights to Cusco are frequent, and early bookings can be affordable.

3. Arequipa

Known as the “White City,” Arequipa is famous for its stunning architecture and nearby Colca Canyon.

4. Puerto Maldonado

A gateway to the Amazon rainforest, Puerto Maldonado is accessible via flights from Lima.

5. Trujillo and Chiclayo

Northern Peru’s archaeological sites, including Chan Chan and the Lord of Sipán, are easily reached by air.

Booking Your Cheap Flights to Peru: Step by Step

Research Flights: Use comparison websites to check multiple options.
Choose Dates: Be flexible with travel dates for the best deals.
Select Airports: Consider alternatives like Arequipa or Juliaca.
Check Airlines: Compare budget and full-service carriers.
Book Early: Secure your tickets 3–6 months in advance.
Monitor Prices: Set price alerts and watch for flash sales.
Confirm Luggage Policies: Avoid unexpected fees by checking baggage rules.

Additional Tips for Budget Travelers

Travel Light: Avoid extra luggage fees by packing minimally.
Sign Up for Airline Miles Programs: Accumulate points for future savings.
Consider Stopovers: Some airlines offer free stopovers in cities like Panama City or Bogotá, allowing for an extra mini-trip.
Use Travel Apps: Apps like Hopper and Skyscanner can predict flight price trends.

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Conclusion

Finding cheap flights to Peru is possible with the right strategy. By booking in advance, remaining flexible with dates, and exploring alternative airports, you can significantly reduce your travel costs. Once in Peru, you’ll have access to some of the most breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and world-famous historical sites. Whether you are trekking the Andes, exploring the Amazon, or immersing yourself in Peruvian culture, careful planning and smart flight booking will ensure your trip is both affordable and unforgettable.

Your adventure to Peru starts with the right flight — book wisely, pack light, and get ready for an experience of a lifetime.

FAQ – Cheap Flights to Peru

1. What is the cheapest time to fly to Peru?
The most affordable months are during the wet season, from November to March, or during shoulder months like April and October.

2. Which airport should I fly into for Machu Picchu?
Cusco’s Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) is the closest major airport for Machu Picchu.

3. How can I find cheap flights to Peru?
Book 3–6 months in advance, use flight comparison websites, be flexible with travel dates, and consider budget airlines.

4. Are there budget airlines in Peru?
Yes. Airlines like Viva Air, Sky Airline, and LATAM offer competitive rates on domestic and international routes.

5. Can I use alternative airports to save money?
Yes. Airports like Arequipa (AQP) or Juliaca (JUL) can offer cheaper flights depending on your itinerary.

6. Are direct flights more expensive than connecting flights?
Generally, yes. Connecting flights through hubs like Bogotá or Panama City often cost less than direct flights.