Peru may be in the tropics, but it offers many climate zones, from arid deserts and towering mountains to lush rainforests. The country's varying altitudes, from sea level to high mountain peaks, create a truly diverse and unique environment.
Northern coastal areas like Máncora and Trujillo are perfect for surfers and beach lovers, with their warm, sunny weather and great waves.
The Andes, home to cities like Cusco and Arequipa, are ideal if you have a soft spot for history and adventures and enjoy exploring ancient Inca cities and hiking countless mountain trails.
The Amazon Basin, with its lush rainforests and incredible wildlife, is a great area for nature enthusiasts and those who enjoy a more off-the-grid lifestyle, and don’t mind the hot and humid conditions.
In this guide, we explore Peru’s coastlines, rainforests, and mountains to help you find the perfect destination that suits your needs and fulfills your dreams.
1. Lima, Pacific Coast
Welcome to Lima, the capital city with gorgeous architecture, rich history, and horrendous traffic! Here, you can find all the modern amenities, top-notch healthcare, several international schools, and a cultural scene that will make your head spin (in a good way).
If you’re into big city life, Lima, with its 10 million residents, is the place to be. You can settle in the "gringo" areas like Miraflores, San Isidro, or Barranco. These neighborhoods are packed with entertainment options, countless eateries, and a surprising number of shopkeepers who speak English—or at least give it a good try.
Or you can choose to live in a more "Peruvian" suburb and find a different kind of charm. Here, food and drink are cheap, the locals are friendly and family-oriented, and there's always a reason to party—whether it’s a birthday, baptism, wedding, or just because it’s Tuesday. One catch: you need to speak Spanish to fully enjoy this experience.
There are plenty of activities around. Lima is located between the world’s second-largest mountain range and the vast Pacific Ocean, so you can quickly escape to the Amazon jungle or enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like paragliding and surfing.
Beaches in Lima, Peru, are generally open year-round. However, the water temperature is cold year-round due to the Humboldt Current, so swimming isn't as popular as sunbathing or surfing. Here are some of the closest options:
- Waikiki Beach: Located in Miraflores, this popular spot is a favorite among surfers. However, the waves are best suited for those with experience.
- Agua Dulce Beach: Also in Miraflores, Agua Dulce offers gentler waves, making it ideal for beginner surfers and bodyboarders. It's also a great spot for sunbathing and various beach activities.
Lima’s diversity is fascinating, with people from all over Peru bringing their unique accents and looks.
If you are looking for an orderly life, you should probably consider Germany or Switzerland. But if you’re up for something adventurous and unconventional, Lima is your place.
Weather and climate: You've got two main flavors: summer, which is all sunshine and fabulousness, and winter, which is basically a big, chilly, humid cloud. If you’re looking for daily weather drama, you’re out of luck here.
Travel: Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Callao, about 11 kilometers (7 miles) from downtown Lima, serves as the main international and domestic airport.
Rent: A very spacious one-bedroom apartment in a modern building in Miraflores can start at around $950. In a slightly less prestigious location, you can find a two- to three-bedroom apartment for $740 to $840.
Real estate: A huge variety of options, from luxury penthouses on the Malecon with sea views that can cost as much as $7.5 mln to a lovely 2-bedroom apartment further away from the coastline for about $80,000.
2. Cusco, Peruvian Andes
This historic city is the gateway to Machu Picchu and offers a mix of traditional Andean culture and modern comforts. There's a big expat community, with plenty of restaurants and shops run by foreigners, making it feel quite international.
Cusco is stunningly beautiful, with layers of Incan, Spanish, and Republican architecture. The Plaza de Armas is lovely, and the bohemian streets of San Blas are fun to explore. San Blas is also one of the most popular neighborhoods for expats in Cusco.
The city is well-known for its lively nightlife, and thanks to the high number of tourists, it buzzes with activity almost every night of the week.
Just outside the city, the Sacred Valley is full of amazing mountain views and hidden valleys.
The city is always buzzing with events and has fantastic restaurants serving Peruvian and international food. There are great hiking trails and endless day trips to archaeological sites, lakes, waterfalls, and mountains. It’s a great spot for retirees and families, with an international school available.
On the downside, at 3,400 meters above sea level, the thin air might leave you breathless at first. The three-month rainy season can feel slightly claustrophobic, and many people head to the coast to escape it and enjoy a bit of a life on a beach.
Weather and climate: The climate is semi-dry and cold. The average annual high is 10.6°C (51°F), and the low is 3.2°C (37°F). The rainy season, from November to March, is a bit warmer, with temperatures usually staying below the high 60s°F but not dropping below 40°F. From May through September, there are very few rainy days, but June and July can see freezing temperatures. Sweaters and raincoats are a sensible investment.
Travel: Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, also known as Cusco Airport (CUZ) is conveniently situated just 5.5 kilometers (3.4 miles) away from the Plaza de Armas, the central square of Cusco.
Rent: A spacious 2-bedroom apartment in a nice area can be rented at around $500. In a slightly less prestigious location, you can find a two- to three-bedroom apartment for $740 to $840.
Real estate: For around $150,000, you can buy a well-built 3-bed apartment in a good neighborhood. $320,000 will get you a really nice modern duplex in the Santa Monica Urbanization, which is a bit further away from the historic center but closer to the airport and the train station Estacion Wanchaq, the starting point for trains to Lake Titicaca.
3. Arequipa, Southwestern Peru, Andes
Known as the "White City" for its stunning colonial architecture, Arequipa offers a mild climate with blue skies and sunshine most days. The city center, being a UNESCO World Heritage site, is beautiful, and the food scene is arguably the best in Peru. It’s like a throwback to Lima many years ago—less crowded and full of attractive spots.
As Peru's second-largest city, Arequipa is a well-served metropolis with breathtaking Andean landscapes, great food, entertaining nightlife, and fantastic gastronomy.
Arequipa provides good healthcare facilities, a few international schools, and shopping is convenient with plenty of supermarkets, local markets, and shopping centers.
The city is surrounded by majestic volcanoes—Chachani, El Misti, and Pichu PichuClimbing these giants is not for the faint of heart, as they soar over 5,000 meters high (with Chachani even exceeding 6,000 meters), but can make a great day adventure.
It is not far from the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve and attracts many tourists for hiking adventures to the Colca Canyon.
You'll find plenty of things to do in Arequipa, from parades to film and food festivals, art exhibits, and live music events.
Weather and climate: an exceptional climate with mild winters and summers that aren't too harsh. It boasts around 300 sunny days a year, with an impressive 4,000 hours of sunshine annually. Temperatures range between 10°C and 25°C (50°F to 77°F). The wet season is from December to March, bringing afternoon clouds and occasional rain. In winter (June and July), it cools down to around 10°C (50°F), but the dry climate makes the cold feel less intense.
Travel: Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP) handles both domestic and international flights and is located about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the city center
Rent: A stunning 250 sq m penthouse in a residential area outside of the center can be rented for $2,000 a month. A regular, well-maintained 3-bed apartment can be found for $700-800 a month.
Real estate: A good-quality 3-bedroom apartment in a good area can be found for around $135,000. A 3-bedroom, well-maintained condo with facilities outside of the historic center can cost about $230,000.
4. Huaraz, Central Peruvian Andes
Pronounced as Waraz, Huaraz is the capital of the Ancash Region and the perfect base for all mountain lovers as it lies right in the middle of the Peruvian Andes, between two mountain ranges.
At 10,000 feet, the thin air might leave you breathless, especially during the first few days as you get used to the altitude.
The central square in Huaraz, with all its shops and street life, is quite a tourist draw. Traditional music and dancing often fill the air, celebrating local culture.
The Central Market is big, chaotic, and smelly, featuring beautiful Quechua women in colorful traditional costumes. You can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to whole chickens and live guinea pigs.
For a good meal and some downtime, head to Parque del Periodista and Parque Ginebra, pedestrian-only areas with great restaurants and a more upscale atmosphere. These parks are some of the best places in Huaraz to enjoy a meal or meet with friends for lunch.
Huaraz also has a couple of really nice coffee shops, like California Cafe and Cafe Andino.
The city has health centers, a police clinic, a general hospital, and numerous shops. Banks and government offices are mostly centered around the Plaza de Armas.
While Huaraz itself has a few attractions, like the Monterrey hot springs (with their high iron content giving a murky appearance), the real appeal lies outside the city. The surrounding areas offer incredible trekking opportunities, such as the Quilquihuanca Valley, various trails in Huascarán National Park, and, of course, Laguna 69, one of Peru’s most stunning natural wonders known for its striking Gatorade-blue waters.
Huaraz is perfect for adventure lovers and hiking enthusiasts looking to explore the Peruvian Andes.
However, if hiking and mountain climbing aren't your thing, Huaraz might not be the best location for you, as the city's main attractions are its outdoor activities.
Climate and weather: A sub-tropical highland climate, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F) and nighttime temperatures dropping to 0°C (32°F). The average annual temperature is around 13°C (55°F). The rainy season is from October to April.
Travel: The closest airport with international connections to Huaraz is Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima, about 280 kilometers (175 miles) away. From Lima, regular buses travel to Huaraz, and the journey takes approximately 5-7 hours.
Rent: A 2-bedroom apartment costs around $600, and a 3-bedroom house in a nice area costs around $1,500.
Real estate: 2-bed apartments start from $75,000.
5. Trujillo, Peru’s Northern Coast
Known for its beautiful colonial center and archaeological sites, Trujillo combines oceanfront views with good weather all year round. It's a less hectic, non-touristy, working city, safer and more affordable than Lima.
Trujillo has international schools, making it a good option for families. The city is large enough to provide all modern comforts, including good healthcare, shopping, leisure activities, and entertainment.
There is no shortage of shopping options: two large modern malls, plenty of retail stores, and local markets for fresh produce, meat, and fish.
Trujillo offers plenty of activities to keep you entertained. You can visit ancient ruins like Chan Chan, the Huacas of El Sol and La Luna, and the Lord of Sipán. For adventure sports, try sandboarding and surfing. Learning marinera, the traditional dance, is great fun, as well as exploring the Spanish architecture downtown or spending a relaxing day at the beach in Huanchaco.
Huanchaco, about 15 km from Trujillo, is popular with tourists and locals alike and does get crowded. Las Delicias, just 10 minutes south, remains a clean, quiet beach area with many nice homes and apartments.
The most popular neighborhoods with expats are California, El Golf, Palmeras del Golf, San Andrés, Primavera, and Las Quintanas.
Weather and climate: The city experiences mild temperatures, averaging between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F), with minimal rainfall and consistent sunshine and gentle ocean breezes.
Travel: Cap. FAP Carlos Martínez de Pinillos International Airport (TRU) handles both domestic and international flights and is just 9.5 kilometers (around 6 miles) from the city center of Trujillo.
Rent: A 2-bedroom apartment can be found for as cheap as $320-$350. A lovely 2-bedroom apartment in the historic center can be found for around $1,000.
Real estate: A good-quality 3-bedroom apartment can be found for around $85,000. A new, shiny 2-bedroom apartment by El Golf—Trujillo Golf and Country Club Sports Complex can be acquired for around $150,000.
6. Huanchaco, Northern Coast
Huanchaco is a small coastal town near Trujillo, known for its relaxed vibe and excellent surfing spots. It is popular with surfers and expats looking for an affordable beachside community close to a big city.
The town provides a quieter lifestyle while still being conveniently close to Trujillo's amenities, such as malls, supermarkets, good restaurants, and solid infrastructure. It’s easy to reach by bus, with regular buses and collectives running from Trujillo to Huanchaco.
It’s all about quiet strolls along the beach lined with traditional reed boats, delicious fresh seafood, small local markets where you can get fresh produce for your cooking, local street food treats, and drinks with friends in the evenings. The sunsets are a mass event, and the slow-paced, leisurely lifestyle resembles the Italian "Dolce Niente" (sweet doing nothing). If this resonates with you, Huanchaco is your kind of place.
It’s a safe and serene place. While it’s on the edge of a desert and not particularly scenic, the nearby mountains are very nice.
The town's activities and businesses are concentrated in the small traditional beachside section, with plenty of restaurants offering set meals with ceviche and an Inca Cola, often accompanied by fabulous sea views and a pisco sour.
Huanchaco is not a party town. It has limited nightlife options, but there are nice places to get a cocktail any day of the week. Weekends feature live music and busy dance floors. Activities include surfing, sandboarding, visiting ruins (Chan Chan is a must), and hanging out on the pier. For more excitement and entertainment, Trujillo is close by.
Weather and climate: The climate in Huanchaco is perfect, with temperatures around 70°F (21°C) most of the year, plus or minus ten degrees. On a hot summer day, it might reach 80°F (27°C), and on a cool winter night, it can dip into the high 50s°F (14-15°C). No air conditioning or central heating is necessary, and it almost never rains, with less than an inch of rainfall per year.
Travel: Captain FAP Carlos Martínez de Pinillos International Airport (TRU) in Trujillo is the closest international airport that offers both domestic and international flights.
Rent: A 2-bed apartment can be rented starting from $500. For $1,000, you can find a really nice 2-bed beachfront apartment.
Real estate: A good size 2-bed apartment will cost you around $80,000.
7. Piura, Northern Coast
Looking for a warm climate on the coast where you can swim in the ocean and enjoy a coastal lifestyle? Welcome to Piura in northern Peru.
Piura is famous for its warm climate and beautiful beaches nearby. Strictly speaking, it’s not a coastal city, as the nearest beach town is 45 minutes drive away. This and the fact it is surrounded by the Sechura Desert makes Piura the hottest city in Peru.
The atmosphere here is laid-back, and there's a growing expat community with everything conveniently within walking distance. As in many Peruvian cities, the Plaza de Armas is the heart of Piura.
Piura is artistic and cultured, with numerous art galleries and cultural spaces. It's also a youthful city with the National University of Piura and the Universidad de Piura, which attract students from all over and keep the nightlife lively.
Once the sun sets, the city’s bars, clubs, and live music venues open their doors for a night of entertainment. While it’s great, make sure not to rent an apartment above such an establishment if you value your beauty sleep (or any sleep at all).
Seafood is great here, with fresh catches available every day at Mercado de Piura. Peru’s northern beaches (the best in the country) are within a short drive, like the white-sand beach of Colán, and the popular spots Mancora and Punta Sal. The ocean here stays warm year-round, between 76–82˚F (24.5–28˚C), perfect for swimming.
For adventure seekers, the Sechura Desert offers sandboarding, dune buggy rides, and a unique desert ecosystem to explore. You can also visit archaeological sites like Huaca de la Luna and Sitio Arqueológico Cerro Baúl. With traditional handicraft markets and various festivals throughout the year, there’s always something to do in Piura.
It’s a well-serviced city with healthcare facilities, private schools, and other amenities, so it is a good option for everyone - retirees, families, or digital nomads.
Weather and climate: A hot desert climate with annual rainfall of 391mm, ranging from a minimum of 3mm in August to a maximum of 134mm in March. The city's yearly average temperature is 25.92ºC (78.66ºF), which is 8.29% higher than Peru's average.
Travel: Capitán FAP Guillermo Concha Iberico International Airport (PIU) in Piura handles domestic and some international flights. For more options, connect through Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima.
Rent: A nice 2-bed apartment outside the city center can be rented for about $500. A budget of $1,600 puts you in a house territory with a sizable plot of land in one of the residential areas not far from the center.
Real estate: A spacious 2-bed apartment in the central area can cost around $80,000. Or for the same price you can get a modern 2-bed condo somewhere around Milafrolres Country Club.
8. Máncora, Northern Coast
If a carefree resort-style beach living is what you want, Máncora and its neighboring areas in northern Peru offer good options, from prime surfing spots to relaxing beach towns.
Located about 190 kilometers from Piura, Máncora has transformed from a quaint fishing village into a popular tourist town with great beaches and a typical resort-style nightlife.
With sandy shores and perfect waves, it's a surfer’s destination, especially favored by beginners.
Máncora has all the essentials: ATMs, laundries, banks, police, a small hospital, and small supermarkets. The main street, Avenida Piura, is lined with restaurants and cafes, while the bars fuel a lively and fun nightlife.
For a nice day out, visit the Poza de Barro hot springs and mud baths southeast of the city. You can also go whale watching by heading to the El Ñuro pier at 6 am and hopping on a tourist boat. Another thrilling experience is snorkeling with giant tortoises at Los Organos near Vichayito Beach.
For a quieter retreat, head to Las Pocitas, a neighboring beach just three kilometers away. It's a peaceful spot where you can relax under palm trees and enjoy the turquoise sea.
In general, Máncora is a typical and busy seaside resort that caters a lot to tourists and visitors and less so to functional daily living. You might find that certain things are lacking (like a good internet connection), but the sun and waves are always aplenty!
Climate and weather: A semi-tropical, dry climate is the result of the cold Humboldt Current from the south and the warm Equatorial (El Niño) current from the north. With more than 300 sunny days annually, temperatures range from 21°C to 34°C (70°F to 93°F), with mild southern winds and not much rain.
Between December and April, the water stays between 22°C and 26°C (72°F to 79°F). For the rest of the year, it ranges from 18°C to 21°C (64°F to 70°F).
Travel: It’s a bit of a trip, as the closest international airport to Máncora is Capitán FAP Guillermo Concha Iberico International Airport (PIU) in Piura, approximately 190 kilometers (118 miles) away. There are several direct buses from Máncora to Piura. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.
Rent: A luxury 2-bed apartment with a swimming pool close to the waterfront can be rented for $1,500 a month.
Real estate: A 200 sq m beachfront apartment in Las Pocitas can cost about $210,000, while a beautiful 2-bed apartment in a private condominium in Vichayito can be bought for around $150,000.
9. Pimentel, Northern Coast
Pimentel, a small beach town on the northern coast between Trujillo and Piura, is a popular tourist destination.
The best part about living here is that you can enjoy a typical beach lifestyle while being very close to Chiclayo, the fourth-largest city in the country and the capital of the Lambayeque region.
Just over a 20-minute drive from Pimentel, Chiclayo is a fully functional city with all the necessary facilities and amenities, including hospitals, shopping malls, and even San Augustin private school, which offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
Pimentel stands out as the most upscale beach town near Chiclayo. It features a long pier and a wide malecon flanked by luxurious, glass-fronted homes. The town has a long stretch of white sand beach, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and sometimes surfing (not very often, as the waves are generally very gentle).
Along the beach, you'll find restaurants and bars with stunning ocean views. The sunset over the beach is stunning!
It does sound ideal, but, like many popular tourist spots, Pimentel has some drawbacks, including limited infrastructure. There are cafes and restaurants, a bank with an ATM, bakeries and a farmers market, and little souvenir shops, but when it comes to high-speed internet, hospitals, and shopping malls,
As a typical resort destination, it gets quite busy from December to March when the weather is at its finest. During this peak season, you can expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Climate and weather: A semi-arid climate with very little rainfall year-round. Temperatures are usually pleasant, averaging a high of 75°F (24°C) and a low of 63°F (17°C), with a gentle breeze. Water temperatures peak between 72 to 82°F (22 to 28°C) in February and are coldest between 61 to 72°F (16 to 22°C) in September.
Travel: Capitán FAP José A. Quiñones Gonzales International Airport (CIX) in Chiclayo has both domestic and some international flights.
Rent: You can rent a nice 3-bed apartment right on the Malecon with sea views for $650.
Real estate: A well-kept 2-bed apartment can cost between $45,000 and $65,000. For $90,000, you can get an amazing property with sea views.
10. Tarapoto, Northern Peru, Amazon Cloud Forest
Tarapoto, a mid-sized town in the Amazon region, is known for its lush landscapes and waterfalls.
Though the town itself lacks sights and colonial architecture, it is becoming increasingly popular among expats thanks to its beautiful surrounding landscapes, including waterfalls and lagoons.
The expat community in Tarapoto is varied; some retirees, some entrepreneurs, and others split their time between Peru and their home countries.
Living in Tarapoto is very affordable. If you live near the Plaza, you're close to everything. You can shop at El Mercadillo, the local market just a 2-minute drive from the city center, or El Mercado in the center itself.
Tarapoto has a lively nightlife. Just two blocks up from the main square is Calle de las Piedras (Street of Stones), lined with bars and restaurants. And there are numerous disco clubs on the street leading to the Morales district.
Day-to-day living is comfortable enough - all the immediate services are here, including health centers, a regional hospital, shops, banks, etc. Tarapoto is also home to the Universidad Nacional de San Martín, a leading research university for rainforest biodiversity, which attracts international students.
But the best attractions are undoubtedly outside the city: trekking paths, beautiful lagunas, viewpoints and waterfalls. Tarapoto is perfect for those who love bathing in natural waters, with popular waterfalls like Ahuashiyacu Falls along the 5N road.
For sports and relaxation, there are many exclusive clubs with swimming pools, activities, and restaurants. Villa Autonoma Park, a tranquil area in a forest by a river, offers simple trekking options to viewpoints like Taytamaki (1 hour) and further up to Mirador Wayra or El Gavilan.
In short, it’s a perfect place if you enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, a connection to nature, and are not bothered by the lack of architectural refinement or urban sophistication.
Weather and climate: A tropical, very hot all year round with average highs ranging from 29°C to 32°C (84°F to 90°F) and average lows between 19°C and 22°C (66°F to 72°F).
Travel: Tarapoto Airport (TPP) primarily handles domestic flights to major airports in Peru, with frequent flights to Lima, Cusco, and other major cities.
Rent: It is possible to rent a well-kept 2-bed apartment in a nice area for around $500-700.
Real estate: A typical local house in the city can start from $100,000. For the wow factor, venture out of the city. There are some stunning properties within a 20-30 min drive with swimming pools and amazing views that can be bought for around $160,000.
Summary
Each region of Peru offers its own unique flavor of life. From the buzz and chaos of Lima to the mountain adventures in the Andean towns, to surfing the waves on the northern coast, to exploring the jungles of the Amazon—Peru has it all. Whatever your preference, Peru delivers.
FAQs about the best places to live in Peru
Can you live in Peru without learning Spanish?
If you are planning to live in Peru without learning Spanish, your best bet is to stick to the "gringo" areas where English is more commonly spoken, and the Tourist Police operates in English: Miraflores in Lima, Cusco, Máncora, Arequipa.
Outside of tourist hotspots, you'll find it challenging to communicate without Spanish. Peru has two official languages, Spanish and Quechua, and government services are only available in those languages. Also, your life will become more enriched if you just make an effort and learn at least some basic conversational Spanish.
What is the most affordable expat location in Peru?
Trujillo is a fantastic spot for expats looking to stretch their budget without sacrificing quality of life. The cost of living is lower than in bigger cities like Lima, with affordable housing and all the amenities you need. The mild climate means you won't be spending much on heating or cooling, and the city's rich cultural scene, complete with historical sites and beautiful beaches, keeps life interesting. If you're looking for a place that offers great value and a balanced lifestyle, Trujillo could be your perfect new home.
Which is the most popular expat location in Peru?
The most popular location for expats in Peru is Lima, particularly the districts of Miraflores, San Isidro, and La Molina. For families, these areas offer excellent international schools, safety, modern amenities, and numerous parks and recreational facilities. For retirees, these areas provide a balanced lifestyle with modern conveniences, safety, and a good community.
Which location in Peru has a mild climate all year round?
Arequipa offers a mild climate year-round. Located in southern Peru, Arequipa enjoys comfortable temperatures with average highs ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and cooler evenings. The city's pleasant weather, combined with its beautiful colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning mountain views, makes Arequipa a desirable location for those seeking a temperate climate throughout the year.
Where in Peru is the best spot for surf enthusiasts?
For surf enthusiasts, the best spot in Peru is Máncora on the northern coast. Máncora is renowned for its consistent waves, warm waters, and laid-back beach vibe. It offers a variety of surf breaks suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced surfers.
You might find useful:
- How To Retire To Peru - a detailed guide for expats on retiring to Peru
- Living In Peru - The Expat Guide
