Getting around Peru is one of the first things you figure out as a visitor or expat. Taxis, metro lines, buses and the unwritten rules locals follow shape your daily routine more than any guidebook.
In Peru, getting around comes down to a few things: combi vans in cities, cruz del sur for long distance, and altitude affects everything.
Informal minibuses with a cobrador (conductor) shouting destinations from the door. Cheap and everywhere. Confusing but effective. Locals will help if you ask.
Tip: In Lima, the Metropolitano BRT is the organized alternative. Get a rechargeable card at stations.
Peru's best bus company. Reclining seats, meals, and movies on overnight routes. Lima to Cusco is 22 hours — or take a 1-hour flight.
Cusco sits at 3,400m. You will feel altitude sickness. Drink coca tea, move slowly, hydrate. Take a day to acclimatize before trekking or sightseeing.