What to see & do with your IDP in Peru?
With your International Driving Permit in hand, Peru transforms into a massive open-world adventure. From snow-capped peaks to steamy jungles, driving gives you the freedom to chase unforgettable moments on your own terms. Here are some of the most rewarding destinations to explore behind the wheel:
1. The Sacred Valley Road Trip
Start from Cusco and journey through the Sacred Valley, stopping in villages like Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. The roads are winding but paved, and the scenery is postcard-perfect. Having an IDP allows you to rent a car confidently in Cusco and explore these ancient Inca routes without relying on tour buses.
2. The Andean Highlands to Colca Canyon
From Arequipa, drive northeast through remote Andean villages and striking volcanic landscapes. The Colca Canyon—twice as deep as the Grand Canyon—is a surreal destination where condors soar. Along the way, local checkpoints are common, and showing an IDP helps streamline any stops with local authorities.
3. The Panamericana Sur Coastal Drive
This route stretches from Lima down to Paracas and Nazca. Enjoy dune buggy rides, seaside ceviche, and view the mysterious Nazca Lines. The Panamericana is a well-maintained highway, and a rental car with an IDP gives you full freedom to stop wherever curiosity strikes.
4. Jungle Gateway: Tarapoto to Chachapoyas
For seasoned drivers, this is an adventurous drive through lush Amazon fringes. Visit Gocta Falls and the mountaintop fortress of Kuelap. Rental agencies here may request an IDP due to the region’s distance from major urban centers and frequent checkpoints.
5. Lima to Huaraz
A high-altitude drive leading to the Cordillera Blanca mountain range. Explore the Huascarán National Park and its famous turquoise lakes. The route is steep and filled with switchbacks, so a reliable vehicle and proper documentation—including your IDP—are essential.
Wherever your wheels take you, Peru rewards the bold. With an IDP, you won’t just visit the country—you’ll truly explore it.