Digital Nomads – 5 Best Places in Peru
The 5 Best Places for Digital Nomads in Peru
Are you considering Peru as your next digital nomad destination? This article will guide you through the top five locations perfect for digital nomads in Peru. With reliable internet connectivity, these places promise an exciting work-life experience.
No matter if you’re after affordable living in Peru or looking for digital nomad communities, our list has you covered. You’ll find detailed insights on where to set up your base, the best times to visit and what each destination offers to ensure you can work efficiently and enjoy the adventure.
Heya! I’m Juan, I’m a recent newcomer to the travel scene but I am loving every minute of it. I am eager to share my stories and experiences as I go 🙂
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In a Hurry? Here's our Key Info for This Article
- Cusco offers a mix of history and modern amenities, perfect for digital nomads
- Arequipa provides a comfortable climate and reliable internet
- Trujillo is known for its affordable living and culture
- Chiclayo features convenient coworking spaces and markets
- Iquitos gives a unique Amazonian experience with good connectivity
- Puno is ideal for those who enjoy lakeside scenery and quietiity
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What is a Digital Nomad?
A digital nomad is someone who leverages technology to work remotely while exploring different parts of the world. You’re not tied to one location, allowing the freedom to live in places that inspire you and with you might find yourself working from a café in Bali one month and a coworking space in Barcelona the next. Many digital nomads choose their destinations based on factors like cost of living, internet speed and community vibe. This lifestyle offers a unique mix of work and adventure, making it an attractive option for those looking for flexibility and new experiences. However, being a digital nomad does require some discipline, that’s why a work life balance is so important.
Other Work Remotely in South America
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The 5 Best Places for Digital Nomads in Peru
| Destination | Best for | Best Time to Visit | Average Wifi Speeds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lima | Modern amenities | December to April | 25 Mbps |
| Cusco | Historic sites | May to September | 10 Mbps |
| Arequipa | Cultural experiences | April to October | 15 Mbps |
| Trujillo | Beach life | November to February | 20 Mbps |
| Chiclayo | Archeological sites | December to March | 18 Mbps |
1. Lima – Best for Expats and Digital Nomads
Lima, Peru’s capital, is a city that is modern but does have a deep history to explore, so it’s perfect for history buffs because it offers a mix of colonial architecture, street life and a growing digital nomad scene.
Top Attractions
Lima’s top attractions are a mix of historical, cultural, and natural beauty. The historic center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-see, with its grand Plaza Mayor and the stunning Lima Cathedral. You have to see The Malecón, which is a six-mile stretch of parks along the cliff tops overlooking the Pacific Ocean and offers breathtaking views and is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Don’t miss the Larco Museum, which has an extensive collection of pre-Columbian art, or the Barranco district, known for its bohemian vibe, colorful murals and awesome nightlife and then for surfers, the beaches of Miraflores provide excellent waves almost year-round.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lima is during the summer months from December to April when the weather is warm and dry. However, if you prefer cooler weather, visiting between May and November is ideal, though you may experience the coastal fog known as “La Garúa.”
Local Cuisines
Lima has some great food to try, these are some of our favorites:
– Ceviche: Fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and a hint of chili.
– Lomo Saltado: Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and soy sauce, served with rice and potato fries.
– Anticuchos: Grilled skewers of marinated beef heart, often served with corn and potatoes.
– Picarones: Deep-fried doughnut-like snacks made from squash and sweet potato, drizzled with syrup.
Lima has now got quite an extensive food delivery network, so you can get these meals delivered straight to your door!
Budgeting for Lima
Lima is relatively affordable, so you can expect to spend around $30-$60 per night for basic but decent hotels, then eating at a mid-tier restaurant usually costs around $10-$15 per person, but streetfood is our favorite because it’s delicious and really cheap. This makes Lima a great option for digital nomads looking for affordable living in Peru.
2. Cusco – Gateway to the Incan Empire
Cusco is a high-altitude city that’s perfect for exploring the rest of Peru.
Top Attractions
When visiting Cusco, you will find there is so much to do! The city is most famous for its proximity to Machu Picchu, which is not only one of the wonders but should definitely be on the bucket list. You should definitley check out the Sacred Valley for traditional towns and terraces, then head to Cusco’s Plaza de Armas for the history and the Cathedral. Make sure to hit the Sacsayhuamán ruins if you like Incan architecture, and grab some local food at the San Pedro Market. Peru offers some amazing activities, that could be done on your time off.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, from May to September because these months offer clear skies and easy going temperatures, which is perfect for exploring the great outdoors. However, be prepared for cooler nights, so pack some winter woolies and then the wet season, from November to March, sees fewer tourists and green landscapes, but be ready for potential rain showers but no overcrowding.
Local Cuisines
The food in Cusco is a great mix of old-school flavors and new fusion. Here’s what you should eat while you’re there:
– Cuy (Guinea Pig): A traditional Andean dish, often roasted or fried, served with potatoes and a spicy sauce.
– Lomo Saltado: A stir-fry combining marinated strips of beef, tomatoes, onions, and fried potatoes, typically served with rice.
– Rocoto Relleno: Spicy stuffed peppers filled with a mixture of beef, vegetables, and cheese, then baked to perfection.
– Quinoa Soup: A hearty soup made with quinoa, vegetables, and herbs, perfect for a warming meal after a day of sightseeing.
Budgeting for Cusco
Visiting Cusco can be relatively affordable as accommodation ranges from $10 per night in hostels to $120 per night in mid-range hotels and a meal at a mid-tier restaurant will cost about $10-$15. However, we are always on that street food vibe for a more authentic experience.
You will need to budget for your trek up to Machu Picchu, it’s expensive but worth every penny. The guides work hard, so don’t forget to offer your guide a tip as tipping culture in Peru is much appreciated.
3. Arequipa – Best for Scenic Views
Arequipa is a great spot in the mountains for digital nomads. It’s called the ‘White City’ because of the unique stone buildings and the scenery and culture there are top-tier. The views are incredible, so if you are the type of person who needs some peace and quiet to work, this is the place for you!
Top Attractions
Arequipa is packed with cool spots, so to start there’s the Santa Catalina Monastery, which is basically a giant colorful complex and the Plaza de Armas for the best city if wanting an explore. Colca Canyon is nearby if you want deep canyons and condors for a good trek, while the Museo Santuarios Andinos has the famous Juanita mummy. Don’t leave without hitting the Yanahuara viewpoint for the best view of the volcano over the city, there are some lovely restaurants and bars there to enjoy a sundowner overlooking the volcano.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Arequipa is during the dry season, which goes from April to November and these months offer good and warm weather with clear skies, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s historical sites. The rainy season, from December to March, can bring heavy showers, making it less ideal for travel.
Local Cuisines
There are some great food to try in this region, here are some of our favorites:
– Rocoto Relleno: A spicy stuffed pepper filled with minced meat, cheese, and various spices.
– Adobo Arequipeño: A marinated pork stew cooked with chicha de jora (fermented corn drink), garlic, and spices, typically enjoyed as a hearty breakfast.
– Chupe de Camarones: A shrimp soup made with milk, cheese, potatoes, and corn, reflecting the region’s abundant seafood.
– Ocopa Arequipeña: Boiled potatoes served with a spicy peanut and cheese sauce, often accompanied by boiled eggs and olives.
Budgeting for Arequipa
Arequipa offers affordable living in Peru. A mid-tier restaurant meal costs around $10, while budget accommodations range from $20 to $50 per night and this kind of affordability, combined with the city’s charm and digital nomad-friendly amenities, makes it an excellent destination for extended stays.
4. Trujillo – Best for Colonial Charm
Trujillo is perfect for digital nomads who want good weather and a day in the sun. It’s a nice mix of old-school architecture and modern conveniences without being too intense.
Top Attractions
There’s tons to do in Trujillo, like Chan Chan and the Moche pyramids are must-sees for history lovers. The Plaza de Armas is great for a walk to see the colorful colonial buildings, and the Modern Art Museum is worth a look too. We recommend to end your day in Huanchaco because it’s the best spot for surfing and eating seafood by the beach.
Best Time to Visit
Trujillo has pretty great weather year-round, but the best months to visit are May to October. During this period, you’ll experience minimal rainfall and decent temperatures, making it ideal for exploring both the city and squeezing in a beach day.
Local Cuisines
If you really wanting to immerse yourself, here are some must-try dishes:
– Ceviche: Fresh fish marinated in lime juice, spiced with chili, and garnished with onions and cilantro.
– Cabrito con Frijoles: Tender goat meat served with beans, typically seasoned with a mix of local herbs and spices.
– Shambar: A hearty wheat-based soup made with pork, beef, and various legumes, traditionally eaten on Mondays.
– Seco de Cabrito: Slow-cooked goat stew flavored with cilantro and served with rice and beans.
Budgeting for Trujillo
Trujillo is fairly budget-friendly, so you can expect to pay around $30-50 per night for mid-range accommodation and a meal at a decent restaurant will cost approximately $10-15. There is also affordable public transport and reasonably priced attractions, therefore it’s easy to manage your expenses.
5. Chiclayo – Best for Cultural Immersion
Chiclayo is called the ‘City of Friendship’ for a reason. It’s a great place to check out some incredible archaeological sites and soak up the local culture. This city has many expats and could be a great spot to find like minded friends.
Top Attractions
There’s plenty to do in Chiclayo, like checking out the Royal Tombs of Sipán for the history, then head to Pimentel Beach to relax by the water. Mercado Modelo is the place to go for a crazy local market experience, and Bosque de Pómac is perfect if you want to see ruins and nature at the same time. This place is definitely slept on and will be a real add to your trip.
Best Time to Visit
Aim for December to April if you want the best weather for exploring Chiclayo. Just a heads up, it gets really hot, so keep a water bottle on you.
Local Cuisines
Chiclayo has got some really incredible food, here are some foods to order while there:
– Arroz con Pato: A savory dish of rice cooked with duck, cilantro, and beer.
– Ceviche de Pescado: Fresh fish marinated in lime juice, served with onions, corn, and sweet potato.
– Seco de Cabrito: Goat stew cooked with cilantro, beer, and spices, usually served with beans and rice.
– Chinguirito: A dish made from dried and shredded fish, typically served with a mix of lime juice, onions, and spices.
Budgeting for Chiclayo
Chiclayo is quite affordable, so you can expect to spend around $30-$50 per night for mid-tier accommodation and meals at a mid-range restaurant will cost approximately $5-$10 per person. This makes Chiclayo an excellent destination for those looking for affordable living in Peru.
Packing Guides and Tips
Packing for Peru is all about layers. You’ll hit everything from hot deserts to chilly mountain air, so bring light clothes for the heat and a warm jacket for the nights. Most importantly, bring solid walking shoes because you’ll be doing a ton of walking on cobblestones and trails.
You need reliable gear for Peru. Bring a lightweight laptop and a portable charger for sure. The Wi-Fi is great in Lima and Arequipa cafes, but it gets spotty in rural areas, so bring a hotspot as a backup for those ‘must-be-online’ moments. There are some great co-working spaces in the bigger cities, which can help with building a community.
Finally, don’t overlook travel essentials that cater to your health and safety. A small first-aid kit stocked with basics like bandages, antiseptic wipes and any personal medications is crucial, this includes grabbing some travel insurance before arriving. Sun protection is also important, especially in the high-altitude regions where UV exposure can be more intense and of course, always carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Concluding Thoughts
Basically, Peru has everything a digital nomad needs. Whether you want the mountain views of Cusco, the chill architecture of Arequipa, or the surf vibes of Trujillo, it’s all here.
It’s one of the best places to balance a heavy workload with some serious exploration. If you’re looking for your next home base, Peru is a no-brainer. So let’s pack our laptops and get ready for a once in a lifetime trip.
Peru’s Top 5 Places for Digital Nomads FAQ
Lima is often considered the best city for digital nomads due to its modern amenities, reliable internet, and a expat community. You’ll find plenty of coworking spaces and cafes that cater to remote workers. If looking for another place to check out while in South America, check out our extensive guide to being a digital nomad in Brazil.
Generally, the internet is quite reliable in major cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa. However, it’s always a good idea to check the internet speed of your accommodation in advance. In more remote areas, internet reliability can vary.
Yes, cities like Cusco and Arequipa have growing digital nomad communities. You can join local meetups, coworking spaces, and online forums to connect with other digital nomads and exchange tips and experiences. If you are starting your digital nomad life, check out the advice from other digital nomads to get you started.
Peru is relatively affordable. In Lima, you might spend around $1,200-1,500 per month on rent, food, and other essentials. Costs decrease in smaller cities like Cusco or Arequipa, making them ideal for budget-conscious digital nomads.
Peru is generally safe for digital nomads, especially in tourist-friendly cities. However, like any country, it’s important to stay vigilant and take common-sense precautions. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid less populated areas at night.
