Organized tour groups are a good idea for travelers leery of traveling on their own or who long for a hassle-free, action-packed tour. A range of excellent, though often expensive agencies operate in Peru and offer anything from general tours with a bit of soft adventure to well-tailored adventures for trekkers, climbers, bird-watchers, spiritual seekers, or just about any other group.

With the right company, tours can be safe and enlightening, and a great way to make new friends. Common complaints include a lack of flexibility on meals and lodging options, a go-go schedule that allows no time for relaxation, and a large up-front payment.

Before booking, read the fine print and ask a lot of questions. Find out what hotels you are staying in and then check them with this book. Look for hidden expenses like airport transfers, meals, and single rooms if you are traveling alone. Find out who your guide will be and what his or her experience and language skills are. Ask about the size of the group, the average age of the other passengers, and the cancellation policy. Get everything in writing and add up what all the costs would be using this book. Peru is a relatively inexpensive place to travel in and you may be able to do it cheaper on your own.