Peru Hop Review: Is it Really the Best Way to Travel?
This honest Peru Hop Review is no more than that: a review. Peru Hop is in no way involved in the writing of this post. The opinions are our own!
Visiting Peru is an adventure you won’t forget, filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures. Yet, the way you travel there can make all the difference. Enter Peru Hop, a way of navigating Peru’s vast and diverse terrain. It aims to streamline your journey and improve your overall travel experience.
Having been on a journey through Peru with Peru Hop myself, I’ve come to appreciate the unique aspects that set this service apart. I’ve tackled similar adventures across other South American countries without the convenience of Peru Hop, and I can vouch for the significant difference it makes.
My travels have equipped me with valuable insights, allowing me to write this Peru Hop Review from a perspective that’s not just about ticking tourist boxes but diving deep into experiences, engaging with locals, and enjoying the peace of mind that comes from seamless travel.
In this Peru Hop review, I’m excited to share my personal stories, in-depth research, and thoughtful comparisons. Whether you’re wondering if Peru Hop is your ticket to an unforgettable Peruvian adventure, I’m here to share my journey, packed with personal anecdotes and a detailed look at what makes the difference in a travel experience from good to extraordinary.
What is Peru Hop and How Does it Work?
Peru Hop feels like travelling with a friend who knows all the best places in Peru. It offers a hop-on-hop-off bus service that lets you explore the country’s must-see destinations at your own pace.
Imagine customizing your itinerary exactly to your preferences. You decide where to go and how long to stay, making it a personalized adventure. The service is designed with your safety, comfort, and convenience in mind, making it straightforward to navigate, even for those new to Peru.
The idea behind Peru Hop is simple yet effective: to seamlessly connect you to Peru’s top sights. It’s an appealing concept, especially for first-timers or seasoned travellers seeking a hassle-free experience.
However, it’s important to consider this: while the service promises a lot, does it actually deliver? Let’s dive deeper into what makes Peru Hop stand out and whether it indeed lives up to its own hype.
Peru Hop Review: The Itineraries
Peru Hop shines with its variety of itineraries catering to different tastes and time constraints. Whether you’re looking to fill a couple of weeks with as much of Peru as possible or just squeeze in the highlights quickly, they seem to have thought of everything.
Take the “Full South to Cusco” route, for example. It’s practically the ultimate Peru tour, starting in Lima and moving through iconic stops like the beach town of Paracas, the desert oasis Huacachina, and the Nazca Lines. It ends in the historic Inca capital of Cusco, covering practically all the spots one could hope to see in a single trip.
For those pressed for time, the “Get to Cusco Quick” itinerary compresses several key stops into a shorter duration. This is ideal for visitors who want to experience the essence of Peru but have limited time.
What impresses me most about these routes is how much you can actually see and do. Activities like sandboarding in Huacachina or exploring Lake Titicaca by boat offer both thrills and a deeper understanding of the local environment and culture.
Peru Hop appears to do an excellent job at balancing adventure with cultural immersion, ensuring there’s a perfect route for every type of traveller. Whether you’re in for a leisurely journey or an action-packed schedule, they’ve crafted experiences that aim to meet your travel dreams effectively.
Which Route You Should Take
This Peru Hop review is not just informational but also practical! The best route depends on your trip and the type of traveller you are. But having visited all the places on their itineraries, it might be worth sharing my opinion on the different passes:
Full South To Cusco
This is the best option, in my opinion. All of the stops are 100% worth visiting, and the ending in Cusco is great. Leave the best for last! Cusco also has an airport, so you can quickly get back to Lima after your journey through Peru.
If you want to experience Peru fully and have about 10 days (or more) to spend, absolutely get this pass.
To Cusco Without The Lake
The only stop I understand missing out on is Puno. Well, only if you’re a little shorter on time, as this saves you a day. The lake is really cool as it’s the highest navigable lake i the world. The floating villages are also cool to see.
But, if you’re a little short on time, this is a good option.
Get To Cusco Quick
Honestly, if you’re that short on time, just fly. It’s a quick option, and yes, the oasis of Huacachina is cool. But if you want the best experience, I’d fly to Arequipa for a few days and then on to Cusco. Domestic flights in Peru are quite cheap.
Arequipa is beautiful, even if you don’t care about the canyon. We didn’t see Colca Canyon, but we still loved our four days there.
To Cusco Without The Canyon
So, I’d rather miss the lake than Arequipa. To be honest, I don’t see this as a reasonable option. But to each their own, and if you love water but don’t care about Arequipa, this might be for you.
Lima To The Canyon
This pass is ONLY viable if you’re revisiting Peru and have already been to Cusco. I can honestly not see any other reason not to visit Cusco. It’s my favourite place in the world, but I understand that visiting the same place twice can be boring.
So, if you’ve been to Cusco but not to Paracas, Huacachina, Nazca, and Arequipa, this is the pass for you.
Lima To The Lake
An even better option than the above whilst still not going to Cusco. I didn’t find Puno itself that interesting, but visiting Lake Titicaca and the floating villages is amazing. So, if you’re not interested in Cusco for whatever reason but would still like to spend a couple of weeks in Peru, this is your best bet.
Peru Hop Review: The Cost of the Passes
When thinking of the cost of Peru Hop passes, it’s important to weigh their convenience, flexibility, and the experiences they offer. Prices vary significantly between passes, which means both budget-conscious travellers and those willing to invest more in a comprehensive exploration have options to choose from.
Let’s take the “Full South to Cusco” route. It has a higher price because of its length and the experiences it offers. This route is a prime example of getting what you pay for—a thorough journey through Peru’s highlights.
It’s useful to compare the cost of a Peru Hop pass with the total expenses you’d incur booking individual bus tickets and tours and managing the itinerary on your own. The value of Peru Hop becomes apparent when you factor in the time and effort saved, plus the convenience of having all transportation and selected tours arranged for you.
They even pick you up and drop you off at your accommodations, which is incredibly beneficial for those unfamiliar with Peru or the Spanish language.
For many travellers, investing in a Peru Hop pass is more than just a financial consideration. It’s about improving the travel experience—ensuring it is comfortable, safe, and enjoyable.
While the upfront cost may seem steep, the payoff in saved time and reduced hassle can make it a wise choice, especially for those who prioritize ease and efficiency in their travels.
Validity of the passes
One of the standout features of Peru Hop is the exceptional flexibility of their passes, which are valid for one year from the date of purchase. This is particularly good for travellers who prefer to decide their own pace, allowing for unplanned extended stays in nice locations or adjustments due to unexpected changes in travel plans.
The year-long validity caters to those who might want to experience Peru during different seasons or cultural festivals, making sure they can partake in the country’s rich events without feeling rushed. Whether it’s an extra day, week, or even months, the flexibility of the Peru Hop pass enhances its value, making it an appealing choice for both short visits and extended explorations.
This feature significantly contributes to the appeal of choosing Peru Hop, as it accommodates spontaneity and personalization in travel plans. For anyone looking to explore Peru on their terms, the long validity period of the pass is a definite perk worth considering.
Our Peru Hop Experience
Like I said in the intro, Peru Hop sounds great. They’re really selling themselves, but is it actually worth it? We were kind of sceptical at the start. We had done so many different buses in different Latin American countries, and while some were great, we had a fair share of terrible experiences.
Now, we were hopeful Peru Hop would be different. But was it? Here is our experience.
The route
We took the “Lima to Cusco to La Paz” route because Bolivia was next up on our list of countries to visit. And let me tell you, it was one of the best decisions we made on our trip. The route covered all the top destinations in Peru, including Lima, Paracas, Huacachina, Nazca, Arequipa, Puno and Cusco.
This saved us so much time and hassle of trying to figure out how to get from point A to point B on our own. Plus, we got to see so much more of the country than we would have if we travelled alone.
The help with the border crossing into Bolivia was also nice. Although I did speak some Spanish by then, it’s always nice to have a guide who can translate for you.
All the stops on the way were worth a visit. However, we found that the time they recommend in each place is sometimes a little short. But that’s the good thing about Peru Hop’s flexibility. We just changed the itinerary to suit our needs.
The guides
The guides truly made our Peru Hop experience stand out from any other bus service we’ve tried. Each guide we had was not only genuinely pleasant but also knowledgeable about each location we visited.
Their English was great, making communication smooth, and it made sure that all of us on the tour felt included and well-informed. This is a really nice difference from other bus services, where English is not always spoken.
What really struck us was their eagerness to help. Whether it was offering travel tips, recommending the best local bars and restaurants, or just sharing fun anecdotes about the places we were visiting, their enthusiasm was infectious.
Clearly, these guides didn’t just see their roles as jobs but as opportunities to share the beauty and culture of their country with visitors.
The drivers
While we didn’t speak to the drivers, we noticed their driving style.
The drivers at Peru Hop were top-notch throughout our trip. They had multiple drivers for the long rides, making sure everyone was fresh and alert.
This really showed in how carefully they drove. They were super respectful and careful with traffic rules and other people on the road, making us feel safe and looked after.
Their focus on safety and sticking to road manners, all while keeping the trip efficient, really made our journey great. It was clear we were in good hands every step of the way.
The expected arrival times for the buses were usually on-point as well. We were never really late, which is a massive difference from what we were used to at that point. Buses in Latin America sometimes seem to make their arrival times up.
The buses
The comfort and convenience of Peru Hop buses totally blew us away. Each bus came with a toilet, which was a lifesaver on those long stretches between stops. Just a heads-up, though, they were only for number 1s, but that kept them clean and ready for use all trip long.
The buses really nailed comfort, especially on those overnight trips. The seats reclined a lot, so you could actually get some decent sleep. Seriously, stretching out and relaxing made all the difference, and we got to our next spot feeling relatively refreshed and ready to hit the ground running. As far as you can really be refreshed after an overnight bus.
Peru Hop really knows what they’re doing when it comes to making bus travel comfortable. They even provided blankets.
All buses are equipped with USB charging ports, so you can always have juice in your phone for podcasts or music.
Peru Hop Review: The Pros
Peru Hop truly excels in the art and science of road travel. They have mastered blending safety and comfort with the thoughtful things that travellers value. Here’s a closer look at what sets them apart:
Flexibility
The flexibility that Peru Hop offers can not be overstated. They seem to understand exactly what modern travellers want—the freedom to explore at their own pace. Their hop-on hop-off service allows you to disembark at various cities along the route and then board the next bus whenever you’re ready to continue your journey.
This approach frees you from the constraints of a fixed schedule, granting you the freedom to extend your stay in places that interest you or skip those that don’t. For those who want spontaneity in their travels yet appreciate the security and convenience of pre-arranged transport, Peru Hop’s flexibility is invaluable.
Such flexibility improves the travel experience and makes Peru Hop an big part of your adventure, allowing you to tailor your trip to your personal tastes and timelines.
Bonus Perks
Peru Hop doesn’t just stop at getting you from A to B; they add a host of bonus perks that genuinely improve the travel experience.
Accommodation discounts
Finding a good place to stay in unfamiliar places can often be challenging. Peru Hop helps ease this by partnering with a selection of hostels and hotels, providing exclusive discounts to its passengers. This collaboration not only simplifies the process of choosing where to stay but also helps stretch your travel budget further, whether you’re looking for budget hostels or a night of luxury.
These partnerships ensure you’re staying in vetted, traveller-friendly accommodations that understand the needs of Peru Hop passengers, adding a layer of convenience and security to your journey. This aspect of the service is a significant plus, enhancing the overall affordability and comfort of your travel experience.
Another great thing I couldn’t miss in this Peru Hop review.
Tour discounts
Peru Hop doesn’t stop at just securing your overnight stays; they also offer discounts on some of the most popular tours in the region. Dream of flying over the Nazca Lines, sandboarding in Huacachina, or exploring the enigmatic Machu Picchu?
These iconic experiences are made more accessible through Peru Hop’s collaborations with reputable tour operators, allowing you to enjoy these adventures at a reduced cost and with assured quality and safety.
Hostel Pickups and Dropoffs
One of the standout conveniences provided by Peru Hop is the hostel pickup and drop-off service. This feature eliminates the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets or dealing with local transportation systems on your own. Starting and ending your day right at your accommodation’s doorstep simplifies logistics and gives you peace of mind, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your travels.
However, in places like Cusco, where large buses are restricted from entering the historic centre, you must arrange your own transport to the bus terminal. You will be dropped off by a taxi on your way in, but you will have to sort it out yourself on your way out.
Despite this minor inconvenience, the ease of the overall service remains a major benefit, as in our experience, arranging a taxi was straightforward.
Tour bookings
Peru Hop really nails it with how easy it makes booking tours. Whether you’re a planner or someone who goes with the flow, Peru Hop has got you covered.
You can sort out your adventures online in advance, snagging spots on those must-do tours before you even set foot in Peru. And if you’re all about living in the moment?
No problem.
Peru Hop gets the thrill of being spontaneous and lets you book tours right from your bus seat as you head to your next spot. This mix of flexibility and ease ensures your trip is unforgettable and super chill.
Safety
Travelling through Peru can seem daunting, especially as a solo traveller or a first-timer. But with Peru Hop, you’re in good hands.
Their safety standards mean buses are comfortable and secure, with vetted drivers and secure luggage storage. Plus, they keep you informed about local advisories and best safety practices.
This means you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning landscapes rolling by, knowing you’re being looked after every mile of the way. It’s like having a guardian angel who’s also a tour guide – making sure your adventure is as safe as it is amazing.
Convenience
Peru Hop isn’t just about safe and easy tour bookings; they really up the game with their convenience.
Think of door-to-door service during your stay. No more carrying heavy bags through busy streets or trying to figure out the local buses. Peru Hop picks you up right from your place and gets you to where you need to be next, making your trip go from good to awesome.
You get to chill and enjoy all the cool stuff in Peru without sweating the small travel stuff.
Comfort
What’s a Peru Hop review without discussing the comfort of the journey? Peru Hop takes your travel game to a new level; it’s all about comfort. Reclining seats, bathrooms right there when you need them, and chargers for your devices.
Whether you’re snoozing off a day’s worth of adventures or posting your journey online, Peru Hop has your back, ensuring you’re comfy every step of the way. And with aircon, good seats, and your own charging spot, every seat’s like the VIP section.
These cool extras are what make Peru Hop more than just a ride—it’s a key part of your Peru experience.
Social Aspect
Peru Hop is not just a way to get around; it’s all about the awesome social vibes. It’s not just moving from point A to point B; it’s about the stories you’ll swap, the new friends you’ll make, and all the fun you’ll have together on the road.
Choosing Peru Hop means you’re joining a group of fellow adventure-seekers, all pumped to dive into what makes Peruvian culture so special. The bus rides turn into the perfect spot to meet your next travel buddy or add a few more to your group.
Imagine swapping travel hacks, sharing a bite at some cool local spot you just discovered, or jumping into a last-minute adventure together.
Peru Hop Review: The Cons
Even the coolest adventures have their hiccups, right? While Peru Hop totally changes the game when it comes to travelling, it’s only fair to chat about the flip side.
Don’t worry; we’re all about keeping it real and giving you the full scoop so you know exactly what to expect on your epic Peruvian escapade.
It can get busy
Sometimes, Peru Hop is so popular that things can get pretty packed, especially when everyone wants to travel. Picture a bus full of lively, excited travellers pumped for their next big adventure.
It also means a leg of a journey can get full. If you’re travelling in high season and decide to cut your stop short and move on the next day, the bus might be full. On the flip side of that, extending a stop is usually easy.
This packed vibe is part of what makes Peru Hop awesome, but it also means you might have to squeeze in a bit more and vie for those top-notch seats.
Their schedule is rushed
Hopping around Peru with Peru Hop at their pace definitely feels like you’ve hit the fast-forward button. There’s heaps to see, loads of stops, and the buzz of heading to your next spot.
It’s perfect for those who love to pack every moment with action, but it might seem a tad rushed if you like to take it easy, soak things up, have a leisurely coffee, or chat with the locals. What is the trick to really getting the most out of Peru Hop?
Find your own pace within their schedule and tweak it to suit what you like, so that you travel at a speed that feels just right for you. You’re free to change the itinerary, so make sure you do so.
More expensive than public buses
Here’s the deal: Peru Hop might hit your wallet a bit harder than the regular buses. But it’s not like you’re gonna have to empty your bank account for it. What you’re really doing is putting your money into safety, comfort, and the benefit of having everything sorted for you.
It’s all about cashing in on those unforgettable moments and stories you’ll tell for years. It’s also a great way to bump into other travellers who get your love for adventure.
While it is the more expensive way of travelling and may not be suitable for people travelling on a shoestring budget, Peru Hop is worth the extra money.
If you include the money you save on taxis from bus terminals because of the door-to-door service of Peru Hop and add the tickets you save on the free tours, the difference is not that big.
Set route
You get this amazing planned experience that shows off the best Peru has to offer. You’ll be hitting up the coastline, climbing mountains, and checking out ancient ruins without sweating the small stuff. It’s great, but you can’t change it if you’re already on your way and realise the pass you booked is not the greatest for your trip.
The schedule is flexible. You can hop on the next bus whenever you like, but you can’t change your route.
Peru Hop Review: What We Missed
While we covered all the pros and cons, there are some things that I’d love to see in Peru Hop’s future.
Notification system
A system that notifies you the night before with information about the departure and route. Whilst this is included in the itinerary, the system they use is not that easy to use. Having to go through the pages to find the correct information is sometimes a little annoying.
A quick text message or an app notification would improve this.
A better app
They have an app, but I’ll be completely honest, it’s quite shit. You can’t see your schedule, let alone change it. It doesn’t actually have any useful functionalities.
An app where you can see and adjust your schedule, book tours, get the necessary information, etc., would make Peru Hop an 11/10 experience.
Peru Hop vs Public Buses
When it comes to getting around Peru, choosing between Peru Hop and public buses is like deciding between a smoothie and a cup of coffee. They both get you going but in entirely different ways.
While they might be cheaper, public buses come with their own challenges. Crowded spaces, uncertain schedules, and a bit of a wild card when it comes to safety and comfort. It’s the rough-around-the-edges kind of travel that’s perfect for some adventurers.
On the flip side, Peru Hop offers that seamless, worry-free experience. You’re paying for peace of mind, convenience, and a bunch of extra perks that make your travels through Peru not just easier but memorable.
Think of it as the difference between roughing it and riding in style. Each has its charm, but it’s all about what kind of adventure you’re looking for.
Cost of Public Buses and Peru Hop
Talking about the cost, this is where the rubber meets the road. Generally, public buses are more pocket-friendly upfront, giving budget travellers an attractive option.
However, the scales start to tip when you factor in the added stress and potential safety concerns. Peru Hop, while pricier at first glance, offers comprehensive value. You’re not just buying a ride from point A to B but investing in a curated experience.
This includes vetted routes, English-speaking assistance, and free access to certain tours. In essence, the extra dollars go towards peace of mind and enhanced travel experiences, something that’s hard to put a price on.
If you compare the prices of Cruz Del Sur, a major bus company in Peru, to Peru Hop, Peru Hop is about $120 more expensive per person for the same route.
Add taxis at every stop arriving and departing to get to and from your hotels at let’s say $10 per stop, the difference suddenly is $85. You won’t need a taxi everywhere because of the size of the town, and you need one for Peru Hop in Cusco as well.
Then consider the free Pisco distillery tour($15), the Paracas desert tour ($15), and the free entry to the Nazca Lines viewpoint ($5). You’re now at a difference of just $50.
That’s then saved by discounts on accommodation and tours, but even if you don’t use those, $50 for the comfort, convenience, and safety of Peru Hop is 100% worth it.
Peru Hop Destinations: Our Hotel Recommendations
Peru Hop has partner hotels and hostels in every destination. They’re great, and you get a discount, but they’re not for everyone. Here are my recommendations per destination:
Lima
We stayed at the Selina Hostel in Miraflores. A great location in a safe area of the city. Nice and clean, with a restaurant/bar on the premises. They have an airport pick-up service as well!
Paracas
One of the best places to stay in Paracas is Paracas Backpacker House. A nice hostel with private rooms as well as dorms with a roof terrace and very friendly staff.
Book your stay at Paracas Backpacker House right here!
Huacachina
Just outside the oasis in a calm part of town lies Upcycled Hostel. A hostel with private rooms that have great food on site. Worth checking out!
Arequipa
We stayed at the Swiss hostel in Arequipa but didn’t rate it. Instead, I recommend Los Anders Bed & Breakfast. It’s highly rated and has an outside area to chill in.
Puno
A visit to Puno and Lake Titicaca is not complete without staying overnight with a family in the floating village.
Cusco
Last but not least: Cusco. We first stayed at the Wild Rover, which was great, but it is a party hostel. That has to be your thing for you to enjoy it. We were just there to celebrate my birthday. After the Inca Trail, we spent a few nights at Kaaro House, which has a great location and nice rooms.
FAQs – Peru Hop Review
Do you have questions about how Peru Hop can change your travel experience? You’re not alone! Below, I’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked questions to help ease your mind and prepare you for a smooth and unforgettable adventure. Like I said. This Peru Hop review is supposed to be practical as well.
Are the Peru Hop Buses Comfortable?
Absolutely! Peru Hop is all about comfort. You get super comfy, reclining seats, air conditioning to beat the Peruvian heat, and device charging ports.
It’s pretty much like getting a business-class upgrade but on wheels.
Does the Peru Hop Bus Travel in the North of Peru?
Right now, Peru Hop’s got you covered for all the great spots in southern Peru.
They haven’t made their way up north, but their route gives you a solid taste of Peru’s culture, history, and stunning scenery. And while we’re being honest, we’ve been to the North of Peru, and you won’t be missing out.
Is Travelling to and From Lima Airport Possible?
Yes, getting to and from Lima Airport is super easy with Peru Hop. They have an Airport Express service that gets you from the airport to Lima and back without hassle.
A tip for your travels: when booking accommodation with sites such as Booking.com, you can often include airport transfers. We do this all the time, and the prices are not far off those of a regular taxi. But they’ll be waiting for you instead of having to find one.
Is Peru Hop good for solo travellers?
Totally! Peru Hop is a great pick for anyone travelling solo and wanting to see Peru in a safe, fun, and friendly way.
Travelling with Peru Hop means you’re bound to bump into other solo travellers who like the same stuff you do, making it super easy to meet people while exploring.
I’m slightly older. Is Peru Hop still a good option for me?
Absolutely! Peru Hop is for everyone – no age limits there! It’s perfect for travellers of all ages, backgrounds, and travel styles.
Peru Hop Review: Should you hop with Peru Hop?
With all the great perks and glowing reviews, it seems like a solid yes to me. Jumping on Peru Hop lets you see Peru in a cool, comfy, and safe way, and you’ll be doing it with folks who are just as keen on exploring as you are.
They’re known for being safe, friendly, and super easy to travel with, making them a top pick for anyone itching to check out Peru’s beauty and culture.
Whether you’re flying solo, with a buddy, or you’re in your golden years looking for an adventure, Peru Hop seems to have everything you need for an epic trip.
Before You pack your bags
Before you start packing those bags and setting your sights on the mesmerizing landscapes of Peru, there’s one essential thing that shouldn’t be overlooked – travel insurance. One option that stands out for globetrotters is SafetyWing.
Their insurance is designed with the modern nomad and travellers in mind, ensuring your adventures are cushioned with the security and peace of mind you deserve.
From unexpected medical emergencies to travel delays, SafetyWing is your invisible safety net, allowing you to immerse yourself in Peruvian culture worry-free.
Ready to make your Peruvian adventure as smooth and secure as possible? Click here to explore SafetyWing travel insurance. With just a few clicks, you’ll safeguard your trip with comprehensive coverage.
Final Thoughts – Peru Hop Review
Hitting the road with Peru Hop is way more than just travel; it’s a deep dive into culture, connections, and comfort. Their routes are super convenient, and the community vibe is so welcoming you’ll feel right at home.
It’s not just a trip; it’s an adventure waiting to happen.
Peru Hop is more than just a way to get around; it’s your ticket to exploring the amazing wonders of Peru, offering both excitement and peace of mind. Are you ready for an unforgettable journey and stories you’ll be itching to share?
I had to rewrite this Peru Hop review a few times because it sounded too much like a sales pitch. That’s how excited I am about their service.
