Peru Wheelchair Travel Guide

Peru, a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and ancient civilizations, is an incredible destination for travelers. For wheelchair users, exploring Peru presents unique challenges, but with increasing efforts to improve accessibility, it is becoming a more inclusive destination. This review provides essential information on accessible travel in Peru, including attractions, bathrooms, hotels, transportation, and adapted recreation programs.

Attractions

• Machu Picchu: Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca city, is a must-visit destination. While the site itself poses challenges due to its steep and uneven terrain, significant efforts have been made to improve accessibility. The entrance and certain parts of the site are accessible, and there are accessible restrooms at the visitor center. Several tour companies offer specialized tours for wheelchair users, providing assistance with navigation and ensuring a memorable experience.
• Cusco: Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, has cobblestone streets and steep inclines. However, many of the main attractions, including the Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral, and several museums, have been made accessible. Accessible restrooms can be found in major tourist spots and restaurants. Several hotels in Cusco offer accessible accommodations and services.
• Lima: Lima, the capital city, is relatively more accessible compared to other parts of the country. Key attractions like the Larco Museum, Miraflores district, and the Magic Water Circuit are wheelchair accessible. The city has modern infrastructure, with accessible pathways and public restrooms in major areas. Many restaurants and hotels in Lima are equipped to accommodate wheelchair users.
• Sacred Valley: The Sacred Valley of the Incas, located near Cusco, offers beautiful landscapes and historical sites. Sites like Ollantaytambo have sections that are accessible. Pathways in these areas are typically compacted earth or stone, and accessible restrooms are available at visitor centers. Tour operators in the Sacred Valley offer accessible tours and transportation options.
• Paracas National Reserve: Paracas National Reserve, known for its stunning coastal scenery and diverse wildlife, is an accessible destination. Boardwalks and pathways in the reserve are suitable for wheelchair users. Accessible restrooms are available at visitor centers and key points within the reserve.
• Ballestas Islands: Often referred to as the “Galapagos of Peru,” the Ballestas Islands offer spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities. Accessible boat tours are available, with assistance provided for boarding and disembarking. Accessible restrooms are available at the departure points in Paracas.
• Nazca Lines: Viewing the Nazca Lines can be done from a wheelchair-accessible viewing tower. While flying over the lines might be challenging, the tower offers a good perspective of these ancient geoglyphs. Accessible restrooms are available at the visitor center near the tower.

Hotels

• JW Marriott Hotel Lima: Located in the Miraflores district, this hotel offers accessible rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and spacious layouts. The hotel has ramps and elevators throughout the property, making it convenient for wheelchair users. Accessible restrooms are available in public areas.
• Novotel Cusco: This hotel in Cusco provides accessible rooms equipped with necessary amenities for wheelchair users. The hotel has ramps, elevators, and accessible common areas, ensuring a comfortable stay. Accessible restrooms are available in public areas.
• Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa (Sacred Valley): This luxury resort offers accessible rooms with roll-in showers and other amenities. The resort has accessible pathways and ramps throughout the property. Accessible restrooms are available in common areas.

Transportation

• Airports: Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima is the main gateway to Peru. The airport offers accessibility services, including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and elevators. Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco also provides accessibility features.
• Taxis and Transfers: Several companies in Peru offer accessible transportation services. Reliable options include Taxi Seguro which provides wheelchair-accessible taxis in Lima, equipped with ramps and securement systems and Mobility Perú which Offers accessible transportation and tours throughout the country, with vehicles equipped for wheelchair users.
• Trains: PeruRail offers accessible train services to Machu Picchu. The Vistadome and Expedition trains have designated spaces for wheelchair users and accessible restrooms. Assistance is available for boarding and disembarking.

Adapted Recreation Programs

• Accessible Inca Trail: Some tour companies offer adapted trekking experiences on the Inca Trail. While the traditional trail might be challenging, there are shorter, more accessible sections that can be explored with specialized assistance and equipment.
• Adaptive Kayaking and Canoeing: Adaptive kayaking and canoeing tours are available in locations like the Amazon Rainforest and the Sacred Valley. These tours are designed to accommodate different abilities and provide necessary equipment.
• Accessible City Tours: Several tour operators offer accessible city tours in Lima, Cusco, and other major cities. These tours are conducted with accessible vehicles and guides trained to assist wheelchair users, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.