Peru Hop

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When we got to Lima we started to research the best way to get around the country and on numerous blogs we came across Peru Hop and read lots of reviews, the majority reporting how great it was. A hop on hop off bus service with included extras along the way with several route options. They had the exact route that we wanted to take around the South of the country. We were sceptical at first because we thought we wouldn’t do the “tourist” thing and we would get local buses everywhere and we were wary of paying a lot of money upfront not knowing if it was extortionate or not. The more we looked at it the more we were drawn in and are glad that we were. We went for the Full South Route from Lima to Cusco to La Paz for £202 each. This included ten stops along the way and some free tours. A main draw for us as well was the ease of the border crossing from Peru to Bolivia. Your pass is also valid for one year giving you all the time you need to complete your route. 

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They have an online booking system where you can put your buses on hold if you stay longer in a destination and then book your seats for when you are ready to leave. They ask for 24hours notice. They pick you up and drop you off at your hostel and each bus has a very knowledgable, English speaking guide who can help you with booking tours and hostels whilst on route. They offer discounts at certain restaurants and hotels, though some will be out of date. The buses are really comfortable and the drivers are not mental, sleep deprived, or off their tits. so you can get a good sleep too. 

 

The one thing to be aware of is that you can’t go backwards or repeat stops unless you buy another pass. It’s one way so make sure that the route you choose is definitely the route you want to take. 

 

The driving standards in Peru are terrible, but with Peru Hop we never felt unsafe on any of the buses, the drivers are careful and take their time on the roads. They also ask that you wear your seatbelt on each journey which is unheard of in Peru. We got in many taxis and local buses where we couldn’t find a seatbelt. 

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how much is it really?

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If we had got local buses for the same route it would cost around £70, you can add £20 for transfers to and from out of town bus stations you can tot it up to £90. Our free stops with Peru Hop included Pisco Tasting, and a stop various viewpoints including the Nasca Lines. We estimate a further £10 if they were self funded, including the costs of additional transport. so, £100 vs £202. 

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Recommendation

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It's really a matter of budget. Our recommendation would be; if you have the funds and spending them on Peru Hop wont see you having give up an experience then do it for the ease, time saved, safety and comfort. If you haven't got it then save your extra £100, it goes a long way backpacking and local buses are an adventure in the themselves.  

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If you decided not to go with Peru Hop the best websites we found to search for buses were Redbus and Busbud. 

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