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17 Best Places to Visit in Peru

By Kay Pierce · Last updated on June 17, 2024

Peru is probably one of South America’s most well-known destinations, and the mysterious settlement of Machu Picchu has adorned many a tourist postcard. But while the country is certainly celebrated for the Inca Trail and its ancient archeological site, Peru has so much more to offer than crumbling ruins.

Take your time discovering these Peruvian delights, from pre-Columbian settlements to the modern and traditional cities of the Southern Peru Tourist Corridor.

Explore the museums of Lima, soak in the hot springs of high-altitude Cusco, and fly over the astonishing Nazca lines. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in Peru:

17. Chachapoyas

Set in a scenic yet secluded spot far from the Peruvian coast, Chachapoyas lies high amid the mountains and is the capital of Amazonas . While the city doesn’t have all that much going for it, it acts as a gateway to the stunning natural landscapes and archaeological sites that surround it.

Founded by the Spanish in 1538, the small city is home to a couple of interesting monuments and colonial buildings, with plenty of restaurants, hotels, and tour operators found around its main plaza. From here, you can arrange to visit incredible sights such as the distinctive sarcophagi of Karajia or the ancient stone city of Kuelap – the largest pre-Inca ruins in South America.

There’s no shortage of natural beauty nearby, with mountains, valleys and forests home to a diverse range of fauna and flora, including countless species of brightly colored birds. Sparkling waterfalls also abound: Gocta Cataracts is the pick of the bunch at over 700 meter in height. With so many superb landscapes to explore, hiking and trekking are popular and can be arranged in Chachapoyas.

16. Paracas National Reserve

Famed for its dramatic scenery, wealth of archaeological sites, and beautiful beaches and wildlife, Paracas National Reserve lies along Peru’s southern coastline, some 250 kilometers south of Lima . Encompassed within its confines are marine and coastal desert ecosystems as well as a couple of arid, rocky islands.

While fierce ocean waves pulverize its jagged, crumbling cliffs and deserted isles, its small coves and bays are home to shallow, warm waters perfect for swimming. Its sheltered beaches are also lovely for relaxing on, while sailing and windsurfing are popular pastimes.

In addition, many people take boat trips out to the Ballestas Islands to gaze in awe at its spectacular rock formations and the multitude of seabirds, seals, and sea lions living there.

When visiting Paracas National Reserve, most visitors stay in the small town of the same name that lies on the Paracas Peninsula . Here you can find lots of restaurants, bars and hotels as well as tour operators who can take you to see some of the ancient archaeological sites that dot the reserve.

15. Chan Chan

Lying just outside the city of Trujillo in northwest Peru, Chan Chan is one of the most impressive and extensive archaeological sites in the country. The largest pre-Columbian city discovered so far, it is set at the mouth of the Moche Valley in a desolate and arid spot, not far from the Pacific Ocean.

Once the capital of the Chimu Empire , Chan Chan rose to prominence around AD 850 when palaces, plazas, and temples sprung up. While many of these are now severely eroded as the city was entirely made out of adobe, many fine features, carvings, and friezes remain.

Among the endless sprawl, you can find ten royal compounds, home to ceremonial halls, burial chambers, and palaces. These were the residences of the kings of Chimu, who were buried in their complex when they died. The only one open to visitors and partially restored is the Palacio Nik An , which boasts lovely geometric designs, marine motifs, and awe-inspiring architecture.

14. Huascaran National Park

Set high in the Andes in the Central Sierra region of Peru, the enormous Huascaran National Park encompasses almost the entire Cordillera Blanca. The world’s highest tropical mountain range is home to lofty peaks and arresting scenery, while countless species of fauna and flora can be found within its confines.

Established in 1975, the park sprawls over a vast area and includes a number of mighty mountains. Huascaran – after which the park is named – is Peru’s highest peak at 6,768 meters. Remarkably, more than 600 glistening glaciers are dotted about the upper reaches of the range, and countless alpine lakes and roaring rivers can be found down below.

The Cordillera Blanca ‘s sweeping valleys, high plateaus, and steep slopes are home to all kinds of fauna and flora, while ancient archaeological sites are also scattered about. Due to the wonderful scenery and diverse landscapes, the park is a marvelous place to go trekking, mountain climbing and skiing.

Wildlife watching is also popular; catching a glimpse of the elusive puma or endangered spectacled bear is an unforgettable experience.

13. Huacachina

Lying just outside the city of Ica in the southwest of Peru, Huacachina is a popular place to visit thanks to its surreal location surrounded by dunes. Emerging out of the desert like a mirage, the small settlement is clustered around a secluded oasis , with gently waving palm trees and nothing but sand stretching as far as the eye can see.

Huacachina’s sandy surroundings lend themselves perfectly to all kinds of fun outdoor activities, with sandboarding , quad biking, and dune buggy rides popular pastimes. Clambering to the top of the sifting dunes is also a must for the spectacular views, and sunsets are particularly memorable.

Relaxing around the oasis and taking in the stunning scenery is a lovely way to pass the time, and swimming offers a welcome respite from the searing heat. As it is geared towards tourists, Huacachina has plenty of restaurants, bars, and hotels to choose from, with a few kiosks and shops dotted here and there.

Besides its ample adventure opportunities, you can also visit the bodegas and wineries in Ica if you want to sample some delicious local produce.

12. Mancora

As one of the most hip and happening summer beach destinations on the Costanera Norte along the northern Peruvian coast, you simply have to add Mancora to your bucket list. This slice of glorious sandy coastline stretches for kilometers along one of the sunniest parts of Peru – something that hasn’t been missed by the tourism industry.

You’ll find everything from backpackers to swanky beach resorts dotting the sands here.

Apart from the beaches that are worth more than their fair share of relaxation, Mancora has a bustling main street filled with vibrant beach bars , seafood restaurants, and an excellent nightlife scene that livens up after the sun goes down.

That being said, most of the activity here revolves around inactivity; lazy beach days are the order of the day. Those looking for something more active can go surfing in the warm waters, take a seaside stroll from South Beach to Organos or spot seasonal dolphins and whales frolicking in the waves at the main beach. If you somehow grow tired of Mancora’s beach activities, explore further afield – swim with turtles in El Nuro or soak in the hot springs of Poza de Barro.

11. Trujillo

Nestled within a lush valley eight hours north of Lima, Trujillo is celebrated for its photogenic colonial center filled with colorful Spanish mansions , quaint churches, and friendly locals.

Not far from the Pacific Coast, this relatively large city was founded in the 1500s close to the abandoned Chan Chan ruins , one of the largest pre-Incan empires of ancient Peru. Within its impressive once-walled ruins, this Chimor mud city is the largest adobe city in the Americas and boasts a series of religious temples, burial grounds, and royal residences.

But that’s not the only history worth exploring in Trujillo. Visit the 19th-century National University of Trujillo – one of the largest of its kind in South America – that features the world’s longest mosaic. Appreciate the incredible murals of Huaca de la Luna (the Temple of the Moon) that unfortunately showcases human sacrifice.

If you’re looking to relax after your days of exploring, you can’t go wrong with the beaches of resort town Huanchaco – don’t forget your sun cream!

10. Nazca Desert

The puzzling Nazca lines that crisscross the valleys of Palpa and Nazca have put this part of Peru’s otherwise uninteresting desert on the map. These enormous inscriptions of lines, animals, and other geometric patterns were carved into the sandy terrain by the Nazca people and are believed to have been part of a thousand-year-old holy road.

The dry, windless, stable climate of the Nazca Desert has helped keep the lines uncovered to the present day.

The best way to appreciate the magnitude of these geometric lines and shapes is from the air with a flight over the Nazca lines. If you’re hesitant about flying (the costs aren’t cheap!) or you’d just prefer to see them up close, there’s an observation tower along the Panamerican highway where you can view three of the main figures.

Other Nazca sites worth viewing within the desert are the ancient aqueducts known as the Nazca channels. These underground channels are what allow the cotton, potatoes, and fruit plantations in the desert to thrive in this otherwise inhabitable location.

Iquitos is the capital of the Loreto region, which encompasses most of the northern reaches of the Peruvian Amazon . Interestingly, a town that was formed initially by a tribe of hunter-gatherers, Iquitos is now the largest city on earth without road access.

While Iquitos is a little tricky to get to – you have to fly or boat in – the rewards are totally worth it. Despite its remote location, there’s a mix of traditional and modern architecture: wooden huts built on riverside stilts contrast with the historic architecture of the central plaza.

Offering an unforgettable escape in the Amazon jungle that feels authentic, visitors can browse the Belen floating market for everything from bananas to crocodile meat. If it’s souvenirs you’re after, the San Juan crafts market is a better bet.

The isolation of Iquitos is in its favor; the surrounding jungle offers some of the best wildlife watching opportunities in the country. It’s the main base for boat trips along the Amazon River to spot monkeys, alligators, and the notorious anacondas. Visiting the nearby Pacaya Samiria National Reserve near Lagunas is one of the best places for spotting some unusual Amazonian wildlife.

Puno is a picturesque hillside port city that forms the natural gateway to Lake Titicaca and the 85-plus Uros Floating Islands – boats depart from the dock every 40 minutes. Set at an elevation of 3,800 meters, high-altitude Puno has a glorious view over the lakes and the island chain.

Because of its easy access to and from neighboring Bolivia and Chile , Puno is a popular tourist trap, yet it provides a more laidback alternative to the upmarket lake islands it overlooks. For one, souvenirs at the lakeside market are far cheaper than you’ll find in Cusco or Lima!

Its biggest attraction is as a departure point for the famous floating Uros islands with boats leaving every 40 min from the dock. It is also a great place to get a feel for the Aymara and Quechua cultures.

Some of the most popular things to do include a visit to a llama farm and an overnight stay with a local family. Most of the people who live in Puno are Andean , so there’s an interesting mix of modern and Andean traditions, and you’ll still find many women in colorful traditional dress.

As Peru’s capital and largest city, Lima is a sprawling metropolis of almost 9 million people. The city was founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro and offers a rich history as well as exceptional food, a great sense of culture.

You’ll find modern hotels contrasting with traditional and colonial architecture and orderly slums alongside raving nightclubs and bars. Ruled by the Spanish for three centuries, Lima boasts intriguing Spanish-colonial churches , cloisters, and monasteries – a real treat for history buffs.

See also: Where to Stay in Lima

Because of its location close to the coast, Lima is a great foodie destination for seafood lovers. A Lima food tour is a great way to taste your way through the city’s authentic Peruvian delights like Ceviche, with a visit to some of the most authentic markets and restaurants in the city.

Whether you’re taking a stroll through the historic heart of Lima Centro and its craft markets or exploring the more tourist-friendly green suburb of Miraflores , which overflows with antique shops and bars, you’re in for something special in Lima.

6. Colca Canyon

Located in the mountainous Southern Sierra region, Colca Canyon is one of Peru’s most popular tourist destinations. Spanning over 70 kilometers, the world’s second-deepest canyon boasts some spectacular scenery with fascinating Andean culture and nature to discover.

While the sheer size and scale of the canyon are staggering, it is the diversity of the many landscapes that is Colca’s most impressive feature; it encompasses everything from barren steppe and stepped terraces to steep-sided cliffs and rearing mountain peaks. Wherever you go, the scenery is phenomenal, with breathtaking views of Andean condors swirling above the 3,140-metre deep canyon.

Archaeological sites and ruins are dotted about the canyon, while locals maintain their ancestral traditions in their small villages and towns. Many people who visit Colca Canyon start in Chivay before trekking along the scenic rim, past precipitous ravines and death-defying drops, basking in the astonishing scenery and landscapes as they go.

5. Sacred Valley

Once the heartland of the Inca Empire , The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a valley in the Andes, close to Cusco and the ancient city of Machu Picchu . The valley was appreciated by the Incas due to its special geographical and climatic qualities.

Located in Peru’s Southern Sierra, some of the most popular activities here are adventure-based – from trekking and rafting to rock climbing. In contrast, the towns of Yucay and Urubamba are fast becoming a hub for spiritual relaxation and meditation.

Whichever route you take, there’s plenty to discover along the way. There are gorgeous colonial towns, remote villages, colorful markets, and fascinating Incan sites such as the citadels of Pisac, Chinchero, and Ollantaytambo tucked along this mysterious route.

Take your time exploring the terraced hills above Pisac , making it down in time to browse the village’s famous artisanal market. Check out Choquequirao , some blissfully uncrowded ruins that are deemed to be giving Machu Picchu a run for its money.

4. Inca Trail

Winding through the mountains, over passes, and above valleys with stunning views all the way, Peru’s Inca Trail is one of the most famous treks in the world. The hike takes around four days to complete and starts just outside of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire , with the end-goal being the mythical Machu Picchu – the Lost City of the Incas.

Using ancient stone paths and trails that the Incas themselves laid down all those centuries ago, the route meanders through diverse ecosystems and landscapes. While some parts run next to stepped terraces, others pass by alpine tundra and cloud forest, with plunging valleys and towering mountains lying in the distance.

As the Inca civilization was centered around the highlands, you’ll also come across ancient ruins on the way.

Due to the Inca Trail’s incredible popularity, visitors now need to book with a tour operator and can choose between several different routes , which vary in distance and elevation. Hiking the historic trail in the footsteps of the Incas is an unforgettable experience and makes arriving at the majestic Machu Picchu all the more special.

3. Arequipa

Located 2,380 meters above sea level, Arequipa is Peru’s second-largest city. Surrounded by volcanoes, including the El Misti , it’s known as the ‘ White City ’ because its buildings were crafted out of white volcanic rock called sillar from the neighboring mountains.

Unlike many of Peru’s other cities, Arequipa doesn’t have any Incan claims to fame – at least, not in the form of ancient settlements. Its most famous Inca sight is the Mummy Juanita, also known as the Lady of Ampato – an astonishingly well-preserved frozen body of a young teenaged Incan girl who was sacrificed to the gods during the 1400s. She can now be found in the Catholic University of Santa María’s Museum of Andean Sanctuaries.

Examples of Spanish colonial architecture can be found throughout the center of the city. Among the most significant of these is the Santa Catalina Convent , which is often described as a city within a city because of its charming streets, colorful buildings and flowers. Beautiful bridges like the Puente Bolognesi also offer historic value as well as scenic views. The city’s main square, the Plaza de Armas , is a common starting point for many tourists with its shops, restaurants and old churches.

Arequipa is the natural jumping-off point for visiting the multicolored Colca Canyon , one of the top tourist attractions in Peru. Dropping to a depth of 3,270 meters, the canyon is one of the deepest of its kind in the world.

Located in the Southern Sierras, colorful Cusco was once the capital of the Incan Empire. Today, it holds the title of the archaeological capital of the Americas. It’s one of Peru’s most-visited destinations, and for good reason: it offers easy access to Machu Picchu and the incredible Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Built by the Spanish on the ruins of age-old Incan temples and palaces, The heart of the city is the main square, the Plaza de Armas , which is surrounded by restaurants, cafes and churches. The colorful San Pedro Market is nearby with vendors selling Quechua handicrafts like alpaca textiles, painted pottery, ceramics and Peruvian dolls as well as fresh produce and drinks.

Just outside the city limits is an important Inca site known as Sacsayhuaman , an enormous walled complex constructed of large limestone boulders. The site is an ancient engineering marvel because of its accurate alignment with annual solstices and its ability to withstand earthquakes.

The city is brimming with culture – it’s the center of Quechua culture in the Andes – and its mountains are etched with trekking routes and hot springs. Strolling the city streets with its colonial architecture, craft markets, museums, boutique hotels and art galleries has a timeless feel to it.

Because of its high-altitude location 3,400 meters above sea level, altitude sickness is a risk in Cusco, so make sure you allow time to acclimatize before making your way here.

1. Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is anyone’s Peruvian highlight, no matter what you’re visiting this South American country for. Tucked 2,430 meters high in the Andes, this abandoned ancient Incan city seems to be eternally enshrouded in mist. In fact, it’s so well hidden that it remained undiscovered for centuries – earning it the nickname ‘ the Lost City of the Incas .’

The site was eventually discovered by an explorer, but even then, only by accident. In the years since its discovery, it’s become one of the most yearned-after bucket list spots in the world. This means it doesn’t come without the crowds, so be sure to plan your trip well in advance.

Some of the most popular ways to reach these crumbling Incan ruins are by trekking the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trail. For those who prefer not to ascend on foot, there is an easier route by train.

However you reach the site, you’ve got plenty to do when you arrive. Explore well-preserved buildings that include houses, temples, fountains and baths in addition to agricultural terraces and evidence of an irrigation system. You can also admire the surrounding views from the Sun Gate , the gateway to Machu Picchu from the famous Inca Trail, and climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for a bird’s eye view over the enchanting valleys.

Map of Peru

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Reader interactions.

September 13, 2017 at 1:17 pm

There are a lot of interesting and amazing places to visit here in Peru. For me, the best one is Machu Picchu because of the last experience that I had there. Even though every city has its own beauty, I’d rather go to Machu Picchu again. For example, if you enjoy beaches and hot weather, you will like being in Mancora. Any place that you visit in Peru will be an unforgettable experience.

April 3, 2016 at 8:48 am

As a Peruvian (now living in CA), I’d recommend trying to get out of the tourist filled areas. While Machu Pichu and Colca Canyon are indeed beautiful. Culture is very much alive were ever you go. Perhaps make friends with a family who are direct descendants of the incas, still eat their foods, wear their clothes, speak their language, etc. You’ll be surprised how much is there that has not been ‘touristified’ simply wandering the streets of Cusco, I have seen rocks with no less than 20 different sides, sculpted to interlock perfectly with their neighbors. No doubt crafted by the hands of an Inca. Just beware, if you choose this route, be prepared to eat whole fish, Guinea pigs, and a crap ton of quinoa.

February 20, 2016 at 11:52 pm

My family and I have spent 14 days in Peru with travel agency known as Papriqua. This has been the most memorable vacation for us ever. We had a well informed guide , a walking library, and I must say ,that guy had all the answers The weather was fantastic, the food was great, the people there, were friendly, accomodations were satisfying and the sites were absolutely fantastic. I believe we will go back to explore the Amazon , Iquitos , Trujillo and to visit that area { Lord of Sipan}

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The 28 Most Beautiful Places in Peru

By Megan Spurrell

For many, the shining star of Peru is Machu Picchu —that iconic green peak, towering over ancient ruins is hard to forget. But look a little further—like, 30-minutes-in-any direction further—and you'll find natural beauty, biodiversity, colonial architecture, and pristine archaeological sites throughout the country that are just as remarkable as the iconic Incan ruins. In fact, the only thing these destinations are lacking is press. Here are 28 places, from the otherworldly Amazon rainforest to the red sand beaches of Paracas, that will make you want to pack your bags and canvass the whole of Peru.

Tucked in Peru's Huascarán National Park, the picturesque Lake 69 is one of the country's most compelling natural wonders: the aquamarine pool glistens beneath the snowy peaks of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range, reflecting the dramatic silhouettes above. To see the vivid blue IRL, grab your hiking boots and head to the nearby town of Huaraz ( LC Peru operates the 75-minute flight from Lima). Local tour companies run day trips, though it's also easy to explore the trails on your own.

Just a few hours south of Lima by car, Huacachina is an unexpected oasis in the Ica desert. This weekend getaway from the big city looks as though it slid off the giant sand dunes surrounding it—a central pond, smattering of palms, and tiny homes pool together to create the tiny town with a population of 100. Rent a sand board or hop on a dune buggy and rumble around the nearby peaks and valleys; for full bragging rights, make sure to summit Cerro Blanco—it's one of the tallest sand dunes in the world.

Colca Canyon

Ask any serious hiker where to go in Peru, and they'll tell you: Machu Picchu is nice, but the Colca Canyon reigns supreme at the top of their bucket lists. Colca Canyon is located in the south of the country (the city of Arequipa serves as its launching pad), and the dramatic crevice is a whopping two miles deep at points. For those keeping tabs, that's double the depth of the Grand Canyon. It's also home to the giant Andean condor, which are often seen gliding through its valleys.

Vinicunca is something of a social media urban legend: not too far from Machu Picchu, you'll find this series of rainbow-colored mountains, with travelers fighting for the same view. It's a manageable day trip from Cusco (you can rent a car or book a tour last minute), and a moderately easy climb once you've acclimated to the altitude. Hurry though—word is out, and tourism to the area is quickly picking up.

Arequipa may be second in size to Lima, but it makes up for the difference in character. This colonial-era city is set right in the Andes between three towering volcanoes, with resplendent architecture made of white volcanic sillar stone. The result? A cityscape unlike any other in Peru. Head to the central Cathedral of Arequipa for some serious architectural eye candy, and make sure to stop in a local picanteria along the way—Arequipa is also known as the culinary capital of the country, with regional dishes as distinctive as its buildings (don't miss the rocoto relleno stuffed peppers).

Perched on Lima's dramatic cliffs, the colorful neighborhood of Barranco boasts sweeping views of the Pacific—and some of the city's most beautiful architecture. Its quiet streets are lined with pristine late 19th-century homes, many of which were originally built as summer houses for the country's well-to-do, but now serve as landing spots for the city's (successful) artists. Some have also been converted into chic boutique hotels, such as the new Villa Barranco .

On the Northern coast of Peru lies Chan Chan, a 20-square-kilometer sprawl of adobe ruins that were once the largest city in the Americas. Today, they are still the largest pre-Colombian ruins in the world, and tourists are welcome to admire the impressive construction. They're reachable via the city of Trujillo, a quick 75-minute flight from Lima.

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu needs no introduction: This Wonder of the World attracts over a million tourists per year, and has become so popular the government recently had to introduce restrictions on the number on entrances allowed per day. The ruins, daintily perched atop the flattened peak of a mountain in the Andes, deliver in archaeological and natural beauty. For a view few people receive, grab a ticket to hike Huayna Picchu, the peak behind the ruins, and take it in from a second perspective.

Salkantay Pass

There are a handful of ways to get to Machu Picchu, but the Salkantay Trek is notorious for being the most arduous of them all—and, as it tends to happen, the most rewarding. This journey can take anywhere from four to seven days to complete, and includes about eight hours of walking a day, steep climbs, river crossings, and, if you travel with a luxury outfitter like Mountain Lodges of Peru , comfy stays along the trail that make it manageable. The reward is the breathtaking views—especially those of Salkantay, the highest peak of the Vilcabamba mountain range, which looms over the trail.

Historic Center of Lima

Lima isn't usually winning beauty pageants—even Peruvians will moan about the notoriously grey city, which spends half the year beneath overcast skies. But to its credit, Lima also has precious bursts of colorful, colonial architecture, especially in the downtown historic center. Head to the stately Plaza Mayor and the streets branching off of it: You'll find rows of Baroque, pastel-colored buildings, adorned with dramatic wooden balconies.

Choquequirao

The "next Machu Picchu" trope can be applied to countless archaeological sites throughout Peru—but if there's one location that is most deserving of the moniker, it's Choquequirao. These Incan ruins closely resemble those of Machu Picchu, both in construction and their dramatic placement atop a truncated mountain, yet they delightfully lack the hordes of tourists—for now, that is. These ruins, several hours from the city of Cusco, can only be reached by foot (via a multi-day trek through the jungle), though that may change with the installation of a cable car in the next few years.

Pastoruri Glacier

In the picturesque Cordillera Blanca mountain range, the Pastoruri is one of the few remaining glaciers found in South America's tropical region. The bowl-shaped cirque glacier is currently over three square miles in size, but is rapidly shrinking due to global warming. As local glaciologists work to prevent further reduction, tourists continue to travel from throughout Peru and abroad to witness the glowing mass of ice.

Nazca Lines

A few hours south of Lima, a series of ancient geoglyphs stretch across the red sand of the Ica desert. And when we say stretch, we mean stretch —hundreds of massive designs span around 20-30 miles of sand. The geometric and zoomorphic etchings, created between 500 BCE and 500 CE, were likely drawn by the Nazca people, but the "how" and "why" of their origin story is largely unanswered. The best way to appreciate the lines is by taking a small prop plane tour overhead.

Huascaran National Park

A moody contrast to the lush setting of Machu Picchu, the jagged, snow-capped peaks of Huascarán National Park are easily among Peru's most beautiful sites. Just outside the city of Huaraz, the park is home to most of the Cordillera Blanca (the self-proclaimed highest tropical mountain range in the world), in addition to several glaciers, countless turquoise lakes, and impressive biodiversity—pumas, spectacled bears, and vicunas all walk these hills.

The Andean city of Cusco has long been a jewel in the crown: it oozes colonial charm, from its smooth cobblestone roads to the Baroque architecture of its churches. The city center—a bustling hub of textile markets, preserved Incan ruins, and whitewashed stone homes topped with red-tile roofs—is hugged by rolling hills that lead to attractions like Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Huancaya is a blink-and-you-could-miss-it district in the highlands outside Lima—and most travelers do miss it. But if you're up for the windy, 5-hour drive from Lima, you'll find a cascading network of lakes and rivers without a tourist in sight. Work with a local travel specialist to arrange a day or two of trekking alongside the emerald waters, then come home and let your photos earn you the street cred you deserve.

Cañon de los Perdidos

If you've spent even a minute on Instagram, you're familiar with the red rock waves of Arizona's Antelope Canyon . In southern Peru, you'll find a similar feat of nature: the Cañon de los Perdidos. Trek through the striated stone, carved smooth by a flowing river, just a couple hours from Lima (pair this day trip with a visit to Huacachina).

Ollantaytambo

Sure, the town of Ollantaytambo has been blessed with the same natural beauty as the rest of the Sacred Valley—but look closely at the towering Pinkuylluna mountain that forms its backdrop, and you'll see the real magnum opus: the Pinkuylluna ruins. Clinging to the rock face is a series of stone terraces, supposedly used as shophouses by the Inca in the 15th century. Those willing to make the hair-raising climb up will be rewarded with a bird's eye view of the valley below.

The otherworldly Amazon rainforest stretches over two million square miles—and nine countries—and is home to unparalleled biodiversity and more than 400 indigenous tribes. Snaking through it is the Amazon River, the largest in the world, which winds its way through Ecuador, Brazil, Colombia, and Peru, with the latter holding claim to a major portion of the waterway (including the source of it all, Río Mantaro). The rainforest is most commonly accessed through the cities of Iquitos (a two-hour flight from Lima), Pucallpa, or Puerto Maldonado (a few hours' drive from Cusco), with most visitors using them as jumping off points for river cruises or a stays in eco-lodges , like Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica .

Amongst the many peaks of Peru's Cordillera Blanca in the Huascarán National Park, the whittled-sharp pike of Alpamayo is impossible to miss. The 19,511-foot-tall mountain is often blanketed in snow, and has attracted ice climbers from all over the world for decades.

The ancient salt mines of Maras are a favorite destination for photographers—and it's easy to see why. The geometric pools fill a narrow cleft of Cusco's Sacred Valley, terracing the green hillsides with an array of stark white to light caramel-colored waters. The salt ponds are an easy day trip from the city of Cusco, and often paired with a visit to the nearby archaeological site of Moray.

On the north coast of Peru, surf culture meets pre-Colombian history on the beaches of Huanchaco. Said to be the place where surfing was invented some 2,000 years ago , the long, calm shores of the Pacific are still decorated with the striking silhouettes of traditional reed "surfboards" (or, as they're called here, caballitos de totora ).

Pacaya Samiria National Reserve

Use the Amazonian city of Iquitos as your launch pad: hop on a large river boat, then a smaller canoe, and you'll find yourself paddling a nearly-untouched part of the Amazon in the remote Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. It's the second largest protected part of the Amazon, with remarkable wildlife that calls it home: the pink dolphin, Amazonian manatee, red-faced spider monkey, jaguar, and more than 500 species of birds can be found here.

Paracas Natural Reserve

When walking the streets of Lima, you may hear enterprising tour vendors mention the "poor man's Galapagos"—a place where, allegedly, you can see everything from Humboldt penguins to Orcas and Chilean flamingos, in turquoise waters and on red sand beaches. Believe it or not, it's all true: the Paracas National Reserve, a couple hours drive from Lima in the region of Ica, is exactly the jaw-dropping display of diverse wildlife and gorgeous landscape the vendors describe. Hire a boat to take you into the reserve for the day (or jump on one of the many group boat tours), and return to the mainland just in time for an incredible seafood and one of the area's famous sunsets ( Hotel Paracas will have you covered on both fronts).

Cordillera Huayhuash

Like the nearby Cordillera Blanca, the Cordillera Huayhaush of northern Peru is a dramatic mountain range boasting snowy peaks, with bucket list treks for hikers and turquoise pools at their bases. Huayhuash, though, has remained relatively less-visited, so it's easy to spend days on the hiking circuit with few others around. In fact, there are hardly any local residents either, save for a few small hamlets, and the treasured visit by a vicuña (a relative of the llama), or an Andean condor overhead.

As Machu Picchu crowds swell, the ruins of Kuelap in Northern Peru have become the beloved alternative by those in the know . Settled high in the lush Amazon, this ancient walled city built by the Chachapoyas culture overlooks the Utcubamba Valley and remains impressively well-preserved—there are remains of more then 400 hut-like structures, an estimated 1,000 years older than Machu Picchu.

Uros Floating Islands

Stretching across the border of Bolivia and Peru is the world's highest navigable body of water and "the birthplace of the Incas"— Lake Titicaca . Its tranquil waters seem infinite, their end seamlessly blending into the open sky above, with the occasional soft yellow of reed boats and a few tiny islands interrupting the palette. One such interruption is the Uros Floating Islands, an ancient settlement built entirely of totora reeds found on the shores of the lake. The indigenous Uros people call it home, living as they have for generations.

Gocta Falls

High in the Amazonian province of Chachapoyas (near the ruins of Kuelap), the 2,530-foot tall Gocta Falls makes a dramatic free-leap off the face of a towering mountain, much like the Angel Falls in Venezuela . Though the falls are in clear view of a neighboring village and have been known about in Peru for many years, they only gained international publicity in the early 2000's when a German expedition encountered them: local lore had it that any villager to reveal their location would unleash a curse on the entire town, leaving the denizens mum about this natural wonder until someone else uncovered them.

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The 24 Most Incredible Places to Visit in Peru

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 1st April 2024

From dazzling churches to relics of ancient civilizations, Peru has more than its fair share of striking natural landmarks and historic monuments.

Although there are certainly a few well-known spots in among the others in this list of places to visit in Peru, I’ve added some barely-visited alternatives that promise the same mix of history and spellbinding scenery – just without the crowds.

So read on for my guide to the 24 most spectacular places to visit and things to do in Peru – many of which you’ll probably never have heard of before.   

Click to navigate this article:

My Absolute Favorite Places in Peru

I’ve lived in Cusco, traveled extensively around the south of Peru and also updated the Rough Guide to Peru , focusing on the north of the country. And, the places that I fell most deeply in love with will probably surprise you.

So, in no particular order, here are my favorite places in Peru, followed by a list of others that you might want to consider adding to your travel itinerary if you’ve got a little more time.

1. Machu Picchu

Easily the most famous place to visit in Peru and the Goliath of South America’s tourism hotspots, the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu perched high up in the Andes has topped many a bucket list. And, there’s a reason why.

Its location is truly dramatic and walking around the site with a local guide learning about exactly what all of the buildings would have been for and why it was constructed high up in the mountains only adds to the magic of the experience.

There are several options for getting to Machu Picchu – not all of them expensive – but most pass through Aguas Calientes, the small and nowadays hugely touristy town crouched at the base of the mountains.

A self-guided two-day tour from Cusco via minibus coming in as the cheapest way to get to Machu Picchu.  

The Inca trail is the most well-known but by no means the only or best hiking route to get there; other adventurous options include the Salkantay and Lares treks. I personally really enjoyed the Salkantay, as it heads into the mountains beyond Machu Picchu and felt quieter than the Inca Trail.

Want a cheeky 5% discount on the Inca trail or Salkantay trek?

Alpaca Expeditions are not only one of the most sustainable companies offering Salkantay and Inca trail treks to Machu Picchu, but their guides, porters and chefs are the ultimate hosts.

They’re now offering Worldly Adventurer readers a 5% discount on all of their hikes – just mention Worldly Adventurer when you enquire!

Before you plan, read up on when you should visit Machu Picchu for the times of the year with the best weather and finest views of the citadel.

2. Gocta and Yumbilla Falls

Plunging a dramatic 771 meters from clifftop to valley floor, Gocta Falls are a treasure of nature tucked deep into Northern Peru and quickly becoming one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. 

Interestingly, tourists have only been visiting Gocta for the past 15 or so years after these falls were revealed to the outside world by a German explorer – although, they obviously had been known to the locals for far longer!

Although the view from nearby Cocachimna is spectacular in itself, the six-hour hike to the forceful spray at their base is definitely worth it – although the route can be particularly muddy.

For even more intrepid, Indiana Jones-types, nearby Yumbilla Falls is similarly dramatic – and receives far less footfall.

At 896 meters, these waterfalls are actually higher than Gocta and it’s a short five kilometers on foot from the trailhead to reach the base of the first section of falls.

3. Kuélap

For treasure seekers, Peru’s long history of developed civilizations doesn’t end with the likes of Machu Picchu and other Inca sites in the south – and explains why I think Peru is one of the best countries in South America to visit for those seeking fascinating archaeological sites.

The jewel in northern Peru’s crown is the archaeological site of Kuélap , a partially-restored citadel installed on a lofty plateau in a mountain above the Uctubamba Valley.

The city’s construction dates remain unknown, but it’s thought to be anywhere up to 1,000 years older than the country’s more famous Inca constructions.

It also boasts enormous 20-meter-high stone walls surrounding what was formerly an extensive city.

Around 500 circular stone houses, many decorated with relief motifs remain. On a tour of the site, you learn about how, at the center of these buildings, a stone cellar would have been used to store the mummies of their dead. 

One of the main things to do here is take the new cable car system up to the fortress or you can even arrive how the Chachapoya would have done – with a sweaty and steep four-hour climb from the valley below. 

Forget the Inca Trail in the south of Peru: the Cordillera Blanca and Parque Nacional Huascarán make Huaraz the country’s hiking and climbing capital.

Jagged, ice-sheathed mountains bow into aquamarine lakes and high-altitude hiking trails climb up between the two, offering truly spectacular scenery and a glimpse of delicate vicuña and soaring condors.

The region’s most popular hikes include the one-day Laguna 69 trail and the four-day Santa Cruz trek, both of which climb into the mountains to reach picturesque – and truly photogenic – glacial lakes.

For more experienced hikers, consider heading south to the far less visited Cordillera Huayhuash, where the 14-day (and 186-kilometer) Huayhuash Trek promises high-altitude passes and stunning mountain scenery.

All can be reached from Huaraz, where comfortable mountain lodges offer lodgings.

5. Lima’s dining scene

Visiting Peru without spending some quality time in its capital would be a damn shame. A chaotic, concrete jungle intertwined with majestic colonial architecture, pre-Colombian remains, and a buzzing cultural scene, Lima is well equipped for a charm offensive.

Eat your way across South America’s gastronomic capital (pisco sours and ceviche are just the beginning…), being sure to venture beyond the sprawling beach and luxury shops and bars of tourist-popular Miraflores to the colonial city center and the hipster hangout of Barranco (craft beer included) to experience the other faces of this charismatic city.

Make sure you stop in for lunchtime ceviche ( Peru’s stable dish ) at La Mar and enjoy some criolla music at the famed Del Carajo , a peña (a late-night traditional music venue and bar) packed with local Limeños.

And check out our review of Selina for your guide to where to stay in Lima .

6. The Sacred Valley

The fertile valley sprawling outwards from the Urubamba river is famed for its arresting beauty and – for some – its healing energy.

The valley is peppered with wellness retreats offering everything from yoga and meditation to plant healing ceremonies such as the notorious ayahuasca , as well as fascinating Incan ruins and picturesque towns.

While the town of Ollantaytambo is a key destination on the local tourism circuit (and an interesting place to visit in the Sacred Valley ) as it’s the starting point of the Inca Trail, Pisac hosts a great market, really fascinating archeological site from the Inca, and an epic foam fight during the annual Carnival celebrations – which are more interesting than those in nearby Cusco.

You’ll also find plenty of places to stay in the Sacred Valley , which, at a lower altitude than Cusco, is a great place to acclimatize to the high elevations of the region.

I’ve never eaten at Mil , the expensive restaurant run by acclaimed Peruvian chef Virgilio Martínez, but it’s on my list to return- it looks incredible!

7. The Colca Canyon

Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon but not nearly as famous, Cañon del Colca (Colca Canyon) boasts dramatic scenery and pre-Colombian agricultural terraces built into its sheer sides and has quickly established itself as a Peruvian landmark that you don’t want to miss.

It is one of the best places in South America to spot endangered Andean Condors, which can be seen gliding between rocky cliffs in the skies above, most visibly from the Mirador Cruz del Condor.

As an entry point to the western side of the canyon, the small town of Cabanaconde may be reached by a 3.5-hour bus journey from Arequipa, and from here, a two-day hike sees you plunge down into the depths of the canyon.

In the evening, take a relaxing dip in the swimming pools of the lush Paraiso Las Palmeras Lodge  (S/133 ($40 USD) double) before an early – and lung-busting – climb back out again the next morning.

8. Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipán

All things that glitter aren’t gold – well, that’s what they say, at least. In the Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipán , a museum in the northern town of Lambayeque, you can be guaranteed that practically everything you see is in fact gold .

I remain baffled by the fact that this remarkable museum remains so off the radar for most visitors to Pedru. Dedicated to the Mochica culture, which flourished along the northern Peruvian coast between 100 and 700 AD, this museum is considered one of the finest in South America.

It contains three floors of remarkable gold and silver jewelry, headdresses, and other artifacts that were buried in the tomb of El Señor de Sipán – a Mochicha ruler. A recreation of his tomb is one of the museum’s main exhibits.

You can even visit the original archaeological site located south of Chiclayo, although the museum contains just replicas of the artifacts shown in Lambayeque.

9. Puerto Maldonado and the Tambopata National Reserve

Puerto Maldonado, the small, sweltering city where the Tambopata and Madre de Dios rivers converge, is perhaps the most quickly accessible point of entry to the secluded rainforests of the Amazon basin, particularly for those on a short Peru vacation.

The infrastructure in this part of the Amazon is also far superior to many other entry points, including those in Bolivia and Colombia.

An overnight bus or short plane journey from Cusco brings you to the humid city, before motoring upstream to a jungle lodge.

Stay at the fantastic Tambopata Research Center  ($236 USD double), located in the Tambopata National Reserve, for piranha fishing, nocturnal hiking, birdwatching, ayahuasca rituals, and more.

Just a word to the wise: don’t forget your mosquito repellent.

10. Museo Larco, Lima

40,000 ceramics jostle for space on the shelves of the singular Museo Larco  in Lima’s Pueblo Libre neighborhood.

If you’re curious about Peru’s history of pottery, there’s no better place, with the exhibits covering a staggering 4,000 years of Peruvian civilization.

But, what the museum is perhaps better known for is its collection of Mochica erotic pottery.

Yup, the Mochica had a penchant for recreating sexual acts through ceramics and you’re guaranteed to spend a few hours chuckling at some of the more explicit pieces.

Cusco is the centerpiece of Peruvian tourism, both in its own right as the ancient Incan capital and as a pit-stop on the way to the South American tourist’s holy grail, Machu Picchu .

As Peru’s most popular city for tourists, Cusco’s eccentric charm is born from a bizarre fusion of colorful Andean tradition and contemporary intensive tourism. I enjoyed living there for six months back in 2017 – although, getting asked by the guy dressed as an Inca if I wanted to pay for a photo with him every single day did get a little old.

In between gargantuan Incan stone walls, spot brightly adorned, sour-faced llamas, vaguely traumatic stacks of roasted guinea pigs, and local entrepreneurs pushing their wares, from sports massages to (fake) alpaca jumpers.

While it’s hard to find an unexplored inch in the old town, the Baratillo market on a Saturday is an opportunity to escape the throngs of tourists and experience Cusco like a local, while the city’s historic sites – particularly Q’orikancha, an Inca temple overlaid with a 17th-century church – are well worth the visit.

Read my recommended Cusco itineraries for further inspiration.

There are also world-class rapids in the nearby Apurimac and Urubamba rivers (we recommend going white water rafting with local experts and B Corp, Amazonas Explorer – mention Worldly Adventurer for a 5% discount on all of their tours).

12. Trujillo

Peru’s northern capital Trujillo is perhaps the country’s most charming city that you’ve never heard of. A pretty, palm-dotted Plaza de Armas gives on to streets filled with colonial churches and restored old mansions painted in cheerful pastel shades.

But it’s beyond the city’s boundaries where Trujillo’s truly fascinating history lies, in the form of an array of ancient, pre-Inca archaeological sites.

The most famous is the UNESCO World Heritage Chan Chan , the largest adobe city ever discovered on earth, thought to have been home to 60,000 people as part of the Chimú Empire around 850 AD.

Nowadays, you can explore the site, observing the fish and bird motifs on its restored mud walls.

South of Trujillo, the huacas de la Luna and del Sol are two Moche temples, the former of which contains striking relief murals depicting grizzly religious ceremonies; the Moche were known for their use of human sacrifices to appease the gods. 

The Complejo Arqueológico El Brujo , a museum showcasing the remains of and treasures buried with a female shaman from the Moche culture is also a must-visit. Her mummified remains show tattoos of spiders, snakes, and marine animals.

It is one of the most interesting museums I’ve ever visited in Peru – and no one seems to know about it!

13. Lobitos

If you’re planning a trip to Peru and seeking sea, sand, and – mostly importantly – surf, few destinations can compete with Lobitos.

Situated 72 kilometers south of the better-known Máncora, Lobitos is Peru’s most up-and-coming surfing destination.

It also offers a welcome escape from the hordes of tourists now covering the beaches of the former.

There’s not much to do here other than appreciate the coral-white sands and crystal waters at the beach or rent a board and enjoy consistent swells of up to 7ft, with June the month with the biggest waves.

There are plenty of cozy guesthouses, many, such as the spectacular Buenavista (S/100 ($30 USD) double), that is run by former pro-surfers and offer irresistibly relaxed atmospheres.  

If you do want to visit Mancora, which is known for its kite surfing, I much preferred staying outside of the town. Most of the region’s luxury hotels are situated two kilometers south at Las Pocitas, or Punta Sal, the same distance north, where white sand beaches and far fewer crowds point towards a truly affordable paradise.

Try the stunning cabins of KiChic  (S/900 ($270 USD) double) or the truly remote bungalows at Yemaya (S/420 ($126 USD) double) – both of which are right on the beach.

13. Lake Titicaca

The colossal Lake Titicaca (Lago Titicaca) – one of the biggest in South America and the highest navigable lake in the world – is a popular stop on a tour of Peru.

The small city of Puno is gritty to say the least, however, if you’re planning a day trip to the Uros Islands, around 120 remarkable islands hand built from reeds by the Uros people.

When I visited, I found the tours overly touristy and not really how I like to travel – however, since then, it’s possible to stay overnight on the islands and experience what it’s like to sleep on reed furniture on a reed island. This one is very fancy and definitely a less-than-traditional experience; this one is a much more relaxed, local option.

Beyond the Uros Islands, the lake is full of secluded corners to explore ancient ruins, discover local traditions, and take in the fresh air and ruggedly beautiful landscape. A homestay on Amantini island is a great way to experience (non-floating) island life firsthand.

14. The Rainbow Mountains

A relatively new discovery for Peru’s tourism industry, most of the time you only hear about one “rainbow mountain”: Vinicunca.

Day trips from Cusco bus 1,000 tourists here every day armed with smartphones to snap that Instagram-perfect picture of the mountain’s colorful sedimentary stripes (filters abound).

This breakneck baptism into mass tourism has not come without some unpleasant side effects, including poor-quality tours, a rapidly degrading trail, and the destruction of natural habitats.

A one or preferably two-day trip to Palccoyo, the “other rainbow mountain”, offers a more sustainable – and enjoyable – experience. Again, Amazonas Explorers are a brilliant responsible operator with whom to do this trip (and will give you a 5% discount if you mention Worldly Adventurer when enquiring).

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15. choquequirao.

If you don’t want to share your Incan experience with 2,500 other tourists, skip Machu Picchu and head off the radar to Choquequirao – Peru’s least-known mountain-top fortress.

Although it was once a magnificent site thought to be around the same size as Machu Picchu, only 30% of the site has yet been excavated and it’s distinguished by its huge terraces decorated with white-stone llamas.

Getting here is a tough but magnificent four-day round trek that sets out from the town of Cachora, but the infrastructure is currently being constructed to make Choquequirao more easily accessible – so if you want to have this place to yourself, get there ASAP.

It’s fair to say that it’s one of South America’s best – and most unmissable – hikes . To do it, we recommend Amazonas Explorers , who have scheduled departures on the first Sunday of each month.

They aren’t the cheapest company available, but they offer a really high level of service, a committed to sustainability as a B-Corp, and have English-speaking guides. Mention us for a 5% discount on their tours.

16. The Nazca Lines

The UNESCO-World-Heritage-Site Nazca Lines trail Machu Picchu for the title of Peru’s most iconic tourist attraction.

To get an eyeful of these baffling, gigantic, ancient geoglyphs etched into the floor of the Nazca desert, first reach Nazca – a 7-hour bus journey from Lima – then arrange your viewing method of choice (options include from viewing tower, nearby mountains, or plane).

I enjoyed the Nazca Lines, but it’s out of the way of many of the country’s other sights, meaning a lengthy detour on your trip, plus the flights (definitely the only way to really see the geoglyphs properly) can be expensive.

17. Manu National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an area of globally unrivaled biodiversity , uniquely located at the meeting point of the tropical Andes and the Peruvian Amazon basin.

Reachable from Cusco by plane or a lengthy (over 17 hours) but incredibly scenic route via road and boat, or from Puerto Maldonado (4-6 hours by boat), entrance to the park is only permitted through an established tour operator.

Visitors are in with a chance of spotting elusive big cats and rare species including the giant armadillo and the giant river otter.

18. Arequipa

Signature white buildings set against a skyline dominated by the deceptively serene-looking Misti volcano make Arequipa Peru’s picturesque urban gem.

The country’s second biggest city, though just a tenth the size of sprawling, chaotic Lima, Arequipa holds its own in terms of heritage, culture, and – importantly – cuisine: pop into a local picantería to sample regional favorites such as chupe de camarones and rocoto relleno.

Adrenaline seekers can also hike to the top of one of Peru’s most easily accessible summits, that of Volcano Misti, which sits right behind the city. The hike takes roughly two days to check out the sizzling crater and enjoy stunning views over Arequipa and the Laguna de Salinas.

Find out other things to do in Arequipa in our extensive travel guide to the city and pick your accommodation with this article about where to stay in Arequipa .

19. Leymebamba

On a trip to Peru, you soon learn that there’s one thing you can expect to see in practically all museums you visit: mummies. And for the oddest collection, the Museo de Leymebamba is the winner.

This pretty village just 80 kilometers south of Chachapoyas is home to a troop of 219 mummies – buried by the Chachapoyas people some 800 years ago.

Although most remain wrapped in their original textile coverings, others are bare and seem to make eye contact with you through the (secured!) glass window.

The museum has a range of other artifacts, spanning the Chachapoya and later the Inca.

What’s more, you can still visit the site where the remarkable collection of mummies was discovered. Laguna de los Cóndores is a 38-kilometer hike from the town and the clifftop tombs where the mummies were originally interred are still visible. 

20. Chavín de Huantar

Built sometime around 900 BC, the UNESCO world heritage Chavín de Huantar is a spectacular temple complex pertaining to the Chavín cult, which once housed around 3,000 priests at its peak in 300 BC.

This cult was established around the worship of a fanged, feline deity and its followers were enthusiastic takers of hallucinogenic drugs, namely the San Pedro cactus.

Many of the relief carvings still dotted around this vast archaeological site depict drug-inspired beings. However, to see the Tello Obelisk and Estela de Raimondi, pillars of polished granite with intricate carvings demonstrating the Chavín cult’s exceptional craftsmanship, you’ll have to head to the Museo Nacional de Arqueología, Antropología e Historia del Peru in Lima.  

Although some parts of the ruins are in a poor state due to earthquake and flood damage, Chavín de Huantar is one of the country’s finest – and most important – sites.

It certainly merits the bumpy and terrifying at times four-hour bus journey from Huaraz – which also offers dramatic views of the Callejón de Conchucos.  

21. Paracas National Reserve

A four-hour bus journey from Lima brings you to Paracas , one of the largest desert reserves in South America and which also encompasses coast and ocean, making it the perfect place to escape the chaos of the metropolis.

Explore hidden coves with turquoise waters and relax on the red-hued sandy beach of Playa Roja or keep your eyes peeled for abundant bird life, including pelicans and even flamingos on the northern coast of the reserve .

Just outside the reserve, boat excursions take you to the Islas Ballestas to spot Humbolt penguins, sea lions, humpback whales, and many other species.

It’s well-known as the “poor man’s Galapagos” and while it does offer a good opportunity to spot lots of wildlife, it’s a bit of a distance from Peru’s main sights and doesn’t warrant visiting unless you really want to see penguins.

Need help planning your trip to Peru?

My custom-designed itinerary planning service is all you need to plan a trip of a lifetime to one of South America’s most beguiling locations. Check out my Peru trip planning service for more information about how it works.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to book your trip to Peru through a local operator, check out this 15-day Best of Magical Peru tour from our trusted partner in Peru, Valencia Travel.

Hitting the country’s absolute highlights, this incredible tour will take you to unmissable Peruvian destinations including Machu Picchu, The Sacred Valley, Arequipa, Puno, and the Amazon Jungle.

22. Cajamarca

Cajamarca is one of northern Peru’s finest cities to visit. It found its place in Peruvian history as the city where the Inca Emperor Atahualpa was captured and killed by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro and his forces. 

Nowadays, this photogenic colonial city is jam-packed full of tourist attractions.

Head to its wide, landscaped Plaza de Armas to admire several elaborately carved Plateresque Baroque churches before continuing onto the final surviving Inca relic, a small, stone room where – legend has it – the ransom to free Atahualpa was stored.

Thousands of gold artifacts were brought here, purportedly reaching up to the line still visible on the aged walls.

Although most traces of the Inca have long since disappeared, you can still bathe like Inca royalty in the nearby Baños del Inca, a site containing pre-Inca thermal pools for a relaxing plunge.

Back in the city, the private collection at the Casa Museo Nicolás Puga takes you far further back into Peru’s pre-Hispanic times with its spellbinding array of Nazca, Paracas, Mochica, and Chavín stone artifacts and textiles.

Finally, a range of peñas (a classic Peruvian bar filled with liquor and criollo beats) brings you right up to modern-day Peru.

If you thought you knew anything about Peru’s ancient civilizations, then think again. Situated just inland in the Supe Valley, a three-hour bus journey north of Lima, Caral is the oldest city in the Americas.

Dating back to around 5,000 years old, it’s thought that construction started here around the same time as the Great Pyramid of Giza – although archaeological work didn’t begin until 1996.

The Caral culture was officially the oldest civilization ever uncovered in the Americas. 

Since then, six stone pyramids, many with a ceremonial purpose, and another 14 other buildings have been uncovered – with most of the site remarkably preserved for its age.

It’s easiest to visit with a tour from Lima, although public transport to Supe and then onward to Caral is also possible. 

24. Santuario de la Virgen del Rosario de Polloc

You probably wouldn’t think to stop at the tiny rural village of Polloc, a forty-minute bus journey on the road out of Cajamarca towards Chachapoyas. But trust me – you should. 

Tucked away from the main road, the murals adorning the Santuario de la Virgen del Rosario glint in the sunshine, which reflects off the thousands of small ceramic and glass tiles that wrap its external walls.

This tiny, colorful church definitely ranks among the most spectacular things to see in Peru – and one of the most hidden. 

Designed in greens, blues, and golds, a vast mosaic depicting nativity scenes and other religious events decorates the church’s exterior walls, continuing inside for a dazzling spectacle.

Interestingly, these striking murals are evidence of over ten long years of work – all completed by the patient hands of the church (and adjoining school’s) students.

FAQs about visiting Peru

Which part of peru should i visit.

Most visitors head to the south-east of Peru in order to head to the Sacred Valley and spend time at the archaeological wonder that is Machu Picchu , before potentially heading across to Lake Titicaca or down to Arequipa to explore the surrounding volcanic landscapes and Colca Canyon. 

However, if you’re looking for a destination with far fewer tourists, consider visiting the north of Peru. This region is packed with archaeological sites, such as Kuélap , that receive far fewer visitors but are significantly older than Machu Picchu!

What is the prettiest place in Peru?

It’s hard to pick just one! Machu Picchu is definitely a dramatic sight to see, regardless of the season, while the surrounding Sacred Valley is particularly pretty and green during the months of April and May following the rainy season. 

Another pretty place is the Pacific Coast, where white sand beaches in the resorts of Mancora and further north look out onto azure ocean.

What is the best place in Peru?

It really depends on what you want to do! If you’re into archaeological sites, then Machu Picchu and northern Peru (particularly around Trujillo, Chiclayo, and Chachapoyas ) are the best places to visit. If you want to hike, the high mountains of the Cordillera Blanca that are accessible from Huaraz will be more up your street. 

The Peruvian Amazon, particularly the Manu Biosphere Reserve close to Madre de Dios, is the best place in Peru for spying wildlife, including chatty monkeys, bizarre pink river dolphins, and even secretive jaguars.

What is Peru famous for?

Peru is most famous for Machu Picchu, a stone citadel located high in the mountains above the Sacred Valley that was built by the Inca. Peru is also famous for its cuisine; it’s considered to be home to some of the finest dishes in the world, including ceviche and even roast guinea pig.

Want more? 

Get more inspiration with our guide for a two-week to two-month and get all the information you need for planning a trip to Peru with The Rough Guide to Peru , for which, Steph, the founder of Worldly Adventurer, was one of the contributors. 

If you’re considering visiting Peru and want to escape the crowds or just want expert advice about the best destinations, hotels, and activities to do during your vacation, check out the Worldly Adventurer travel planning service for a custom-made itinerary tailored exactly to you and your upcoming trip. 

You can also read our guide to when to visit Peru for information on the weather you can expect during different parts of the year and which month is best for planning your trip, as well as our guide to how much you can expect to spend exploring Peru .

Tuesday 9th of July 2019

Wow! Very Good, informative article for anyone who wants to see more of Peru than the classic tourist route! Thank you! I've been backpacking Peru for a while, and literally loved the country! My favourite places are Huaraz region (and of course, Laguna 69) and the Rainbow Mountain hike!

Steph Dyson

Thursday 11th of July 2019

Glad you found the article helpful! Steph

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Then you’ll want to read on to uncover the very best destinations to visit in this iconic South American nation!

Peru truly is a spectacular country, and any trip here will without doubt be a memorable one. There's a reason why it's one of the most popular countries in South America !

From fiery volcanoes and tall snowy peaks, to Pacific beaches and the sweltering jungle, there’s all sorts of experiences to have in Peru.

It can often be somewhat difficult to plan a trip here, given the immense amount of places to visit.

In this guide, we’ll explore the 25 very best destinations in Peru, and why each is worthy in their own right.

I’ll also cover other important things you’ll need to know, like how to get around Peru, as well as the best time for a visit.

So, let's get started...

Travellerspoint

When is the Best Time to Visit Peru?

You probably already have an idea of where you want to visit in Peru, so the next important detail to look at is when is best to visit.

Peru is quite a big country, and is full of different terrains and microclimates, which can make things somewhat complicated when planning.

If you’re thinking of heading to just one or two destinations during your time in Peru, then it’s more simple to check the weather and best time to visit on WeatherSpark .

Whereas, if you’re planning to travel around different parts of the country, then you’ll want to read on. 

The dry season in Peru runs from April until September, and is the overall best time to visit for weather (in most parts of the country) . 

Although temperatures may be chillier in certain areas (most notable in Lima, Puno and Cusco), there’s much less rainfall, which is perfect for exploring and when heading out into nature.

Here’s some of the best times to visit for some major Peruvian destinations:

• Lima : November-February
• Arequipa : Year-Round!
• Cusco : June-September
• Puno : April-October
• Máncora : April-October

Getting around Peru: What’s the best option?

Peru is quite a rugged region, full of many incredible landscapes. 

Whilst this is great for adventure and trip inspiration, it’s not so good for logistics! 

Thankfully though, the bus system in Peru is pretty good, and is the main mode of transport we’ll use to get around. 

RedBus is the best site for buying bus tickets online, as they have the majority of routes covered, as well as most bus providers listed there for you. 

Some of the best providers include Oltursa, Cruz del Sur as well as Movilbus.

All have the usual seats (which are still pretty comfortable), as well as the more expensive VIP seats that recline a full 180°.

One of our top travel tips is to make the most of overnight buses as you'll save on accommodation this way too! 

The other option for getting around is using domestic flights. 

These are actually quite cheap, however are still more expensive than the bus. 

In some cases using a flight is pretty favourable, such as travelling between Lima and Cusco, as well as from the capital to Máncora in the north. 

In other cases flying is mandatory, such as when heading to Iquitos in the Amazon (there’s no roads leading here).

As always, use Skyscanner to compare the best dates and cheapest flights.

25 Places to Visit in Peru

Now it’s time for what you’ve been waiting for! 

Here I’m going to uncover 25 of the very best destinations. From popular areas to lesser known gems, let’s get stuck in. 

As a useful reference, I’ll group the destinations below depending on what you’re looking for (in order of appearance):

• The Beaches (Coast) : Lima, Paracas, Trujillo, Chiclayo, Máncora, Tumbes.
• The Andes (Mountains) : Marcahuasi, Huancayo, Puno, Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Aguas Calientes, Ayacucho, Huaraz, Cajamarca.
• The Desert (Arid) : Huacachina, Nazca, Arequipa.
• The Amazon (Jungle) : Puerto Maldonado, Chachapoyas, Iquitos, Tarapoto, Pucallpa, Oxapampa.

The bustling capital of Peru is often the first experience travellers get of this nation, and most tend to overlook it (which is a big mistake!). 

Within the historic centre we’ll find lots of history and architectural gems such as the Plaza de Armas, as well as the Basilica of San Francisco (with its creepy catacombs underneath too). 

This awesome sightseeing tour is the best way to see all of these highlights, with transport provided between them all.

The best area for a stay is in Miraflores, which is the cosmopolitan heart of Lima , and is much cleaner and safer too. 

Here you can rent a bike and cycle along the rolling hills above the Costa Verde, as well as go surfing if you can brave the cold waters! 

From here, you can walk around the ancient ruins of Huaca Pucllana , as well as head to the nearby hip district of Barranco. 

If you’re lucky and get a clear sky day here (trust me, it’s pretty rare unfortunately), you’ll want to summit nearby Morro Solar in Chorrillos for the best views over the capital.

With all these activities and attractions, it's no wonder that the city gets around 2.35 million international visitors each year1

There are endless things to do in Lima so where better to start your Peru trip?

Things to do in Lima:

• Explore the ruins of Huaca Pucllana
• Head to the Catacombs of San Francisco
• Get to the popular areas of Miraflores and Barranco

Where to Stay in Lima:

• Budget: Passion Hostel 
• Mid-Range: Selina Posada  
• Luxury: Innside Lima Miraflores 

2. Marcahuasi

This high altitude destination isn’t that well known amongst foreign tourists, however the Peruvians that have been constantly rave about it.

Located at an altitude of some 4000m, Marcahuasi is a mountain close to the small rural village of San Pedro de Casta. 

It’s around 5 hours driving from Lima, and is the perfect place to get into nature and off the beaten path. 

Be sure to bring coca leaves or altitude sickness medication, since the 2/3 hour hike up can be pretty exhausting otherwise! 

Once at the top you can set up camp, and then explore the Stone Forest, which is full of unorthodox, granite rock formations that resemble animals and human faces (all natural too, caused by erosion and powerful winds). 

As well as getting a necessary photo next to the picture-perfect entrance gate at the top, you’ll also want to walk on the rocky outcropping for the best views of the surrounding Andes. Be careful though, since there’s no rails and it’s a straight drop down!

This useful article by AllTrails gives an idea of what the hike around Marachuasi looks like, and also how long it could take you.

If you're looking for unique places to visit in Peru then this might just be the spot for you! 

Things to do in Marcahuasi:

• Explore the Bizarre Rock Formations
• Hike up for an epic Sunrise and Sunset
• Camp overnight for the best overall experience

Where to Stay in Marcahuasi:

• Camping on the Mountain (you’ll need to bring your own tent with you)

3. Huacachina

This desert oasis town is well on the touristy path, and is one of the most popular destinations to visit in all of Peru. 

Sandwiched between some of the tallest sand dunes in all of South America , Huacachina has a naturally forming lake right in the middle, which makes for a truly, once-in-a-lifetime photo! 

Although the town itself is pretty tiny, it’s the perfect place to get away from the grey skies of Lima for the weekend, and to soak up the rays in a pool or next to the lake (we’re in the desert after all).

One of the top things to do in Huacachina is to head on this combined tour , where you’ll go Sandboarding and also ride around on a Sand Buggy through the desert.

It’s a perfect option for those looking to get their adrenaline fix! 

I recommend going for the 4:00pm slot, where you’ll then be able to watch the crimson sunset over the epic dunes.  

Huacachina is located roughly 4 hours south of Lima, which can easily be reached by bus (you’ll first stop in Ica, then it’s a 10 minute mototaxi to this desert paradise).

There are endless things to do in Huacachina so what are you waiting for?

Things to do in Huacachina:

• Sandboarding down the Giant Dunes
• Chill by the Lake during the midday heat
• Take a Buggy Ride out into the Desert

Where to Stay in Huacachina:

• Budget: Wild Rover  
• Mid-Range: Hostel Boulevard
• Luxury: DM Hoteles Mossone 

This central coastal town lies just three hours south of Lima, and is usually travelled as a day trip by most tourists. 

However it’s really worth spending more time in this cute fishing village, given its abundance of awesome nature waiting to be explored. 

Paracas is mostly known for the close-lying Ballestas Islands , which are rocky islets home to many spectacular animal species, such as Humboldt Penguins as well as the Peruvian Pelican and Booby. 

You’ll need to head out on boat tour to visit these islands, where you’ll also visit the mysterious lines of Candelabro. 

It’s also worth heading to the Paracas National Reserve , where the desert meets the sea, as well as being home to a stunning red beach . 

Given the windy conditions, Paracas is also perfect for adventure sport enthusiasts, where many come to go Windsurfing and Kitesurfing. 

Paracas can easily be reached by bus from Lima, with frequent direct departures daily.

Things to do in Paracas:

• Visit the Ballestas Islands
• Tuck into some fresh, tasty Seafood
• Get your fix with some Extreme Sports

Where to Stay in Paracas:

• Budget: Kokopelli Hostel 
• Mid-Range: Paracas Guest House
• Luxury: Casa Paracas

When it comes to mysterious Peruvian destinations, Nazca for sure comes out near the top of them all. 

This small town is located within the arid desert, and is between Ica and Arequipa (making it a good stop-off point). 

The most famous thing here are the Nazca Lines , whose secrets are still hidden today (despite extensive research from many interested groups). 

With hieroglyphs as large as 1000 metres wide etched into the desert, here you can head on a small plane tour overhead for the very best views of these gems. 

See if you can spot the different symbols such as the Spider, Monkey and the Dog! 

For those looking to see these mysterious lines, here's a more in-depth guide to visiting the Nazca Lines !

Another worthy visit here is the chilling Chauchilla Cemetery , where you can see various ancient mummies and artefacts in their incredibly well-preserved states. 

The city itself of Nazca doesn’t have too much going for it, however the Plaza de Armas has its own character which is worth a visit. 

The bus from Ica to Nazca takes around 2.5 hours.

Things to do in Nazca:

• Fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines
• Tour through the spooky Chauchilla Cemetery

Where to Stay in Nazca:

• Budget: Jumana  
• Mid-Range: San Isidro Gran Hotel 
• Luxury: Casa Andina Standard 

6. Huancayo

Although rarely visited by tourists, this city is considered the main commercial hub of the Peruvian Andes.

With its unorthodox centre and sights , as well as some awesome sceneries, it’s a great place to get off the traditional Peruvian tourist path. 

Getting here is a real part of the adventure, where you can board the train from Lima to experience mesmerising landscapes until you reach Huancayo . 

Some of the best things to see in the city include the Parque de la Identidad as well as the Archaeological Site of Wariwillka. 

For those who love hiking, then the nearby Huaytapallana mountain range is a must, with incredible alpine lakes and towering mountains to be explored above the clouds! 

Last but not least, when in Huancayo, you must try the food. 

One of Peru’s top dishes - Papa a la Huancaina - originates from Huancayo, and will prove tastier here than in other regions. 

As well as the train , you can also reach Huancayo from Lima by bus, which takes around 8 hours.

Things to do in Huancayo:

• Hike Nevado Huaytapallana
• Try some authentic Andean Dishes
• Chill out in the Parque de la Identidad

Where to Stay in Huancayo:

• Budget: Hospedaje Nilton 
• Mid-Range: Hotel Las Lomas  
• Luxury: Hotel Presidente 

7. Arequipa

Now we head to arguably the most beautiful city in all of Peru, and a good contender for the entire continent too! 

Arequipa is set between three prominent volcanoes, which provide the perfect backdrop for some awesome photos (hint: you should head to the Yanahuara Mirador for some great shots). 

This city is also covered in white buildings, which were constructed out of the volcanic Sillar rock , excavated from nearby valleys. 

The historic centre is the best place to see the finest work, including the Plaza de Armas as well as the historically important Santa Catalina Monastery . 

Some of these volcanoes are hikeable as day trips, with El Misti being the most popular, and Chachani the most difficult (bringing back some bad memories for me… please take the altitude seriously on these hikes folks!). 

Also nearby is the breathtaking Colca Canyon , which is one of the deepest canyons on earth.  

It’s best to go with a multi-day tour , where you’ll visit many cute rural towns and other cool sites along the way. 

Arequipa is a 10 hour bus ride from Nazca, and roughly 18 hours from Lima.

Things to do in Arequipa:

• Hike Arequipa’s fiery Volcanoes
• Delve into the depths of the Colca Canyon
• Explore the Historical Centre

Where to Stay in Arequipa:

• Budget: Mango Hostel B&B 
• Mid-Range: Casona Plaza Hotel 
• Luxury: Palla Boutique Hotel 

Located on the cool shores of Lake Titicaca , Puno truly is a delight with its lakeside views.

Beauty doesn’t come without cost here though, given its very high altitude (which is the case for many Peruvian destinations within the Andes).

Located up at an elevation of 3827m, you’ll need to bring coca leaves and take it slow whilst your body adjusts to the more difficult conditions. 

The very best thing to do in Puno is to visit the stunning Uros floating islands .  

Just a short boat ride (around an hour from the harbour), these floating islands are made entirely out of the Totora Reed, a naturally-occurring plant found around the lake’s edge. 

Here you can get to know the indigenous locals, as well as ride around on the awesome colored boats! 

The best way to see these stunning islands is with an organised tour with many of them offering multiple departures throughout the day.

You can also head up (slowly of course, given the altitude!) to the Mirador El Condor for views over Lake Titicaca, as well as explore the Plaza Mayor with its impressive cathedral.

Puno is also a good jumping off point for those heading to Bolivia , with the bus and boat services easily connecting to nearby Copacabana.

The bus from Arequipa to Puno takes around 6 hours. From Cusco it’s a similar time too!

Here's some more information on things to do in Puno ...

Things to do in Puno:

• Visit the Floating Uros Islands
• Ride around Lake Titicaca on the Dragon Boat
• Head up to Mirador El Condor for awesome Lakeside views

Where to Stay in Puno:

• Budget: Kaaro Hotel Puno
• Mid-Range: Casona Plaza Hotel  
• Luxury: Hotel Hacienda Puno

Cusco is undeniably one of the best cities to visit in Peru, and no trip to the country is complete without spending some time here!

Sandwiched within the rocky Andes, Cusco is located at an altitude of 3399m, and also within the stunning Sacred Valley region.

Once the beating heart of the Inca civilization , today you can walk around the historic centre and see many ancient ruins and interesting sights such as Sacsayhuaman , and Qorikancha , as well as the bustling Plaza de Armas with its imposing Cathedrals. 

Cusco is also the perfect place to get to know the traditional Andean cuisine, with dishes like Cuy readily available in the San Pedro Market, as well as local restaurants such as Kusikuy . 

However, Cusco is all about the day trips you can take into the Sacred Valley. 

From stunning alpine lakes such as the popular Lake Humantay and the lesser-known Ausangate National Park , to the ruins of Moray and pools of Maras, you’ll have almost infinite things to see and do here! 

This day tour is one of the best out there for those wanting to explore the Sacred Valley, where you’ll see many of the top sites in just one day (perfect for those in a rush).

As you can see, there are tons of awesome things to do in Cusco so make sure you don't leave this amazing city off your itinerary!

Cusco can easily be reached by bus from Arequipa (10 hours) or Puno (6 hours), however from Lima the bus takes 24 hours, so it’s best to hop on a flight from the capital.

Things to do in Cusco:

• Explore the ruins of Sacsayhuaman and Qorikancha
• Get to know traditional Andean cultures
• Venture into Alpine Lakes and Mountains within the nearby Sacred Valley

Where to Stay in Cusco:

• Budget: Kokopelli Hostel  
• Mid-Range: Posada Villa Mayor 
• Luxury: Casa Andina Standard

10. Ollantaytambo

Many travellers who head to Cusco don’t even know about the different towns until they head out into the Sacred Valley. 

Ollantaytambo is a prime example, and is one that really has a lot going for it. 

The Pinkuylluna Archaeological Ruins is one of the highlights , with this fortress steeped on the edge of a cliff in the skies. 

As well as its diverse market that’s perfect for souvenir hunting, another must-visit here is the Inti Punku Sun Gate , which is the perfect area for a snap with its incredibly scenic background.

If you're planning on visiting lots of different destinations within the Sacred Valley, I’d actually recommend staying in Ollantaytambo rather than Cusco. 

Not only is it much closer to all the top sites, it also retains a much more authentic culture and vibe, with locals still following ancient traditions today from hundreds of years ago. 

The buses and local colectivos that run from Cusco to Ollantaytambo take roughly 1.5 hours.

If you're looking to visit Ollantaytambo then here's some information that you might find helpful...

Things to do in Ollantaytambo:

• Wander around this ancient city
• Visit the Pinkuylluna Archaeological Ruins
• Head up to the Inti Punku Sun Gate

Where to Stay in Ollantaytambo:

• Budget: Hostal Chaska Wasi 
• Mid-Range: Picaflor Tambo Guest House
• Luxury: Apu Lodge 

Similar to Ollantaytambo, Pisac is another small town located within the vast Sacred Valley region. 

Increasingly popular with tourists, Pisac has a very charming vibe with its narrow cobblestone streets, as well as a strong bohemian presence too. 

The market here is one of the best in all of Southern Peru , where you can pick up anything from alpaca garments and bags to trying various authentic Peruvian dishes. 

One of the very best things to see in this town has to be its archaeological site , which is built on top of a mountain and has tombs built into the side of it too! 

This town is also a good way to get acquainted with a more traditional, rural Peruvian way of life, which can be quite difficult in Cusco with its never ending bustle and noise. 

For those who want a new experience, consider looking into taking San Pedro . Just be sure to follow preparation guidelines properly before taking it.

A shamanic brew, it’s been known to cure health problems, and even help people find their own path in life. 

If you're wondering where to go in Peru then I highly recommend spending some time here! 

The bus from Cusco to Pisac takes around an hour to arrive.

Things to do in Pisac:

• Visit the Pisac Archaeological Site
• Wander through the town’s amazing cobblestone streets 
• Go Bargain Hunting in the Mercado de Pisac

Where to Stay in Pisac:

• Budget: Pisac Inn
• Mid-Range: Pisac Inca Guest House 
• Luxury: Florencio Casa Hacienda

12. Aguas Calientes

Set along the Urubamba river, Aguas Calientes is a small city that's mostly known as the stop-off point for those heading to Machu Picchu. 

Surrounded by thick jungle vegetation and high cliffs from all sides, it’s a really scenic area, and an ideal location to get away from the never-ending noise of Cusco. 

Of course Machu Picchu is the star highlight here, and really is stunning to see regardless of the time of year. 

With sweeping views from the top terrace, to friendly alpacas strolling around, it’ll be an unforgettable moment along your Peruvian trip. 

Trust me, you don't want to miss this UNESCO World Heritage Site as it's one of the country's top tourist attractions.

This ancient citadel can be reached with just a one hour hike from Aguas Calientes (or by using the buses that are constantly up and down the nearby mountain). 

You can also join a combo tour where they provide all logistics, as well as including an interesting guide who can teach you a lot around this legendary Peruvian site.

Other great things to do in Aguas Calientes include climbing Huayna Picchu for an incredible alternative view of the ruins (this hike is more demanding). You can also visit the hot springs too (the town's name translates to “Hot Springs” after all). 

To get here from Cusco, you’ll need to take buses (approx 4/5 hours) to the start of the train track.

This is then followed by either taking the train, or completing the 2 hour walk along the tracks. 

Things to do in Aguas Calientes:

• Visit the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu
• Rest tired legs in the Baños Termales
• Get to know the Plaza de Manco Capac

Where to Stay in Aguas Calientes:

• Budget: Nativus Hostel 
• Mid-Range: Sacred Stone Boutique Hotel 
• Luxury: Tierra Viva Machu Picchu Hotel 

13. Puerto Maldonado

Known as the gateway to Peru’s Southern Amazon, Puerto Maldonado is one of the best places to experience this rich jungle. 

With wildlife endemic to just this area of the world, you can easily take a multi-day tour into the jungle to see the very best of this ultimate South American gem.

Here you can see everything from Caiman and Capybara to the elusive Jaguar , as well as climbing a canopy tower for some insane Amazon views.

You can also stay deep within Tambopata national reserve which offers you a better chance to spot wildlife!

Within the actual city itself, a great thing to do is to climb the Obelisco tower which is in the very heart of town.

At the top you’ll have some of the best views of Puerto Maldonado, contrasted with the formidable jungle behind.

The Plaza de Armas is a nice place to come for a stroll, with this one more relaxed when compared with other, busier Peruvian cities.

You’ll also want to visit the Isla de los Monos, where you’ll see many different species of monkeys as well as having a chance to go zip-lining through the jungle! 

The closest city to Puerto Maldonado is Cusco. Whilst flying is the preferred method of getting between the two, the cheapest way is to take a bus which takes around 10 hours.

Things to do in Puerto Maldonado:

• Head on a multi-day Jungle Tour
• Visit Monkey Island for a quick and easy day trip 
• Climb the Obelisco Tower for the best views over Puerto Maldonado

Where to Stay in Puerto Maldonado:

• Budget: El Fauno Hostel 
• Mid-Range: Hotel Principe I
• Luxury: Wasai Puerto Maldonado Eco Lodge  

14. Ayacucho

Located within the Southern Peruvian Andes, Ayacucho is another very pretty city to visit whilst in Peru. 

Known as the “City of the Churches”, there’s a good 33 dotted around here, meaning there’s going to be at least one that takes your fancy (I tried visiting them all in a day and failed spectacularly. The altitude I guess…). 

The historic centre is the best place to base yourself, with some really scenic streets such as 28 de Julio which leads towards the picturesque Plaza de Armas. 

One of the most popular sights close-by is Millpu , which are a series of stunning, cascading blue waterfalls (or green depending on cloud cover and time of year). 

These pools are undeniably one of the most beautiful places in Peru so you don't want to leave this spot off your itinerary!

The best way to visit this gem is with a day tour where you’ll also have a traditional sierra lunch prepared for you. 

You’ll also want to visit the Huari archaeological complex, which was once one of the largest urban cities in ancient Peru.

Here's some more information on things to do in Ayacucho ...

Things to do in Ayacucho:

• Visit the Cascades of Millpu
• Stroll around the heart of Ayacucho 
• Explore the Huari archaeological site

Where to Stay in Ayacucho:

• Budget: Hotel Misky Samay 
• Mid-Range: Platero Hotel 
• Luxury: ViaVia Cafe Ayacucho 

The unofficial hiking capital of Peru, Huaraz is the ultimate destination for mountain lovers and trekking enthusiasts alike. 

Sandwiched between the Cordillera Blanca (which is the highest tropical mountain range in the world) and Huascarán national park , travellers spend weeks at a time here getting to know the very best areas.

Alpine Lakes are amongst some of the most popular, with Laguna Parón renowned for its large blue lake and surrounding snow-tipped peaks. 

Laguna 69 is another lake which is more challenging, but features a glacial lake that is so perfect, you would have thought it was designed by the gods. 

Other awesome day trips include the hike up Nevado Mateo, a trip to the high altitude Pastoruri Glacier as well as visiting the pre-Incan ruins of Chavín de Huántar . 

There’s also many multi-day hikes to do here too, such as the popular Santa Cruz trek , as well as the Huayhuash circuit.

The city of Huaraz itself is typical of a Peruvian Andes town, with its bustling Plaza de Armas nice for a midday stroll. 

The bus from Lima to this mountain paradise takes roughly 8 hours.

This Huaraz travel guide will help you plan your trip as it includes what to do here, where to stay, and some other top travel tips! 

Things to do in Huaraz:

• Hike the unforgettable Huayhuash and Santa Cruz circuits
• Visit stunning Alpine Lakes
• Explore the ancient ruins and temples of the Chavín tribe.

Where to Stay in Huaraz:

• Budget: Selina Huaraz 
• Mid-Range: Ebony Hotel 
• Luxury: Hotel La Joya 

16. Trujillo

Situated along Peru’s long Pacific Coast, Trujillo is known for its abundance of ancient ruins, as well as for its beaches and local culture. 

The best area for a stay is within the district of Huanchaco, a sleepy surfer’s area that runs along the coast. 

Without a doubt the best site to see here is the ruins of Chan Chan , which are known to be one of the largest ancient adobe cities on earth. 

It’s best to visit in the morning before the crowds arrive on buses, and also to avoid the sometimes overbearing heat here too. 

You’ll also want to make stops at the Huacas del Lunar y Sol , two other pyramids close to Trujillo.

This combined tour includes entrances to all of the ruins mentioned above, including a couple of extras too!

This city is also known for its impeccable surfing conditions, so regardless if you’re a pro or just starting out, this is a good place to hit the waves.

Other worthy things to see and do in Trujillo include walking around the historical centre, which is full of colourful buildings and Spanish architecture.

I also recommend heading on a Caballito de Totora boat ride (a traditional fishing boat that’s been crucial for Trujillo’s industry and growth for over 3000 years). 

The bus from Lima to Trujillo takes between 10/11 hours.

Things to do in Trujillo:

• Visit the expansive Chan Chan ruins
• Lounge on the beach in Huanchaco (or go surfing)
• Explore the colourful architecture in Trujillo’s Historic Centre

Where to Stay in Trujillo:

• Budget: Punta Huanchaco 
• Mid-Range: Hotel Bracamonte 
• Luxury: Costa del Sol Trujillo Centre 

17. Chiclayo

Chiclayo sits along Peru’s Pacific coast, in the popular northern region of Lambayeque. 

Most travellers usually pass through Chiclayo on the way to the beaches in the north, or at best spend a couple of days here.

However this major coastal city is home to many interesting ruins and sites , and is worth a trip here in itself. 

Whilst located more inland than say Trujillo, there is the nice beach of Pimentel close-by which is great for a much needed time-out. 

One of the best things you can do in Chiclayo is to visit the Tombs of Sipán with this all-inclusive tour . Sipán was an ancient ruler of the Moche civilisation, whose pristine preservation helps give us more of an insight into how cultures of these eras used to live. 

It’s also worth heading to the pyramids of Chotuna and Chornancap for some more exploring. 

The bus from Lima to Chiclayo takes around 13 hours in total.

Here's a guide to Chiclayo if you're wanting to learn more!

Things to do in Chiclayo:

• Explore the Tomb of Sipán
• Relax on Pimentel Beach
• Visit Chiclayo’s Historic Centre 

Where to Stay in Chiclayo:

• Budget: Hotel Plazza 
• Mid-Range: Casa Huéspedes Pimentel 
• Luxury: Sunec Hotel 

18. Cajamarca

A Peruvian city with much historic importance , Cajamarca is indeed a great place to visit to learn more about the real Peru (and not just the touristy version - as much as I love that part too). 

Cajamarca was the last city to fall from Inca rule to the Spaniards , and as such Peruvians here have maintained their identity and cultural heritage exceedingly well. 

This can be best seen with the locals walking around, from how they dress to their daily activities and lifestyles.

The Baños del Inca are located here, with these hot springs once used by the elite centuries ago. 

Today they’re still in operation, and you can go for a dip yourself, which is a nice way to change up the day! 

The Ventanillas de Otuzco is another must-visit when here, as well as the Ransom Room (where the last Inca emperor was imprisoned before his execution). 

Be sure to walk up the many stone steps to the top of Cerro Santa Apolonia, which features a pretty church as well as some awesome cityscape views. 

The bus from Chiclayo to Cajamarca takes roughly 7 hours, whilst from Lima it will take around 15 hours.

Things to do in Cajamarca:

• Go for a dip in the Baños del Inca
• Hike up to the Mirador of Cerro Santa Apolonia
• Visit the nearby Ventanillas de Otuzco

Where to Stay in Cajamarca:

• Budget: Hotel San Francisco 
• Mid-Range: El Portal Del Marques
• Luxury: Costa del Sol Wyndham Cajamarca 

19. Chachapoyas

One of my all-time favourite destinations in Peru, Chachapoyas has a tonne going for it. 

With incredible waterfalls, mountain fortresses and remote hiking paths, you’d think it would be highly visited among tourists. 

However it’s not!

For this reason I love it, since you’ll see all the best things in an authentic way, without the crowds of tourists constantly breathing behind your neck.

Whilst here, you’ll want to make various day trips to see the best of the region. 

One of these is Yumbilla Falls , which at a grand height of 895m, is the 5th tallest waterfall on the planet.

Gocta Falls is another fan favourite with its longer hiking path and beautiful sceneries. 

This area of Peru is also known for the Chachapoyas culture, an ancient civilization known as “The Warriors of the Clouds”. 

You can visit their fortress of Kuelap with this awesome tour (including the cable-car ride), which lies on the edge of a mountain.

It was so formidable and well defended, that even the Incas had a hard time conquering it! 

The Sarcophagi of Karajia is another must-visit, which features 6 oversized sarcophagi on a mountain ledge, containing the human remains of some of the most important Chachapoyas leaders. 

The city of Chachapoyas itself is very relaxed and has its own vibe, which is best seen in and around the Plaza de Armas and along the busy Jirón Amazonas. 

As you can see there are tons of things to do in Chachapoyas so what are you waiting for?

Chachapoyas is an 8 hour bus ride from Cajamarca. 

From Lima, it will take a hefty 24 hours straight!

Things to do in Chachapoyas:

• Hike to Yumbilla Waterfalls
• Get to know the ancient Chachapoya Culture 
• Visit the stunning fortress of Kuelap

Where to Stay in Chachapoyas:

• Budget: Aventura Chachapoyas Backpackers
• Mid-Range: Casona del Rosario
• Luxury: La Xalca Hotel 

20. Iquitos

Located deep within the Amazon jungle, Iquitos is by far the most inaccessible destination of all on our list - despite being a large city. 

This is because it's entirely cut off from civilization by dense jungle, and is the largest city in the world that can’t be reached by road! 

Due to its location, it’s by the far one of the best places to kickstart a tour into The Amazon Jungle. 

This multi-day tour starts from Iquitos, and will allow you to explore virgin rainforest, catch pirañas, swim with pink dolphins and see a whole bunch of rare and exotic animals. 

Just be aware that the seasons can vary dramatically here, which can make some parts of the jungle (and what you’ll see) unreachable.

The city of Iquitos is pretty hectic, and you’ll want to ride around on a few moto-taxis to get into the swing of things. 

The Plaza de Armas is worth a visit, as well as the nearby town of Nanay.

Here you can rent a boat and guide for the day, visiting a butterfly farm, local tribe and spotting giant anacondas along the way. 

From Iquitos, you can also take a river cruise to reach Pacaya Samiria Reserve, but you'll need to get to Nauta Port first.

As already mentioned, it’s impossible to reach Iquitos by land. 

The easiest way is to fly from Lima which takes a couple of hours. Otherwise, from Pucallpa you can take a boat, however this can take up to 5 days!

This Iquitos travel guide includes everything you need to know for exploring the Peruvian Amazon...

Things to do in Iquitos:

• Explore the most biodiverse Jungle on Earth
• Swim with Pink River Dolphins
• Visit nearby Nanay for more unique experiences 

Where to Stay in Iquitos:

• Budget: A&T Amazon Backpackers 
• Mid-Range: Safari Hotel Iquitos 
• Luxury: El Dorado Classic Hotel 

21. Tarapoto

Peru is known for its expanse of jungle and green foliage, with many awesome destinations to choose from. 

However Tarapoto is different since it’s located in the high jungle region, and thus has its very own unique atmosphere. 

There are many awesome sights worth seeing here, such as the infamous hand of the Taytamaki Mirador which stretches out over the jungle (the best place for a photo). 

Whilst most eco-centres don’t usually make a travel list, I have to say that the Centro Urku really stands out from the rest. 

As well as seeing rare animals such as Ocelots and Otters, you’ll also learn about their conservation efforts, successes, and current challenges they’re looking to solve. 

Your entrance ticket helps them massively, so you’ll feel proud of yourself too when walking around. 

As well as visiting these sites in the city (along with strolling around the beautiful Plaza de Armas here), there’s many awesome experiences out in the nearby region too. 

Some of the best include the hikes to the waterfall of Ahuashiyacu and that of Pishurayacu, as well as exploring the Laguna Sauce. 

The closest major city to Tarapoto is Chachapoyas, which takes roughly 8 hours. 

From Lima it’s best to fly here (1.5 hours), since the bus is going to take roughly 30 hours in total.

Things to do in Tarapoto:

• Head up to the Taytamaki Mirador
• Visit Ahuashiyacu Falls
• Learn in the Centro Urku

Where to Stay in Tarapoto:

• Budget: Tengana Hospedaje y Tours
• Mid-Range: Hotel Fatima Inn 
• Luxury: Pumarinri Amazon Lodge

22. Pucallpa

This jungle city is slowly gaining mainstream exposure, with many who head here interested in a very different Peruvian experience. 

Pucallpa is where the majority of Shipibo healers come from, who work with natural plants such as Ayahuasca to help cure physical problems and also provide spiritual guidance. 

Whilst most still head to Iquitos for this (since it’s more touristy), you’ll find the scene more authentic and fresh in Pucallpa . 

This city is located on the Ucayali River (one of the major rivers flowing into The Amazon), and thus is a great starting point for treks into the jungle. 

There are many multi-day treks you can embark on here, where you’ll leave the bustle behind and explore hidden species and landscapes on your journey. 

Another worthy spot to visit is the Plaza de Armas, which has many interesting human statues in its gardens, as well as its unorthodoxly shaped Cathedral. 

The bus from Lima to Pucallpa takes roughly 16 hours, so you may want to consider flying instead.

Things to do in Pucallpa:

• Head into the Amazon Jungle
• Visit Laguna Yarinacocha
• Visit the Plaza de Armas and its stunning Cathedral

Where to Stay in Pucallpa:

• Budget: Hospedaje Independencia 
• Mid-Range: Hospedaje El Virrey
• Luxury: Casa Andina Select 

23. Oxapampa

When you think of coming to Peru, you usually imagine the following; traditionally-dressed locals, huge swatches of green jungle, ancient ruins and some friendly alpacas too. 

I can bet my left arm and leg that visiting a German colony probably didn’t make your original thoughts! 

In the mid 1800s, many German immigrants moved to this isolated town in Peru, and now we have a European-inspired town in the middle of the Amazon jungle.

The town of Oxapampa is located in the high jungle region of Pasco, and truly is a unique place to visit.

You’ll see many typical architectural styles and buildings from Western Europe here.

They also have their very own Oktoberfest - where those will finally be rewarded for their ability to consume inhuman levels of alcohol. 

When you’re not dying from a resaca , then you’ll want to head outdoors given Oxapampa is known for its adventure experiences. 

Zip-lining through the canopy is a popular activity, whilst you can also head to the mysterious Tunqui Cave for some surreal sights and exploring. 

Although on a map it seems like a trek to get to, you can take a direct bus from Lima to Oxapampa in just 11 hours (sounds a lot but trust me, this is a relief given other routes you may need to travel in Peru!). 

Things to do in Oxapampa:

• Zip-line through the Jungle Canopy
• Marvel at its European Architecture 
• Head to the nearby Tunqui Cave

Where to Stay in Oxapampa:

• Budget: Suzet House 
• Mid-Range: Hotel Heidinger 
• Luxury: Carolina Egg Gasthaus 

24. Máncora

Whilst Peru isn’t exactly known for its beaches, the north has some very good areas for bathing in the sun and living the good life. 

Máncora takes the cherry, and is by far one of the most popular areas for a beach vacation (for both nationals and tourists alike). 

Almost 1000km north of Lima, the scenery in Máncora drastically changes, as well as being accompanied by a big heat boost. 

Here you’ll find palm-fringed beaches such as Las Pocitas and nearby Punta Sal, with the waters ideal for swimming and some surfing too. 

Another awesome thing to do here is to head on a Humpback Whale tour, where you’ll see these beauties as well as some friendly turtles too (the whale season here is between June until October). 

Máncora itself is a mixture of low developed roads (where you’ll fly around on a moto-taxi), and bustling hotels and restaurants catering for the mass of tourists arriving. 

It’s got a really lively nightlife scene too, which would probably rank as one of my all-time favourites in Peru. 

Hostels like The Point and Selina usually have good parties most nights of the week, where they then tend to spill out onto the street and into nearby bars.

Here's some more information about visiting Máncora ...

Things to do in Máncora:

• Relax on some stunning Pacific beaches
• Watch Humpback Whales from June until October 
• Get involved with the wild party scene

Where to Stay in Máncora:

• Budget: Wild Rover 
• Mid-Range: Ku-Lodge Máncora 
• Luxury: Don Giovanni Máncora 

Right next to the border with Ecuador, Tumbes is one of the most northern-lying cities in the country. 

It's also one of the most underrated places to visit in Peru, with it usually being quickly visited by tourists as an entry or exit passage. However, I think it’s worth spending a few days here given it has some unique attractions worth seeing. 

The biggest of these is its Pacific Tropical Forest, home to several mangrove swamps. 

It’s in fact the only of its kind in all of Peru (pretty surprisingly, considering how much jungle there is here). 

You can head on a tour here, where you can visit the sole habitat of the Peruvian crocodile, as well as the endemic Mono Coto Howler Monkey.

The Plaza de Armas in town is a nice spot to visit, home to a stunning mural which is perfect as a background for a snap. 

From Tumbes you can also visit some low-key remote beaches, which are much more relaxed than the busier ones near Máncora. 

Some of the best include Playa Hermosa and Playa Cruz. 

There are several ways of getting to Tumbes, with the most popular being a crossing point from nearby Cuenca in Ecuador. 

Tumbes is just a 2 hour bus north from Máncora, whilst it’s around 22 hours from Lima (it’s worth flying instead).

Things to do in Tumbes:

• Tour around the Mangrove Swamps
• Relax on Hidden Beaches
• Wander around it’s cute Plaza de Armas

Where to Stay in Tumbes:

• Budget: Guest House Tumbes 
• Mid-Range: Rizzo Plaza Hotel 
• Luxury: Costa del Sol Wyndham Tumbes 

Where will you visit in Peru?

And that’s all for this guide to the best places to visit in Peru!

This diverse country is home to numerous idyllic landscapes and colonial cities , and sometimes it can be hard to make up your mind where’s best to go.

In this guide I’ve covered 25 of the very best destinations you can visit, and why each is unique and deserves their own place along any Peruvian itinerary .

I’ve also covered other things you’ll need to know, including the best time to visit Peru, as well as how to get around this Latin American nation.

Just keep in mind that many of these destinations are scattered across the country, so you'll need to prioritize where you'd like to visit! 

I hope you enjoy your time in Peru as much as I did!

Here are some other guides that you might find helpful for planning your trip:

• Peru Packing List
• The Best Things to do in Peru
• Backpacking Peru Itinerary

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The 20 Best Things to Do In Peru (Chosen by Experts!)

There are tons of things to do in Peru! With 30 of 32 of the world’s climates, Peru contains beaches , mountains, desert dunes, and the Amazon rainforest. Whether Machu Picchu has been on the bucket list for years or Rainbow Mountain has recently piqued your curiosity, Peru can satisfy any type of traveler’s sense of wanderlust.

Make your trip one for the books and the gram with our Top 20 Things to do in Peru.

1. Eat at the World's Best Restaurant

2. take the perfect picture at machu picchu, 3. drink & learn how to make a pisco sour, 4. enjoy the ballestas islands, 5. fly over the nazca lines, 6. explore the mighty peruvian amazon, 7. trek to glacier lagoons, 8. visit the floating islands of lake titicaca, 9. examine pre-columbian erotic pottery at the larco museum, 10. explore cusco with the cusco tourist ticket, 11. hike to lake 69, 12. hike to rainbow mountain, 13. go sandboarding in the huacachina oasis, 14. swim with turtles, 15. hike the inca trail to machu picchu, 16. visit the millpu pools, 17. enjoy dinner at an ancient pyramid, 18. see the otherworldly maras salt ponds, 19. sleep in air capsules, 20. climb the misti volcano.

Nestled in the beautiful coastal capital of Peru in a charming Bohemian district of the city, you will find Central Restaurant, the world's best restaurant in 2023.

You won't find the typical food of Peru here, but rather a gastronomy experience like no other. Each dish is an entire ecosystem on a plate, and attention to detail in how every ingredient is placed turns each plate into a work of art.

World-renowned chef and founder Virgilio Martinez and his team draw inspiration from the depths of Peru’s natural landscape and embark on regular expeditions to the Andean nation's remote regions, allowing them to discover new ingredients and learn about the ancient techniques of the locals.

Every visitor to this jewel will be left in complete awe!

Some examples of what you can expect at Central Restaurant.

Machu Picchu Tours :

The most famous of Peruvian landmarks, bringing in over 1.5 million visitors per year, the best thing to do in Peru is to visit the World Wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu . And, of course, you’ll want to take an awesome photo of the World Wonder!

The citadel is located in a geographical area called a “cloud forest,” making this sacred Incan site a mystical destination to visit any time of the year. The best time to visit Machu Picchu tends to be during the dry season between April and May and September and October. However, even if you’re planning on traveling to Peru during the rainy season, don’t let a little rain get in the way of taking the perfect picture at Machu Picchu !

• Pick up some hats or Peruvian textiles in Cusco from the San Pedro Market. Alpaca sweaters, poncho, or blankets are great to add some color to your photo.
• Perspective photos make for great keepsakes. You can stamp your passport ahead of time with the Machu Picchu stamp near the exit to add in your photo of the real ruins. Or you can bring along a Polaroid camera, like an Instax- Mini, that will develop instantly and include that in your photo.
• Or make it a romantic one to remember by taking the perfect proposal photo!

Tip: Ask your guide to help you take the perfect photo, more often than not they’re also great behind a camera. Start planning your Machu Picchu tour with one of our travel advisors now!

Piece of history. Photo by Willian Justen de Vasconcellos on Unsplash.

Peru is known for its popular alcohol, Pisco, a colorless or yellowish-to-amber-colored spirit produced in the winemaking regions of the Andean country. It was developed in the 16th century by Spanish settlers in South America.

To make a Pisco Sour, just combine Pisco with lime, egg whites, and simple syrup. You can also mix in some delicious Peruvian flavors, such as passionfruit, to take the traditional cocktail to a whole new level!

While most cooking classes teach you how to make this classic drink, another option is to head to the Museo del Pisco for samples and lessons or do a Pisco tasting tour in the place where it all began, Pisco, Peru!

No Peru trip would be complete without at least a taste of its namesake sour!

A Passionfruit Sour and Pisco Sour on a sunny afternoon in Cusco. Photo by Daniella B.

A six-hour journey along the Peruvian coast will get you to the majestic Ballestas Islands, a small group of islands that are home to some of the world's most charming and beautiful animals, including colonies of sea lions, seals, penguins, and seabirds, such as blue-footed boobies.

Boat tours leave from the nearby coastal town of Paracas and generally take around two hours. You cannot land on or explore the rocky islands on foot, but the boats will get you close enough to appreciate all their beauty.

This is undeniably one of the most spectacular things to do in Peru!

Spectacular view of one of the Ballestas Islands. Ballestas islands, Peru, Nature image. Photo by taiklee on Pixabay.

The Nazca Lines (sometimes spelled Nasca) are massive-scale images drawn into the desert sands, preserved for hundreds of years by the dry climate. Today, their purpose remains a mystery.

Why is this one of the best things to do in Peru? Drones from National Geographic recently discovered more than 50 new Nazca Lines, making these 1,000-year-old drawings relevant archeological finds today.

If you’re into art history, archeology, ancient aliens , or simply love seeing a country from above, we believe a flight over the Nazca Lines is worth your time!

Tip: Make sure to take some anti-nausea medicine beforehand. While the motion on the plane ensures everyone gets the perfect picture, it tends to make some feel queasy.

The monkey is one of the most famous Nazca Lines. Photo by Janeth Charris from Pexels.

Peru has no shortage of stunning attractions, and the Amazon Rainforest ranks high on the favorites list. There are two main hubs from which nature lovers can explore the Peruvian Amazon. Puerto Maldonado and Iquitos , both of which can be reached via a short flight.

You can sleep in a treehouse, fish for piranhas, visit the clay licks, discover a new species, or take a luxury Amazon River cruise , and of course, keep your eyes peeled for the rare pink dolphin, jaguar, and the large array of other mammal and bird species. These are but a few activities that will keep you entertained during your visit.

The Peruvian Amazon is definitely not a destination that you want to miss on your journey through Peru!

The view of the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest from above. Photo by Lizzie Thomas

Peru has thousands of glacial lagoons, making it a glacier lagoon paradise. The Cordillera de los Andes mountain range, one of the world's longest, is responsible for the formation of these mystical water masses. In addition to the lagoons, the mountain range features rugged peaks, deep canyons, large abysses, quaint snow, glaciers, volcanoes, grassland, desert, and forests, making it the perfect terrain for treks and day hikes!

If you are not an avid hiker but still wish to take in Peru's stunning natural scenery on foot, you can absolutely do so, as not all the treks are challenging, and you can opt for one of the less challenging treks or even a day hike.

Humantay Lake - Peru. Photo by Willian Justen de Vasconcellos on Unsplash .

Not only is Lake Titicaca the largest lake in South America, but it is also the highest navigable lake in the world and home to the pre-Incan Uru people and their extraordinary floating islands . These floating islands were hand woven from reeds growing naturally in the lake and were originally used as a defensive strategy during the Inca invasion, and while this threat is long gone, the lifestyle has managed to live on.

Today, visitors can take tours of the islands to learn more about their ways of life and even participate in homestays with local families. Experience Peruvian culture and the surreal feeling of taking your first step onto these reed islands by adding a Lake Titicaca tour to your Peru adventure!

A floating island on Lake Titicaca. Island, Lake, Titicaca image. Photo by PublicDomainPictures on Pixabay.

The Larco museum is one of the country's finest and offers one of the largest, best-presented displays of ceramics in Lima. In an 18th-century viceroy’s mansion, visitors can appreciate numerous galleries showcasing works from over 5,000 years of Peruvian history, which include more than 50,000 pots with ceramic works from the Cupisnique, Chimú, Chancay, Nazca, and Inca cultures. Highlights include the sublime Moche portrait vessels and a Wari weaving that contains 398 threads to the linear inch—a record. In addition to the ceramics, there’s also gold and jewelry.

Lastly, as the heading suggests, visitors can also visit the gallery housing the collection of Pre-Columbian Erotic Pottery. The museum believes this is a unique and interesting opportunity for people to approach sexuality free of their own prejudices. By appreciating the large collection of these pre-Columbian celebrations of sex, visitors can also begin to understand the Peruvian ancestors’ relationship with nature, the divine, and each other.

If visiting museums fascinates you, this is definitely one you don't want to miss!

There are so many things to do in Cusco , and the Cusco Tourist Ticket is by far the easiest way to cross them all off your to-do list in Peru!

The Tourist Ticket, also known as the Boleto Turistico, is a ticket bundle that gives you entry to museums, ruins, and sites all around Cusco . Spend your time acclimating to the high altitude of Cusco City (11,150 ft above sea level) with some easy exploration at places like Sacsayhuaman , the Museum of Contemporary Art, or head to Qosqo de Arte Nativo to see some folkloric dances, Peruvian textiles, and traditional Peruvian art.

Opt for the full ticket if you have two or more days in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. It is valid for 10 days and gives you access to 16 different sites!

Megalithic walls at Sacsayhuamán near Cusco, Peru. Photo by Ruben Hanssen on Unsplash.

Nestled in the mountains in Huascaran National Park, 57 miles from the city of Huaraz, you'll find the mystical Lake 69, or Laguna 69, as it's called in Spanish. To reach the lake, you will need to embark on a challenging but exhilarating hike, but rest assured, you will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of glacial turquoise waters surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of Huascaran National Park.

The lake has become one of the best hikes in Peru as of late, and it’s no surprise why! It has also put Northern Peru on the must-visit list for many travelers. Are you one of those wanderlusters?

The sparkling crystal blue water of Laguna 69 makes this hike one you won't soon forget! 10.5 Laguna 69-14 by Esmee Winnubst , used under CC BY 2.0 / Cropped and compressed from original

Rainbow Mountain, also known as the Mountain of Seven Colors, or Vinicunca in the Quechua language, sits at a whopping 15,000 feet above sea level. Despite the altitude, it's still an awesome experience to do on your Peru trip.

Amazingly, this geographical wonder was unknown to the population until as recently as 2015, but now it attracts about a third of the number of visitors as Machu Picchu, and it’s no surprise why! The minerals and sediments in the rock and soil have created a multi-colored landscape that makes for incredible photos. Getting there is challenging, but absolutely worth it!

Tip: Hike to Rainbow Mountain on your last full day in Cusco instead of at the beginning of your trip. It’ll give you more time to acclimate beforehand.

Rainbow Mountain, Cusco, Peru. Photo by McKayla Crump on Unsplash.

At first glance, you might think of the Sahara Desert, but this tiny oasis village named Huacachina is actually in Peru! It is located just four hours from Lima, in the same province as the Nazca Lines. The small town is built around a natural desert oasis, and the mud from the lagoon is believed to have therapeutic properties, so don't be surprised if you see tourists and locals covering themselves with it!

In addition to the oasis itself, tourists and locals mainly visit Huacachina to enjoy different sports activities, such as sandboarding. This is just like snowboarding, except you'll be boarding on the fine-grained sand of the desert instead of snow. If this is completely new to you, no problem; simply lay on your stomach on the board and go “sand sledding.”

As you can see, this is another exciting activity not to miss out on on your trip to Peru.

Have you ever been to an oasis? Photo by Willian Justen de Vasconcellos on Unsplash.

With 1,500 miles of coastline, it only makes sense that Peru makes it on the list of the best beaches in South America . The northern beaches of the country draw in surfers, those looking for relaxation, and those looking for new and unique travel experiences, like swimming with sea turtles!

Daily tours will take you out to El Ñuro where you will have a chance to swim with these friendly creatures for about 30 minutes. It is advisable not to touch them, but be aware that they are not shy and will likely approach you! Unsurprisingly, this experience is considered by many visitors to be the best part of their journey through Peru.

Tip: Bring along some extra soles, as guides in the water can take photos of you interacting with the sea turtles for a small additional charge.

A sea turtle comes up for air in El Ñuro in Mancora, Peru. Photo by Wikimedia Commons

While the most common way to reach Machu Picchu is by train and bus, one of the best ways to see the citadel is by hiking the world-renowned Inca Trail . Get your first views of Machu Picchu by walking the same pathway used by the ancient Inca over 500 years ago! This is a rewarding hike for avid hikers, history lovers, and those wanting to experience their first views of Machu Picchu at sunrise.

You can do the full 4-day Inca Trail, which involves camping, or you can do the shorter 2-day version of the Inca Trail, which involves no overnight camping, if that’s not your style. The 2-day version is a great option for anyone who wants to add some adventure activities to their Peru trip without wanting to overdo it.

Keep in mind that permits for the Inca Trail can sell out quickly, so make sure to plan your Peru trip well in advance if you have specific dates in mind for your hike.

The road to Machu Picchu. Photo by KAL VISUALS on Unsplash. div

Nestled about halfway between Cusco and Lima in Ayacucho, you'll find the Millpu Pools, a hidden gem and one of the lesser-known attractions in Peru. The pools are a bright turquoise color and almost look otherworldly. The water in the pools comes from nearby glaciers. There’s also a gorgeous waterfall here, the Mollepata waterfall, which is well worth visiting.

To get there, you can either take an overnight bus from Lima or a guided tour from Ayacucho. From the starting point, there is a 25-minute hike to the pools. The hike is slightly challenging, so a reasonable level of fitness is advised, but the views of the pools from the trail are absolutely worth it!

Tip: It’s best to visit the Millpu Pools in the dry season, which is from May to September, as heavy rains may restrict access from Ayacucho.

The Millpu Pools. Photo by @oneoceanaway_ (via instagram)

Dotted throughout the modern city of Lima are immense huacas, or pre-Incan temples. If you’re looking for things to do and a great place to enjoy a meal in Miraflores, one of these huacas, or more specifically, Huaca Pucllana, is a great choice and can be visited by any curious wanderer every day except on Tuesdays.

While visiting Huaca Pucllana restaurant during the day is still a wonderful experience, we recommend that you opt for a later tour and stay for dinner, and be sure to request a seat out on the terrace, as this historical landmark in Lima is illuminated at night, making for an incredible backdrop to your meal.

Huaca Pucllana is a famous landmark in Lima that can be viewed and enjoyed from the restaurant. Photo by Huaca Pucllana Restaurant

The Maras Salt Ponds are a slightly lesser-known historic and cultural site. Approximately 30 miles from the city of Cusco, strategically dug into the mountainside, you'll find thousands of shallow pools filled with salt water.

These impressive collections of Inca salt pools have been in operation for more than 500 years and are still operated by current local families, who use evaporation to harvest salt.

Disclaimer: Peru has limited tourist access to the Maras salt pans. As of June 15, 2019, tourists are banned from entering the crystallized pond area due to contaminants found in the salt. Tourists will still be able to learn about the salt pans with a guide and be taken to spectacular viewpoints.

Salar de Maras. Photo by Thomas Griggs on Unsplash.

Nowhere else in the world except at the spectacular Skylodge in Peru can you spend the night in a glass capsule hanging from the side of a cliff. Imagine sleeping in a fully transparent capsule 1,300 feet above the ground! Don't worry, though; even at this height, you will have access to a comfortable room, a complete bathroom, and a dining room.

There are two ways to reach the Skylodge Adventure Suites. The first option is via ferrata, which involves climbing between the mountains through a suspension bridge and up to a hanging shelter. This is the better option for climbers without much experience. The second and more extreme option is ziplining. There are seven different sections of 492–2296 ft. (150–700 m) each until you reach the lodge. Does this sound like something you would want to do?

This is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you are guaranteed to make lifetime memories!

Cliffside pods at Skylodge Adventure Suites. Image: " SkyLodge Adventure Suites " by F Delventhal is licensed under CC BY 2.0 .

Peru is very well known for its wide variety of hiking, trekking, and climbing options, and while the world-renowned Inca and Lares Trails are incredible, another great option or alternative, especially for those looking for something different, is Peru's Misti Volcano.

This is by no means an easy climb, but it is one of the least technical high-altitude hikes in the world and unquestionably worth it. Before attempting the climb, you will need to make sure that you are properly acclimatized, as climbing an almost 6,000-meter volcano is serious business!

If you're into hiking,climbing, and trekking and looking for a unique experience, then climbing the Misti Volcano is definitely something you should look into.

Spectacular view of the Misti Volcano. Arequipa, Peru, Misti image. Photo by ClauTValdivia on Pixabay.

With such a wide variety of places to see and things to do in Peru, your Peru tour can be as fun, adventurous, or relaxing as you want!

Ready to check these 20 things to do in Peru off of your list? Book your visit to Peru today and customize your trip with one of our travel experts.

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru

Written by Lana Law Updated Oct 14, 2022

Peru is a country of history, culture, beauty, and adventure, with a full spectrum of possibilities for travelers. The ancient Inca City of Machu Picchu is one of the highlights of any trip to South America, but there is much more to discover throughout Peru.

You can take a boat trip on the highest navigable lake in the world, look out over one of the deepest canyons in the world, try your luck sandboarding in the dunes, hike in the Andes, or fish for piranha in the Amazon . Other attractions and things to do in Peru include exploring the mysteries of the Nazca lines, walking through ancient ruins in the Sacred Valley , or experiencing modern Peru while wandering the streets of Lima.

The diversity of the landscape, the people, and the experiences here make Peru one of the most unique destinations on the continent. Find the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Peru.

1. Machu Picchu

2. the inca trail, 3. cusco's architectural treasures, 4. lake titicaca, 5. colca canyon (cañon del colca), 6. nazca lines, 7. the sacred valley, 8. ollantaytambo, 9. arequipa's historical city center, 10. puerto maldonado and the amazon, 11. lima's historic center, 12. ica and the sand dunes at huacachina, 13. pisco and the ballestas islands (islas ballestas), 14. sillustani, 15. barranco, 16. cordillera blanca, 17. saqsaywaman, 18. salcantay.

Perched high upon a ridge, 300 meters above the Urubamba River, the majestic Inca City of Machu Picchu is one of the most dramatic settings of a ruined city anywhere in the world. Almost as impressive as the ruins themselves is the spectacular backdrop of steep, lush, and often cloud-shrouded mountains.

Standing near the caretaker's hut, looking out over Machu Picchu, the jungle-covered mountains, and the river far below, you can imagine why the Incas chose this place to build their city.

Hiram Bingham came across Machu Picchu in 1911 and believed until his death that it was the "Lost City of the Incas," first documented by Spanish soldiers in the 1500s. However, historians believe the real lost city of the Incas was at Espíritu Pampa, a ruin Bingham knew of but discounted as being insignificant.

The journey is also part of the experience of visiting Machu Picchu, whether it's by hiking the Inca Trail or seeing the route by train. In either case, it's impossible not to be inspired by the scenery. Trains leave from Cusco , Ollantaytambo , or Urubamba to Aguas Calientes .

From Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu, a bus takes you up to Machu Picchu, about a 20-minute drive along a harrowing switchback road. It is possible to walk up this road to the site, but this is a long, uphill climb and not recommended.

The admission rules are that you must tour with a guide, you must follow a set tour route. You also have to enter the park at a designated time. Be aware that many websites say they sell tickets, but be sure to go to the official site .

The high season is June to August, but the two months on either side of this also see decent weather and can be a good time to visit with fewer crowds.

Read More: Best World Heritage Sites

The famous Inca Trail is a four-day hike, which terminates at Machu Picchu , and is regarded by many as the highlight of their trip to Peru. This scenic trail is often more demanding than what many people are expecting, but it's also rewarding and one of the most popular things to do in Peru.

A couple of different starting points for the Inca Trail exist, but the traditional four-day hike begins at km 82 of the Cusco - Aguas Calientes rail line. From this point, the trail passes more than 30 Inca ruins and traverses through spectacular scenery. The most difficult portion of the trail is the second day of the hike, with a climb of 1,200 meters in elevation gain and two high passes.

The hike must be done with an agency, and reservations should be booked well in advance, particularly in the high season of June to August.

Some agencies offer a shorter version of the hike , which entails either the last two days or just the last day of the hike. There are campgrounds at intervals along the trail and one at the base of Machu Picchu.

Depending on the type of tour, hikers can either carry their own backpack or have it transported for them. The daily number of hikers and porters on the trail is strictly enforced.

Walking through the streets of Cusco is like wandering through a museum, with history built upon history in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inca ruins have been used in the foundations of many of the lovely old colonial buildings lining the narrow roads, showcasing the city's long history.

The main square, Plaza de Armas , in the city center is home to the Cathedral and La Compania , two equally impressive structures. The square is also a great place to start a walking tour, grab a meal, or people watch during the day.

And while there are countless buildings and museums worth visiting, the church of Santo Domingo, resting on the ruins of the Inca site of Coricancha, is one of Cusco's must-see attractions.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cusco

The sparkling blue water of Lake Titicaca is surrounded by rolling hills and traditional small villages. The lake area is a mix of beautiful scenery and culture that sets it apart from other regions of the country. Sitting at 3,820 meters above sea level, Lake Titicaca is known for being the highest navigable lake in the world.

A boat trip to the islands and surrounding villages is the best way to appreciate the lake. One of the main tourist attractions is the Uros Floating Islands (Islas Flotantes), which sustain small communities of Uros Indians. These are man-made islands constructed of reeds that have sustained a traditional way of life since the time of the Incas.

What you'll see on tours to these islands is designed for tourism, but it does offer a glimpse into a traditional way of life. The floating islands are only one very small part of Lake Titicaca's attraction, with the real charm lying in the small villages in the hills along the shores of Titicaca and on the main islands of Isla Taquile and Isla Amantani .

The main gateway to Lake Titicaca is the city of Puno , where you'll find hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies. There are trains and buses to Puno and flights in and out of the nearby city of Juliaca.

Although it was once thought to be the deepest canyon in the world, Colca Canyon (Cañon del Colca), twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, is the second deepest after nearby Cotahuasi Canyon . The canyon reaches a depth of 3,400 meters and is the result of a seismic fault between two volcanoes. At the base far below is a winding river.

The Colca Canyon area has been inhabited for thousands of years and was home to the Collagua, Cabana, and eventually the Inca peoples. Stone terracing along the canyon walls dates to AD 800 and is still in use today.

The canyon is about a four-hour drive from Arequipa . Day trips to the canyon are available from Arequipa but two or more days are recommended considering the driving time involved in accessing the canyon. Besides gazing out at the canyon, there are also hot springs, churches, villages, and Inca ruins to explore. Condors are also a big attraction in Colca Canyon as they soar past the cliff walls.

The mysterious Nazca lines are an unusual sight that will leave you with a sense of awe. These huge images on the desert floor were relatively undiscovered until planes flying over the area in the 1920s saw the lines from the air and realized they formed distinct patterns and images.

Until that time there was some recognition of the hillside drawings near Nazca and Paracas, which can be seen from ground level. However, the huge drawings on the flat desert floor are so large that it requires an aerial view to be appreciated.

From the air, it is possible to see 70 different plant and animal drawings as well as hundreds of lines and other geometrical shapes. Some of these lines stretch as long as 10 kilometers, and they are spread over hundreds of square kilometers. Most notable among the figures are a lizard measuring 180 meters long, a condor with a 130-meter wingspan, and several others that include a monkey, hummingbird, killer whale, and spider.

Although it is not known exactly who created the lines or how and why, theories hold that the lines were the product of the Paracas and Nazca cultures sometime between 900 BC and AD 600. Why they were created is the subject of much debate. Some of the theories put forward suggest the lines were a type of astronomical calendar for agriculture, an alien landing pad, a running track, walkways joining ceremonial sites, or part of a water cult.

The lines were created by removing the dark surface layer of stones and piling them at the sides of the lines, creating a contrast between the dark stones and the exposed lighter soil below. Flights can be booked in advance or on a walk-in, first-come first-serve basis.

Approximately four kilometers outside of Nazca are the Cantalloc Aqueducts . Built around AD 300 to 600, the aqueducts were designed to provide a year-round water source for the area. They conduct water from the mountain springs down to Nazca by means of underground canals. Some of the Cantalloc Aqueducts are still used by farmers in the area.

Also of interest in the area is the Cemetery of Chauchilla, which contains Nazca remains and mummies.

Less than an hour's drive north of Cusco is the beautiful Sacred Valley and the towns of Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. This fertile valley has many Inca ruins worth exploring but is also a peaceful area to spend some time wandering through markets or soaking up local culture.

Among the highlights in the valley are the Pisac Ruins and the Sunday Market in Pisac (smaller market days are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays). Here, you'll find an amazing selection of local handicrafts.

A little out of the way but worth the trip is the town of Moray with circular terracing used as an agricultural testing area by the Incas. You've probably seen photos of the perfectly circular terraces on social media sites and other tourist sites.

Researchers feel that this innovative style of farming was the Inca's version of a greenhouse. Different levels and different areas had warmer or cooler temperatures along with more or less sun. Moray is located near the small village of Maras and is at a gasp-inducing elevation of 11,500 feet.

While visiting Moray, be sure to stop in and see the salt mines at Salinas . These fascinating mines have been in use since the time of the Incas. The Salinas mines produce a sought-after pink color salt along with traditional white salt.

The intricate set up of the salt mines is the main attraction here. The high-saline-content water emerges from a spring at the top of the mine and is routed through a complex set of canals through square evaporation ponds.

An ideal place to snap a photo is from the top of the salt ponds, where you'll have the white salt ponds juxtaposed against the backdrop of the green valley in the distance.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Sacred Valley, Peru

The ruins and fortress at the beautiful little town of Ollantaytambo should be on your list of places to see when visiting the Sacred Valley. The town is very walkable and fun to explore. Like Pisac, it's home to an excellent assortment of vendors selling handmade handicrafts.

It's a photogenic spot with two imposing Inca ruins towering over the village. Take a bit of time to wander up the hill and explore the ruins. Highlights include the impressive Wall of the Six Monoliths and the Bath of the Princess. Nearby are the Terraces of Pumatillis and the Pinkuylluna, an ancient storehouse.

Arequipa, at more than 2,300 meters, is often regarded as Peru's most beautiful city. Set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, the city center is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arequipa's main claim to fame is the old architecture constructed of sillar stone, a volcanic rock that radiates a bright color in the sunlight. Most of the colonial buildings in the historic city center are made from this stone, giving rise to its nickname of the "white city."

Arequipa is also often a stopping-off point for those looking to visit the Colca Canyon (Cañon del Colca), which is about a four hour's drive from the city.

Just a half hour flight from Cusco, Puerto Maldonado is a key jumping-off point for tours of the Amazon . This is a completely different experience than what you will find in other parts of Peru, with hot humid jungle and a chance to see all kinds of unique wildlife. Caimans, capybara, monkeys, parrots, turtles, and piranhas are what you can expect to find in this part of the country.

The Reserva Nacional Tambopata and the Parque Nacional Bahuaja Sonene are the two main attractions, and they are well serviced by a number of jungle lodges. The Reserva Nacional Tambopata jungle lodges are approximately a one-hour boat ride from Puerto Maldonado. Parque Nacional Bahuaja Sonene is across the river from the Parque Nacional Madidi in Bolivia and takes about four hours to reach by boat. Tours typically range from a couple of days to week-long adventures.

Lima's Historic Center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was founded in the 1500s and, although many of the original structures were destroyed, it still holds significant historical value and is a beautiful place to wander around.

One of the most pleasant places to visit in Lima is the main square, Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor), in the heart of the city's historic district. A majority of the structures were rebuilt following the devastating earthquake of 1746. The highlights around the Plaza de Armas are the cathedral on the east side and Government Palace (Palacio del Gobierno) on the north side. Also of interest are the Archbishop's Palace and the Casa del Oidor .

Leading off the square is the pedestrian street, Jiron de la Union , with shops, restaurants, and the historic Iglesia de La Merced .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lima

For the sporting type looking to try something a little different, the oasis resort of Huacachina on the outskirts of Ica has just the answer. This picture-perfect, palm-fringed resort town just west of Ica is situated around a lagoon surrounded by huge sand dunes, some of which reach 1,000 meters in height.

People come here to try out the sport of sandboarding. Similar to snowboarding, sandboarding involves surfing down the sand dunes on specially made sand-boards, which can be rented in the area. For the less coordinated, renting dune buggies is another great way to get out and enjoy the landscape.

Ica is slightly higher than the ocean and consequently is not affected by the usual coastal mist like other towns along this stretch. The town has a year-round sunny and dry climate, making it a good place to visit at any time.

The main reason to come to Pisco, about 200 kilometers south of Lima, is to see the nearby Islas Ballestas and the Reserva Nacional de Paracas on the Paracas Peninsula . Almost directly west of Pisco, the Islas Ballestas, sometimes referred to as the "poor man's Galapagos ," are home to hundreds of thousands of birds, large colonies of sea lions, pelicans, penguins, and dolphins.

Boat tours from Paracas and Pisco, which visit the islands daily, leave in the morning. The full tour takes you past the "Candelabra," a hillside geoglyph seen from the coast, and then spends a considerable amount of time boating around the islands watching for wildlife. This tour is generally a half-day trip, returning around noon.

The Paracas Peninsula , jutting out into the Pacific Ocean just south of Pisco, is home to the Reserva Nacional Paracas and the largest section of protected coastline in Peru. The shoreline of the Paracas Peninsula supports a huge variety of wildlife, with approximately 200 species of seabirds, two types of sea lions, a rare type of otter, and the endangered Humboldt penguins.

Sillustani, outside the city of Puno and not far from Lake Titicaca , is the site of some of the area's most impressive funerary towers (chullpas). Standing as high as 12 meters, these structures were built by the Colla people around AD 600 to bury their nobility. Entire families, along with food and personal possessions, were buried in these cylinders.

Most of the towers are set in a scenic area along the bank of Lake Umayo, just walk up a hill from the parking lot to the plateau above. The towers stand at the far end of the field with the lake behind. Below the parking lot is a small marshy lake where locals can be seen poling along in their boats, harvesting reeds.

The quaint hillside district of Barranco, just south of Central Lima and Miraflores, is a charming area within easy commuting distance of downtown Lima. With unassuming colorful colonial architecture lining the narrow streets and hillside ocean views, the area offers a much more relaxed pace than the city.

The area has long been popular with artists and poets, giving it a Bohemian feel. This is a great place to wander in the afternoon or enjoy a meal, particularly at sunset, at one of the restaurants overlooking the ocean. Besides the atmosphere, the one main tourist attraction in Barranco is the Puente de Los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs) .

A stunning area of mountains and valleys, the Cordillera Blanca draws mountain climbers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. The Cordillera Blanca is home to Peru's highest peak, Huascaran. Also located in the same area of the Andes are sixteen other mountains over 6,000 meters in height.

Getting here takes a bit of work, and you need to be well prepared if you are planning an excursion into the heart of this region. The weather is extremely changeable; it can be snowing one minute and then blazing hot the next.

Some of the most notable treks include the Santa Cruz, the Alpamayo, and the Rurec Shaqsha. The best time to visit is from April through to October.

If you are staying in Cusco, an afternoon or day trip to nearby Saqsaywaman is definitely in order. This site with its towering monoliths of rock is located high above the city at a gasp-inducing altitude of 3,701 meters (12,142 feet).

The site is notable for the massive blocks that have been intricately fitted together without the use of mortar. It's due to this incredible feat of engineering that the fortress walls have been able to survive devastating earthquakes that have destroyed parts of nearby Cusco.

The spectacular mountain peak known as Salcantay is fast becoming a "go-to" hiking destination in Peru. Towering above the surrounding landscapes, the 20,574-foot-high peak is jaw-droppingly beautiful but fortunately not overrun with visitors.

The easiest way to see Salcantay is hike the Salcantay Trail – a 37-mile (60-kilometer) trek that ends at Machu Picchu. Along the way, you'll ascend to 15,190 feet (4,630 meters) above sea level at your highest point, an elevation sure to take your breath away. Don't despair, you can soothe all your sore muscles in the hot springs in Cocalmayo along the way.

More on Peru

The 25 Best Places to Visit in Peru

Peru often becomes a favorite destination for many visitors. With its fascinating history, diverse culture, delicious food, and a multitude of things to do, it’s easy to see why. Peru famously offers one of the New7Wonders of the World at Machu Picchu. But you can also enjoy beautiful historic cities from the Spanish colonial period, taste unique and delicious cuisine, and find some of the world’s top luxury experiences.

Sometimes overlooked, Peru is also home to the second largest area of the Amazon Rainforest. And this guide will mention a few remarkable areas to enjoy this vast region. Because of Peru’s diversity, this is a summary guide of the 25 Best Places to Visit in Peru to help you make the most of the country. So let’s get started.

The Tambopata National Reserve

Machu picchu, the pacaya samiria national reserve, peru’s cloud forest, colca canyon, the tamshiyacu tahuayo reserve, the ollantaytambo ruins, the manu rainforest, the paracas national reserve, the ballestas islands, the huacachina sand dunes, the huascarán national park, rainbow mountain, sacsayhuaman, lake titicaca.

A beautiful protected area in southern Peru, the Tambopata National Reserve offers some amazing wildlife opportunities. Covering a little over 3.6 million acres of species-rich rainforest, the reserve connects with surrounding conservation areas. Tambopata is part of one of the world’s largest sections of protected tropical forest.

A phenomenon of this region is that there are more clay licks here than anywhere else on Earth. The licks are visited by macaws and other animals to obtain salts and medicines. This means that you can see hundreds of colorful macaws in one area, and this increases your chance of spotting iconic predators, including ocelots and jaguars. Not only a great place to find parrots, the clay licks are also visited by rainforest mammals, such as tapir, peccary, and even monkeys.

Rainforest lodges have been built in a responsible manner near the clay licks, which means you have almost guaranteed wildlife viewing. The Tambopata lodges in deep rainforest also report higher chances of jaguar sightings than anywhere else in Amazonia.

In addition to the clay licks, this area of the rainforest has many different oxbow lakes. Formed when the river changed direction, the lakes attract a variety of fantastic animals. Some of the favorites to see are the giant otters, hoatzin birds, and colorful herons, but also the many monkeys that visit the lake edges to feed.

If you would like to explore Tambopata, there are fantastic Amazon tours in Peru to make the most of Tambopata Reserve and other areas of the Peruvian Amazon .

The most famous sight in Peru, Machu Picchu draws over a million visitors each year to marvel at this incredible and beautiful Incan structure. Perched high on the Andes, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed landmark was a 15th-century Incan site. It is thought to have been built for emperor Pachacuti who lived between 1438 and 1472. This was at the pinnacle of the Inca Empire, and Machu Picchu stands prominently atop the mountain as if to highlight Inca dominance.

While looking at the structure, it’s hard to believe that the Spanish had no idea of its existence. The Inca kept Machu Picchu a well-kept secret from the world until the expedition of the American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911. This means that for nearly 500 years the only people who knew of Machu Picchu were the people living nearby.

Now one of the world’s most visited sights, you can visit Machu Picchu from Cusco by enjoying the Vistadome or luxury-class Hiram Bingham train from Poroy Station. And the best way to visit Machu Picchu is on a combination tour with some of the astounding sights around Cusco.

The birthplace of the Incan Empire, Cusco is now one of the major tourist cities in Peru, as it’s the base to enjoy the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Although the entry point to Peru’s popular attractions, the city itself is definitely worth exploring for a couple of days or more, as there are some fantastic things to do in and around Cusco.

The entire city has been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The reason for this is that Cusco was built on the historic Incan capital. This means you can find the Spanish colonial buildings built on Incan foundations. Even the main city plaza is in the place of a historic Incan square, which is guarded by the Cusco Cathedral constructed on the ruins of an Incan palace.

Enjoy some of the world’s most historically fascinating city walks as you navigate the narrow cobblestone streets lined with giant Incan stones. Above this, you will see the wooden balconies and Spanish brickwork with the merging of two contrasting cultures.

Peruvian cuisine offers another journey into the merging of distinct cultures. You can find some fantastic restaurants in Cusco to try local cuisine. Some recommendations include Museo de Pisco, where you can also try variations of Pisco sour, the national drink, and Faustina for delicious Peruvian cuisine. You can also head to Kusikuy if your curiosity gets the better of you and you would like to try guinea pig, which is a traditional Andean food.

From Cusco, you can enjoy guided tours to explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. We will mention some of the favorite sights from Cusco on this page, such as Machu Picchu above, but also the Incan and pre-Incan structures of Ollantaytambo, Moray, and Sacsayhuaman.

The Pacaya Samiria National Reserve is one of Peru’s largest protected areas. A mostly flooded reserve of the Amazon Rainforest, the Pacaya Samiria is known as the ‘mirrored forest’ due to the water’s beautiful reflections.

Because of its incredible size and protection, you can find many animals and plants within the Pacaya Samiria Reserve. Spot colorful birds, several different types of monkeys, delicate orchids, bromeliads, and tall emergent trees. Surrounded by lush vegetation, incredible wildlife, and reflective waters. We rank the Pacaya Samiria as one of the best places to visit in Peru.

On fantastic Pacaya Samiria cruises, you won’t simply be confined to the vessel but will instead head out on small group tours. Enjoy guided expeditions along the waterways to find howler monkeys, capuchins, toucans, colorful macaws, pink river dolphins, and more.

Because this is a large protected area extending over 5 million acres, the best way to enjoy the Pacaya Samiria is on a river cruise. To visit the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, you will first fly to Iquitos in northern Peru. After arrival in Iquitos, you will be collected by your booked tour and will be transported to Nauta, which is your gateway to this incredible region.

A cloud forest is defined as a forest at such a high altitude that it’s penetrated by cloud cover. The high altitude, temperature differences, and sloping nature of the terrain have created one of the world’s most species-rich biomes.

Although threatened, the environment contains a record-breaking diversity of animals and plants. For example, this is where you will find the world’s highest diversity of hummingbirds. You will find many orchids, bromeliads, and different monkeys.

You can visit the cloud forest of Peru from Cusco by enjoying a stay at different cloud forest lodges.

This region is also where you can find Peru’s national bird, the bright red cock-of-the-rock. In fact, on guided tours, you can visit the dancing ground where the birds display to potential mates with a colorful and showy dance.

Enjoy guided tours to explore the cloud forest to find many different birds, including the national bird already mentioned, but also different hummingbirds, toucans, and tanagers. In addition to birds, you can find capuchins, wooly monkeys, bromeliads, and delicate orchids.

There are walking trails from the lodges where you can see different cloud forest habitats, including bamboo areas and mountain streams.

Another of Peru’s favorite places, covering 50 miles and descending 6,000 feet, Colca Canyon is the world’s second deepest canyon.

The region provides beautiful scenery, and you can often see the famous Andean condors gliding above.

In addition to the beautiful scenery and astounding features of the canyon itself, you can find Incan remnants dotting the region. You will also see the small viscachas (a chinchilla relative) darting between the rocks.

There are fantastic walks to enjoy in Colca Canyon and also some great lodges, which offer spectacular views. Another of the favorite things is that many locals still wear traditional Andean dress, which means the region offers some interesting cultural experiences.

Built by the mysterious Chachapoyas of northern Peru, Kuelap’s size and design make it one of the only structures in Peru that can rival Machu Picchu in significance. As with Machu Picchu, this is another remarkable structure that remained completely unknown to the Spanish.

The Chachapoyas are known as the ‘cloud people’ because they lived in the mountains in an area of cloud forest. The ruins of Kuelap themselves consist of a high-walled fortress built around the 6th Century AD. Although being built at this time, Kuelap was inhabited until the Spanish conquest of South America.

The wall surrounding Kuelap reaches 65 feet high and was built with large pink granite stone. Although lesser known than Machu Picchu, the size of Kuelap combined with the scenery of the impressive cloud forest make it one of Peru’s must-visit attractions. Surrounding the structure, you will enjoy delicate orchids, bromeliads, and lush vegetation.

Nestled in an area of Peruvian rainforest beside the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve mentioned further up, the Tamshiyacu Tahuayo Reserve is better explored from a rainforest lodge. This is because the Tamshiyacu area contains more accessible higher ground forest where you can explore the Amazon on foot.

Home to an impressive diversity of animals, the Tahuayo Reserve is a great place to find several different monkeys. Enjoy spotting howler monkeys, capuchins, squirrel monkeys, titi monkeys, and saki monkeys. Although rarely seen, a much-loved species in the protected area is the uakari monkey, which was a main reason for the reserve’s foundation.

You can find many animals and plants in the reserve, including iconic rainforest species. Recently, camera traps have even captured images of a black jaguar roaming the reserve.

The favorite animals and plants you’re likely to see in the reserve include the different monkeys mentioned above, but also two species of sloths, river otters, blue and yellow macaws, parrots, tanagers, trogons, colorful cotingas, delicate orchids, and tall emergent trees. A favorite sighting hard to see in southern Peru are the mysterious pink dolphins that often make an appearance, especially over the dry season.

Chan Chan is the world’s second-largest adobe city and was built by the Chimú culture of northern Peru. This was the most significant structure of the Chimú and was the largest pre-Columbian city in South America. And it makes Chan Chan one of Peru’s best places to visit.

Located on the coast of northern Peru, the weather is sunny and warm, and even the name ‘Chan Chan’ simply means ‘Sun Sun’ in the Chimu language.

Chan Chan is found in Peru’s Moche Valley and was once the capital of the Chimor Empire from AD 900 to 1470. This was until Chimor fell to the Inca Empire led by Topa Inca Yupanqui. The Chimu were the last culture that stood any chance of challenging the Inca civilization.

Around 50,000 people were thought to have lived in Chan Chan at the height of the Chimor Empire. While walking around this incredible city, there are ten thousand different structures you can see, giving insight into the significance of the Chimu culture.

Differing from Machu Picchu and Kuelap, Chan Chan was well known to the Spanish. The Chimu were well known because of their gold and the Spanish were quick to loot the city after their conquest. The gold was then sent to Lima for its journey to Spain aboard the famous Spanish galleons.

Another of Peru’s main tourist sights accessed from Cusco, the Ollantaytambo Ruins, are famous for being the only area where the Inca actually won a battle against the technologically advanced Spanish conquistadors.

Ollantaytambo is a pre-Incan fortress that was used as the royal estate of Inca Pachacuti in the 15th Century. However, it was the Manco Inca Yupanqui who led the attack against the Spanish.

This was one of the last Incan strongholds against the conquistadors. As the Spanish approached below to begin their attack, the Manco Inca ordered a barrage of boulders, arrows, and spears onto the conquistadors. Combined with the flooding of the area due to the Inca’s remarkable knowledge of irrigation, this led to the Spanish retreat.

Located in the Sacred Valley by the Patacancha River, you can visit Ollantaytambo on day trips from Cusco. It is often combined with other nearby attractions.

The lowland rainforest surrounding Manu National Park is a famous area for an Amazon Rainforest experience. Along with the Tambopata Reserve, the Manu rainforest has been mentioned in various nature and adventure publications because of its incredible wildlife.

Some of the most fascinating features of the Manu rainforest are the abundant clay licks, which hundreds of colorful macaws visit to obtain medicinal and salt-rich clay. Lodges have been built in a responsible manner to give guests almost guaranteed sightings of these incredible birds.

One of the most thought-provoking tourist sights of the Incan Empire, Moray is a large array of concentric circular terraces.

The terraces are 100 feet deep in some areas, which left archaeologists puzzled over their purpose. With ongoing research, it was discovered that the terraces were filled with soil from all over the Inca Empire. Also, the temperature can differ by 27°F between the lowest and highest level. With this information, it’s now thought that Moray was an Incan laboratory for selecting crop varieties.

The Incan and other Andean cultures managed to create thousands of different maize and potato varieties. Moray could provide insight into how this fantastic agricultural feat was achieved.

Moray is not as popular as the other Incan sites. However, the area provides a fantastic look into the lives of Andean communities during the Inca Empire. Because Moray is located close to other better-known sights, you can visit Moray along with other Incan ruins when touring the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Sitting in the Amazon Rainforest of northern Peru, Iquitos is one of the main gateways to the Peruvian Amazon . However, most people are collected and returned to the airport in Iquitos before and after their Amazon tour.

If you have the time, we recommend a day or two to relax a little and learn about this fascinating rubber boom city. There are some interesting things to do in Iquitos, including visiting the butterfly farm, seeing a beautiful lake, enjoying different museums, and trying traditional jungle cuisine. To mention one of many unique points about the city, Iquitos is the largest city in the world unconnected to any other by road. This alone has left a unique feel to the city streets.

Iquitos grew from a Jesuit mission during the rubber boom of 1879 to 1912. This is when the rise of the bicycle and automobile caused a great demand for rubber, which was sourced from the rubber trees that grew in the Amazon Rainforest.

The rubber barons who owned the plantations built elaborate mansions, which have now been converted to restaurants, hotels, cafes and supermarkets. While walking the streets, you can identify these historically fascinating buildings by their elaborate tiling and windows.

A famous building in Iquitos is called the Iron House. Unbelievably, the Iron House was shipped all the way from Paris after a rubber baron saw it during an architectural exhibition. It now stands in Iquitos city opposite the Plaza de Armas.

Another fascinating place you can visit in Peru, Sipan, is an archaeological site from the Moche Civilization and dates to between 50 – 700 AD. The site is where the Moche buried members of their royalty, and there are different elaborate tombs to find.

The most famous of the tombs is called the Lord of Sipán, and much of what we know of the Moche is from this one tomb. Researchers have found evidence of human sacrifice, and there are artifacts depicting ceremonial burials.

Drawings of items found within the tomb indicate sacrifice, bloodletting, and decapitation. In addition to the drawings, archaeologists also discovered other human remains in the tomb, along with some large knives.

You can visit the site from the city of Chiclayo. Although Sipan is the most well-known remnant of the Moche culture, there are many pyramids and other remains found in the nearby Moche Valley.

A uniquely attractive city in Peru, many of the historic buildings in Arequipa were crafted from locally available white volcanic rock. In addition to these buildings and Spanish colonial architecture, the city is backed by three volcanoes creating spectacular scenery.

Some of Peru’s favorite dishes originate in Arequipa, and you can enjoy some delicious restaurants. Enjoy walking the streets to marvel at beautiful buildings and visit interesting museums. Like Lima and Cusco, Arequipa’s Historic Center is also listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Arequipa is a fantastic place to visit and is Peru’s second-largest city after Lima. This is also the gateway to other fantastic places in Peru, such as Colca Canyon mentioned further up.

The Paracas National Reserve is one of the lesser visited attractions Peru has to offer. Covering over 500,000 acres of land and coastal waters, the reserve contains remains of the mysterious Paracas culture.

You can learn more about the Paracas culture in the small museum near the reserve entrance. The reserve is also the location where archaeologists discovered some of the oldest human remains in the Americas, which date to over 8,000 years ago.

The reserve is also a good area for bird watching, as 200 birds can be spotted in the region. The wildlife you can see includes the Chilean flamingos as well as sea lions. For some more wildlife, you can head to the Ballestas Islands.

Located a short boat ride off the coast of Peru, on the Ballestas Islands, you can find sea lions, pelicans, cormorants, and Peruvian booby birds. While enjoying the boat ride to visit the islands, you can look back to see the mysterious candelabra etched in the rock, which is just one of the region’s many prehistoric geoglyphs.

Huacachina is your oasis in the middle of the Peruvian desert. The oasis is fringed with palm trees and is surrounded by different restaurants, cafes, and hotels. This is a great place to relax after your adventures on the surrounding sand dunes.

Located about 5 km from Ica, this is also where many Ica residents relax on a weekend. However, it’s adventure-seeking tourists that make up a large portion of Huacachina visitors. The sand dunes are some of the largest in the world, which you can explore on sand buggies or by sandboarding for a fun adventure sport.

The feeling on the sand buggies is similar to being on a roller coaster, as the dunes can be 30 feet high in some places.

Home to hundreds of beautiful lagoons and glaciers, the Huascarán National Park is a favorite destination for people interested in mountain sports.

However, even if serious mountain climbing is of no interest, you can still visit several beautiful areas on half-day walks, such as beautiful glacial lagoons.

The park protects over 800,000 acres of the central Andean mountain range named the Cordillera Blanca. This includes Mount Huascaran, which is Peru’s largest mountain.

In addition to beautiful Andean scenery, you can enjoy spotting a number of fascinating animals and plants. See the famous Andean condors flying high above the reserve and even the vicuñas, which are one of Peru’s iconic camelids. Vicuña cloth was regarded so highly during the Inca Empire that it was reserved exclusively for Incan royalty.

To visit this beautiful place, you can base yourself in the city of Huaraz, which is a little north of Lima, Peru’s capital city.

One of the more recently popular attractions in Peru, Rainbow Mountain, as it is now known, is actually called Vinicunca. This is a fantastic multi-colored part of the Peruvian Andes, which you can visit on 1-day or 2-day tours from Cusco. If you enjoy adventure, you can also take the guided week-long Ausangate trek.

The colors come from the natural sandstone, which has striped the mountain with yellow, red, gold, and turquoise rock. Although only recently popularized as a tourist attraction, the unique, colorful beauty of the area makes Rainbow Mountain one of the most beautiful places in Peru’s Andes.

Lima is Peru’s capital city, and it is also home to some of Peru’s top attractions. The main draw for visitors is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historic Center. This is the oldest part of Lima, where you can enjoy a beautiful plaza surrounded by Spanish colonial buildings. There are some fascinating buildings in the area, such as the Monastery of San Francisco with its famous catacombs.

Another of Peru’s attractions is the food. Peruvian cuisine ranks among the world’s best, and Lima has many different top restaurants to enjoy. There are a diversity of uniquely Peruvian dishes with influences and fusions from Italian, Spanish, Arabic, and Asian cultures.

In addition to the more popular Cusco, Lima is also worth a visit for a day or two. Recommended areas to stay in are either Miraflores or the Barranco district. Miraflores is the main tourist hub in Lima and Barranco offers a more relaxed and artistic side to the city.

In addition to the Historic Center and restaurants, Lima is home to many other top things to do in Peru. You can enjoy fascinating museums and some great shopping for alpaca cloth and other items. For shopping, we recommend the Larcomar shopping center in Miraflores or Jockey Plaza in Surco. Some fascinating museums include the Museum of the Central Reserve Bank and the Larco Museum.

Another favorite sight in Cusco’s Sacred Valley, Sacsayhuaman, was a mystery to the Spanish. They didn’t think Andean cultures were capable of such impressive engineering feats.

This is one of the closest archaeological sites to Cusco, and although built by the pre-Incan Killke culture, this was later used as a citadel by the Inca Empire.

Built on a hill overlooking Cusco, Sacsayhuaman was the perfect position for a fortress to keep an eye on the Incan capital.

When you visit, you will see the incredible feats required in construction. It’s predicted that the entire area took 20,000 men to complete, as some of the giant stones lining the walls weigh 100 tons each.

You can also find 200 different archaeological structures dotted around the attraction.

If you’re lucky enough to visit Peru on the 24th of June, you can also witness the famous Inti Raymi celebrations that focus on Sacsayhuaman. This is a traditional Incan festival in honor of the sun god, the most important deity in Incan culture.

Trujillo is another city worth a visit. This is the gateway to the archaeological complex of Chan Chan mentioned above. However, Trujillo is also worth exploring due to its historic and compact city center.

Sitting in a green valley north of Peru’s capital, Trujillo offers beautiful architecture, ornate colonial churches, elaborate mansions, and different museums. The narrow cobblestone streets make it easy to imagine the time of the Spanish conquest. This was the main break area for sailors on the journey between Lima and Panama, with their ships filled with gold.

You can also explore the colonial houses for a glimpse into the city’s history.

The city is much smaller than Lima or Arequipa, and it can be explored after a couple of days. You can expect a warmer climate and clearer skies.

If you’re after a beach location, the best suggestions are the beaches around Mancora. For a long time, Mancora was a secret of surfers. However, with its great seafood, comfortable resorts, sunshine, beautiful beaches and great nightlife, Mancora has become a general traveler destination.

With the warm water and calm waves in certain areas, this is a great place for surfing beginners. There are also more challenging swells for experienced surfers.

As this is a well-known spot in the surfing community, the area can be busy. If you would prefer a more relaxing beach setting, you can try Vichayito, which is just a little further south. It’s also close enough to still come back for the hotels, cafes, and restaurants offered in Mancora itself.

Another of Peru’s well-known visitor sites, Lake Titicaca , is the world’s highest large lake. Accessed from the city of Puno in southern Peru, many local people in the region still wear traditional dress, making it an interesting cultural experience. The local women often wear petticoats and bowler hats, and their children dress in very colorful clothes. You can also visit the Uros community living on lake islands made entirely of reeds.

Around the lake, you can enjoy spotting a diversity of different animals. The wildlife you’re likely to see nearby includes many different birds and the vicuñas, which are the wild ancestors of the famous alpaca.

Lake Titicaca holds great significance for Andean communities as it did for the Inca themselves. Their belief is that Titicaca was the birthplace of the sun.

Ica has been inhabited by Andean communities for thousands of years. However, in 1563 with the defeat of the Inca, Ica became another Spanish-influenced city.

Ica is the base to experience the Paracas National Reserve and Huacachina sand dunes mentioned above.

Ica itself is also worth a visit in its own right. The region produces much of Peru’s wine and Pisco. There are many different wineries to visit, and you can also try Pisco, which is the main ingredient in the Pisco sour, Peru’s national drink.

You can enjoy different museums to learn about the region’s recent and ancient cultures, including the Paracas, Nasca, Ica, and the famous Inca

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The 16 Best Places to Visit in Peru in 2024

Oh, Peru. With Lima and Cusco as top tourist attractions for visitors, and the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu displayed high on bucket-lists around the world, Peru has long been a destination of choice for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. I have put together this handy guide on the 16 Best Places to Visit in Peru, just so you don’t miss out on something important during your once-in-a-lifetime visit to the ancient home of the Inca. From the dust-billowing pampas where the Nazca Lines whittle through the dirt to the wind-howling summits of the mighty Andes and the shimmering beaches of Mancora in the north, there’s all sorts to get through in this stunning part of the world.

My Experience in Peru

Peru is a country that never fails to inspire me. It was the Sacred Valley that first grabbed my imagination, when I came to hike the legendary Inca Trail. From the moment I stepped onto the crooked path by the side of the roaring Urubamba River, I knew it was going to be an adventure I’d never forget. A couple of cloud forests and wind-blown Andean passes later, I was emerging into the legendary mountain citadel of Machu Picchu. Talk about finishing on a high!

But I’ve returned to Peru countless times since that trip, magnetized by the allure of the Andes, the Amazon, and the enthralling pre-Columbian history. There are too many highlights to list here, but the snow-covered heights of the Salkantay route and the mosquito-buzzing rainforests of the Peruvian Amazon have to be standouts. So, too, do the enigmatic cities of Cusco and Arequipa, where mystical Incan temples sprout between elegant conquistador forts. You won’t regret coming. I certainly didn’t. Dive into my list of  the 16 Best Places to Visit in Peru:

1. Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu surely needs no introduction. It’s the most iconic landmark in Peru and arguably the most extraordinary archeological site in South America. Perched a whopping  7,972 feet (2,429 meters) up in the Andes above the gushing Urubamba River, it’s the end point of the famed Inca Trail (more on that later). Machu Picchu is believed to be over 500 years old . Within its cascading terraces of stone walls amid the cloud forests and the peaks, you can find the mysterious Temple of the Sun, and Incan homesteads woven together by staircases and roads. Talk about a place you’ll never forget!

2. Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is up there with the Mount Kilimanjaro and the Everest Base Camp treks. It’s unquestionably one of the most legendary trekking routes on the planet and is one of Peru’s top tourist attractions. But it’s nothing new. In fact, it has been there since at least the 15th century , when it was believed to be the main route of pilgrimage to the soaring city in the clouds that is Machu Picchu. Today, trekkers of all stripes come to conquer what’s known as the Classic Inca Trail , which weaves through Peru’s famous Sacred Valley for 26 miles (42 kilometers) past enthralling ruins and relics. This well-trodden path is a top adventure and usually takes four or five days to complete from start to finish.

It’s hard not to be wowed by the sheer presence of Cusco. The one time capital of the Incan Empire, it’s a veritable layer cake of history. On top, there are the elaborate cathedrals built by the Spanish conquistadors, glowing a tinge of pink over the bustling Plaza de Armas. Occasionally, the likes of Coricancha – a mighty temple dedicated to the Incan sun god, Inti – will rise through the buildings, while the whole area is surrounded by ancient ruins and agricultural terraces that were built centuries ago. Not only is this one of the undisputed top places to visit in Peru, but it’s also close by to the starting points of the Classic Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu and the Salkantay Trail routes.

A cocktail of modern grit and pre-Columbian culture, Lima is one of the most enthralling places in Peru. It’s also one of the first spots that many travelers will encounter after they step off their flight in Peru. The top tourist attraction and go-to district is Centro Historico, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses the daffodil-colored Convento de San Francisco and many of the finest museums in the country. Others prefer salt-washed Miraflores, where chic condos gaze over the Pacific coast and surfers rip up the waves. Nearly 10 million people live and work and play in Lima, so expect a hit of real Peruvian energy and pizzazz here.

5. Nazca Lina

A few hours down the coast from Lima visitors will find the Nazca Lines. Etched into the dusty earth on the southern plains of Peru, the Nazca Lines remain one of the great wonders of the continent. Known as geoglyphs, the lines take the form of great anthropomorphic representations or elaborate geometric designs, some of which measure a mighty 1,200+ feet (3,658 meters) across. It’s thought that they were forged by the mysterious Nazca peoples, who lived in this part of South America before the Incans from 100 BC to around 700 AD. There are two main ways for visitors to appreciate the full majesty of the Nazca Lines: Clamber up one of the local observation towers or take a flyover.

6. Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is the largest lake in South America. It skirts the edge of the Andes as it ranges across from the far southern edge of Peru into neighboring Bolivia. They call it the highest navigable lake on planet Earth because it has an altitudinous surface elevation of over 12,500 feet (3,810 meters) up. The setting is rather amazing, with the serrated, snow-capped Bolivian Andes scarring the horizon and the shimmering lake waters glowing in the foreground. Perhaps more than anything, it is known for its traditional floating islands, which are actually reed rafts forged by the pre-Columbian Uru people who’ve lived here for millennia. This top tourist attraction can be reached in a few hours by car from Cusco.

7. Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes is a modern settlement nestled in a valley just minutes away from Machu Picchu. It didn’t even exist before the 20 th century, but the coming of the railroad and the rediscovery of the famous city in the clouds helped development to surge. By the late 1900s, the town also known as Machupicchu Pueblo was a hub of life, with people flocking in the footsteps of the Inca. Today, it’s a key stopover on the traditional Inca Trail route to Machu Picchu, but is also famed for its natural hot springs – they’re the best place for visitors to soothe their muscles after multi-day treks through the Andes Mountains. To learn more about one of the best places to visit in Peru, Aguas Calientes’  on the Inca Trail, check out the Complete Guide to Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 2024 .

8. Huacachina

Looking more like something out of the Arabian Desert than a resort town of southern Peru, Huacachina is engulfed  in a sea of shifting sand dunes that rise to hundreds of feet (dozens of meters). The whole place is anchored on a natural desert spring lake that’s said to have been left behind by a mythical native princess. True or not, it’s an amazing spot to visit, gurgling amid the sand hills and cantinas. These days, visiting urbanites come from cosmopolitan Lima to kick back and relax in the classy hotels. Or they come to crank up the adrenaline with high-octane 4X4 buggy rides and sand-boarding sessions.

Puno has all the moxie of a real smuggler’s city on the edge of Bolivia. It’s also known as one of Peru’s top craft and culture capitals. Each year, it hosts the wild and carnivalesque processions of the Festival of Virgen de la Candelaria, when up to 30,000 masked revelers take over the streets, making it one of the best places to visit in Peru. When the festival isn’t on, Puno features as the gateway to the amazing Uru islands of Lake Titicaca. Up above town are the terraces of the Kuntur Wasi Viewpoint, one of the best places in Peru to take in big Puno bay and the distant mountains in Bolivia to the east. 

Interested in more festivals? Check out our packages for the Virgen Del Carmen Festival in Paucartambo .

10. Colca Canyon

Move over, Grand Canyon, because Peru’s Colca Canyon is almost twice as deep as the  United States mightiest gorge. It rends the southern Peruvian Andes in two, with sheer-cut stone sides that soar to a vertigo-inducing 10,730 feet (3,270 meters) at some points. The best way to explore all that is on the multi-day Colca Canyon Trek, which includes the likes of the Mirador Cruz del Condor lookout point (watch out for the New World vultures circling overhead) and wild swimming spots along the Rio Colca. Colca Canyon is more generally famed for its Quechua-speaking farming settlements and traditional villages.

11. Arequipa

Dominated by the cloud-haloed outline of El Misti volcano, Arequipa might not seem like the second-largest city in the country. It’s actually just a fraction of the size of Lima, and the wild peaks of the Salinas and Aguada Blanca seem so close you could reach out and touch them. Well…you can’t quite do that, but those visiting can launch technical trekking expeditions to the monstrous summit of Chachani at 19,872 (6,057 meters) feet if you’d like. Alternatively, stick to the city center, where cobbled streets and white-hued cathedrals converge on fountain-babbling plazas and traditional Peruvian marketplaces.

12. Mancora

Peru’s coastline stretches more than 1,500 miles (457 meters) up the side of the South American Pacific. Most people would agree that there’s no part of it that’s prettier than the Mancora District. Just 70 miles (113 kilometers) shy of the Ecuadorean border , the climate here takes a turn for the balmy and the tropical. The desertscapes of the south drop away and palm trees begin to thread the bays. Basically, it’s one of the undisputed top places to visit in Peru for sand, sun, and ocean. Mancora town itself is a lazy, salt-washed conglomeration of surf shacks and smoothie stalls – AKA chilling central. Visitors can hit the waves there or just recover after the trials of the Classic Inca Trail.

For a country where the mountains always seem close, Huaraz seems to draw the summits yet cl oser than ever. Located North of Lima, the backdrop here is the alabaster white broadside of Peru’s Cordillera Blanca. That daggers through the heart of the Huascarán National Park to mark the very highest point in the country – the glaciated pinnacle of Huarascán at 22,205 feet (6,768 meters). That’s best left to the pro climbers, but there’s endless trekking to be done in the region, including to the turquoise mountain lakes of Laguna Paron and the eye-watering Laguna 69.

14. Puerto Maldonado

Puerto Maldonado is hailed as the gateway to the Amazon jungles of the Madre de Dios department in south Peru. It’s a place where the rainforest is palpable; where the cries of black-capped squirrel monkeys and scarlet macaws echo from the great Tambopata National Reserve, which begins a mere seven miles (11 meters) out of town. There are now countless eco lodges that offer real immersion in the lush wildernesses here. We especially love the Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica, a boutique nature hotel with its very own bird-watching swing bridges and thatched bungalows on the edge of the snaking Tambopata River.

15. Iquitos

Despite being home to nearly 400,000 people, the self-proclaimed Capital of the Peruvian Amazon still has no direct road link to the outside world. The only way in is to ride that mighty waterway, the Amazon River, or to hop on a flight from Lima. Remoteness is part of the charm here, though. The main activity is intrepid boat trips, Heart of Darkness-esque, that whisk you away to the cacophonous rainforests in the company of caimans and Amazonian manatees. There are no fewer than seven protected reserves in the vicinity, but it’s the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve that reigns supreme as the largest of its kind in the whole of Peru. Returning back to the city, you’ve got charming riverside lodges and floating markets in the Belén area to look forward to.

16. Paracas

Desert meets ocean in grand style in Paracas. Scythes of cinnamon sand fringe the shores, while cliffs cascade down from crumpled desert peaks to frothing swells and azure bays filled with sea lions. The town is primarily known as the gateway to the pelican-stalked Ballestas Islands, which you’ll visit on day tours to encounter dolphins and penguins and more. It’s also a favored jump-off point to the aforementioned ancient wonders of Nazca, specifically the lines. El Chaco is the main part of town. Small and compact, it’s an uber-chilled stretch of hostels and cantinas that fronts a boat-bobbing port.

We hope you enjoyed this guide on the 16 Best Places to Visit in Peru. We know that there are even so many more extraordinary places to visit in this country. In fact, I wrote about Rainbow Mountain in Peru in an earlier blog post. We hope you get to visit Peru soon.

If you  are interested to learn more about how we can take you to these extraordinary places, email us at [email protected] or click here. 

I look forward to seeing you in Peru!

Jeff Bonaldi Founder & CEO The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi

Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE .

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21 of the Best Things to Do in Peru in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: December 4, 2023

There are a lot of amazing things to do in Peru besides trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu . Albeit, you must visit the magnificent Inca ruins, it’s one of the first things you must do in Peru! But after that, check out the rest of the country. It has some pretty amazing sites you probably haven’t even heard of.

We’ve been lucky to visit Peru several times. It takes time to see it all, but we’re here to help you decide what are the best things to see in Peru. If you have a couple of weeks there are a few things that we think you should not miss. To help you plan your trip, here are our favorite ideas for what to do in Peru.

Table of Contents

1. Machu Picchu

Chances are Machu Picchu is at the top of your list of things to see in Peru. And with good reason, the Inca ruins of this amazing city are one of the most famous attractions in Peru. We then went to Machu Picchu first thing in the morning for sunrise. I was taken aback as I walked in the dark and came across a llama in my path. It turns out there are llamas scattered all over the ancient ruins. Machu Picchu is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

It is the setting of the Lost City of the Incas that is truly out of this world. To understand how the Incan Empire built this city clinging to the side of a mountain, with terraces falling into the valley is incomprehensible. Machu Picchu was introduced to the Western world by Hiram Bingham as the Lost City of the Incas in 1911.

• Read: How to Plan a Trip to Machu Picchu

2. Hike the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is one of the most famous and iconic treks in the world. To hike the Inca Trail is at the top of many people’s bucket lists. It is one of Peru’s top tourist attractions calling visitors from around the world to hike this ancient route. The classic Machu Picchu trek takes only 3 days to get to the Inca Ruins but that is a lot of work. You’ll be trekking for nearly 7 hours each day so we suggest booking a longer tour.

If you want to hike the Inca Trail, Read all about tour tips for th e Machu Picchu Hike: All You Need To Know To Be Prepared

3. Hike Rainbow Mountain

The hike to and from Rainbow Mountain is one of the best things to do in all of Peru. It is a day-long trek at over 14,000 feet, tracing a dirt path between looming peaks of green and startling red rock. It’s a gorgeous route, passing local villages built from stone and glittering mountain streams to a rainbow-coloured mountain scene that you will never forget.

• Read more :   6 Things to Expect when Hiking Rainbow Mountain

Cusco is a beautiful colonial town that is the jumping-off point for trekking to Machu Picchu. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cusco is also a city that is a must-visit in its own right. Located at a high altitude of 3300 meters above sea level it takes some getting used to once your flight lands. Take it easy and enjoy plenty of cocoa tea.

Don’t miss seeing the Plaza de Armas where you can explore the cathedral of Santo Domingo and the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesus. Cusco even has its own Christ the Redeemer and you must check out the Twelve Angled Stone. A stone with twelve angles was part of an Inca palace.

• 5 Authentic Cusco Restaurants Where You Can Eat Like a Local
• Top Three Little-Known Hiking Day Trips in Cusco, Peru

6. Sacred Valley

If you can’t trek to Machu Picchu , a good option is to see the Sacred Valley. Ollantaytambo is an impressive Inca City that you will have the chance to explore. Surrounded by the Andes, we also walked along its agricultural terraces among the Andes mountains.

7. Huacachina

Huacachina, Peru is a village built around a natural lake in the middle of the desert called the Oasis of America. It is an incredibly beautiful location and a must-add to your list of things to do in Peru. Hotels, restaurants, and guesthouses line the lake which is surrounded by massive dunes. It’s a great place to chill out for a while.

8. Dune Hiking

Before visiting Peru, I didn’t even know Peru had a desert. Let alone a giant desert occupying 188,700 square km. It is one of the most stunning deserts I have ever seen and riding its slopes was a blast. There was nothing better than hiking to the top of a dune and watching the sun go down.

9. Sandboarding

We love snowboarding so naturally, when we visited some of the highest sand dunes in the world we had to try sandboarding. We weren’t as good at it as snowboarding. It is a little harder to carve out edges, but once we got the hang of it, it was a thrill.

10. Dune Buggy Tour

If you are wondering what to do in Peru to get the heart pounding, this it is! I was literally terrified on our dune buggy tour as the dunes here are so high I thought we might flip! It was the most heart-pounding, thrilling ride we’ve ever taken.

11. Pisco Wine Tour

Did you know that Peru has good wine? We hired a driver for a day from Huacachina to explore the nearby vineyards. The owners are welcoming and friendly and let you taste a lot of wine. While you are at it, be sure to taste the local spirit of Pisco! Pisco Sours are delicious and are Peru’s national drink.

12. Isla Ballestas

It’s Peru’s version of the Galapagos Islands. Near the town of Pisco, you can catch a boat out to the islands to see sea lions and penguins frolic around in their natural habitat. It was the cutest thing I had ever seen. I could spend hours watching wildlife.

13. Nazca Lines

Wondering what to see in Peru that will blow your mind? The Nazca Lines are the coolest thing you can see in Peru. These ancient geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert cannot be explained. The Nazca Lines are believed to have originated in 500 BC in the Nazca culture. It’s a wonder of the world and one of Peru’s many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. How could primitive human beings create intricate designs in the desert reaching 370 meters (1,200 feet) long? And how have they lasted for 2500 years through erosion, rain winds, and time? You’ve got to see them for yourself.

14. Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is located at the Bolivian border and it’s the highest navigable lake in the world located at 3,812 meters (12,300 feet) in the Andes. A trip to Lake Titicaca is a place where you can delve into the culture of Peru and see the famous floating houses of Lake Titicaca.

The Uros people live on floating islands made out of reeds creating entire communities living on the lake. New reeds are constantly added to the top as old rotting reeds float away. The Uros Floating Islands are the main tourist attractions of Lake Titicaca. Tourists can visit the islands to get a glimpse of traditional life.

15. Hike Colca Canyon

Colca Canyon is a popular destination famed for the condors that soar through the air. There are two and five-day options to hike into Colca Canyon. Located in the south of the country Colca Canyon it is twice as deep as the grand canyon . If you are exploring the Arequipa and Huacachina region, this is a great trip as it’s only 5 hours away!

16. Catacombs of the Monastery of San Francisco in Lima

Explore Lima’s old city and marvel at the colonial architecture of Plaza Mayor. The historic centre of Lima is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and must not be missed when looking for things to do in Peru. Take a stroll through the old streets to see its many sights. One of our favourite things to do was to witness the Catacombs of the Monastery of San Francisco and the Cathedral of Lima. We felt like these were are much darker and eerier than the Paris catacombs. You can book a tour of the Catacombs with Get Your Guide

17. Visit the Cathedral of Lima

The Basilica Cathedral of Lima is usually the first top in city Lima located in Plaza Mayor of downtown Lima, Peru. Inside you can see conquistador Francisco Pizarro’s tomb, but just taking in the beauty and serenity of inside is worth a visit.

18. Paraglide Miraflores in Lima

If you are looking for one of the more adventurous things to do in Peru with a little adrenaline attached, this is for you. It’s one of the easiest places in the world to go paragliding. Just walk down to the cliffs of Miraflores and ask the guys to take you paragliding over the city.

• Getting Around Lima – make sure you use the  official taxis of the city and always agree on the fee before getting in. Look for the yellow official taxis with a fixed sign on the roof. Uber has also opened up in Lima,
• We stayed at the   Swiss Hotel in Lima  and it was an excellent base. We usually stay in Miraflores. It’s safe, easy to walk around and there are many things to see. Check  TripAdvisor for hotels

While in Lima be sure to take a  food tour  to learn of the cuisine of Peru, (I recommend the Ceviche) and be sure to stroll through Mira Flores.

If you want to see a good highlight of Lima, this 4-Hour Walking Tour  of Lima’s Historic City Centre – There is a lot of history in Lima’s city centre and the best way to see it all is on a walking tour

19. Trek the Huayhuash Circuit

This challenging 10 – 13 day hike will take you deep into the Peruvian Andes, where you’ll find massive mountains, glaciers, mirror lakes, and local culture. It is certainly one of the more unique things to do in Peru and you can guarantee that your friends haven’t done this route.

As Miguel of TravelSauro says, “it a good alternative to the beaten Santa Cruz trek in the Cordillera Blanca range with fewer hikers.” You’ll have the chance to visit villages, buy cheese from the locals and enjoy awesome scenery, which you’ll have almost to yourself! But if you do want to do the Cordillera Blanca Trek, it is not far from the Huayhuash Circuit.

20. Take an Amazon River Cruise

We joined  International Expeditions  on the luxurious riverboat where we went deep into the heart of the Amazon Rainforest. This once-in-a-lifetime journey takes you along the longest river in the world to spy pink dolphins, three toes sloths, howler monkeys and visited local villages. The Amazon is one of the great places to visit in Peru.

It’s worth spending a day or two exploring Iquitos before your trip along the Amazon River. Iquitos is the largest city in the world that is not accessible by road. You can only get there by plane or boat. The Amazon is one of the greatest attractions in Peru and if you go there, be sure to add a cruise to your list.

• Read all about our Peruvian Amazon experience here:  What to expect on an Amazon River Cruise

21. Try the Local Cuisine

When visiting Peru, you must try some of the local cuisines. The national drink is the Pisco Sour.  It’s a refreshing lime drink that packs a punch. If you are daring you may try some barbecued guinea pig or the local delicacy of alpaca. Ica, is the wine region where you can sample some of Peru’s vintages and in the Andes you’ll see some very interesting foods such Cuy (guinea pig) but when you are near the coast, be sure to sample, Ceviche (raw fish salad).

When to Visit Peru

Peru is located on the West Coast of South America spanning from the Pacific Ocean through the Andes Mountains to the Amazon basin. It is bordered by Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, and Chile giving Peru a very vast landscape and climate range.

Usually, the best time to visit Peru is during the months of May to September as it is a good time for all areas.

• Peru’s summer is from December to March. This is the warmest time to visit, but it is also the rainy season.
• High season for visiting Peru is during its winter months May – September
• This is when it is warmest and driest.
• The best time for the weather to visit Machu Picchu is from April to November. But crowds are big and you will have to book in advance.

Peru is also a large country with very different climates.

• The Amazon Rainforest is hot and humid. From May to September it is very humid with temperatures above 30 degrees. It is very rainy from Oct – April.
• The desert in Huacachina is dry and hot and can be visited any time of the year as it doesn’t change much.
• The Andes can get very cold and the coast can have varied temperatures and climate.
• From December to March it is rainy and colder but you can still trek it if you want to experience fewer crowds.

So there you have it, our top suggestions for things to do in Peru. Do you have any additions? We’d love to hear and check them out the next time we go!

Planning resources for your next Peru Vacation

• Rainbow Mountain: What To Expect When Hiking Rainbow Mountain in Peru
• Iquitos : Things to do in Iquitos, Peru – A Gateway to the Amazon
• Cusco: Top Three Little Known Hiking Day Trips in Cusco, Peru
• Machu Picchu: How To Plan A Trip To Machu Picchu
• Amazon Cruise: What to Expect on an Amazon River Cruise – Life on the River
• Amazon River: 10 Reasons to Visit the Amazon River
• Facts About Peru: Fun Facts About Peru You Never Knew
• Paracas: Paracas Peru – Adventures In The California Desert
• Food: 5 Authentic Cusco Restaurants Where You Can Eat Like A Local

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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21 thoughts on “21 of the Best Things to Do in Peru in 2024”

Amazing places with photos, I love it.

For me, the best thing in Peru was visiting Machu Picchu. It is a wonderful place.

Thank you for all of this information! We are planning a trip to Peru with our kids in March. It’s hard to know what to do and how to get around, but your details definitely help me feel better about traveling in Peru. I don’t think we will have enough time for Rainbow Mountain, but I guess that’s reason enough to plan another trip!

Wow that is a fabulous read Thank you Pam

Wow… was planning a trip to Peru and chanced across your blog… super comprehensive and detailed post. thanks a lot for sharing such incredible information!

Thank you for such an informative writeup on Peru. My son is flying there tonight for a month long visit. I just forwarded this to him! I had no idea there was so much to do and have added Peru to my bucket list thanks to you!

What a nice explanation about Peru ! Someday i will visit Peru !

Great list, Dave and Deb! I spent several weeks in Peru back in 2005, but I would really love to go back and see even more of the country. The Huayhuash Circuit sounds like it would be right up my alley! I also really enjoyed some of the less visited sites in the north of Peru, such as Túcume and the ruined colonial ghost town of Zaña.

Great guide thanks for sharing! I totally agree that people need to be aware of the high altitude in Cusco. When I visited Peru, one friend got ill and had to seek medical attention. The doctor said that his blood oxygen levels were very low and he had to immediately fly down to sea level! Fortunately he had time to see Machu Picchu and we later met him in Arequipa.

I haven’t been to Rainbow Mountains but looking at your photos it looks like I missed out. Next time!

Cheers! Andy

Wow, I love the spontaneous decision to go to Peru, some people spend years in the planning! Nice photos by the way, lucky the fog lifted. Sacsayhuaman is also worth checking out if you have a few days in Cuzco. .-= Adventure King´s last blog ..Inca Trail To Machu Picchu- Interested =-.

Thanks, we were lucky because we had aeroplan points. We might not have been so spontaneous if we had to buy our own flight:-) But I do love living a life with spontaneity. So many people plan and plan and plan and never go through with their dreams. Sometimes it is great to throw caution out the window and take that trip of a lifetime rather than waiting for later.

Thank you for your Peru story! Im gonna travel on Wednesday from Athens to Lima, for 2 weeks Peru. I didnt have any time to search for this trip, so I m travelling with an agency………but the reason Im having this trip, is a dream I saw, this dream is sending me there, so I just want to ask you……….did you feel any spirituall thinks there? Isabella from Greece

I loved reading about what to do because you hit the target! These little trips sound like perfect adventures! We are planning a trip for Spring 2020. Thank you! I am looking forward to reading more about your travels.

Hello D @ D! Loved reading about the first part your trip to Peru! I was there last year (for 2 weeks) and your post made me nostalgic. Thankfully I got student discount on those expensive tickets you mention, so it was less burn on my pocket. Getting there before the crowds was sooo good, because around noon, crowds from trains took over the entire site and it felt like a market. LOL. cheers from Toronto. Priyank .-= Priyank´s last blog ..Bogolyubovo’s Church of the Intercession on the Nerl =-.

We used Ricketts Turismo. They were a bit pricier but well worth it, especially as we were a large group. There was a threat of a civil strike there for the day that we planned to do Sacred Valley and the tour company quickly re-routed us and took on to safer areas. We looped back around a couple of days later to cover what we’d missed.

Hey Debra & Dave,

Thanks for the fantastic insight on your trip to Peru. I’m heading to Peru myself in October for 10 days and I have found your blog pretty helpful. Thank you very much.

I was thinking of spending 5 days around Cuzco to visit Machu Picchu and I thought I’d be left doing nothing in Cuzco before my trip to Agua Calientes but now I see that there’s loads to do!

Just wondering which agency you guys used to the trip to Sacred Valley!

Again I can’t thank you enough for this. Planning trips last minute is just a nightmare but luckily I found your blog.

Cheers Johan Bristol, UK

Our trip to Peru was last minute as well. We decided one day to see where our Aeroplan Miles would take us and a couple of weeks later we were off to Peru! I can’t remember what company we booked for the Sacred Valley, but we just walked around the square and found one. It was pretty easy. If you don’t have your train ticket, make that the first thing that you do when you get to Cuzco. There are some other great hikes around Cuzco, so I think that you will find a lot to do. Sorry I don’t know that name of the company, but you will be able to find someone easily once you get there. Tour companies are everywhere in Cuzco. Have a great trip and let us know how it goes!

It sounds like we were on a very similar trip, but your pictures are better! Our trip covered Arequipa, Colca and Puerto Maldonado too: http://www.aaatravelviews.com/post/2009/07/30/Peru-Travel-Takes-Your-Breath-Away.aspx

Thanks for the useful info. It’s so interesting

Nice travel story I really enjoyed it. Peru its so full of history. I love historic places to think of those ancient times its captivating. I love your new site layout theme.

Oh. What a gorgeous view you took! My friend booked a trip to trek Machu Pichu this Sept. Too bad I couldn’t join her. But this definitely makes me want to plan my trip soon. I think it’s great that you guys rolled with whatever challenge you had during your trip and didn’t get upset about it.

Home » Travel Guides » Peru » 15 Best Places to Visit in Peru

15 Best Places to Visit in Peru

One of the most coveted destinations in all of South America comes complete with breathtaking fortresses built by the Incas, soaring cloud forests, the snow-topped Andes, the dusty Atacama and the misty Amazon rainforest alike.

No wonder there’s a veritable wealth of must-see spots between its borders. Let’s explore the best places to visit in Peru:

1. Machu Picchu

The great fortress in the clouds, the masterpiece of the Incas, the Andean citadel to rival all others, Machu Picchu rarely fails to draw a gasp.

It sits perched a whopping 2,400 meters up on the spikey ridges above the winding Urubamba River; the jewel of the iconic Sacred Valley and reachable only by foot.

Various treks weave their way up to the UNESCO heritage wonder from below, passing rustic Peruvian mountain towns and offering up breathtaking vistas of the Andes as they go.

Then the prize itself emerges: a glorious conglomeration of terraced houses and temples, crumbling altarpieces and animist sculpture, draped dramatically between the cloud forests and oozing pre-Columbian history from every one of its cracked and weathered pores.

Not even the conquistadores made it here!

Butting up to the Pacific rollers in lines of condominiums and lurching high-rises, Lima sprawls out over the Peruvian coastal plain in a patchwork of the new and the old.

It’s a place where the elegant remnants of a colonial past rub shoulders with ancient ruins; where 500-year-old relics pepper the museum rooms close to bustling food courts bursting with South American ceviche and Pisco sours to knock your socks off.

Of course, there’s a throbbing nightlife scene worthy of its 10 million people; erupting between the streets of Miraflores and Barranco every night of the week.

And that’s not even mentioning the beaches that line the coast to the north and south of the city, awash with surfers at Cabo Blanco, sunbathers at Vichayito and cocktail sippers at Los Pocitas. Nice.

3. Chan Chan

The ancient gateway to the arid desert lands of the Moche Valley is now one of the most fascinating pre-Columbian dig sites in all of Peru (and that’s saying something!). It’s thought that the sprawling ruins of the city that can now be seen here, popping up like a cardboard cut-out almost organically from the beige dunes and ridges of the desert, were raised in the middle of the 9th century AD. Chan Chan was once the epicentre of the powerful Chimor Empire until the conquistadores established nearby power bases in Trujillo in the 1500s, and today the remains of monolith defence walls, countless temples and court rooms, and elaborate irrigation systems can all be seen.

4. Huacachina

Just a short dune ride (preferably by 4X4) from the city of Ica, little Huacachina rises like a tropical gem from amidst the shifting sands.

An oasis town par excellence, this tiny settlement hugs its own small pop-up lake and comes dotted with lanky date palms which sway and wobble in the dry, dry breezes.

Given its fantastic location on the rolling ochre-beige ridges of the Ica wilds, the town has become a regular favourite on the Peruvian travel trail, and now boasts a clutch of top-quality backpacker guesthouses, boutique hotels and even a surprising nightlife scene that’s fuelled by Pisco sours.

By day, be sure to try your hand at sandboarding!

Everyone from intrepid mountaineers to casual hikers to view seekers flock to the high-perched town of Huaraz, which comes shrouded on all sides by the chiselled and precipitous peaks of the great Cordillera Blanca (many of which rise to a whopping 6,000 meters above sea level!). Earthquakes have long been the nemesis in this metamorphic corner of Peru, which means the town here has been built and rebuilt countless times.

Still, it’s not really about the urban side of things.

Not with the mint-white massifs of the Huascaran National Park beckoning to the east, complete with curious blooms of titanka plants, prehistoric cave art, dinosaur footprints and the craggy tops of Tawllirahu alike.

6. Trujillo

Trujillo is the largest city in Peru’s Moche Valley.

Once trodden by the Spanish conquistadores, it still oozes a colonial charm from each of its marble plazas and technicolour churches.

The clip clop of paso horses and the mellifluous sounds of Spanish chatter twist and turn around the palm-spattered Plaza de Armas at the metro’s heart, while Rococo elegance abounds on the Cathedral’s faces and the desert peaks of Moche rise to a bulwark on the horizon.

It’s a truly beautiful place to while away some time in the north, and offers unrivalled access to the bucket-list attractions of Chan Chan and the Huaca del Sol just to the south.

7. Tingo Maria

Tingo Maria sits nestled deep in the Andean ridges, blooming in a thousand shades of green thanks to the wet and fertile climate of the Amazonia side of the mountains.

Once considered virtually inaccessible, the spot soon became one of Peru’s prime commercial coffee growing centers, and the streets still enjoy the aromas of freshly-brewed beans and the energy of weekly farmer’s markets to boot.

However, Tingo Maria is perhaps better known – at least to the gringo tourists who now flock here out of Lima – as the gateway to the jungle.

The Tingo Maria National Park beckons just on the peripheries, home to the tunnels of the Owl Cave and the soaring summit of Pumarinri alike.

Laid-back and relaxed as it runs along the shores of Lake Titicaca, Puno is a real treat.

With its cascading barrios of breeze-block buildings and dust-caked streets, it may not look the part.

But Puno’s draws are on the water, not on the land.

Boat trips are hugely popular, taking travelers out to see the likes of Amantani, with its earthy Quechua farmers and crumbling pre-Columbian temples, or Uros, and its iconic reed villages.

Trips across to Bolivia and the Isla del Sol are also possible (this is the world’s highest navigable body of water after all!), while Puno itself offers up a great range of budget guesthouses and hotels to choose from.

9. Tarapoto

Fringed by swathes of montane jungle and blooming with its own resident population of palm trees, the so-called ‘City of Palms’ is a great place to sample real, raw Peruvian life right on the edge of the Andes.

Eateries tout platters of local highland foods, spice-doused chicken and rice dishes, and refreshing sugarcane juices all along the central streets, while night time parties erupt in Morales and travel groups depart to swim in the roaring waterfalls at Ahuashiyacu and Huacamaillo.

Outdoors adventures are never too far away, with the tropical reaches of the Amazon and its many rivers and jungle-clad valleys beckoning just to the east.

Cascading its way down the mountain ridges of the Southern Sierra in a dash of pretty Spanish-style bungalows with terracotta roofs, Tarma is one of the lesser known stop-offs in the Junin Region.

Despite lurking just a little from the tracks of the Inca Trail, the town only draws a humble crowd of visitors each year.

Those who do come can enjoy chacta-packed teas in the cafes, wonder at the colours during the Festival of Flowers in September and unravel more than 500 years of history to boot (Tarma was one of the first hill stations in this section of the Andes to be established by the conquistadores). Hiking is also popular, with treks around the foothills and mountain lakes here weaving in and out of the Andes and the Amazon alike.

11. Puerto Maldonado

Straddling the waterways of the Tambopata and Madre de Dios Rivers as they join to form one of the tributaries to the mighty Amazon in the east, Puerto Maldonado is Peru’s jungle city par excellence.

Once only accessible by boat, the town has recently joined the country’s ever-expanding road network and now booms with hikers and wildlife seekers during its high-season.

They come to spy out the multi-coloured macaws and old -rowth rainforests that the enticing trio of the Tambopata National Reserve, the Amarakaeri Communal Reserve, and Bahuaja-Sonene National Park offer to the north-west and south-east alike.

If you do head to those wilds, expect everything from cultural encounters with Peruvian tribes to giant otters and spectacled bears!

12. Arequipa

Peru’s onetime capital and second most populous metropolis, 850,000-strong Arequipa is the buzzing metro hub of the country’s southern reaches.

It can be found spread out over the highlands of the Huayco Uchumayo, set in the shadow of three mighty volcanos: brooding Misti, the snow-mantled massifs of Pikchu Pikchu, soaring, 6,000-meter-high Chachani.

The town bears one glorious UNESCO core of old-style mansions and Spanish colonial churches, all fused with the traditions of Peruvian building to create the unique architectural look now hailed as Escuela Arequipena.

To see this first hand, check out the 16th-century Santa Catalina Monastery, the neoclassical Basilica Cathedral, or the almost Petra-esque Church of the Jesuits.

13. Urubamba

Situated between the green slopes and cloud forests of the much-visited Sacred Valley of the Incas, Urubamba is the gateway to some of Peru’s most bucket-list sights.

In the town, the streets are thronged with everything from classy hotels to earthy guesthouses, gringos and walkers fresh from the Incan Trail flitting between the bars and Plaza de Armas on rumbling auto rickshaws.

It’s one of the top bases for exploring the various ancient sites that adorn the ridges here, whether that means scaling to the heights of Machu Picchu, hitting the agricultural terraces of Tipon, seeking the mysterious ruins of Choquequirao, or enjoying ecotourism in the cultural attraction of Chichubamba.

The onetime epicentre of Incan power in the Americas is now a thriving tourist hub, touting everything from glorious Spanish churches to the crumbling remnants of the city’s former pre-Columbian masters.

With century upon century of Peruvian past concealed beneath the town’s throbbing streets, it’s easy to see why so many travelers make their way here.

Just check out the whitewashed cottages of Barrio de San Blas, awash with Incan treasures below their floors, or the glowing Plaza de Armas, where Andalusian arcades rise and fall beneath the baroque majesty of the Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin.

And when it’s time to leave the city, Peru’s most iconic backcountry awaits: the cloud forests and Incan treasures of the Sacred Valley!

Nazca is best known as the jumping off point for seeing the famous Nazca Lines: centuries-old petroglyphs and markings carved out of the rolling pampas on the edge of the Chilean Atacama.

The air is dry and dusty in the town, and most of the city is pleasant and walkable.

Tour operators here will clamber over one another to offer travelers flights out over the mysterious UNESCO site in the desert, while trips to Cahuachi and Paredones, and the prehistoric cave systems and walking trails of the Palpa Valley, are also fine options for any looking to combine adventure and history in one.

15 Best Places to Visit in Peru:

• Machu Picchu
• Tingo Maria
• Puerto Maldonado

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The summit (16,500 feet) of the Vinicuna, or Rainbow mountain.

Here are the top 5 places to visit in Peru

Let’s get to it: Peru is the place to be.

Peru is a destination that begs to be explored. In this vast and storied land, ancient, colonial, and modern traditions meld together for an unforgettable cultural experience. No matter the type of traveler—history buff, adventurer, or foodie—Peru offers a myriad of activities to satisfy every appetite. It’s no surprise that its ancient sites, beautiful topography, and diverse ecosystem attract visitors from all over the world, making it one of the most popular destinations in South America.

Blossoms outside the grand Museo Larco in Lima, Peru.

Known as the City of the Kings, Lima is Peru’s capital city and a symbol of its Spanish colonial history, industry, and independence.

First-time visitors should check out the local museums and get a taste for Peru’s depth of history. Museo Larco has an ancient collection of pre-Columbian exhibits of Peru’s indigenous people, where guests can also enjoy beautiful gardens and an on-site restaurant .

There’s no better way to enjoy the coastal views of Lima than in the lush neighborhood of Miraflores . Stroll through Parque del Amor , which offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, or head to the ancient clay pyramid of Huaca Pucllana for a dose of history. You can visit during the day or at night when lights make it a sight to behold. If you need to get some shopping in, the Larcomar is the place.

Moche ceramics are made from red and cream clays and often finished with bone tools.

Chancay pottery is usually used for tomb decoration.

If you have some extra time and money, consider a food tour while in Lima. The Lima Gourmet Company offers morning and evening tours for about $130. Looking for something cheaper? Haku Tours offers a wide variety of group outings not just limited to food. It’s also a perfect way to meet fellow travelers.

Lima may hold the title as the official capital of Peru, but Cusco is the original seat of power for the Inca empire. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983, it is apparent why it deserves that title.

Cusco is a beautiful city. From its Inca and 16th century colonial architecture, to its narrow, winding streets, the city has a romantic vibe with a distinct European feel. While there are many places to stay , Inkaterra La Casona is a standout. The 16 th century manor house was restored into a 11 suite boutique hotel situated in the historic Plaza de las Nazarenas. Cozy features, traditional Incan and Spanish décor, and a central open courtyard make for an unforgettable stay.

A llama poses in Cusco, Peru.

Cusco’s main square, the Plaza de Armas, is perhaps the city’s most iconic site and a prime spot for a leisurely stroll and people-watching. The square is also surrounded by many eclectic shops and restaurants. The awe-inspiring Cusco Cathedral sits on periphery of the square and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Archeological relics, artifacts, and colonial works of art are displayed within.

After a long day of touring the city stop at the Museo del Pisco , which offers cocktail classes and flight tastings of pisco, a distinctly Peruvian aperitif. Sit back and enjoy the scenery.

View from the top of Rainbow Mountain, outside the city limits of Cusco.

If you have the time, there is an all-day excursion from Cusco to the famous Rainbow Mountain (also known as Vinicuna). The elevation is high, so you need to take that into consideration for the hike. It is definitely worth the trip as the site is stunning!

The Sacred Valley of the Incas

Farmers tend crops at the Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba in the Sacred Valley. Hacienda Urubamba provides work for locals and uses produce from their garden on their menu.

The Sacred Valley , also known as Urubamba Valley, is a prime destination for exploring Inca ruins and enjoying outdoor activities. You can easily make day trips to this region from Cusco or Machu Picchu, but consider staying a night or two at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba to explore the region. The hacienda-style hotel is nestled in the center of the Sacred Valley and includes multiple excursions with your stay. Guests can choose from several hikes that vary in activity level, and tour the on-site ecological farm that supports the farm-to-table cuisine served at the hotel.

You can book adventure tours for mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, and rafting with agencies throughout the region. KB Tambo Tours are well priced and can accommodate various activity levels.

There are several breathtaking locations to explore in the Sacred Valley before making your journey to Machu Picchu. The Salinas de Maras is a network of nearly 3,000 salt pans that are filled by an underground spring. The terraced ponds are a beautiful sight and worth the trip. Just 3 miles away is the ancient site of Moray. The deep, bowl-like impressions in the Earth (about 100 feet) are believed to have served as an Incan agricultural laboratory. Your last stop should be the town of Ollantaytambo , home to an Incan fortress with large stone terraces built into the hillside. It is also a common starting point for the Inca Trail , a hiking route to Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu

Clouds scatter across a sprawling panoramic view of Peru's famed Machu Picchu.

This seminal destination is probably what drives most people to visit Peru. Considered one of the new 7 Wonders of the World (alongside heavy hitters such as the Great Wall of China and the Roman Colosseum) Machu Picchu doesn’t disappoint.

One of the most memorable ways to get to Machu Picchu is via the Inca Rail , which departs from Cusco or Ollantaytambo. The rail journey transports passengers through the spectacular views of the Sacred Valley’s countryside. Besides, who doesn’t love a majestic train ride?

• Nat Geo Expeditions

To visit Machu Picchu you need to buy your ticket in advance of your trip . To help regulate the amount of people who visit the site each day, there are a limited number of tickets available. You can purchase them online at the Ministerio de Cultura ’s webpage. The ticket purchasing site is only available in Spanish, so follow this guide .

The weather here can be temperamental—sunny and warm one moment and gray and raining the next. Be sure to dress in layers, pack light, and bring waterproof jackets and gear. Enjoy the view and the few native llamas and alpacas that call Machu Picchu their home!

A great place to stay is the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel , which is situated in the cloud forests at the base of the Incan citadel. This natural wonderland is home to over 200 bird species unique to the region and over 300 species of orchid that grow among the winding stone pathways to the guest rooms.

The Peruvian Amazon covers about 60% of the country and is one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world. Get ready to get up close and personal with wildlife and creepy crawlers! Fun fact: the notorious anaconda calls these lands its home.

One of the easiest ways to get to the Amazon is by plane from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado—a quick, 50-minute flight. Book your stay at Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción , an eco-friendly National Geographic Unique Lodge that offers an impressive array of tours.

One of the excursions offered by Hacienda Concepción is a canopy walk among the treetops of the Amazon.

One standout experience offered to guests is a visit to Lake Sandoval, home to river otters, caimans, and howler monkeys­—to name a few. Other not-to-miss adventures are the guided night walk through the Amazon jungle (you’ll be seeing a potential variety of creepy to cute; tarantulas to kinkajous), the twilight river excursion, and the not-for-the-faint-of-heart canopy walk. Caity Garvey and Jess Mandia are producers with the National Geographic Travel digital team. You can follow them and their travels on Twitter: @caitygarvs and Instagram: @caitygarvs and @jessmandia .

Related Topics

• CULTURAL TOURISM
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Vibrant South America: 10 Most Colorful Towns In Peru

• Peru is home to vibrant towns surrounded by natural wonders and ancient roots, making it one of the most beautiful destinations in South America to visit.
• Visitors should explore towns like Chimbote, Ollantaytambo, Tarma, Urubamba, Cajamarca, Pisac, Cusco, Chinchero, Arequipa, and Ayacucho for their breathtaking landscapes, historical sites, and cultural experiences.
• From ocean views in Chimbote to colorful textiles in Chinchero, and from the Inca ruins in Ollantaytambo to the architectural wonders in Cusco, Peru offers a variety of attractions for every traveler.

When it comes to looking for beautiful towns to visit around the world, tourists must definitely add the most colorful towns in Peru to the list. This Southern American country is rich with natural wonders, Instagrammable landscapes, ancient roots, and memorable adventures for any traveler looking for a unique getaway.

Peru features tranquil yet vibrant towns in local neighborhoods that commemorate the country’s long-gone civilizations and are surrounded by enormous lakes, staggering mountains, cloud forests, rivers, and canyons. Some famous tourist destinations include Machu Picchu, the Rainbow Mountains, Laguna Paron in Caraz, and Laguna Humantay in Cusco.

Take a trip to Peru for 10 days (or more if desired) and visit the country’s vibrant towns, rich culture and heritage, from colonial architecture to grand churches and massive town squares packed with boutiques and restaurants. These are some of the best towns in Peru to visit.

RELATED: Visit Gocta Waterfall: The Highest Waterfall In Peru

Planning a trip to Peru ? Don't forget to include Chimbote on the Peruvian coast, which is the source of about 75% of the country’s fish cultivation. What started as a small fisherman’s village now has a population of more than 400,000 .

Visitors love admiring breathtaking ocean views in Chimbote, including a colorful mixture of blue to green horizons because of the mountains reflecting off the sea. The climate also features comfortable and cool winds because of the Humboldt Current, a cold water current flowing north from Antarctica.

• Tourists can catch more cheerful and colorful neighborhood views in the central plaza.
• A visit to Malecón, Chimbote features beautiful sunset views and fishing boats going back to the harbor.

Ollantaytambo

Tourists who want to get a feel of the traditional Andean roots must visit Ollantaytambo, a fascinating historical site near Cusco City. This small town in the Sacred Valley features locals wearing colorful alpaca wool, walking around or weaving.

Ollantaytambo is one of the most beautiful towns in Peru to visit, and it's filled with well-preserved Inca ruins, cobblestone streets, traditional adobe houses, and a busy town market where tourists can buy local food and handicrafts.

• Tourists can ride the bus or call a taxi in Cusco to reach Ollantaytambo.
• Local guides are everywhere in the town for travelers who want to experience informational tours to learn about Ollantaymbo’s mysteries.

Tarma, a small town in the Andes Mountains, is one of the hidden gems of Peru because of its picturesque landscapes filled with vibrantly-colored flowers and lush greeneries. Tourists should visit the neoclassical Cathedral of Santa Ana de Tarma, located in the central square, and take various photos of the place.

Because the town is located in the Peruvian Highlands, travelers should expect a colder climate and more refreshing city air, with brown mountains surrounding it. Besides colorful views, visitors love the warm welcome from locals despite experiencing difficulty in reaching Tarma because of its high altitudes.

• Tarma is one of the best towns to visit in Peru for tourists heading to the central Amazon.
• Houses in the town predominantly feature white plaster walls and red roofs.

Another town in the Sacred Valley is Urubamba, one of the most beautiful Peruvian towns to visit, whose name translates to “flat land of spiders” in Quechua. First-time tourists in Peru are recommended to visit this town because of its moderately high altitude, allowing visitors to get used to the climate and slowly be introduced to the highlands.

Urubamba is also famous for its high-quality ceramic souvenir items for tourists to send home. Workshops on ceramics are also popular in this town, where attendees can learn what makes ceramic goods in Urubamba unique.

• Urubamba is near famous Incan ruins, ideal for tourists who love to witness historical views in Peru.
• Tourists can take lots of photos of the famous Mountain Chi’qun.

The best time to visit Urubamba is during the El Señor de Torrechayoc festival in June, where tourists can watch local dancers perform on the streets.

RELATED: This Hanging Hotel In Peru Makes Guests Hike Up To The Rooms

Another colorful town in Peru's Highlands is Cajarmaca, surrounded by high mountains and lush grasslands and famous for the Battle of Cajamarca, marking the Inca Empire's defeat by the Spaniards.

The most famous tourist attraction is the Plaza de Armas, and tourists can book online tours to learn about the location’s history through informative guides. Plaza de Armas has bright green lawns and beautiful gardens surrounded by traditional colonial buildings.

• Tourists should visit Cajamarca every February during the Carnival to witness festivals, parties, celebrations, and water fights.
• The Carnival is free, and anyone can join.

The Carnival includes tourists and Peruvians chasing each other and throwing water balloons or shaving cream inside aerosol cans.

Pisac is one of the most beautiful small towns in Peru, situated in the Sacred Valley; it's filled with hippies, mystic ex-pats, and Andean people, giving tourists a taste of various traditions and cultures when visiting this place. Tourists can visit this colorful town, a few hours away from Cusco, and check out Pisac Market, a local tourist destination packed with handmade artisan goods in the main plaza.

Another famous attraction is the Archeological Site of Pisac, one of the top historic sites in Peru because of its magical and ancient landscapes.

• Pisac also holds Virgen de Carmen Festivity every July, a festival commemorating Virgen de Carmen. Activities include dancing, horse race, and costume galore.
• Tourists can admire various colors and heritage displays that last for days during the festivity.

Tourists looking for Instagrammable things to do in Peru should visit Cusco, an imperial city in the southwest of the country and one of the top cities in Peru to visit because of its history and cultural expression.

Visitors can see many of the most popular tourist attractions in Peru when visiting Cusco, including the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the Rainbow Mountain, and Machu Picchu. This city is also home to the most well-constructed archeological sites in the world, including The Qorikancha Temple and The Main Cathedral in Cusco.

• Joining group tours is a great way to learn about each attraction’s history and heritage.
• The Qorikancha Temple is a paid tourist attraction where tourists can discover more about the country’s religion and beliefs.

RELATED: Huacachina: This Charming Village In Peru Is Worth Visiting

Chinchero is home to weavers creating colorful and beautiful textiles as artisan goods and souvenirs for tourists and is surrounded by a quaint church and Inca ruins. More famously known as the Rainbow Town, visitors can catch glimpses of beautiful rainbows during the rainy season from January to March.

Sundays are fair days where tourists can flock to Chinchero’s main square and check out local products, handicrafts, and textiles made in ancestral styles.

• Dyeing textiles is done with natural products with no chemicals.
• Various stores in the Chinchero market feature products made of baby alpaca wool.

One of the fascinating adventures to experience in Peru is visiting Arequipa and checking out Colca Canyon, the world’s second-deepest canyon. The White City is among the best cities to visit in Peru, as it features exciting activities, museums, traditions, and even volcanoes that tourists should not miss out on to appreciate the country’s unique landscapes and heritage.

Santa Catalina Monastery is a famous attraction next to Colca Canyon, colonial architecture with pink and white ashlar from the Misti and Chachani Volcanoes. Tourists should also visit The Yanahuara Viewpoint, two kilometers from the main square, to catch panoramic views of the entire city.

• The Santa Catalina Monastery is a paid tourist attraction open daily to the public.
• The Yanahuara Viewpoint features Pichu Pichu, Misti Volcanoes, and Chachani views.

Tourists who love to get to know about Peru’s religious roots should add Ayachucho to the list of must-visit towns in Peru. Locals from this town are known for being faithful devotees and loving various celebrations and parties.

Ayachucho, the capital of folk art in Peru, has 33 churches to commemorate each year in the life of Jesus Christ. It’s also famous for colorful and traditional arts and crafts, where tourists can purchase handmade artisan goods as souvenir items from local markets.

• Semana Santa is the perfect time for tourists to catch colorful celebrations.
• Visitors should visit the famous archaeological site of Vilcashuamán, an Inca military and religious center.

10 things to know before traveling to Peru

Nov 26, 2023 • 6 min read

Aim to visit Cuzco during the shoulder months, just before or at the tail end of the rainy season © andresr / Getty Images

Peru is a megadiverse country, offering countless adventures and cultural experiences for the intrepid – as well as potentially endless head-scratching and headache-inducing occurrences for the uninformed traveler. 

Whether you plan to stay put in the capital or venture on a circuit through each geographical region , it’s always advantageous to have local insight. Here are some of the top things to know before traveling to Peru . 

1. Peru’s only international airport is in Lima

Until the Chinchero Airport (a 45-minute drive from Cuzco ) is finished, all international air passengers to Peru will first touch land in the metropolitan area of Lima , via the Jorge Chávez International Airport. 

From the airport to San Isidro, Miraflores or Barranco – neighboring districts of Lima that make up the capital’s tourist-friendly trifecta – it's usually a 40-minute taxi ride outside of rush hour. 

Don’t try to pick up a taxi outside of arrivals nor from the chaotic street just beyond the airport limit; instead, choose from any of the authorized companies represented just after customs. For travelers on a budget , the safest option is the Airport Express Lima bus (with transfers to and from Miraflores only). 

2. The shoulder months are the best time to visit Cuzco 

The Cuzco region has two marked seasons: the rainy season (November to April) and the dry (May to October). When the rain is in full effect, areas like the idyllic Sacred Valley turn lush with native crops and tourism is comparatively low.

That said, the wet climate makes the period between January and March especially difficult (and even dangerous, in some cases) for epic hikes. 

The dry months are ideal for trekking and most adventure sports – though as a direct correlation, tourism is at its highest then. The best time to visit Cuzco? Aim for the shoulder months , just before the rain (October) or at its tail end (May).  

3. Book well in advance for Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu and the Inca Trail

Is it possible to snag last-minute entry tickets to Machu Picchu ? Sure, it can happen – but as Peru’s most popular tourist attraction, it doesn't make sense to risk it.

Purchase your entry ticket at least one month in advance, especially if planning to visit the Unesco World Heritage Site between June and August (the busiest months for international visitors). 

While you're at it, consider adding on the entry to Huayna Picchu, the tall peak that appears behind the citadel in classic Machu Picchu photos. Only 200 visitors a day are able to make the steep, hour-long ascent that leads to a privileged bird’s eye view of the archaeological site.

Cuzco's dry months are also the high season for one of Peru’s most epic hikes , the Inca Trail. This trek requires a permit that can only be purchased through an organized tour. Keep in mind the trail closes every February for maintenance. 

4. In Peru, just one cheek kiss will do to say hello or goodbye

For some travelers, Peru’s salutation may seem too close for comfort, while others – we're looking at you, Italians – will see it as half-finished. 

When meeting or greeting someone of the opposite sex or in the case of two women, Peruvians will offer an air kiss on one side of the face. Call it a lingering effect of machismo culture, but men typically greet each other with a simple handshake and hug. 

Don't try to enter or leave a party without greeting everyone, be it with a hug or air kiss, as that will appear disrespectful.

5. Keep soles and centimos on hand, especially outside of major tourist zones 

Credit card acceptance and even payment applications are commonplace in bustling cities, like Lima and Cuzco, though you will want to keep local currency (sol) on hand at all times. 

You can’t miss a visit to open-air markets, such as those in Lima's Surquillo neighborhood  and the San Pedro market in Cuzco, where vendors prefer cash. While at the market, pick up a small coin purse as public transportation and restrooms run on pocket change. 

And for towns outside of the typical tourist circuit – think Tumbes in the north or Ayacucho in south-central Peru –  cash on hand is a must. 

6. Tipping may not be a local custom, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t

When it comes to dining out in Peru, there is no standard for tipping. That said, Peru’s tipping culture (or lack thereof) should be an exception to the rule of “do as the locals do.” As a visitor, go ahead and leave your waiter, barista or hostess a tip that seems appropriate to you.  

7. No, your watch doesn’t need to be reset, it’s just the "hora Peruana"

La hora Peruana (Peruvian time) refers to the stereotype of Peruvians showing up late – not just 15 minutes late but upwards of an hour late.

The phrase is tossed around amongst Peruvians and expats alike, as we’ve all struggled with that landlord, friend or coworker who says they’ll be there in the morning and are a no-show until after lunch. 

Of course, la hora Peruana is a generalization, but it’s best to be mentally prepared in case someone you made plans with doesn’t show up on the dot...or anywhere close to it. 

8. Keep spare toilet paper in your pocket –  but never flush it!

Public restrooms in Peru are infamous with international travelers. From seatless toilets to humble holes in the ground, we’ve seen it all, but those squeamish moments are nothing you can’t survive. 

Follow bathroom etiquette and toss toilet paper in the wastebasket rather than flush it. Public restrooms usually aren’t stocked with toilet paper, so keep a travel-size roll in your day bag, or be prepared to pay 50 cents for a few squares upon entry.

9. Eat and drink with your gut health in mind

Let’s be honest, Peru likely became your destination of choice partly because of the reputation and recognition of its gastronomic scene . 

Your senses will be tantalized by the unique kick of ají pepper in a ceviche, the sounds of sizzling suri  (palm-weevil larvae) or the pink froth topping a glass of frutillada  (traditional chicha , or fermented corn beer, blended with strawberries)  –  classic street-food items, depending on which region of Peru you’re visiting. 

When it comes to street food – and especially drinks, as Peru does not have clean tap water – there’s always a risk for “travelers’ stomach.” If you have any doubt, play it safe and wait until you get to a recommended restaurant to try that dish you’ve been eyeing.

10. Take a full day (if not two) to acclimate before any high-altitude activity

No matter how much physical training you've accomplished at sea level prior to your trip, arriving at high-altitude destinations like Cuzco – 3399m (11,152ft) above sea level – can be brutal. 

And what could be worse than dizziness, nausea and other symptoms of soroche (altitude sickness) keeping you from bucket-list hikes, such as Vinicunca, better known as Rainbow Mountain, 5200m (17,060ft) above sea level? 

When planning your trip, include a day or two to acclimate before starting any physically demanding activity. Stay hydrated and avoid heavy food and alcohol. And whether or not you decide to take altitude pills, consider local remedies, such as muña tea and coca leaves.

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