top tourist destinations peru

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.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Peru

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:

Map of 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.

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.

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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}

The 28 Most Beautiful Places in Peru

By Megan Spurrell

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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).

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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 .

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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).

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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.

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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 .

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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.

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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.

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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 ).

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 41 Most Incredible Places to Visit in Peru in 2023

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 22nd November 2023

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 41 most spectacular places to visit and things to do in Peru – many of which you’ll probably never have heard of before.

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Eighteen Places to Visit in Northern Peru

Máncora.

Renowned as a place for long, hot days on the beach and frenzied parties at night, Máncora appeals to a lively backpacking crowd.

It’s also a hugely popular tourist destination for surfing and kite-surfing – the latter of which is best between April and November, months when most of the crowds disappear.

Sun loungers on the main beach in Mancora one of the most popular places to visit in Peru for backpackers and surfers

Having started out as a quiet fishing village before transforming into a hippy hangout, there are still slices of tranquillity to be found, if hedonism isn’t quite your cup of tea. Luckily, the region has quite the clutch of glorious beaches – many of which are practically deserted.

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.

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.

Two men survey the waves at surfing hot spot Lobitos one of the top places to visit in northern Peru

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.

Accessible only by boat or plane, Iquitos, the biggest city of the Peruvian Amazon, is something of an island.

But this chaotic, river-bound city is much more than just a gateway to the jungle and has plenty of things to do.

It’s full of wonderfully eclectic surprises, from the casa de fierro, designed by none other than Gustave Eiffel, to the opportunity to sample local delicacies such as suris : fat and juicy tree worms enjoyed stewed, roasted, or skewered…

What’s more, from here you can jump on a boat for an organized tour of the jungle or head downriver toward Brazil or Colombia to continue your Amazon adventure.

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.

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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.

The glittering gold and coloured mosaics inside the Santuario de la Virgen de Polloc near Cajamarca and a completely unknown place to visit in Peru

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.

Ventanillas de Otuzco and de Combayo

Burying the dead has taken many forms across different cultures through the ages and those employed by the Cajamarca culture were particularly unusual.

Located eight kilometers east of Cajamarca, the Ventanillas de Otuzco is a fascinating necropolis of 337 windows chiseled out of the overhanging volcanic rock.

Here, the bodies of important leaders were buried, with the oldest dating back to 200 AD.

The Ventanillas de Otuzco, a series of niches carved into the volcanic rock near Cajamarca and an important place to visit in Peru

It’s truly a sight to behold and, while no remains are left, you can wander around the burial ground, admiring the painstaking work to make these funerary niches.

Twelve kilometers continuing east are the Ventanillas de Combayo, another larger site, where you can be guaranteed to meet few, if any, other visitors.

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.

The mummies of Laguna de los Condores on display in a temperature controlled room in the Museo de Leymebamba and important place to visit in Peru

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.

Chachapoyas

Hidden away back from the coast in the Andes mountains of the northern Amazonas region, Chachapoyas is one of the country’s most up-and-coming tourist destinations and an unmissable place to visit on your trip to Peru.

This small market town lacks much of the colonial charm of more famous cities in the region, but it offers an almost incomparable array of nearby natural and pre-Colombian attractions.

In addition to Gocta and Yumbilla Falls and Kuélap (see #10 #11 below), there’s also the dramatic sarcophagi of Karajia .

What’s more, a short taxi journey north brings you to a mirador overlooking the Cañón del Sonche, a dramatically deep canyon where vultures hover in the skies above and the whole landscape turns exquisite and golden-hued at sunset.

San Pedro de Mendoza

Tucked deep into the lush green hills of the Amazonas Region is something you probably wouldn’t expect to find in Peru: coffee fincas .

In and around the small town of San Pedro de Mendoza, most of these plantations are owned by local farmers, some of whom have clubbed together to form coffee cooperatives to guarantee steady and fair prices for their crops.

Coffee beans in San Pedro de Mendoza, a small town in the Amazonas region and an interesting place to include when planning a trip to Peru

While the scenery in this nook of Peru is spectacular and green thanks to the region’s high rainfall, it’s the experience of touring the coffee farms that’s the main attraction.

Join a tour and visit a local farmer for lunch before helping them to collect ripe berries from their land, before learning about the full process of coffee production – from bean to roast – at the cooperative headquarters.

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!

Gocta Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the world as seen from Cocachimba and one of the unmissable places to visit in Peru

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.

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 we think Peru is one of the best countries in South America to visit for those seeking fascinating archaeological sites.

UPDATE: Unfortunately, since late 2022, it has been impossible to enter the main Kuélap site because of the external wall collapsing in parts. Currently you can take the cable car up to the top of the mountain on which it is located and view the outside walls of the site – which isn’t quite the same experience as walking around the remains of the houses inside. There is no current confirmed date for reopening the full site.

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 18-metre-high stone walls of the Kuelap Fortress near Chachapoyas, an unmissable destination in Peru

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.

On the fringes of the Amazon jungle, Tarapoto is a laid-back town where motos zip through the dusty streets and palms wave in a gentle, humid breeze.

As tourism has increased in Iquitos, Tarapoto has become the destination of choice in Peru for health and wellness tourism – namely yoga and Ayahuasca.

Tambo Ilusion, a yoga and ayahuasca retreat in Tarapoto in the north of Peru and a popular place to visit in Peru for health tourism

For the former, there are plenty of chilled-out ecolodges where you can go to relax and restore your chakras: Chirapa Manta , with its hammock-slung, riverside terrace is one of the finest, while Tambo Ilusión specialise in multi-day yoga, vegetarian cooking, and SUP retreats.

The latter run eight-day Ayahuasca retreats where you can try this hallucinogenic drug, made from a combination of the ayahuasca vine and a shrub called chacruna, in a safe and protected environment.

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 town of Lambayeque, you can be guaranteed that practically everything you see is in fact gold .

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.

Bosque del Pómac and Batán Grande

Tucked deep into the Santuario Historico Bosque de Pomac is one of Peru’s little-known archaeological sites but an important landmark in the country.

The Pomac Forest is a striking jungle of algarrobo trees right in the middle of a desert plain and merits a visit if purely to encounter a 500-year-old tree thought to have magical powers.

There’s also plenty of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for birds such as burrowing owls digging in the sandy soil.

The Huaca de las Ventanas in Batan Grande and the Bosque de Pomac, an archeological site in the north of Peru and an essential place to include when planning a trip to Peru

Deeper into the forest lies Batán Grande, thought to have been the source of anywhere up to 80% of the gold artifacts found in Peru.

A series of adobe pyramids rising out of the sand are all that remains of this stronghold, which belonged to the Sicán Culture between 800 and 1100 AD.

Although the pyramids have been well and truly plundered, you can walk among them and even on top of one in order to see the mottled, eroded lumps of other pyramids stretching out into the surroundings.

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.

You can enjoy views of the yellow cathedral from the affordable yet smart Costa del Sol (S/300 ($90 USD) double) and sample the city’s finest dining on a restored, 18th-century wooden balcony at El Celler de Cler .

The frieze murals on the side of the Huaca de la Luna near Trujillo and a top destination for those with an interest in history and archeology in Peru

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.

Just a short taxi ride from Trujillo, Huanchaco is a lazy backpacker’s beach town and a great place in Peru for kicking back and relaxing.

The real attraction here is its coastline, with long left-hand point breaks that are perfect for both beginners and more advanced surfers alike.

For those with more experience, there are plenty of tour companies that lead day trips out to more challenging waves in the vicinity.

At the beach, Huanchaco is also home to what is possibly an ancient type of surfboard. Caballitos del mar are rafts made from expertly tied totora reeds (the same stuff used for building the floating islands on Lago Titicaca) that were designed by the Mochica, and you can catch a ride with a local fisherman out into the bay.

This corner of Peru is just begging for you to stay a few days. Luckily, accommodation options abound, including the glorious tranquil yoga hostel, ATMA (S/22 ($7 USD) dorm, S/70 ($21 USD) double).

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.

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.

One of the relief carvings on a feline deity at Chavin de Huantar, Peru

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.

Nine Places to Visit in Central Peru

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 .

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 to slake your interest, 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.

The Marcahuasi “stone forest”

The human and animal shapes that can be spotted 4,000m above sea level among the eroded rocks of the Marcahuasi volcanic plateau have won this place small fame as one of the “seven wonders of Peru”.

This is no Mount Rushmore, but what the shapes lack in distinction due to their immense age they make up for in mysterious appeal: to this day, their exact origin remains unknown.

Wonderfully undiscovered, Marcahuasi doesn’t have substantial tourist infrastructure: while reachable by car from Lima in 3 hours, the bus takes longer and passes infrequently, so come prepared to camp or spend the night at Chosica or San Pedro de Casta.

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.

Although recently crowned Peru’s happiest city, Huancayo doesn’t often make it onto tourists’ Peru bucket lists.

The city is worth a visit for those wanting to experience authentic Peru and visit nearby attractions including the Torre Torre rock formations, the myth-shrouded Laguna de Paca, and the high-Andean villages of Cochas Chico and Cochas Grandes, famed for their intricate artisan gourds .

A carved gourd depicting scenes from Peruvian history in Cochas Grande near Huancayo, an unmissable place to visit in Peru

For spectacular views, catch the high-altitude train connecting Huancayo to Huancavelica, a 128km route that’s been running since 1926 and remains one of the highest in the world.

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.

A group of Humboldt penguins on the rocky Islas Ballestas, an unmissable place to visit in Peru

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.

Ica’s vineyards

While Argentina and Chile might be South America’s best-known wine-producing countries, Peru also has its own vineyards – even if the grapes are used for a different purpose.

Pisco is one of Peru’s most important exports. This grape brandy also forms the base of the country’s ubiquitous cocktail, the pisco sour. If you’ve never heard of this sweet drink then you clearly need to be hopping on the very next flight to Peru.

Trust me: this delicious cocktail of pisco, egg white, lime juice, and sugar syrup is morish – and can be somewhat lethal after you’ve drunk a few.

To get to grips with Peru’s favorite alcoholic drink, head out to the vineyards around Ica, where you can sample pisco and wine directly from the bodega (wine cellar) before enjoying a hearty lunch.

Head to Tacama or Tres Generacions for some of the best pisco.

Huacachina’s sand dunes

If you’ve ever wanted to wizz your way down a sandy hillside, surrounded for miles by undulating, golden folds of sand dunes, there’s one place in Peru that’s just for you: Huacachina.

This oasis village sits around the shores of a small lagoon and is flanked on all sides by towering sand dunes.

They’ve become popular in recent years thanks to the growing selection of sandboarding and sand buggy tours – the former where you strap a sandboard to your feet and the latter where you motor through the dunes, taking steep slopes at a nail-biting pace.

The sand dunes near Huacachina in central Peru, a popular place to visit in Peru

Unfortunately, increased tourism and the driving of vehicles over the sand dunes are doing some pretty serious environmental damage. What’s more, the lagoon is looking worse for wear due to unscrupulous visitors throwing rubbish into it.

If you want to still visit the dunes, a lower-impact activity is to hike up them at sunrise or sunset for spellbinding views (and no burns to the soles of your feet as you can expect walking on the sand during the day.

You can also ease the pressure by avoiding Huacachina between May and August when it’s at its most packed.

Ayacucho rewards those who make their way off the beaten track with a glimpse of authentic Andean Peru.

Take a day bus here from Cusco, Huancayo, or Pisco for an unforgettable journey winding through the mountains, then discover the city’s colonial architecture in the Plaza de Armas and the surrounding streets, where 33 churches give nearby Cusco a run for its money when it comes to colonial grandeur.

An intricate retablo in Ayacucho, one of the traditional crafts of the Central Sierra region of Peru

Even more fascinating is the city’s strong history of Peruvian folk art, notably the colorful retablos or mini altars that date to colonial times and are still made by artisans in the city.

They depict everything from religious scenes to folkloric festivals and – the most bizarre fact – is that they’re made from potato mixed with plaster of Paris! They make fantastic souvenirs and you’re unlikely to find them in many other parts of the country.

Outside of the city, there’s plenty to see as well. Make sure you venture into the surrounding countryside to explore the pre-Incan Wari ruins and tiny pottery town, Quinua.

Fourteen Places to Visit in Southern Peru

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).

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.

The Plaza de Armas in the historic core of Cusco and the Iglesia De La Compañia De Jesús, a church built by the Spanish and a central place to go on a trip to Peru

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 our 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).

Awana Kancha Llama Sanctuary

A stone’s throw from Cusco, Awana Kancha is a small reserve for llamas, alpacas, and guanacos.

Hop off the bus en route from Cusco to Pisaq to get up close and personal with South America’s woolly icons and learn about the different species and traditional textiles.

Once you’ve had your fill of llama selfies (if that’s even possible), walk up the road to the Cochahuasi animal sanctuary , a local, family-run organization that rescues and cares for mistreated and endangered animals, such as the magnificent Andean Condor.

An indigenous woman dressed in traditional clothing in Cusco, Peru with a llama

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.

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.

Hand-woven textiles in the market of Pisac in the Sacred Valley and an unmissable place to visit in Peru

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 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.

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.

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.

A couple sat in front of Humantay Lake the Salkantay trek, an alternative route to Machu Picchu, Peru

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.

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.

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).

Picture-perfect Rainbow Mountain near Cusco

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).

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.

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.

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.

Manu National Park, one of the best places to visit in Peru for wildlife watching

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

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.

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 .

Volcan Misti

Volcano Misti has become both an icon of Arequipa and gained infamy as the fourth most dangerous volcano in the world.

Misti stands at an impressive 5822 meters above sea level but is nevertheless one of Peru’s most easily accessible summits.

Volcano Misti towers over the city of Arequipa in Peru

Adrenaline seekers can hike to the top in roughly two days to check out the sizzling crater and enjoy stunning views over Arequipa and the Laguna de Salinas.

The Cañón del Colca

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.

The Colca Canyon, a popular trekking destination to add to your trip to Peru

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.

The Reserva Paisajística Subcuenca del Cotahuasi

The Cotahuasi Reserve is a paradise for those looking to get truly off the beaten trail in Peru’s tropical Andes. Its sierra landscape is dotted with Inca and Wari ruins, gushing waterfalls, and tiny villages.

You can raft down rapids, bathe in thermal springs, and visit the world’s deepest canyon – although nearby Colca canyon, being more easily accessible, gets way more limelight.

As a starting point, the town of Cotahuasi can be reached in 10-12 hours by car or bus from Arequipa.

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 must-stop on any tour of Peru.

Sunset from Isla Amantani across Lago Titicaca, an unmissable place to visit in Peru

The small city of Puno is a popular choice for tourists launching a day trip to the “floating islands” , hand built from reeds by the Uros people, but 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.

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 .

Add a bookmark to your browser or pin this to your Peru travel Pinterest board!

The mountains and ruins of Machu Picchu in the morning light and with overlaid text

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

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.

bird soaring above sandy desert cliffs toward a bay with blue rolling waves

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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What are you looking for?

25 best places to visit in peru [2024 local's travel guide].

Are you thinking of heading off to Peru?

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

Incredible Paracas National Reserve in Paracas, Peru

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

Excellent view from Yanahuara Mirador in Arequipa, Peru

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

Straw arch by the lakeside in Lake Titicaca, Puno, Peru

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

The elusive jaguar in the Peruvian Jungle in Puerto Maldonado, Peru

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

Majestic Yumbilla Waterfalls in 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

Let us know what you think.

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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

Amazon River
Galápagos Islands
Indonesian Archipelago
Mekong River
Irrawaddy River
India Cruises

Machu Picchu

Iguazu Falls
Peru Travel Guide

11 Top-Rated Peru Tourist Attractions To Visit

When it comes to discovering the history, culture, and natural features of South America, one country in particular offers all three and so much more. Located on the west coast of the continent, the country of Peru provides you with a wide diversity of landscapes to explore, cultural influences to experience, and activities to keep you busy or allow you to sit back and relax.

The biodiversity of Peru is astounding, featuring Amazon rainforests, Andean highlands, and coastal beaches. Famous and not-so-famous archeological sites span the country, including the stunning Machu Picchu , and provide unique opportunities to go outside your own comfort zone and explore some of the top tourist attractions in South America .

When you’re ready to start planning your itinerary, consider adding these 11 top-rated Peru tourist attractions.

View Of The Cathedral And Lima Main Square

1. Historic District of Lima

Spend time exploring the historic district of Peru’s capital city of Lima . Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the historic center is a beautiful and intriguing site to wander as you learn about its many secrets. Admire architectural wonders, cozy plazas, and astonishing interior design. Founded in the 1500s, the city has gone through natural disasters which have affected the buildings, but, fortunately, many of these have been restored or rebuilt. Tour the inside of the cathedral, with its vaulted ceiling, baroque furnishings, and checkerboard flooring. Other sites not to miss include the Casa del Oidor, Archbishop’s Palace, and the Government Palace.

2. Machu Picchu

Perhaps the most popular of the Peru attractions to visit is Machu Picchu. Listed as one of the new seven wonders of the world , Machu Picchu is known as the Incas’ ancient ceremonial center. Located high up above the Urubamba River, the complex set of ruins provides a dramatic setting against the lush mountain sides. Getting here will take time and planning, starting with a train ride from Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo to the small village of Aguas Calientes . From there, you will take a bus up to the ruins. You may also want to consider a one to four-day hike on the Inca Trail , which leads you into Machu Picchu for a rare experience.

Panoramic View Of Cusco Main Square

3. Historic City Center of Cusco

Enjoy another UNESCO World Heritage Site in the historical city of Cusco . The quaint city center provides the feel of a village, with the Plaza de Armas main square as the gathering place for restaurants , shops, and tours . Admire the colonial buildings, whose foundations are built from ancient Inca ruins. Walk along narrow roads, and explore impressive buildings, including the Cathedral , La Compania, and church of Santo Domingo.

Salta Mines In Maras, Sacred Valley – Peru

4. The Sacred Valley

Explore the Inca ruins found in this fertile valley and spend time in colorful towns and markets along the way. The Incas revered the location of the valley for its unique climate and geography, including its fertile soils for growing what they needed. Located in the Peruvian Andean highlands, the Sacred Valley includes such Peru must see sights as the Pisac Ruins and its Sunday Market, the fortress at Ollantaytambo , and salt mines in Maras .

The Floating Islands Of Uros On Lake Titicaca

5. Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca , the world’s highest navigable lake, is one of the top Peru attractions you’ll want to visit. If heading there on a sunny day, you’ll see sparkling blue water surrounded by the greenery of rolling hills. Small traditional villages dot the shoreline for a glimpse at true Peruvian culture. Climb aboard one of the boat tours for views of the various islands on the lake, including the Uros Floating Islands, a set of man-made islands constructed out of the local totora reeds. Other islands to visit include Isla Amantani and Isla Taquile.

Basilica Cathedral At Plaza De Armas Arequipa – Peru

6. The White City (Arequipa)

Visit what is often considered by many to be one of the most beautiful cities in all of South America. Arequipa sits amid snow-capped mountains and provides a cozy locale to stay for a day or two. Its historic center received the designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. Throughout, you will find architecture constructed out of a volcanic rock called sillar stone. Sillar Stone radiates its color when in direct sunlight and, as a result, gives rise to the city’s nickname of the “white city” of Peru.

Tourists At The Cruz Del Condor Viewpoint, Colca Canyon – Peru

7. Cañon del Colca

Prepare yourself for an overwhelming sight as you near the Cañon del Colca, or Colca Canyon. Twice the overall depth of the Grand Canyon, this canyon descends down to 3,400 meters to a winding river at its base. Admire the stone terracing among the canyon walls, dating back to AD 800. You can also enjoy exploring the surrounding areas, which include hot springs, villages, and Inca ruins. Bring your binoculars and camera as this is one of the best places to catch a sight of Andean condors and the giant hummingbird.

Nazca Lines, The Monkey

8. Nazca Lines

South of the capital city of Lima, you’ll find the Nazca desert. What is famous here is the mysterious Nazca Lines . Throughout the desert, these lines and drawings are visible only from the air and include the Monkey, the Spider, the Condor, the Dog, the Hummingbird, the Small Lizard, and the Astronaut. In all, there are some 70 animal and plant drawings in the desert, along with geometrical shapes and various lines. Thought to be created somewhere between 900 BC and AD 600, debate continues as to their origin and reason for creation. Book your tour flight before arriving, or try your luck with one of the first-come, first-serve offerings.

Group Of 3 Species Of Macaws Flying From The Clay

9. Reserva Nacional Tambopata (Amazon)

Experience the gateway to the Amazon Rainforest at the Reserva Nacional Tambopata near Puerto Maldonado , a short flight from Cusco. Situated in one of the more biodiverse areas of Peru, the reserve covers over 740,000 acres and is home to endangered species as well as native communities. Here you will glimpse monkeys, caimans, capybara, turtles, parrots, and various other wildlife. One way to experience the reserve is to stay in a jungle lodge for a few days or longer and immerse yourself in its surroundings.

Beautiful Decorative Designs On The Stone Walls In The Ruins Of Kuelap

10. Kuélap Stone Fortress in Chachapoyas

Enter into the cloud forest region of Peru by way of the city of Chachapoyas. Long before the Incas, distinctive cultures lived and thrived here and left behind the unique site of Kuélap . This imposing stone fortress features 20-meter-high walls and is an impressive structure to admire and explore. Less visited by crowds of tourists than many other top Peru sights, the fortress offers space to explore without the need to rush.

Paragliding In Miraflores, Lima – Peru

11. Miraflores District of Lima

When looking for a break from exploring ancient ruins, rainforests, and various natural attractions, enjoy a few days in the Miraflores District of Lima. Consisting of upscale accommodations, shopping, and world-class restaurants, here you’ll see how modern-day Peruvians live. You can also roam through the Amano Pre-Columbian Textile Museum or the Ricardo Palma Museum located in the writer’s former home. For an additional treat, take in a show at The Centro Cultural PUCP, an art-house cinema and theater in the nearby district of San Isidro.

There you have it, the top 11 Peru attractions to visit on your next trip to South America. Whether you wish to enjoy the incredible natural sites, immerse yourself in the culture of Peru, or explore ancient and mysterious archeological sites, a trip to this South American country and its must-see attractions will remain one of your favorite vacations ever.

While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.

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Peru Travel Guide
Where to Go in Peru

15 Best Tourist Attractions in Peru

Tourist attractions in Peru provide a glimpse into nature and history

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Peru is one of the most compelling destinations in South America . Not only is it among the safest and easiest countries in the region for travel, but it is also blessed with a diverse range of attractions to appeal to all tastes. From ancient archaeological ruins to world-class hiking opportunities and dense jungles teeming with wildlife to sophisticated city-dining, Peru truly has something for everyone.

Here are the 15 best attractions in Peru that should not be missed, in no particular order.

Douglas Lewns

1. Machu Picchu

The unrivalled premier Peru attraction is Machu Picchu . The world-famous ruins and trekking destination need no introduction and for many, they are the main reason to visit the country. No trip to Peru would be complete without seeing the enigmatic and ancient mountain-top city. Despite the crowds, very few leave disappointed.

Huayna Picchu hike will introduce you to tough uphill trails

Entrance fees: Basic entrance ticket is around USD 65 excluding extra service or agent fees. Climbing Huayna Picchu is extra.
Tip: Visitors to Machu Picchu are limited to only 2,500 per day and visitors to Huayna Picchu are 400 only per day. Book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

2. The Choquequirao Ruins

Lesser known than Machu Picchu and much more seldom seen are "the other Machu Picchu ruins", which is the Choquequirao Ruins. These are perhaps all the more intriguing because the ruins have not undergone the extensive excavations or restoration work as compared to Machu Picchu, and offer a much more authentic experience. Visiting Choquequirao requires a four-day trek and you are unlikely to see many other tourists anywhere along the trail.

Choquequirao trek trails are difficult with lots of uphill walking

Entrance fees: Around USD 20, excluding service or agent fees
Best time to visit: April – October

3. Cordillera Blanca Treks

Peru is one of the top trekking destinations and the Cordillera Blanca is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. The most popular route is the Santa Cruz trek , a four-day walk through the spectacular high Andes that is nevertheless accessible to anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. Popular day-hikes include walks to the stunning Laguna 69 and the equally attractive Laguna Churup .

Santa Cruz is one of the best treks in Peru.

Best time to visit: May – October

4. The Nazca Lines

One of the more exquisite and enigmatic sights in Peru is the mysterious Nazca Lines. These giant drawings of people, animals and other geometric shapes, some up to 100m in length, were carved into the desert around 2000 years ago. Their true purpose remains obscure; some think they were a way of communicating with the gods, others believe they had an astronomical function, while others still subscribe to more outlandish theories. Take a flight to see them from above and decide for yourself.

Entrance fees: No entrances fees exactly, but other items will cut into your budget. Getting to the area can be expensive, and then expect to pay around USD 50 – 100 for a half-hour flight over the Nazca Lines, or more for longer time. For convenience, consider a tour that includes the lines.
Best time to visit: After sunrise or before sunset

5. Colca Canyon

In recent years, travellers looking for new destinations off the beaten track have begun discovering the remote Colca Canyon . Access is from Arequipa , Peru’s second largest city, and the canyon offers many activities such as hikes, hot springs and the chance to catch sight of majestic condors soaring overhead. All this in an area that is still largely unaffected by tourism – although it is now becoming much more popular. Go for the 2-day Colca Canyon trek to see the best of what the Canyon offers.

Agricultural Terraces in Colca Canyon predates to the arrival of Incas.

Entrance fees: 70 soles (USD 22) for entrance to Colca Canyon
Best time to visit: May – November

6. Cotahuasi Canyon

Farther north from the Colca Canyon lies the remote Cotahuasi Canyon, a massive canyon destination for the truly adventurous. It is a stunning spot that offers a taste of timeless indigenous cultures and village life that have changed little in centuries. Consider going for a 4 day trek to perhaps one of the best Peru attractions if you are a keen explorer or have a little more time to spare, or take a tour for a bit more convenience. A highlight is that you will barely see any other tourists.

7. Pisac Ruins and Market

An easy day-trip from Cusco (only about 33 km, or an hour drive) takes you to the small town of Pisac. There you will find several groups of picturesque Inca ruins in the surrounding hills as well as highly photogenic Inca agricultural terraces that are still in use to this day. The ruins are popular and highly-rated, but much quieter than Machu Picchu. The town also plays host to a bustling market on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.

Entrance fees: Entrance to the ruins is included in the Cusco boleto integra ticket, which costs 130 soles (USD 40).
Best time to visit: Can be visited year-round. April – October is the dry season.

8. Lima’s Catacombs

One of the country’s more macabre attractions, but no less fasctinating. Beneath the Museo de la Iglesia y Convento San Francisco in Lima lies an extensive network of catacombs dating back to when the city’s cemeteries were located beneath churches. It makes for a fascinating visit – but exploration of these subterranean tunnels packed with tombs is not for the faint of heart or those prone to claustrophobia. There are also plenty of other interesting things to do in Lima to add to your explorations!

The Plaza de Armas is the birthplace of the city of Lima

Entrance fees: 7 soles (USD 2)
Best time to visit: Year-round

9. Maras Salt Pans

The small town of Maras, situated around 40 km from Cusco, is famed for its collection of salt pans that have been in use since pre-Inca times. The salt from the ponds is harvested by the local community according to a system of cooperation that has been in use since the arrival of the Incas, if not before. The salt pans are easy to visit from Cusco and this ancient feat of engineering makes for a worthwhile day-trip.

Entrance fees: 10 soles (USD 3)
Best time to visit: April – November

The whole country is dotted with Inca ruins but one of the most unique is Moray, now thought to have been an agricultural laboratory set up by the Incas. This site demonstrates the levels of sophistication of Inca engineering techniques as they experimented with growing crops usually cultivated at lower altitudes – definitely a must-see Peru attraction!

Entrance Fees: Included in the Cusco boleto integral ticket, which costs 130 soles (USD 40).
Best time to visit: April – October

11. Manu National Park

One of the world’s most important biodiversity hotspots containing still-uncontacted tribes, this protected area is so important that most of it is completely off-limits to tourists. Fortunately, a large area of forest is still accessible, and those making their way there can look forward to a true jungle adventure filled with camping, walking, exploring the natural sights and spotting Peru’s wildlife.

Parque Nacional Manu one of the largest parks in South America

Entrance fees: Entrance to the cultural zone is round S10 (USD 3); for the reserved zone, you must travel with one of the eight official agencies who will offer a price for the whole tour.
Best time to visit: May – August

12. Vinicunca aka the ‘Rainbow Mountains’

The Rainbow Mountains have not been on the tourist circuit for long, but it has fast become an essential stop. This strange geological formation can be seen on a day-trip from Cusco and involves a tough hike up to 5,020 m for the best views of the multicoloured mountain. The Rainbow Mountains is an essential stop on the Ausangate trek as well.

An indigenous woman walking on the Ausangate trekking trail

Best time to visit: May – September

13. Sacsaywamán

Although it is believed the area was occupied from around 900 CE, the construction of this massive megalithic citadel probably began in the 13th century. Sacsaywamán is one of the most impressive sights in and around Cusco and can be reached on foot from Cusco. After the tough but rewarding 2 km hike up to the site, you will be left to marvel at just how the Incas managed to haul the giant stones there to erect these impressive defences.

Entrance fees: 130 soles (USD 40)

14. Qorikancha

One of the most interesting things to do in Cusco is visiting the Sun Temple, once the most important temple in the Incan empire. Qorikancha, meaning ‘golden enclosure’, was practically destroyed by Spanish conquistadors in the 16 th century and the Santo Domingo church was built in its place. Before its destruction, the temple would have been a stunning sight to behold, with walls covered in gold sheets and courtyards filled with gold and silver statues.

Entrance fees: 15 soles (USD 5)

15. Kuélap – Chachapoyas

In the cloud forests of northern Peru lies the city of Chachapoyas , the gateway to the eponymous region. A distinct and thriving culture existed here well before the arrival of the Incas and the most significant site is Kuélap, an imposing fortress with massive stone walls up to 20 m high. This hugely impressive structure ranks as one of the most underrated of the Peru attractions and should feature on any list of what to see in Peru.

Entrance fees: 382 soles (USD 102.57)

With so many amazing things to do in Peru , it is no wonder that this country is always at the top of many bucket lists. A visit to this enchanting country will bring you closer to nature, archeological wonders and historical facts — wouldn't that make for an awesome holiday? If you are already in Lima then check out the best ways to travel from Lima to Cusco , Cusco to Puerto Maldonado that is the gateway to Manu National Park, Lima to Machu Picchu and Lima to Huaraz that opens to the gorgeous Cordillera Blanca range in North Peru.

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The Top 10 Peru Destinations to Visit in 2024

Peru is becoming more and more popular each year thanks to the amazing and diverse destinations within the country. So much more than just its endless natural beauty and spectacular landscapes, Peru is plentiful in tradition and folklore, and is guaranteed to captivate your heart from the moment that you step foot in the country. Discover the Top 10 Peru destinations of 2024 in all three regions; the Coast, the Highlands and the Jungle, and experience the 3 different types of weather that help to characterize each region. Sit back, relax, and read up on these Peru destinations while learning about the best things to see in Peru.

For anyone exploring the wonders of South America, a trip to Cusco is all but compulsory. This ancient city is one of the most important historic cities in Peru, and so a must on your list of Peru destinations. If you are on the hunt for adventure, culture and traditional peruvian food , this is the perfect place for you. Machu Picchu and the Lost City of the Incas is definitely a bucket list item that you need to check off during your trip to Cusco. The citadel of machu picchu is hidden high in the Andes mountains, and showcases the architectural prowess of the Incas.

Experiencing the Inca Trail, or any of the treks to Machu Picchu, is a must for those who love hiking. The Inca trail path follows an original network of Inca transportation trails. Its beautiful landscapes and local animals ( llamas and viscachas, a kind of ancient rabbit) makes Machu Picchu one of the most interesting places to visit in the whole country.

There is another place that you simply cannot miss out during your visit to Cusco; the Rainbow Mountain . It’s called “rainbow” for the waves of colour that decorate its hills, these colors are a result of different minerals and eroding sedimentary rocks. The colors of the mountain range from turquoise to gold, from rust red to pink. Here, it’s like the rainbow is at your feet. There are one day hikes available to reach the mountain, or you pass by on the Ausangate trek; both of these options are amazing.

Known as the “White City”, Arequipa has plenty of great things to add to your trip. Enjoy the city by foot, and spend a little time delighting your palate with local dishes like rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers), or attractive local deserts such as queso helado (a special ice-cream).

No list of things to do in Arequipa would be complete without visiting the magnificent, yawning Colca Canyon . This place is another must for any hiking lover . If you’re planning on doing a trek in Arequipa, it is recommended to spend at least one day in the city to acclimatize to the altitude. Colca Canyon is a great place to get a glimpse of the majestic Condor, the bird of Peru, in an otherworldly landscape.

Puno- Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca in Puno is home to the famous man-made islands that sit on top of the crystallised water, also known as the Uros Floating Islands . They were created completely out of buoyant Totora reeds, a bulrush sedge that grows on the edge of the lake, stacked on top of each other. The people living there are continuously adding new layers to the top as the bottom disintegrates over the years. Take your time to visit the one-of-a-kind traditional reed houses built on top of the islands, and enjoy this welcoming community along with the endless beauty of the magnificent Lake Titicaca. Discover for yourself why this is a must see destination in Peru.

Peru’s capital, Lima , definitely deserves a couple of days to get to know. Spend some time wandering around the historical center and the Plaza de Armas; it is full of historic wonders and museums , taking a tour is recommended so that you don’t miss anything. Make sure not to miss the opportunity to sample local food and drink, like the classic pisco sour or ceviche while you’re here.

If you’re looking for fun and parties, Barranco is the perfect place for you. There are plenty of bars, theaters and art galleries to include during your visit, and an abundance of street art decorating the walls. Take the time to get to know this old bohemian neighborhood, you wont regret it.

If you like paragliding , or want to try it out, Malecón of Miraflores is the place for you. There are outings available to help you experience this adventure over the Pacific Ocean. Finish up on the perfect afternoon by watching the sunset over the ocean.

Paracas is a great spot for those who are looking for a break for a few days. Rich in history, wildlife, and peace and quiet, it’s a perfect spot to relax. A day trip to Islas Ballestas is a must on your visit. The islands are known locally as “the poor man’s Galapagos” and can be reached by boat from Paracas port. They are the home of an abundance marine life and variety of bird species, and are comprised of craggy cliffs and huge rock formations. This makes them the perfect place for hundreds of sea lions, endangered Humboldt penguins and pelicans to call home. Enjoy the trip out to sea; the boat will maintain a small distance from the islands, but you are sure to see loads of wildlife coming up close. You will find this to be the perfect time to take nice photos of dolphins or the noisy sea lions resting on the rocks and swimming around the boat, everyone loves it!

If this is not enough wildlife for you, then take a visit to the Paracas National Reserve, it is guaranteed to make your trip even better. It’s even possible to camp inside the reserve.

Huacachina Desert Oasis

Located just 4 hours south of Lima, close to the city of Ica, Huacachina is a small desert town built around a perfect, natural oasis. It’s a wonderful place to escape from routine and stress. Huacachina is very famous due to its huge sand dunes, and travelers arrive here in droves to do one of the must-do activities in Peru: sandboarding on the dunes.

To get to the dunes one must first sign up for a dune buggy tour. This is an unforgettable experience where local guides drive through the dunes in incredibly powerful desert cars. The tour gets even better when you arrive at the top of these huge dunes; the views are unforgettable and, even better, the sandboarding is about to start.

Surfing the dunes is not the only thing to do in this area. Ica is just five minutes away by car and is famous for its Pisco and wine vineyards . It is known all over Peru as the home of Pisco, even with a small town in the province adopting the name. Don’t miss out the Vineyard tour and discovering the history of the drink, seeing how it is made and trying a few samples of the national beverage.

Chachapoyas

Located in Northern Peru, Chachapoyas has everything in one place: culture, adventure, food and fun. Spend a full day discovering the wonderful Kuelap Fortress; also known as the “Machu Picchu of the North”. The magnificent citadel consists of more than 400 constructions built by the Chachapoyas culture. This ancient complex is attracting more tourists each year thanks to the new cable car system that offers a unique experience: an aerial view of the archaeological site.

If you’re a real adventure lover, don’t miss Gocta Waterfalls, considered the third highest waterfall in the world. Keep in mind that the hike to get to the waterfalls is about 5 or 6 hours (there and back), so be sure to take plenty of water and some food with you.

Nazca Lines

The mysterious Nazca Lines are located in the arid Peruvian desert province of Nazca , just a few hours from Lima. They were first discovered in the late of 1920s by the peruvian archeologist Toribio Mejia Xesspe and further explored in the 1930’s as air traffic increased.

The origin of these enigmatic drawings is still a mystery: there are plenty of theories and beliefs, one of the most popular of which suggests that the lines were made by aliens, or made in an effort to contact aliens. Here, you can enjoy the many different kinds of enormous etchings with different designs spread over 80 km of dessert. You will see animals like the condor, hummingbirds and a pelican; different designs of flowers and plants, objects and anthropomorphic figures. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover this exquisite freak of design.

This is a must on your list of Peru destinations. Perfect for those who love beaches, laying on the sand and getting suntanned, Mancora offers beautiful sunny days almost all year round. Even though Mancora is a small town, you’ll find nice cafés, restaurants and wide variety budget hotels and hostels. If you’re planning to surf, the recommended season is from November to February, when the water is warm and waves are good for beginners. While visiting the coast you must sample some of the traditional favorite, ceviche. It is fresh fish marinated in lime and chilli, accompanied by salad and corn.

Located in the north jungle of Peru, Tarapoto is one of the most interesting destinations in the country. For a one day adventure, just 20 minutes from Tarapoto visit Ahuashiyacu waterfalls. Here, you can swim in the natural pools and discover the local wildlife. Don’t forget to bring you own food, as there are no restaurants around.

If you’re looking for something cultural to do, then a visit to Lamas Castle (in Lamas) will show you a meeting of two worlds: the European world and the world of Native Americans. There is also a town center just down the hill from here, with a few market stalls and indigenous celebrations.

Once you are back in the main town of Tarapoto there is a famous street called Calle de las Piedras (or Stones Street) that you can’t miss. It’s loaded with plenty of bars, like Stonewasi or Montañitas, that will make your stay even better with a couple of traditional drinks that are guaranteed to start any party. Just a few blocks away, you’ll find many locals eating typical Tarapotian food, like Juanes or Tacacho con Cecina, all at affordable prices. Once you’ve lined your stomach ready for an evening of partying, Anaconda and Pachanga are the popular discotheques in Tarapoto; they are open from Wednesday to Sunday.

Don’t Miss the Top 10 Peru Destinations

These are some of the best things to see in Peru. If you’re on the hunt for beautiful places to see, archeological destinations to discover or just places to have fun and make new friends, you’ll find everything you want in our list of the top 10 Peru destinations in 2024. Start planning your next trip to Peru now!

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Salkantay trekking companyy.

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru

If you’ve booked a vacation to Peru or are considering it as your next destination, we’re sure you’ve been wondering what places you should visit. Selecting places and different attractions for your itinerary can be a stressful and difficult process.

Well, sit back and put your feet up because we’ve done the hard work for you. Read on to find out more about tourism in Peru as well as the best tourist attractions in the country. This way, you can spend less time planning your get away and more time enjoying it.

What Is Peru Famous For?

Peru is most famous for the Inca culture that was prevalent between the 1400s and 1500s. You’ll see their influence all over the country, but mostly in Cusco and the Andean regions. If you have the time, there are many archaeological sites to visit that give you a glimpse into the past, and we talk about some of the most important ones below.

The country is also known for the Spanish influence and across the cities you’ll see some fantastic architecture, especially in the city centers. We’ve got a few suggestions of some spots to check out so you get to see the biggest variety as possible.

What Is Tourism Like in Peru?

Many tourists visit the country every year. A majority will head to Cusco, but a lot of them also visit Arequipa, Puno, and Lima, as well as some other well known spots. There’s plenty to see and the country is very diverse, meaning you can visit a lot of different climates and landscapes in a short period.

It has extensive coastline, tropical jungle, and tall mountains. The high season tends to be between May and October, also the dry season, and the rest of the year is the quiet/wet season. This doesn’t mean you can’t travel then, though. You can still visit most attractions and enjoy discounts and offers at restaurants and many hotels.

The country attracts thousands of visitors every year for the stunning landscapes, delicious food and drink, and the wonderful, friendly locals.

Best Places to Visit in Peru

Now to get into what you really came here for. Below are our top 15 tourist attractions in the whole of Peru. We’ve included a real variety so there’s something for everyone and for you to visit as many different places as possible.

Machu Picchu

Without doubt, Machu Picchu is the most famous place in Peru and the one attraction that we’re sure almost every visitor to the country visits. It’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The majestic Inca citadel looks absolutely stunning, sitting up high on the mountain side surrounded by greenery and over the Urubamba River. It’s no wonder the Incas chose this spot as it’s just incredible.

You’ll need to get to the city of Cusco first and then make your way to the archaeological site, which you can do by trekking, or by car and train. You’ll definitely need to book ahead during the busy months, especially if you want to hike the extra mountain of Huayna Picchu as it sells out months in advance.

Misty mystical Machu Picchu poking through the clouds. Feel the magic for yourself.

The Inca Trail

This is known as one of the best treks in the whole world, and was recognised so by National Geographic. The Classic Trek is 4 days long and takes you to Machu Picchu where you enter through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). This is the only route that allows you to enjoy the sunset upon entering through this way.

The trail offers exciting stops at different archaeological sites along the way as well as the fact that you walk along the same route that the Incas themselves once did. You can’t get much more exhilarating than that!

The trek books out months in advance, so you need to plan well if you want to walk along it. There are only a certain number of spots per day. You also need to reserve through an agency and can’t go alone. You need a special permit to access the trail.

Inca trail is an exciting place where you can appreciate various archaeological centers.

Sacred Valley

If you’re in Cusco, one of the places you absolutely must see is the Sacred Valley. When you visit and observe the luscious landscape and rolling hills with the river running through the middle, you’ll understand why it got its name.

The Incas were excellent agriculturists and the valley gave them a great source for growing all kinds of crops and having constant access to water. There are some fantastic archaeological sites in the area to visit, including Pisac, Huchuy Qosqo, and Ollantaytambo.

You can enjoy a day trip to some of the sites or stay in the valley itself and take your time visiting all the different locations. There are some wonderful spas to relax in and spend a few days at to escape the city and get out in the country.

ollantaytambo located in the sacred valley of the Incas surrounded by mountains

Humantay Lake

One of the most fantastic sights you;ll likely see in your lifetime is Humantay Lake. It’s known as the jewel in the mountain and you’ll see why when you observe the emerald turquoise waters set against the crisp white snow from the surrounding glaciers and mountain tops.

There are a couple of ways you can enjoy the attraction. If you’re staying in Cusco, you can opt for a one day tour where you’ll head to the lake and come back in the evening. Alternatively, you can book the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu and see it on your first afternoon of the route.

It’s really a great opportunity to see one of Mother Nature’s most beautiful masterpieces and capture some amazing shots to show friends and family back home.

humantay lagoon one of the most beautiful natural treasures is located in cusco.

Rainbow Mountain

Staying in Cusco and with Mother Nature’s finest, we highly recommend a day trip to see Vinicunca, aka Rainbow Mountain. Very few places on the planet boast such a vast array of colors in one place, and it’s all natural!

You’ll be heading high into the Andean Mountains (5,200 masl to be exact). Once you get to the top of the hike you’ll be able to observe Vinicunca in all its glory as well as the fantastic surrounding landscape.

If you have more time and energy, you can opt to hike to the Red Valley as well. This is a great addition and looks like you’re on the planet Mars! If you want to have more of an adventure, you can also visit as part of the Ausangate Trek.

A spectacular Tour to the Mountain of Seven Colors awaits you Take a hike to the Vinicunca mountain one of the new natural attractions.

Choquequirao

Our final stop in Cusco is to the last site that the Incas occupied before the Spanish Invasion. It’s Choquequirao and it’s fabulous. Just like Machu Picchu, it sits up high in the mountains and is said to be bigger. However, it’s not all uncovered yet.

There are a few treks that go to Choquequirao , between 4 and 8 days, and it’s a real adventure as you can only get to it on foot. This means that there aren’t large crowds and it’s a much more off the beaten path trek.

If you want to enjoy this rustic and exciting trek, you’ll probably need to be well-planned and book a little in advance. This is because it isn’t as popular as Machu Picchu so there aren’t groups leaving daily.

Choquequirao is considered one of the last bastions of resistance and refuge of the Incas.

Manu National Park

If you’re a fan of wildlife and getting away from the hustle and bustle of normal life, a trip to the Manu National Park is a wonderful idea. It sits in the Cusco and Madre de Dios departments of Peru and covers a whopping 17,163 km².

The park covers highlands of the Andes, the cloud forest, and lowland jungle. It’s a bird lovers paradise as there’s a huge variety, including macaws that feed at various clay licks throughout the park.

You can also enjoy a ride along the Manu River through thick Amazon jungle and spot jaguars, monkeys, and even caimans. It’s a true adventure for the explorer within you and one that you really shouldn’t miss out in Peru.

The Manu National Park is a protected natural area located in the southeast of Peru.

Lake Titicaca

Now we head to Puno, which is close to Peru’s border with Bolivia, to the highest navigable lake in the entire world. Lake Titicaca is well-known across the globe and spans across parts of Peru and Bolivia.

On the Peruvian side you can try some delicious trout fresh from the lake or walk along the edge enjoying the expansive view.

The most popular activity at this attraction is to head out to the Islands of Uros. These are floating islands made of reeds where people live and work. Enjoy a tour hopping from one island to the next, getting to know how the people make a living and checking out their cutesy artisan products that you can buy as a souvenir or a gift for a loved one.

Titicaca is a high mountain lake that has a rich biodiversity.

Colca Canyon

This expansive and very impressive canyon is twice as deep as the infamous Grand Canyon. It reaches a depth of 3,400 meters and came about because of a seismic fault between two volcanoes.

You’ll need to add Arequipa to your itinerary if you want to enjoy a trek through the canyon. You can opt to go on a day trip, but there are longer excursions from two to four days that prove to be more popular because it’s a 4 hour drive from the city.

Enjoy trekking through the canyon or observing the incredible condor soaring in mid-flight, which has the longest wingspan of all birds. In addition you can visit hot springs, churches, villages, and Inca ruins.

The Colca canyon is one of the most impressive and deepest in the world.

Nazca Lines

This attraction is probably one of the most iconic in Peru and we’re sure most of you will recognise images of this sprawling place. The Nazca Lines are still part mystery to locals and archaeologists alike. They were discovered in the 1920s from the air when they noticed the lines created patterns.

They’re believed to have been formed by the Paracas and Nazca cultures within the period 900 BC and AD 600. We don’t exactly know what they were made for, but there’s some speculation, including:

A running track
Alien runway
Astronomical calendar for agriculture

In the same region, you’ll find the Cemetery of Chauchilla, which contains Nazca mummies and remains.

The Nazca Lines are located in the Pampas de Jumaná, Ica región.

Lima City Center

You can’t come to Peru and not spend a few days in the nation’s capital, Lima. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds lots of historical value as well as some beautiful buildings.

It’s a lovely place to spend the afternoon wandering around. It was founded in the 1500’s, but a lot of the original buildings have been destroyed since then, unfortunately.

The Plaza de Armas is the center and there are important places to spot including the Government Palace as well as the Archbishop’s Palace. Nearby is also Jiron de la Union, which is an excellent spot to grab a bite to eat or do some holiday shopping.

Lima es la capital y la ciudad principal de la República del Perú. Se encuentra situada en la costa central del país.

Now we’re heading to a cool and hip spot in Lima called Barranco. It’s easy to get to the center but you’re also right by the ocean and some spectacular views. It’s also next to another hot spot, Miraflores.

There’s a spectacular laid back vibe to this area and it’s a really chilled place to head for an evening stroll or explore all the little streets. There’s so much colorful colonial architecture and you can spot the sea from various locations.

Barranco is full of artists and poets and has a real bohemian feel to it. There are some of the city’s best restaurants here to enjoy sunset and dinner with an ocean view as well as cool cafes to enjoy your morning cup of joe. The most visited part of Barranco is Puente de Los Suspiros.

Barranco is full of artists and poets and has a true bohemian air.

It’s now time to head to Huacanchina in Ica to the middle of the desert. This is an idyllic oasis village in the middle of sand dunes surrounded by palm trees. It’s stunning and absolutely picture perfect.

Some of the dunes reach 1,000 meters high and make for some really fun activities, including sandboarding and dune buggies, which literally go flying over the top. This is an excellent location for thrill seekers.

In the evening you can enjoy dinner and cocktails as you contemplate on your trip. The climate here is dry and sunny all year round, so you don’t need to worry so much about the wet season.

Huacachina is a desert oasis and a small village just west of the city of Ica.

Paracas National Reserve

This reserve is near Pisco, in the south of Peru. It’s sometimes referred to as the poor man’s Galapagos as you get plenty of chances to spot some fantastic wildlife, like seal lions, dolphins, pelicans, and penguins.

It’s a great destination if you’re traveling with kids for them to see the natural habitat of some of their favorite animals. Head out on boat tours daily in the morning or afternoon and try to catch a glimpse of rare otters of the endangered Humboldt penguins.

In addition to spectacular wildlife, the region contains a lot of archaeological sites that the Paracas culture built many hundreds of years ago.

Paracas one of the places that has the most beautiful beaches in Peru.

If you love the beach and feeling like you’re in paradise, you’ll love Mancora. This town has some of the best beaches in the whole of Peru, and you’ll have many spots to set down your towel and sunbathe or head out on your surfboard.

At night, the town really comes to life and there are some really cool nightclubs, bars, and restaurants to enjoy some delicious food and tasty cocktails. There’s a trendy vibe with all the surfers heading out for the night after riding the waves.

During some parts of the year, you can spot migrating whales just offshore. This really is an idyllic place to relax and get away from it all while you have a wild time.

Mancora is a beach that attracts many surfers for its gigantic waves.

Iquitos and the Amazon River

Some say that this destination in Peru is better than Manaus, its counterpart in the Brazilian rainforest. You can only get to this tropical city by air or river, which makes it exciting in itself. You’re really going to get away from everything you know here.

You get the chance to see some incredible wildlife in a very unspoilt part of the world. You can enjoy a beautiful cruise down the river to spot animals and tropical plants as well as try out some of the exotic dishes in the city.

Being the world’s largest city that you can’t get to by road, you’ll need to plan a little ahead and book everything in advance.

The Amazon River is a river in South America that runs through Peru, Colombia, and Brazil. It is the longest and mightiest river in the world.

Time to Start Planning

Well, that’s it folks. Our top 15 tourist attractions across the whole of Peru. Pick and choose the ones that appeal to you most, or take a sabbatical and visit them all! Whichever ones you decide to go to, we’re sure you;ll be amazed by the natural beauty and biodiversity the country offers.

Written by: Liv Palmer

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Alternative Treks

Machu Picchu One Day Tour
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Sacred Valley of The Incas 1 Day
Ausangate Rainbow Mountain 1 Day
Huchuy Qosqo Trek 1 Day
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Sky Camp & Humantay Lake 2 Days

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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 .

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The 7 Best tourist attractions in Peru – Discover Them!

Peru is one of the most visited countries in South America and the world, it has several tourist attractions that make it a popular and seductive destination.

Table of Contents

The Best tourist attractions in Peru

Peru’s charm and mystique stem from its three distinct natural regions: the Coast, the Sierra, and the Jungle. Travelers can engage in a wide variety of activities, from sports and outdoor adventures to visits to cultural and natural sites. Here is a list of the 7 top tourist attractions in Peru :

Arequipa: Colca Canyon

Arequipa is one of Peru’s most beautiful cities and the second most populous. It boasts stunning colonial architecture, including churches, temples, monasteries, and mansions dating back to the time of the Spanish conquest. This beautiful city is a perfect tourist destination, combining the beauty of its green countryside with the imposing presence of its volcanoes and snow-capped peaks. Its main tourist attractions include the Misti Volcano, Colca Canyon, the Plaza de Armas, and the Santa Catalina Monastery. PERU GRAND TRAVEL offers tours to Arequipa .

Cusco: Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu

Cusco is undoubtedly one of the most important destinations in the country and the world. It offers visitors a rich historical and monumental legacy. Its tourist attractions include the Plaza de Armas, the Temple of the Sun (Koricancha), the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay, the SACRED VALLEY, which includes Pisac, Calca, Yucay, Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, Chinchero, Maras, as well as activities like the Inca Trail . But above all, there’s MACHU PICCHU , an architectural gem built with the wisdom of the ancient Incas. If you wish to travel without any worries, contact PERU GRAND TRAVEL for a tour to explore all the tourist destinations in Cusco and to visit Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu - tourist attractions in Peru

Lima: The City of Kings

Lima is the capital and the country’s main gateway. It is one of South America’s most popular destinations, known for its gastronomy and the many charms it has to offer. Lima boasts numerous colonial constructions, museums, pre-Hispanic archaeological sites, and a wide variety of cultural shows, folk performances, nightlife entertainment centers, luxurious casinos, and Peruvian cuisine. Its main tourist attractions include the Plaza de Armas and the Historic Center, the Magical Water Circuit, the National Museum, as well as various shopping centers and restaurants.

Iquitos: The Amazon River

Iquitos is the ideal destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts. It offers an abundance of options, such as navigating the Amazon River and its tributaries, embarking on expeditions deep into the jungle from lodges located in the heart of the rainforest, and exploring the National Parks and Reserved Areas, which are home to lush flora and fauna. A must-visit destination in Peru, don’t miss Pacaya Samiria.

Nazca: The Nazca Lines

This destination is unique in the world due to its mystery and mystique. Nazca is located in the central-southern region of Peru. Its most important attractions include the famous Nazca Lines, an enigmatic archaeological site located 450 kilometers south of Lima. Here, enormous geometric figures perfectly harmonize to create drawings of animals, plants, objects, humans, and gods. However, many of these figures are only visible from the air during overflights. You can also visit the archaeological complexes of Cahuachi, Estaquería, Chauchilla, Cantayoc, and the Palpa geoglyphs. You can explore all of this on a Nazca Lines tour.

Paracas: Ballestas Islands

Paracas is located on the shores of the Pacific Ocean in Ica, and it’s an ecological destination. Here, you’ll find the Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands, where you can get up close to a wide variety of marine creatures, including large sea lion colonies on the beaches and rocks. Paracas also offers historical culture through the archaeological remains of the Paracas Culture. Additionally, you can engage in water sports such as windsurfing, diving, and fishing.

Puno: Lake Titicaca

Puno is the third most visited city by foreign tourists in Peru, after Cusco and Lima. Located in the high Andes on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world and the largest in South America. This destination features beautiful landscapes and magnificent vestiges of pre-Hispanic cultures, along with some of the country’s most colorful popular festivals, such as the Feast of the Virgen de la Candelaria in February. From Puno, you can set sail on the blue waters to visit the famous and increasingly popular Titicaca Islands, such as Amantani and Taquile, and pass by the marvelous Floating Islands of the Uros, where you can immerse yourself in the life of the native people and experience cultural tourism.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most visited tours in peru.

Tour of the imperial city of Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley .
Gastronomic tour of Lima .
Tour of the Floating Islands of Uros and Taquile in Puno.
Tour of the colonial city of Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
Tour of Huacachina, Paracas, Nazca Lines.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu .
Amazon Tour.

What is the ideal season to travel to Peru?

April to October for visiting the highlands (Cusco, Machu Picchu, Puno, Arequipa).
June to August to explore the Amazon rainforest.
December to March for enjoying the beaches in the north.

What is the official currency in Peru, and can I use US dollars?

The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Although in some tourist areas and at border crossings with neighboring countries, US dollars (USD) may be accepted for transactions. However, it is advisable to carry and use the local currency to avoid potential currency exchange issues and get better prices for purchases and services. In general, it’s better to exchange currencies at authorized exchange houses.

What is the appropriate clothing to wear for a tour in Peru?

It’s essential to consider the climate and activities during your trip to Peru. In general, it’s recommended to wear comfortable and lightweight clothing for the day and something warmer for the evenings. In high-altitude areas like Cusco, warm clothing and layers are suggested to adapt to temperature changes. It’s important to respect cultural norms and avoid revealing clothing in conservative areas.

Is Peru a good family vacation destination?

Peru is an ideal tourist destination for families seeking unique adventures and cultures. Children can explore Inca archaeological sites, enjoy Peruvian cuisine, and experience the country’s natural beauty. Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Pacific coast are popular places to visit with the family.

Is it safe to travel to Peru?

In general, Peru is a safe tourist destination. Like anywhere in the world, there are areas that may be less safe than others. However, with basic precautions, you can enjoy a safe and trouble-free trip.

Make your dreams of exploring Inca Culture come true with our Peruvian travel agency that stands out for offering quality services and personalized attention at every stage of your journey. Our Peru vacation packages are meticulously designed to cater to all your travel preferences, whether you’re in search of an exciting adventure, a relaxing break, or unforgettable vacations. We provide flexible options so you can enjoy the experience that best suits your desires.

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Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru

Peru is a place that offers many experiences both to the tourists who visit and to the locals. The idea of adventure may appeal to some, but not so much to others. Perhaps you are interested in a backpacking adventure with hostel stays, or maybe you prefer a luxurious travel experience with full-time care. However, whatever way you want to explore the tourist attractions in Peru, the country has everything, from snow in high mountains, passing by mystic deserts, tropical beaches, lush Amazon, and arriving at the ancient Inca citadel in the Andes. Therefore, together with the travel experts of Machu Travel Peru , we have prepared a short article about how to explore Peru. With so many alternatives available, it is necessary to guide ourselves a little about everything there is to enjoy in this magical country.

Greatest Peru tourist attraction to spend with friends

Machu Picchu
The Sacred Valley
Sacsayhuaman
Humantay Lake
Rainbow Mountain
Choquequeirao
Lake Titicaca
Uros Islands
Sillustani Chullpas
The White City of Arequipa
Colca Canyon
Santa Catalina Monastery
The Nazca Lines
Huacachina Oasis
Paracas National Reserve
Ballestas Islands
Ancash and the White Mountain Range
Gocta Waterfall
Mancora beach
Manu National Park
Tambopata National Reserve
Pacaya Samiria National Reserve

1. Cusco city

The Imperial City is one of the obligatory stops for those who wish to visit the Machu Picchu complex. But it is also one of the most cosmopolitan and ancestral cities in the world making it the best place among Tourist Attractions in Peru. Besides being considered a UNESCO world heritage site . Cusco is located at an altitude of 3,399 meters above sea level, hence, you may need to relax for a few days to acclimatize.

You can take advantage of the time and get lost in its charming narrow alleys in its historic center between the end of the afternoon and the beginning of the night. Or visit its wonderful colonial churches, mixtures of religious art, and Andean beliefs located around its Plaza de Armas (Main square)

.Also, don’t miss one of the most important tourist sites in Peru and know why Cusco is considered the tourist capital of Peru . And, in case you are wondering if Cusco is safe to travel to, you have nothing to worry about. The main income of this city is tourism; therefore, you will see security measures taken all the time.

2. Machu Picchu

Being able to visit the Inca archaeological complex is one of the most fun things to do in Peru. Thousands of tourists tour the citadel per day, making it the number 1 tourist attraction in Peru . In consequence, if you hope to visit the longed-for Machu Picchu, you will need to reserve your ticket six months in advance at least so as not to miss the wonder of the world. To get to the citadel, you can go by train, plane, or even on a challenging 4-day tour . All options are unique and unforgettable experiences to do with friends. What are you waiting for? Dare to immerse yourself in one of the best tourist sites in Peru. And, in case you didn’t know, Peru is well known for Machu Picchu, its Andes jewel.

3. The Sacred Valley

The naturally beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas is located near Cusco. This is situated between the Andes Mountains, the valley presents a temperate climate and some of the most beautiful mountain peaks in South America. Besides, the valley has some of the most interesting villages and Inca ruins to visit, as well as a colorful Indian market in Pisac . Definitely, the Pisac town makes Sacred Valley one of the tourist attractions in Peru most visited.

By the way. Are you asking about the security in Peru for your tours? So, rest assured because Cusco, as the capital of tourism in Peru and the other tourist attraction in Peru, has tourism services of excellent quality. All of them include security in its facilities, surrounding areas, and structures like hotels, museums inter alia.

Do you want more examples? Well, Ollantaytambo Town is one of them; a picturesque town that still maintains the infrastructure of ancient Inca Settlement and is located on the lowlands of the hill of the same name. Chinchero is another proof, In its main square, you will see the barter trade of native communities that comes down from the surrounding hills. They barter products like potatoes, corn, and wheat.

In themselves, the different landscapes will be a spectacle to observe. Added to the incomparable peace, it forms an excellent refuge to relax for a few days. It is even at a lower altitude than Cusco, making it a better place for acclimatization.

Maras, the salt mines are located on the lowlands of Qacawiñay mountain, close to the Urubamba river basin, in the Sacred Valley zone. The current Maras inhabitants extract the salt between March to November (Dry Season) from the mines, just like the Incas did centuries ago. Indeed around 3,000 salt wells form the complex and are ready to receive you with their white pits and saltwater.

It is another great site that forms part of the tourist attractions in Peru. Moray is located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, to the north of Maras mines. Its tour means a previous step to know all types of Peruvian zone and, why not, do ecotourism in Peru . The circle terraces, that are going down into an enormous earth bowl, have a different microclimate and represent the different eco climates in the Peruvian Andean. The Incas researched the type of corn produced on each terrace and how the climate and altitude affected them . Therefore, It is called The Inca Agricultural Research Center.

6. Sacsayhuaman

tourist attractions in peru sacsayhuaman

The Inca-walled fortress is located in the north of Cusco. The Incas used Sacsayhuaman as an exclusive neighborhood for the high elite, a ceremonial center dedicated to the Thunderbolt god, and as a military observatory (Due to its strategic location on the top of the mountain of the same name). The Inca goldsmiths cut with extraordinary precision big stone blocks and fitted them to perfection in enormous walls that, if you see from up, resemble bolts of lightning. Today, visitors can still see its structural bases and the magnificent Inca walls.

7. Humantay Lake

The jewel of Mollepata (the town that hosted the lake) is located on the slopes of Humantay mountain, very close to Salkantay snow, northwest of Cusco. Its crystalline waters and the challenge that represents the hiking to reach it made up a complete experience of adventure and freedom for a visitor who wants to do new activities in Cusco. A travel Agency always will be the best option to visit it.

8. Rainbow Mountain

A variety of colors over wavy mountains that go throughout flatlands with an altitude of over 5,200 meters above sea level makes Rainbow Mountain the best tourist attraction in Peru . The zone is located southeast of Cusco and there are two ways to reach it, Pitumarca or Cusipata access ways. Both will show you beautiful landscapes of snow, mountains, and glorious sunshine. Of course, we recommend visiting it in the dry season (from March to November) for those who love trekking challenges.

9. Choquequirao

Choquequirao Archaeological Park is another of the best tourist attractions in Peru and represents the new jewel of tourism in Peru . This fascinating Inca citadel is located between the flanks of the snowy Salkantay and the Apurimac Canyon. It is believed that these wonderful ruins were one of the last refuges of the Incas. Therefore, many scholars consider Choquequirao as the sister city of Machu Picchu. Even, it was built in the same style as Machu Picchu. To visit this astounding place, it is necessary to undertake a hike of up to 4 days, the reward of which is indescribable. Being able to visit this site is one of the best things to do in Peru.

10. Lake Titicaca

Among the list of charms of Peru, Lake Titicaca occupies an important place. It is considered the highest navigable lake in the world and one of the largest freshwater lakes in all of South America. With 12500 feet of altitude and 8710 square kilometers of extension . This incredible lake is the natural border between Peru’s southeast and Bolivia’s northwest, and they share some incredible vacation spots. This destination is one of the best to enjoy Peru with a baby. You can practice boat tours, handicraft fishing, swimming, diving, kayaking, and even Paddle surfing!

11. Uros Islands

The Uros people made these islands centuries ago to escape the mainland and the warring tribes . Did you know that the islands are made entirely of reeds and that they are replenished every six months? That’s right, from their boats, houses, and even schools they are made up entirely of reeds. This cane so essential for the life of the Uros grows in the surroundings of the islands . Therefore, in Peruvian Andes , one of the best experiences among the wonders of Peru is to become part of experiential tourism and live a day in the life of the Uros. If you are looking to explore Peru, you cannot miss this enchanting and magical destination.

12. Sillustani Chullpas

The Colca culture built this Pre-Inca cemetery complex. An ancient human settlement that occupied the Peruvian Altiplano (Peruvian southeast. at the edge of Umayo Lake) around 600 years BC. They buried its most representative authorities in Chullpas or funeral booths. These were types of cylinders of carved stones. In which they situated mummies (Because they mummified their deceased) with all their belongings to be accompanied in the afterlife. The attractions in Peru have dead, traditions, and nature in one place, the Sillustani Chullpas are samples.

13. The White City of Arequipa

Arequipa is the second most populous city and is an unmissable destination for those seeking to know the essence of Peru. The “White City” is another appellative of the city due to the white volcanic stone called Sillar that forms the beautiful architecture of its Historic Center. It is located at a height of about 2325 meters above sea level, within the Andes mountain range . This beautiful city is one of the must-see places in Peru and where you can enjoy many activities. You can visit beautiful cathedrals, museums, craft fairs, to the distinguished San Camilo market . You cannot miss this unique and beautiful city that forms part of the whole tourist attractions in Peru.

14. Colca Canyon

Among the best charms of Peru, we have the extensive, green, and fascinating Colca Valley. This incredible natural area is an unmissable point to visit. But the valley is not the only natural attraction, since this place is home to the majestic and imposing Colca Canyon. The Canyon is one of the most famous and deepest places in Peru . Even, This is deeper than the grand canyon. Without mentioning that it is the fourth-deepest canyon in the world with more than 3200 meters deep and 6,580 square meters. Therefore, there is so much to enjoy in this tourist attraction in Peru, from walks, viewpoints, luxury hotels, charming local towns, and even natural hot springs. You can even observe the Andean Condor in flight as its principal attraction . Of course, realizing the Peruvian weather before visiting it, will be important.

15. Santa Catalina Monastery

Behind ancient Sillar walls, it is hidden colorful passageways, cozy little squares, and ornamental fonts of a monastery that was founded in 1580. Its purpose was to host the daughters of the city’s most distinguished families. The parents paid an expensive dowry for the admission of his daughters into the monastery. Of course, having a woman in the monastery was a sign of prestige for the family. Unfortunately, the monastery closed in 1970 and, since this year, opened to those who want to take a walk through its rooms and charming passageways. Undoubtedly, this is the best local religious wonder among all attractions in Peru.

16. The Nazca Lines

No list of attractions in Peru would be complete without mentioning the mysterious Nazca lines. These are a group of ancient geoglyphs and a mysterious culture drew them in the middle of the desert many years ago . They are located in the Nazca Valley, near the Pacific Coast. Historians claim that the inhabitants of the Nazca Culture created more than 370 geoglyphs between 200 AD. and 700 A.D . The best way to appreciate them is through an airplane flight . Learn about the different theories and legends that surround this mystical and mysterious site. Note that you must take a flight to get one of the best views.

17. Huacachina Oasis

Huacachina is an oasis situated in the middle of the desert. Wavy dunes, palms, and crystalline water that it’s born from the subsoil invite the visitor to take a rest in one of its hotels, resorts, and restaurants located around the oasis. As you can see, among the attractions in Peru, this is the only one that includes an oasis in the middle of a desert . Undoubtedly, a recommended stop for those who want to enjoy Ica. Also, a dune buggy ride or surfing by its wavy dunes can be the best option to spend an afternoon around there!

18. Paracas National Reserve

Among your things to do in Peru , the Paracas National Reserve cannot be missing. This treasure is located in the south of Lima, in Ica political department. The Marine protected area covers around 3350 square kilometers . Moreover, it’s 65% of its territory belongs to the sea. And the other 35% is made up of islands and riversides .

Paracas National Reserve is considered one of the richest and most rare ecosystems in the world. This is no small achievement because Paracas hosted more than 200 species of birds, 16 different types of mammals, 10 types of reptiles, and 193 species of fish. The Paracas National Park is the best marine representative of tourist attractions in Peru. It is an ideal place to enjoy different beaches, adventure activities, and observe wildlife.

19. Ballestas Islands

The Ballestas Islands are a group of rock formations where you can see abundant wildlife. These islets of rocks are in front of Paracas Bay, 230 kilometers south of Lima. Seal diving, sea lion watching, and even whale watching can be developed during your visit here! Also, the Ballestas hosts the famous Humboldt penguin, the only one who prefers the sand and rocks to the snow! In addition, the guano birds, such as the Guanay, the booby, the tendril, and the pelican abound in the area. For all these reasons, the visit to the Ballestas islands should be the only one in which you are in direct contact with marine wildlife, without stained glass. Simply wonderful!

20. Lima city

On any trip to Peru, you will arrive in the capital of Peru, Lima. The Peruvian capital is where the government palace is located and all international flights usually land . Lima is located on the coast of Peru and has many interesting attractions that you must explore. In the historic center of the city is where the government buildings are located. And every day at noon there is a changing of the guard at the Presidential Palace .

Also located in the center of the city is the church of San Francisco . This is one of the most important religious buildings in the center. The church houses the oldest cemetery in South America. And you can see the bones on display in the church’s catacombs. The church also has a library that houses a collection of Spanish chronicles on display.

Make sure you don’t miss the beachside suburbs in Lima, like Miraflores or Barranco, home to fashion and a cool art scene. These suburbs have some of the best restaurants in Peru. And when we talk about the cuisine of Lima, it is something that is really worth trying. Make sure you visit Lima during the summer in Peru, as you will have the opportunity to enjoy the beaches like other charming places.

21. Ancash and the White Mountain Range

Ancash is a Peruvian political department located in the north of Lima. Its capital city receives the name of Huaraz. Along with Cusco, this city can be the best example of a Peruvian Andean city. With its cold and dry weather, its location of 3000 meters above sea level, and its picturesque alleys . Jirón Jose Olaya stands out for its regional food market and made up one of the tourist attractions in Peru for gastronomy in the Andean.

Close to Huaraz, the White Mountain Range stands like chains of mountains and snows with 16 peaks of more than 6000 meters in height. The Huascaran is its highest snowfall with an altitude of 6757 meters above sea level . Therefore it represents the highest mountain in Peru.

Of course, a good deal of snow experiences like climbing, hiking, and mountain biking can be enjoyed on its slope . But wait a moment, always is important to take a look at the best time to visit Peru . And pay attention to the White Mountain Range climate, too. However, you will nothing have to worry about it because we have indispensable advice, the dry season, between March to November. Remember it!

The Kuelap Fortress could be described as one of the most amazing attractions in Peru. This pre-Inca city is surrounded by an extensive wall made of stone blocks. It is believed that it was built by the Chachapoyas culture around 1000 to 1400 A.C . to later be occupied by the Incas themselves. It is not usually very visited by tourists as it is far from the common routes. Indeed, it is located over rainforest mountains north of Peru. To reach the fortress, you can make an unforgettable trek route. Or take a cable car that ensures an unparalleled view of the northern Peruvian jungle. For all these reasons, it is one of the places in Peru that is worth visiting. If you plan to solo travel in Peru, this magical fortress will take your breath away.

23. Gocta Waterfall

tourist attractions in peru gocta waterfalls

The Gocta waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation in the middle of the Amazon and very close to the Kuelap fortress. This 771-meter-high waterfall is considered the third-highest waterfall in Peru and the fifteenth-highest in the world. It was discovered relatively recently, making it a novel and mysterious natural wonder. The footpath to reach these wonderful waterfalls is another unforgettable experience. Undoubtedly, a tourist attraction in Peru that is worth knowing.

24. Chan Chan

The ancient city of Chan Chan means a look at the past. The largest mud city in the world was built by the Mochica culture (A pre-Inca culture) around 850 AD . The Peru tourist map situates in Chan Chan on the northwest side of Trujillo’s modern city, at Lima north. More than 60,000 people came to live between its big mud walls until the conquest by the Inca Culture in 1470 AD . Natural accidents like floods, high tides, and extreme rains had to erode its walls. Today, some bases and foundations of its structures can be viewed .

25. Mancora beach

If you are traveling with friends, then you cannot miss this destination for anything in the world. Máncora is where to go for a relaxing vacation and the main point for young people and lovers . This beautiful destination is full of fun, tourism, beautiful landscapes, crystal clear waters, and unparalleled beaches .

Máncora is known for its high-quality waves. All surfers long for the arrival of summer to ride them and enjoy a very active nightlife . In case you don’t know how to surf, they offer courses all the time at a very comfortable price. For lovers or newlyweds, there is the beautiful option of walking to Las Pocitas. This is a slightly more exclusive area for those eager to enjoy a sunset. Therefore, Mancora is the best beach representative inside tourist attractions in Peru.

Regarding surfing, some believe Peru has some of the best surfing beaches in the world. Mancora with surfing opportunities all year, with tubular, high peak, and bell waves along most of the coast is a real paradise for surfers. Also, these other beaches in Peru are considered to be the best for catching waves Cabo Blanco, Lobito’s, Chicama (this beach has the longest wave in the world), Huanchaco, Pacasmayo, and Los Organos, with various types of accommodation available to pass your surfing holiday.

26. Manu National Park

tourist attractions in peru manu national park

The Manu National Park is located in the eyebrow jungle of Cusco and is the best example of biodiversity in Peru . The National Park is the most amazing of all attractions in Peru. Due to great biodiversity with more than 200 species of mammals . Without mentioning 1005 species of bird ( A perfect place to do bird watching ). Also , more than 4000 species of plants were identified . The park is divided into three sectors. The first one is the National Park which is restricted to visitors and tourists. On the other hand, the native tribes and park guards are allowed here. The second one is the Reserve Zone , in which Travel Agency groups and some authorized researchers can take a walk through its rainforests zones. The last one is the Cultural zone which allows any kind of visitor.

27. Tambopata National Reserve

The Tambopata National Reserve is one of the most amazing areas of attractions in Peru. Inside a great variety of plants, wildlife, and a great number of unique ecosystems in Peru are conserved. Like more than 648 species of birds, 108 mammal species, among others . Being able to get to visit this reserve is one of the best things to do in Peru. It is a perfect place to connect with nature and observe wildlife. The Reserve is also an excellent opportunity to experience ecotourism in Peru.

28. Pacaya Samiria National Reserve

The national reserve is located in the Amazon in Peru . Specifically, it is in the Loreto department, in the northeastern. Its great rainforest zones and quiet rivers that cross throughout hectares of flora and fauna define Pacaya Samiria. Also, luxury cruises, swimming with pink dolphins, or enjoying the amazing Peruvian jungle food in Iquitos are the most important characteristic of the Pacaya Samiria National reserve

“THE BEST AND MOST BEAUTIFUL THINGS IN THE WORLD CANNOT BE SEEN OR EVEN TOUCHED, THEY MUST BE FELT WITH THE HEART”

We hope together with the experts of Machu Travel Peru to have been of great help. If you are looking to explore tourist attractions in Peru , it is a good idea for you to know these incredible destinations. Of course, this is not all that the magical Andean country has to offer, but they are some of its most interesting destinations. If you want to know more about our tours throughout Peru, you can meet our qualified advisers.

Peru has so much to offer, it can be hard to know where to start. With many years of experience in the tourism sector, Machu Travel Peru is happy to help with anything regarding your trip to Machu Picchu and any tours around it . Make your Machu Picchu experience an unforgettable one!

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Tourist Places of Peru. The 35 Best Destinations to Visit

Meet the 35 best destinations and tourist places to visit in peru.

The variety of tourist spots that Peru offers to visit is immense. Therefore, in this article we are going to mention the most outstanding tourist places of Peru so you can take note and include them on your next trip.

The charms that this country has are very diverse. From archaeological sites to colonial constructions. Variety of flora and fauna and the natural beauty of its different environments.

We can affirm that it is a country that has it all. And here, we will tell you about the 35 best tourist sites in Peru .

What should you know about Peru?

Peru is a coastal country, bordered by the Pacific Ocean. It has a vast territory enriched by multiple ecosystems and great biodiversity.

Its landscapes are extremely varied. Among its natural environments we find valleys, the Andes mountain range, plateaus, deserts and part of the Amazon jungle.

Currently, Peru is one of the most visited countries in Latin America, tourism is one of its strengths, since in addition to having fabulous natural landscapes, it is a country extremely rich in history.

Throughout time, and for thousands of years, Peru had the presence of multiple cultures and civilizations living on their lands. And today, that evidence is one of the greatest attractions that you can enjoy visiting this beautiful country.

In addition, it is a country known worldwide for its gastronomy and its excellent «fusion cuisine».

The best places and tourist destinations to visit in Peru

Here we will list the tourist destinations in Peru that, undoubtedly, we recommend visiting so that your trip does not lack anything:

1- Machu Picchu:

Of course, if we talk about places to visit in Peru , we must mention the ancient Inca city recognized as one of the 7 Wonders of the World. These archaeological remains are located between the mountains and have an important historical value. It is a sacred site full of temples and enclosures and features amazing architecture.

In order to get to know this incredible place, which is located near the city of Cusco, Guru Explorers offers several Tours to Machu Picchu that will take you to explore the best of these amazing Inca ruins.

2- Nazca Lines:

Undoubtedly, this tourist attraction is one of the most popular and most enigmatic places to visit in Peru.

These are mysterious lines marked on the desert, which form a set of geoglyphs and some measure up to 300 meters in length.

To correctly observe these curious representations of animals and plants, which are 120 kilometers away from the city of Ica, you have to fly over them.

3- Ollantaytambo:

61 kilometers away from Cusco, we find another of the tourist places in Peru that we cannot miss.

This archaeological site has impressive buildings, agricultural and religious sectors. And it is believed that perhaps, it may also have been used as a fortress.

4- Huacachina Oasis:

Another tourist site in Peru recommended to visit is the Huacachina oasis. Here you will find a green lagoon surrounded by palm trees and sand dunes.

This oasis in the middle of the desert is located 52 kilometers away from the city of Ica, and it is one of the most striking places you will find in the country.

5- Ballestas Islands:

Leaving by boat from the coast of Paracas, we can reach another of the incredible places to visit in Peru.

On these small islands, full of curious rock formations, you will find different species of marine fauna.

6- Colca Canyon:

Undoubtedly, one of the tourist destinations in Peru that you should visit is the Colca Canyon. This amazing place is located 200 kilometers away from Arequipa and is a natural wonder highly acclaimed by tourism.

Here you will be able to enjoy the spectacular landscape of mountains and snow-capped peaks and you will also be able to admire the impressive flight of the Andean condor, the largest bird in the world.

7- Humantay Lake:

129 kilometers away from Cusco, we find another of the must-see tourist places in Peru. This beautiful lake of green and turquoise tones is the ideal place for lovers of trekking and adventure.

In order to access it and be dazzled by the landscape, at Guru Explorers we have different Tours to the Humantay Lake that will take you on an incredible journey through the mountains, until you reach this impressive lake.

8- Lake Titicaca:

Another renowned tourist site in Peru is Lake Titicaca. Visiting this high altitude lake can be very exciting. Here you can enjoy an incredible landscape and you will also have the opportunity to visit the Floating Islands of the Uros, Taquile and Amantani.

To tour these islands, you can experience experiential tourism and thus come into contact with the communities that live there.

9- Cathedral of Cusco:

Another obligatory stop if we visit Peru is, the Basilica Cathedral of the Virgin of the Assumption of Cusco. This architectural monument is the most important religious temple in the city and both, its facade and its interior are full of art. It is an old construction that combines different styles such as Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance.

10- Arequipa Main Square:

Considered by many as the most beautiful square in the country, it is also another of the important places to visit in Peru.

It is located in the historic center of Arequipa and around it you can appreciate several colonial buildings that stand out for their picturesque architecture.

11- Basilica and Convent of San Francisco:

This monumental church is located in the historic center of Lima. It was built in the 17th century. It is a huge and beautiful building where you can see the catacombs, the convent, the library, and inside you can see interesting works of art belonging to the Cusqueña School.

12- Ayacucho:

560 kilometers away from Lima, is Ayacucho, one of the cities that we recommend visiting on your way through Peru.

It is an extremely interesting colonial city, full of cultural attributes and architectural beauty.

In addition, it is a city recognized for its religious character, since it has more than 30 churches and here every year, during Holy Week, the most important celebration in the country is held.

13- Rainbow Mountain:

This tourist spot located more than 100 kilometers away from Cusco, has become one of the most visited places in Peru. This is surely due to its striking natural beauty. The different shades that this mountain presents create an incomparable landscape.

To experience the captivating adventure of getting to know this site through an exciting walk, Guru Explorers offers you different Tours to the Rainbow Mountain , where you can also get to know the typical fauna of the area.

14- Mancora:

Another of the tourist destinations in Peru is Mancora, a small fishing city located in the north of the country. It is characterized by having beaches with good waves, which are ideal for diving and surfing.

The beaches here are very popular, since the weather in Mancora is warm almost all year round.

It is also an ideal place to taste typical coastal dishes, such as ceviche.

This city, located in a valley 300 kilometers away from Lima, is another of the recommended cities to visit in Peru.

It is recognized for being «the cradle of Pisco», the most emblematic drink in the country. And due to its location, it presents propitious lands to develop an important agricultural work.

Among the places that can be visited touring this city, we can highlight the Cathedral, the Plaza de Armas and varied colonial houses that present a beautiful architecture.

16- Choquequirao:

Another of the tourist places in Peru that we also recommend visiting is the Choquequirao archaeological complex. These impressive Inca ruins are located less than 200 kilometers away from Cusco and to access this site a 4-day trekking tour through the mountains is required. In fact, the path that is traveled is considered one of the best trekking routes in the world.

17- Tambopata National Reserve:

Another of the most important attractions to visit in Peru and which is part of the Amazon jungle, is the Tambopata National Reserve.

This particular site covers an area of 300 hectares and is an ideal place to get in touch with nature and be dazzled by the variety of wild and exotic flora and fauna that it presents.

In order to get to know this captivating place in depth, from Guru Explorers we have different Tours to Tambopata that will take you to live the adventure of diving into the jungle.

18- Sacsayhuaman:

2 kilometers away from Cusco is one of the most important archaeological complexes that you have to visit.

In this place you will enjoy both nature and history. These remains were built with huge stone blocks, and it is believed that this space was used as a religious temple or perhaps also as a military fortress.

19- Maras Salt Mines:

51 kilometers away from Cusco, within the Sacred Valley, we find another of the tourist destinations in Peru that you cannot miss.

More than 3,000 natural salt pools make up the Maras Salt Mines and the curious thing is that they are still active since ancient times.

In order to have the pleasure of visiting this wonderful place, at Guru Explorers we have the Maras Moray Tour , which will take you on a trip to this site, where you will be able to contemplate different landscapes and we make sure you will obtain unbeatable photographs.

20- Iquitos:

Iquitos is another of the jungle places to visit in Peru.

The city is located in the northeast of the country, on the left bank of the Amazon River and in addition to being a large city with various points of interest, it stands out for its proximity to the jungle.

Many tours that depart from this city, will take you through the jungle, get in touch with native communities and discover part of the wonderful nature of this site, such as its various species of birds, and its exotic flora and fauna.

21- Kuélap:

In the Amazon region, on top of a hill, we find a pre-Inca archaeological center that is well worth visiting.

These remains dating from the 11th century, belonged to the Chachapoyas culture, and it is a citadel protected by a great wall built with blocks of stones.

These ruins consist of buildings on different levels, with circular shapes that functioned as ceremonial and administrative precincts, and as homes.

30 kilometers away from Cusco, there is another renowned tourist site in Peru. In this place you can take a tour of the town, the craft market and the ruins.

The archaeological complex of Pisac is recognized as one of the most important Inca cemeteries.

23- Miraflores Malecon:

In the Peruvian capital, one of the places you cannot miss is the Malecon located in the Miraflores district.

It is an unforgettable promenade, with wonderful views, specially at sunset. This is also the place chosen by many people to practice extreme sports, such as surfing or paragliding. Also here you can enjoy the green spaces and take a long walk.

24- Santa Catalina Convent:

The Santa Catalina Convent is located in the city of Arequipa, and is another important tourist site in Peru.

It is an extensive colonial construction from the 16th century that includes several buildings. Cloistered nuns used to live here, and while walking through its interior you will be able to learn about their peculiar lifestyle, in addition to appreciate the architectural beauty of this ancient place.

25- Huaca Pucllana:

The Huaca Pucllana ruins are located in the capital of Peru and they used to be a ceremonial site for the Lima culture. Later, when the Wari culture conquered the Lima culture, this site became a cemetery, and in any case, it continued to be considered a sacred place.

26- San Blas Neighborhood:

In the city of Cusco, we find one of the most picturesque neighborhoods to visit in Peru. The San Blas neighborhood is an extremely charming place, full of history and architecture of incomparable beauty. Being able to explore it on foot is really interesting. Also from here, you can see beautiful views of the city.

27- Chinchero Market:

The town of Chinchero is located 40 minutes away from Cusco, and here, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, you will have the opportunity to visit one of the most colorful markets in Peru.

Characterized by its textile art, this market is one of the most visited. The main product sold here is artisan fabrics.

28- Revash Mausoleums:

Another of the important tourist spots in Peru are these impressive constructions that are located on a ravine at 2,800 meters high. To reach these ruins, a walk of one and a half hour is required.

This site used to be used as a burial site, mainly housing mummies from the high society of the Chachapoyas culture.

25 kilometers away from Cusco is, definitely, one of the most interesting archaeological complexes to visit in Peru.

These Inca ruins were dedicated to worshiping water and since their conduits are still working today, they are really considered a great work of hydraulic engineering.

30- Trujillo:

Trujillo is a pretty colonial city located on the north coast of Peru. It is known for hosting the Festival de la Marinera, the country’s traditional dance.

The historic center of the city has several monuments to visit, and is characterized by presenting a typical architecture of the virreinal time, both in the religious temples and in the mansions.

The ruins of Moray, another of the important tourist attractions to visit in Peru, are located almost 50 kilometers away from Cusco.

The interesting thing about this archaeological center is that the Incas used it as an agricultural laboratory to experiment with the possibility of planting crops belonging to different regions.

32- Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum:

This museum is one of the most important in Peru and is located in the city of Lambayeque.

The gold, silver and ceramic pieces that can be seen here are part of the great collection of objects found in the tomb of the Lord of Sipan, who used to be a ruler of the ancient Mochica culture.

33- The Mangroves of Tumbes:

In the north of Peru, almost to the limit with Ecuador, is the protected area named; Mangroves of Tumbes National Sanctuary.

The greatest attraction of this area is nature itself. Here abounds a particular flora and this site is home of several species of animals and birds. Taking a canoe or kayak ride through the different canals is one of the most engaging tourist activities you can do in Peru.

34- Punta Sal:

Another of the tourist places in Peru that we recommend visiting is this beautiful and extensive beach, located 80 kilometers away from Tumbes.

It is a beach with warm water and calm waves, and where the sun shines almost every day of the year. It is a very suitable place to visit with the family. And this site attracts many tourists looking to practice sport fishing.

35- Manu National Park:

One of the most amazing places to visit in Peru, is this great natural reserve, which has an incomparable diversity of flora and fauna.

This sector of the Amazon jungle is the ideal tour for the most adventurous tourists looking for a real connection with nature. When you enter this protected area, you will be able to see innumerable types of plants, birds and animals, and you will be able to go hiking through the virgin jungle.

Conclusions

You can see that the list is extensive, and we could continue. But this summary concentrates the best of Peru.

If you have the opportunity, do not hesitate to visit this wonderful country, we assure you that it will be a unique experience.

And if you have doubts, remember that guru Explorers offers a wide variety of Tours in Peru , so you can enjoy your trip to the fullest.

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The 8 highest tourist attractions in Peru

Peru is a country in South America whose territory is crossed by an immense strip of the Andes Mountains. This spectacular geography allows you to visit important tourist attractions such as Machu Picchu, considered one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World. However, Peru has many tourist attractions with high mountains and even snow-capped mountains. Get to know the most popular and highest tourist attractions in the Peruvian territory.

The 7 Colors Mountain of Cusco (5,200 meters above sea level)

Lagoon 69 in ancash (4,600 meters above sea level), lake titicaca in puno (3,812 meters above sea level), the humantay lagoon in cusco (4,200 meters above sea level), the marcahuasi stone forest in lima (4 thousand meters above sea level), the colca canyon in arequipa (3,800 meters above sea level), the kuelap fortress (3 thousand meters above sea level), the snowy pastoruri (5 thousand meters above sea level).

Machu Picchu, in the Andes Mountains of Peru – Machu Picchu is located in the district of Aguas Calientes, province of Urubamba in the Cusco region, at an altitude of 2,430 meters above sea level. Its geography is in the high mountainous jungle, a landscape full of vegetation. It is considered the best tourist attraction in Peru and one of the best in the world. One of its great attractions is its Andean landscape, with mountains everywhere. It is one of the most photographed spaces on the planet.

The 7 Colors Mountain of Cusco (5,200 meters above sea level)

Vinicunca is one of the best tourist attractions in Cusco. Due to its mountain slopes of varied colors, it is called in different ways, such as: the Rainbow Mountain or the Mountain of 7 Colors. It is located approximately 100 kilometers from Cusco, in a high mountain geography at 5,200 meters above sea level. It is one of the most photographed landscapes in Cusco and Peru.

Vinicunca can be visited with an all-inclusive tour or on your own. In any case, a challenging walk of 3 kilometers on average must be done. The route is difficult due to the high Andean geography where it is difficult to assimilate the scarce oxygen. Optionally, tourists can hire a horse for this route. After Machu Picchu, Vinicunca is the most visited tourist destination in Cusco.

Location : 100 kilometers southeast of the city of Cusco, in the province of Canchis, department of Cusco.
Visit price : The 1-day tour to the 7 Colors Mountain costs between 50 to 100 soles, depending on the tourism agency you choose.

Lagoon 69 in Ancash (4,600 meters above sea level)

Lagoon 69 is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the Huascarán National Park in the Áncash region. It is located at an altitude of 4,600 meters above sea level. The lagoon offers intense blue waters that are perfect for taking photographs of beautiful landscapes. To get there you must take a 3-hour walk through high mountains where a characteristic local flora and fauna stands out.

The lagoon owes its name to the large number of lagoons, glaciers and mountains in the Cordillera Blanca. There, 200 kilometers of territory have been registered with a total of 722 glaciers and 400 lagoons. Lagoon 69 is under the Chacraraju mountain. In addition, the place is surrounded by snow-capped mountains such as Pisco, Huandoy, Chopicalqui and the famous Huascarán. These snow-capped mountains are higher, but they are not touristy. You can only get there with professional mountaineering expeditions.

Location : In the Huascarán National Park in the Áncash region (about 92 kilometers from the city of Huaraz).
Visit price : The entrance to the Huascarán National Park is 30 soles for foreigners and 11 soles for Peruvians. The 1-day tour costs between 60 and 90 soles, depending on the tourism agency you choose.

Lake Titicaca in Puno (3,812 meters above sea level)

Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. It is located in the Puno region in southern Peru (the lake is shared with Bolivia). It covers a total area of 8,372 square kilometers where you can find islands with Quechua and Aymara inhabitants, and even floating islands made by their own inhabitants hundreds of years ago. Its landscapes are one of the most beautiful in Peru and one of those that attracts the most tourists.

Although the vast expanse of the lagoon can vary, on average it is located 3,812 meters above sea level. Its main tourist attractions are: the floating island of Uros, Taquile island, Amantani island and Suasi island. There, in addition, there is an interesting diversity of flora and fauna. In 1978 to protect their customs, flora and fauna, the Titicaca National Reserve was created. There are even 5-star hotels on its islands.

Location : In the highland region of the department of Puno at a distance of 1,293 kilometers by road from the city of Lima (capital of Peru).
Visit price : Tours to the main islands of Lake Titicaca cost 50 to 100 soles, depending on the tourism agency you choose.

The Humantay lagoon in Cusco (4,200 meters above sea level)

The Humantay lagoon is one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Cusco region in southern Peru. Humantay owes its name to the tall snow-capped mountain that crowns the lagoon. In addition, the famous Salkantay snow-capped mountain is very close. The lagoon is famous for its turquoise waters that offer beautiful scenery. It is located 4,200 meters above sea level. The visit can be done with a tour or on your own.

The Humantay lagoon is at the top of a mountain where it can only be reached by a 3-kilometer walk uphill (approximately 2-hour route). It is believed that the lagoon was considered sacred to the Incas. Even ceremonies worshiping the mountains were held there. Today it is traveled mainly by tourists who carry out the 5-day Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu.

Location : 128 kilometers by road from the city of Cusco, in the province of Anta in Cusco.
Visit price : The entrance to the Humantay lagoon costs 10 soles for foreigners and 5 soles for Peruvians. The 1-day tour costs between 50 to 100 soles depending on the tourism agency you hire.

The Marcahuasi stone forest in Lima (4 thousand meters above sea level)

Lima, in addition to a vast coastal strip, has an important mountain chain with high altitude tourist attractions. One of these is Marcahuasi, a stone forest located four thousand meters above sea level. This wonderful natural landscape is 90 kilometers from the city of Lima. It is famous for its mountain landscape where many visitors like to camp under the stars, a campfire and the inclement cold.

In Marcahuasi, as a result of erosion for thousands of years, rocks have been formed with different zoomorphic and human figures. Granite figures stand out such as the Monument to Humanity (several human faces in one). In addition, its lagoons, flora, wildlife and even remains of pre-Hispanic cultures stand out. Many visitors like to camp there during the July 28 holiday (Independence Day of Peru).

Location : In the district of San Pedro de Casta in the province of Huarochirí, in the department of Lima (about 90 kilometers by road from the city center).
Visit price : General admission costs 10 soles per person. There are also 2-day tours for 150 soles on average (varies depending on the tourism agency you choose).

The Colca Canyon in Arequipa (3,800 meters above sea level)

The Colca Canyon is the second most visited tourist attraction in Peru after the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. In addition, it is considered one of the deepest canyons on the planet, at 4,160 meters. In addition to its spectacular geography, Colca is famous for its ‘Cruz del Cóndor’ viewpoint. There you can see the flight of Andean condors every morning, the second largest flying bird in the world.

The Colca Canyon is located in the valley of the same name. It belongs to the district of Chivay in the province of Caylloma, Arequipa region. It covers different latitudes and landscapes that generate great Andean biodiversity. To get there you can take an interesting hiking route of 2 days or more. Due to the influx of tourism, in its towns (such as Chivay and Cabanaconde) there are hotels and restaurants of excellent quality.

Location : In the district of Chivay, province of Caylloma and department of Arequipa. The trip from the city of Arequipa is 166 kilometers by road.
Visit price : The entrance costs 70 soles for foreigners and 40 soles for Peruvians. 1-day tours cost between 60 to 120 soles, depending on the tourism agency you choose.

The Kuelap fortress (3 thousand meters above sea level)

Kuelap, although not located at a very high altitude, is one of the best tourist attractions in the Amazon region in the high jungle of Peru. Kuelap was a citadel – refuge belonging to the Chachapoyas culture (800 A.D. – 1470 A.D.). It has stone constructions in a difficult geography, in the high jungle of the Amazon region. It is 3 thousand meters above sea level. To access there it is necessary to ascend by cable car through wonderful landscapes. From the top you have amazing views and buildings with a lot of history.

The Kuelap fortress, as its name indicates, had high stone walls necessary for protection in case of invasions. In addition, it has squares, enclosures, streets and paths. And everything is in an almost inaccessible geography. Today Kuelap is one of the best tourist attractions in the eastern Andes of Peru. To get there you have to take a final walk of 30 minutes on average.

Location : Kuelap belongs to the Tingo district, in the province of Luya, in the department of Amazonas. From the city of Chachapoyas you must travel 67 kilometers (the last section by cable car).
Visit price : The entrance to Kuelap costs 20 soles. The 1-day tour costs between 80 and 120 soles, depending on the tourism agency you choose.

The snowy Pastoruri (5 thousand meters above sea level)

The Pastoruri snow-capped mountain is in the Huascarán National Park, a vast area full of glaciers, lagoons and exuberant flora and fauna. In this area, an immense snow-capped mountain stands out, at the foot of which visitors can reach after an arduous walk. This is Pastoruri, whose summit is located 5,240 meters above sea level. Its snow peak is appreciated. On its northern slope there is a glacier. All this makes it a highly visited tourist attraction.

The walk to the foot of Pastoruri is 3 kilometers of ascent along paths surrounded by beautiful landscapes. In the local flora, the Raimondi puya stands out, a species that can reach ten meters in height. Unfortunately, due to climate change, the density of the snow and the glacier is gradually being lost. The Pastoruri can be visited on your own or with a tour departing from the city of Huaraz.

Location : In the Cordillera Blanca (Huascarán National Park). It belongs to the district of Aquia, province of Bolognesi in the department of Ancash. From the city of Huaraz, approximately 108 kilometers by road and on foot.

By Machupicchu Terra – Last updated, December 20, 2023

More guides that can help you

The 7 most beautiful lagoons in peru.

Peru has a diverse geography where incredible natural landscapes can be appreciated. In addition to rivers, mountains, beaches, jungles and deserts; In the Andean country you can see beautiful lagoons. These are found in different regions, such as the coast, the mountains and even the jungle. Every day visitors come there to appreciate its incredible nature and landscape. Find out which are the seven most beautiful in Peru!

Price of trains to Machu Picchu

The three is the main means of transportation to get to Machu Picchu. The trip begins in the city of Cusco, in the heart of the Andes Mountains in Peru. Through a bus trip you must arrive at one of the train stations (the most used is Ollantaytambo). There you board the train that, in 1 hour 30 minutes, will transfer you to the town of Aguas Calientes. This famous town is only 10 kilometers from Machu Picchu. There are different types of train services. Know their prices and main characteristics.

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17 Top Rated Destinations to Make Sure to Visit in Your Lifetime

Posted: February 18, 2024 | Last updated: February 18, 2024

<p><span>Life is a journey filled with stories of adventure, culture, and the allure of the unknown. Among these narratives are destinations that call out promising experiences that enrich the soul and broaden the mind. These places, whether iconic landmarks or hidden gems form the ultimate travel bucket list—adventures to be had and memories to be made. Setting out on these journeys is about more than just ticking items off a list; it’s about diving into the unknown, relishing the journey’s beauty, and allowing our planet’s diverse landscapes and cultures to transform us. Let’s journey together to explore the places where history comes alive, nature amazes, and cultures intertwine, creating unforgettable experiences.</span></p>

Life is a journey filled with stories of adventure, culture, and the allure of the unknown. Among these narratives are destinations that call out promising experiences that enrich the soul and broaden the mind. These places, whether iconic landmarks or hidden gems form the ultimate travel bucket list—adventures to be had and memories to be made. Setting out on these journeys is about more than just ticking items off a list; it’s about diving into the unknown, relishing the journey’s beauty, and allowing our planet’s diverse landscapes and cultures to transform us. Let’s journey together to explore the places where history comes alive, nature amazes, and cultures intertwine, creating unforgettable experiences.

<p><span>Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan sanctuary nestled in the Peruvian Andes, is a marvel of engineering and a testament to the Incan empire’s sophistication. This UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by lush mountain forests, offers breathtaking views and a mysterious allure. Its well-preserved ruins, including the Intihuatana stone, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows, provide a glimpse into Incan culture and spirituality, making it an essential pilgrimage for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.</span></p>

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan sanctuary nestled in the Peruvian Andes, is a marvel of engineering and a testament to the Incan empire’s sophistication. This UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by lush mountain forests, offers breathtaking views and a mysterious allure. Its well-preserved ruins, including the Intihuatana stone, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows, provide a glimpse into Incan culture and spirituality, making it an essential pilgrimage for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

<p><span>The Great Barrier Reef, the planet’s largest coral reef system, is a dazzling array of life and color off Australia’s northeast coast. Home to thousands of marine species, including fish, sharks, and corals, it’s a snorkeler’s and diver’s paradise. This natural wonder, visible from space, faces environmental threats, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts. Exploring its underwater splendor offers an unparalleled connection to nature’s intricacy and beauty, reminding us of ecosystems’ vital role in our world.</span></p>

2. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef, the planet’s largest coral reef system, is a dazzling array of life and color off Australia’s northeast coast. Home to thousands of marine species, including fish, sharks, and corals, it’s a snorkeler’s and diver’s paradise. This natural wonder, visible from space, faces environmental threats, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts. Exploring its underwater splendor offers an unparalleled connection to nature’s intricacy and beauty, reminding us of ecosystems’ vital role in our world.

<p><span>Rome</span><span>, the heart of the former Roman Empire, captivates with its blend of ancient ruins and vibrant city life. Its storied streets offer a journey through history, from the imposing Colosseum to the majestic Vatican City. Rome’s rich culinary tradition, iconic architecture, and a treasure trove of art make it a cultural epicenter. Whether it’s exploring historic sites, enjoying a gelato by the Spanish Steps, or tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, Rome promises an unforgettable experience.</span></p>

3. Rome, Italy

Rome , the heart of the former Roman Empire, captivates with its blend of ancient ruins and vibrant city life. Its storied streets offer a journey through history, from the imposing Colosseum to the majestic Vatican City. Rome’s rich culinary tradition, iconic architecture, and a treasure trove of art make it a cultural epicenter. Whether it’s exploring historic sites, enjoying a gelato by the Spanish Steps, or tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, Rome promises an unforgettable experience.

<p><span>The epitome of elegance and culture, Paris stands timeless with its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. The city’s romantic boulevards, world-class museums, and culinary delights <a href="https://www.kindafrugal.com/classic-films-that-continue-to-capture-baby-boomers-hearts/">captivate hearts</a> and palates. Whether wandering through the artistic Montmartre, enjoying a cruise on the Seine, or indulging in a café au lait in a sidewalk café, Paris offers moments of joy and discovery, making it a dream destination for travelers seeking inspiration and romance.</span></p>

4. Paris, France

The epitome of elegance and culture, Paris stands timeless with its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. The city’s romantic boulevards, world-class museums, and culinary delights captivate hearts and palates. Whether wandering through the artistic Montmartre, enjoying a cruise on the Seine, or indulging in a café au lait in a sidewalk café, Paris offers moments of joy and discovery, making it a dream destination for travelers seeking inspiration and romance.

<p><span>The Masai Mara, Kenya’s premier wildlife reserve, is synonymous with the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse its plains in a timeless struggle for survival. This natural spectacle, alongside formidable predators and breathtaking landscapes, offers an unparalleled safari experience. Immersive cultural encounters with the Maasai people add to the richness of visiting the Mara, providing insights into traditional ways of life and conservation efforts and making it a profound journey into the heart of the wild.</span></p>

5. Masai Mara, Kenya

The Masai Mara, Kenya’s premier wildlife reserve, is synonymous with the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse its plains in a timeless struggle for survival. This natural spectacle, alongside formidable predators and breathtaking landscapes, offers an unparalleled safari experience. Immersive cultural encounters with the Maasai people add to the richness of visiting the Mara, providing insights into traditional ways of life and conservation efforts and making it a profound journey into the heart of the wild.

<p><span>Petra, Jordan’s most treasured and visited site, is an archaeological spectacle carved directly into vibrant red, white, and pink sandstone cliffs. Once a thriving trading center and the capital of the Nabataean empire, Petra is fascinating with its sophisticated water system and beautiful facades. The Siq, a narrow gorge leading into the city, culminates in the awe-inspiring view of Al-Khazneh (the Treasury). Exploring Petra offers a unique glimpse into ancient civilization’s ingenuity and artistry. It is a must-visit for history buffs and adventure seekers eager to uncover its long-hidden secrets and marvels.</span></p>

6. Petra, Jordan

Petra, Jordan’s most treasured and visited site, is an archaeological spectacle carved directly into vibrant red, white, and pink sandstone cliffs. Once a thriving trading center and the capital of the Nabataean empire, Petra is fascinating with its sophisticated water system and beautiful facades. The Siq, a narrow gorge leading into the city, culminates in the awe-inspiring view of Al-Khazneh (the Treasury). Exploring Petra offers a unique glimpse into ancient civilization’s ingenuity and artistry. It is a must-visit for history buffs and adventure seekers eager to uncover its long-hidden secrets and marvels.

<p><span>The Grand Canyon</span><span>, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a monumental testament to nature’s power and beauty. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, its vast expanses reveal layered bands of colorful rock that recount Earth’s geological history. Visitors can immerse themselves in its grandeur through hiking, rafting, and helicopter tours, each offering unique perspectives of its breathtaking landscapes. The Canyon’s immense size and intricate landscapes inspire awe and reflection, making it a quintessential destination for those seeking to experience the majesty of the American Southwest’s natural wonders.</span></p>

7. The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon , a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a monumental testament to nature’s power and beauty. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, its vast expanses reveal layered bands of colorful rock that recount Earth’s geological history. Visitors can immerse themselves in its grandeur through hiking, rafting, and helicopter tours, each offering unique perspectives of its breathtaking landscapes. The Canyon’s immense size and intricate landscapes inspire awe and reflection, making it a quintessential destination for those seeking to experience the majesty of the American Southwest’s natural wonders.

<p><span>Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japan, offers a serene experience, especially during cherry blossom season. As the ancient capital, it is home to over a thousand temples, including the golden Kinkaku-ji and the peaceful Kiyomizu-dera. Strolling through its historic districts, one can experience the timeless beauty of tea houses, Zen gardens, and geisha traditions. The city harmoniously blends its rich heritage with the calmness of its natural surroundings, making every visit a journey back in time to the essence of classical Japan, celebrated amidst the fleeting beauty of sakura blossoms.</span></p>

8. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japan, offers a serene experience, especially during cherry blossom season. As the ancient capital, it is home to over a thousand temples, including the golden Kinkaku-ji and the peaceful Kiyomizu-dera. Strolling through its historic districts, one can experience the timeless beauty of tea houses, Zen gardens, and geisha traditions. The city harmoniously blends its rich heritage with the calmness of its natural surroundings, making every visit a journey back in time to the essence of classical Japan, celebrated amidst the fleeting beauty of sakura blossoms.

<p><span>The Great Wall of China, stretching thousands of miles across the country’s northern frontier, is a marvel of military architecture and enduring strength. Built over centuries to protect against invasions, it weaves through mountains and valleys, offering unparalleled scenic views and a tangible connection to China’s historical past. Hiking along the Wall, from well-preserved sections like Mutianyu to wilder parts like Jiankou, offers a physically and spiritually rewarding experience, revealing the vastness and beauty of China’s landscape, along with the resilience and ingenuity of its people.</span></p>

9. Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China, stretching thousands of miles across the country’s northern frontier, is a marvel of military architecture and enduring strength. Built over centuries to protect against invasions, it weaves through mountains and valleys, offering unparalleled scenic views and a tangible connection to China’s historical past. Hiking along the Wall, from well-preserved sections like Mutianyu to wilder parts like Jiankou, offers a physically and spiritually rewarding experience, revealing the vastness and beauty of China’s landscape, along with the resilience and ingenuity of its people.

<p><span>With its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches, Santorini stands as a jewel of the Aegean Sea. This volcanic island enchants visitors with its stunning sunsets, dramatic views, and picturesque villages like Oia and Fira. Its unique landscape results from a massive volcanic eruption, creating the caldera where beautiful beaches and ancient ruins await exploration. Santorini’s charm lies in its beauty and ability to blend romantic vistas with rich history and vibrant local culture, making it a dream destination for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.</span></p>

10. Santorini, Greece

With its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches, Santorini stands as a jewel of the Aegean Sea. This volcanic island enchants visitors with its stunning sunsets, dramatic views, and picturesque villages like Oia and Fira. Its unique landscape results from a massive volcanic eruption, creating the caldera where beautiful beaches and ancient ruins await exploration. Santorini’s charm lies in its beauty and ability to blend romantic vistas with rich history and vibrant local culture, making it a dream destination for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.

<p><span>New Zealand has unparalleled natural beauty and outdoor adventures, offering everything from pristine beaches to majestic mountain ranges. Its diverse landscapes serve as a playground for thrill-seekers and nature lovers, offering bungee jumping, skiing, and hiking activities. The rich Maori culture adds a unique cultural dimension to the visitor experience, with opportunities to engage with local traditions and history. Whether exploring Rotorua’s thermal wonders or Milford Sound’s fjords, New Zealand promises a journey of discovery and excitement in some of the world’s most breathtaking settings.</span></p>

11. New Zealand

New Zealand has unparalleled natural beauty and outdoor adventures, offering everything from pristine beaches to majestic mountain ranges. Its diverse landscapes serve as a playground for thrill-seekers and nature lovers, offering bungee jumping, skiing, and hiking activities. The rich Maori culture adds a unique cultural dimension to the visitor experience, with opportunities to engage with local traditions and history. Whether exploring Rotorua’s thermal wonders or Milford Sound’s fjords, New Zealand promises a journey of discovery and excitement in some of the world’s most breathtaking settings.

<p><span>Next up, we have Finland, which is consistently ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and high-quality healthcare and education systems, it’s easy to see why.</span></p><p><span>Finland is also known for its unique cultural traditions, such as sauna baths and reindeer sleigh rides. Its capital city, Helsinki, offers a perfect blend of modernity and nature, with its beautiful harbors and green parks.</span></p><p><span>Retirees in Finland can enjoy a comfortable and safe lifestyle with a strong sense of community and social equality. Who wouldn’t want to witness the magical Northern Lights in their retirement years?</span></p>

12. Aurora Borealis

The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, presents a celestial ballet of light dancing across the night sky with green, pink, and violet hues. This natural phenomenon is best witnessed in the polar regions, with Iceland, Norway, and Canada being prime viewing spots. The ethereal beauty of the lights from solar particles colliding with atmospheric gasses offers a mesmerizing spectacle that enchants. Embarking on a journey to observe the Aurora Borealis promises the awe of nature’s grandeur and the thrill of exploring rugged landscapes under the arctic sky.

<p><span>Venice, a city of romance and mystery, floats on its canals, offering a unique blend of architectural beauty and cultural richness. Its maze of waterways, historic bridges, and ornate buildings evoke a sense of timelessness. The annual Carnival of Venice highlights the city’s vibrant cultural life with elaborate masks and costumes. Exploring Venice means gliding in gondolas, discovering hidden piazzas, and indulging in Venetian cuisine. Each corner of Venice tells a story, making it a captivating destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in art, history, and the charm of Italian life.</span></p>

13. Venice, Italy

Venice, a city of romance and mystery, floats on its canals, offering a unique blend of architectural beauty and cultural richness. Its maze of waterways, historic bridges, and ornate buildings evoke a sense of timelessness. The annual Carnival of Venice highlights the city’s vibrant cultural life with elaborate masks and costumes. Exploring Venice means gliding in gondolas, discovering hidden piazzas, and indulging in Venetian cuisine. Each corner of Venice tells a story, making it a captivating destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in art, history, and the charm of Italian life.

<p><span>The vast ecosystem of the Serengeti National Park epitomizes the African safari experience. It is famed for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse its plains for fresh grazing. Beyond this spectacle, the Serengeti is home to diverse wildlife, including the Big Five. Its expansive landscapes, from savannahs to river forests, offer an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the wild, understand the intricacies of nature, and witness conservation in action, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers.</span></p>

14. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The vast ecosystem of the Serengeti National Park epitomizes the African safari experience. It is famed for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse its plains for fresh grazing. Beyond this spectacle, the Serengeti is home to diverse wildlife, including the Big Five. Its expansive landscapes, from savannahs to river forests, offer an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the wild, understand the intricacies of nature, and witness conservation in action, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers.

<p><span>The Taj Mahal is a monument to love and architectural magnificence in Agra, India. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, this ivory-white marble mausoleum combines elements from Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish, and Indian architectural styles. The surrounding gardens and reflective pool further enhance its stunning beauty. The Taj Mahal symbolizes eternal love and India’s rich history and cultural diversity, attracting visitors from <a href="https://www.kindafrugal.com/16-cultural-festivals-around-the-world/">around the globe to marvel at one of the world’s</a> most celebrated landmarks.</span></p>

15. Taj Mahal, India

The Taj Mahal is a monument to love and architectural magnificence in Agra, India. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, this ivory-white marble mausoleum combines elements from Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish, and Indian architectural styles. The surrounding gardens and reflective pool further enhance its stunning beauty. The Taj Mahal symbolizes eternal love and India’s rich history and cultural diversity, attracting visitors from around the globe to marvel at one of the world’s most celebrated landmarks.

<p><span>Banff National Park, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offers an adventure paradise with its stunning mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife. The park’s scenery is unmatched, from Lake Louise’s vibrant turquoise waters to Mount Rundle’s majestic peaks. Hiking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing are just a few activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty. Banff’s breathtaking vistas and outdoor experiences make it an essential destination for those seeking to explore the wilderness and find solace in nature’s magnificence.</span></p>

16. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offers an adventure paradise with its stunning mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife. The park’s scenery is unmatched, from Lake Louise’s vibrant turquoise waters to Mount Rundle’s majestic peaks. Hiking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing are just a few activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty. Banff’s breathtaking vistas and outdoor experiences make it an essential destination for those seeking to explore the wilderness and find solace in nature’s magnificence.

<p><span>Embarking on a journey to these destinations is more than a travel plan; it’s a voyage into the heart of what makes our world so wonderfully diverse and beautiful. Let these places inspire you to explore, dream, and discover travel’s endless possibilities. Remember, each journey transforms us, leaving lasting impressions that enrich our lives. So, pack your bags, set your sights on new horizons, and let the adventure begin.</span></p>

Embark on a Journey

Embarking on a journey to these destinations is more than a travel plan; it’s a voyage into the heart of what makes our world so wonderfully diverse and beautiful. Let these places inspire you to explore, dream, and discover travel’s endless possibilities. Remember, each journey transforms us, leaving lasting impressions that enrich our lives. So, pack your bags, set your sights on new horizons, and let the adventure begin.

<p>America is so huge that there seem to be endless iconic monuments and exciting places to see. It’s hard to know what is going to be worth your while. After all, taking time off work, saving up for a trip, and taking time to plan is no easy feat. These are the best U.S. landmarks worth visiting, according to a recent poll by people who have visited them. What would you add to the list?</p><p class="entry-title"><a href="https://www.kindafrugal.com/u-s-landmarks/">12 U.S. Landmarks That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List</a></p>

12 U.S. Landmarks That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List

America is so huge that there seem to be endless iconic monuments and exciting places to see. It’s hard to know what is going to be worth your while. After all, taking time off work, saving up for a trip, and taking time to plan is no easy feat. These are the best U.S. landmarks worth visiting, according to a recent poll by people who have visited them. What would you add to the list?

<p>What items are on your wish list? Do you keep a list of all the places you want to see before you pass away? Or perhaps it’s a list of the places you want to go in the upcoming years. You go to a lot of places that alter your life. Some are mystical, some are historical, and some are simply stunning. To pique your curiosity, we have created the ultimate trip wish list that can be helpful a lot.</p><p class="gb-headline gb-headline-56c7eb13 gb-headline-text"><a href="https://thefrugalexpat.com/bucket-list-destinations/">15 of The Most Stunning Bucket List Destinations to See</a></p>

15 of the Most Stunning Bucket List Destinations to See

What items are on your wish list? Do you keep a list of all the places you want to see before you pass away? Or perhaps it’s a list of the places you want to go in the upcoming years. You go to a lot of places that alter your life. Some are mystical, some are historical, and some are simply stunning. To pique your curiosity, we have created the ultimate trip wish list that can be helpful a lot.

15 of The Most Stunning Bucket List Destinations to See

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Top 10 of the most beautiful places to visit in Peru
15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru
11 Things You MUST Do in Peru
18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru
11 Top-Rated Peru Tourist Attractions To Visit
7 Best Places To Visit in Peru

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Top 5 Top Tourist Destinations
Top tourist destinations in the world ( part 2 ) #2024 #travel #mostpopulated #fyp
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पेरू देश की वो बातें जो आप नही जानतें
Top Tourist Destinations A Global Count
Perú, Un País Impresionante

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The 13 most incredible places to visit in Peru
Best for trekking. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World and Peru's greatest claim to tourism fame, Machu Picchu lives up to its hype as a mystical and awe-inspiring 15th-century archaeological site. Built with incredible precision, attention to detail and at the great height of 2430m (7972ft) above sea level, Machu Picchu includes ...
18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru
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.
25 Top Tourist Attractions in Peru (+Map)
Other popular tourist attractions in Peru are some great natural wonders. The Andes run the full length of the country, rising to almost 7,000 meters (23,000 feet). ... Machu Picchu is the indisputable #1 among the top tourist attractions in Peru. The "Lost City of the Incas" is invisible from the Urubamba Valley below and completely self ...
17 Best Places to Visit in Peru (+Map)
Visiting the nearby Pacaya Samiria National Reserve near Lagunas is one of the best places for spotting some unusual Amazonian wildlife. 8. Puno. 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.
10 best things to do in Peru
Here are the best places to visit on a trip to Peru. Activities. The 13 best things to do in Lima. Nov 9, 2023 • 7 min read. Hiking. Follow the sun: exploring ancient Incan history in southern Peru. Sep 1, 2023 • 7 min read. Hiking. How to experience Inca ruins at Machu Picchu - without the crowds.
15 Absolute BEST Places to Visit in Peru (2024 Guide!)
Machu Picchu - This all-inclusive day trip by train is such a beautiful journey. Cusco - Try your hand at this Peruvian cooking class. Puerto Maldonado - Travel through the Amazon to visit Macaw Clay Lick on this jungle excursion. Colca Canyon - Enjoy this 3-day hike through one of the deepest canyons in the world.
The 28 Most Beautiful Places in Peru
The 28 Most Beautiful Places in Peru. Machu Picchu is just the tip of the iceberg (although if you want actual icebergs, Peru has those, too). By Megan Spurrell. December 27, 2018. Getty. For many ...
The 41 Most Incredible Places to Visit in Peru in 2024
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. Machu Picchu is easily Peru's most famous tourist attraction and remains top of most traveler's bucket lists.
The 16 Best Places to Visit in Peru in 2024
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.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Peru
2023. 2. Museo Larco. 12,674. History Museums. Admission tickets from $13. MUSEO LARCO OPENS FROM 9AM TO 10PM, DAILY. The Museo Larco is housed in an exquisite 18th century vice-royal mansion, built over a 7th century pre-Columbian pyramid and surrounded by beautiful gardens. The museum's galleries exhibit the finest and most magnificent gold ...
25 Best Places To Visit In Peru [2024 Local's Travel Guide]
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).
Peru travel
Family Travel. 7 of the best things to do with kids in Peru. Jan 30, 2024 • 7 min read. Every adventure-seeking family with a great appetite should have Peru on their "dream destinations" list.
15 Best Places to Visit in Peru
Let's explore the best places to visit in Peru: 1. Machu Picchu. Source: flickr. 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 ...
11 Top-Rated Peru Tourist Attractions To Visit
Machu Picchu. 2. Machu Picchu. Perhaps the most popular of the Peru attractions to visit is Machu Picchu. Listed as one of the new seven wonders of the world, Machu Picchu is known as the Incas' ancient ceremonial center. Located high up above the Urubamba River, the complex set of ruins provides a dramatic setting against the lush mountain ...
15 Best Tourist Attractions in Peru
Here are the 15 best attractions in Peru that should not be missed, in no particular order. 1. Machu Picchu. See more. 2. The Choquequirao Ruins. See more. 3. Cordillera Blanca Treks.
The Top 10 Peru Destinations to Visit in 2024
Tarapoto. Located in the north jungle of Peru, Tarapoto is one of the most interesting destinations in the country. For a one day adventure, just 20 minutes from Tarapoto visit Ahuashiyacu waterfalls. Here, you can swim in the natural pools and discover the local wildlife.
15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru
Nazca Lines. This attraction is probably one of the most iconic in Peru and we're sure most of you will recognise images of this sprawling place. The Nazca Lines are still part mystery to locals and archaeologists alike. They were discovered in the 1920s from the air when they noticed the lines created patterns.
Here are the top 5 places to visit in Peru
Cusco. Plaza de Armas People enjoy Cusco's main square, the Plaza de Armas, at night. Video by Caity Garvey. Lima may hold the title as the official capital of Peru, but Cusco is the original seat ...
The 7 Best tourist attractions in Peru
Here is a list of the 7 top tourist attractions in Peru: Arequipa: Colca Canyon. Arequipa is one of Peru's most beautiful cities and the second most populous. It boasts stunning colonial architecture, including churches, temples, monasteries, and mansions dating back to the time of the Spanish conquest. This beautiful city is a perfect ...
Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru
8. Rainbow Mountain. A variety of colors over wavy mountains that go throughout flatlands with an altitude of over 5,200 meters above sea level makes Rainbow Mountain the best tourist attraction in Peru. The zone is located southeast of Cusco and there are two ways to reach it, Pitumarca or Cusipata access ways.
Official Tourism Website of Peru
Throughout Peru you can find marvelous vestiges of the past that astonish the world's travelers. Machu Picchu is a must-see destination, but Peru is also home to Kuelap and Chavin de Huantar, Caral and Chan Chan, the Nasca Lines and Sipan … and we could name even more! See more. Cultural History. City tour in Cusco's historic center.
Tourist Places of Peru. The 35 Best Destinations to Visit
The best places and tourist destinations to visit in Peru. Here we will list the tourist destinations in Peru that, undoubtedly, we recommend visiting so that your trip does not lack anything: 1- Machu Picchu: Of course, if we talk about places to visit in Peru, we must mention the ancient Inca city recognized as one of the 7 Wonders of the ...
The 8 highest tourist attractions in Peru
Peru is a country in South America whose territory is crossed by an immense strip of the Andes Mountains. This spectacular geography allows you to visit important tourist attractions such as Machu Picchu, considered one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World. However, Peru has many tourist attractions with high mountains and even snow-capped ...
17 Top Rated Destinations to Make Sure to Visit in Your Lifetime
17 Top Rated Destinations to Make Sure to Visit in Your Lifetime. ... Peru. Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan sanctuary nestled in the Peruvian Andes, is a marvel of engineering and a testament to ...

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru

1. Machu Picchu

More on Peru

17 Best Places to Visit in Peru

Map of Places to Visit in Peru

17. Chachapoyas

16. Paracas National Reserve

15. Chan Chan

14. Huascaran National Park

13. Huacachina

12. Mancora

11. Trujillo

10. Nazca Desert

6. Colca Canyon

5. Sacred Valley

4. Inca Trail

3. Arequipa

1. Machu Picchu

Peru Travel Video

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The 28 Most Beautiful Places in Peru

Colca Canyon

Machu Picchu

Salkantay Pass

Historic Center of Lima

Choquequirao

Pastoruri Glacier

Nazca Lines

Huascaran National Park

Cañon de los Perdidos

Ollantaytambo

Pacaya Samiria National Reserve

Paracas Natural Reserve

Cordillera Huayhuash

Uros Floating Islands

Gocta Falls

The 41 Most Incredible Places to Visit in Peru in 2023

Eighteen Places to Visit in Northern Peru

Santuario de la Virgen del Rosario de Polloc

Ventanillas de Otuzco and de Combayo

Chachapoyas

San Pedro de Mendoza

Gocta and Yumbilla Falls

Kuélap

Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipán

Bosque del Pómac and Batán Grande

Chavín de Huantar

Nine Places to Visit in Central Peru

Museo Larco, Lima

The Marcahuasi “stone forest”

Paracas National Reserve

Ica’s vineyards

Huacachina’s sand dunes

Fourteen Places to Visit in Southern Peru

Awana Kancha Llama Sanctuary

Need help planning your trip to Peru?

The Sacred Valley

Machu Picchu

Choquequirao

The Rainbow Mountains

Puerto Maldonado and the Tambopata National Reserve

Manu National Park

Volcan Misti

The Cañón del Colca

The Reserva Paisajística Subcuenca del Cotahuasi

Lake Titicaca

FAQs about visiting Peru

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