Peru is a well-known and popular destination in South America. Many tourists are familiar with the famous Machu Picchu, a mysterious settlement that is often seen on postcards. However, Peru has much more to offer than just ancient ruins.
There are many other attractions to explore in Peru, from pre-Columbian settlements to the modern cities along the Southern Peru Tourist Corridor. Visitors can visit museums in Lima, relax in the hot springs of Cusco, which is located at a high altitude, or even take a flight to see the incredible Nazca lines.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Peru.
17. Cusco
Cusco, a vibrant city located in the Southern Sierras, was once the capital of the Incan Empire. Today, it is known as the archaeological capital of the Americas. It attracts many visitors due to its convenient access to Machu Picchu and the magnificent Sacred Valley of the Incas.
The heart of the city is the Plaza de Armas, a main square surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and churches. Close by, the lively San Pedro Market offers a variety of Quechua handicrafts and fresh produce.
Outside the city, you will find an important Inca site called Sacsayhuaman, which consists of a huge walled complex made of large limestone boulders. This site is remarkable for its alignment with the solstices and its ability to withstand earthquakes.
Cusco is enriched with Quechua culture and offers breathtaking trekking routes and hot springs in its mountainous surroundings. Exploring the city streets with their colonial architecture, craft markets, museums, boutique hotels, and art galleries feels like stepping into the past.
However, be aware that Cusco’s high-altitude location, at 3,400 meters above sea level, puts visitors at risk of altitude sickness. It is advisable to allocate time for acclimatization before fully experiencing the city.
16. Trujillo
Trujillo, located eight hours north of Lima in a beautiful valley, is renowned for its picturesque colonial center. The city is filled with charming churches, colorful Spanish mansions, and friendly residents. Trujillo was established in the 1500s near the Chan Chan ruins, which belonged to the powerful Chan Chan empire in ancient Peru.
These ruins, surrounded by walls, are made of adobe and are the largest adobe city in the Americas. They include religious temples, burial sites, and royal residences. However, Trujillo offers more than just historical remnants.
Pay a visit to the National University of Trujillo, which was founded in the 19th century and is one of the largest universities in South America. It is famous for having the world’s longest mosaic. Another must-see is the striking murals at Huaca de la Luna, also known as the Temple of the Moon.
Unfortunately, these murals depict human sacrifices. After a day of exploration, don’t miss the opportunity to unwind at the beaches in the nearby resort town of Huanchaco. Just remember to bring your sunscreen!.
15. Colca Canyon
Colca Canyon is a popular tourist spot in Peru that is situated in the mountainous Southern Sierra region. With its vast size of over 70 kilometers, it is the second-deepest canyon in the world and offers stunning views of Andean culture and nature.
The canyon’s landscapes are incredibly diverse, ranging from barren steppe and stepped terraces to steep cliffs and towering mountain peaks. No matter where you look, the scenery is breathtaking, especially when you catch a glimpse of Andean condors soaring above the canyon, which has a depth of 3,140 meters.
Throughout the canyon, you’ll find archaeological sites and ruins, and the local people living in small villages and towns have preserved their ancestral traditions.
Many visitors to Colca Canyon start their journey in Chivay and embark on a trek along the picturesque rim, taking in the incredible scenery of ravines and daring drops along the way.
14. Iquitos
Iquitos, the capital of the Loreto region, is located in the northern part of the Peruvian Amazon. Surprisingly, this city, which was originally settled by a tribe of hunter-gatherers, is now the largest city in the world that cannot be reached by road.
Although it may be a bit difficult to reach Iquitos, either by flying or by boating, the experience is definitely worth it. Despite its remote location, Iquitos offers a mix of traditional and modern architecture. You can see wooden huts on stilts along the riverside, as well as historic buildings in the central plaza.
The city provides an authentic escape into the Amazon jungle, where you can visit the Belen floating market for various goods, or the San Juan crafts market for souvenirs. Iquitos’ isolation works in its favor, as the surrounding jungle offers excellent opportunities for wildlife watching.
It is the main hub for boat trips along the Amazon River, where you can spot monkeys, alligators, and even the famous anacondas. If you’re interested in seeing unique Amazonian wildlife, visiting the nearby Pacaya Samiria National Reserve near Lagunas is highly recommended.
13. Chachapoyas
Chachapoyas is a small city located in a beautiful and secluded area, far away from the coast of Peru. It is the capital of Amazonas and is surrounded by mountains.
Although the city itself may not have much to offer, it serves as a starting point for exploring the breathtaking natural landscapes and archaeological sites in the surrounding area.The city was founded by the Spanish in 1538 and still has some interesting monuments and colonial buildings.
There are also plenty of restaurants, hotels, and tour operators located in its main plaza. One of the attractions that can be visited from Chachapoyas is the unique sarcophagi of Karajia.
Another notable site is the ancient stone city of Kuelap, which is the largest pre-Inca ruins in South America.In addition to these historical sites, the area is also known for its natural beauty. The mountains, valleys, and forests are home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including many brightly colored birds.
There are also numerous sparkling waterfalls, with Gocta Cataracts being the most impressive at over 700 meters in height.Due to the abundance of stunning landscapes, hiking and trekking are popular activities in Chachapoyas. Visitors can easily arrange these activities in the city and explore the surrounding areas.
12. Puno
Puno is a beautiful city located on a hill by the port. It acts as a natural entrance to Lake Titicaca and the Uros Floating Islands. Boats depart from the dock every 40 minutes to reach these islands. The city of Puno is situated at a high altitude of 3,800 meters, allowing for stunning views of the lakes and surrounding islands.
It is a popular destination for tourists because of its convenient access to neighboring Bolivia and Chile. Despite this, Puno offers a more relaxed and laidback atmosphere compared to the upscale lake islands it overlooks. Additionally, the souvenirs sold at the lakeside market are much cheaper than those found in Cusco or Lima.
One of the main highlights of Puno is the opportunity to visit the famous floating Uros islands. Boats leave the dock every 40 minutes for this excursion. The city also provides a great chance to experience the Aymara and Quechua cultures.
Activities such as visiting a llama farm and staying overnight with a local family are popular among visitors. The population of Puno consists mainly of Andean people, resulting in a fascinating blend of modern and traditional customs. It is common to see women dressed in colorful traditional clothing in the city.
11. Machu Picchu
Visiting Machu Picchu in Peru is a must for everyone, regardless of their reason for visiting the country. Located 2,430 meters high in the Andes, this ancient Incan city is always surrounded by mist, making it appear mysterious and hidden.
It remained undiscovered for many years, earning it the nickname ‘the Lost City of the Incas.’ Eventually, an explorer stumbled upon it by accident. Since then, it has become a highly desired destination for travelers around the world.
Due to its popularity, it is important to plan your trip well in advance to avoid large crowds.There are various ways to reach the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu. Many people opt to trek the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trail, while others prefer a more leisurely journey by train. Once you arrive at the site, there is plenty to explore.
You can visit well-preserved buildings such as houses, temples, fountains, and baths. Additionally, there are agricultural terraces and evidence of an irrigation system to marvel at. Don’t forget to take in the surrounding views from the Sun Gate, which serves as the entrance to Machu Picchu from the famous Inca Trail.
For a panoramic view, you can also climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
10. Inca Trail
The Inca Trail in Peru is a famous trek that offers breathtaking views of mountains, passes, and valleys. It takes around four days to complete and starts near Cusco. The goal of the hike is to reach Machu Picchu, a mythical city of the Incas.
This trail follows ancient paths built by the Incas and takes you through various ecosystems and landscapes. You will see stepped terraces, alpine tundra, and cloud forests while enjoying the sight of deep valleys and tall mountains in the distance.
Along the way, you will also encounter ancient ruins as the Inca civilization was centered in the highlands. Because the Inca Trail is very popular, visitors need to book with a tour operator and can choose from different routes of varying distances and elevations.
Hiking this historic trail in the footsteps of the Incas is an unforgettable experience that adds to the magic of reaching Machu Picchu.
9. Nazca Desert
The Nazca lines in Peru’s desert are fascinating inscriptions that were created by the Nazca people a long time ago. These ancient lines, featuring animals and patterns, can be seen because of the desert’s stable weather conditions.
The best way to fully appreciate the lines is by taking a flight over them, although there is also an observation tower along a nearby highway where you can see three of the main figures. Additionally, there are underground channels called the Nazca channels that enable the growth of crops in the desert.
8. Huacachina
Huacachina is a charming village located near Ica in Peru’s southwest region. It is a popular destination mainly because of its unique setting amidst sand dunes. The village seems almost like a dream, as it is nestled around a hidden oasis with beautiful palm trees and nothing but sand all around.
The sandy landscape of Huacachina makes it ideal for various outdoor activities. Sandboarding, quad biking, and dune buggy rides are popular among visitors. Climbing to the top of the sandy hills offers breathtaking views, especially during mesmerizing sunsets.
Those looking for a more relaxed experience can simply spend time by the oasis, enjoying the stunning scenery or taking a refreshing swim to escape the intense heat. Huacachina caters to tourists with several options for dining, drinking, and accommodation, and there are also a few small shops and kiosks available.
If you wish to explore beyond Huacachina, you can visit the nearby wineries and vineyards in Ica, where you can savor some delicious locally produced wine.
7. Chan Chan
Located just outside the city of Trujillo in northwest Peru, Chan Chan is an extraordinary archaeological site. It is the largest pre-Columbian city found so far in the country and sits at the mouth of the Moche Valley, in a barren and dry area close to the Pacific Ocean.
Initially established around AD 850, Chan Chan became the capital of the Chimu Empire, and impressive structures like palaces, plazas, and temples were constructed. Although the city is mostly made of adobe and has suffered from erosion, many beautiful carvings, friezes, and features are still intact.
Buried within the sprawling city, there are ten royal compounds that served as the homes for the kings of Chimu. These compounds included ceremonial halls, burial chambers, and palaces, where the kings were laid to rest upon their death.
One of these compounds, known as Palacio Nik An, has been partially restored and is open for visitors to explore. It showcases stunning geometric designs, marine-inspired motifs, and astonishing architecture.
6. Huascaran National Park
Huascaran National Park is located in the Central Sierra region of Peru, high up in the Andes. It covers most of the Cordillera Blanca, which is the highest tropical mountain range in the world. The park is known for its stunning scenery and is home to many different plants and animals.
It was established in 1975 and is spread out over a large area, with several tall mountains within its boundaries. The highest peak in Peru, called Huascaran, is located here and stands at 6,768 meters tall. The range is covered in over 600 glaciers, which sparkle in the sun. The area also has many lakes and rivers down below.
The Cordillera Blanca has valleys, plateaus, and steep slopes, which provide habitats for a variety of plants and animals. There are also ancient ruins scattered throughout the park. With its beautiful landscapes, the park is a great place for activities like trekking, mountain climbing, skiing, and wildlife watching.
Seeing a puma or a spectacled bear, which is endangered, is an unforgettable experience.
5. Lima
Lima, the capital and largest city of Peru, is home to around 9 million people. It was established in 1535 by Francisco Pizarro, a Spanish conquistador. Lima has a fascinating history and offers a variety of delicious food and a vibrant culture. The city has a mix of modern hotels, as well as traditional and colonial-style buildings.
In addition, there are organized slums along with energetic nightclubs and bars. The influence of Spanish rule for three centuries can be seen in Lima’s captivating Spanish-colonial churches, cloisters, and monasteries, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
One of Lima’s highlights is its proximity to the coast, making it a haven for seafood lovers. Joining a Lima food tour is an excellent way to sample authentic Peruvian dishes like Ceviche and to explore the city’s genuine markets and restaurants.
Whether you’re wandering through the historic center of Lima Centro, browsing the craft markets, or discovering the more tourist-friendly area of Miraflores with its abundance of antique shops and bars, Lima promises a unique and memorable experience.
4. Mancora
Mancora is a popular beach destination located on the northern coast of Peru. It offers a beautiful stretch of sandy coastline that attracts tourists from all over. Whether you’re a backpacker or prefer luxurious beach resorts, you’ll find accommodation options here.
The main street of Mancora is vibrant with lively beach bars, seafood restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife scene. While the area is known for its relaxing beach days, there are also opportunities for more active endeavors such as surfing, walking along the beach, and even spotting dolphins and whales.
If you want to explore beyond Mancora, you can swim with turtles in El Nuro or visit the hot springs in Poza de Barro.
3. Paracas National Reserve
Paracas National Reserve is well-known for its stunning scenery, numerous historical sites, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife. It is located about 250 kilometers south of Lima, along Peru’s southern coastline. The reserve covers both marine and coastal desert environments, and it also includes a couple of dry and rocky islands.
While the rugged cliffs and deserted isles are constantly pounded by strong ocean waves, there are also calm and shallow waters in small coves and bays, perfect for swimming. The reserve’s sheltered beaches provide a serene atmosphere for relaxation, and activities like sailing and windsurfing are quite popular.
A highlight of a visit to Paracas National Reserve is taking a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands, where you can witness awe-inspiring rock formations and a wide variety of seabirds, seals, and sea lions.
Most visitors choose to stay in the nearby town of Paracas, which offers a range of amenities such as restaurants, bars, hotels, and tour operators. These tour operators can guide you to explore the ancient archaeological sites scattered throughout the reserve.
2. Arequipa
Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city, is situated 2,380 meters above sea level and is known as the ‘White City’ due to its buildings made of white volcanic rock called sillar. While it doesn’t have any ancient Incan settlements, it is famous for the well-preserved frozen body of the Mummy Juanita, a young Incan girl who was sacrificed to the gods.
The city showcases Spanish colonial architecture, with the Santa Catalina Convent being a notable example. Bridges like the Puente Bolognesi offer both historical significance and picturesque views, while the Plaza de Armas is a popular starting point for tourists with its shops, restaurants, and old churches.
Arequipa is also the gateway to the vibrant Colca Canyon, one of Peru’s top tourist attractions, reaching a depth of 3,270 meters.
1. Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley of the Incas used to be an important place for the Inca Empire. It is located in the Andes, close to Cusco and Machu Picchu. The Incas liked this valley because of its unique geography and climate. You can do exciting adventure activities here, like hiking, rafting, and rock climbing.
On the other hand, the towns of Yucay and Urubamba are becoming popular for relaxation and meditation. No matter which route you choose, there are many interesting things to discover along the way. There are beautiful old towns, remote villages, lively markets, and fascinating Incan sites like Pisac, Chinchero, and Ollantaytambo.
Take your time to explore the terraced hills above Pisac, and don’t miss the village’s famous artisanal market. Also, don’t forget to visit Choquequirao, which are ruins that are less crowded than Machu Picchu but still very impressive.
