Peru: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Are you ready for an exciting journey through South America’s most diverse spot? Peru will amaze you with its ancient ruins, lush rainforest, and delicious food. We’ll show you the top spots and experiences that make Peru a top choice for travelers.

• Peru is two times the size of Texas and four times larger than Italy, offering a diverse range of landscapes and attractions.
• The capital city of Lima boasts a bustling coastal setting, historic colonial architecture, and world-class museums.
• Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, is a hub of Inca and Spanish colonial history, with impressive sites like Sacsayhuaman and the Museo de Arte Precolombino.
• Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel, is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu is considered one of the world’s most famous hikes, offering stunning vistas and a glimpse into the Inca Empire.

Lima, the capital and largest city in Peru, is a mix of modern and historic beauty. It’s a place where you can see the best of both worlds. Start your journey to discover what makes this city so special.

Begin your visit by walking along the Malecon, a beautiful seaside walk. You’ll see hang gliders flying high and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean. This spot is a top choice for visitors, offering a calm break from the city’s busy life.

Next, head to the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with colonial architecture. Here, you’ll find the Plaza de Armas, a grand square with the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral, and old buildings around it. Wander the cobblestone streets to find hidden spots and learn about Peru’s culture.

Don’t miss the Larco Museum, famous for its pre-Columbian art. It’s in an 18th-century mansion and has a huge collection of Peruvian history. See ceramics, textiles, and gold pieces that tell stories of the past.

“The Larco Museum is a true gem, offering a window into Peru’s rich cultural heritage through its extraordinary collection of pre-Columbian art.” – Lonely Planet

Cusco was once the heart of the Inca Empire. It’s a city that takes you back in time. Located high in the Andes, it’s a place where history and culture meet.

Start your adventure in the Plaza de Armas, the city’s lively center. This square is filled with beautiful colonial buildings. Right in the middle stands the Cusco Cathedral, built from 1560 to 1654.

The cathedral shows off a mix of Inca and Spanish styles. Its grand look and detailed inside tell stories of the past.

Not far from the city, you’ll find Sacsayhuaman, an Inca fortress. It sits at 12,142 feet high. This massive structure has huge stone walls and amazing design.

It was a key part of the Inca capital. Visitors can see the skill of the Inca builders.

For a deeper dive into Inca history and other ancient cultures, go to the Museo de Arte Precolombino. This museum has a huge collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts.

It gives a close look at the art, culture, and technology of these ancient peoples.

Cusco is the entrance to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. It’s a city where old and new meet. Visitors can dive into the rich history and lively culture of the Inca Empire.

Machu Picchu is the gem of Peru, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Wonders of the World. It’s called the “Lost City of the Incas” and sits on a mountain ridge in a cloud forest. The Inca built this amazing place with huge stones that seem to fit together without any gaps.

Visiting Machu Picchu is unforgettable, with its beautiful views and well-kept ruins. The Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary spans 80,537 acres, full of hidden spots and trails. You’ll see the Intihuatana stone and the famous Inca buildings, each telling a story of the Inca’s great achievements.

The best way to see Machu Picchu is by hiking the Inca Trail through the Cusco region. It ends at the amazing citadel. Or, you can try the Lares or Salkantay treks for different views and cultural experiences.

Whether you hike or take the train from Aguas Calientes, visiting Machu Picchu is unforgettable. It has stunning views, a rich history, and cultural importance. This UNESCO site is a top spot for travelers to Peru.

The Inca Trail is a world-famous hike that goes through the Andes Mountains. It leads to the amazing Machu Picchu. You can do it in a few days or just one day. It’s a chance to dive into the ancient Incan Empire.

The four-day Inca Trail hike is the classic way to see this famous path. It’s 26 miles long and goes over 13,000 feet high. You’ll see Inca ruins, beautiful mountains, and feel connected to the past.

This trek takes 4 days and 3 nights. It lets you enjoy every moment of the journey.

If you’re short on time, try the one-day Inca Trail hike. It covers about 13 kilometers and ends at the Sun Gate. You’ll see Machu Picchu from above, even if you don’t do the full trek.

Choosing the Inca Trail means you’re in for a tough but rewarding trip. Only 500 people can hike it each day. So, book early, about 6 months ahead. It’s an experience that will amaze you with its beauty and history.

“The Inca Trail hike culminates at the Puerta de Sol (Sun Gate), overlooking the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, a sight that will take your breath away.”

Beyond Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley is full of ancient sites and natural beauty. It lies between Cusco and the famous Inca citadel. This area is rich in culture and stunning views.

Head to Pisac to see the Inca ruins. They show the amazing skills of the ancient builders. The ruins sit on a mountain, with fields, plazas, and stonework that amaze visitors.

Then, go to Ollantaytambo. Here, you can see well-kept Inca ruins. Be amazed by the huge stone structures, like the bathing fountains and granaries. They prove the Incas’ great building skills.

Leave the ruins behind and see the Sacred Valley‘s natural sights. Visit the Maras salt ponds, where salt has been made for years. They look like white ponds in the sun. Near them, check out the Moray terraces, where the Incas grew different crops in various climates.

The Sacred Valley is a place full of history, culture, and beauty. It’s perfect for those wanting to learn about the Inca civilization. You can explore ruins, see amazing views, or meet local people. The Sacred Valley will give you memories to last a lifetime.

Peru is a place full of diverse experiences for all kinds of travelers. You can explore the lively capital of Lima, visit ancient Inca sites in Cusco, or see the famous Machu Picchu. The country is full of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Looking for outdoor adventures, tasty food, or ancient history? Peru has it all. You can walk along the 3,220km (2,000-mile) Pacific coast, check out the historical heritage of Inca ruins, or enjoy the sophisticated Peruvian cuisine loved worldwide.

Nature lovers will find plenty to do in Peru. From the lush rainforest around Machu Picchu to the snow-capped mountains and glaciers of the Cordillera Blanca. You can go hiking, birding, and photography in these beautiful places.

Peru’s cities, like the cosmopolitan Lima, offer a modern travel experience. Enjoy the sophisticated nightlife, shopping, and a thriving culinary scene. For a deeper cultural experience, visit artisanal markets, take immersive train journeys, and see traditional textiles.

Planning a 11-15 day trip or a shorter visit? Peru has many amazing things to do. You’ll have an unforgettable journey with incredible experiences.

Lake Titicaca, in the Andes Mountains, is the highest freshwater lake you can sail on. It’s home to the Uros Islands, floating islands made of reeds. These islands are where an indigenous community lives.

The Uros Islands are built from reeds from the lake. It takes 8 men a week to make one island. They rebuild them often because the reeds don’t last long. About 2,000 people live here, in their reed-based homes, keeping their culture alive.

When you visit the Uros Islands, you can learn about the Uros’ traditions. You can see their floating villages and take a ride on a reed boat. It’s an experience unlike any other.

Going to the Uros Islands is perfect for those who love culture or just want to see something amazing. It’s a key spot in Peru that shows the Uros people’s amazing way of life. Make sure to visit and see their floating community for yourself.

Arequipa is known as the “White City” and is a top spot in Peru. It sits at 7,660 ft (2,335 m) high and is known for its beautiful colonial buildings. The city has a skyline that includes the famous Misti Volcano.

Walking through the historic district, you’ll see beautiful plazas, fancy churches, and the Basilica Cathedral. These places show off the city’s Spanish roots.

Visit the Santa Catalina Monastery to learn about Arequipa’s history. This huge convent lets you see how nuns lived in the past. It has winding paths, quiet courtyards, and colorful murals.

This place takes you back in time. It’s a great way to experience the city’s culture.

Arequipa is not just for sightseers. It’s also a food lover’s dream. You can try dishes like rocoto relleno and adobo de chancho. Don’t forget to try cuy and ocopa too.

“Arequipa, with its stunning colonial architecture and vibrant culinary scene, is a true gem in the heart of Peru.”

Get ready for an adventure in one of the world’s deepest canyons – the stunning Colca Canyon in Peru. It’s as deep as 3,400 meters, twice as deep as the famous Grand Canyon. This place is a dream for those who love hiking and nature.

On your journey, look out for the Andean condor, the biggest flying bird in the world. These birds fly high above the canyon’s steep cliffs and farmlands. Seeing them is an amazing sight that will amaze you.

The Colca Canyon is a top spot for seeing condors, especially at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint. Here, you can watch these huge birds fly on the canyon’s winds. It’s an unforgettable moment for nature lovers.

You can choose from a one-day, two-day, or three-day hike in the Colca Canyon. The best time to go is from May to October, when it’s dry and sunny. Or, visit from November to April for cooler weather and fewer people.

Visiting the Colca Canyon is an adventure you won’t forget. You’ll see beautiful views, meet local people, and see the Andean condor flying high. It’s a chance to dive into one of Peru’s most beautiful natural spots.

Step into the lush Amazon rainforest in Peru and dive into a world full of life. This vast area covers nearly two-thirds of the country. It’s a place where you can connect with nature and understand its value.

Only 5 percent of Peru lives in the Amazon rainforest. It’s a vast, untouched area ready for exploration. You can enter through Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos. These places make it easy to visit the Tambopata National Reserve and Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve.

Visit the Amazon in the dry season from May to October or the wet season from November to April. Each season has its perks. You’ll see everything from the Andean condor to colorful birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.

Experience the Amazon’s wonders and discover its diverse ecosystems and communities. Peru offers unique eco-tourism experiences. Whether you love nature, wildlife, or adventure, the Peruvian Amazon will amaze you.

Peru’s food scene is a mix of indigenous and Spanish tastes, offering many flavors and dishes. You can’t miss trying the famous ceviche. It’s fresh raw fish marinated in citrus and seasoned with chili peppers. Enjoy it with a Pisco sour, a cocktail made with Pisco brandy.

Peruvian food combines pre-Columbian ingredients with Spanish cooking, making meals unique and tasty. The country has over 4,000 types of native potatoes, plus a lot of corn and seafood. This makes the food scene rich and varied.

Ceviche is a favorite dish in Peru. It’s made with fresh fish marinated in citrus juice and seasoned with chili peppers, onions, and other herbs. The citrus “cooks” the fish, making it refreshing and tasty. Try it with a Pisco sour, a cocktail that includes Pisco brandy, lime juice, and egg white.

Peruvian food is a mix of indigenous and Spanish tastes. It uses ingredients like potatoes, corn, seafood, and meat with spices, herbs, and creative flavor combinations. Dishes like Lomo Saltado and Rocoto Relleno show off this mix of flavors.

Whether you’re enjoying ceviche, drinking a Pisco sour, or trying other Peruvian dishes, your food adventure in Peru will be memorable.

“Peru is a gastronomic paradise, where the rich diversity of ingredients and the creativity of its chefs come together to create a cuisine that is truly unique and world-class.” – Chef Gastón Acurio, pioneer of Peruvian cuisine

Peru is a captivating destination full of unique experiences for travelers. It has everything from the lively capital of Lima to ancient Inca sites in Cusco and the famous Machu Picchu. The country also boasts the lush Amazon rainforest, offering a mix of history, culture, and nature.

Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, trying new foods, or learning about ancient cultures, Peru has it all. You’ll find attractions and experiences that will make your trip unforgettable. They’ll inspire you to visit this amazing place again.

Getting around Peru is easy with affordable domestic flights. These flights connect you to the country’s main areas. You can also enjoy the rich history and culture by visiting important sites. This makes your trip extraordinary.

By changing your travel dates and using the competitive airline market, you can save money. This lets you see more of what Peru has to offer. You can hike the Inca Trail, see Machu Picchu, or explore the lively capital of Lima.

When planning your trip, make sure to mix cultural and historical sites with outdoor activities and food experiences. Peru has many unique activities and is great for families in the Amazon. So, start your journey and dive into the rich world of Peru travel, top attractions, and diverse experiences. Let Peru leave a lasting impression on you.