Best Things to do in Peru

Explore Machu Picchu

History of Machu Picchu

Perched high in the Andes, Machu Picchu stands as a relic of the Inca Empire. Believed to be a royal estate or sacred religious site, this architectural marvel was hidden from the outside world until its discovery in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning display of Inca ingenuity.

Hiking the Inca Trail

The classic Inca Trail is a rite of passage for any true adventure seeker. This four-day trek lets you follow in the footsteps of Incan pilgrims, ending with the Sun Gate’s panoramic view of Machu Picchu at sunrise—nature’s own standing ovation.

Alternative Routes

Those averse to following the beaten path have alternatives like the Salkantay Trek, marrying the allure of high peaks with lesser foot traffic. Or consider the Lares Trek, where cultural encounters with local communities are on the agenda alongside stunning vistas.

Wander the Streets of Cusco

Architectural Highlights

Cusco, the former Inca capital, is a feast of colonial architecture built atop Incan stone foundations. Not to be missed are the Qorikancha temple, the Cathedral, and the twelve-angled stone—a jigsaw piece of stonemasonry that’s more famous than some celebrities.

Local Markets and Cuisine

San Pedro Market is Cusco’s stomach, offering a kaleidoscope of flavors, from juicy anticuchos to hearty quinoa soup. The adventurous can try roasted guinea pig, a local delicacy that’s not quite as cuddly on a plate.

Visit the Amazon Rainforest

Wildlife Spotting

The Peruvian Amazon is a hotspot for biodiversity. Whether you’re cruising the river or trekking through the jungle, you’ll likely be photobombed by howler monkeys, caimans, or colorful macaws.

Eco-lodges and Tours

Opt for an eco-lodge to marry comfort with conservation, and choose tours led by local guides—they know how to find that elusive jaguar while giving you the scoop on rainforest ecology. For an unforgettable adventure, consider a Jungle Tour from Cusco.

Experience the Floating Islands of Lake Titicaca

Uros Culture

The Uros Islands are a group of man-made islands constructed entirely of reeds. The local population has been living on these buoyant platforms for centuries, developing a unique lifestyle intricately tied to the Totora reeds. Learn more about this fascinating destination in our Lake Titicaca guide.

Homestays on Taquile Island

For a more immersive experience, stay with a local family on Taquile Island. Their hospitality is as warm as the intricately woven textiles they create, and their island offers tranquility that some spas can only dream of. Discover more about visiting Lake Titicaca.

Discover the Nazca Lines

Overflight Tours

The Nazca Lines are a series of ancient geoglyphs best appreciated from the sky. Booking an overflight tour gives you a hawk’s eye view of these enigmatic figures, which have puzzled archaeologists and alien enthusiasts alike.

The Nazca Lines Observatory

For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, the Nazca Lines Observatory offers a more modest, albeit less dramatic, vantage point to ponder these mysterious carvings.

Adventure in Colca Canyon

Condor Viewing

Double the depth of the Grand Canyon, Colca Canyon is a prime spot for condor sightings. These birds with their colossal wingspan are the showstoppers in a place that’s no stranger to dramatic landscapes.

Trekking and Hot Springs

Put some sweat into your sightseeing with a trek through the canyon, and then soak your aches away in the hot springs. The natural geothermal baths are the perfect remedy for muscle malaise.

Sandboard in Huacachina

Lagoon Oasis

Huacachina is a literal oasis town complete with a legend of a mermaid lurking in its lagoon. The surrounding dunes are a giant sandbox for grown-ups, with sandboarding as the game of choice.

Dune Buggy Rides

Trade in your camel for a dune buggy and hold on tight—these rides are not for the faint of heart. It’s like a roller coaster without the tracks, and the adrenaline rush is as addictive as the local pisco.

Delight in Peruvian Cuisine

Trying Ceviche

Ceviche is Peru’s flagship dish—a citrusy concoction of fresh fish, ají, and onions. It’s a refreshing palate pleaser and a must-try, unless you’re a fish who can read, then I’d swim away fast.

Pisco Sour Tasting

A Pisco Sour is more than a drink; it’s a rite of passage. This cocktail, made with pisco, lime juice, egg white, and bitters, is a frothy bit of heaven that’ll have you questioning your life choices if you overindulge.

Marvel at Rainbow Mountain

Preparing for Altitude

Vinicunca, or Rainbow Mountain, is a geological wonder that looks like it’s been Photoshopped in real life. It sits high up at over 5,000 meters, so acclimatize accordingly, or you’ll be huffing and puffing more than the Big Bad Wolf.

Photography Tips

The vibrant stripes of Rainbow Mountain are a photographer’s dream, but lighting is key. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best natural filter, so aim for those golden hours to snap your soon-to-be most-liked Instagram photo.

Surfing in Máncora

Best Surf Spots

Máncora is the darling of Peru’s surf scene with waves for both rookies and old-hands. The water is warm, the waves are generous, and the surf schools are plentiful—just don’t drop in on a local’s wave unless you fancy a crash course in surf etiquette.

Relaxing Beach Life

When not chasing waves, the laid-back vibe of Máncora’s beaches is the perfect antidote to adventure burnout. Sway in a hammock, sip a cold one, and watch the pelicans dive-bomb for dinner—nature’s own reality show.

Colonial Charms of Arequipa

Santa Catalina Monastery

A city within a city, Santa Catalina Monastery is a must-visit for its vibrant walls and silent cloisters. It’s a pocket of tranquility that might just inspire you to take up a vow of silence, until you remember you have to tell everyone about this place.

Views of El Misti Volcano

Arequipa is watched over by El Misti Volcano—a conical beauty that’s either a stunning backdrop for your city explorations or a looming reminder that Mother Nature is always the boss.

Explore the Sacred Valley

Pisac Ruins and Market

The Pisac Ruins are an appetizer to Machu Picchu, with agricultural terraces that defy logic and a market at their base where bargaining is the local sport. Just remember the first rule of haggling: if you don’t walk away at least once, you’re doing it wrong.

Ollantaytambo Fortress

Ollantaytambo is where the Incas won a rare victory against the Spanish. The fortress here is a testament to Incan resilience, and its stone terraces are a stairway workout that’ll have your glutes begging for mercy.