Best Things to do in Peru
Discover Peru's wonders: from Machu Picchu treks to Amazon adventures.
Essentials
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Peru offers exceptional birdwatching lodges across its diverse habitats. In the Manu region, the Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge is famous for sightings of Peru’s national bird, while the Manu Wildlife Center provides access to spectacular macaw clay licks. For those seeking remote wilderness, the Tambopata Research Center within the Tambopata National Reserve is a top-tier destination for rare Amazonian species.
In the northern Andes, the Abra Patricia Owlet Lodge is essential for spotting the rare Long-whiskered Owlet and other endemics. For a mix of comfort and biodiversity, Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica near Puerto Maldonado is highly recommended. These lodges are distinguished by their strategic locations and expert birding guides, ensuring high species counts for visitors exploring Peru’s avian diversity.
Peru is a premier global destination for birdwatching, featuring diverse habitats that support over 1,800 species. Manu National Park and the Tambopata National Reserve are world-renowned for their Amazonian biodiversity and vibrant macaw clay licks. For those seeking high-altitude species, the Colca Canyon provides the best opportunity to see the Andean Condor, while Abra Malaga is a hotspot for unique Andean endemics. On the coast, the Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands offer sightings of Humboldt penguins and numerous marine birds. Additionally, Northern Peru’s Abra Patricia reserve is a must-visit for rare species like the Marvelous Spatuletail hummingbird and the Long-whiskered Owlet.
The best time for birdwatching in Peru is generally from September to November. During these months, many species are in their breeding season, making them more active, vocal, and easier to spot. This period also coincides with the arrival of migratory birds from the northern hemisphere, which significantly increases species diversity across various habitats.
The dry season from May to September is also a prime time, particularly for exploring the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. Lower rainfall during these months ensures better trail conditions and easier accessibility to remote birding sites. For those interested in coastal species, the southern summer between December and March is ideal for observing shorebirds and seabirds. While Peru offers productive birding opportunities year-round, the transition between the dry and wet seasons typically provides the most rewarding experience
Yes, a mirrorless camera can withstand a trip to high mountains with subzero temperatures if it is designed for durability and weather resistance. Many manufacturers produce models with tough, weather-sealed bodies that can handle cold, moisture, and dust. However, it is essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications for operating temperature ranges to ensure reliability in subzero conditions. Additionally, cold temperatures can affect battery performance, so carrying extra batteries and keeping them warm is advisable. Some users also carry silica gel packs to minimize internal condensation when moving between temperature extremes. Proper care and preparation can help ensure the camera functions well in high-altitude, cold environments.
Sharp, pointed mountain peaks are primarily formed by the processes of erosion and tectonic activity. When tectonic plates collide, they push the earth’s crust upward to form mountains, and peaks get sharper over time as erosion by wind, rain, and ice wears away the softer rock. This geological activity sculpts the dramatic, sky-pointing shapes seen in many mountain ranges.
