Out of the Beaten Tracks places to visit in Peru

Northern Peru: Cloud Warriors & Ancient Kingdoms

For the returning visitor to Peru, or for those who wish to step away from the well-trodden southern circuit, the northern regions offer a profound journey into a rich pre-Inca past. Here, ancient civilizations have left their indelible mark on a landscape of cloud forests and dry coasts.

Kuelap & The Chachapoyas Region

Why go: A massive, walled citadel built by the “Cloud Warriors,” Kuelap is often referred to as the “Machu Picchu of the North.”

Highlights:

• Riding the cable car up to the Kuelap fortress, which provides a spectacular approach to the site.
• Hiking to Gocta Waterfall, recognized as one of the tallest waterfalls in the world.
• Viewing the Sarcophagi of Karajia, unique anthropomorphic tombs perched on a cliffside.

Best for: History buffs, hikers, and those seeking dramatic, misty landscapes.

The Moche Route: Trujillo & Chiclayo

Why go: This coastal route allows for an exploration of the powerful Moche and Chimú civilizations that flourished long before the Incas rose to prominence.

Highlights:

• The Huaca de la Luna (Temple of the Moon), featuring multiple levels of stunningly preserved, colorful murals.
• The Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum, which houses a world-class collection of gold artifacts and treasures from a Moche lord.
• Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the ancient world and the former capital of the Chimú kingdom.

Best for: Archaeology enthusiasts and anyone with a fascination for the intricate histories of ancient cultures.

The Central Highlands: Epic Treks & Authentic Culture

This region is for the adventurous and well-acclimatized traveler. It presents a landscape of raw, high-altitude beauty that demands physical effort but offers immense rewards in return, far from the main tourist hubs.

The Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit

Why go: This route is considered by mountaineers to be one of the most beautiful and challenging alpine treks in the world.

Highlights:

• Jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks like Siula Grande (of “Touching the Void” fame) and Yerupajá.
• Camping beside brilliant turquoise glacial lakes in remote, high-altitude settings.
• A true wilderness experience with very few other trekkers on the trail.

Best for: Serious, experienced, and well-acclimatized trekkers. It is important to note that this is a significant undertaking that requires excellent physical condition and is not a casual hike. For a similar, but less demanding trek, consider the Salkantay Trek.

Choquequirao: The Sacred Sister

Why go: An expansive Inca ruin, often compared in scale and structure to Machu Picchu, but accessible only via a demanding two-day trek each way.

Highlights:

• Experiencing a major Inca archaeological site with a small fraction of the visitors found at Machu Picchu.
• The challenging but rewarding trek into and out of the deep Apurímac Canyon.
• The sense of discovery, as much of the site remains covered by vegetation and is still under excavation.

Best for: Adventurous hikers looking for a significant physical challenge and a more solitary archaeological experience.

Ayacucho

Why go: A beautiful colonial city distinguished by its 33 churches and its vibrant, living artisan traditions.

Highlights:

• Experiencing the famous Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations, a major cultural and religious event known throughout Peru for its solemn processions.
• Visiting the nearby Wari ruins, the former capital of a powerful civilization that preceded the Incas.
• Shopping for high-quality retablos—intricate wooden altar boxes depicting religious and daily life—directly from local artisans.

Best for: Cultural travelers interested in colonial history, religious festivals, and authentic local crafts. For a broader overview of the region, check out our Cusco travel guide.

Southern Peru & Amazon: Deeper Exploration

For those wishing to delve deeper, these southern destinations offer a more intense or isolated version of a classic Peruvian experience, from a truly profound canyon to the remote heart of the jungle.

The Cotahuasi Canyon

Why go: Registered as one of the deepest canyons in the world, Cotahuasi is significantly deeper and far more remote than the more popular Colca Canyon.

Highlights:

• Trekking through isolated, vast landscapes with virtually no other tourists.
• Visiting traditional villages that have seen little change over centuries and maintain a traditional way of life.
• The impressive Sipia Waterfall and nearby natural hot springs.

Best for: Travelers seeking true solitude, rugged trekking, and an authentic, off-grid experience. Please be advised that access to this region is difficult and the infrastructure is basic.

Tambopata Research Center (Deep Amazon)

Why go: This experience takes you beyond the standard jungle lodge by traveling deep into the Tambopata National Reserve, a journey that increases opportunities for significant wildlife sightings.

Highlights:

• Observing the Colorado Macaw Clay Lick, one of the best places in the world to see hundreds of colorful macaws and parrots congregate.
• Higher chances of spotting elusive wildlife such as jaguars, giant river otters, and tapirs due to the remote location.
• An immersive stay in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, guided by naturalist experts.

Best for: Serious wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers who are willing to invest more time and resources for a premier wildlife experience.