Out of the Beaten Tracks places to visit in Peru
Uncover Peru's hidden gems: Choquequirao, Cordillera Blanca, and more
Essentials
- Northern Peru's Ancient Kingdoms: Discover the "Machu Picchu of the North" at Kuelap, explore the Moche and Chimú civilizations along the Moche Route (Trujillo & Chiclayo), and witness unique cliffside tombs.
- Epic Central Highlands Treks: For seasoned adventurers, the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit offers world-class alpine trekking with stunning glacial lakes and snow-capped peaks.
- Challenging Inca Ruins: Undertake a demanding trek to Choquequirao, an expansive Inca site often compared to Machu Picchu, for a more solitary and rewarding archaeological experience.
- Beyond the Southern Circuit: Northern and Central Peru offer profound journeys into pre-Inca history, dramatic landscapes, and authentic cultural encounters, ideal for returning visitors or those seeking unique adventures.
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.
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.
