From the stunning scenery of Machu Picchu to the bustling streets of Lima, Peru is a country that has something for everyone. And with a rich history and culture dating back centuries, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. If you’re planning a trip to Peru, be sure to add these 10 places to your itinerary. From the Amazon rainforest to the sand dunes of Ica, you won’t be disappointed.
Cusco
Cusco is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru. The city is home to many of the country’s most famous historical and cultural sites. Cusco was once the capital of the Inca Empire, and today it is known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. The city is also a gateway to Machu Picchu, one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is perhaps the most famous Inca site in the world. The “Lost City of the Incas” was built in the 15th century and is located on a mountain ridge 7,970 feet above sea level. It is believed that Machu Picchu was built as a royal estate or retreat and was later abandoned after the Spanish Conquest. Today, Machu Picchu is one of Peru’s top tourist attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are two ways to reach Machu Picchu – by train or by hiking the Inca Trail. The train ride from Cusco takes about 3.5 hours and passes through some stunning scenery. The Inca Trail is a four-day hike that ends at Machu Picchu. It is considered one of the best treks in the world and permits are required (and sell out months in advance).
When visiting Machu Picchu, be sure to explore the ruins, including the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Moon, and the Intihuatana stone. A visit to Machu Picchu is not complete without a hike up Huayna Picchu, which offers stunning views of the ruins below.
Lima
Lima, the capital of Peru, is a great place to visit for its colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and delicious food. The city center is home to many historical sites, including the Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral of Lima. For a more modern experience, check out the trendy Miraflores neighborhood with its restaurants, cafes, and shops. And be sure to try some of the local cuisine – ceviche is a must!
Arequipa
If you’re looking for adventure, Arequipa is the place for you. Situated in the southern part of Peru, this city is home to some of the country’s most popular tourist attractions, including Colca Canyon and Volcán Misti.
Arequipa is also a great place to try some of Peru’s traditional cuisine. Be sure to sample some of the city’s famous dishes, such as ceviche and pisco sour.
With its stunning scenery and wealth of things to do, it’s no wonder that Arequipa is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru.
The Amazon Jungle
The Amazon jungle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru. It is home to some of the world’s most biodiverse rainforests and is a great place to see exotic wildlife. Visitors can take boat tours through the jungle, go on safari-style adventures, or stay in eco-lodges.
The Amazon jungle is located in the eastern part of Peru, near the border with Brazil. The best time to visit the jungle is between June and September, when the weather is dryer and there are fewer mosquitoes. October to May is the wet season, when rainfall can cause transportation delays and make hiking trails muddy.
There are many different ways to experience the Amazon jungle. Boat tours are a popular option and offer visitors a chance to see wildlife up close. Safari-style adventures allow visitors to explore the jungle on foot or by jeep, while staying in eco-lodges gives visitors a chance to experience life in the rainforest firsthand.
Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is the largest freshwater lake in South America and the highest navigable lake in the world. It is located in the Andes mountain range between Peru and Bolivia, and its shores are home to several indigenous communities.
The most popular activity on Lake Titicaca is island-hopping. There are over 40 islands dotting the lake, many of which are home to traditional villages and archaeological sites. The two most popular islands to visit are Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna.
Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun) is considered the birthplace of the Inca civilization. On this island, you can visit ruins of ancient temples, hike to scenic viewpoints, and swim in crystal-clear waters.
Isla de la Luna (Island of the Moon) is known for its lunar landscapes and archaeological sites. The highlight of this island is the Temple of the Moon, an ancient ceremonial site with stunning views of Lake Titicaca.
Iquitos
Iquitos is the capital city of the Loreto Region in northeastern Peru. It is also the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon and the fifth most populous city in the country.
Iquitos is one of the busiest ports on the Amazon River and is a gateway to many jungle lodges and tour operators. The city has an airport with regular flights to Lima, as well as boat and river transport options.
There are many things to see and do in Iquitos, including visiting jungle lodges, taking part in Amazon River cruises, going on jungle safaris, exploring traditional markets, and learning about indigenous cultures.
If you’re looking for an adventure-filled vacation destination with plenty of things to see and do, then be sure to add Iquitos to your list!
Nazca
The Nazca Lines are a series of ancient geoglyphs located in the Nazca Desert in southern Peru. The lines were created by the Nazca culture between 500 BCE and 500 CE. The designs include animals, plants, and geometric shapes. They are best seen from the air.
The Nazca Desert is one of the driest places on earth. It receives less than 1 inch (25 mm) of rain per year. The climate is hot and dry with temperatures ranging from 68 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 40 degrees Celsius).
There are several theories about why the Nazca people created the lines. Some believe they were used for religious rituals or ceremonies. Others believe they were used to mark paths or trade routes.
Colca Canyon
Colca Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru. The canyon is located in the Andes Mountains and is home to a number of pre-Inca ruins. The canyon is also home to a number of hot springs, which make it a popular destination for tourists looking to relax.
Manu National Park
1. Manu National Park:
Manu National Park is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. It's home to more than 10,000 species of plants and animals, including several endangered species like the Andean condor and jaguar. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by boat, or even by airplane. There are several lodges and tour operators located near the park, making it easy to plan a trip.