Peru is the country of mysterious Inca ruins, dense jungles, impressive coastlines, and of course the high peaks of the Andes with its indigenous villages and colorful markets. Thanks to the enormous diversity of landscapes and climates, there is always something new to discover. You can trek for days through the mountains, wander through colonial cities, get to know the local people, or enjoy the silence of nature. Peru has stolen my heart, and I keep coming back almost every year. In this guide, you’ll find the best things to do and see in Peru, along with tips for activities and must-visit places to go.
Peru is a country I have had the pleasure of visiting dozens of times, for making television documentaries, guiding tours, intensive mountain treks, culinary trips, and meeting local communities. And I still can’t get enough. Here’s my guide to my favorite things to do and see, activities, and places to go in Peru.
Peru is divided into three geographical zones: the coastal region (costa), the highlands (sierra), and the rainforest (selva). The coast consists of dry desert plains and cities like Lima, while the highlands are formed by the Andes, with well-known places like Cuzco and Arequipa. In the east, you find the Amazon region, where you encounter dense jungle and unique biodiversity. To keep this travel guide organized, I have followed the above division, and you will find my tips per region in Peru, with the most beautiful places to go, activities, and things to do and see, including a special section on what to do in the north and an overview of multi-day hikes.
Cuzco is often called the cultural heart of Peru and is one of the most visited cities in Peru. And for a good reason. The city was once the capital of the powerful Inca Empire, something you can still see in the impressive walls and ruins scattered throughout the city. On the Plaza de Armas, you will find colonial churches built on top of Inca foundations. Stroll through the narrow streets of the San Blas district, visit a local market, or explore museums where you learn more about the history.
Cuzco is also the starting point for the world wonder Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and several treks in the area. Cuzco in Peru has countless things to do and see, and you can spend days here marveling at the fascinating former Inca Empire.
Arequipa, also called the White City, is one of the most beautiful places to go in Peru. The city, built with light volcanic stone sillar, lies at the foot of three impressive volcanoes, including the Misti volcano (almost 6,000 meters high) towering above the city. The historic center of Arequipa in Peru is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers countless things to do and see. Think of stately churches, elegant squares, and the colorful Santa Catalina monastery, where you wander through narrow streets and quiet courtyards. There are also excellent restaurants and beautiful shops.
Arequipa is also the starting point for activities in the surrounding area and a trip to the Colca Canyon in Peru, one of the deepest canyons in the world.
Curious? Discover the best things to do and see in my Arequipa Peru travel guide.
Chivay is a small village located on the edge of the Colca Canyon. It is not only the perfect base to spot condors early in the morning at Cruz del Condor but also one of the places in Peru where you can experience the daily life of the local people up close. On the market, there are piles of colorful vegetables and fruits, alongside handmade clothing still woven according to ancient traditions.
In the evening, you can visit a traditional peña for local music and dance, and in the area, you will find natural hot springs – a nice place to relax after a day in the mountains. It’s important to know that you are at 3,600 meters, so taking it easy, in this part of Peru, is essential.
The Colca Canyon, over 3,000 meters deep, is one of the deepest canyons in the world and among the most famous sights in Peru. From the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, you can see condors gliding on thermals, often only a few meters away, an incredibly beautiful view. In addition, you can make beautiful walks along agricultural terraces and small villages where the local population still wears colorful traditional clothing. Tours to the Colca Canyon can be made from Arequipa or Chivay.
If you are adventurous and like walking, you can also do a 2-or 3-day trek through the canyon, which I will discuss later in this article.
The Sacred Valley, is located near Cuzco in Peru and offers countless important Inca sights and things to do. In Pisaq, you walk through the colorful market and visit ruins high above the village. In Ollantaytambo, you wander through narrow streets where the original Inca structure is still clearly visible and see the impressive agricultural terraces built into the mountains. Moray stands out with its circular terraces, believed to have been used for agricultural experiments. In Maras, there are hundreds of salt terraces that are still in use. The Sacred Valley is one of those places in Peru where you should take plenty of time, because there are so many things to do and experience.
Visiting Machu Picchu is undoubtedly one of the most famous things to do in Peru, and a highlight of every trip. This ancient Inca city, located high in the mountains, was rediscovered in 1911 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk among terraces, temples, and squares and imagine how the Incas once lived here. The view over the green mountains and surrounding valleys makes it one of the most beautiful places in Peru.
Machu Picchu can be reached by bus from the village of Aguas Calientes. Daily, several trains depart from Cuzco and the Sacred Valley. Book your time slot for Machu Picchu and the bus on time, as well as the train, since visiting is one of the highlights of Peru and it is always busy. I still recommend staying the night before in the village of Aguas Calientes to slowly immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere. You can also reach Machu Picchu on foot via a multi-day trek, which I will discuss later.
Lake Titicaca, on the border with Bolivia, is the highest navigable lake in the world and among the best things to do in Peru. During a boat trip from Puno, you visit islands such as the floating Uros Islands, made entirely of reeds, and Taquile and Amantani, where residents still live according to centuries-old traditions. You walk through a floating village and learn how the islanders build and maintain their houses, boats, and islands. It is certainly touristy, but the Uros try to keep their traditions and culture alive, while earning some income.
A recommended experience is to spend the night with a local family on one of the Uros islands or on Amantani in Peru. You share meals, hear stories passed down through generations, and get a unique insight into daily life. Don’t forget a small gift, it is greatly appreciated. With a view of the blue waters of the lake and the snow-capped Andes in the distance, this is one of the most beautiful places in Peru for me.
Need tips for staying with a local family around Titicaca, Peru? Feel free to email me, and I’ll be happy to put you in touch.
At almost 5,000 meters, lies the famous Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca. Its colors of red, yellow, and green are created by minerals in the soil. The climb to the top is challenging due to the altitude, but the views are spectacular. Rainbow Mountain has become one of Peru’s most popular attractions, so be prepared for crowds. You can also visit Rainbow Mountain via the Ausangate trek, which I’ll discuss later in this article.
Do you want to visit Rainbow Mountain? You can book your tour here.
Lima is often the starting point of a trip through Peru, but the capital definitely deserves a longer stay. The historic center is full of colonial buildings, churches, and stately squares that take you back to the time of Spanish rule. In the Barranco district, you can stroll past colorful street art, discover small galleries, and find nice bars and cafés. Along the coast, you look out over the ocean while surfers take on the waves. Lima is also the culinary capital of South America, with many cevicherías and top restaurants ranked among the best in the world.
Curious about Lima? In the next travel guide you’ll find my tips for the best things to do and see in Lima Peru.
Pisco, located on the southern coast of Peru, is world-famous for its namesake muscat grape and the iconic Pisco Sour, the national cocktail. In the region around Ica and Pisco, you will find countless bodegas producing this drink. Visiting a winery such as El Catador is highly recommended: you learn all about the traditional production process and can taste wines and piscos, from fruity and soft to strong and dry. And of course, a delicious Pisco Sour should not be missed. Pisco is also a great base for visiting the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Park.
In the middle of the desert near Ica lies Huacachina, an oasis surrounded by high sand dunes. Huacachina is one of the places to go in Peru if you love adventure. It’s the perfect spot in Peru for activities like sandboarding and buggy tours. But even if that’s not your vibe, Huacachina is a nice short stop when traveling in southern Peru. From the small village, you can walk up the sand dunes and watch the sun slowly disappear behind the horizon, a magical sight.
The Nazca Lines are among the most mysterious things to see in Peru. Spread over the vast desert plain are hundreds of geometric shapes, spirals, and drawings of animals like hummingbirds, monkeys, and spiders, only fully visible from the air. To this day, it is a mystery how the Nazca culture created these figures so precisely and on such a large scale, and what their exact meaning was.
The best way to admire the lines is by plane: from Nazca or Ica, you can book a flight where you float above the area for about 30 minutes. Keep in mind that the small plane flies low and tilted for the best view, a spectacular but sometimes shaky experience.
Near Nazca, you will also find the Chauchilla cemetery, an archaeological site where mummies are still visible in open graves. Curious to learn more? In the next travel guide you’ll find my tips for the best things to do and see in Nazca Peru.
South of Lima lies Paracas National Park, a fascinating coastal area where desert landscapes meet the Pacific Ocean. It is the only marine nature reserve in Peru and one of the places that shows a completely different side of the country. Think sand dunes, rugged cliffs, flamingos, and sea lions lounging on rocks in the sun. At the visitor center, you can learn more about the unique flora and fauna of the park, and along the way, stop at viewpoints and formations such as La Catedral, once an iconic rock, now a ruin after an earthquake, but still impressive.
The park is partially open to the public, while large areas are closed to protect the ecosystem. With your own car or a guided jeep tour, you can explore at your own pace.
A boat trip to the Ballestas Islands is an activity not to miss when traveling through southern Peru. The islands, also called the Galápagos of Peru, are home to sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and thousands of seabirds. During the tour, you sail past the Candelabra geoglyph, a huge desert drawing visible from the sea. It’s a unique experience where you see the animals up close and learn more about this special nature area. The trip lasts about 1.5 hours and usually departs in the morning. Bring something warm, as it can get quite cold on the water, especially in winter.
Deep in southern Peru’s Amazon lies Tambopata, one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. With Rainforest Expeditions, you can discover this unique ecosystem. Travel by boat along the river, walk through the rainforest with experienced guides, spot colorful macaws at clay lickings, see caimans along the banks, while staying in luxury lodges in the jungle, fully immersed in nature. Rainforest Expeditions also serves as a research center. A visit to Tambopata is an unforgettable experience.
Rainforest Expeditions has three unique lodges and offers countless activities and tours in Tambopata Peru. Interested in a stay in this part of Peru? Check availability and current prices here: Tambopata Research Center, Posada Amazonas and Refugio Amazonas. Looking for special prices and offers? Email me at contact@passporttheworld.com.
Iquitos, located in northern Peru, is the largest city in the world without a road connection and accessible only by plane or boat. This Amazon metropolis is the perfect base for scenic jungle treks and multi-day river cruises through the heart of the rainforest. From Iquitos, you can sail along tributaries of the Amazon, offering a good chance of seeing countless animals, with the pink dolphin being an absolute highlight. Iquitos itself is also worth a visit, a vibrant city with colorful markets and bustling ports, where there’s always something going on.
If you’re wondering what to do in northern Peru, start with Huaraz. This mountain town, known as the trekking capital of Peru, is the base for exploring the Cordillera Blanca, a mountain range full of glaciers, high peaks, and lakes, surrounded by snow-capped summits.
From short day hikes to challenging multi-day treks, there are many options in this part of Peru. Day trips, like to Laguna 69, take 5–7 hours, and there is the Santa Cruz Trek, a multi-day route through spectacular landscapes. Not into hiking? Huaraz also has sights like the Museo de Ancash, and after a day of activities, you can relax in the Monterrey hot springs.
In northern Peru, near Chachapoyas, lies the Gocta Waterfall. At 771 meters, it’s one of the highest waterfalls in the world. You can reach the waterfall via a hike that starts in the village of Cocachimba and takes about 2.5 hours (one way), depending on your pace. The well-marked trail leads you through green valleys, along rivers, and with views of the surrounding mountains. You can do the hike on foot or by horseback, which can be arranged locally. Make sure you wear good shoes, as the path can be slippery, especially during the rainy season.
For a completely different side of Peru, head to Mancora in the north, where you’ll find long beaches and a relaxed surf culture. The coastal town is known for its sunny weather and is one of the best places in Peru to escape the city and mountains and relax by the sea. You can surf, eat fresh fish, or just relax in a hammock.
Are you intetested in history and archaeology? On the coast near Trujillo lies Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the world. This former Chimú capital consists of palaces, temples, and walls with geometric patterns. Walking through Chan Chan gives a good impression of the city’s past. The complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful things to do in northern Peru. The museum at the entrance explains the role of this kingdom in the coastal history.
Huanchaco, near Trujillo on the northern coast, is known as one of the best surf spots in Peru. Its relaxed vibe and long waves attract enthusiasts from around the world. Centuries ago, the Moche and Chimú used reed boats called caballitos de totora for fishing and even surfing. These unique boats are still seen along the coast and sometimes in action. Besides surfing, you can enjoy fresh ceviche in small restaurants, walk along the pier at sunset, and visit local markets.
The Inca Trail is perhaps the most famous hiking route in South America. During this four-day trek in Peru, you sleep in tents and follow ancient paths through cloud forests and mountain landscapes, passing sites that take you back to the time of the Incas. The highlight is arriving at the Sun Gate, where Machu Picchu first appears before your eyes, a moment you’ll never forget.
In my opinion, hiking the Inca Trail is one of the best things to do if you truly want to experience Machu Picchu in Peru and have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Yes, it’s challenging due to the altitude, so preparation is essential. Also, book your trek months in advance because of its popularity.
If you have less time, the Lares Trek is a 3-4 day alternative to reach Machu Picchu in Peru. The trek starts in the village of Lares, north of Cuzco, and ends with a train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Along the way, you walk through mountain villages, cross high Andean passes, visit hot springs, enjoy stunning views, and sleep in tents or lodges along the way.
The Salkantay Trek is another popular alternative to the Inca Trail, taking 4 to 5 days from the village of Mollepata to Machu Picchu. The route passes through the Andes with landscapes of snow-capped peaks, green valleys, jungle, and glacier lakes like the bright blue Humantay Lake. The highest point is the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters, a physical challenge but with breathtaking views. Accommodation is in tents or lodges, and the trek ends in Aguas Calientes, from where you visit Machu Picchu.
The Choquequirao Trek is a multi-day hike in Peru leading to the Inca city of Choquequirao, often called the “forgotten sister of Machu Picchu.” The trek lasts 4 to 5 days, starting in Capuliyoc, about 4 hours from Cuzco. The route ends at the same point unless you extend it to Machu Picchu, which takes 8 to 9 days.
You walk through deep canyons, tropical cloud forests, and high mountain passes with spectacular views of the Apurímac River and surrounding peaks, while spending the night in tents along the way. The highlight is a visit to the largely jungle-covered ruins of Choquequirao. The trek is demanding, with steep ascents and descents, so proper preparation is key. If you’ve done the Inca Trail, this is a fantastic next adventure and one of the things to do and to put on your Peru bucketlist.
The Colca Canyon is impressive to visit and hike. During a multi-day trek, you descend into the canyon and stay in small villages like Llahuar, Sangalle, or San Juan de Chuccho. You can choose a 2- or 3-day trek. Along the way, you pass agricultural terraces and see how local people have lived here for centuries. The hike starts near Cabanaconde, the gateway to Colca Canyon. Keep in mind that the trails are challenging, due to the 3,300-meter altitude and the return climb. Take your time and acclimatize in Arequipa first.
The Ausangate Trek is a multi-day journey through the Peruvian Andes, south of Cuzco. The route starts in Tinki and ends in Pacchanta, taking 5 to 6 days. Along the way, you cross high mountain passes (sometimes above 5,000 meters), pass glacier lakes, hot springs, valleys, and traditional Quechua communities. You also pass Ausangate mountain, sacred to locals, and can take a detour to popular places to go, including Rainbow Mountain. It is physically challenging but highly rewarding.
Ceviche is Peru’s national dish and a must-try. The classic version consists of raw fish, often sea bass, marinated in lime juice with red onion, chili, salt, and pepper. The result is fresh, spicy, and delicious. Variations exist throughout the country, making tasting ceviche one of the best things to do in Peru.
Lima is often called the culinary capital of South America, and for a good reason. One highlight is the Nikkei cuisine, a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cooking techniques and flavors, born from Japanese immigration to Peru in the early 20th century. Nikkei is famous for combining fresh fish, citrus, umami, and local ingredients like corn, potatoes, and chili.
Besides Nikkei, Lima also offers Criollo (traditional Peruvian cuisine), Chifa (Peruvian-Chinese), Amazonian dishes, and world-class fine dining. Famous restaurants like Central, Maido, and Astrid y Gastón are internationally recognized, but smaller eateries also serve creative dishes. Lima is the place to experience these flavors at their finest. Make reservations in advance, as top restaurants book months ahead.
If you’re in Peru in June, make sure to include Inti Raymi in your itinerary. Inti Raymi is the ancient Inca winter solstice festival, celebrated on June 24 in Cuzco. Thousands of actors in traditional costumes relieve ancient Inca rituals honoring the sun god Inti, culminating in a grand ceremony at the Sacsayhuamán ruins. It is a unique cultural experience with parades, dance, music, and spiritual rituals. and a highlight when you are visiting Peru at this time. Book early, as accommodations and tickets sell out quickly.
Lima has one main international airport: New Jorge Chávez International Airport. Chances are that this is where you’ll arrive, as it’s the largest airport and handles many international flights. The easiest way to find affordable flights is through Scyscanner. And once you land, there’s nothing better than having someone pick you up, especially after a long journey. I always book my airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.
Peru is a large country with different regions and many things to do. If you want to see a lot in a short amount of time, you will have to book a few domestic flights, especially if you are traveling to the Amazon. There are also good public transportation options and shuttle services that can be easily found and booked through Bookaway. It is also easy to rent a car at certain places, especially along the coast. Renting a car is a great way to be independent and be free to stop wherever you want. Just be sure to check the current safety conditions beforehand.
Planning a trip to Peru or just starting your research? In the next travel guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about traveling to Peru, including practical tips, essential travel info, and inspiration for where to go and what to see. Hopefully, my articles will help you get the most out of your trip, or convince you to add Peru to your travel bucket list.
Let me take you on a further journey along the most beautiful destinations and attractions in Peru in the next articles.
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Are you interested in the world? Do you want to learn more about a country and its culture? Let me take you on a journey with Passport the World.
As a travel reporter, producer and tour guide, I have been traveling around the world for the last 20 years, looking for the most scenic places and stories that are worth sharing. In Passport the World, I am guiding you along scenic and cultural places, cities, art, viewpoints, hiking trails and unique experiences. To help you get the most out of your travels or to just get to know a country and culture better!
Are you interested in the world? Do you want to learn more about a country and its culture? Let me take you on a journey with Passport the World.
As a travel reporter, producer and tour guide, I have been traveling around the world for the last 20 years, looking for the most scenic places and stories that are worth sharing. In Passport the World, I am guiding you along scenic and cultural places, cities, art, viewpoints, hiking trails and unique experiences. To help you get the most out of your travels or to just get to know a country and culture better!
