Top Things to Do in Peru: Unforgettable Adventures from Machu Picchu to the Amazon
Discover ancient wonders, epic landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse cultures across Peru with this comprehensive guide.
Peru is a land where mystical ancient civilizations meet dramatic landscapes, thriving cities, and deep traditions. From the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu to the remote Amazonian jungle, every traveler finds their own adventure in this endlessly diverse country. Whether you’re drawn to historical wonders, epic treks, colorful markets, or culinary treats, Peru promises memories to last a lifetime. This guide unveils the most essential things to do in Peru, covering can’t-miss highlights across regions as well as lesser-known gems. Prepare to be inspired for your own Peruvian journey.
1. Marvel at Machu Picchu: The Lost City of the Incas
Machu Picchu remains Peru’s crown jewel and is renowned as one of the most spectacular archaeological sites on Earth. Perched high on a mountain ridge among lush cloud forests, this 15th-century Incan citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a bucket-list highlight for all visitors.
- Ways to visit: Arrive via train to Aguas Calientes and take a bus up, or hike one of several multi-day trails such as the classic Inca Trail, the challenging Salkantay Trek, or the remote Lares Trek.
- Essential tips: Book entry tickets and train journeys well in advance, especially during high season (May–September). Guided tours enrich the experience by revealing the site’s history, astronomy, and architecture.
- Don’t miss: Climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views (limited permits available).
Machu Picchu dazzles visitors with its enigmatic stonework, terraced slopes, ceremonial sites, and breathtaking mountain backdrops. Early mornings offer mist-shrouded magic, while afternoon sun reveals the rich greens of the surrounding jungle.
2. Explore the Sacred Valley: Ancient Sites and Andean Culture
Just outside Cusco lies the lush Sacred Valley, once the agricultural heartland of the Inca Empire. The valley is dotted with well-preserved ruins, traditional Quechua villages, bustling markets, and mountain vistas.
- Pisac: Famous for its colorful market and hillside Inca terraces.
- Ollantaytambo: Boasts a towering fortress, charming cobblestone streets, and is the launch point for trains to Machu Picchu.
- Chinchero: Known for traditional textile weaving and colonial churches built atop Incan stone walls.
- Moray & Maras: Visit the impressive Inca agricultural laboratory of Moray and the photogenic salt flats of Maras.
The Sacred Valley is a perfect spot to acclimate to the altitude, dive into local traditions, and soak up dramatic scenery between Cusco and Machu Picchu.
3. Discover Cusco: The Historic Heart of the Andes
Cusco once served as the Inca Empire’s vibrant capital and today is a captivating blend of Incan and Spanish colonial heritage. UNESCO-listed streets lead to grand plazas, ornate churches, lively markets, and remnants of ancient walls.
- Coricancha: The Inca Temple of the Sun, overlaid with a Spanish church.
- Plaza de Armas: Flanked by grand cathedrals and a focal point for festivals and parades.
- Sacsayhuamán: This colossal Incan fortress overlooks the city and provides a spectacular picnic spot.
- San Pedro Market: A bustling maze of vendors selling local produce, textiles, and street food.
Cusco’s infectious energy and fusion of indigenous and colonial culture make it a favorite among travelers. Allow a few days here to explore the city’s museums, artisan shops, and nightlife before heading deeper into the Andes.
4. Sail Lake Titicaca: Floating Islands and Living Traditions
Straddling the Peru-Bolivia border, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world at 3,812 meters. According to Andean mythology, it is the cradle of the Inca civilization. The lake is famed for its serene blue waters, dramatic high-altitude landscapes, and unique communities.
- Uros Floating Islands: Meet the Uros people, who build and maintain islands entirely from totora reeds.
- Taquile & Amantaní: These natural islands are renowned for weaving traditions and homestay experiences that offer an insight into local life.
Visitors can take guided boat tours from Puno, meet local artisans, and sample freshly caught trout. Wrap up warmly: it gets chilly when the sun dips behind the mountains.
5. Wander Lima: Culinary Capital and Colonial Heritage
Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital city, sprawls along the Pacific coast and is celebrated for its dynamic blend of colonial history, cutting-edge gastronomy, and seaside attractions.
- Historic Center: Explore grand colonial buildings, beautiful plazas, and Baroque churches, including the ornate Monasterio de San Francisco with its catacombs.
- Barranco: Lima’s bohemian quarter, known for colorful street art, galleries, and nightlife.
- Miraflores: Trendy district with seaside parks, the seafront Larcomar mall, and elevated views for paragliding.
- Huaca Pucllana: A pre-Inca mud-brick pyramid that hosts guided tours and a renowned restaurant with views of the illuminated ruins.
- Magic Water Circuit: A spectacular nighttime display of illuminated fountains at Parque de la Reserva, perfect for families.
Lima is a world-class destination for food lovers—don’t miss sampling ceviche, anticuchos, or dining at Michelin-starred restaurants. The city offers a perfect introduction to Peru’s contemporary pulse and historical roots.
6. Trek to Choquequirao: The Remote Sister of Machu Picchu
Adventurous travelers can embark on a challenging multi-day trek to Choquequirao, often dubbed the “lost city” and Machu Picchu’s lesser-visited sibling. Reached only on foot, this spectacular Incan citadel is surrounded by cloud forests and offers grand terraces, temples, and solitude far from the crowds.
- Duration: 4-5 days return from the trailhead at Cachora.
- Highlights: Majestic mountain scenery, rich birdlife, and atmospheric ruins where you’ll often have the site to yourself.
Choquequirao rewards trekkers with a sense of exploration and discovery amid epic Andean vistas—ideal for those wanting an alternative to the busy Inca Trail.
7. Experience the Amazon Rainforest: Nature’s Greatest Sanctuary
The remote Peruvian Amazon is a living wonder, teeming with unmatched biodiversity. Two main gateways—Puerto Maldonado and Iquitos—provide access to protected reserves where travelers can discover rare wildlife, indigenous cultures, and adventurous activities.
- Manu National Park: An immense UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vibrant birdlife, jaguars, giant river otters, and Amazonian flora. Entry is by guided tour only, often beginning in Cusco.
- Tambopata National Reserve: Near Puerto Maldonado, home to macaws, caimans, monkeys, and giant lilies along winding rivers.
- Lodges & Excursions: Eco-lodges, canopy walks, river cruises, and night safaris offer immersive jungle experiences.
Visiting the Amazon allows travelers to witness the world’s greatest reservoir of life up close, whether on boat rides, hiking jungle trails, or just listening to the symphony of nature from your hammock.
8. Journey Through Arequipa: The White City and Colca Canyon
Arequipa is renowned for its striking colonial architecture, grand white sillar stone churches, and vibrant culinary culture. Dominated by the snowcapped Misti Volcano, this UNESCO-listed city is a charming blend of history and modernity.
- Plaza de Armas: Stunning cathedral square surrounded by elegant arcades.
- Santa Catalina Monastery: A visually dazzling “city within a city” painted in ochre, blue, and white.
- Picanterías: Sample local specialties such as rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy pepper) and chupe de camarones (shrimp chowder).
- Colca Canyon: A short trip away is one of the world’s deepest canyons, perfect for trekking and condor-watching.
- Volcano Misti: Adventurers can climb the volcano over two days for unrivaled views of Arequipa and its surrounds.
Arequipa’s inviting squares, historic sites, and nearby natural wonders ensure a rewarding visit for culture and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
9. Puzzle Over the Nazca Lines: Mysterious Desert Geoglyphs
The Nazca Lines are giant geoglyphs etched into the desert sands over 1,500 years ago, depicting animals, plants, and enigmatic geometric shapes visible only from above. Their purpose remains one of archaeology’s most intriguing mysteries.
- How to see them: Board a light aircraft flight for the best aerial views, or visit viewing towers for a taste of the designs.
- Getting there: Nazca lies 7 hours south of Lima by bus; consider spending a night in town to combine the Lines with local museums.
The Nazca Lines are a fascinating side trip for those keen to explore Peru’s ancient enigmas and arid landscapes.
10. Hike Huaraz and the Cordillera Blanca: A Paradise for Trekking and Climbing
Huaraz sits at the foot of the snowcapped Cordillera Blanca, often referred to as the Switzerland of South America. This region offers world-class trekking, mountaineering, and adventure sports.
- Highlights: Multi-day treks such as the Santa Cruz trek, summit attempts on Nevado Alpamayo, and stunning day hikes to Laguna 69 and Laguna Parón.
- Flora and Fauna: The high Andes are home to unique wildlife and rare plants, such as the giant Puya Raimondi.
Huaraz caters to adventure seekers and serves as a gateway to Peru’s greatest natural playground for hiking, climbing, and glacier viewing.
11. Discover Off-the-Beaten-Path Treasures
- Kuélap: A massive pre-Incan walled city in northern Peru, often called the “Machu Picchu of the North,” accessible via cable car or a challenging hike. Explore ancient round stone houses, intricate reliefs, and panoramic mountain vistas.
- Gocta Falls & Yumbilla Falls: Among the world’s tallest waterfalls, these remote cascades offer spectacular hikes and untouched cloud forest scenery.
- Caral: The oldest known city in the Americas, with striking pyramids and ceremonial structures in a serene desert setting.
These sites are perfect for history aficionados and adventurers looking for less-traveled paths.
12. Immerse in Peruvian Food and Culture
Peru’s multicultural heritage, from Inca and Quechua to Spanish, African and Asian influences, has shaped one of the world’s most respected culinary scenes and vibrant festivals.
- Culinary Experiences: Try ceviche, lomo saltado (stir-fried beef), causa (potato terrine), and the unique Amazonian and Andean cuisines.
- Markets: Roam colorful food and craft markets in Cusco, Arequipa, and Lima, sampling tropical fruits, local cheeses, and handmade textiles.
- Festivals: Major festivals include Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) in Cusco and Semana Santa (Holy Week) throughout the Andes, both filled with parades, music, and traditional costumes.
- Textiles and Handicrafts: Visit villages like Chinchero or Pisac for authentic weaving demonstrations and exquisite souvenirs.
Peru’s food and culture are deeply tied to its history and landscapes, promising unforgettable tastes and immersive experiences at every turn.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When is the best time to visit Peru for most activities?
A: The dry season (May to September) is ideal for hiking and visiting highland areas like Machu Picchu, Cusco, Arequipa, and Lake Titicaca. For jungle adventures, visit from June to August for drier weather in the Amazon.
Q: Do I need to acclimatize to high altitude in Peru?
A: Yes. Many top destinations (Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, Huaraz) lie above 2,500m. Plan your itinerary to allow for gradual ascent, drink plenty of water, and consider spending your first day in the region resting.
Q: Is it safe to travel in Peru?
A: Most visits to Peru are trouble-free. Take standard precautions in cities (avoid displaying valuables, use registered taxis), and check local health & safety guidance for remote regions. Travelling with reputable operators is recommended for jungle and mountain adventures.
Q: Can I visit Machu Picchu without a guide?
A: As of recent years, entry to Machu Picchu requires booking tickets for specific entry times, and having a certified guide is mandatory for the first entry. Book in advance, especially for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climbs.
Q: What are Peru’s top local dishes I shouldn’t miss?
A: Classic dishes include ceviche, lomo saltado, aji de gallina, rocoto relleno, and Amazonian specialties like juanes. Don’t forget to try Pisco Sour, Peru’s iconic cocktail.
