Top 15 Unforgettable Tours of Peru

Peru is renowned for its magnificent and meticulously preserved archaeological sites, establishing itself as a prime destination for travelers intrigued by exotic cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich histories.

Machu Picchu stands out as the nation’s historic centerpiece and is among the New World’s Seven Wonders.

With numerous cities, towns, and rural locales surrounding most popular tourist attractions, visitors will not find a shortage of activities and sights to explore.

In addition to the essential tourist destinations, consider venturing off the usual paths to engage with locals for a genuinely distinctive cultural experience.

1. Full-Day Tour of Machu Picchu from Cusco

Machu Picchu represents a historic treasure of the Americas and warrants a prominent position in your travel itinerary.

This comprehensive guided tour begins with a morning train journey from Cusco to Aguas Caliente. Following this, you will ascend to the mountaintop Inca site that eluded awareness for centuries and was only recently uncovered.

For those willing to hike Huayna Picchu, the exertion will be justly compensated with breathtaking views.

This tour encompasses an English-speaking guide, round-trip transportation, and entrance fees; however, you will be responsible for purchasing your own food and beverages.

2. Full-Day Tour of Lake Titicaca, Uros, and Taquile

Lake Titicaca holds the title of the highest navigable lake globally. The area is adorned with awe-inspiring mountains, a stunning sky, and vibrant Peruvian villages.

This two-hour boat excursion includes visits to the islands of Uros and Taquile, inhabited by a community that has relied on this high-altitude lake for generations.

You will gain profound insights into local living and dietary customs, with ample opportunities for stretching your legs, sampling traditional cuisine, and exploring some ancient archaeological sites nearby.

3. 2-Day Colca Canyon Tour with Tickets and Lunch from Arequipa

This two-day excursion to Colca Canyon initiates in Arequipa, allowing you to observe Peru’s uniquely indigenous wildlife, such as llamas and alpacas, alongside the area’s famed scenery.

Transportation to and from Arequipa is provided; you will visit all essential locations including Chachani, the Colca River, and the stunning mountainside terraces.

Moreover, this itinerary offers a close experience with various small towns and villages along the route. Enjoy short hiking opportunities and sample traditional dishes as part of the tour.

4. Rainbow Mountain Adventure from Cusco

This tour commences at an early hour of 4:00 AM, making it suitable only for those who rise early and are not prone to hitting the snooze button.

On your journey to Rainbow Mountain, you will stop at a rural community for a traditional Peruvian breakfast before proceeding to your high-altitude destination, which is nearly 17,000 feet above sea level.

The region’s unique rainbow-colored layers in the sedimentary rock will astonish you, seemingly defying natural explanation.

The duration required for the multi-hour hike to the mountain will depend on your fitness level and environmental conditions, so do not feel pressured to overexert yourself.

5. Piranha Fishing and Bird Watching From Puerto Maldonado

This guided tour equips you with everything necessary to catch piranhas while immersing yourself in the area’s remarkable natural beauty.

Upon pickup from your hotel in Puerto Maldonado, you will travel a short distance to a rural river, where your fishing attempts will take place amidst breathtaking scenery and the chance to observe various unique bird species.

This engaging tour also provides glimpses of rural life and the daily activities of local residents.

Previous participants praised the views of the parrots feeding along the riverbanks.

6. Moray and Salt Mines Quad Bike Tour from Cusco

There is nothing quite as invigorating as traversing an exotic landscape on a quad bike.

Post-hotel pickup in Cusco, you will journey into Peru’s Sacred Valley, enjoying splendid views of the area along the way.

The route will take you through local villages and the town of Maras, adorned with remarkable colonial architecture.

The archaeological site at Moray provides captivating insights into the lifestyles of the Incas, complemented by visits to the nearby actively used salt mines.

It is worth noting that entrance fees to the Salt Mines and archaeological sites are additional costs not included in the tour package.

7. Humantay Lake Day Trek from Cusco

Although this tour also begins early in the morning, your efforts will pay off as you approach the stunning Humantay Lake.

The journey involves passing through rural communities and the scenic Apurimac River Valley, with a brief stop for refreshments en route.

The hike to the lake will take approximately 1.5 hours before you are met with brilliantly blue waters that lie nearly 14,000 feet above sea level.

Majestic landscapes and remnants of Incan culture from the local populace will surround you.

After a buffet-style lunch in Mollepata, your return trip to Cusco will conclude around 6:00 PM.

8. Magic Water and Fantasy Fountain Show in Lima

The Magic Water Circuit in Parque de la Reserva has earned recognition as the world’s largest public fountain according to global records, a title merited by its impressive display.

Featuring more than 10 remarkable fountains, the park presents a magical amalgamation of music, illumination, and laser effects that will mesmerize visitors during this guided three-hour tour.

The sunset period is the most opportune time to appreciate this spectacle; arriving early affords the chance to engage in some interactive elements within the park, loved especially by younger visitors.

9. Full Day Tour of Machu Picchu by Train from Cusco

Traveling through the picturesque Peruvian Andes aboard a comfort-oriented train will feel like a journey back in time.

This tour includes comprehensive transportation, providing guests with unforgettable views of the historic Machu Picchu and the lowland Amazon watershed.

Your expedition from Aguas Calientes to the mountaintop archaeological site will commence with insights into the fascinating history of this Incan marvel through your knowledgeable guide.

The tour sets off at 5:00 AM, setting the stage for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that demands an early night beforehand.

10. Private Hiking Tour to Humantay Lagoon

This comprehensive 12-hour guided expedition provides an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Humantay Lagoon.

The drive to the hiking starting point spans over three hours, thus necessitating an early commencement; however, the scenery encountered en route will be awe-inspiring.

Opportunities to enjoy breakfast before your hike will await you, followed by a moderate trek lasting approximately 1.5 hours to reach the lagoon, despite the distance and elevated altitude.

Proper footwear and multiple layers of clothing are advisable due to rapidly changing weather at such high elevations.

11. Half-Day Zip-line Trip from Cusco

Boasting a breathtaking backdrop of mountains and valleys, Peru is the ideal location for zip-lining experiences.

Offering a safe yet exhilarating way to see the sights, this half-day excursion from Cusco includes stops at an archaeological site close to Racchi.

The unobstructed vistas of the Sacred Valley and noscending Andes Mountains will leave you in awe; the tour itinerary allows for additional stops should participants express interest.

Total duration of the tour is around six hours. Keep in mind, meals are not included, so bringing some cash is advisable.

12. Night Tour of Cusco with Pisco Sour Lessons and Dinner

The city of Cusco comes alive after dark, its vibrant atmosphere is best appreciated with a local guide acquainted with the must-see venues.

Expect to sample a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes, complemented by tasting the national beverage of Peru—the refreshing Pisco Sour.

The tour will also highlight some of the city’s fascinating sites, with your guide sharing compelling historical insights relevant to each location.

A notable component of this journey includes a visit to San Blas, a neighborhood renowned for its artisans, who celebrate their crafts with pride.

13. Half-Day Cusco City and Inca Sites Tour

Cusco is replete with highly significant structures, many of which are Catholic churches and grand cathedrals dating back to the colonial period.

Highlights of this tour include visiting the Incan Temple of the Sun at Coricancha while delving into the intense historical conflicts that occurred between indigenous populations and Catholic missionaries.

Your enthusiastic guide will offer valuable insights into the area’s cultural and historical landmarks, culminating at the Incan sites of Sacsayhuaman and the Qenko ruins—further national treasures of Peru.

The itinerary allows for both guided and free exploration, with park entrance fees covered; however, meals and drinks are at your own expense.

14. Half-Day Private Tour of Lima

This all-encompassing 3.5-hour tour of Lima is an excellent method for absorbing the city’s rich cultural and historical essence in a condensed timeframe.

The program incorporates visits to several UNESCO World Heritage sites located within close proximity to the downtown district.

Upon hotel pickup, your first stop will be the Miraflores District, renowned for its lush parks and picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean.

Moreover, you will explore the captivating archaeological site at Huaca Pucllana, along with remarkable well-preserved examples of colonial architecture, including Government and Municipal Palaces.

15. Full-Day Sacred Valley Tour with Tickets and Lunch

The Sacred Valley of Peru is an essential inclusion in your itinerary during your Peruvian journey. This full-day excursion with lunch ensures that you won’t miss any highlights.

Recognized as the heart of the Incan civilization, the sites within the Sacred Valley and Macchu Pichu are likely to leave a lasting impression.

Additionally, the tour will feature a visit to the vibrant Písac Market, the archaeological site at Ollantaytambo, and opportunities to observe local artisans engaged in traditional textile crafts using methods reminiscent of their Incan ancestors.

Your adventure will encompass your guide, transportation, lunch, and all entry fees, making it a comprehensive and convenient option.