Summary
One of the most desirable destinations in South America is replete with stunning fortresses constructed by the Incas, majestic cloud forests, the snow-capped Andes, the arid Atacama Desert, and the verdant Amazon rainforest.
It is unsurprising that there exists a plethora of must-visit locations within its borders. Let us delve into the premier places to explore in Peru:
1. Machu Picchu
The magnificent fortress ensconced among the clouds, a pinnacle of Incan achievement, Machu Picchu consistently inspires awe. It is situated at an impressive elevation of 2,400 meters above the serpent-like Urubamba River, serving as the centerpiece of the renowned Sacred Valley and can only be accessed on foot.
A variety of trekking routes lead up to this UNESCO World Heritage site from lower altitudes, passing through traditional Peruvian mountain villages and presenting breathtaking views of the Andes during the journey.
Ultimately, the destination reveals itself: a stunning assemblage of terraced residences, spiritual temples, and ancient sculptures, dramatically nestled among the cloud forests, exuding a rich pre-Columbian history from every weathered stone.
Even the conquistadors were unable to reach this remarkable site!
2. Lima
Adjacent to the Pacific’s waves, Lima sprawls over the Peruvian coastal plain, combining elements of the modern and the historic in an urban tapestry. It is a city where the elegant remnants of colonial architecture coexist with ancient ruins; where artifacts dating back 500 years are displayed alongside vibrant food markets bustling with South American ceviche and invigorating Pisco sours.
Additionally, a vibrant nightlife scene pulsates throughout the bustling neighborhoods of Miraflores and Barranco, attracting locals and visitors alike every night of the week.
The city’s coastal stretch also features popular beaches to the north and south, filled with surfers at Cabo Blanco, sun worshippers at Vichayito, and cocktail enthusiasts at Los Pocitas.
3. Chan Chan
The ancient entrance to the arid desert expanses of the Moche Valley has emerged as one of the most intriguing pre-Columbian archaeological sites in Peru. It is believed that the vast ruins of the city visible today, seemingly emerging organically from the beige sands, were established in the 9th century AD. Chan Chan served as the center of the powerful Chimor Empire until the conquistadors established their presence in nearby Trujillo during the 1500s. Presently, visitors can explore the remnants of monumental defense walls, numerous temples, courtyards, and advanced irrigation systems.
4. Huacachina
A brief dune ride, ideally by 4X4, from the city of Ica leads to the dazzling oasis of Huacachina, an idyllic village that emerges like a rare gem amidst the shifting sands. This tranquil town is nestled around a small natural lagoon, adorned with slender date palms that sway gracefully in the arid breeze.
Given its stunning location on the rolling ochre-hued dunes of the Ica region, the town has become a favored stop on the Peruvian travel circuit, offering an array of quality backpacker accommodations, boutique hotels, and even a surprising nightlife scene fueled by Pisco sours.
During daylight hours, visitors are encouraged to experience the thrill of sandboarding!
5. Huaraz
Adventurous mountaineers, casual hikers, and nature enthusiasts alike are drawn to the high-altitude town of Huaraz, enveloped by the steep and rugged peaks of the formidable Cordillera Blanca, many of which rise to heights exceeding 6,000 meters above sea level. Frequent seismic activity has caused this town to be rebuilt numerous times throughout its history.
Nevertheless, the true allure lies in the surrounding natural landscapes.
The enchanting Huascaran National Park beckons to the east, boasting unique flora such as the titanka plants, ancient cave art, dinosaur footprints, and the jagged peaks of Tawllirahu.
6. Trujillo
Trujillo stands as the largest urban center in Peru’s Moche Valley.
Once traversed by Spanish conquistadors, it continues to exude a colonial charm, evident in its marble plazas and vibrant churches. The rhythmic clatter of paso horses and the melodious sounds of Spanish conversations fill the palm-lined Plaza de Armas at the city’s heart, while Rococo elegance permeates the Cathedral, and the desert peaks of Moche loom protectively on the horizon.
This picturesque location offers a wonderful opportunity to relax in the northern region while providing convenient access to the unforgettable attractions of Chan Chan and Huaca del Sol located just to the south.
7. Tingo Maria
Tingo Maria is nestled deep within the Andean ridges, flourishing in myriad shades of green due to the humid and fertile conditions of the Amazonian slopes. Once deemed nearly inaccessible, this locale has transformed into a prominent center for coffee cultivation in Peru, with the streets still resonating with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the vitality of weekly farmers’ markets.
However, Tingo Maria is perhaps more widely recognized among international tourists as the access point to the jungle.
Bordering Tingo Maria National Park, this area is home to the intriguing Owl Cave and the soaring summit of Pumarinri.
8. Puno
Easygoing and serene along the shores of Lake Titicaca, Puno offers a delightful experience.
Its cluster of breeze-block residences and dusty streets may not present a picturesque facade.
Nonetheless, the true allure of Puno lies in its connections to the water, rather than the land.
However, boat excursions are exceedingly popular, transporting visitors to Amantani, home to traditional Quechua farmers and stunning pre-Columbian temples, or Uros, with its distinctive reed villages.
Travelers can also venture across to Bolivia and the Isla del Sol, as this is the world’s highest navigable body of water, complemented by a diverse variety of budget-friendly accommodations and hotels available in Puno.
9. Tarapoto
Enveloped by swathes of montane jungle and rich in a variety of palm species, the so-called ‘City of Palms’ serves as an excellent backdrop to experience authentic Peruvian life at the edge of the Andes.
Local restaurants invite guests to savor traditional highland dishes, spice-infused chicken with rice, and refreshing sugarcane juices along the central thoroughfares, while lively evening celebrations abound in Morales, and travel groups embark on adventures to the imposing waterfalls at Ahuashiyacu and Huacamaillo.
Outdoor excursions are always within reach, with the lush Amazonian landscapes and its intricate river systems just to the east.
10. Tarma
Descending through the mountain ranges of the Southern Sierra, Tarma showcases charming Spanish-style bungalows with terracotta roofs, making it one of the lesser-known destinations in the Junin Region.
Despite its proximity to the Inca Trail, the town attracts a modest number of visitors each year.
Those who venture here may enjoy teas infused with local herbs in the cafes, marvel at the vibrant colors during the Festival of Flowers in September, and uncover over 500 years of fascinating history (Tarma was among the first hill stations in the Andes established by the conquistadors). Hiking is also prevalent, with trails winding through the foothills and mountain lakes that connect the Andes to the Amazon.
11. Puerto Maldonado
Positioned at the confluence of the Tambopata and Madre de Dios Rivers, which merge to create a tributary of the mighty Amazon to the east, Puerto Maldonado is often regarded as Peru’s premier jungle city.
Historically accessible primarily by boat, the town has recently integrated into the nation’s expanding road network and now experiences a surge in visitors—hikers and wildlife enthusiasts alike—during peak season.
Travelers come to observe the vibrant macaws and ancient rainforests offered by the Tambopata National Reserve, Amarakaeri Communal Reserve, and Bahuaja-Sonene National Park in the northwest and southeast regions.
For those venturing into these wild terrains, an array of experiences awaits, from cultural interactions with Peruvian tribes to encounters with giant otters and spectacled bears!
12. Arequipa
As the former capital and the second most populated city in Peru with 850,000 residents, Arequipa is a bustling metropolis situated in the southern highlands.
This city is beautifully nestled in the highlands of Huayco Uchumayo, shadowed by three imposing volcanos: the stoic Misti, the snow-blanketed massifs of Pikchu Pikchu, and the towering Chachani, which reaches over 6,000 meters in height.
Arequipa is renowned for its remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site, a core of historic mansions and colonial Spanish churches, each reflecting the local architectural style known as Escuela Arequipeña.
Prominent examples worth exploring include the 16th-century Santa Catalina Monastery, the neoclassical Basilica Cathedral, and the striking Church of the Jesuits, reminiscent of Petra.
13. Urubamba
Situated within the verdant slopes and cloud forests of the often-visited Sacred Valley of the Incas, Urubamba serves as a vital gateway to many of Peru’s most sought-after attractions.
The town features bustling streets filled with everything from upscale hotels to rustic guesthouses, with travelers from the Incan Trail thronging the bars and Plaza de Armas, bustling on auto rickshaws.
This locale serves as a prime base for exploring a range of ancient sites scattered throughout the area, including the heights of Machu Picchu, the agricultural terraces of Tipon, the enigmatic ruins of Choquequirao, and the rich ecotourism opportunities at Chichubamba.
14. Cusco
The former center of Incan authority in the Americas has transformed into a vibrant tourist destination, showcasing everything from magnificent Spanish churches to the remnants of the prior pre-Columbian civilization.
With countless layers of Peruvian history embedded within the city’s dynamic streets, it is clear why so many travelers are drawn to this location.
Visitors should explore the charming whitewashed cottages of Barrio de San Blas, replete with Incan artifacts, and the resplendent Plaza de Armas, characterized by Andalusian arcades and the baroque brilliance of the Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin.
Finally, when departure time arrives, adventurers can venture into Peru’s most iconic hinterlands, characterized by cloud forests and Incan heritage in the Sacred Valley!
15. Nazca
Nazca is chiefly recognized as the gateway for observing the renowned Nazca Lines: ancient geoglyphs etched into the arid landscape on the fringes of the Chilean Atacama.
The tavern atmosphere in this town is dry and dusty, yet overall it remains a charming and walkable locale.
Numerous tour operators compete to provide travelers with aerial tours of the enigmatic UNESCO site, and excursions to Cahuachi and Paredones, along with prehistoric cave systems and hiking trails in the Palpa Valley, also present appealing options for those desiring a blend of adventure and history.
