The Best Things To See And Do In Peru

Peru is a country of great biodiversity and rich cultural history. These two characteristics make it one of the world’s most desirable tourist destinations. From Andean mountains and Inca ruins to Amazon jungle and colonial architecture, these are the best places to go in Peru.

Machu Picchu

There isn’t enough to say about the Inca ruins in the sky. Surrounded by towering peaks, with its lush green terraces, the sights at Machu Picchu are unimaginable. Even if you can only go for a day, take the train or bus up to the famous ruins and discover its beauty and mystery for yourself.

Floating Reed Islands in Lake Titicaca

Inca Trail

Machu Picchu is so spectacular that it made the list twice. This time, however, arrive at the Inca ruins via the famous Inca trail. While its popularity has exploded – meaning more crowds – the Inca trail is still a must-do. There may be other trails in Peru, but none can match the beauty of this one. Hike the four- or five-day journey along the ancient road, winding your way around mountains and into the sky, ending at Machu Picchu.

Arequipa

Arequipa is a beautiful colonial town in the south of Peru, and is Peru’s second-largest metropolis. Stunning colonial architecture and a volcano for a backdrop make this city a must-see while you are in Peru.

Parque Nacional Manu

This is a perfect destination for you to have the Amazonian jungle adventure you’ve always wanted. It’s Peru’s best-protected national park, and you can catch glimpses of exotic jungle animals such as the pink dolphin and the jaguar – and of course monkeys. It’s an adventurer’s dream.

Sand Dune Surfing

After you’ve practiced surfing in the water, take your newfound skills to the sand. You won’t get tossed around by a rogue wave, but you might fall down a dune or two – at least it’s only sand! Three hours south of Lima lies the small desert oasis town of Huacachina, surrounded by sand dunes.

Gorge Out in Lima

Lima has become the unofficial gastronomic capital of South America. The city boasts world-renowned chefs such as Gastón Acurio and Virgilio Martínez, who recently received the Chef’s Choice Award, a title that suggest he is the best chef in the world. Lima is also the only city to have two restaurants ranking in the top 10 of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants: Central Restaurante and Maido. When in Lima, do set aside some money to dine at one of the city’s world-class restaurants.

Central Restaurante, Santa Isabel 376 Miraflores Lima, Peru, +51 12416721

Maido, Calle San Martin 399, Miraflores 15074, Peru , +51 14462512

Nasca Lines

Take a plane ride to view the inscrutable Nasca Lines from above, so that you can get a clear look at the shapes carved in the desert. These lines in the Peruvian desert have baffled experts and inspired a whole gamut of explanations from the sensible to the out-there. Experience the wonder and mystery for yourself and you’ll be able to make your own mind up.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.