Top 10 Things to See and Do Along Peru's South Coast

Although seemingly little more than a barren desert at first glance, this arid region spanning between the southern Peruvian Andes and the Pacific Ocean is home to a surprising number of attractions. From a lush oasis to long-lost relics, here are the best things to see and do in Peru’s southern coastal region.
Catch some sun in Mollendo
When the sun is shining (December to February), this picturesque beach town becomes a hit with sun-seeking holidaymakers from Arequipa and elsewhere in Peru. Well away from the well-trodden gringo trail, very few foreigners find themselves here which makes for an entirely authentic Peruvian seaside experience.
A post shared by Instagramers Arequipa (@igersarequipa) on Dec 10, 2017 at 10:03am PST

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1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great priceAfrica
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.Marvel at the architecture of Arequipa
A little further inland lies one of South America’s true colonial gems, an architectural masterpiece which many consider the most spectacular in Peru.

Trek the Colca Canyon
Those heading to Arequipa would be mad to miss Colca, a panoramic canyon dotted with traditional Inca villages where giant condors glide effortlessly overhead. Like so many other natural wonders, the best way to appreciate such a marvel is on foot.

Pay homage to the dead
Probably the region’s most grisly attraction, the Chauchilla Cemetery is home to vast collection of mummified pre-Inca remains, many of which remain excavated in full public view. Movie buffs may recognize the site from Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull.

Drink some pisco
The age-old debate continues to rage between Chile and Peru as to who exactly came up with this tangy grape flavored spirit. Each country claims it as their own, but few places are as passionate about pisco as Ica, Peru’s premier grape growing region. A multitude of vineyards means travelers can sample some top-shelf product straight from the source.

Get a history fix in the Casa-Hacienda San José
Situated just outside the small coastal city of Chincha, this grand colonial estate provides a fascinating if somewhat unsettling insight into the history of the African slave trade in Peru. Among the many historical remnants on display are a series of spooky catacombs which visitors can explore by candlelight.
A post shared by Anni Lorelli (@alorelli68) on Nov 18, 2017 at 7:50am PST
Go sandboarding in Huacachina
An essential item on any thrill-seeking backpacker’s bucket list, sandboarding down the towering sand dunes that surround the hidden oasis town of Huacachina is every bit as epic as it sounds.

Spot some wildlife at the Islas Ballestas
Colloquially referred to as ‘the poor man’s Galapagos’, these wildlife-rich islands off the coast of Paracas offer an extraordinary naturalist experience for a fraction of the cost of their more famous Ecuadorian cousin.

Uncover the mystery of the Nazca Lines
An age-old puzzle of incredible proportions, scientists are still debating how and why these strange markings in the desert were made. Seeing them for yourself from the air is a truly special experience, while a museum down below offers some interesting theories on how the world-famous Nazca Lines came to be.

Enjoy everything Lima has to offer
This massive metropolis of some 10 million inhabitants has everything you would expect from a city of its size, including an unrivaled fine dining scene, electric nightlife and an abundance of historical attractions that keep travelers lingering longer than expected.

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