Top 10 Places to Visit in Peru
Peru is one of the most visited countries in all of South America, and for very good reason. Peru’s Inca ruins, UNESCO sites, and breathtaking landscapes all vie for a deserved place on your travel bucket list.
In this blog, we'll dive into the top 10 places to visit in Peru. While most travelers know about Peru’s Wonder of the World - the famous Machu Picchu Ruins, this diverse country has plenty more to offer besides.
Peru has towering snow-capped mountains, vibrant metropolitan cities, pristine Amazon Rainforest, world-famous cuisine, desert mysteries, and colorful culture to discover.
So, get your tickets booked, pack your bags, and let’s discover the must-see Peruvian destinations that will make your trip truly unforgettable!
Keep reading for our top 10 places to visit in Peru, plus a bonus section with answers to your most common Peruvian Travel FAQs.
- Where is Peru?
- Why Visit Peru?
- Best Places to Visit in Peru
- 1. Machu Picchu Ruins
- 2. Cusco – Capital fo the Incas
- 3. Sacred Valley of the Incas
- 4. Huaraz Cordillera Blanca
- 5. Iquitos Amazon Rainforest
- 6. Nazca Lines & Desert
- 7. Lima – Culinary Capital
- 8. Arequipa & Colca Canyon
- 9. Puno & Lake Titicaca
- 10. Huacachina Oasis
- FAQ – Best Places to Visit in Peru
Where is Peru?
Peru is located on the western side of South America, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west.
To the north, it shares borders with Ecuador and Colombia, while to the east it touches Brazil, and to the southeast, it borders Bolivia.
Broadly speaking, Peru has 3 different geographical regions. To the west, there are coastal deserts, from north to south down the country’s central spine are the Andes Mountains, and to the east of the Andes Peru is enveloped in dense Amazon rainforest.
Peru’s capital city, Lima, is situated along the Pacific coast.
Why Visit Peru?
A visit to Peru offers a truly diverse travel experience.
Peru’s standout difference compared to her neighbors is the wealth of ancient history and ruins to explore. While most travelers will have heard about the UNESCO World Heritage site Machu Picchu, there are also many other important and fascinating Inca sites to discover. Going back even further, there are also remains of other mysterious ancient civilizations like the Nazca, and pre-Columbian sites.
Peru also boasts enviable natural beauty for intrepid visitors to explore. From the snow-capped Andes to the pristine Amazon rainforest, Peru’s landscapes are diverse and dramatic.
The culture and people of the country also stand out from the crowd. Peruvians are renowned for their hospitality and friendliness, and there are ample opportunities to mingle and make new friends. You’ll find vibrant festivals, colorful textiles, lively markets, and centuries-old architecture that showcases the country’s rich heritage.
For adrenaline junkies, Peru is the perfect playground. Visitors can trek the famous Inca Trail, go sandboarding at Huacachina Oasis, white-water raft through the Sacred Valley, or embark on an unforgettable journey into the deep jungle.
Last but certainly not least, Peruvian food has taken the world by storm with its fusion of flavors. Each region offers its own specialties, making Peru a top destination for foodies.
In short, Peru is a country where adventure, culture, history, and nature come together to create an unforgettable travel experience
10 Best Places to Visit in Peru
It’s never easy to make a top 10 list, especially with hundreds of wonderful destinations and activities competing against one another.
Here we’ve gone for the 10 places that should be considered for your first trip to Peru. That is, top tourist highlights that should at least be considered for your travel itinerary.
Of course, Peru also has lots of hidden secrets for off-the-beaten-path travelers too. Pretty much in and around each of the 10 destinations in this post, if you dig a little deeper you’ll find other cool places to check out nearby too.
So, without further ado, let’s get into our list of the 10 best places to visit in Peru, written in no particular order.
1. Machu Picchu – One of the 7 Wonders of the World
There’s no better place to start our list than Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. One of the Seven Wonders of the New World, Machu Picchu is Peru’s most iconic site.
No doubt you’ve seen the classical image before. The intricate archaeological site is perched atop a mountain surrounded by lush green peaks. No matter how many times you’ve seen it on a screen, this is one awe-inspiring panoramic view that will take your breath away in person.
Nestled high in the Andes Mountains at nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, this ancient Incan citadel is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built-in the 15th century, the Machu Picchu Citadel is believed to have been a royal estate or sacred religious site.
Today, tourists from around the world can wander among the network of stonework buildings and agricultural terraces to discover the citadel’s secrets. It’s recommended to take a guided tour to help you understand the history and significance of this majestic site.
Some pre-planning is required to figure out how to visit Machu Picchu.
First, you need to get there. The Machu Picchu train leaves Cusco daily to make the journey through the Sacred Valley and onto Aguas Calientes Town below the citadel.
You’ll also need Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets. We recommend buying tickets well in advance as the number of people who are allowed to visit is limited daily, and often sells out months in advance. There are tickets for different walking circuits of the citadel, so read up carefully before making your final decision.
Of course, there’s also the famous 4-day Inca Trail trek for an authentic once-in-a-lifetime experience. You’ll hike through stunning Andes landscapes before arriving at the citadel's Sun Gate.
Machu Picchu is definitely the #1 best place to visit in Peru and does not disappoint.
2. Cusco – Capital of the Inca Empire
Cusco City is the historic capital of the Incas, brimming with culture, history, and charm.
Built by the Inca and colonized by the Spanish after the previous empire fell, Cusco is a mix of ancient ruins, colonial architecture, and modern tourist attractions that include restaurants and bars geared toward travelers.
Cusco is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with pretty cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, ancient Inca walls, and lively markets. The fusion of Incan and Spanish architecture is evident in landmarks like the Plaza de Armas and the stunning Cathedral of Santo Domingo, built atop the ruins of an Inca temple. Everywhere you turn, Cusco offers a glimpse into its fascinating past.
Don’t miss a visit to Sacsayhuaman, the hillside Inca ruins that tower above the city. This is the historic site of the Inca's last stand against Spanish occupation and affords incredible views across the city below.
Cusco is a city where you can spend a few days exploring on foot, losing yourself in the narrow lanes. There are lots of hidden streets and courtyards waiting to be discovered. It’s also the perfect base from which to explore the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Salinas de Maras, Moray, and much more.
3. Peru’s Sacred Valley – Incan Ruins & Fertile Fields
Peru’s Sacred Valley (Valle Sagrado) is a beautiful region nestled between Cusco and Machu Picchu, known for its stunning landscapes, ancient Incan ruins, and traditional villages.
The valley is lined with fertile farmlands and framed by towering Andean peaks, making it one of the most picturesque places in Peru.
Historically, it was an important agricultural hub for the Incas, with remnants of their terraces still visible today. Visitors can explore archaeological sites like Ollantaytambo, a well-preserved Incan fortress, and Pisac, famous for its ruins and vibrant artisan market.
Beyond its historical treasures, the Sacred Valley offers endless adventure for travelers. You can hike through scenic trails, visit traditional weaving communities like Chinchero, or try adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining river rafting, and mountain biking.
Many tourists take a traditional Sacred Valley day tour visiting the principal sites, and perhaps staying overnight in Ollantaytambo to take the morning train to Machu Picchu. With more time on your hands, why not spend a few nights to better explore the tranquil and relaxing Sacred Valley of the Incas?
4. Huaraz – Snowcapped Peaks of the Andes
Huaraz, known as the “Switzerland of Peru”, is located in the heart of the Andes, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.
This area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering some of the most stunning high-altitude scenery in all of South America.
Huaraz serves as the gateway to Huascarán National Park. This region is home to towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and striking glaciers. It’s the perfect playground for intrepid climbers and hikers, offering dramatic landscapes and challenging terrain.
To get to Huaraz from Lima it’s a 1-hour flight, or a longer 7-hour bus trip. Local outfitters organize day trips and climbing adventures with experienced guides into the surrounding scenery. Don’t miss the visits to Pastouri Glacier, Laguna 69, and climbing to the summit of Nevado Mateo.
5. Iquitos – Gateway to the Amazon
The Amazon Rainforest surely needs no introduction. Spanning a vast area in eastern Peru, this lush jungle is home to an astonishing biodiversity of flora and fauna. For nature lovers, Peru’s Amazon is a must-visit!
The Amazon's dense vegetation, winding rivers, black water lagoons, and remote wilderness make it a haven for exploration. With an experienced naturalist guide by your side, you’ll encounter the hidden creatures of the jungle, as well as learn about the importance of protecting this pristine habitat.
Rainforest activities typically include wildlife spotting, canoe river excursions, trips, forest treks, cultural community encounters, kayaking, and more.
Expect to encounter monkeys, pink river dolphins, sloths, caiman alligators, piranha fish, and countless colorful bird species. For sure there’ll be some surprises mixed in too, as no two trips are the same.
Iquitos is Peru’s principal entry point to the jungle region, a 1-hour flight from Lima. Peru Amazon cruises like the Delfin III, La Perla, and Zafiro depart from Iquitos port on the adventure of a lifetime.
6. Nazca – Desert Mysteries
Nazca, a small desert town in southern Peru, is world-famous for its mysterious and massive geoglyphs known as the Nazca Lines.
These mysterious lines were etched into the arid plains over 1,500 years ago by the ancient Nazca civilization. Figures include animals, plants, and geometric shapes, some stretching over 1,200 feet long.
Today, it is not known why or how the Nazca people made these incredible works of art. Theories abound about their purpose, ranging from astronomical calendars to spiritual pathways. That’s all part of the mystery and magic of Nazca, you can let your imagination run wild.
The Nazca Lines are best viewed from the air. Daily scenic flights aboard small planes give visitors a bird’s-eye view of these ancient designs.
Aside from the iconic lines, Nazca offers visitors a deeper look into the region’s rich history and culture. You can explore the ancient Nazca culture at the nearby Cahuachi, an archaeological site believed to have been a ceremonial center, or visit the Chauchilla Cemetery, where well-preserved mummies from pre-Inca times lie in their original tombs.
Nazca is located 278 miles (447km) south of Lima, an 8-hour bus ride from the capital.
7. Lima – Peru’s Culinary Capital
Lima is another of the best cities to visit in Peru. As Lima is usually the point of entry/departure for tourists, chances are you’ll pass through the city at some point. It’s well worth taking a day or two to check this vibrant city out.
Home to 9 million people, Lima is a metropolitan city that stretches for miles in every direction. While the Miraflores neighborhood is home to swanky restaurants, movie theaters, and boutiques, the Old Town area boasts historic plazas and splendid colonial architecture.
Today though, what most makes Lima stand out from the pack, is its undisputed position as the culinary capital of South America. Yes, Lima is a food lover's paradise, offering a rich and diverse fine-dining scene that blends indigenous traditions with global influences in a fusion of flavors.
The city’s top chefs have transformed classic Peruvian dishes into modern masterpieces, while still paying homage to the country’s culinary heritage. Upscale Lima restaurants like Central and Maido consistently rank among the best in the world.
Tourists should also check out Lima’s bustling street markets serving anticuchos (grilled skewers), empanadas, lomo saltado (stir-fried beef), and causa (potato-based dishes). Sometimes simple street food is some of the tastiest Lima fare. At a fraction of the price.
The city is perhaps most renowned for its ceviche. This national dish of Peru is made from fresh fish marinated in lime juice and spiced with aji peppers. There is no fresher ceviche in the world than in the city of Lima.
8. Arequipa & Colca Canyon – Colonial Splendor & Natural Wonders
Arequipa, often dubbed the "White City" due to its stunning colonial architecture crafted from white volcanic sillar stone, is a captivating destination that should be on your Peru wish list.
Nestled in southern Peru, Arequipa is surrounded by dramatic volcanic peaks, including the imposing El Misti. It’s also the gateway to the breathtaking Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, Colca offers stunning vistas, terraced landscapes, and the chance to see the majestic Andean condor in flight.
The city of Arequipa itself boasts a rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere. The city’s historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring beautiful churches, convents, and plazas that showcase its colonial past. Don't miss the Santa Catalina Monastery, a sprawling, colorful complex that offers a glimpse into the lives of the nuns who once lived there.
The easiest way to get to Arequipa is to fly from Lima. The alternative is a 17-hour bus ride that is best broken up with a stop at Nazca.
9. Puno & Lake Titicaca – Indian Traditions High on the Altiplano
Lake Titicaca, perched high in the Andes on the border between Peru and Bolivia, is the largest lake in South America and one of the highest navigable lakes in the world. Puno is the base from which to explore the Titicaca region.
The lake is considered sacred in Andean culture and was believed to be the birthplace of the sun god Inti.
At an altitude of over 3,812 meters (12,500 feet), this serene and expansive body of water is steeped in both natural beauty and cultural significance.
One of the top visitor highlights is the floating Uros islands. Incredibly, people have built homes on man-made islands crafted from totora reeds.
The islands of Taquile and Amantani are also of great interest, renowned for traditional weaving, indigenous homestay experiences, and stunning panoramic views. This is the perfect spot to learn about pre-Columbian history and folklore.
In terms of access, there’s a train route connecting Puno to Cusco or a domestic airport at nearby Juliaca with flights to Lima.
10. Huacachina – Adventure at the Oasis
Finally, we’re at #10 on our list of best places to visit in Peru. Here’s a destination that offers something a little unexpected and different from the others.
Located in the midst of a vast desert at the base of huge sand dunes, Huacachina is everything you would imagine of a desert oasis.
Lush palm trees surround a central lagoon in the tiny town of less than a hundred people. Quaint adobe-style buildings offer a striking contrast to the arid desert landscape.
Huacachina is a popular spot for sand boarding and dune buggies, taking adventurous travelers on tours of the surrounding area. If adventure is not your thing, then sip a coffee or cocktail by the lagoon, perfect for relaxation and reflection.
As the sun sets, the golden sands and the tranquil waters create a magical ambiance that’s perfect for a memorable desert experience.
As an added bonus, there are nearby vineyards and wineries that add a touch of local flavor, allowing visitors to sample Peru's fine wines and famous pisco.
Huacachina is located just a few kilometers outside of Ica City. Bus travel from Lima to Ica takes around 4 and ½ hours.
Best Places to Visit in Peru: FAQs
So, having covered our list of the 10 best places to visit in Peru, let’s finish up with a quick-fire Peru Travel FAQ.
How to Get to Peru?
The most common way to reach Peru is by flying into its international airports. The primary entry point is Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) which is well-connected to major cities around the world.
From Lima, it’s easy to connect to other destinations within Peru, including Cusco, Arequipa, and the Amazon region.
It’s also possible to enter Peru by land. Bus services connect Peru with countries like Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Chile, and Bolivia.
Is Peru Worth Visiting?
For a diverse tourist experience that includes important UNESCO sites, Peru ticks all of the right boxes.
Having personally visited different regions of Peru many times over the past 2 decades, I don't hesitate to recommend Peru as a country worthy of your time.
What is the #1 Tourist Attraction in Peru?
Let’s face it Machu Picchu wins this one hands-down.
But, while Machu Picchu may be the main pull bringing tourists into Peru, most visitors end their trip impressed by other sites too.
So, while the Machu Picchu Citadel is a MUST in any Peru itinerary, don’t lose focus on some of the other Peruvian travel gems listed in this post.
When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Peru?
There is no simple answer as each region of Peru experiences different weather patterns.
I prefer to view Peru as a year-round travel destination. There are no extreme weather patterns or defined climatic seasons to avoid. Most months enjoy both sunshine and rain, with mostly comfortable temperatures.
In general, Peru’s dry season runs from May to September. While these months are considered to be the best season to visit Peru by many, you’ll also find larger crowds at the main attractions. Hence, the wet season can also offer a unique and less busy experience.
Nuances to this rule include the Amazon (dry season: June to September), and the coast including Lima (dry season: December to March)
Is Peru Safe to Visit?
Peruvian cities today boast lower crime rates than many US and European cities. But, as in any region of the world, there will be isolated cases of petty and occasionally violent crime.
For travel anywhere in the world it’s best to be street-wise, do your research about safe areas for tourists to explore, and always use your own common sense. Always be on the lookout for pick-pockets and take care of your belongings when out and about.
The vast majority of trips to Peru are trouble-free and full of happy memories.
How To Visit Peru?
The good news is that Peru is easy to visit with a little planning.
For backpackers and budget travelers, the bus system is easy to use and affordable. Just remember though, Peru is a large country, and the mountain roads in the Andes are often very indirect routes from A to B. So, you’ll need time to navigate your way around the country.
If budget is not such a big issue, and you prefer to pack as much in as possible without too many travel hassles, many tourists choose a private, organized Peru Tour.
Happy Gringo, for example, offers the “best of” itineraries around the country, and also flexible, custom-made unique Peru itineraries.
How many days in Peru?
We recommend 2-3 weeks of travel in Peru to visit the main highlights and enjoy a mix of activities.
If you only have 1 week then focus on Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. For example, our 7-day Machu Picchu & Cusco itinerary covers the main highlights in an efficient way.
With 2 weeks to play with, you could also add in Arequipa, Lake Titicaca, and perhaps a bit more of the coast if you save time by flying between cities. Check out our 11-day Lakes, Indians, and Ruins itinerary for ideas.
3 weeks in Peru is ideal, allowing a rainforest cruise, and/or a visit to the high snow-capped peaks of Huaraz. Our 14-day Magic of Peru itinerary is a great starting point from which to add a jungle cruise or trip into the Cordillera Blanca.
Another popular choice is to combine 2 different bucket list destinations into a single trip – Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands.
Need help planning your dream itinerary? We also specialize in custom-made Peru itineraries, including your choice of routes and destinations.
Contact us for a FREE TOUR QUOTE – Happy Gringo specializes in customized trips right across Ecuador, Galapagos, the Amazon, and South America including Peru.
In conclusion, there are so many best places to visit in Peru. The country is large in size, and diverse in attractions.
Peru was the center of the Incan empire, with many excellent ruins for tourists to explore. Top of the list, of course, is Machu Picchu, one of the 7 modern wonders of the world.
Visitors will also find the lush Amazon Rainforest, towering snowcapped peaks, mysterious deserts and oases, colonial history, and vibrant, modern cities. Literally something for all tastes and desires.
Peru fully deserves its place as one of South America’s top tourist hotspots. Come check it out for yourself and see what all the fuss is about.
