South America is one of the most exciting travel destinations in the world, offering some of the best places to visit in Peru, with a perfect mix of history, nature, and culture. From the Andes to the Pacific coast and the Amazon, the country is home to breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and ancient archaeological sites. If you’re wondering what Peru is famous for, think of Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, world-class cuisine, and its colorful traditions.
Using a Peru Tourist Map will help you plan an unforgettable journey. The best time to visit Peru varies by region. The best time to visit Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley is from May to October, while the best time to visit Peru is between December and March. With Machu Travel Peru, you can enjoy personalized tours and uncover the hidden gems of this magical country.
Join us to discover the best places in Peru
- Machu Picchu
- Sacred Valley
- Cusco
- Lake Titicaca
- Arequipa
- Colca Canyon
- Lima
- Nazca
- Paracas and Ballestas Islands
- Amazon Jungle and Amazon River
- Chan Chan
- Huacachin Oasis
- Huascaran National Park
- Kuelap
- Mancora
- Plaza de Armas of Lima
- Sillustani
- Pisac
- Ollantaytambo
- Moray and Maras
1. Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is the most iconic attraction in Peru and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Inca citadel, hidden in the Andes, amazes visitors with its stone terraces and temples. You can get there by train or hike the famous Inca Trail for a more adventurous approach. Discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911, it remains a symbol of Inca ingenuity and mystery.
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from May to October. It is a destination that will leave a lifelong impression.
2. Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is a natural paradise surrounded by snow-capped peaks and fertile plains. It was once the agricultural center of the Inca Empire due to its mild climate. Highlights include Pisac, with its colorful markets, and Ollantaytambo, an impressive fortress.
Popular adventure activities in the area include hiking, biking, and rafting. Exploring the valley is also a cultural journey into ancient traditions. It’s a must-see on any Peru Tourist Map. So if you are looking for adventure, history, and have an adventurous spirit, this destination is definitely for you.
3. Cusco
Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, is a city full of history and charm. The Plaza de Armas is its vibrant heart, surrounded by churches, museums, and restaurants. Its streets combine Inca walls with colonial architecture, creating a unique atmosphere.
Visitors can explore San Blas, a neighborhood known for its artisans and bohemian vibe. Cusco is also the gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Spending a few days here is essential to adjust to the altitude and enjoy its magic.
4. Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest navigable lake, located at 3,812 meters above sea level. Its deep blue waters and floating reed islands are truly unique. A visit to the Uros Islands offers a glimpse into the traditions of the Uros people.
Taquile Island is another highlight, famous for its weaving and handicrafts. The nearby city of Puno is the main hub for lake tours. This is a perfect destination for culture and nature lovers alike.
5. Arequipa
Arequipa is called the “White City” due to its colonial buildings made from white volcanic rock. The city is framed by the volcanoes Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu, giving it a dramatic skyline. The Santa Catalina Monastery is a must-see landmark with its colorful courtyards and history.
Arequipa is also famous for its traditional cuisine, such as rocoto relleno and chupe de camarones. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect for walking tours. This city is an ideal blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
6. Colca Canyon
The Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world, with depths twice that of the Grand Canyon. Visitors flock here to watch Andean condors soar over the cliffs at dawn. The area is also home to traditional villages like Chivay, known for hot springs and local markets.
Hiking in the canyon reveals spectacular landscapes and terraces carved by ancient civilizations. It’s a destination for adventure seekers and photographers alike. A visit to Colca is the perfect complement to a stay in Arequipa.
7. Lima
The capital city of Lima is a lively metropolis that blends history and modern attractions. The colonial center, with the Plaza de Armas, cathedrals, and palaces, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Coastal districts like Miraflores offer parks, ocean views, and shopping. Barranco, the bohemian district, is famous for its art galleries and nightlife.
Lima is also a culinary capital, home to some of the world’s best restaurants. The best time to visit Lima is from December to March, when the skies are clearer.
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8. Nazca
The Nazca Lines are one of Peru’s most mysterious wonders, etched into the desert floor thousands of years ago. These massive geoglyphs, depicting animals and shapes, are best viewed from the air. The origins and meaning of the lines remain a puzzle to scientists and historians. A scenic flight reveals famous figures like the monkey, hummingbird, and spider.
Nazca is also known for its aqueducts and ancient cemeteries. It’s an essential stop for history lovers and curious travelers.
9. Paracas and Ballestas Islands
Paracas is a charming coastal town and gateway to the Ballestas Islands, known as the “mini Galapagos”. The islands are home to sea lions, penguins, and hundreds of seabird species. A boat tour also passes by the Candelabra geoglyph, carved into a desert hillside. Nearby, the Paracas National Reserve offers desert landscapes meeting the Pacific Ocean.
Paracas is perfect for relaxing in boutique hotels and enjoying fresh seafood. It’s a great addition to a coastal itinerary south of Lima.
10. Amazon Jungle & Amazon River
The Peruvian Amazon offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through lush rainforest and incredible biodiversity. Iquitos, a city accessible only by air or river, is a popular starting point for cruises along the Amazon River. Alternatively, Puerto Maldonado offers eco-lodges and jungle excursions.
Visitors can spot exotic animals like pink dolphins, monkeys, and colorful birds. Night walks, canopy tours, and river explorations make the experience unforgettable. The Amazon is ideal for travelers who love nature and adventure.
11. Chan Chan
Chan Chan, near Trujillo, is the largest adobe city in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was once the capital of the Chimu Kingdom before the Inca conquest. The ruins reveal impressive palaces, ceremonial plazas, and intricate carvings.
Guided tours help visitors understand the history and architecture of this ancient metropolis. Nearby, you can explore the coastal city of Trujillo with its colonial charm. Chan Chan is a key destination for history enthusiasts.
12. Huacachina Oasis
Huacachina is a desert oasis surrounded by giant dunes near Ica. The natural lagoon, lined with palm trees, creates a picturesque setting. Visitors can enjoy sandboarding or take thrilling dune buggy rides. The sunsets over the dunes are some of the most beautiful in Peru.
Huacachina is also close to Pisco wineries and vineyards for wine and pisco tastings. It’s a perfect stop between Lima and Nazca.
13. Huascarán National Park
Located in the Cordillera Blanca, Huascarán National Park is a paradise for trekkers and mountaineers. It’s home to Peru’s highest peak, Huascarán (6,768 meters), and many turquoise glacial lakes. Popular hikes include Laguna 69, known for its stunning blue waters.
The park is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and offers breathtaking Andean scenery. Wildlife lovers may spot condors, vicuñas, and spectacled bears. This is an ideal destination for adventure travelers.
14. Kuelap
Kuelap is an ancient fortress built by the Chachapoyas culture in northern Peru. Known as the “Machu Picchu of the North”, it features massive stone walls and hundreds of structures. Surrounded by cloud forests, the site offers a mystical atmosphere.
A modern cable car provides easy access to the ruins. Nearby attractions include waterfalls and unique Andean villages. Kuelap is perfect for those seeking lesser-known gems.
15. Mancora
Mancora is Peru’s most popular beach destination, located in the northern region. It’s famous for its year-round sunshine, golden sands, and warm waters. Surfers from around the world visit to enjoy its consistent waves. The town also offers luxury resorts, beach clubs, and vibrant nightlife. Fresh seafood and ceviche are highlights of its culinary scene. Mancora is perfect for relaxing after exploring the highlands.
16. Plaza de Armas of Lima
The Plaza de Armas of Lima is the historic heart of the capital city. Surrounded by the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and colonial buildings, it’s rich in history. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to learn about Peru’s colonial past.
At night, the square is beautifully illuminated, making it ideal for photos. Cafes and shops nearby add to the experience. It’s a must-visit when exploring Lima’s old town.
17. Sillustani
Sillustani is an ancient burial site near Puno, known for its impressive funerary towers called chullpas. Built by pre-Inca civilizations, these stone towers overlook Lake Umayo. The site offers a glimpse into ancient burial customs and rituals.
The surrounding landscapes, with high plains and mountains, are stunning. It’s a great stop on the way to or from Lake Titicaca. Sillustani is a hidden gem for history buffs.
18. Pisac
Pisac is a town in the Sacred Valley known for its artisan market and Inca ruins. The market is perfect for buying traditional textiles, jewelry, and crafts. The ruins sit high above the valley, offering incredible views.
Pisac is also a great place to experience local culture and festivals. Many travelers visit on day trips from Cusco. It’s a mix of history, shopping, and breathtaking scenery.
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19. Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is both a living Inca town and an impressive fortress. Its massive stone terraces were key defensive structures against the Spanish. The town’s narrow streets and canals have remained unchanged for centuries. It’s also the starting point for trains to Machu Picchu.
Visiting Ollantaytambo offers a glimpse into daily life during Inca times. It’s one of the Sacred Valley’s must-see spots.
20. Moray and Maras
Moray is an ancient agricultural laboratory of circular terraces used by the Incas. Nearby, the Maras Salt Mines feature thousands of salt pools still harvested by local families.
Both sites offer a fascinating look into Inca ingenuity. The landscapes are stunning, with the Andes as a backdrop. Tours often combine both attractions for a half-day trip. They’re ideal for travelers interested in history and photography.
“WITH AGE COMES WISDOM; WITH TRAVEL, COMES UNDERSTANDING”
From Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail to the Colca Canyon, Nazca Lines, and Amazon River, Peru has countless wonders to explore. The best time to visit Peru will depend on the region and activities you choose. With the expertise of Machu Travel Peru, your adventure can be customized to ensure you experience the country’s highlights at the perfect time. Start planning your journey and discover why Peru is one of the world’s top destinations!
Peru has so much to offer; it can be hard to know where to start. With many years of experience in the tourism sector, Machu Travel Peru is happy to help with anything regarding your trip to Machu Picchu and any tours around it. Make your Machu Picchu experience an unforgettable one! Contact us today to plan your dream adventure!
