What to do in Peru, what are the best things to see in Peru? That is a great question as there many exciting things to do and see. Where to start? Peru has three regions that make up this Andean country, the Coast, the Highlands and the Jungle each offering a unique experience for the traveler. Therefore, where to start that answer is easy, you will need to start in the Capital of Peru and that is where all the international flights arrive.
Lima
Lima, the capital of Peru is your starting point for any Peruvian adventure. Lima is a big city like many other but you should take the time to explore, the city has a great mix of old and new both of which are wonderful to see. Lima is known worldwide for its food, you will not be disappointed with the flavors and the variety. The city is now thought of as one of the great things to do in Peru.
Nazca
Not far from Lima is the quiet little town of Nazca, the area enjoys year round sunshine but what it is most famous for is the mysterious Nazca Lines. Etched into the desert floor the Nazca Lines are a series of drawing and lines that can only be seen from the air. Around the town of Nazca, you can see the Cemetery of Chauchilla and many other interesting sites.
Know all the theories about Nazca lines.
Arequipa
A city that should be on your must see list is Arequipa. Arequipa is considered Peru´s second city and the city has a lovely atmosphere. The main square has a lovely Cathedral and many restaurants surround the Plaza. Take a city tour or go to the Santa Catalina Monastery and experience the history of Arequipa.
Colca Valley
From Arequipa travel around five hours to the Colca Valley. Here you will find one of the deepest Canyons in the world. View the Canyon from the Cruz del Condor and see the majestic Condors circling above.
Lake Titicaca
Travel to the south of Peru and you will find the fascinating Lake Titicaca. Considered one of the highest lakes in the world, the lake has a crystal like appearance. Situated on the lake are the man made Uros Islands and the wonderful Uros people. The islands receive many tourists per year but maintain a peaceful life fishing and growing food. The islands are made out of reeds that grow in the lake and are like nothing that you will see anywhere else.
Cusco
Travel north of Puno and you will arrive into Cusco. Cusco was the heart of the Inca Empire and you can still see some of the remains of their empire today. Cusco is a great place to spend a few days and if you love the nightlife, you will not be disappointed. Spend your days exploring the city streets filled with museums, markets and great restaurants to enjoy. Cusco is filled with lovely Spanish colonial churches and houses, some of which have been transformed into Hotels. Just outside the city are four Inca ruins that are included on most City tours.
Sacred Valley
While in the Cusco area, you must experience the Sacred Valley of the Inca, one of the most naturally beautiful places on the planet. The spectacular countryside is breathtaking and the climate is mild compared to Cusco. In most people’s opinion, the Sacred Valley is one of the best things to see in Peru and this is reflected in how many travelers have stayed and made the Valley home. Also featuring some incredible Inca ruins that you are able to tour.
Amazon Jungle
A short flight from Cusco is the Amazon Jungle town of Puerto Maldonado. In the past this town was the major port in the Jungle in Peru. Today the port is mainly used for tourists travel to the Amazon Jungle lodges that are situated on the rivers around Puerto Maldonado. If you are a lover of nature than you will enjoy the jungle experience. There are lodges from the budget to the luxurious all with many activities to participate. The food in the jungle is different to anywhere else in Peru and is based on fruit, vegetable and fish from the rivers.
Luxury Cruises
In the northern Amazon, the town of Iquitos is where you can take a luxury cruise. There are many different companies to choose and the standard of luxury depends on the price you pay. Cruise down the Amazon, pass the local villages, and see the way of life of the local people. If you are lucky, you might be able to see the Pink Dolphins swimming next to boat.
Machu Picchu
Last but certainly not least is Machu Picchu. Travelers from all over the globe come to Peru to see the Inca city and is one of the best things to see in Peru. The ancient Inca citadel was never discovered by the Spanish and sat covered in vegetation for centuries. Mystery still surrounds the purpose of the site and why it was so quickly abandoned. Today hundreds visit every day and learn the history of Machu Picchu.
To explore Peru will be one of the best travel experience you will enjoy, so much to see you will find it difficult to decide. However, be sure to find a Peru travel guide and read all your options to have the best travel experience in Peru.
