Peru is enormous - twice the size of Texas and quadruple that of Italy - and the regional contrasts are incredible. With its rich biodiversity, varied geography, and captivating culture, Peru has something for every traveler.
Moreover, it was once the heart of the Inca civilization, one of the most prominent pre-Columbian societies in the Americas, making it a place with an overwhelming amount to explore. Peru often feels boundless. With hundreds of incredible spots in Peru, creating a definitive list of the "best" places is a challenge. Nevertheless, I've made a valiant effort to compile a selection of key sites that, in my view, highlight the very best of Peru.
For a luxurious experience, a luxury Peru tour company will meet your expectations, focusing on top destinations and choosing exclusive boutique hotels over international chains. They embrace the 5 C’s of luxury travel: content, customization, cultural heritage, comfort, and customer service to offer an unforgettable adventure.
Machu Picchu is a place that hardly needs an introduction. As Peru’s most iconic landmark and one of South America’s most remarkable archeological sites, it stands tall at 7,972 feet (2,429 meters) in the Andes, overlooking the Urubamba River. It’s also the endpoint of the renowned Inca Trail (more on that later). Machu Picchu is thought to be over 500 years old. Among its terraced stone walls in the cloud forests and peaks, you’ll find the enigmatic Temple of the Sun and Incan homes connected by staircases and roads. It's truly unforgettable!
There are many places to explore in Lima, Peru. The capital is a vibrant city filled with colonial architecture, museums, and bars, creating a lively atmosphere. Nightlife enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy. This city is located along Peru's arid Pacific coast.
The colonial center has been well-preserved, yet the capital remains a bustling urban hub. It's one of South America's largest cities. Rich in history, Lima is known for pre-Columbian art and a 16th-century cathedral. With so many attractions, Lima should be a definite stop on your itinerary.
The Inca Trail rivals Mount Kilimanjaro and Everest Base Camp in trekking stature. It’s renowned as one of Earth’s most iconic routes and a premier draw for Peru tourism. Yet its origins date back centuries, potentially serving as the principal pilgrimage route to Machu Picchu since the 15th century. Today, adventurers flock to conquer the revered Classic Inca Trail, a 26-mile (42-kilometer) journey through Peru’s Sacred Valley, passing captivating ruins. This well-established trek typically spans four to five days to complete.
Cusco's presence is undeniably impressive. Once the capital of the Incan Empire, it’s a rich tapestry of history. The Spanish conquistadors' grand cathedrals, with their pinkish hue, dominate the bustling Plaza de Armas. Occasionally, you’ll spot Coricancha, a grand temple dedicated to the Incan sun god, Inti, rising among the buildings. The area is encircled by ancient ruins and terraces from centuries past. Not only is this a top destination in Peru, but it’s also near the starting points of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and the Salkantay Trail routes.
The Nazca lines remain a source of intrigue and fascination. History enthusiasts should make Nazca a must-visit on their Peru itinerary. This renowned Peruvian spot offers a captivating array of sights.
Situated on the southern coast, Nazca is the largest town in Nazca Province. The name 'Nazca' comes from the Nazca culture, which thrived between 100 BC and 800 AD.
Winter sports and outdoor adventures make Huaraz a favorite destination in Peru for adventure lovers. There are fascinating spots to explore within the city, too, like Jiron Jose Olaya, which hosts weekly markets offering regional foods, some of the unique attractions in Peru.
The city is situated in the northern part of the Callejon de Huaylas valley. Huaraz is the capital of the Ancash Region and is located 3,000 meters above sea level. This area is also renowned for Huarascan National Park, where visitors can spot jaguars and Andean condors.
Lake Titicaca, the largest in South America, stretches from southern Peru into Bolivia, bordering the Andes. It's known as the highest navigable lake on Earth, sitting at over 12,500 feet (3,810 meters) above sea level. The scenery is stunning, with the jagged, snow-covered Bolivian Andes in the background and the sparkling lake in the foreground. It's especially famous for its floating islands, crafted from reeds by the ancient Uru people who have inhabited the area for thousands of years. This popular tourist spot is accessible in a few hours by car from Cusco.
