Written by:Claire Dean
Published: 23-05-2023
One of the most coveted destinations in all of South America comes complete with breathtaking Inca fortresses, soaring cloud forests, the snow-topped peaks of The Andes, the dusty coastal desert, and the misty Amazon rainforest alike. No wonder there’s a veritable wealth of go-to spots within its borders. Let’s explore the best Peru go-to places on your Peru trip!
Local Women and Alpacas
Cusco
Archeological ruins take center stage in this magnificent Incan empire. There are many places to visit in Cusco, Peru such as the Inca complex, Sacsayhuaman and Coricancha. You can also explore sites like the 17th century Cusco Cathedral and the vibrant Plaza de Armas that plays host to events and festivals. Cusco lies amidst the Andean mountain range and was once considered to be Inca Empire’s capital and therefore is home to various archaeological remains. The architecture here features Spanish colonial influence.
Machu Picchu
Probably the most famous touristic sight in Peru is Machu Picchu. It’s home to the iconic ruins of an Inca citadel. The best thing to do here is to hike and explore the stunning remains, which are world-famous for their spectacular beauty. This Inca citadel has been perfectly placed atop the Andes Mountains of Peru and overlooks the valley of the Vilcanota River. Machu Picchu was established in the 15th century and was abandoned after some time. The drystone, perfectly constructed walls attract the most tourists and demonstrate the legacy of The Inca construction techniques.
Machu Picchu
Lake Titicaca
Nestled between Peru and Bolivia is Lake Titicaca, a gorgeous stretch of water that’s incidentally also the highest navigable water body in the world. It’s also home to the floating Uros Islands, which are one of the most remarkable places to visit in Peru. Titicaca is one of the largest lakes of South America. Like other places in Peru, this place too has historical significance, as it is believed to be the birthplace of the Incas. This is probably why, you can witness a number of archaeological sites here.
The Nazca Lines
The Nazca lines continue to mystify and enthrall. If you love history, Nazca should be your next stop on your trip to Peru. It’s one of the famous places in Peru and is packed with sights to see for a mesmerizing experience. Located on the southern coast, Nazca is also the largest town in Nazca Province. The name ‘Nazca’ has been originated from the culture of Nazca that used to flourish during the time span of 100 BC and 800 AD.
The Nazca Lines
Huaraz
Winter sports and outdoor adventures make Huaraz a popular place to visit in Peru for adventure enthusiasts. There are jaw-dropping spots to explore inside the city as well such as Jiron Jose Olaya which holds weekly markets selling regional foods which are some of the unique things to see in Peru. The city is located north of Callejon de Huaylas Valley. Huaraz is the capital of the Ancash Region and lies 3,000 meters above sea level. This place is also famous for Huascaran National Park where you can see many animals, from jaguars to Andean condors, as well as awe-inspiring mountain terrain that is perfect for hiking and climbing.
Maras
See more of Peru’s history at Maras where the Maras Salt Mines date back to Incan times. It’s located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, which is itself a major Peru tourist attraction that you can’t afford to miss. Maras is one of the most fascinating sites to visit in Peru and is essentially famous for Maras Salt Mines that is gaining significance since ancient times. The trails around this part of The Sacred Valley offer picturesque landscapes from all four directions.
Maras Salt Pans
Paracas
Experience the natural beauty of Peru at Paracas National Reserve which provides migratory birds and wild animals a safe shelter. The reserve also has gorgeous beaches with reddish shores where you can chill and unwind for hours. This is one of the best-kept secrets to travel in Peru and showcases animals in their natural habitat, both on land and in the ocean. Found in the Ica region of Peru, you can find 65 archaeological sites in this impressive reserve.
The Cordillera Blanca
Close to Huaraz, complete your list of Peru's "go-to" places with a trip to the Cordillera Blanca, a mountain range that offers stunning opportunities for hiking. Climbers can also put their skills to the test by summiting one of the many impressive peaks. The Cordillera Blanca mountain range is considered to be part of the larger range of the Andes, expanding for over 200 kilometers. This range comprises various peaks that are more than 6,000 meters high. The range even includes about 722 glaciers.
Campsite inThe Cordillera Blanca
Chachapoyas
In a valley in northern Peru, is this town called the Chachapoyas surrounded by the cloud forest. The town often attracts history buffs due to its rich heritage and is no doubt one of the best places to visit in Peru, South America. The town is a way to archaeological sites and attracts a lot of tourists each year. If you are an adventurous soul, then you can find hiking opportunities in this quaint town of Chachapoyas, with stunning sites such as the Gocta waterfall and the magnificent archaeological site of Kuelap.
Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
One of the largest reserves in Peru, the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve exhibits surreal views of the forest reflecting on the water’s surface. Home to an extensive number of various species of flora and fauna, this national reserve is one of the popular places to visit in Peru. Spot brightly colored birds, different species of monkeys, beautiful orchids, luxuriant vegetation, and much more. The best way to take a look around this national reserve is via a tour on the cruise. Don't forget the meeting of the rivers for the ultimate experience in this natural reserve.
Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
Manu National Park
Allowing visitors to witness the magnificent Amazon Rainforest, Manu Rainforest National Park houses plenty of endemic wildlife. The rainforest attracts hundreds of colorful macaws by virtue of salt-rich clay licks. Manu Rainforest is one of the amazingly untouched places to visit in Peru that enables travelers to witness river otters, tapir, and other beautiful creatures of the forest. This reserve is nothing less than a paradise on earth for nature lovers.
The Colca Canyon
One of the locals’ favorites, Colca Canyon is the second deepest canyon in the world. The canyon exhibits picturesque sceneries and mesmerizing features along with intriguing remnants of Inca architecture. Colca Canyon has plenty to offer including great lodges, amazing walks, cultural experiences, and a chance to spot the largest flying bird on the planet, the giant Andean Condor.
Colca Canyon
This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to awe-inspiring sights in Peru. Ask us here about which are the best Peru "go-to" places for your next incredible Peru vacation!
