10 unmissable places in Peru

Looking for tips to plan your next trip to Southern Peru? In this short article, we’ve summarized our personal list of the 10 must-visit destinations you can include in your itinerary

"Little by little one walks far" - Peruvian Proverb

Southern Peru is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where postcard-perfect landscapes intertwine with a millennia-old history that has produced a vibrant and joyful culture. From the heights of the Andes to the coastal deserts, every kilometer traveled in Peru tells a fascinating story, full of local traditions, ancient civilizations, and natural scenery that leaves visitors breathless. Exploring Peru means immersing yourself in a world where nature, history, and culture blend harmoniously, while connecting with a warm and welcoming people who enrich the travel experience in an authentic and unforgettable way. Whether you are a nature lover, an archaeology enthusiast, or simply seeking thrilling adventures, we are convinced that Peru will surprise you.

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10 unmissable places in Peru

We’ve summarized our personal list of the 10 unmissable places in Peru based on our own travel itinerary, especially for those visiting the country for the first time.

Lima

The lively and modern capital of Peru can feel a bit chaotic, but it still retains its charm with its colonial historic center (definitely don’t miss Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and the nearby Monasterio de San Francisco) and the modern Miraflores district with the Love Park overlooking the ocean. In our case, since we are not particularly fond of cities, we spent only one day in Lima. However, as it’s an inevitable stop for those arriving by plane, it’s still worth including in your itinerary, especially on a first trip to Peru.

Looking for a unique evening activity? We recommend the light and music show at the Magic Water Circuit fountains.

Ballestas Islands

A boat trip to the Ballestas Islands, sometimes called the “Galapagos of Peru,” is a unique opportunity for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. Here, you can easily spot seals, sea lions, penguins, pelicans, and many other bird species at close range.

If you have time, we also recommend spending at least half a day in the nearby Paracas National Reserve, a protected area where the desert meets the ocean in spectacular fashion.

Ica Desert

The Huacachina Oasis is particularly recommended for desert landscape enthusiasts. The scenery is dominated by enormous golden sand dunes, with an oasis in the center. From here, you can embark on adrenaline-pumping dune buggy tours across the sandy slopes. Sandboarding is also highly recommended and great fun!

Nazca Lines

The mysterious Nazca Lines are a series of enormous geoglyphs depicting animals, plants, and geometric designs, created by pre-Inca civilizations. Even today, it remains a mystery how they were made without the ability to view them from above! The best way to see the lines is via a small plane tour; alternatively, there is a viewpoint for a partial view, but it doesn’t compare to the full aerial experience.

Arequipa

Nicknamed the “White City” and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000, Arequipa will amaze you with its typical colonial architecture. Don’t miss Plaza de Armas with its impressive Cathedral, the Iglesia de la Compañía with its cloister and panoramic roof, the colorful Monasterio de Santa Catalina, and the picturesque Yanahuara viewpoint with unparalleled views of the El Misti (5,800 m) and Chachani (6,057 m) volcanoes.

Colca Canyon

The majestic Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world and a must-visit spot to watch the Andean condors soaring right above your head.

Driving through the area allows you to admire typical Andean landscapes, many massive volcanoes (particularly the continuously active Sabancaya at 5,976 m), several lagoons with pink flamingos (like Lagunillas), and traditional villages such as Yanque and Maca. You’ll also encounter many llamas and alpacas, especially in the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve — simply fantastic!

Lake Titicaca

The highest navigable lake in the world, at 3,800 m, is best explored on a full-day boat tour with stops at its main islands.

In particular, don’t miss a scenic walk on Taquile Island to admire the stunning landscape and see how a typical Peruvian family lives and works.

Finally, visit the floating Uros Islands — very picturesque islets made by continually adding a yellow reed called totora that grows in the lake. Each island is home to an extended family. The Uros people are friendly, welcoming, and proud to share their way of life and crafts.

Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is now famous for its colonial buildings and nearby Inca ruins (Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay).

In Cusco, beyond wandering the old town streets, don’t miss Plaza de Armas with the Cathedral and the Coricancha Temple with the Convent of Santo Domingo (also called the Temple of the Sun, the most important temple of the Inca Empire).

The San Pedro market is very picturesque, and for a cultural experience, the Inca Museum is worth a visit.

A fun fact about Cusco: the city was historically designed in the shape of a puma, according to the Inca division of the world into three levels: condor (upper world/sky), puma (human world), and serpent (lower world/underground).

Just outside Cusco, the Sacred Valley is a must-see, particularly: the charming village of Chinchero, the impressive Maras Salt Mines with 3,000 white salt pools at 3,000 m, the unusual Inca ruins of Moray with circular terraced depressions used as an agricultural laboratory for adapting crops to different altitudes, and the well-preserved Inca fortress and temple of Ollantaytambo

Rainbow Mountains

Peru has at least two famous sites for a hike with views of the colorful mountains. If you prefer a quieter, easier trek with breathtaking scenery, try Palcoyo instead of the more famous Vinicunca, as we did!

Historically, Peruvians have a deep respect for nature, the so-called Pachamama. After waking at 4:30 a.m., three hours by car, and one hour of hiking at 5,000 m with little oxygen, surrounded only by the sound of the wind, you reach this natural paradise and cannot help but thank Pachamama for such a unique and stunning place.

Machu Picchu

The iconic symbol of Peru and one of the Seven Wonders of the World! The best-preserved Inca city is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the region. Be prepared for long lines and early mornings, but the views will stay in your heart forever.

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To discover more about these places, read also our articles dedicated to Peru and have a look to our posts and stories dedicated to Peru dated August/September 2019 on our Instagram page @2intour