15 Things to Do in Peru for an Unforgettable Trip
From ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes to vibrant cities and unique local traditions, Peru is packed with incredible adventures. Whether you’re hiking the famous Inca Trail, shopping for Alpaca clothing, or savoring Peruvian cuisine, there’s something here for every traveler.
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit Peru multiple times over the years and today’s post is all about my favorite things to do in Peru!
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Explore Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic things to do in Peru and offers an unforgettable journey through Inca history. This ancient citadel, perched high in the Andes, is a testament to the ingenuity of Inca engineering. As you explore the ruins, you’ll be captivated by the intricate stonework and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana stone, which is believed to have been used for astronomical observations.
Hike the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is one of my favorite travel memories to date and a must-do for anyone who enjoys hiking.
This 26-mile trek takes you through diverse terrains, from high mountain passes to lush cloud forests, and ends at Machu Picchu. As you hike, you’ll also encounter fascinating Inca ruins and enjoy stunning views of the Andes. The trail’s moderate difficulty makes it accessible to most hikers, but proper preparation is key.
Remember to book well in advance, as permits are limited to preserve this incredible Peru attraction. I have an entire post about hiking the Inca Trail for more information.
Visit the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is a region in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco, renowned for its historical, cultural, and natural significance. You can explore ancient Inca ruins like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, and Moray, which is an intriguing site featuring circular terraces believed to have been an Inca laboratory for crop experimentation. But in my opinion, it looks like something aliens made!
The Maras salt mines also offer a unique glimpse into ancient salt production methods still in use today.
And for adventure enthusiasts, the Sacred Valley provides thrilling opportunities such as rafting on the Urubamba River or mountain biking. You can even climb the side of a cliff and spend the night suspended in a glass pod here! These are called the Skylodge Adventure suites. It’s wild!
Admire Cusco’s architecture
Cusco’s colonial architecture offers a captivating blend of Inca and Spanish influences. As you explore the city’s cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter impressive structures that showcase the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the Plaza de Armas, the San Pedro Market, and the Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha).
Explore the Amazon Rainforest
Exploring the Amazon Rainforest is one of the most amazing things you can do in Peru. You’ll have the chance to spot unique wildlife, from colorful macaws to pink dolphins and even sloths and monkies. Luxury lodges and river cruises provide comfortable bases for your explorations and are often all-inclusive.
I personally stayed at the Treehouse Lodge and can’t recommend it enough.
No matter where you choose to stay, though, the Amazon Rainforest is an unforgettable addition to any Peru itinerary.
Hike Rainbow Mountain
Also known as Vinicunca, Rainbow Mountain is a natural wonder that I’ve actually been lucky enough to have visited twice now. This is hands down one of the best things to do in Peru. This mountain’s vibrant stripes of color are the result of mineral deposits and erosion over millions of years and it is incredible to see.
Now, it’s a challenging hike because of the altitude. It’s 5200 m above sea level or 17060 ft. You will need to move quite slowly because you’re going to feel very out of breath, no matter how good of shape you are in. Expect the hike to take around 3 hours. But the panoramic views at the summit are well worth the effort. I recommend joining a tour from Cusco, which will include transportation and a guide. Here are some popular options.
Hike to Humantay Lake
Humantay Lake is another one of the most gorgeous places I’ve ever visited. Humantay Lake is known for its crystal-clear, vibrant blue-green waters, which are fed by glacial melt.
It’s set against dramatic mountains and is a perfect day trip from Cusco. Again, the hike is challenging due to the high altitude, but it’s very much worth it. It typically takes about 2 hours to hike.
Be sure to pack plenty of water and sunscreen. I also recommend wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants that are lightweight to protect you from the sun. A hat is also a good idea. You are very exposed on this hike. If possible, I recommend going early to avoid the heat and the crowds.
Indulge in Lima’s culinary scene
Lima’s culinary scene is one of the best in the world. From traditional Peruvian dishes to innovative fusion cuisine, Lima is the perfect place to visit for foodies. You can explore world-renowned restaurants, bustling markets, and street food stalls.
I highly recommend joining a food tour in Lima, especially if you’re short on time.
And no matter which city you’re visiting in Peru, here are some Peruvian dishes and drinks you have to try!
- Pisco Sour: This classic Peruvian cocktail quickly is my favorite. It’s made with Pisco (a type of brandy), lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white, it’s a refreshing and potent drink that perfectly captures the spirit of Peru.
- Guinea Pig, known as Cuy: While it might seem unusual to some, guinea pig is a beloved traditional Andean dish.
- Coca Tea: This soothing herbal tea, made from coca leaves, is believed to help alleviate altitude sickness. I’m not sure if it actually helps but it does taste good. Just don’t try to take any coca leaves back home with you, as this is also what is used to make cocaine and is quite illegal in most countries.
- Ceviche is the national dish of Peru and consists of slices of raw fish spiced with salt, onions, and chili peppers and marinated in lime juice.
- Inca Kola: You have to try this unique, bright yellow soda that’s more popular in Peru than Coca-Cola. It’s super sweet flavor is unlike any other soft drink I’ve tasted!
- Alpaca: This is a tender and lean meat, and is typically grilled or used in stews. It is really delicious.
Swim with Sea Lions
Did you know you can swim with sea lions in Peru? It’s a great day trip from Lima! You can book a tour to the Palomino Islands from Lima, to swim by these cute creatures. There are thousands of them living here. Most tour companies will provide you with wetsuits, and you might even see penguins as well!
Fly over the Nazca Lines
Flying over the Nazca Lines is another thrilling day trip that can be done from Lima. These mysterious geoglyphs are etched into the desert floor and can only be truly appreciated from above. A 30-minute flight offers spectacular views of 12 famous figures, including the hummingbird, monkey, and astronaut.
The purpose of the Nazca Lines remains a mystery, sparking numerous theories over the years. Some researchers suggest they were part of an astronomical calendar, while others believe they indicate water sources in the desert. However, the most supported theory proposes that the Nazca people walked along the lines as part of religious rituals.
Shop for Alpaca Clothing
No trip to Peru would be complete without shopping for Alpaca wool clothing! Cusco is, in my opinion, the best city to do this.
But there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for Alpaca clothing. If you want genuine 100% Alpaca wool clothing, it’s going to cost you. For example, an Alpaca wool sweater will likely cost hundreds of US dollars. You’ll be able to tell if an item is real Alpaca wool when you touch it, as it will be cool to the touch and very soft. It will also be tightly woven and won’t have any holes when you hold it to the light.
Now, that said, 99.9% of the sweaters you’ll see being sold will have holes and be loosely woven, and not cold to the touch..which means it’s likely a synthetic blend with alpaca wool (or it’s entirely synthetic). Which, this is fine, as long as the prices are appropriate. For example, My favorite sweater I bought cost me roughly $15 US dollars, but not 100% alpaca wool.
Explore Arequipa
Arequipa is known as the “White City” and is a beautiful place to visit in Peru. Its stunning architecture, made from white volcanic rock, creates a unique cityscape. As you explore, you’ll discover colonial-era buildings with intricate carvings and vibrant colors. The Plaza de Armas is the perfect spot to admire these architectural marvels. Arequipa is also a gateway to the Colca Canyon…which brings me to my next point.
Trek through the Colca Canyon
This deep canyon offers breathtaking views and challenging hiking routes. You can choose from various trails, ranging from two to three days, depending on your fitness level and time constraints. As you descend into the canyon, you’ll encounter stunning landscapes, local villages, and diverse wildlife. Don’t miss the chance to spot Andean condors soaring above the canyon walls. After a rewarding hike, soak your tired muscles in the nearby hot springs, a perfect way to relax after your adventure!
Sandboard in Huacachina
Huacachina is a desert oasis in Peru and offers an awesome sandboarding experience. This unique activity allows you to glide down towering sand dunes, providing an adrenaline rush like no other. You can choose between lying down on the board or standing up for a more challenging ride. Many tour operators offer sandboarding as part of their dune buggy adventures, combining two exciting Peru attractions in one unforgettable experience.
Experience Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is one of the largest lakes in South America and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. It’s most famous for its man-made floating islands, which are constructed from layers of reeds.
As you step onto the springy surface, you’ll be greeted by locals in colorful traditional clothing. They’ll explain how they build and maintain their unique homes and demonstrate their reed-weaving techniques. While tourism has brought changes to their lifestyle, and I’ll admit, this does feel a bit like a tourist trap these days; it is still a fascinating place to visit if you have the time to do so.
Peru’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a destination that keeps travelers coming back for more. I’ve been there several times now and already can’t wait to return! Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, indulging in world-class cuisine, or simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery, Peru offers a journey that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
If anyone has any questions at all please reach out in the comments section at the end of this post.
- Read more: How to Spend 10 Days in Peru – The Ultimate Itinerary
- Read more: What to Pack for Peru + FREE Packing List Printable
- Read more: Hiking Rainbow Mountain in Peru: Your Ultimate Travel Guide for 2024
- Read more: 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Cusco, Peru + Day Trips You Won’t Want to Miss
- Read more: Are the Islas Uros (Floating Islands) of Lake Titicaca Worth the Journey?
Peru looks amazing!
What beautiful photos. I never thought of visiting Peru till now!