Top Things to Do in Peru | Best Places to Visit for Tourists

Peru sits on the west side of the continent South America and honestly, it’s kind of a wild country. It’s a country with crazy and beautiful land views everywhere, having different unique cultures, and ancient history that feels still alive around every side of the region. From experiencing high mountain trails to coastlines, Peru offers everything. You can get lost in chaotic markets, stumble into centuries-old stories, eat your way through street stalls, and stand face-to-face with views that actually leave you speechless.

In this article, you’re going to look at some of the best tourist spots in Peru; the places that actually will remain with you for a lifetime. Not only about the typical spots, but also you will get to know the hidden secrets of nature. Let’s show you where and how to go and why it will be special and you can then begin creating an itinerary for your adventure. 

Before we dive in if you're concerned about staying connected during your travels, our SimCorner has SIM and eSIM plans ready for your trip.

Here are some of the adventures that the majority of explorers find interesting. There will be new motivations to create your dream journey from this country, regardless of the number of times you have visited.

Let’s get started.

Lima: Culinary Delights and Colonial Charm

It’s the capital of Peru and it combines customs of Pre-Columbus with the modern life of today. Its old town earned the ‘UNESCO heritage site’ title due to its Spanish-era buildings, wide open squares, and top museums. 

Must-see spots:

• You can visit the adobe pyramid called the Huaca Pucllana, and definitely go to the magical water themed park if you have kids, and if you're religious, visit churches and monasteries of San Francisco.
• Lima's culinary culture is very famous. That’s why, when eating in restaurants like Central, Kjolle, and Isolina, you will find them serving foods mixed with their traditional recipes and a modern touch.

Machu Picchu: Crown Jewel of Incan Civilization

Machu Picchu is said to be one of the highest rated sites of Peru. That’s because it’s located over 2,430 meters above sea level in the Andes. So this city is at a high latitude. If you visit there you will be reminded of the old Inca culture. The region is sitting quietly over the Urubamba River; that was built into sharp slopes with wide stone steps, not just normal flat fields. You will find temples across the region along with sacred spots made for religious rituals. From there, you can see endless peaks stretching far beyond the horizon.

It’s an old place from the 1400s which became a UNESCO site back in 1983 and later in 2017, got titled as a part of the new Seven Wonders by the travellers.

Things to experience here:

• Bring a local tour guide while visiting here, because the guide will ensure to take you to explore the Sun Temple, Intihuatana rock, and "Temple of the Three Windows".
• Craving for more intense adventure? Go for a train journey from Ollantaytambo in Sacred Valley. Or just walk and hike through the ancient Inca Trail but it will take four to five days to cross through woodlands, steep mountain areas, and other stone structures. Last option, a combo ride of a bus from Aguas Calientes and later a train.
• A good tip from locals is to wear sunscreen and have rainwears ready because Peru is hated for having unpredictable weather whose mood can change any time.

Don’t forget to visit Machu Picchu especially if you’re a first timer, because it offers ancient feelings, and odd structures. You can also become one with the locals; they are pretty friendly.

Historian John Hemming once said:

"Machu Picchu is the ultimate expression of Inca civilization, a place where nature and architecture are in perfect harmony."

Choquequirao: Machu Picchu’s ‘Sister City’

The site earned its name because of the similar old Inca-style buildings. But because it’s located at a very remote place, many travellers don’t and even can’t visit there. The city will get you to see some amazing views, historic works by stones, and has peaceful roads as it sits on a steep hilly side over the Apurímac River canyon. 

If you're the type who prefers silence over selfie lines, this is your spot. Choquequirao will be at the top of your itinerary if you're a traveller who looks for peace and solitude, by wanting to be away from the crowds of Peru's other viral spots.

Expectations:

• It is a long trekking journey, for several days, as you’re starting from close to Cusco. Be prepared to bring patience and solid boots. If you’ve got extra time and love wild journeys, this fits just right.
• Step into terraced remains, old ritual spots, also wide-open scenes for a raw taste of Inca times, just without the crowds.

Cusco: Ancient Peru's gateway

Did you know, Cusco was the ancient capital of the Inca Empire? Over time, it now has a nice mixture of buildings from the Spanish period and ancient Inca architecture. An UNESCO-designated downtown district, Cusco has narrow stony streets, and other historic works of stones, and stunning colonial-era churches. In this same city, you will also find The Cusco Cathedral, Santa Catalina monastery, and the Sacsayhuaman stronghold which was constructed from large rocks weighted 125 tons. 

Things to do here:

Are you foody and/or interested in the local way of life? Then visit Gustave Eiffel's San Pedro Market. Since Cusco is your gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, take your time to explore what the city has to offer.

Sacred Valley: The Inca Empire's Center

This valley, also called Valle Sagrado, used to be the main agricultural area of the Inca Empire. But how did it become a viral attraction now? That’s because of its rich soil and stable weather, unlike the majority of Peru. This place is located just northeast or outside of Cusco. Everywhere around here is filled with ancient stone remains, and it has many local markets, and stunning scenery. 

Must-see locations in this area:

• Pisac, which has a fortress-like layout
• Ollantaytambo, famous for its very big stone terraces.
• Moray, which serves some circular designs, each cleverly revealing  how Incas blended technology and ancient beliefs.
• Walk through Cusco’s narrow alleys and see Spanish-era churches sitting on top of ancient stone bases, hanging out by the main square. This exploration will make you understand how people live here for generations. 
• Also explore other old town spots such as Ollantaytambo where Inca-era layouts are still remaining around. 
• By visiting the local markets nearby, chat with people who live there, and learn or enjoy handmade crafts from the Andes, colorful fabrics, woven goods, along with unique art made by skilled hands.

Some more worth mentioning spots here:

• Pisac Market: this place is recognized as an Inca market, which is known for fabrics, handmade goods, or fresh food.
• Ollantaytambo Fortress: it’s a  proof of sharp buildings from the Inca periods, where you’ll get Big stone steps, old temples, and water channels.
• Maras Salt Pains: People here have made salt this way since before the Spanish arrived. Rows of little lakes are clinged to the hillside, which are being shaped by hands over generations. You can see how locals still work with old methods. 

Terence N. D’Altroy, an expert, observed and said:

"The Inca Empire’s legacy is evident in the grandeur of its ruins and the resilience of its people."

Lake Titicaca and the Floating Islands

Do you want to sail on the highest lake? Lake Titicaca is best known for this. It is located thousands of meters above sea level and is located directly between Bolivia's and Peru's borders. The Uros islands, also known as floating islands are found here, which were built completely from thick totora reeds. These spots are lived on by the Uros people who’ve maintained their ways alive for ages. 

Tourists get to walk around the islands, check out how they build boats using only reeds, or watch old-style dancing and hear local music.

Things to do here:

• Walk onto the Uros Islands to feel like walking in a story from the past. Life here goes on because families stayed through time, keeping their old traditions alive. While you're there, go for a boat ride across the waters, especially during the daytime to catch the little sparkly waves on the surface.
• Visit Taquile Island, well-known for its handwoven fabrics, and interact with the craftspeople to learn their artworks. UNESCO has recognized their traditional textile art as a part of the world's cultural heritage.
• You can also purchase some unique souvenirs from there. 

Amazon Rainforest and Tambopata Reserve

The Amazon Rainforest isn't just in Brazil, because partially Peru holds a chunk of it too. Nature lovers, get ready to enjoy some strange, wild things in this UNESCO-recognized Tambopata National Reserve. If you’re lucky, you will also possibly see wild animals like macaws, giant river otters, and jaguars. You can trek into towers located high in the treetops. 

Also, take guided tours across dense forest trails. This activity is perfect for action lovers.

May to October are the ideal months to visit the Amazon because the weather is drier that time with clear skylines, and this also offers ideal conditions for hiking and river excursions. 

You are requested to try the Eco-friendly travel options. This is to preserve the environment as well as promoting the prosperity of neighborhoods. 

Huascarán National Park and the Cordillera Blanca

This park is situated in the Andes, is an ideal place for hikers who like tougher tasks. Above the Cordillera Blanca, you’ll find some of the tallest tropical mountains of Earth; some of them have heights over 6,000 meters. You can also see more than 80 rivers of ice which are flowing through the mountains. 

You can walk on the paths of Santa Cruz or circle Huayhuash, that will give you some breathtaking scenery because they pass through different mountain crossings.

Inside the park, you will also find Chavín de Huňar. This is a UNESCO-recognized site, and it dates to around 1500 BC. It provides walkthroughs through which you can uncover deep roots of local heritage.

Colca Canyon: Condors and Canyons

Find yourself in one of the lowest trenches on Earth which cuts deep into the ground. Hikers from all over Peru are drawn to Colca Canyon because of this. As you go higher, above the rocky edges,  you can see large Andean condors gliding on wind currents. This scene is often spotted during the dawn. Arequipa, a pale stone city known as "White City," is also located nearby.

Nazca Lines: Mysteries in the Desert

The Nazca Lines are old drawings carved into the desert ground which are hard to identify unless you're up in the sky. Some show creatures or flowers, others form geometrical sharp angles and lines, leaving experts to study the area for years. Flying over them gives the clearest and best view, so you can experience the full shape of these odd figures. 

Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain): Spectacular Andes Color Show

This spot feels unreal as nature displays colours like crimson, gold, lime, and many more hues painted across the slopes from ancient mineral buildup. It just came onto travelers’ knowledge not long ago but since then, its fame spreaded, and thus became a top rising outdoor site in Peru.

How to go:

• Start on a day trip from Cusco, about three hours by car, then several more hiking choosing paths that fits your pace and preference. While some trails are steeper, others are slow, so pick one based on your mood. Since timing changes per route, go with whatever feels right. Because the weather shifts quickly here, pack accordingly
• Don’t forget the camera for taking great pictures.

Other Must-See Attractions:

• If you enjoy riding buggies over hills or sliding down sandy slopes, Huacachina is a terrific place.
• Cajamarca, which has got ancient Inca roots, and to taste the tasty regional dishes.
• Barranco, Lima: a laid-back neighborhood full of small stores, pubs, also art spots.

Integrating Connectivity: Travel Smart in Peru; Capture & Share Your Peruvian Journey with SimCorner eSIM

Keep up with travel alerts, trip tips, and local insights while you check out Peru with our SimCorner's eSIM or regular SIM cards. From hiking the Inca Trail to exploring through the Sacred Valley, or just chilling in Lima, our data plans help you stay connected and send each part of your journey to your social mates. 

Look at our Peru SIM breakdown guidebook to learn how to stay online during top Peruvian experiences.

FAQs: Top 15 Things to do in Peru

Top worthy activities for visitors in Peru?

The top things to do in Peru can be trekking in Machu Picchu, exploring the Sacred Valley, riding boats on the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, hiking across the Andes, and getting lost into the Amazon Rainforest.

What’s worth seeing in Peru as a visitor?

Best attractions to explore in Peru are Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca, the Amazon Rainforest, or even the Nazca Lines. A combination of all these places will give you an experience of nature, old stories, and Peruvian life.

When’s the ideal time to go to Peru?

If your aim is visiting the mountains, most travellers opt between May and September as the weather is a bit more stable during that time. 

For enjoying the Amazon rainforest, many prefer to go there during November to March since the river levels rise and so boats can easily get through without much disruption. 

What to pack before a Peru trip?

Because Peruvian weather is unpredictable, bring different types of clothes. So, typically choose a rain jacket, sunscreen, hiking boots, and a water filter if you’ll walk on long paths. Also, don’t forget to bring your camera, or else you will miss out on taking shots of pretty views.

Remember to have good fitness and solid gears for tougher trekkings, and take it slow with the high altitude. Some of those passes can go over 4,000 meters. 

How can I stay connected in Peru?

Our SimCorner has both eSIMs or physical SIM cards options, perfect for staying online in Peru. Check out our Peru SIM tips to learn more.