Attractions in Peru - Top 10 Most Popular Attractions

Peru can confidently be regarded as one of the most diverse countries in South America. The former Inca Empire stretches from the Amazon to the Pacific coast. In between lie the majestic Andes mountains on one side and barren sandy deserts on the other. All contain fascinating evidence of past high cultures.

Discover the impressive diversity of Peru through the 10 most beautiful attractions in the country that we have compiled for you here.

The Inca ruin Machu Picchu is not only the most famous landmark in Peru but one of the most extraordinary attractions worldwide. This UNESCO World Heritage site is among the best-preserved ancient ruins in the world.

Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century on the 2,430 m high peak of the same name. Due to its height, the city is invisible from the Urubamba Valley that surrounds it. This circumstance likely allowed it to remain undiscovered by Spanish conquerors, keeping the ruins intact to this day.

The legendary Inca Trail connects Machu Picchu with Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. Today, it is the most spectacular way to reach Machu Picchu. The multi-day camping tour through stunning mountain scenery serves as the perfect introduction to visiting the Inca ruin. Alternatively, Machu Picchu can also be comfortably reached by train.

The name Machu Picchu comes from the Quechua language and means Old Peak.

Lake Titicaca is the largest lake in South America-assuming we do not include Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela, as it is connected to the sea-and is located right on the border between Peru and Bolivia. With its beautiful nature, it is perfect for some relaxing days by the water.

Due to its location in the Andes, the freshwater lake reaches an altitude of 3,810 m. This is especially apparent when you see the snow-capped peaks that surround it. Thus, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world.

The departure point for stays on the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca is the small port city of Puno. From here, one has a wonderful view over the water and can relax on one of the numerous sandy beaches. However, swimming is not recommended due to the icy water.

From Puno, you can also take a trip to the Uros' reed islands, whose culture is older than that of the Incas.

The Peruvian Amazon is considerably smaller than that of Brazil, but it is undoubtedly worth a visit. Whether hiking through the jungle, tours to the region's wildlife, or an unusual activity like piranha fishing followed by a meal, there's no risk of boredom in the Amazon region.

The main stop in the Peruvian jungle is the city of Iquitos. The adventure starts with your arrival, as Iquitos cannot be reached by road. Instead, you travel by boat or plane. Along with numerous jungle activities and tropical temperatures, you'll also find a rich music and food culture here.

Another good starting point for Amazon tours is the town of Puerto Maldonado with its many jungle lodges. Or you can book a boat trip with hammock overnight stays along the Amazon, possibly even reaching Brazil if time permits.

Situated near the city of Arequipa is the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. At certain points, the canyon wall rises a full 3,300 m. Thus, the Colca Canyon is twice as deep as the famous Grand Canyon in the USA.

The majestic beauty of the Colca Canyon is best appreciated through trekking and mountain biking. Traditional villages are scattered along the slopes of the canyon, inviting you to take a break. From there, you have a breathtaking view of the canyon. With some luck, you might even spot one of the condors that live here.

In the valleys of the Colca Canyon are the hot thermal springs of Chivay. The mineral-rich water is said to have healing properties. Whether that is true or not, it is relaxing nonetheless.

The nearby city of Arequipa, with its colonial architecture, is also worth a visit.

Cusco is not only the starting point for tours to Machu Picchu; the city in the Andes is also a remarkable attraction in itself. As the oldest continuously inhabited city in South America, it boasts numerous cultural and archaeological highlights.

Cusco was built by the Incas in the shape of a puma, with its heart located at the central Plaza de Armas. This square is still considered one of the most beautiful in the country. It is surrounded by narrow cobblestone streets, colonial mansions, and ancient ruins. Many of Cusco's buildings are built on the foundations of massive Inca walls.

In addition to Machu Picchu, there are many other remarkable ruins and archaeological sites in the vicinity of Cusco. Day trips to the Sacred Valley or the Inca fortress of Sacsayhuamán are particularly worthwhile. More in-depth information about Cusco's history can also be found in the city's Inca Museum.

The Andean city of Huaraz is not popular so much for itself but rather for its spectacular location in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range. Nature enthusiasts are unlikely to find a better place for hiking and climbing tours.

Huaraz itself is located at an elevation of 3,100 m, while the peaks surrounding it are over 6,000 m high. However, since the city is also situated in the tropics, there is no snow up to an elevation of 5,000 m. Hiking routes of varying lengths and difficulties lead from Huaraz through the mountains and past picturesque mountain lakes.

Thanks to the many different routes, hikers and climbers of all experience levels can find something to suit them in Huaraz. For experienced climbers, there are options for ice climbing or summiting Huascarán, the highest mountain in Peru at 6,768 m.

Between about 200 and 700 AD, members of the ancient Nazca culture created huge drawings extending several kilometers across the dry desert area of the Pampa Colorada. To this day, these drawings remain a great mystery for archaeologists.

The Nazca Lines consist of over 800 straight lines, 300 geometric figures, and 70 depictions of animals and plants. Due to the vast dimensions of the drawings, they can only be recognized from great heights. This is why they were only discovered in the 1920s when the first flight route between Lima and Arequipa was established.

To this day, archaeologists have not been able to explain the purpose for which the lines were created. However, there are several theories that are explained at the Maria Reiche Museum, which is located near the Nazca Lines along the Panamerican Highway.

The small oasis village Huacachina is located about four hours south of Lima. Originally, wealthy Peruvians used the oasis for wellness vacations, as the lagoon in its center was said to have healing properties due to its high mineral content.

Today, the lagoon is hardly suitable for swimming due to falling water levels, but Huacachina has found other ways to attract tourists. The surrounding sand dunes are perfect for sandboarding or buggy rides. Afterward, visitors can relax by the hotel pool and enjoy the year-round good weather.

The capital of Peru does not have the best international reputation. It is considered loud, dirty, and dangerous. However, this negative labeling overlooks the fact that Lima has much culture, history, and other attractions to offer that make a stay in the city worthwhile.

The center of Lima is characterized by historical colonial buildings and, thanks to its elevated position, offers a good view of the city. The Barranco district has established itself as an artistic neighborhood with a lively nightlife, while the affluent Miraflores district impresses with its stunning cliffside location and countless shopping options.

As a desert city, which is actually the second-largest in the world, Lima enjoys good weather year-round and very little rain. At the same time, the city is located right on the Pacific coast. The paths above the coastal cliffs are perfect for jogging, cycling, or walking.

Lima's cuisine is known to be the best on the continent, so be sure to try one of the many excellent restaurants.

A 90-minute boat ride takes you from the spectacular cliffs of Peru to the Ballestas Islands, which are known for their impressive biodiversity. The entire archipelago is protected as a nature reserve.

Depending on whom you ask, the Ballestas Islands are either referred to as 'Compact Galápagos' or 'Galápagos for the Poor.' Presumably, the Ballestas Islands cannot quite compare to their famous counterpart, yet they are still worth a visit- and significantly cheaper.

The Ballestas Islands are home to numerous animals. With a bit of luck, you can spot dolphins during the crossing. On the islands themselves, you can find among others:

Peru combines diverse, breathtaking landscapes with rich history and an excellent cuisine. Whether you're climbing in the Andes, taking a detour to the desert, or visiting the world-famous Machu Picchu, this diverse country will make every vacation an unforgettable experience.