15 Best Places to Visit in Peru
Last Updated on January 24, 2025
Planning a trip to Peru but have no idea where to go? Having traveled all over Peru, we have come up with this list of best places to visit Peru.
Peru is the stuff of dreams: ancient ruins remain immaculately preserved on the high-altitude mountains of the Sacred Valley, alpacas roam freely in charming cobblestoned villages, and the beautifully-dressed indigenous people continue to live the way their ancestors have done for centuries. Few countries in South America have managed to retain their pre-Hispanic culture and traditions as well as Peru has.
We first traveled Peru more than 10 years ago when we were young backpackers, and recently returned with our daughter in tow to show her one of our favorite countries in the world. She too fell in love with Peru, which was not difficult, considering Peru is jampacked with so many bucket-list worthy sights: from the world-renown Machu Picchu to the Sacred Valley, Amazon Rainforest, and Ica Desert. In this article, I will share the best places to visit in Peru.
Table of Contents
- Best Places to Visit in Peru
- 1. Huaraz: A Trekker’s Paradise
- 2. Lima: South America’s Gastronomic Capital
- 3. Paracas: Rich Wildlife and Gateway to Ballestas Islands
- 4. Huacachina: The Stunning Desert Oasis
- 5. Nazca Lines: Peru’s Mysterious Geoglyphs
- 6. Arequipa: The White City
- 7. Puno: Peru’s Folkloric Capital and Lake Titicaca
- 8. Cusco: The Archaeological Capital of South America
- 9. Machu Picchu: One of the Seven Wonders of the World
- 10. Chan Chan: The Clay Empire
- 11. Kuélap: The Lost Citadel
- 12. Catarata de Gocta: Peru’s Verdant Falls
- 13. Laguna Parón: The Crown Jewel of the Andes
- 14. Caral: Oldest Civilization in the Americas
- 15. Marcahuamachuco: The Ancient Fortress
- Planning Your Trip
Best Places to Visit in Peru
Peru is a land of striking contrasts, where the arid coastal plains give way to the towering Andes Mountains and descend into the lush Amazon Rainforest. It’s a paradise for history enthusiasts, as the remnants of the Inca Empire—epitomized by the iconic Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley—tell captivating tales of ancient times.
I personally think it’s easy to travel around Peru independently. But if you don’t speak Spanish or are traveling Peru with kids, your best bet is to book a guided tour. There are lots of responsible tour operators that run educational and immersive tours around Peru. Peru Grand Travel offers a wide range of experiences that showcase the country’s most impressive sites. Half of the places on this list are quite hard to reach, and a tour operator can help handle your all the logistics.
Here’s a look at some of the best places to visit in Peru:
1. Huaraz: A Trekker’s Paradise
Pack your adventurous spirit and head south to Huaraz, one of the highest cities in Peru located 3,052 meters above sea level. Besides its traditional flair (where locals roam the streets in hand-woven ponchos with their llamas in toll), Huaraz is a mecca for climbers and mountaineers. The town is the gateway to the surrounding Cordillera Blanca, a spectacular mountain range with peaks soaring over 6,000 meters,
There are many trekking routes you can do: from multi-day treks to day hikes like the iconic journey to Laguna 69. The five-hour trek to this glacier lake at 4,600 meters takes you through valleys framed by waterfalls, glaciers, and grazing cows. You’ll find plenty of tours to take you climbing into the Andes, as well as shops renting and selling equipment.
2. Lima: South America’s Gastronomic Capital
Most travelers coming to Peru will arrive in Lima, the capital city. While many travelers tend to avoid Lima due to its metropolitan nature, I actually think it’s a great place to start or end your Peru trip because of the world-class restaurants, museums and beaches here.
Lima is the gastronomic crown jewel of Peru and arguably all of South America. It’s home to several winners in the World’s 50 Best Restaurant 2025. Ranking #5 on the list is Maido, that serves a contemporary fusion of Peruvian and Japanese cuisine. Here, traditional Japanese techniques intertwine seamlessly with Peruvian ingredients to create an unforgettable dining experience that tantalizes the taste buds.
The Peruvian capital is more than a feast for your palate—it’s a playground for history buffs and thrill-seekers alike. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant streets, and endless activities, time seems to fly in this bustling metropolis. Check out my comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Lima.
Huaca Pucllana: Ancient Ruins
Did you know that there’s an ancient ruin right in the heart of the capital? Head to Huaca Pucllana, an ancient adobe and clay pyramid that was once the ceremonial center of the Lima Culture. The Lima culture was one of the most advanced cultures in pre-Columbian Peru.
The site is now a protected archaeological park, and you can visit Huaca Pucllana on a guided tour, which includes a walk around the archaeological site.
The Monasterio de San Francisco: Catacombs and Baroque Masterpiece
The Monasterio de San Francisco in Lima is a striking baroque masterpiece, instantly recognizable by its bright-yellow facade. This Franciscan monastery holds the remains of an estimated 70,000 individuals, making it a hauntingly fascinating experience. Equally impressive is the monastery’s library, home to 25,000 antique texts, including rare manuscripts predating the Spanish conquest.
One of the most unique things to do in Lima is a visit to the underground catacomb at the Monasterio de San Francisco. This 17th-century monastery is one of the city’s most important historical sites, and its catacombs are said to be the largest in all of South America.
The entrance ticket comes with a free tour, which takes you through the various parts of the monastery before descending into the dark tunnels of the catacombs. You’ll see bones and skulls lining the walls. It’s a little bit eerie but also very fascinating.
3. Paracas: Rich Wildlife and Gateway to Ballestas Islands
Few places allow you to lounge by the ocean one moment and marvel at towering dunes the next, in the company of incredible wildlife. With a modest population of around 10,000, Paracas punches well above its weight in offering unforgettable experiences. From exploring the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands to discovering hidden lagoons nestled among vast dunes, Paracas is a haven of spectacular landscapes and endless discoveries.
From Paracas, you can catch a boat to the Ballestas Islands. Nicknamed “the poor man’s Galapagos”, the rocky islands have gained popularity in recent years. It’s easy and cheap to visit these islands, and those dreaming of going to the Galapagos will find the trip a nice compromise.
4. Huacachina: The Stunning Desert Oasis
Huacachina is a stunning desert oasis just five hours from Lima. Here, the golden dunes stretch endlessly, offering the perfect backdrop for thrilling dune buggy rides and sandboarding escapades. The sun shines year-round, making it an irresistible escape from Lima’s often overcast skies.
Surrounded by colossal sand dunes, the oasis is nestled around the Huacachina Lagoon, with waters that are believed to have therapeutic properties. There’s a small town right in the heart of the oasis, fringed by palm trees and lined with restaurants. Make sure to see the sunset from the top of the dunes, it’s a breathtaking experience.
5. Nazca Lines: Peru’s Mysterious Geoglyphs
Etched into the desert plains of one of the driest regions in the world, Nazca lines are believed to hold religious significance. Officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994, these geoglyphs remain as fascinating as they are mysterious, captivating historians and travelers alike.
Spanning 80 kilometers, the lines vary in size from 30 to 200 meters and depict animals like monkeys, lizards, and sharks. The best way to fully appreciate these ancient artworks is from above, with 30-minute flights offered by tour companies for around $80. There’s also a viewing tower that offers an elevated vantage point to see up to three of the lines.
6. Arequipa: The White City
Arequipa is one of Peru’s most picturesque cities, littered with elegant architecture and cobblestoned streets, backdropped by towering mountains and hazy volcanoes.. Among its many treasures are photogenic plazas lined by palm trees, colonial-era architecture that have earned the city its UNESCO World Heritage title, and regional dishes.
Arequipa is nicknamed the “White City” or “Ciudad Blanca” because of sillar, petrified ash from decades worth of volcanic eruptions that is used as the primary building material for Arequipa’s churches and mansions.
If you can drag yourself away, take a side-trip to the vast Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest at 10, 470 feet (3,191 meters). Chivay is the hub of the valley; just a four-hour bus ride away. In the valley, sign up for a multi-day trek to visit small remote villages, and watch the rare Andean Condor soar gracefully in the sky and llamas roam freely amidst dry scrubs. Here you can book tickets in advance for Colca Canyon Full-Day Guided Tour.
7. Puno: Peru’s Folkloric Capital and Lake Titicaca
Puno is known as Peru’s capital folklórica (folkloric capital). It is a treasure trove of history and mysticism nestled on the shores of the majestic Lake Titicaca. According to ancient lore, this sacred lake birthed the children of the Sun; Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo. These emerged to civilize the masses and laid the foundations of the mighty Inca Empire.
As a commercial hub, its colonial and naval history can be glimpsed in its spots of old architecture, traditional dress worn by many inhabitants, and the scores of young cadets in the streets. A 30-minute boat ride from Puno takes you on Lake Titicaca to Uros Island, one of the many floating islands built out of reeds.
It’s said that the islands were created by the Uros people to escape attacks on the mainland. The families living on the island will show you around their home, which is all made of reed. One of the most interesting things you’ll do is ride on the dragon boat, also made entirely of reed, for an additional 10 soles (US$2.60) per person. Consider taking this full-day tour.
8. Cusco: The Archaeological Capital of South America
Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cuzco oozes historical charm, and packs in a fusion of regal architecture and bohemian atmosphere. The city has an eclectic culinary scene, and there’s no better place to treat yourself to some Peruvian delicacies like cuy or barbecued guinea pig, and the local cocktail, Pisco Sour. Also known as Qosq’o in Quechua, this is the gateway to Peru’s most famous sight – Machu Picchu (read below).
As the oldest continuously inhabited city on the continent, Cusco is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, colonial architecture and a hodepodge of markets and cultural spots that honor Peruvian traditions. Here, ornate cathedrals sit atop Inca temples, and the cobblestone streets bustle with both luxury boutiques and street vendors. Here are a few exciting things to do in Cusco.
9. Machu Picchu: One of the Seven Wonders of the World
As one of the seven modern wonders of the world, Machu Picchu has remained incredibly well preserved thanks to its remote location on the mountaintops of the Sacred Valley in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru.
Perched at 7,979 feet (2,430 m) on a mountain ridge, it is believed that the ruins’ natural setting is as important to the site as the buildings themselves. Recent research has shown that the site’s location, and the orientation of its most important structures, was strongly influenced by the location of nearby holy mountains.
In fact, Machu Picchu is just one of the many Inca ruins you can find in the Sacred Valley. The Ollantaytambo archaeological site, for instance, is an impressive area with the ruins of Emperor Pachacuti’s palace. Here’s my detailed guide to visiting Machu Picchu.
10. Chan Chan: The Clay Empire
Built around AD 1300, Chan Chan is the largest pre-Columbian city in the Americas and the largest adobe city in the world. It covers a sprawling 20 square kilometers. Although the devastating El Niño floods have caused severe erosion of much of its outer portions, the site still offers a glimpse into its former grandeur.
The restored Palacio Nik An complex is a highlight of every trip here. With its broad plazas, royal burial chambers, and intricate designs, it showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of the Chimú civilization. As I walked through the maze of walls, I couldn’t help but imagine the bustling streets and vibrant life that once thrived within these adobe walls.
11. Kuélap: The Lost Citadel
Dubbed the “Machu Picchu of the North,” Kuélap is a hidden gem, perched high in the cloud forests of northern Peru. This awe-inspiring archaeological site, built by the Chachapoyas, boasts a towering 20-meter-high stone wall encircling its mountaintop fortress.
Despite its grandeur and historical significance, Kuélap has yet to draw the crowds of its southern counterpart. That’s partly due to the fact that until recently, the only way to reach the site was on foot. However, for the early trotters who made the effort, the journey is well worth it.
They not only glimpsed into Peru’s pre-Hispanic past but also got breathtaking views of the rugged, mist-draped landscape. Today, a modern cable car now whisks visitors up the mountain in just 20 minutes from Nuevo Tingo, making Kuélap more accessible than ever.
12. Catarata de Gocta: Peru’s Verdant Falls
Hidden deep in the Peruvian Amazon, the Catarata de Gocta (Gocta Waterfalls) is a natural wonder that has only recently captured the world’s attention. At 771 meters, this towering cascade ranks among the highest waterfalls globally, yet it remained undiscovered by modern explorers until less than 20 years ago.
Its dramatic plunge through a verdant tapestry of tropical vegetation creates an awe-inspiring symphony that resonates throughout the forest. To reach this enchanting spot, you’ve to embark on a five-hour trek (round trip) from the nearby villages of Cochachimba or San Pablo. Consider taking one of these tours.
The journey weaves through the verdant forest teeming with birds, woolly monkeys, and even the elusive spectacled bear. Along the way, orchids bloom in radiant splendor, adding bursts of color and a sense of magic to this unforgettable journey.
13. Laguna Parón: The Crown Jewel of the Andes
Found within the majestic Cordillera Blanca in Huascarán National Park, Laguna Parón is a pristine gem that captures the essence of natural beauty and adventure. It’s the largest lake in this snowcapped Andean range and stretches about 17.1 square miles. Its striking turquoise waters—colored by dissolved lime—offer a breathtaking contrast to the surrounding snow-blanketed peaks.
Among them is Artesonraju, the pyramid-shaped summit said to have inspired the iconic Paramount Pictures logo. Located 62 miles north of Huaraz, this UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 is a paradise for hikers, rock climbers, and serenity seekers alike.
At 4,185 meters above sea level, you can meditate on its tranquil shores, paddle a kayak through its glassy surface, or pitch a tent under starlit skies. Accessible by car or on foot however, most people arrive here via guided tours from Huaraz or Caraz.
14. Caral: Oldest Civilization in the Americas
Long before the rise of the Maya and Inca empires, and even before metal or ceramics were invented, the Caral civilization flourished on Peru’s coast. It’s estimated to have lived here between 3000-1800 BCE, making it the oldest known civilization in the Americas.
Often referred to as Norte Chico, Caral’s urban center—a vast complex spanning over 150 acres—was constructed around the same time as Egypt’s earliest pyramids. Perched on arid desert land overlooking the fertile Supe Valley, its well-preserved ruins showcase sophisticated architectural achievements. These include; sunken circular plazas, a towering 28-meter-high temple, and carefully planned residential and elite structures.
Despite its historical significance and designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Caral sees remarkably few visitors. To get there, drive north along the Pan-American Highway for about 115 miles from the capital. The effort is well worth it if you want to see one of the oldest civilizations.
15. Marcahuamachuco: The Ancient Fortress
Perched atop a windswept plateau, Marcahuamachuco is a sprawling archaeological wonder that captivates with its grandeur and mystery. Dating back to around 400 BC, this 3km-long site features massive defensive walls and towering ceremonial structures, believed to have been a hub for religious worship.
Surrounded by sacred mountain peaks thought to house the gods, it drew diverse communities from across the Huamachuco lands. To get there, you’ll drive for 10km along a rugged dirt road from the town of Huamachuco. You can hire private vehicles for S60–S80 or take a taxi one way and enjoy a scenic walk back. The journey is worth it—few places blend history, spirituality, and breathtaking views quite like Marcahuamachuco.
Planning Your Trip
Peru is such a unique and spectacular country with epic experiences and world-renown attractions for the adventure traveler. I hope this list of places to visit in Peru to see will help you plan your own adventure.
Be sure to leave a comment below if you have any questions. We’ll be happy to help in any way we can!
Looking for more tips to plan your trip to Peru? Take a look at some of our other posts:
- How to Get to Machu Picchu
- 30 Cool Things to Do in Lima, Peru
- 18 Fun Things to Do in Cusco, Peru
- My Guide to the Sacred Valley, Peru
- How to Visit the Peruvian Amazon
- Peru with Kids
- 2-Week Ecuador Itinerary
- 10-Day Colombia Itinerary
- 2-Week Argentina Itinerary
- 2-Week Chile Itinerary
- 10-Day Peru Itinerary
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. I’ll get a small commission when you book anything through my links, at NO extra cost to you. I only recommend companies I have personally used and enjoyed.
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