Top Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru
Peru is a land of enchantment, mystery, and adventure. It's a country with something for everyone, whether you're looking to explore ancient ruins, treks through the Amazon jungle, or soak up some sun on the beach. And with so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together this list of the top tourist attractions in Peru so that you can make the most of your trip. From Machu Picchu to Lake Titicaca and beyond, there's something for everyone in Peru. So start planning your trip today and get ready to explore one of the most amazing countries in the world!
Machu Picchu, Cusco
Machu Picchu is an ancient site located in the Cusco region of Peru. The site comprises several buildings and structures, including the famous Inti Watana stone. Machu Picchu was built by the Inca people and was used as a royal estate. The site was abandoned after the fall of the Inca Empire and was only rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. Today, Machu Picchu is one of Peru's most popular tourist destinations.
The Inca Trail, Cusco
The Inca Trail is a world-renowned hiking trail that leads to the lost city of Machu Picchu. The trail winds its way through some of the most stunning scenery in Peru and offers hikers the opportunity to see firsthand the remains of the Inca civilization.
Hiking the Inca Trail is an unforgettable experience and one that should not be missed by anyone visiting Peru. The trail can sometimes be challenging, but the rewards are more than worth it if you are up for the challenge.
Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, Cusco
Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, Cusco, should be on your list of places to visit in Peru. The views are breathtaking, and the hiking is excellent for all levels.
Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, is a mountain in the Peruvian Andes that has become a popular tourist destination due to its unique multicolored stripes. Minerals cause the stripes in the rock that have been weathered over time. Rainbow Mountain is located about 3 hours from Cusco and can be reached by either hiking or taking a guided tour on horseback.
Red Valley is another must-see when in Cusco. This valley gets its name from the red rocks that line the valley walls. It's an excellent place to hike, explore nature, and enjoy incredible views. Red Valley is located just 20 minutes from Rainbow Mountain.
Choquequirao, Cusco
Choquequirao is an Inca site in southern Peru, similar in structure and design to Machu Picchu. The site is located in the lush Apurimac River valley and consists of terraces, temples, an administrative complex, and residences. Choquequirao was built at the height of the Inca Empire and was used as a retreat for Inca royalty.
Hiram Bingham rediscovered the site in the early 20th century, bringing it to global attention. Today, Choquequirao is one of Peru's top tourist attractions. Visitors can explore the ruins, hike to spectacular views, and camp overnight at the site.
Ollantaytambo, Cusco
Ollantaytambo is a small town in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in the Cusco Region of Peru. It is about an hour and a half from Cusco by car or bus. The town is famous for its well-preserved Inca ruins, some of the most significant and best-preserved in all of Peru.
The ruins at Ollantaytambo consist of an extensive complex of terraces, temples, and baths, all built using huge blocks of stone. The site was initially constructed as a fort during the reign of the Inca emperor Pachacuti (1438-1471) and later served as a royal estate and country retreat. Today, the ruins are a popular tourist destination and provide visitors with a fascinating insight into Inca architecture and engineering.
In addition to its Inca ruins, Ollantaytambo is also home to several colonial-era churches and buildings, including the Iglesia de San Pedro Apostol, which was built on the site of an Inca temple. The town also has a lively market square where locals sell traditional textiles, crafts, and produce.
Manu National Park, Cusco & Madre dios
Manu National Park is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Situated in the southeastern region of Peru, this natural gem is home to an incredible array of plant and animal life. One of the best ways to experience all Manu has to offer is to go on an organized tour. These typically involve a few days of trekking through the jungle, followed by a boat trip. Along the way, you'll spot an abundance of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and potentially even jaguars! Cusco is the perfect base for exploring Manu National Park.
Humantay Lake, Cusco
Humantay Lake is situated at an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,780 ft) and is fed by glacial runoff. This beautiful, turquoise-colored lake is located at the Humantay mountain's base, providing a stunning photo backdrop. The lake is a popular spot for hiking and camping, and several tour operators offer day trips from Cusco. The hike to Humantay Lake is moderate in difficulty and takes around 3 hours to complete. The trail begins at the small village of Soraypampa, where your tour operator will likely drop you off. From here, it is a steady uphill climb through fields and forests until you reach the lake. The views from the top are well worth the effort, and you can even see some of the ruins of Machu Picchu in the distance on a clear day. A hike to Humantay Lake should be on your list if you visit Cusco. It is an easy way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience some of the stunning scenery this part of Peru has to offer.
Salineras of Maras, Cusco
The Salineras of Maras, Cusco are a series of ancient Inca salt pans located in the highlands of Peru. The salt pans are fed by a natural spring used for salt production for centuries. The salt is still harvested by hand using traditional methods. The Salineras is a popular tourist destination, offering a unique glimpse into the past. Visitors can watch the salt harvested and learn about the area's history. The Salineras is also a great place to take photos, as the views are stunning.
Sacsayhuaman, Cusco
Sacsayhuaman is an Inca fortress located just outside of Cusco. The fort is built on a hilltop with three massive walls protecting the city from invaders. The walls are made of huge stones that fit together perfectly without any mortar. Sacsayhuaman was the site of a major battle between the Incas and the Spanish in 1536. The Spaniards tried to conquer the Inca Empire, but the Incas defeated them. The Spanish lost over 1,000 men in the battle, while the Incas only lost around 200.
Nazca Lines, Ica
The Nazca Lines are one of the world's most mysterious and fascinating archaeological sites. These massive geoglyphs were created by the Nazca people of Peru, who carved huge designs into the desert floor. The lines are so big that they can only be seen from the air and depict animals, humans, and other objects. The Nazca lines are believed to have been created for religious or ceremonial purposes. Some experts think the lines may have been used as a giant astronomical calendar, while others believe they were part of a complex system of trade routes. Whatever their purpose, the Nazca lines are a fantastic example of human ingenuity and creativity.
Huacachina Lagoon, Ica
There's something otherworldly about Huacachina Lagoon. Tucked away in the desert of Ica, this oasis is a welcome respite from the arid landscape. The lagoon is fed by underground springs and surrounded by dunes perfect for sandboarding.
Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands, Ica
The Paracas National Reserve is a protected area home to various wildlife, including several species of birds and fish. The Ballestas Islands are an archipelago of small islands that are also home to diverse wildlife, including seals, penguins, and seabirds. The Paracas National Reserve was created in 1975 to protect the area's unique ecosystem. The reserve is home to various plant and animal life, including several species found nowhere else on Earth. The account is also home to several geological sites, which provide insight into the history of Ballestas Islands, a group of small islands located off the coast of Ica. The islands are home to various wildlife, including seals, penguins, and seabirds. The islands are also home to several archaeological sites providing insight into the area's history.
Tambopata National Reserve, Madre de Dios
Tambopata National Reserve is a protected area in Puerto Maldonado. It was created in 2000. The Tambopata National Reserve is home to various wildlife, including jaguars, tapirs, capybaras, red howler monkeys, and macaws. The reserve also contains many archaeological sites belonging to the region's ancient cultures. Activities available in the account include bird watching, wildlife viewing, hiking, and canoeing.
Lake Sandoval, Madre de Dios
Lake Sandoval is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including giant otters, caiman, piranhas, and various bird species. A visit to Lake Sandoval is a truly unique experience. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake to see the wildlife up close or hike through the surrounding rainforest to spot animals in their natural habitat. Several lodges and campsites also exist, so visitors can stay overnight and explore the region further.
Lake Titicaca, Puno
Lake Titicaca is located in the country's southeastern region, at an altitude of 3,812 meters (12,507 feet). It is the largest lake in South America and the highest navigable lake in the world. Puno is the capital of the Puno Region and the seat of the Lake Titicaca National Reserve. The city was founded in 1668 by viceroy Pedro Antonio Fernández de Castro y Toledo. It has a population of around 140,000 people. The lake is home to several indigenous groups, including the Aymara and Quechua. There are also many floating islands on the lake made from reeds. Tourism is one of the leading industries in Puno. Visitors see the lake and its islands and experience the local people's culture. There are many tour operators offering boat trips and other activities.
Sillustani, Puno
Sillustani is a pre-Inca burial ground located on a Lake Titicaca peninsula near Puno in southeastern Peru. The site consists of a group of funerary towers, or chullpas, built by the Colla people between the 13th and 15th centuries. The chullpas at Sillustani are some of the largest and best-preserved examples of this type of funerary architecture. They range in height from 12 to over 30 meters (39 to 98 feet) and are constructed from blocks of local stone. Each chullpa has a small doorway through which the deceased's body is placed. The chullpas at Sillustani is thought to have been used for the burial of elite members of Colla society. The site is currently a popular tourist destination used by residents for traditional ceremonies.
Amazon River, Loreto
Loreto is the capital city of the Loreto Region in Peru. It is located on the Amazon River in the country's northeastern part. The city has a population of about 40,000 people.
The Amazon River is South America's largest river and the world's second-longest river. It flows through nine countries: Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela. The Amazon River is more than 6,400 kilometers long and has a more than 7 million square kilometers drainage basin.
The Loreto Region is home to many ethnic groups, including indigenous peoples such as the Asháninka, Bora, Huitoto, and Shipibo-Conibo. The region is also home to many animals, including monkeys, sloths, caimans, and anacondas.
Pacaya Samiria, Loreto
Pacaya Samiria, Loreto, is one of the top tourist attractions in Peru. It is a national park that covers an area of 5,521 square kilometers. The park is home to various animals, including monkeys, sloths, birds, and reptiles. Visitors can also find a variety of plants, trees, and flowers.
Pacaya Samiria was created to protect the Amazon rainforest and its inhabitants. The park is located in the Loreto Region of Peru, home to some of the most biodiverse rainforests in the world. In addition to its natural beauty, Pacaya Samiria is also home to several indigenous peoples. These people have lived in the rainforest for centuries and have a deep knowledge of its plants and animals.
If you're looking for an unforgettable experience in Peru, add Pacaya Samiria Loreto to your list!
Kuelap Fortres, Amazonas
Kuelap is an ancient Inca fortress located in the Chachapoyas region of Peru. The fortress is situated on a mountaintop at an altitude of 3,000 meters and is surrounded by cloud forests. The fortress was built in the 15th century and was home to the Chachapoya people. Kuelap was rediscovered in 1843 by the German explorer Johann von Hassel and has since been restored. Today, the fortress is a popular tourist attraction and one of Peru's most important archaeological sites.
Gocta Waterfall, Amazonas
The Gocta Waterfall is one of the top tourist attractions in Peru. It is located in the Amazonas region and is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. The waterfall is 2,531 feet (771 meters) high and is one of the tallest waterfalls in South America. The Gocta Waterfall is a must-see for any traveler to Peru.
Colca canyon, Arequipa
The Colca Canyon is a popular tourist destination in Peru. The canyon is located in the Andes mountain range and is one of the deepest canyons in the world. The Colca River runs through the canyon, with numerous hiking trails and lookout points. Visitors can also take part in activities such as rafting, zip-lining, and camping.
Arequipa historical center
If you are looking for a place to get a feel for the history and culture of Peru, be sure to visit the historical center of Arequipa. This area is home to many of the city's most important landmarks, including the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral of Arequipa, and the Monastery of Santa Catalina.
The Plaza de Armas is the central square of Arequipa and has been the site of many important events in the city's history. The cathedral dates back to the 16th century and is one of Peru's most important religious buildings. The monastery of Santa Catalina is a large complex built in the 17th century and contains many beautiful examples of colonial architecture.
These are just a few highlights you can enjoy when visiting Arequipa's historical center. Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore all that this area has to offer!
Lima's Historical Center
Lima's Historical Center is one of Peru's most popular tourist destinations. The area is home to many of the country's most important historical sites, as well as a variety of shops, restaurants, and hotels.
Some of the most popular attractions in Lima's Historic Center include the Plaza de Armas (the main square), the Cathedral of Lima, the Presidential Palace, and the San Francisco Church. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of museums, including the Museum of Art and the National Museum.
There are several excellent hotels if you're looking for a place to stay in Lima's Historical Center. The JW Marriott Hotel Lima is a luxurious option, while the Hilton Garden Inn Lima Miraflores is a perfect choice for budget-minded travelers.
Catacombs of San Francisco Solano
The Catacombs of San Francisco Solano is one of the top tourist attractions in Peru. These catacombs are located in the city of Cusco and were used by the Incas as a burial ground for their nobility. The Catacombs of San Francisco Solano is a must-see for anyone visiting Cusco and provide a unique look into the culture and history of the Inca people.
Caral, Lima
Nestled on the central coast of Peru, Lima is home to a wealth of historical and cultural attractions. Among the most popular tourist destinations in the town is Caral, an ancient site that dates back to the early years of Peruvian civilization.
The ruins of Caral are spread across a wide area, with various pyramids and temples dotting the landscape. The most impressive structure at the site is the Great Pyramid of Caral, which towers over the surrounding buildings. Visitors to Caral can explore the pyramids and temples and view the nearby ocean.
In addition to its archaeological importance, Caral is a popular birdwatching spot. The area is home to various bird species, including several hummingbirds. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and picnicking on the nearby hillsides.
Mancora, Piura
Mancora is a town in northwestern Peru that's known for its beaches. Visitors to Mancora can enjoy swimming, surfing, windsurfing, and other water sports. The city is also a good base for exploring the nearby archaeological site of El Brujo and the pre-Inca ruins of MOCE.
Ancient City of Chan Chan, Trujillo
Chan Chan is the largest adobe city in the world and was once the capital of the ancient Chimu civilization. The city covers an area of nearly 20 square kilometers and is home to numerous palaces, temples, and other structures.
The city was founded around 850 AD and peaked around 1400 AD. At its height, Chan Chan had a population of over 60,000 people. However, by the time the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, the city had been abandoned.
Today, Chan Chan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient city, including some of the best-preserved examples of adobe architecture in South America.
The Baths of the Inca, Cajamarca
The Baths of the Inca in Cajamarca, Peru, are one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. The baths are located in a natural hot spring and are said to have therapeutic properties. Visitors can enjoy the baths year-round, but they are trendy during the colder months.
Huascaran National Park, Ancash
Huascaran National Park is a protected area in the central Andes of Peru. The park is home to Huascaran, the highest mountain in Peru. Huascaran National Park was established in 1975 and inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1985.
The park covers an area of 340,000 hectares and includes two central ice-capped mountains, Huascarán and Alpamayo. Huascaran is the highest peak in Peru, at 6,768 meters above sea level. Alpamayo is considered one of the world's most beautiful mountains.
The park is home to various flora and fauna, including several species of birds and mammals. The park's climate varies depending on altitude but is generally cold and wet.
Huascaran National Park is a popular destination for climbers and trekkers from all over the world. The park offers a variety of hiking and climbing trails, as well as views of some of the most stunning scenery in Peru.
Chavin de Huantar, Ancash
Chavin de Huantar was one of Peru's most important religious and political centers during the Chavin culture. The site is located in the Ancash region of central Peru, in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range. The main architectural features of the site are the plazas, temples, and a large underground complex.
The Plaza Mayor is the largest and most important plaza at Chavin de Huantar. It was here that religious ceremonies and rituals were conducted. The plaza is surrounded by several temples, including the Temple of the Feline Heads, decorated with carved feline heads.
The underground complex at Chavin de Huantar comprises a series of tunnels and chambers. It was here that pilgrims would undergo ritualistic initiations. The most famous chamber is the Lanzon Room, which contains a large carved stone pillar known as the Lanzon.