Peru has a prehispanic rich culture, beautiful places to discover, wild nature, and an extraordinary and worldwide known …
Peru is a country rich in pre-Hispanic culture, filled with beautiful places to explore, wild nature, and extraordinary gastronomy renowned worldwide. The land of the Incas is a favorite destination for tourists from Latin America and beyond. However, there’s so much more to experience in Peru than just visiting Machu Picchu and eating ceviche. Let’s dive deeper into what Peru has to offer. Here are the 10 places you must visit on your next trip to Peru:
### 1. Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, also known as the Lost City of the Incas, is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and a must-see in Peru. This ancient Inca city, located 2,100 feet above sea level in the Andes, was hidden for centuries until it was rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911. Visitors can explore Machu Picchu either by embarking on a four-day, 40-kilometer trek through forests, valleys, and ancient paths or by taking a train to Aguas Calientes and then a bus or hike to the ruins. Hiring a guide is recommended to ensure you don’t miss any important highlights.
### 2. Cuzco
Cuzco was the capital of the Inca Empire and is now the capital of the Cuzco region and province. It is the heart of Quechua culture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. As one of the most visited cities in Peru, with over 2 million visitors annually, it serves as the starting point for those heading to Machu Picchu. Begin your exploration in the Plaza de Armas, surrounded by hotels, restaurants, shops, and historic sites. Notable landmarks include the Renaissance-style cathedral with its Baroque interior, the Compañía de Jesús Church, and the Church of Triumph. Tours often include visits to the historic wall, the Qurikancha (Temple of the Sun), the Santo Domingo Church, and the Sacsayhuaman fortress.
### 3. Lima
Lima, the capital and largest city of Peru, was founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535. With 300 years of Spanish influence, Lima is a blend of culture, history, and modernity. The city boasts beautiful cathedrals, churches, monasteries, and convents, as well as Inca architecture such as Huacas and Pachacámac. Visitors can also enjoy museums, art galleries, parks with light shows, malls, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Lima is renowned for its cuisine, which features diverse ingredients from the coast, mountains, and Amazon regions. Be sure to try the signature dish, ceviche!
### 4. Iquitos, Amazon Jungle
Iquitos, the capital of the Loreto department, is located in the northern Amazon region of Peru. Founded in 1539 and once known as El Dorado, Iquitos offers unique activities not found elsewhere in the country. Visitors can swim in rivers, hike through the jungle, observe its diverse flora and fauna, and admire stunning landscapes. Don’t miss La Casa de Hierro, a structure designed by the architect of the Eiffel Tower.
### 5. Nazca Lines
The Nazca Desert, located along the northern Pacific coast, is home to the famous Nazca Lines. These large drawings of spiders, monkeys, lizards, and human figures were created between 200 BC and 700 AD. The dry, stable climate has preserved these lines for centuries. You can view the lines from the sky by renting a plane or from an observation tower along the Pan-American Highway.
### 6. Lake Titicaca, Puno
Puno is a port city on Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. While the city itself may not be particularly attractive, it is the gateway to the famous floating islands of Amantani and Taquile. Amantani Island offers breathtaking views of the lake, and visitors can stay in traditional homes known as Los Uros. On Taquile Island, you can enjoy peaceful surroundings and local cuisine.
### 7. Chan-Chan, Trujillo
Trujillo, a moderate-sized city in northwestern Peru, is near the Pacific coast and was founded in 1534 among the Chimú settlements. The city is close to Chan-Chan, the largest mud city in the ancient world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The archaeological site of Chan-Chan spans about 20 square kilometers and was the capital of the Chimú culture. Nearby, in the district of Moche, are the Huacas del Sol and the Moon, other fascinating archaeological sites.
### 8. Laguna 69, Ancash
For a great weekend hike, head to Laguna 69 in Yungay. This trek offers stunning views, including waterfalls, rivers, lush vegetation, and the snowy peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. To make the most of your visit, consider hiring a tour from Huaraz.
### 9. Señor de Sipán, Chiclayo
The Museum of Royal Tombs of Sipán in Lambayeque is an impressive museum where you can see the gold and silver treasures from the Tomb of the Lord of Sipán. Located 35 kilometers southeast of Chiclayo, the tombs offer a glimpse into the ancient cultures of northern Peru, including the Vicus, Mochica, Lambayeque, and Chimú. The Brüning Archaeological Museum, located 12 kilometers away, showcases pottery, textiles, mummies, and exquisite gold pieces from these civilizations.
### 10. Huacachina, Ica
Located five hours south of Lima and five kilometers from Ica, Huacachina is an oasis in the Peruvian coastal desert. Once a popular resort in the 1940s and 50s, it remains a charming destination for adventure and romance. In Huacachina, you can visit wineries, take flights over the Nazca Lines, enjoy desert rides in off-road vehicles, and much more.
Peru is a country you cannot miss when visiting Latin America. It offers the Andes, the desert, the jungle, delicious food, and a rich ancient culture waiting to be discovered. So what are you waiting for? Start packing your bags and make Peru your next vacation destination!
