May 30, 2018
|Last updated on March 23rd, 2021 at 09:52 am
Top Destinations in Peru
Looking for the top destinations in Peru, but you’re not sure where to go? No need to worry! We’ve put together a list of our top Peru destinations. Discover which place speaks most to you and make the trip down south. From Machu Picchu, Cusco, Miraflores, Cordillera Blanca, Nazca Lines, Iquitos, Kuelap, Huacachina, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa, & Colca Canyon, Peru truly has it all. Today, let’s start exploring!
1. Machu Picchu
It’s no surprise that Machu Picchu is on our top destinations in Peru list. Machu Picchu tours attract tourists from around the world due to its mysterious stone monuments, incredible Incan history, and unique, mountainous terrain. Trek to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail or transfer by Peru train from Aguas Calientes. Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is best for young and adventurous travelers, taking them directly through the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu. While visiting, learn about the history of the Incas from a local, expert guide and discover what makes Machu Picchu so special.
2. Cusco
Next up on our top destinations in Peru list is, of course, Cusco. Cusco is the foremost city of the Inca Empire. Cusco has also made it on our list as one of the top tourist destinations in Peru! Travelers will likely never skip the opportunity to visit Cusco while exploring Peru. Especially since the cosmopolitan Inca capital is a gateway to Machu Picchu. On a Cusco tour, visit the old city square and see the beautiful, Spanish colonial architecture. There are also plenty of day trips around Cusco Peru, available to tourists. Take a Maras Moray half-day tour or embark on a Cusco to Ollantaytambo Tour!
3. Cordillera Blanca
Third, on our list is the Cordillera Blanca. Why do people visit the Cordillera Blanca? The Cordillera Blanca mountain range in Peru is an incredible destination for Peru adventure tours. Go trekking, hiking, mountaineering, biking, or climbing here! Explore the land that boasts beautiful lakes, winding trails, plant species, and more. The Cordillera Blanca is the perfect place to get off the beaten path in Peru and reconnect with nature.
4. Miraflores
The next item on our list of the top Peru destinations is Miraflores. The Miraflores District in Lima, Peru is an exclusive, upscale district of downtown Lima. This area is considered to be one of the most affluent parts of Lima. Many Lima city tours end in the Miraflores District due to the array of activities offered. Guests enjoy exploring the local shops and boutiques and walking the trail paths down by the water. Some people even opt for Miraflores hang-gliding tours of the surrounding area!
5. Nazca Lines
The Nazca Lines in Peru is without a doubt, an archaeological wonder. The Nazca Lines are a series of large ancient geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert in southern Peru. Etched into the high desert of southern Peru, the Nazca Lines continue to capture the attention of travelers and inspire others. Come here and learn about Nazca Lines facts, the Nazca Lines mystery, and take plenty of Nazca Lines pictures.
6. Iquitos
Iquitos, also known as Iquitos City, is an exotic destination in the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest and next up on our compilation of the top destinations in Peru. This Peruvian port city is the gateway to the remote jungle lodges and tribal villages of the northern Amazonian region. While here, guests often visit Belén, a district in Iquitos known for its open-air street market, rustic stilt houses, and more.
7. Kuelap
People are calling Kuelap, an up and coming Peru destination, the “next Machu Picchu.” Kuelap is taking some of the press away from Machu Picchu, as an incredible ancient ruin. The homeland of the Chachapoya warriors was built between 600 and 900 years before Machu Picchu. This city was once a difficult destination to visit, but now with a new cable car installed, the journey to Kuelap is easier than ever. Discover the fascinating history of the Chachapoyas and this walled settlement located in the mountains near the towns of Maria and Tingo on your next Peru tour.
8. Huacachina
Huacachina Peru is a desert oasis and tiny village in southwestern Peru. Here, travelers can participate in the dune buggy or sandboarding tours. Travel at high speeds deep into the desert and see the incredible terrain of Huacachina. At night, explore the small village and all that it has to offer. It is no wonder Huacachina Peru is on our list of the top Peru destinations. Want to learn more about Huacachina? Explore our Tour Huacachina Guide here!
9. Lake Titicaca
A list titled the top Peru destinations would not be complete without Lake Titicaca! Lake Titicaca is a massive, sparkling blue lake shared by Bolivia and Peru. On a Lake Titicaca cruise or tour, visit the floating islands of Uros and meet the local people. Catamaran Cruises are very popular here at Lake Titicaca, as it helps to see the vastness of the lake while on a cruising vessel. Take a catamaran cruise to Isla del Sol, the birthplace of the Inca empire. Lake Titicaca Catamaran Cruises are perfect for any traveler looking to explore the natural landscapes of Bolivia and Peru. Want to learn more about Lake Titicaca? Explore our Lake Titicaca Travel Guide here!
10. Arequipa
Arequipa Peru is a colonial city surrounded by dramatic volcanoes. On a guided Arequipa city tour, visit the city’s most historic landmarks, including the Santa Catalina Monastery, the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa, and the Plaza de Armas. After a tour of the city, indulge in Arequipa’s fine cuisine. Try Peruvian dishes with a bit of spice such as rocoto relleno (red peppers with a spicy filling), chupe de camarones (a chowder featuring prawns) and ocopa (boiled potato in a creamy, spicy sauce). There are many things to do in Arequipa, you just have to choose what is right for you!
11. Colca Canyon
Last up on our feature of top destinations in Peru is the world-famous Colca Canyon. All adventure travelers and hiking enthusiasts should head to the Colca Canyon. The Colca Canyon is an ideal trekking spot in Peru. Its famously deep canyon is the perfect trail to giant Andean condors & remote villages. Don’t hesitate to travel along the incredible trails boasting rivers, streams, and vibrant greenery. Once you get started hiking here, you will not want to stop.
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