Top Attractions in Peru

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Written By Joshua Scott Jenkins

Peru, a country of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is one of South America’s most sought-after travel destinations. From the ancient ruins of the Inca Empire to its spectacular mountains, lush Amazon rainforests, and vibrant cities, Peru offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you're an adventurer, history enthusiast, foodie, or nature lover, Peru has something incredible to offer. Here are some of the top attractions in Peru that you won’t want to miss.

1. Machu Picchu – The Lost City of the Incas

No trip to Peru is complete without a visit to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This ancient Inca city, perched high in the Andes Mountains, is one of the most iconic archaeological sites on Earth. Surrounded by mist-shrouded peaks and lush greenery, Machu Picchu offers an awe-inspiring view of the past.

The Inca Trail: One of the most famous treks in the world, the Inca Trail takes you on a multi-day journey through stunning mountain landscapes, lush forests, and ancient ruins, culminating in a sunrise arrival at Machu Picchu.
Sun Gate (Inti Punku): The Sun Gate is the first place where trekkers on the Inca Trail glimpse Machu Picchu. The panoramic view of the ancient city against the backdrop of the mountains is a breathtaking sight.
Explore the Ruins: Once at Machu Picchu, explore its perfectly constructed terraces, temples, and plazas. Key sites include the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone (a sacred astronomical tool), and the Room of the Three Windows.

2. Cusco – The Historic Capital of the Inca Empire

Cusco is often referred to as the "Gateway to Machu Picchu," but this city in its own right is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning architecture. It was once the capital of the mighty Inca Empire, and today, it blends Inca and colonial influences, making it one of the most charming cities in South America.

Plaza de Armas: The central square in Cusco, Plaza de Armas, is surrounded by colonial-era buildings and cathedrals, and it’s a great place to start your exploration of the city.
Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun): This ancient Inca temple was dedicated to the Sun God, Inti. The temple’s walls and floors were once covered in sheets of gold, though much of it was taken by the Spanish conquistadors.
Sacsayhuamán: Located on a hilltop overlooking Cusco, the Sacsayhuamán ruins are a marvel of Inca engineering. The massive stone walls are so precisely constructed that not even a blade of grass can fit between the stones.

3. Sacred Valley – The Heart of the Inca Empire

The Sacred Valley is a beautiful region located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, terraced agricultural fields, and ancient ruins. This valley was once a key area for the Incas and continues to be a place of cultural and spiritual significance.

Ollantaytambo: This ancient town and archaeological site are one of the most well-preserved examples of Inca urban planning. The Ollantaytambo Fortress sits atop a hill and offers fantastic views of the valley below.
Pisac: Pisac is famous for its impressive ruins, which are located on a mountain overlooking the town. The Pisac market is also a great place to buy handmade crafts, textiles, and fresh produce.
Moray: Known for its unusual circular terraces, Moray was an Inca agricultural research center where different altitudes were used to study the effects of various growing conditions on crops.

4. Lake Titicaca – The Highest Navigable Lake in the World

Situated on the border between Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world, sitting at an elevation of 3,812 meters (12,507 feet) above sea level. This serene, crystal-clear lake is surrounded by mountains and home to numerous islands, each with its own distinct culture and traditions.

Uros Floating Islands: The Uros people live on floating islands made from reeds, which are a fascinating sight. Visitors can take a boat ride to these islands and learn about the unique way of life of the Uros.
Taquile Island: Known for its traditional textiles, Taquile Island is a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy stunning views, walk through quaint villages, and witness local customs.
Amantani Island: Amantani is another beautiful island in Lake Titicaca, where you can hike to the top of the island for panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

5. Nazca Lines – Mysterious Geoglyphs in the Desert

The Nazca Lines are a series of massive, ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor in southern Peru. These lines, some over 200 meters long, form shapes of animals, plants, and geometric patterns that can only be fully appreciated from the air.

Aerial Tour: To see the lines in their entirety, it’s best to take an aerial tour. The most famous figures include the hummingbird, the spider, and the monkey.
Nazca Culture: The lines were created by the ancient Nazca people around 500 BC to 500 AD. Their purpose remains a mystery, but they are believed to have had religious or astronomical significance.

6. Colca Canyon – One of the Deepest Canyons in the World

Colca Canyon, located in southern Peru, is one of the deepest canyons in the world, nearly twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. This spectacular canyon offers dramatic landscapes, lush valleys, and picturesque villages that preserve ancient traditions.

Cruz del Condor: This viewpoint in Colca Canyon offers breathtaking views of the canyon and the chance to see the majestic Andean condor, one of the largest flying birds in the world, soaring above.
Hiking and Hot Springs: The canyon offers a range of hiking options, including multi-day treks to the bottom, where you can relax in natural hot springs after a long day of hiking.

7. Amazon Rainforest – Peru’s Biodiversity Hub

Peru is home to a large portion of the Amazon rainforest, one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. A visit to the Amazon offers an incredible opportunity to experience lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and remote indigenous communities.

Puerto Maldonado: The gateway to the southern Peruvian Amazon, Puerto Maldonado is a popular base for exploring the rainforest. From here, you can take boat tours down the Madre de Dios River and stay in eco-lodges deep within the forest.
Manú National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Manú National Park is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. The park is home to jaguars, monkeys, thousands of bird species, and indigenous tribes.

8. Arequipa – The White City

Arequipa, known as the "White City" due to its colonial buildings made of white volcanic stone, is a beautiful city surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes. Arequipa’s vibrant culture, architecture, and proximity to some of Peru’s most incredible natural sites make it a must-visit destination.

Santa Catalina Monastery: This expansive convent, which looks like a small city, is a peaceful place with colorful buildings, courtyards, and chapels.
Misti Volcano: The Misti Volcano looms over Arequipa and offers a challenging hike to the summit for adventurous travelers, with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Colca Canyon: As mentioned earlier, Arequipa is also the gateway to Colca Canyon, where you can explore stunning landscapes and catch a glimpse of the Andean condor.

9. Paracas National Reserve and Ballestas Islands

Located on the southern coast of Peru, the Paracas National Reserve is a stunning coastal desert reserve that offers dramatic landscapes and rich wildlife. It is also home to the Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the "Galapagos of Peru."

Ballestas Islands: Take a boat trip from Paracas to the Ballestas Islands, where you can see an abundance of wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and a variety of seabirds. The islands are a haven for nature lovers and photographers.
Candelabra Geoglyph: A mysterious geoglyph resembling a giant candleholder, the Candelabra is carved into a hillside overlooking the ocean. Its origins and purpose are still unclear, but it’s a fascinating sight.

10. Huaraz – The Andes and Adventure Capital

For outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Huaraz is the perfect destination. Situated in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, Huaraz is a hub for trekking, mountaineering, and exploring some of the country’s most spectacular natural landscapes.

Huascarán National Park: This park, home to Peru’s highest peak, Huascarán, offers incredible trekking opportunities, including the famous Santa Cruz Trek, one of the best treks in South America.
Llanganuco Lakes: The **L