Machu Picchu
Region: Cusco Region
Mixed heritage
Inca citadel in the sky at 2,430m altitude. World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders.
Tourism in Peru
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Historic Center of Cusco
Region: Cusco Region
Cultural heritage
Former capital where Inca and colonial cultures merge. Stone masonry streets are highlights.
Nazca Lines
Region: Ica Region
Cultural heritage
Giant geoglyphs drawn in the desert. Overflight tours are popular.
Colca Canyon
Region: Arequipa Region
Natural
Famous for its world-class depth and Andean condor flights.
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
Region: Cusco Region
Natural
Spectacular mountain at 5,000m altitude colored in seven hues by diverse minerals.
Lake Titicaca & Uros Islands
Region: Puno Region
Natural/Cultural
Experience traditional life of the Uros people living on floating reed islands.
Chan Chan
Region: La Libertad Region
Cultural heritage
Capital of the Chimú Kingdom. World's largest adobe city.
Huascarán National Park
Region: Ancash Region
Natural heritage
Core of the Cordillera Blanca (White Range) with 6,000m peaks.
Historic Center of Arequipa
Region: Arequipa Region
Cultural heritage
"White City" built from white volcanic rock "sillar".
Paracas National Reserve & Ballestas Islands
Region: Ica Region
Natural
Paradise for sea lions and seabirds. Marine tours are popular.
Kuelap Fortress
Region: Amazonas Region
Cultural heritage candidate
Megalithic city emerging from cloud forest, called "the Machu Picchu of the North".
Huacachina Oasis
Region: Ica Region
Natural
Lake village floating in sand dunes. Buggy rides and sandboarding are popular.
Gocta Falls
Region: Amazonas Region
Natural
Two-tiered waterfall with 771m drop, one of the world's highest.
Historic Center of Lima
Region: Lima Metropolitan Area
Cultural heritage
Center of the "City of Kings" with baroque cathedral and viceregal palace.
Suggested itineraries
Andean Golden Route
Duration (days): 8
Highlights: Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain
Classic tour of Inca ruins and highland scenery with consideration for altitude changes.
Southern Coast & Desert Adventure
Duration (days): 5
Highlights: Paracas, Nazca, Huacachina, Ica Vineyards
Experience overflight, buggy rides, and wine in desert and ocean settings.
Amazon Nature Experience
Duration (days): 6
Highlights: Puerto Maldonado, Tambopata Reserve, Canopy Walk
Stay at rainforest lodge with expert guides and encounter diverse wildlife and plants.
Travel tips
- Keep activities light on arrival day in Cusco for altitude sickness prevention.
- Dry season (May-September) has high sunshine rates, ideal for trekking.
- Rainy season Andes may experience road closures due to landslides.
- Choose reputable street food vendors and use bottled water.
- Official taxis display company name and registration number on vehicle.
- Public restrooms often lack paper, so carry your own.
- US dollars widely circulated; small amounts are convenient in Soles cash.
- Some ruins and museums require separate photography fees.
- Avoid walking alone in old towns at night; use trusted ride-hailing apps for safety.
- Domestic flights often delayed by weather; allow buffer time for connections.
- Pisco Sour has high alcohol content, so drink with caution.
- If service charge not included in pricing, leave approximately 10% tip.