Choose from 137 Fun Things to Do in Peru
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Plaza de Armas (Huacaypata)
From the coastal deserts of southern Peru to the frigid peaks of the Andes, every part of the vast Inca Empire traced back to Cusco. Tucked within the Andean mountains, the scenic capital city was the beating heart of one of the greatest civilizations in history. Today, you can feel this powerful history most palpably in its central square, Plaza de Armas.
The Basics
Besieged during the Spanish Conquest, many of the buildings around the plaza, named Huacaypata by the Inca, were expeditiously razed to the ground. The colonial structures erected in their place often stand on the foundations the Inca so expertly and cunningly crafted, making this historic center a totally unique place in the world. Elevated on a stepped flank, the Cusco cathedral serves as the grandiose focal point of the Plaza de Armas. At its base, vendors haggle and hawk their wares, and fountains provide a calming influence to the frenetic activity.
Travelers have many options to explore Cusco’s Plaza de Armas and its many attractions, including private or group day (or nighttime) trips or multi-day tours that may combine visits to Lake Humantay, Machu Picchu, and key attractions in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Cyclists may opt to explore Cusco city as part of a multi-day mountain bike trek.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Many attractions clustered around the plaza have small entrance fees, which are included if you’re visiting as part of a larger tour.
- Though the area is safe, it’s wise to be careful with your possessions and avoid wearing eye-catching jewelry and accessories.
- Remember sun protection.
- Because of the high altitude, be sure to stay hydrated and take it slow. Chewing on coca leaves or drinking coca tea helps alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
How to Get There
The Plaza de Armas, also known as Plaza Mayor, is located in Cusco’s historic center along Avenida del Sol and is walkable from most hotels. If you’re staying farther away, you're best off booking a tour that includes round-trip transportation, as public transit is scant.
When to Get There
The square is one of the city’s most popular attractions in the historic center. It’s a great snapshot of the buzz of the city any time of day; at night, illuminated with a golden glow, it’s even more enchanting.
Nooks and Crannies
Radiating from the Plaza de Armas is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets and hidden pedestrian alleyways. Filled with small cafes, boutiques, and local artisans, these pathways are abuzz with beauty and energy. Stroll along Loreto Alley to a wall made of enormous stones, all masterfully cut and set in place by the Inca.
Address: Plaza de Armas, Cusco, Peru
From $ 25
Plaza San Martin
Inaugurated in 1921 to celebrate a century of Peruvian independence, Plaza San Martin is named after the man who liberated Peru, Argentina and Chile from Spain, José de San Martín whose bronze likeness sits astride a bronze horse in the center of the plaza. Located within the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Lima and surrounded on three sides by neocolonial architecture, the plaza is considered one of the city’s most important public spaces.
The plaza becomes especially lively in the late afternoon and evening, when the buildings are lit up beautifully and locals gather to chit chat or, more often, argue politics beneath the trees. On the northwestern side of the plaza sits the Gran Hotel Bolivar, a perfect place to sip a pisco sour within the historic art deco building.
Practical Info
Plaza San Martin is connected with Plaza Major by a pedestrian street, making it convenient to visit both on the same day.
Address: Lima, Peru
From $ 33
Pastoruri Glacier
There was once a time when Pastoturi Glacier was a massive river of ice, but today this glacier in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca is shrinking so quickly that the glacier’s retreat has become a site in itself. Located in Huascaran National Park, Pastoturi Glacier—despite its demise—continues to offer an exceptionally scenic way to visit the Andes, and has become a spot to view the effects of climate change in action. Shining blue and white against the craggy peaks, the glacier consumes about three square miles of pristine Peruvian countryside, and is one of the world’s most accessible glaciers you can reach by just driving a car.
To get an up close view, however, you’ll need to get out and walk, which can take about 30-45 minutes along a weaving walkway. Up here in the mountains it can seem the clouds are right at the tips of your fingers, and the gaping blue sky stretches out like a canvas that rests on the snowcapped peaks. In addition to visiting the glacier itself, tours from Huaraz also stop at sights like shimmering Lake Patococha, and scenic vistas that instantly help you feel the magic of these mountains.
Insider's Tip: Chew on coca leaves or coca candy to stave off altitude sickness.
Practical Info
Pastoturi Glacier is about 16,500 feet (5,000m) above sea level, so be sure to have spent a couple of days acclimatizing before making the trek to the glacier. Since snow and ice can occur in any season, be sure to pack gear for frigid conditions, as well as boots and a rain jacket.
Address: Pastoturi Glacier, Huascaran National Park, Peru
From $ 22
Machu Picchu
The lost city of Machu Picchu is the most famous archaeological site in Peru and all of South America. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed collection of temples, terraced hills, and plazas was once the mountaintop citadel of the ancient Inca empire under Pachacutec and Tupac Yupanqui. It may now be world famous, but Machu Picchu still hasn't revealed the mysteries behind construction, function, and eventual demise. The spectacular remains are thought to date from around 1450.
The Basics
As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu sits at the top of many bucket lists. Visitors are required to enter with an official tour guide in small groups of up to 16 people. Entry is permitted in either a morning or afternoon time slot and is limited to four hours. To stay a full day, travelers must purchase two entrance tickets.
Those pressed for time often visit the ancient ruins on a day trip by train from Cusco, but the four-day trek along the legendary Inca Trail is another popular option. Some multi-day tour options also visit other regional highlights, such as Lake Titicaca and the Amazon rain forest.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This is a must-visit site for history buffs and adventure travelers.
- Entry tickets sell out early, especially in the Peruvian winter (MayâÂÂSeptember). Book well ahead of time.
- All travelers must visit with a licensed guide.
- Selfie sticks, tripods, and strollers are not allowed at Machu Picchu.
- The Incan ruins offer little shade, so remember to bring sunscreen and a hat.
- One of the most iconic views of Machu Picchu is seen from the top of Huayna Picchu.
- Expect a full day tour from Cusco to last upwards of 13 hours.
How to Get There
The quickest way to Machu Picchu is by train (PeruRail or IncaRail) from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, followed by a short bus ride or steep hike from the town of Aguas Calientes. For some, hiking the Inca Trail is as much a part of the Machu Picchu experience as the ruins themselves. This busy trail isnâÂÂt the only trekking route; others such as the Salkantay trek or Lares route provide off-the-beaten-path alternatives.
When to Get There
In high season between late May and early September, the Lost City of the Inca allows a maximum of 2,500 people to visit each day. June, July, and August are the busiest and driest months, while January is the wettest and February sees the closure of the Inca Trail. Spring and fall strike a nice balance between pleasant weather and manageable crowds.
Tips for the Inca Trail Hike
If your dream Machu Picchu experience includes hiking the Inca Trail through the Sacred Valley, book well ahead of time, as the number of hikers is limited to 500 per day (including guides and porters). This difficult trail requires a fair amount of physical fitness, particularly given the high altitude in the Andes mountains. Give yourself at least two days in Cusco to acclimatize, and buy some coca leaves to help with any altitude sickness. Pick up a pair of walking sticksâÂÂyouâÂÂll be glad you did.
Address: Peru
Hours: Varies
Admission: Varies
From $ 25
Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
Peru’s largest and most important protected area is the massive Reserva Nacional Pacaya Samiria, a vast 2.08 million hectare (8,030 square miles; roughly the size of New Jersey or El Salvador) swath of pristine rainforest threaded with endless waterways. The two most important, forming the borders of the roughly triangular reserve, are Maranon and Ucayali Rivers.
Where Pacaya Samiria narrows to a point, at their celebrated confluence, the official birthplace of the mighty Amazon. Climb the viewing tower for the iconic photo. Visitors to the reserve must come with a guided tour.
The Pacaya Samiria begins about 183km (114mi) south of Iquitos, a trip that can be done entirely on the water, or more quickly (if less scenically) by driving along the 90km (56mi) Iquitos–Nauta Highway, to the Port of Nauta. Scores of different tours are on offer, following the Maranon, Ucayali, and other assorted waterways through the thick vegetation and canyons, such as the smaller Yanayacu River, recently opened to tourism.
The sweeping majesty of this oft-flooded rainforest is home pink and gray river dolphins, 13 primates, sloths, manatees, black caimans, tapirs, and more than 500 colorful bird species that have been officially recorded, including macaws, jacanas, parakeets, hawks, and several different kingfishers (themselves taking advantage of almost 300 species of fish).
There are also dozens of indigenous communities located in and around the reserve; most tours stop in at least one, allowing you to meet and greet the locals, and perhaps indulge yourself with some seed jewelry to take home. While many travelers make this a day trip, there are encampments and lodges where you can arrange to spend the night.
Address: Iquitos, Peru
Admission: $20 USD for unlimited stay
From $ 289
Pisac Indian Market
The Pisac Indian Market is one of the most popular and picturesque of the indigenous markets in the Cusco region. Travelers from all over the world make the pilgrimage to this mountain town to purchase all manner of textiles, ceramics, jewelry, ponchos, rugs, hats, gloves, Andean instruments, ceramics, alpaca and llama woven clothing, and a host of lovely souvenirs.
The Basics
This atmospheric village, snug inside the Sacred Valley of the Incas, was once a lofty citadel protecting the Inca Empire from invaders. These days, the only invaders are friendly ones—shoppers looking for beautiful handicrafts and housewares from talented local artisans.
Travelers have many options: you can explore the Pisac Indian Market as part of private or group half-day, full-day or multi-day tours that incorporate other attractions inside the Sacred Valley of the Incas, including the archeological sites on the way to Machu Picchu.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bargaining for prices is expected; feel free to offer what you feel is a fair price, while considering the skill and time that goes into making the wares.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking on uneven stone pathways.
- Because of the high altitude, be sure to stay hydrated and take it slow. Chewing on coca leaves or drinking coca tea helps alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Many tours include ground transportation, transfers, entrance fees, camping and hotel accommodations, and guides. Check individual tours for precise arrangements.
- Tours operate in all weather conditions, so remember to dress appropriately. Bring sweaters for colder months and a rain poncho for rainy season, generally January through April.
How to Get There
The Pisac Indian Market is in the mountain town of Pisac, which is about 20 miles (32 kilometers) northeast of Cusco in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Minibuses run from Cusco and take about an hour; hire a cab or join a market tour. Tours include round-trip transport from your hotel.
When to Get There
The Pisac Indian Market is open Tuesdays and Thursdays, but nothing compares to Sundays when the market expands exponentially. Arrive in the morning so you can catch a mass (conducted in both Quechua and Spanish) attended by artisans in vibrant garb; Sunday hours are 9 am to 5pm.
Visit the Pisac Ruins
Combine a market visit with a tour of the nearby Ollantaytambo ruins, the Inca Temple of the Sun, and a fortress made of gigantic 12-foot (3.5-meter) stones, mysteriously placed to perfection. Hike about an hour from Pisac to the ruins, which are perched dramatically on a magnificent mountain top.
Address: Pisac, Peru
From $ 32
Planetarium Cusco
The Planetarium Cusco is one of the most unique planetariums in the world. Housed in a humble Andean adobe home, the family-run planetarium sits on a Cusco hillside amid the archeological site Saqsayhuaman and the Llaullipata ecological reserve. From this wonderful locale, you can explore the mysteries of the universe as told through the eyes of the Inca.
The Basics
In a domed projection room, passionate local astronomers offer deep knowledge and fascinating stories as they guide visitors through the cosmos, explaining how the Inca saw and interpreted the stars. Using the rotating sky to guide their everyday life, the Inca were advanced and creative astronomers, finding Southern Hemisphere constellations like the Southern Cross and Orion's Belt as well as their own personalized groupings such as a baby llama, a puma, a toad, and a condor. After the educational presentation and tour—and depending on the weather conditions—you can peek through powerful telescopes to glimpse stars, planets, nebulae, and constellations.
Travelers have the choice to visit this singular planetarium alone, or as part of an evening tour of Cusco that also includes the San Pedro market, the illuminated historic center, and a restaurant for a traditional Peruvian dinner.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The planetarium is suitable for all travelers, including families with young kids.
- Tours may include round-trip hotel transport, entrance fees, a local guide, and, depending on the tour, dinner and a Pisco sour. Gratuities and other extras aren’t include, and some tours require a minimum of two people.
- Independent travelers will need to self-book in advance so that planetarium staff is prepared.
How to Get There
The Planetarium Cusco is located up a hill, about a 15-minute drive from the historic center. It’s easily accessible by taxi—just ask your hotel. Tours include round-trip transfer from your hotel.
When to Get There
Open year-round, the planetarium welcomes visitors Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4pm.
Expert Inca Stargazers
The science of astronomy was deeply important to the Inca, who worshipped the sun and the moon as gods and connected it to agricultural planning and sacred ceremonies. Their stargazers identified constellations, sorting them in two groups: shapes linked in the classic connect-the-dots way to form “inanimate” animals, Gods, and mythological figures; and those formed by the dark spots of the Milky Way, the so-called “animate” animals.
Address: Av. Pardo 800, Cusco, Peru
From $ 23
Parque de la Reserva
With 8 hectares of neo-classical gardens and pagodas, dotted with ornamental sculptures, Parque de la Reserva is a welcome pocket of greenery, located on the cusp of downtown Lima. Although the park was laid out in 1929 to commemorate the civilian armies of the War of the Pacific, it wasn’t until 2007 that it became a feature on tourist itineraries, opening its hugely popular Magic Water Circuit (Circuito Mágico del Agua).
The dazzling new installation features thirteen individual fountains, each with cybernetic or interactive qualities that perform an impressive light and water show, using state-of-the-art lighting effects, lasers and choreography to music. Currently holding the record for the world’s largest fountain complex in a public park, the Magic Water Circuit is a ticketed, self-guided attraction that has quickly garnered acclaim as one of the country’s most unique spectacles. Notable highlights include the Magic Fountain, the largest, reaching heights of over 80 meters; the Tunnel Fountain of Surprises, a 35-meter long walk-though tunnel of water; and the Fantasia Fountain, which forms the centerpiece of a mind-blowing music and picture show.
Address: Santa Beatriz, Lima 15046, Peru
From $ 30
Nazca Lines
The enigmatic Nazca Lines (or Nasca Lines) are second only to Machu Picchu as the most famous archaeological site in Peru. The mysterious geoglyphs at the UNESCO World Heritage Site range from geometric shapes and swirls to a hummingbird and monkey. Theories on their purpose include astronomical markers, irrigation canals, and alien messages—an enigma that has spurred intrigue since their 1927 discovery. The spectacular etchings likely date from 500 BC and 500 AD.
The Basics
There are two ways to see the Nazca Lines: from an airplane tour and from an observation tower. The tower is accessible from the Pan-American Highways and allows for views of two mysterious shapes from above: hands and a tree. Bus tours often stop here for a look at the lines, but those with more time and a bigger budget may want to book a flight. Air tours typically last 30 minutes and fly over 15 shapes, including the famous geoglyphs of a dog and an astronaut. It’s best to book in advance, as flights to this top attraction fill up quickly. Guided day trips around Nazca can include stops at local attractions including Huacachina Oasis.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Request a morning flight (before 10:30am) for best visibility.
- Book travel to Nazca Lines early, as it’s one of the top attractions in South America.
- If visiting on a cruise, look for Nazca Line shore excursion tours.
- Those flying to the site from another country may want to bring a passport and cash for the airport tax (sometimes included in tours).
- Nazca Lines flights operate from Nazca, Ica, Lima, Paracas, and Pisco, with flights from further destinations offering faster and more convenient transportation at higher prices.
How to Get There
While it’s possible to take a public bus from Lima to the high desert of southern Peru, it’s faster to get to the Nazca Lines via a 7-hour tourist shuttle. Look for tours that include round-trip transportation from Lima for convenience. If coming from Cusco, it’s best to fly to Pisco or Lima and take a shuttle from there; those coming from Arequipa can take a long bus ride to Nazca or fly to Pisco or Lima first. The Maria Reiche Neuman Airport is only used for viewing the Nazca Lines.
When to Get There
Tours of the Nazca Lines run year-round. You may get better views during the dry months, from June through August, but crowds will be smallest in early spring and fall.
The Pampa Lines
Though less famous, the Pampa de Jumana Lines are almost 1,000 years older and depict equally astonishing subjects, including people and a complex calendar created by the Parapas people. Some tours offer hour-long flights over both sites.
Address: Nazca, Peru
From $ 155
Pachacamac Itshma Temple
The closest archaeological site to Lima is Pachacamac, a pre-Inca collection of sand-blasted pyramid temples and palaces spanning 1,500 years. Over the centuries the now-ruined city developed into one of the Inca’s most important religious and administrative centers.
Though all that remains is largely the rubble of walls and stepped foundations rising from the surrounding dusty desert, there are excavations and reconstructions to see, including a rebuilt Inca complex called House of the Chosen Women.
The site was inhabited by the Huari people prior to 800 AD, and later by the Inca, who built their Temple to the sun on the main square. Itshma was the name given to the state surrounding Pachacamac and the religious ceremonial temples built to honor the coastal deity, Pacha Camac.
The site was inhabited until 1533, when it was destroyed by Spanish conquistador Pizarro.
The on-site museum helps explain the significance of Pachacamac’s ceremonial temples, and displays artifacts unearthed at the site.
Though all that remains is largely the rubble of walls and stepped foundations rising from the surrounding dusty desert, there are excavations and reconstructions to see, including a rebuilt Inca complex called House of the Chosen Women.
The site was inhabited by the Huari people prior to 800 AD, and later by the Inca, who built their Temple to the sun on the main square. Itshma was the name given to the state surrounding Pachacamac and the religious ceremonial temples built to honor the coastal deity, Pacha Camac.
The site was inhabited until 1533, when it was destroyed by Spanish conquistador Pizarro.
The on-site museum helps explain the significance of Pachacamac’s ceremonial temples, and displays artifacts unearthed at the site.
Practical Info
Pachacamac is a 45-minute trip by bus from Lima, 40km (25 miles) away to the north.
Address: Pachacamac, Peru
Hours: Tue - Sun 9am - 4:30pm
Admission: Adults: 12 Nuevos Soles
From $ 36
Miraflores
The swanky beachfront suburb of Miraflores is one of Lima’s most sought-after zip codes. Here you’ll find the city’s best restaurants, shops, and hotels, plus waterfront mansions and high-rise towers. Lovely parks and beaches decorate the area, as well as the ancient ruins of Huaca Pucllana—a pre-Inca temple.
The Basics
Miraflores contains some of Lima’s best hotels and restaurants, so most city travelers choose to base themselves in this leafy suburb. Nature lovers can soak up sun in a variety of green spaces and beaches, while history buffs can visit Museo Amano (a Pre-Columbian textile museum) and Iglesia Virgen Milagrosa, the area’s largest Catholic church. Even adrenaline-junkies can find an outlet in Miraflores; paragliders flock to nearby Parque del Amor to leap off rocky cliffs and soar over the sea.
Soak in the coastal atmosphere on an evening walking tour of Miraflores and learn about the district’s history and culture from an expert guide. For an overview of city highlights, visit Miraflores on a bike or coach tour of Lima to see attractions such as the UNESCO-listed San Francisco Convent, the Larco Museum, and Plaza de Armas. Or, delve into the district’s bustling nightlife on a private night tour of Lima.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Miraflores is a must-visit destination for foodies and first-time visitors to Lima.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; there’s a lot of ground to cover in Miraflores.
- While Lima is a modern city, visitors should still opt for bottled water over tap water, as the county’s public drinking water may not be purified to contemporary standards.
How to Get There
Miraflores is a beachfront suburb of Lima, roughly three miles (five kilometers) south of the historic city center. Buses run from central Lima to Miraflores along Avenue Arequipa to Avenue Jose Larco, the district’s main street.
When to Get There
Day or night, there’s almost always something to do in Miraflores. By day, the neighborhood attracts visitors with boutiques, galleries, and outdoor leisure at the seaside Parque del Amor. Come evening, restaurants, bars, and dance clubs combine to form one of Lima’s top nightlife hotspots. Summer (December through April) is Lima’s busiest season, while winter (May through November) brings overcast skies and lower prices.
The Cats of Kennedy Park (Parque Kennedy)
Kennedy Park, the unofficial central square of Miraflores, was named in honor of America’s 35th president. No one quite knows why, but the park has become a haven for a mysteriously large cat population, so if you’re missing your furry friends back home, swing by to spend some time with the kitties.
Address: Lima, Peru
From $ 16
Raqch'i
This vast Inca archaeological site is one the Cusco Region’s top attractions, drawing travelers from across the globe that come in search of ancient ruins. Most of the highlights of this historical destination are located inside an old defense wall. Visitors will find a courtyard, lodging house, and several other structures that are worth exploring on a tour of Raqch’i.
Some 220 small storehouses known as qullqas, which surround the area, are another unique feature of this ancient Inca locale. But perhaps the most impressive landmark is the Temple of Wiracoch — a massive two-story building that showcases the incredible craftsmanship of early Inca stonework. Travelers will find old living quarters attached to the temple that are also the perfect place to explore Incan history, culture and traditions.
Practical Info
Raqch’I is located in the Cusco Region of the Canchis Province in Peru’s San Pedro District. It is accessible via a four-hour bus ride from the city of Cusco.
Address: Cusco, Peru
From $ 75
Pisaq Potato Park
Located in the Sacred Valley of Peru, Pisaq Potato Park encompasses nearly 30,000 acres (12,000 hectares) of high-altitude Andean land where local residents manage and conserve one of their most important agricultural resources: potatoes. Some 700 varieties of potatoes grow within the park, many of them endemic to the region. Six Quechua communities joined forces on the conservation project with the aims of eradicating hunger, promoting gender equality and ensuring environmental sustainability.
Visitors to the Pisaq Potato Park can choose between three- or five-day guided treks through the park, or a single-day visit which includes a hands-on tour of a potato farm, a meal made from a variety of local Peruvian potatoes and visits to some of the communities involved in the project. The park also offers a cooking class using local potato varieties.
Practical Info
Pisaq Potato Park is significantly higher in altitude than Pisaq — something to keep in mind when deciding between a multi-day trek or day tour.
Address: Pisaq, Peru
Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30am-8:30pm
From $ 180
Mercado Central de San Pedro
There is a certain irony that one of the best sites in Cusco really isn’t a site at all. Rather, the Mercado Central de San Pedro (San Pedro Market) is simply the place in the center of Cusco where most of the locals go for their groceries.
The difference, however, is that grocery shopping in Cusco is a little bit different than shopping at the local market back back home. At the Mercado Central de San Pedro, all of the items are on vibrant display and are fascinatingly set right out in the open. You can wander the stalls past towers of fruit and be greeted by a pig’s head on the very next corner. You can shop for a dozen varieties of potatoes and then watch someone purchase a bag of fried guinea pigs. It’s an authentic look at everyday culture which lies outside the circuit of regular sights.
There is also a food court that serves local dishes at a fraction of the cost of most local restaurants. While some of the food might be safer than others (the quinoa and vegetables being a safer bet than meat that is served with visible hair), dining at the market is a unique experience where you can share in the flavors of Cusco with the locals.
In addition to shopping for produce and meat, there are also sections devoted to selling crafts such as textiles and Andean art. Haggling over prices is readily expected, although be sure to keep an eye on your wallet and valuables since pickpockets have been known to troll through the aisles.
All in all, however, the Mercado Central de San Pedro is one of the best stops in Cusco for experiencing everyday Andean life.
Address: Plaza de San Francisco, Cusco, Peru
Hours: Daily until 5pm
From $ 36
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
One would think that a rainbow-colored mountain would be fairly easy to spot, but in the case of Vinicunca, set high in the Peruvian Andes, getting a view of the multihued wonder means waking up early to trek through mountains that burst with natural colors, but are thin on air considering they rise over 17,000 feet (5181m). Despite the physical challenges, however, seeing Vinicunca in person is a once-in-a-lifetime visual treat where you’ll likely find yourself gawking in silence and wondering, “how is this real?” With impressively straight and colorful lines, “Rainbow Mountain,” as it’s come to be known, explodes with hues of lavender and red that are caused by minerals in the soil, and looks like something from a coloring book as opposed to an actual Andean peak that few are lucky to see.
Insider's Tip: Be sure to pack clothes for all types of weather, as snow, ice, hail, rain, and searing sun are all possible in the span of a few hours. Also be sure to wear hiking boots, since steep sections of trail can become very slippery if there’s been any rain or snow.
Practical Info
The best season for trekking near Cuzco is from April through October when it’s a bit colder, but the weather is much drier. To see Rainbow Mountain, you can either choose from a 6-day trek on the remote Ausangate Trail, or do an abbreviated, 1-day trek that departs from Cuzco around 3am and offers a view of Vinicunca on a challenging, but attainable trail. Because of the very high altitude, however, hikers should be in relatively good health and already acclimatized to the altitude.
Address: Cuzco, Peru
From $ 100
Jiron de la Union
Downtown Lima’s most lively and colorful street is pedestrianized Jiron de la Union.
Lined with boutiques and stores for window-shopping, restaurants and cafes for bar-hoppers, and thronged with locals for people-watching, taking a stroll along this atmospheric thoroughfare is the best way to experience Lima in a nutshell.
Taking up five blocks of prime city-center real estate, Lima’s most important boulevard was planned by Pizarro back in 1535, when the city was founded.
A walk along this thoroughly commercialized car-free route takes you past City Hall, monuments, squares and the La Merced Cathedral, with its pretty square in front.
Lined with boutiques and stores for window-shopping, restaurants and cafes for bar-hoppers, and thronged with locals for people-watching, taking a stroll along this atmospheric thoroughfare is the best way to experience Lima in a nutshell.
Taking up five blocks of prime city-center real estate, Lima’s most important boulevard was planned by Pizarro back in 1535, when the city was founded.
A walk along this thoroughly commercialized car-free route takes you past City Hall, monuments, squares and the La Merced Cathedral, with its pretty square in front.
Practical Info
Jiron de la Union is in the historic city center. The pedestrianized street runs southwest from Plaza de Armas to Plaza San Martin, linking the city’s two main squares.
Address: Jiron de la Union, Lima, Peru
From $ 26
Piquillacta
At 3,250 meters above sea level, and just 30 km (18 miles) from the highland Peruvian city of Cuzco, best known for being the jumping-off point for visiting Machu Picchu, Piquillacta makes a great day trip. It is a mainly adobe pre-Incan ruin that was in use by the Wari people as an administrative center from 550 to 1100 AD. The site is extensive, spread out over 13 square miles, and is part of an archaeological park that also includes the Rumicolca Ruins. The center of the area is the remains of a lake, the Laguna de Huacarpay, where birdwatching is popular, though everyone, birdwatcher and non- will enjoy the expansive views over the valley below.
The ruins are interesting in that they are multi-storied, and in many areas there are remains of the plaster used to cover the walls. There are many areas where human remains were found, possibly as offerings, though many items have been removed from the area. The civilization surrounding Piquillacta was agrarian in nature, and there are remains of maize and beans, and it is believed that the Wari ate llama and cuy (guinea pig) as part of their diet. The remains of aqueducts and irrigation ditches can also be seen.
Practical Info
An hour or two guided tour is probably enough time for the average visitor, and travelers can easily combine this tour with one that visits the areas of Tipon, Pisac and Andahuaylillas for a full-day excursion.
Address: Piquillacta, Peru
From $ 31
Kuelap
This impressive and historic fortress is located a three-hours walk from the hotel district of Santa Maria and attracts travelers from across the globe thanks to its imposing stone walls and the four hundred individual buildings that make up the complex.
Travelers can climb to the top of the fortress and look out over the lush vegetation of the Utcubamba Valley on a trip to this remote destination. Locals agree that the pre-Incan structure is far less visited than the famed Inca Trail, but travelers say its impeccable views, ancient history and steep hiking paths make it the perfect stop for anyone looking to learn more about the culture and history of Peru. Be advised that high elevation means weather can change in an instant, so warm and dry clothes are essential. Though Kuelap is well off the beaten path, visitors say the journey to get there is almost as scenic as the destination itself.
Practical Info
The fortress is located near Chachapoyas City in Amazonas. It’s possible to travel via taxi or kombi from Chachapoyas’s main square. Guides are required to tour the fortress and can be secured before entering the main wall.
Address: Amazon, Peru
From $ 77
Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca, glistening atop the Andes Mountains, is a tourist attraction, spiritual oasis, and cultural hub all in one. It is also South America’s highest (at 12,507 feet/3,812 meters) and largest (at an astounding 3,230 square miles/8,366 square kilometers) lake, as well as the highest navigable lake in the world.
The Basics
The best way to explore Lake Titicaca is on its famed waters. Ride a boat out to the Uros Floating Islands to learn how the Uro people have lived on Lake Titicaca for generations; Taquile and Amantani Islands are particularly well known for their well-preserved cultural traditions and handicrafts, and they offer lodging and homestays. Active travelers can explore the lake on a kayak or paddleboard for a more adventurous outing. Most Lake Titicaca tours cover the basic attractions, while a private tour gives you more opportunity to customize your itinerary. Trips to Titicaca National Preserve, a protected section of the lake, offer opportunities to see 60 species of bird, such as the endemic Titicaca grebe, as well as fish and amphibians, including frogs weighing up to seven pounds (three kilograms). If you have more time in the region, multi-day tours often include visits to Machu Picchu, Lima, and Cusco.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lake Titicaca is a must for nature enthusiasts and those wanting to learn more about native cultures.
- The lake is split between Peru and Bolivia, and is accessible from both sides.
- Be prepared for altitude sickness if you are not acclimated before arrival.
- Dress in layers with sun protection for fierce sun, chilly afternoons, and cold nights.
How to Get There
The lake is divided between Peru and Bolivia, which bookend its beauty with the small cities of Puno and Copacabana, respectively. Both are fine bases to explore the lake’s amazing islands, replete with hotels and restaurant. Most travelers reach these cities by bus, though flights are available to the Inca Manco Cápac Airport in Juliaca, roughly an hour from Puno, and a train runs between Puno and Cusco. A few of the islands also offer lodging, though some are available only to travelers on tours.
When to Get There
For the most warmth and sunshine, visit Lake Titicaca from May through September, though temperatures are still chilly at night. Expect rain almost daily from October through March.
Sacred Waters
Lake Titicaca is thought to be the birthplace of the Andean peoples, where the Creator God Viracocha summoned the sun, moon, and first human beings from what is now called Isla del Sol. The Incas, Aymaras, Uros, and countless other indigenous nations thus hold this lake sacred.
Address: Puno, Peru
From $ 26
Kennedy Park (Parque Kennedy)
Kennedy Park in Miraflores is literally the cat’s meow. Aside from being a well-kept park in Lima’s most popular district, the park is known for the dozens of cats that live in the cushy grass. If you’re a visitor who’s missing your pet back at home—or just want a cuddly experience—sit in the grass and wait for a cat to jump up and sit in your lap. Aside from the friendly Peruvian felines, Kennedy Park is also known for its collection of musicians and artisans—many of whom will gather on weekends to display and sell their work. Impromptu, upbeat music performances will occasionally enliven the park, and it’s a gathering spot where expats and locals mingle in Miraflores. Surrounding the park are the teeming amenities of Peru’s modern capital, including shopping, restaurants, numerous cafés, banks, and city bus lines. To escape the hectic Miraflores buzz, visit the Church of Virgen Milagrosa inside of Kennedy Park. The church was built in 1939, and when you’re done admiring the Catholic architecture, pick up a tasty, donut-like picarón from a vendor inside the park.
Practical Info
Known in Spanish as Parque Kennedy, locals will generally refer to the park as Parque Miraflores. Morning rush hour and early evenings are the busiest times on weekdays, and the park is always a flurry of activity at any time on the weekends. Kennedy Park is about 11 miles from the international airport and 7 from the colonial square, and despite the crowds is often considered as one of the safest areas of Lima.
Address: Miraflores, Lima, Peru
From $ 16