Things to Do in Peru—Must See & Hidden Gems

Peru captivates travelers with its blend of ancient wonders and natural beauty. From the misty ruins of Machu Picchu to the lush Amazon rainforest, this South American gem offers unforgettable experiences.

Its diversity sets Peru apart. Wander Cusco’s colonial streets, where Inca foundations support Spanish architecture. Enjoy world-class cuisine in Lima and experience living traditions on Lake Titicaca’s floating islands.

Adventure awaits at every turn—trek the Sacred Valley, spot pink river dolphins in the Amazon, or marvel at the Nazca Lines. Stand in awe at Colca Canyon as Andean condors soar overhead.

Are you looking for things to do in Peru like historical insights, outdoor thrills, or cultural immersion? The country delivers unforgettable moments at every turn.

Top must-see attractions in Peru

Peru is packed with incredible landmarks that showcase its rich history and natural beauty. From ancient citadels to breathtaking natural wonders, here are the top attractions you shouldn’t miss.

Machu Picchu

Peru’s most iconic destination, Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Incan citadel perched between towering peaks. Its stunning stone terraces, temples, and panoramic views will make it a must-visit.

Tickets swell out quickly, so plan ahead. You can arrive by train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, or take on the challenge of hiking the Inca Trail.

For a quieter visit, arrive early. Be sure to explore the Sun Temple and sacred Intihuatana stone, both rich in history and significance.

Sacred Valley

The stunning Sacred Valley stretches between Cusco and Machu Picchu, offering a blend of archaeological wonders and Andean culture. Highlights include the circular terraces of Moray, the salt pans of Maras, and the fortress ruins of Ollantaytambo. 

Vibrant markets like Pisac offer colorful textiles from local artisans. With its lower elevation, the Sacred Valley is an ideal place to acclimate while experiencing authentic Peruvian rural life.

Cusco

Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco blends ancient heritage with Spanish colonial charm. It’s the first stop on our Sacred Land of the Incas tour from Lima.

Start at the Plaza de Armas, where impressive cathedrals rise atop the Inca foundation. Visit Qorikancha, once the most important Incan temple, with original stonework still visible beneath the colonial church.

The San Pedro Market offers a sensory feast with local produce, crafts, and food stalls. Just above the city, the massive stones of Sacsayhuamán fortress highlight the Incas’ incredible engineering skills. Cusco has a rich history and vibrant culture to share at every turn.

Lake Titicaca

Sitting at 12,500 feet above sea level on the Peru-Bollivia border, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. The main attraction is the floating islands of Uros, constructed entirely from totora reeds that grow in the lake.

These islands are home to communities that have maintained their traditional way of life for generations. Venture further to Taquile Island, known for its textile traditions where men are the primary knitters creating intricate pieces recognized by UNESCO.

Nazca Lines

Etched into the arid coastal plains of southern Peru, the Nazca Lines remain one of the world’s most fascinating archaeological mysteries. These enormous geoglyphs depicting animals, plants, and geometric shapes can only be fully appreciated from above.

Take a small plane tour to witness the famous hummingbird, monkey, and condor figures that have puzzled scientists for decades.

Colca Canyon

Nearly twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, Colca Canyon offers some of Peru’s most dramatic landscapes. The region is famous for Crus del Condor, a lookout point where visitors can watch majestic Andean condors soar on morning thermal currents. 

The canyon is dotted with traditional villages, pre-Inca agricultural terraces still in use today, and natural hot springs perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking. Adventure seekers can undertake multi-day treks into the canyon depths, while others might prefer exploring the colonial churches and craft markets in nearby Chivay.

Best outdoor & adventure activities in Peru

Peru is an adventure lover’s paradise, offering everything from ancient trails to coastal waves. The country’s diverse landscapes create the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are the top adventure activities you shouldn’t miss during your visit.

• Hiking the Inca trail: This 26-mile trek takes four days to complete, ending at the Sun Gate for a breathtaking sunrise view of Machu Picchu. Permits are limited, so book early. Acclimate in Cusco for a few days and pack layers for changing temperatures.

• Trekking to Rainbow Mountain: Also known as Vinicunca, the mountain stuns with vibrant mineral-rich stripes but sits over 16,000 feet high, requiring acclimatization. Most tours leave Cusco before dawn, but staying nearby lets you start early, avoid crowds, and catch the best morning light.

• Exploring the Amazon Rainforest: Peru’s Amazon offers unmatched biodiversity, with two main gateways: Puerto Maldonado and Iquitos. Puerto Maldonado leads to Tambopata National Reserve, home to macaws, monkeys, and jaguars. Iquitos provides access to Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, where river cruises reveal pink river dolphins and flooded forests. 

• Sandboarding in Huacachina: This desert oasis near Ica offers thrilling dune buggy rides and sandboarding for all skill levels. Beginners slide lying down, while experienced riders carve down golden dunes, best seen at sunset.

• Surfing in Máncora: Peru’s northern coast offers warm waters and consistent waves year-round. Beginners can take lessons, while advanced surfers tackle breaks like Panic Point. 

Hidden gems & unique experiences in Peru

Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley get more of the attention, but Peru has many incredible hidden destinations. These spots offer authentic experiences without the crowds. Discover these hidden gems to make your Peru trip truly special.

• Kuelap Fortress: Dubbed the “Machu Picchu of the North”, this ancient Chachapoyas site sits at 9,800 feet, featuring massive stone walls and over 400 circular buildings. A scenic 20-minute cable car ride from Tingo offers best access, with early mornings often revealing misty, atmospheric views.

• Gocta Waterfall: At 2,531 feet, it’s one of the world’s tallest waterfalls, only revealed to the world in 2005. The moderate hike passes lush forests, colorful birds, and occasional monkeys. Staying in Cocachimba allows for an early and quieter experience, with the final stretch rewarding hikers with a refreshing mist.

• Maras Salt Mines & Moray Ruins: Just outside Cusco, the Maras Salt Mines’ terraced pools have been harvested since pre-Inca times. Their geometric patterns create a striking visual against the valley’s greenery. 

Nearby, the circular terraces of Moray Ruins reveal the Incas’ advanced farming techniques. Visit in the late afternoon for the best colors, and don’t miss the locally harvested pink salt.

• Chachapoyas & the Cloud Forests: The remote region blends ancient ruins with lush cloud forests. Beyond Kuelap, the Karajía Sarcophagi sit on towering cliffs, their 6-foot-tall clay figures watching over the past. The forests shelter rare orchids, bromeliads, and unique wildlife. Staying in the colonial town of Chachapoyas provides a base for exploring waterfalls, caves, and untouched archaeological sites. 

Best day trips from Peru’s main cities

Peru’s cities offer fantastic bases for exploring nearby wonders. Here are the top day trips:

• From Lima: Head south to the Ballestas Islands, home to sea lions, penguins, and seabirds. The islands also feature the “Candelabra” geoglyph. While finding things to do in Lima, explore Paracas National Reserve’s red-sand beaches and cliffs, offering stunning desert-ocean contrasts.

• From Cusco: Trek to Choquequirao, a less-visited Incan site with terraces, plazas, and stone structures. For a shorter trip, some tours offer day excursions, where you’ll see the famous white stone llamas in the terraces.

• From Arequipa: For the top things to do in Arequipa, visit Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, where you can watch Andean condors soar at Crus del Condor. The journey also passes through scenic villages and natural hot springs.

• From Iquitos: Among the adventurous things to do in Iquitos, a cruise on the Amazon River tops the list. Enjoy spotting wildlife like pink dolphins and sloths. Visit indigenous communities and see the unique “meeting of the waters”, where two rivers flow side by side.

Where to eat in Peru—Top restaurants & local dishes

• Ceviche: Peru’s national dish with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, red onions, chili peppers, and cilantro. Best enjoyed at lunch for peak freshness.

• Lomo Saltado: A fusion of Chinese and Peruvian flavors, featuring stir-fried beef, onions, tomatoes, and aji amarillo peppers, served with rice and fries.

• Pisco Sour: Peru’s signature cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, egg white, simple syrup, and bitters. Best enjoyed at a specialty pisco bar.

Fine dining in Lima

• Central: Chef Virgilio Martínez’s restaurant, featuring a menu inspired by Peru’s diverse ecosystems, organized by altitude.
• Maido: A top spot for Nikkei cuisine, blending Peruvian and Japanese flavors in innovative dishes.
• Astrid y Gastón: A historic hacienda offering contemporary Peruvian flavors with a creative twist.
• Isolina: Famous for elevated home-style Peruvian comfort food.
• Rafael: A fusion of Mediterranean and Peruvian flavors in a refined setting.
• Malabar: Showcasing Amazonian ingredients in sophisticated, artfully presented dishes.

The restaurants are in high demand and fill their reservations weeks or months in advance, so be sure to book your table.

Best local markets

• • The lively San Pedro market in Cusco is filled with colors, flavors, and local specialities like chiriuchu.
  • Grab an inexpensive set lunch at food stalls in the back of the San Pedro market.

• Mercado Surquillo #1 is a local market near Miraflores, in Lima, that offers exotic fruits and fresh juices.

• Mercado 28 is a modern food market with diverse food stalls in a trendy setting.

• Street food must-trys: Sample anticuchos (beef heart skewers), papa rellena (stuffed potatoes), and picarones (sweet potato donuts).

Practical travel tips for visiting Peru

Canoe boat trip on Sandoval Lake, Tambopata National Reserve, Amazon Jungle of Peru, South America

Planning a trip to Peru requires some preparation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are essential tips to help you make the most of your Peruvian adventure.

Best time to visit Peru

• Dry season (May to September) is ideal for visiting Machu Picchu and trekking in the Andes, with clear skies and minimal rainfall.

• Wet season (November to March) brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds, but potential trail closures and muddy conditions.

• Shoulder seasons (April and October) offer a good balance of decent weather and fewer tourists.

• June 24th is the date of Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) in Cusco, the largest and most colorful celebration in Peru.

• February features vibrant Carnival celebrations throughout the country with music, dancing, and water fights.

Altitude sickness tips

• Spend 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco (11,152 ft) or Arequipa (7,661 ft) before attempting higher elevations.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before and during your visit to high-altitude areas.

• Avoid alcohol and heavy meals for the first 24 hours at altitude.

• Consider starting in the Sacred Valley (9,514 ft) instead of Cusco for a gentler altitude adjustment.

• Cocoa tea is widely available and traditionally used to combat altitude symptoms.

• Consult your doctor about altitude medication like Diamox before your trip.

Local etiquette & safety tips

• Learn basic Spanish phrases as English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas.

• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and local communities.

• Ask permission before photographing local people, especially in indigenous communities.

• Carry small denominations of Peruvian soles for markets, taxis, and small purchases.

• Keep valuables secure and be vigilant in crowded tourist areas.

• Drink bottled water and be cautious with street food to avoid stomach issues.

• Respect sacred sites by following designated paths and not removing anything.

• Carry your hotel’s business card with the address in case you need directions back.

Explore Peru with Exoticca—Your ultimate South American adventure

Peru offers unforgettable experiences, from ancient ruins to vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. Let Exoticca handle the details while you enjoy the country’s wonders.

Our expertly crafted tours blend iconic sites with hidden gems, ensuring a seamless and enriching adventure.

Explore the highlands with Sacred Valley to lake Titicaca or enjoy a Mesmerizing Peruvian Dream 360.

With comprehensive packages, expert local guides, and a perfect mix of planned activities and free time, Exoticca ensures an effortless journey. Whatever your travel preferences, we create experiences beyond the ordinary.

Start your South American adventure today—Peru is waiting!