15 Things To Do In Peru Along With Exploring Machu Picchu

By Dhruvalakshmi Paithankar on Jun 20, 2019

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If you are wondering whether it is safe to travel to Peru, then know that it is one of the countries that has not been hit by the Coronavirus epidemic. No cases of COVID-19 are detected in Peru till this date. The authorities in Peru are taking all the steps to not let COVID-19 spread in the country and it is recommended to take precautionary measures while visiting Peru. Also, we suggest that you check flight operations to and from Peru as they might be affected amidst the virus outbreak.

Note: The Coronavirus statistics mentioned in this article are based on the updated reports available on March 3, 2020. These figures will be updated depending on how the outbreak unfolds.

Peru is a country of extremes - it has ancient ruins hidden stone’s throw away from modern cities and alluring Amazon rainforest standing shoulder to shoulder with the sprawling desert. From Incan Machu Picchu to bustling Lima and from beautiful Lake Titicaca to captivating Rainbow Mountain, there are numerous things to do in Peru for you. That is why you need this detailed Peru travel guide to introduce you to the best in this country. Read on and get ready to discover the wonders of Peru, South America. You will love every corner of this fascinating country!

1. Discover the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu

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Dramatic, mysterious, and awe-inspiring - the ancient Incan ruins of Machu Picchu rightfully sit on top of every traveler’s list of things to do in Peru. The sprawling mountain land dotted with temples, royal, and residential structures with winding stone stairways has become one of the best Peru attractions over the last few decades. It is strongly recommended to opt for Cusco tours to explore the spectacle of Machu Picchu to the fullest.

2. Learn local history at Cusco

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Cusco, the former capital of the Inca empire, is today a modern city known for ancient ruins and historic Spanish architecture. Be it the peaceful Cusco Cathedral or bustling San Pedro Market, be it the huge Museo de Arte Precolombino or lively Plaza De Armas, there are so many things to do in Cusco to keep you engaged. Stay here for at least a couple of days during your Peru vacation and see what it has to offer.

3. Visit different Incan sites

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If you think Peru has only one Incan site, you are in for a surprise. From the citadel of Sacsayhuamán and archaeological site of Moray to Choquequirao Archaeological Park and Ollantaytambo, the whole country is full of ancient ruins that should be included in your Peru itinerary. All these Peru tourist attractions are equally spectacular and promise breath-taking adventure to all types of travelers.

4. Stay in the capital city of Lima

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Lima, sprawling urban capital of Peru, has everything from interesting art and fascinating culture to delicious food and peppy nightlife for you. Some of the best things to do in Lima are centered around the Main Square. You can also take a tour of Larco Museum, go to Huaca Pucllana, explore the catacombs at Basílica y Convento de San Francisco de Lima, and catch the fountain-light show at Park of the Reserve when during your trip to Lima. With so many attractions, no doubt Lima plays a significant role in Peru tourism.

5. Embark on the adventure at Colca Canyon

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Wondering what to do in Peru? Lace up your shoes and hike the astoundingly scenic Colca Canyon. One of the deepest canyons in the world, Colca Canyon is not an easy hike. Be prepared for steep climbs and harsh sun for at least a couple of days to make the best of your time. You can also take one of the Peru tours from Arequipa so that exploring rugged Colca will be a hassle-free experience.

6. Be amazed by Nazca lines

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Fly over the Nazca Desert in southern Peru and you will be greeted with hundreds of giant straight lines slowly evolving into geometric shapes and complex animal figures, drawn on the land below. When you are pondering over what to see in Peru, these Nazca Lines should be on your list. Who created these lines? Why? What was the purpose? Numerous theories to answer these questions and you will still find it hard to get the right answers. I think that’s what makes it one of the best places to visit in Peru.

7. See the rich marine life around the Ballestas Islands

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Take a 2-hour boat tour from the resort town of Paracas and reach as close to Ballestas Islands as possible only to witness the world so pristine that it will leave you speechless. This group of small islands makes for an important sanctuary for marine life and colonies of local as well as migrating birds. If you are interested in including something unique in your Peru travel, then a trip to Ballestas Islands is a must.

8. Travel through The Sacred Valley of the Incas

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Shrouded in mystery, The Sacred Valley of the Incas is the history carved in stones. Your trip to Peru cannot be complete without discovering the secrets this area has hidden away. Several Inca sites combined with colonial towns and sleepy villages have become the identity of this valley. Also known as Urubamba Valley, trekking through these adventurous landscapes is one of the top things to do in Peru.

9. Explore the enchanting Amazon rainforest

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Home to several uncontacted tribes, rich wildlife, stunning waterfalls, and intriguing expanse of mature trees, exploring Amazon rainforest makes for one of the best things to do in Peru. It is unpredictable, it can get dangerous, and that is why it offers the ideal adventure. But of course, you have to be a responsible traveler while exploring the heart of this rainforest where many corners are still undiscovered.

10. Go sandboarding at Huacachina

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The tiny village of Huacachina is a stark contrast to the rest of Peru you are familiar with. Built around the desert lake, surrounded by sand dunes, it is a secluded oasis and one of the famous tourist attractions in Peru. Go boating on the lake or cruise over sand dunes, enjoy sandboarding or simply watch the sunset, Huacachina is ready to introduce you to some of the fun things to do in Peru.

11. Take the hiking tour of Rainbow Mountain

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Rainbow Mountain in Peru looks surreal, it seems challenging, and it is a perfect adventure. With layers of red, green, and yellow stretching in front of you, this whole land is definitely amongst the best things to see in Peru. Take a horse ride if you are a beginner or opt for hiking the entire route if you are an avid trekker. You will be tired and aching at the end of the trek and it will be worth all the efforts!

12. Sample Pisco sour and Pisco

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The port town of Pisco ensures you have fun while exploring its many vineyards. This is the place to sample the national drink of Peru - pisco sour. The town also offers interesting tours to Paracas National Reserve as well as fascinating Tambo Colorado. Do not forget to spend some time at Plaza De Armas to soak in the local flavor.

13. Witness the beauty of Lake Titicaca

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If you are one of those who wonder what is so special about Lake Titicaca, then you have to plan a trip to Peru to witness this spectacle for yourself. Located on the border of Bolivia and Peru with exceptionally still water, this lake is home to rare aquatic wildlife and thousands of years old ruins. Its floating islands like Taquile, Isla del Sol, and Amantani will give you a glimpse of Peruvian life and culture.

14. Go for Surfing in Mancora

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The resort town of Mancora is Peru’s best-kept secrets offering a heady mix of adventurous water sports and lively nightlife scenes. Numerous resorts here are fitting for leisure-seekers and year-round sun and wind make it ideal for surfers and kite-surfers. Staying here is the perfect way to pamper yourself during Peru travel. Do not forget to try delicious local seafood delicacies when you are in Mancora.

15. Trek the Huayhuash Circuit

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One of the best Alpine treks, Huayhuash Circuit is not for amateurs. Different multi-day treks will introduce you to breathtakingly beautiful lakes, majestic peaks, and relaxing hot springs. The ideal choice for trekking Huayhuash Alpine route is to book guided Huaraz hiking and camping tours as it will be safe and hassle-free. Make sure to include this in your Peru itinerary if you are an outdoor enthusiast.

Now that this Peru travel blog has introduced you to the exciting country, all you need is to pack your bags and fly to Peru!