Trekking through the Andes to reach Machu Picchu is what brings many travelers to Peru. But that’s just one part of what the country has to offer. From highland villages to coastal cities, desert dunes to rainforest lodges, there’s a lot to explore beyond the Inca Trail. If you're looking for ideas or just want a better sense of what the country’s like, here’s a rundown of some of the best things to do in Peru.
With its stone temples, open plazas, and terraces carved into the mountainside, Machu Picchu is probably the most recognizable site in Peru. It’s remote, visually striking, and layered with centuries of history — even if you’re not deep into Inca facts.
If you can, aim to arrive just before sunrise. It’s worth the early start to see the sun come up over the peaks and light up the ruins.
The classic way to get there is by hiking the Inca Trail. It’s a four-day trek through cloud forest and mountain passes, with ruins scattered along the route. It’s a tough but rewarding way to approach the site, and you’ll need to book well in advance.
To get here, you’ll need to fly into Cusco first. From there, most people take a train from either Ollantaytambo or Poroy to Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Pueblo).
Once you're in town, shuttle buses take you up a winding road to the main entrance. If you're into hiking, you can also reach the site by trekking the Inca Trail or routes like Salkantay. Trains fill up fast, especially in the busy months, so it's smart to book tickets early.
The dry season (May to September) usually brings clear views, but also bigger crowds and pricier accommodation. If you’d rather avoid the rush, aim for the shoulder months—April, May, or September into October. It’s best to avoid January through March, when heavy rain can lead to trail closures.
Take the Inca trail to Machu Picchu — one of the best things to do in Peru © tsuchi/Shutterstock
If you're planning a trip to Peru, don’t overlook Kuelap — it doesn’t get nearly the same attention as Machu Picchu, but it’s just as interesting in its own way. Built by the Chachapoyas culture around 500 AD, this fortress sits high in the mountains and is surrounded by thick stone walls and round stone dwellings and is one of the best hikes in Peru.
It’s near the towns of Tingo and María in northern Peru. For a long time, it was hard to get to, but there’s now a cable car that cuts down on the hike and gives you wide views on the way up. It’s a good choice if you want something historic but less crowded.
You can fly into Jaén or Chachapoyas, then make your way to the town of Nuevo Tingo. From there, a cable car takes you up to the site in about 20 minutes—much easier than the old 3-hour hike.
If you're coming overland, buses from larger cities head to Chachapoyas, then it's a short trip by car or local van to the cable car station. The drive through the Andes is scenic and dramatic, so it’s not a bad way to go. See our guide to getting around Peru for more info.
May through September is the dry season and the best time for clear views and easier walking conditions. Morning tends to bring low-lying clouds around the fortress, which adds atmosphere without totally blocking the view.
The rainy season (December to March) can get muddy and foggy, so it’s harder to explore. If you want a quieter experience, weekdays are better than weekends.
Ancient traditional villages of Kuelap © Ludmila Ruzickova/Shutterstock
Located at around 12,630 feet (3,850 meters) in Huascarán National Park, the Lagunas de Llanganuco are two glacier-fed lakes formed from meltwater from Peru’s tallest mountain. The surrounding scenery includes steep, snow-covered peaks and sheer cliffs. This is one of the best national parks in Peru.
You can visit the lakes on a day trip from Huaraz, and it’s worth stopping for a short hike or a boat ride on the lake. Just be aware of the altitude — it’s high enough that some travelers feel it, especially if they haven’t acclimatized yet.
Most people stay in Huaraz and either book a day tour or arrange a driver for the two-hour trip into Huascarán National Park. The drive passes through small Andean villages and opens up to sweeping views of the mountains. You’ll need to pay a national park fee to enter. Road conditions can get tricky in the wet season, so a 4WD is a safer bet if you’re going on your own.
The dry months from May to September are best if you want to see the lakes under clear skies, with bright turquoise water and snowy peaks in the background.
Avoid December through March, when the rain often blocks views and makes the roads harder to manage. Even when it’s sunny, bring layers—it gets cold at such high elevations.
Visiting Lagunas de Llanganuco is one of the best things to do in Peru © Peto Laszlo/Shutterstock
Huacachina is a small desert town built around a natural lagoon, surrounded by some of the tallest sand dunes in South America. Local legend says the lagoon was created when a woman dropped her mirror while fleeing a hunter, and the broken glass turned into the water.
Today, the area draws people for sandboarding and dune buggy rides. It's hot, dry, and the sand gets everywhere — so it’s smart to bring a scarf and goggles if you’re heading out into the dunes (see our other Peru travel tips for more advice).
This tiny desert oasis is just 3 miles (5 kilometers) from Ica, so it’s a quick taxi or bus ride away. Most travelers fly into Lima, then catch a comfortable long-distance bus down to Ica (about 4–5 hours). Some include it as part of a longer coastal road trip. Once you’re there, everything’s walkable—hotels, restaurants, and activities are all centered around the lagoon.
You can visit year-round, but March through November is usually more pleasant for being out on the dunes. Midsummer (December to February) can be sweltering, especially midday. Sunset is a great time to explore—the light gets golden, the air cools down, and the dunes look dramatic. Mornings are quietest before tour groups arrive from Lima.
Sand dunes of Huacachina © Pavel Svoboda Photography/Shutterstock
Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world, sitting at 12,500 feet (3,810 meters) above sea level. It’s shared between Peru and Bolivia, and the Peruvian side is home to the Uros — floating islands made from reeds.
These islands have been around since Inca times and are still home to families who maintain the traditional way of life. You can visit for the day or stay overnight, either on the floating islands themselves or in Puno, the nearby port city. The air is thin and the climate can be cold, so be prepared for that — but the experience of being out on the lake is something different.
First, fly into Juliaca. From there, it’s about a 45-minute drive to Puno, the main jumping-off point for Lake Titicaca. Boats leave regularly from the harbor, and it takes around 30 minutes to reach the floating islands.
Some day trips also combine Uros with nearby Taquile Island. Since the lake sits at over 12,500 feet (3,812 meters), it’s a good idea to spend a night in Puno first to adjust to the altitude.
The dry season (May through September) usually means smoother boat rides and clearer skies. Mornings can be beautiful, with the sunrise reflecting on the water. From December to March, rain and wind can make things less predictable. No matter when you go, dress warmly—the high altitude keeps things chilly, especially on the lake.
Uros Islands - the floating islands of Peru © Rafal Cichawa/Shutterstock
Trujillo doesn’t get as much attention as Lima or Cusco, but it’s worth a stop. You’ll find elegant colonial buildings, colorful old mansions, and a laid-back city that’s easy to explore in just a couple of days.
It has a warm, dry climate year-round — without Lima’s fog or the extreme heat up north. People here are welcoming, and the city has a nice mix of history, art, and daily life that feels approachable.
You can fly from Lima to Trujillo in about an hour or take an overnight bus—it’s around 8–9 hours. If you're driving along the northern coast, it’s an easy stop along the Pan-American Highway.
The historic center is compact and easy to explore on foot. Local buses and taxis can get you to nearby archaeological sites like the Huacas del Sol y de la Luna.
Trujillo stays mild all year, with December through March being the warmest—there might be a few light showers. April to November tends to have clear skies, warm days, and cooler evenings. If you're in town in January, the National Marinera Festival is a highlight, with traditional dance performances filling the streets.
Have a pisco sour in Trujillo © Christian Vinces/Shutterstock
Just off the coast near Pisco, the Ballestas Islands are packed with bird and marine life. Boats head out in the morning from town and loop around the rocky islands — known for their natural arches and noisy sea lion colonies.
Along the way, you’ll likely see pelicans, boobies, penguins, dolphins, and even the occasional shark. The trip only takes a few hours, so it’s easy to work into your itinerary if you're already heading down the coast.
Stay in Pisco, then catch a morning boat tour from the local harbor. It’s about a 3-hour bus ride from Lima, and many people visit as part of a trip to the Paracas Peninsula. The tours usually pass by the Paracas Candelabra geoglyph before heading to the islands.
You can visit year-round, but May through September generally has the calmest seas. Boats usually leave around 8–9 AM, which is the best time to see wildlife. Humboldt penguins are around from April to December. It gets windy and the sun reflects off the water, so bring a windbreaker and sunscreen.
Take a day trip to the Ballestas Islands - one of the best things to do in Peru © Don Mammoser/Shutterstock
Ceviche is a staple along Peru’s coast. The cold waters of the Humboldt Current keep the Pacific full of life, making it ideal for seafood. The dish itself is simple: raw fish marinated in lime juice, salt, onions, and chilies. It’s been part of coastal cuisine for thousands of years, and you’ll find different versions across the country. If you’re into cooking, it’s easy to make at home — check out our list of six Peruvian recipes to try.
You’ll find ceviche just about everywhere along the coast. Lima has the most variety, but towns like Pisco, Trujillo, and Máncora serve more classic versions made with fresh local fish.
You can try it at markets, casual street stalls, or sit-down restaurants. In Lima, head to Miraflores or Barranco—there are plenty of cevicherías in walking distance. It's one of the best things to do in Lima.
The best time to eat ceviche is around lunch (between 12–3 PM), when the fish is freshest. Coastal towns serve it year-round, but the warmer months (December–March) are especially nice for dining outdoors. A good tip: many fish markets are closed on Mondays, so ceviche might not be as fresh that day.
Tasting Peruvian food - one of the best things to do in Peru © Christian Vinces/Shutterstock
One of the most memorable ways to experience the Amazon is from above. Near the Amazon Explorama Field Station, you’ll find canopy walkways reaching up to 115 feet (35 meters) high.
Walking through the treetops gives you a whole new view of the jungle — birds, insects, and monkeys move through the branches while the forest stretches out around you. It’s a great way to understand the scale of the rainforest without disturbing it.
Start by flying to Iquitos, then take a motorboat ride (2–3 hours) to one of the jungle lodges with canopy walkways. The Explorama walkway is well-known and needs to be booked in advance through a tour operator. Getting there usually involves a mix of flights, boat rides, and jungle treks. Keep luggage light—boats have limited space, and lodges tend to be basic but comfortable.
The dry season (May–September) makes it easier to move around and increases your chances of seeing wildlife. During the rainy season (October–April), trails can get muddy and access may be limited, but the forest is lush. Rain gear is useful year-round, since showers are common in the afternoons.
Book with one of many tour companies to experience the rainforest © Christian Vinces/Shutterstock
A few hours south of Lima, the Paracas Reserve protects a large stretch of coastal desert and sea. The waters here are packed with plankton, drawing in everything from anchovies and squid to dolphins, sea lions, and whales.
You’ll also find quiet beaches (some of the best beaches in Peru), sandstone cliffs, and archaeological remains scattered throughout the reserve. It’s a good spot for a day trip, especially if you’re already heading toward the Ballestas Islands.
The reserve is about 155 miles (250 km) south of Lima. You can get there by bus (3–4 hours) or rent a car and drive down the Pan-American Highway. Most people stay in Paracas town or nearby Pisco. There’s an entrance fee, and the visitor centers have basic info. It’s easy to pair this with a Ballestas Islands tour.
You can visit any time of year—the area stays dry, but May through September usually has lighter winds. Bird migrations happen around September–November and March–May, so those are great times for birdwatching. Bring a windbreaker and plenty of water—there’s little shade in the reserve.
Sand dunes and beach at Reserva Nacional de Paracas© Michael L. Demmons/Shutterstock
If you're into mountain scenery, the Cordillera Blanca is hard to beat. This range stretches roughly 90 to 100 miles (140 to 160 kilometers) north of Huaraz and includes some of the highest peaks in Peru, and some of the best hikes in Peru.
Day hikes and multi-day treks are both possible — and many trails lead to turquoise lakes framed by glaciers. Lake Parón near Caraz is especially striking. Yungay and Caraz are the main jumping-off points if you’re planning to explore on foot.
Fly into Lima, then catch a bus to Huaraz—it’s about an 8-hour ride and the main base for trekking in the region. If you're heading out on specific routes, Caraz and Yungay are also good starting points.
From any of these towns, you can take local transport or book through a tour agency to get to trailheads or mountain lakes. You’ll need permits and a guide for multi-day treks, but day hikes are easy to set up on your own or through local outfitters.
The dry season runs from May through September and gives you the clearest conditions for hiking and mountain views. June to August is the busiest period, but weather is typically reliable.
Shoulder months are a bit quieter and still generally good. It’s best to avoid December through March—the rainy season can make trails unsafe, and the clouds tend to hide the views. No matter when you go, bring warm layers. It's cold at altitude year-round.
Hiking in Peru, Cordillera Blanca © Pavel Svoboda Photography/Shutterstock
Sitting at the base of El Misti (19,097 ft / 5821 m), with several other volcanoes nearby, Arequipa has a dramatic backdrop that really sets the scene. The city’s known for its warm days, cooler evenings, and relatively dry climate — a nice change if you’ve been in Lima’s coastal fog.
The historic center is full of colonial-era buildings made from sillar, a white volcanic stone sourced from the nearby mountains. That’s where the nickname “The White City” comes from. You’ll come across plenty of striking churches and old mansions, especially around the Plaza de Armas, most of them built in this pale, almost glowing stone.
You can fly straight from Lima in about 1.5 hours, which is easier on your body than jumping straight into high-altitude cities. Buses take 15–16 hours but follow scenic mountain roads if you’re not in a rush. Arequipa is also easy to reach by road from places like Cusco or Puno.
Once you're in town, the historic center is walkable, with most things clustered near the main plaza, known for its white volcanic stone buildings.
The weather here is pretty consistent, with sunshine most of the year. April through November is dry season—good for walking around and checking out the volcanoes or canyons nearby.
From December to March you might get some afternoon rain, but it’s still comfortable. The city sits at 7,660 feet (2,335 meters), so it's a good place to get used to the altitude without the intense adjustment some other highland cities require. For more advice on adjusting to altitude, see our Peru travel tips.
Don't miss Arequipa when visiting Peru © JorgeAndres/Shutterstock
Ayacucho feels alive with tradition. Located in the central highlands, it’s known for its religious festivals — especially during Holy Week — and for its distinct crafts, like hand-carved altarpieces and detailed pottery.
There are more than 30 churches in the city, and walking through the historic center, you’ll see the blend of colonial and Andean culture in the architecture, art, and everyday life. It’s a good place to spend a few days if you’re looking to slow down and see a less-visited part of the Andes.
Flying from Lima takes about an hour and is a lot smoother than the long mountain road, which takes 9–10 hours by bus. The drive is scenic but winding. Once you're there, the city center is compact—you can walk to most places, including historic churches, local markets, and artisan studios. You’ll also find local transport to archaeological ruins.
May through September is the dry season and best for walking around or heading into the hills. If you're planning to be there for Semana Santa (March or April), expect big crowds and higher hotel prices—the religious processions are a major draw.
Artisan markets are open all year, selling detailed handicrafts like textiles and retablos. Bring layers. The temperatures swing a lot between day and night.
Ayacucho — one of the best things to do in Peru © Jess Kraft/Shutterstock
Just outside Cusco, Sacsayhuaman is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the region. Its origins are still debated, but the name is often translated as “satiated falcon,” “speckled head,” or “city of stone.”
The site is best known for its massive zigzag stone walls — some of the blocks are taller than a person and weigh over 100 tons. You don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate how precisely these stones were cut and fitted. It’s also where the annual Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) is held every June. This is easily one of the best things to do in Cusco.
It’s just above Cusco, and you can get there in about 15 minutes by taxi or do a steep uphill walk that takes around 45 minutes. A lot of visitors go as part of a loop that includes other nearby ruins using the Cusco tourist ticket (Boleto Turístico). There are also regular walking tours and bus options from the main plaza.
May to September is the best window for dry, clear conditions. On June 24th, Inti Raymi—the sun festival—takes place here. It's a big event, so expect crowds. If it’s rainy season, be careful—those stone surfaces get slick fast.
The ancient ruins of Sacsayhuaman — one of the best things to do in Peru © SL-Photography/Shutterstock
About 18.5 miles (30 km) southeast of Huari and a 3–4 hour trip from Huaraz, Chavín de Huantar is one of the oldest and most important archaeological sites in the Andes.
This was once a major ceremonial center for the Chavín culture, which predated the Inca by over a thousand years. What stands out here are the stone carvings — especially the Lanzón, a 15-foot (4.5 m) granite monolith tucked into the temple’s underground passages. Some of the designs are stylized human-animal hybrids, possibly tied to the cultic practices of the time.
You can reach the site from Huaraz in about 3–4 hours via mountain roads that cut through some pretty dramatic scenery. There are day trips available through local agencies, or you can drive yourself if you're confident with mountain routes. The road goes over high passes with big views.
Once there, the archaeological site includes a museum and underground chambers—those usually require a guided visit to understand the layout and carvings.
The dry months from May through September are your best bet. The drive is safer, and it’s easier to explore the site when everything’s dry. The tunnels inside the site stay cool all year, but rainy season can wash out the roads and even limit access to the ruins, so it's best avoided.
Chavin de Huantar temple complex, Ancash Province, Peru © Mark Green/Shutterstock
Máncora used to be a sleepy fishing village on the north coast. These days, it’s popular with travelers chasing good waves and warmer weather. The town stretches along the Panamericana Highway, with easy bus connections and plenty of laid-back beach bars and restaurants.
You don’t need to be a pro surfer to enjoy it — there are mellow breaks ideal for beginners, and boards are easy to rent. Even if you’re not into surfing, the town’s pace, beach views, and warm sea make it a nice detour if you’re heading north toward Ecuador.
The easiest way is to fly into Piura, then drive about 2 hours west to the coast. You can also take a direct bus from Lima, which takes around 14–16 hours along the Pan-American Highway.
Máncora is often included in northern Peru itineraries or combined with a trip across the Ecuadorian border. The beach town stretches out along the highway, with places to stay ranging from budget hostels to higher-end resorts right on the ocean (see our guide to where to stay in Peru).
Temperatures stay warm all year. December through March is the hottest period, with occasional rain. From April to November, you’ll get dry, warm days and steady surf. December to February is the busiest time, with higher prices and bigger crowds. Waves are reliable year-round.
Best place to surf on your trip to Peru © Shutterstock
In the dry northern plains near Túcume, more than twenty adobe pyramids surround a sacred hill that once drew pilgrims from across the coast. These structures date back to around 1100 AD and were built by the Sicán culture, which settled the area before the rise of the Inca.
The entire complex covers over 500 acres (200 hectares), and walking around the site gives a sense of the scale and layout of what was once a thriving ceremonial center. The pyramids have been abandoned since the 1500s, but nearby villages have small restaurants where you can stop for a bite after wandering the ruins.
The site is just outside Lambayeque in northern Peru. You can get there by bus from Lima (about 12 hours) or fly to Chiclayo, then take local transport to the site. Once there, you’ll find a small museum and a viewing platform that looks out over the pyramid complex. Most people visit as part of a wider week-long Peru itinerary that includes the Sipán tombs or Batán Grande.
The dry season (May–November) is best for clear views of the 26 adobe pyramids and the surrounding landscape, especially Cerro La Raya mountain. December through March brings rain, which can make roads tricky and sometimes limit access to the site.
The pyramids of Tucume in Lambayeque - Peru, South America © Carlos Sala Photography/Shutterstock
The Nazca Lines stretch across the desert outside the town of Nazca in southern Peru. These massive geoglyphs, carved directly into the desert surface, include animal shapes, geometric patterns, and long, straight lines that seem to go on forever.
The best way to see them is from the air. Flights leave from the Nazca airstrip and give you a clear view of the designs, many of which can’t really be seen properly from the ground. If you’re planning to do this, you’ll need to stay overnight in Nazca—it’s not a day trip from anywhere major—and you’ll want a bit of extra time to account for potential delays due to weather or visibility.
Most travelers fly into Lima, then take a bus to Nazca (7–8 hours) along the Pan-American Highway. If you're already heading south, it’s easy to include on a road trip. Flights over the lines leave from Nazca’s small airport, with both planes and helicopters available. There are also ground-level viewing towers, but they only show part of the designs. Flights are weather-dependent, so booking in advance is smart.
The area stays dry year-round, which helps keep flight conditions steady. From May to September, skies are usually clear and winds are low—ideal for flying and photos.
The mysterious Nazca Lines made by the ancient Nazca culture © Shutterstock
About twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in parts, Colca Canyon is a massive river gorge in southern Peru. Some stretches are so steep you can’t see the valley floor, while the upper slopes are still lined with ancient terraces built by the Huari and other pre-Inca cultures.
Most people visit the canyon on a tour from Arequipa. You can hike down into the canyon, stay overnight in basic lodges, and climb back up the next day. Others come to watch condors gliding on the thermal currents above the canyon rim – one of the few places in Peru where you’re almost guaranteed to see them up close.
Start in Arequipa, then either book a tour (minimum two days) or rent a car for the 3–4 hour drive. The road winds through high-altitude terrain, climbing above 16,000 feet (4,900 meters) before dropping into the canyon. Most travelers stay in Chivay, which is the main base for hikes and tours. If you’re planning a multi-day trek, you’ll need a guide and should plan ahead.
April through November is best for hiking and for seeing condors at the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint. Rainy season brings greener views but also slippery trails and more limited visibility. It gets cold up here year-round, so bring layers.
Colca Canyon, much larger than the Grand Canyon © Shutterstock
Pisac’s market, held in the town’s main square, is a lively place to browse for handmade textiles, ceramics, and silver jewelry. It’s busiest on Sundays, but many stalls are open throughout the week.
You’ll see locals shopping for produce and farmers bringing goods down from nearby villages. It’s a good place to pick up a gift or a warm alpaca jumper, and it makes an easy stop on a day trip from Cusco or while heading into the Sacred Valley.
Pisac is about 19 miles (30 kilometers) from Cusco in the Sacred Valley. It’s an easy trip by bus, taxi, or on a guided tour. The road follows the Urubamba River and passes through several small Andean towns. Many people pair the market visit with the nearby Pisac ruins. Once you're in town, everything’s within walking distance.
The full market runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Sunday is the busiest, with the most vendors and a strong local presence. Artisan stalls stay open every day, but the biggest selection is on market days.
Take a walking tour of the Pisac Market © Julieta Gonzalez Checchin/Shutterstock
Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain, is known for its colorful mineral bands that stripe the slopes at high altitude. These colors were revealed only recently as snow and ice began to melt at the summit.
Getting there involves a long drive from Cusco—about three hours each way—followed by a steep hike that starts at over 14,000 feet (4,300 meters) and climbs to over 17,000 feet (5,200 meters). Most people visit as part of a guided day trip that includes transport, meals, and oxygen if needed. Make sure you’re well acclimatized before attempting the trek. The views are worth the effort, but the altitude is no joke.
Getting to the Rainbow Mountains from Cusco is a long but doable day trip. Most tours involve a 3-hour drive each way, followed by a 2–3 hour hike at over 16,400 feet (5,000 meters). Tour companies usually handle transport, breakfast, and lunch and carry oxygen just in case.
If you want a slightly different angle or fewer people, you can also approach the trail from Pitumarca. Doing it on your own is possible, but you'll need a 4WD vehicle and solid experience hiking at high altitudes—it’s not a casual stroll.
The dry season, from May to September, is your best bet for clear views and safer trails. Most tours leave Cusco early—around 4 or 5 AM.
During the rainy season, the trail gets muddy, and the colors are harder to see. No matter when you go, spend a few days acclimating in Cusco first. This hike is at serious altitude and can be a rough time if you’re not prepared.
Rainbow mountains or Vinicunca Montana de Siete Colores, Peru © Shutterstock
written by
Rough Guides Editors
updated 26.05.2025
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