- Exploring the coastal city of Lima
- Experiencing the tranquility of Sacred Valley and diving into ancient history
- The thrill of hiking the Inca Trail and following in the footsteps of the ancient Inca
- Walking through the historic city of Arequipa
- Taking an Amazon river cruise and spotting amazing wildlife
- Seeing the mysterious Incan Nazca Lines, and hearing potential theories of how and why they were built.
- Learning about the mysteries behind the ruins on a Machu Picchu tour
Best Things to Do in Peru
Icons & Hidden Gem Travel ExperiencesWork with a local expert planner
Play
Play
Top Peru Experiences
Unlock Community Benefits
Travel better together
- Save favorite trips and itineraries
- Get insider insights
- Receive personalized recommendations
- ... and much more
Things to do in Peru - Expert's guide
On the top of almost every traveler’s bucket list is Machu Picchu. Travel back in time as you explore the spectacular Incan citadel. The most popular way to get to this famed destination is by a four-day trek on the Incan Trail. As entry into Machu Picchu is limited, make sure you book well in advance!
Become enthralled by the beauty of the deep sapphire waters of Lake Titicaca, which was believed to be the birthplace of the sun. Spend a night on a floating island, discover lost coves, and end each day watching the sunset engulf the lake’s gleaming waters.
3. Cusco
This city, which was once the capital of the Incan empire, is immersed in ancient heritage and culture. Incan temples that line the boulevards are a testament to the regions deep-roots, while Cusco’s looming cathedrals exhibit the legacy of Spanish occupation. With an altitude of more than 11,000ft., there’s nothing quite like this city in the sky.
4. Lima
The sprawling metropolis of Lima is a wonderful matrimony of heritage and modernisation. The high-rise buildings loom over ancient temples and cathedrals. Explore more of Peru’s rich cultural history at one of Lima’s many museums, like Museo Larco, or Museo de Arte de Lima.
When you’re in Lima, indulge in the colorful food scene — the city is known as the gastronomical capital of Latin America, and boasts two restaurants that are ranked in the top 10 restaurants in the world.
There are so many ways to explore the Amazon. During high water season (December-May), navigate the vast network of the Amazon River and go wildlife spotting. During lower tide (June-November), your best method of travel is by foot — trek the Amazon rainforest, which is known for its impressive biodiversity.
6. Colca Canyon
Do not miss out on Colca Canyon, which is more than twice as deep as the Grand Canyon! Soak in the scenery by trekking down to the canyon floor, and exploring the ruins of ancient villages that inhabited the canyon.
7. Mancora
While Peru is home to beautiful coasts and beaches, Mancora is known for its surf, seafood, and year-round sun. Dive into the chronically warm waters, and relax on the white sandy beaches at Peru’s best beach town.
On the south coasts on Peru lies a curiosity that has baffled historians for decades. The Nazca lines consist of more than a thousand glyphs etched onto the arid ground. They are accompanied by ancient glyphs of animals, which are so large that they can only be seen from the air! Hop onto a plane to witness this attraction that has baffled historians and tourists alike!
9. Ayacucho
Nestled high in the Andes Mountains lie Peru’s craft capital, Ayacucho. In Ayacucho, artisan traditions have prevailed for centuries, and you can buy textiles and artwork directly from the artisans.
10. Huacachina
Three hours south of Lima lies a desert oasis town, Huacachina. Roll through the infinitesimal peaks and valleys of the sand dunes by board or buggy. End your day by the lagoon, and learn more about the legends and myths that surround the origins of Huacachina.
Top Peru Tours
Want a tailor-made trip instead?
Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:
- You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
- Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics
C
Cheryl Schoessow
Apr 2025
Highlights of Peru with Post Peruvian Amazon
This was a fantastic trip! We have taken multiple trips with Trafalgar and their attention to detail is impeccable! They take the stress out of the little details I ...
T
Trusted Customer
Feb 2025
Inca Trail Trek
Our guide Arturo was excellent. He was so knowledgeable...
H
Howard
Feb 2025
Inca Trail Trek
Arturo was great. Will definitely recommend home to...
A
Adrian
Jan 2025
Inca Trail Trek
Arturo was a fantastic leader and guide. Knowledgable, helpful, caring, experienced and amusing. This was my 11th Explore holiday and Arturo is up there with the bes...
Y
Yvonne
Jan 2025
Walking Turkey's Turquoise Coast
I loved this holiday. Great group and we did get the weather! Wal...
Practicalities & Logistics
Useful Links
Visa Information
| Visa Needed? | Link
US | N (< 183 days) | Visas to Peru for United States Citizens
UK | N (< 183 days) | Visas to Peru for United Kingdom Citizens
CA | N (< 90 days) | Visas to Peru for Canadian Citizens
AU | N (< 183 days) | Visas to Peru for Australian Citizens
NZ | N (< 183 days) | Visas to Peru for New Zealand Citizens
IN | Y | Visas to Peru for Indian Citizens
US | N (< 183 days) | Visas to Peru for United States Citizens
UK | N (< 183 days) | Visas to Peru for United Kingdom Citizens
CA | N (< 90 days) | Visas to Peru for Canadian Citizens
AU | N (< 183 days) | Visas to Peru for Australian Citizens
NZ | N (< 183 days) | Visas to Peru for New Zealand Citizens
IN | Y | Visas to Peru for Indian Citizens
About Travelstride
Find your perfect trip
An epic selection of pre-planned trips on every continent, for every style. Thousands of itineraries from over 1,000 trusted travel companies.
Save time
Use simple search and comparison tools to easily find the best trip. Don't sweat the logistics — travel providers plan for you.
Save money
Book directly with the operator. See inclusive packages for the best values, and get access to amazing deals.
Travel confidently
Read unbiased user reviews, pick the operator that suits your needs, and connect with them directly.
Sign in to reveal savings up to $700 per person!