What’s newGlobal Highlights

Highlights

Peru — Top 10 Highlights

← Back to Highlights

Explore the essentials of Peru with precise pins and a quick-scan overview—clean, fast, no popups.

Current time in MachupicchuTime difference: Machupicchu ↔ LondonTime difference: Machupicchu ↔ New YorkTime difference: Machupicchu ↔ Berlin

Tip: Open individual spots in Google Maps from the table below.

Legend
Why go — quick legend
  1. Machu Picchu — Marvel at the iconic Inca citadel with breathtaking views…
  2. Cusco — Discover the ancient capital of the Inca Empire steeped i…
  3. Nazca Lines — Gaze at the mysterious geoglyphs etched into the desert l…
  4. Sacred Valley — Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich history of this …
  5. Arequipa — Immerse in stunning colonial architecture set against vol…
  6. Colca Canyon — Witness one of Earth's deepest canyons, spot Andean condo…
  7. Lake Titicaca — Sail the world's highest navigable lake and connect with …
  8. Lima Historic Centre — Immerse yourself in the colonial past, with stunning cath…
  9. Chan Chan — Explore the vast adobe city ruins of Chan Chan, echoing t…
  10. Huascarán National Park — Experience remarkable biodiversity and majestic peaks, id…

Peru — Top 10 Highlights (Overview)

Swipe to see more columns →

# / NameWhy goSignificanceSinceCategory
Machu Picchu
Machupicchu · Cusco
Marvel at the iconic Inca citadel with breathtaking views of the Andes.An ancient Inca site, showcasing advanced engineering and cultural achievements.15th c.Cultural Heritage
Cusco
Distrito de Cusco · Cusco
Discover the ancient capital of the Inca Empire steeped in history.A fusion of Inca and colonial architecture, it's a UNESCO World Heritage site.13th c.Cultural Heritage
Nazca Lines
El Ingenio · Ica
Gaze at the mysterious geoglyphs etched into the desert landscape.These enigmatic designs remain a testament to ancient Nazca culture.500 BCCultural Heritage
Sacred Valley
Urquillos · Cusco
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich history of this valley.Once the heart of the Inca Empire, it holds historical and cultural value.— (natural)Outdoor
Arequipa
Arequipa · Arequipa
Immerse in stunning colonial architecture set against volcanic landscapes.Known as the White City’ for its sillar stone buildings, it's culturally important.1540Cultural Heritage
Colca Canyon
Pinchollo · Arequipa
Witness one of Earth's deepest canyons, spot Andean condors soaring, and explore vibrant pre-Inca cultures.A geological marvel, the canyon is a living repository of Andean cultural history and agricultural techniques.— (natural)Outdoor
Lake Titicaca
Sail the world's highest navigable lake and connect with rich Andean legends and indigenous culture.This vast high-altitude lake is a natural wonder and a cradle of Andean civilization.— (natural)Outdoor
Lima Historic Centre
Lima · Lima
Immerse yourself in the colonial past, with stunning cathedrals and vibrant plazas in Lima’s core.A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it epitomizes Peru's rich colonial heritage and urban growth.1972Cultural Heritage
Chan Chan
El Milagro · La Libertad
Explore the vast adobe city ruins of Chan Chan, echoing the grandeur of pre-Columbian South America.Once the capital of Chimor, this site highlights advanced urban planning of the pre-Columbian era.C. 850Cultural Heritage
Huascarán National Park
San Miguel de Aco · Ancash
Experience remarkable biodiversity and majestic peaks, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it conserves unique flora and fauna and offers crucial scientific insights.1985Cultural Heritage

“Since” dates reflect earliest public access (opening/consecration/founding) or UNESCO/natural markers. Natural sites show “— (natural)”.

Explore by province

Click a city to open its highlights page. Provinces appear only when at least one city exists.

Hidden gems · Insider picks

Three lesser-known spots worth a detour—remote, scenic, or just special

Kuelap

Amazonas Region

Ancient fortress offering stunning views and fewer crowds compared to Machu Picchu.

Logistics: Accessible via Chachapoyas, with a cable car to improve accessibility.

Open in Maps

Updated: 2025-09

Huacachina Oasis

Ica Region

Unique desert oasis ideal for sandboarding and experiencing local legends.

Logistics: Located 5 km from the city of Ica, easily reachable by road.

Open in MapsWebsite

Updated: 2025-09

Gocta Waterfall

Chachapoyas, Amazonas

One of the world's tallest waterfalls set in a tranquil and lush setting.

Logistics: Reachable by a scenic hiking trail through the jungle from Cocachimba.

Open in MapsWebsite

Updated: 2025-09

When to go

Coastal RegionDec–Mar: Best for beach visits as it's summer with warm, sunny weather ideal for coastal activities.
Andes MountainsApr–Oct: Perfect for trekking including the Inca Trail, with dry days and cooler temperatures.
AmazonMay–Oct: Dry season offers less rainfall, making jungle exploration and wildlife viewing more accessible.
Cultural CitiesApr–Jun, Sep–Nov: Pleasant climate with reduced tourist crowds and lower accommodation costs.

Weather varies by region—always check local forecasts.

Safety: practical snapshot

Overall call

Peru is generally safe with common travel precautions.

  • Petty theft in crowded areas.
  • Unregistered taxi scams.
  • Altitudinal sickness in high regions.
  • Seasonal weather changes.
  • Theft at tourist hotspots.

How to travel it safely

  • Stay alert in crowded places.
  • Use registered taxis or rideshares.
  • Gradually acclimate to high altitudes.
  • Check weather forecasts before trekking.
  • Keep belongings secure and close.
  • Use hotel safes for valuables.
  • Learn basic Spanish phrases.
  • Carry copies of important documents.

Emergency: Dial local emergency number or contact your embassy.

Information subject to change; verify before travel.

Send feedback / Suggest a hidden gem

We’ll only use your email to follow up if needed.