Yes, we know, Machu Picchu is basically the synonym of Peru but that doesn’t mean it is the only thing to see in this South American gem. Our country is widely diverse, not only in culture but in history and nature as well, which is why we’d love to show you some of the not-so-touristy attractions in Peru but yet as impressive as the Inca Citadel.
For those who didn’t know, the Inca Empire only lasted for a century and though its growth makes it look like a millenial-old civilization, it was actually short but greatly important to our history. Therefore, Peru holds some pre-Inca relics that are totally worth discovering!
Likewise, when it comes to natural wonders, there are tons of them spreaded across the entire country. Our three natural regions are another perfect reason to choose Peru as your main travel destination in South America, where lush rainforest, scenic beaches and towering snow-capped peaks will make you fall in love with our diversity.
As you can see, Peru is so much more than Machu Picchu and we want you to know at least a part of it without missing the best things along your desired travel itinerary. Here you’ll find the best off-the-beaten-path attractions in Peru!
But before we get to it, check these pointers and jump in to your desired travel destination:
The Enigmas Along the Coast & Desert
The Peruvian coast and desert were the birthplaces of many ancient civilizations, some of them contemporary to the Egyptian and Mesopotamian cultures. Therefore, these regions hold an impressive historical heritage and though little is known about these thousands-of-years-old societies, their archeological remains tell part of their story.
Nonetheless, nature is another highlight of the region, where scenic beaches and paradisiac spots in the middle of the desert have made it one of the most sought after summer destinations in the country. We want you to see it by yourself, so here we have gathered some of the attractions you simply can’t miss:
1. The Citadel of Caral
This is one of the most important archeological findings in our territory since it is believed to be the oldest citadel of the Americas. However, the place wasn’t taken into consideration until the year 2000, when further research revealed its actual antiquity.
The Citadel of Caral is over 5,000 years old since it was developed between 3,000 and 1,800 B.C. Therefore, it is believed that this ancient civilization could have been the mother to all Andean cultures in Peruvian territory.
According to experts, Caral could have lived a peaceful period since there weren’t any signs of war or weapons among the archeological findings of the region and its surroundings. Impressively, Caral was an economic capital dedicated to the trading of their agricultural products with the inhabitants of the Peruvian coastside and other parts of the area.
This ancient citadel was the beginning of an era and you can experience this important part of our history from Lima. The archeological site is located 184 km from Lima and we have the perfect excursion for you! Check this blog about our Caral Tour while you’re here.
2. Chan Chan Citadel
If you love history as much as we do, then you certainly can’t forget to pass by the largest adobe city of ancient America. The Chan Chan citadel is probably the principal attraction within Trujillo since it expands to 20 square kilometers and comprises several walled precincts with intriguing carvings on their surface.
According to archeologists, the Chan Chan citadel was built by the Chimu culture around 900 A.D. and it’s one of the biggest archaeological findings in northern Peru. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 due to its historical importance and impressive structures.
This archeological complex is famous for its large extension and distribution, with administrative, ceremonial, residential and work areas precisely designated. The architectural style varies depending on the zone, allowing the Chimu to differentiate their social-economic classes.
The entire citadel is enclosed by a large adobe wall with beautiful engravings of animals and geometrical figures, integrating their symbolism and sacred belief into the architecture of the entire capital. Would you like to discover this impressive site? Check this Trujillo travel package and experience it in person!
3. Huanchaco Beach
As you make your way through history, there’s no better break than going to the beach and just unwinding your mind to the sound of the waves, especially in Peru, where the gastronomy is undoubtedly delicious!
The Huanchaco beach is the perfect stop for those looking to just take a break from the tourist attractions, though it’s been gaining popularity over the years since it is located near such majestic archaeological sites and offers the perfect setting to surf in Peru.
Besides, the northern gastronomic expression is as delightful as you can imagine, this is surely the perfect place to try ceviche and a refreshing Pisco sour, while watching the sunset from the Pacific ocean’s shores.
Also, you’ll get to discover the Caballito de Totora, an ancient boat made entirely of totora reed, a tradition that has been carried out since pre-Inca times. Certainly an unmissable destination in northern Peru!
4. Huacachina
This is by far the most popular travel destination south of Lima and if you have noticed, it has gained a lot of popularity among travel bloggers and instagrammers. In case you didn’t get the hint at the beginning of the blog, this is the only natural oasis in South America and comprises a beautiful setting to just relax, disconnect from the world and most importantly, have fun.
Huacachina is located only 15 minutes away from the city of Ica and it’s considered as the perfect getaway from Lima thanks to its isolated location and natural landscapes, where towering sand dunes surround a deep green lagoon.
The most exciting part of visiting Huacachina is taking the dune buggy and sandboarding tour, which will allow you to cruise the desert dunes as if you were on a roller coaster, to later slide down on a sandboard!
5. Paracas
Among the most popular things to do in the Peruvian coast, Paracas is the perfect getaway destination from Lima. This beautiful beach town is surrounded by the vast pacific ocean and the arid desert of the country, creating a magical scenery home to an extensive maritime fauna.
In case you didn’t know, the Paracas Peninsula holds the most biodiverse place on the coastside of the country, a group of islands and rock formations called Ballestas Islands. This part of the region is home to exotic birds, humboldt penguins, the largest colony of sea lions and if you’re lucky enough you’ll also spot bottlenose dolphins on the way to this beautiful place.
Likewise, the Paracas National Reserve is another of the best things to do in Paracas, since it’s the place where the desert meets the sea, an arid paradise with vivid colors, paradisiac beaches and the refreshing breeze of the ocean.
6. The Nazca Lines
Personally, we would have considered it rude to leave the enigmatic Nazca Lines out of this listing. These ancient geoglyphs are a riddle yet to be solved but certainly a wonder of the ancient world that has left us totally intrigued and captivated.
The enormous figures have remained a mystery though being studied for over 80 years. However, as new research is carried out on the site, new information has come to surface, allowing us to understand a bit more of this enigmatic archeological site.
The Nazca Lines were allegedly created by the Nazca culture and though there are tons of hypotheses ranging from its use as an astronomical calendar to a landing site of an extraterrestrial spacecraft, the site could have been used for ceremonial purposes.
Currently, the only way to fully appreciate these enormous geoglyphs is by taking a flight over the Nazca lines, which takes about 35 minutes in total but allows you to see the most well-preserved figures from above the clouds.
As you can see, the coastside region also holds its secrets and natural wonders that make it the perfect stopover destination for discovering southern Peru. Likewise, there are even more attractions that you should know about, and we have the right information for you! Check our Peru travel guides to know more.
A Mythical Journey Through the Andes
As you may know, the Andes was the birthplace to many ancient civilizations, where some of them influenced the development of the succeeding cultures, while the latest ones left a prevailing legacy in the heart of each region.
For that reason, the Peruvian mountainside holds beautiful beliefs and ancient traditions that have been carried out through generations until the current date. Besides, the natural wonders of this region are undeniably impressive, with several snow-capped mountains, greenish valleys and turquoise-water lagoons.
Therefore, the Andes offer the most complete travel experience in our country, comprising culture, history and adventure sports from edge to edge. Here we have listed the most impressive natural wonders and archeological sites for you!
If you’re more into nature, here are some attractions that you should consider including in your itinerary:
1. Laguna Churup
The Laguna Churup is one of those dream-like locations that make you feel as if you were part of a real life fantasy, where it’s colorful and clear waters will leave you spellbound to its greatness while the majestic Churup snow-capped mountain blesses your way to it.
The Churup Lagoon is situated at a 45 minute drive from Huaraz. However, don’t let its closeness fool you since it sits on an elevation of 4,450 meters above sea level.
For that reason, you shouldn’t underestimate this trail since it could be very difficult depending on your physical condition and acclimatization. However, all that hard work will be paid off as soon as you reach the destination.
Thanks to its mineral-rich water, the lagoon has a peculiar coloration that makes it even more impressive. While in direct sunlight, you can spot around seven colors in its water, which is why it is also known as the Lagoon of 7 Colors.
The trail has a moderate to challenging difficulty level and takes about 3.5 hours to complete on the way up. If you’re up to this adventure, we have the right excursion for you! Check our Laguna Churup Trek itinerary on this blog.
2. Nevado Pastoruri
Although while traveling we look to escape from our reality, there are certain factors that can’t be ignored. And if you’re into a more natural-focused experience, then you should know about how our world has been changing and reacting to global warming.
The Nevado Pastoruri is one of the most sought-after attractions due to its impressive scenery and because of how easily accessible it is. In spite of the fact that this natural wonder is located at 5,240 meters above sea level, you can get there by just taking a car ride from Huaraz and a short walk to its summit.
However as time passes by and climate change continues to drastically impact our planet, the Pastoruri snow-capped mountain has lost over 40% of ice in the past 60 years. On top of that, some specialists say that this natural wonder might lose its entire glacier surface in 10 years from now.
Therefore, if you’re looking to experience this and other snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca as beautiful as they are, now it’s the time.
The Climate Change Route looks to raise awareness of climate change and human impact on our planet. With this excursion, you’ll get to know more about this matter while also experiencing one of the most visually-striking landscapes of the Huascarán National Park.
3. Colca Canyon
The southern Andes of Peru hold many attractions and one of the most distinguishable is the Colca Canyon, located near the White City of Arequipa. In case you haven’t heard of this natural wonder, it is believed to be one of the deepest canyons in the world, offering a complete immersion in the natural setting and culture of the region.
There are different ways to get to the Colca Canyon, which means you can join a multiple-day trek or a full day tour to explore this magical place. Likewise, the canyon is surrounded by several villages, Chivay being the most emblematic among all of them.
Also, the region was previously inhabited by ancient civilizations, where some of them date back to 5000 B.C. However, these ancient Peruvians didn’t settle here until 200 B.C. leaving Colcas and agricultural terraces scattered all over the region and some of them are in current use by local farmers.
4. Lake Titicaca
Also known as the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca may not be an off-the-beaten-track attraction but it certainly is an alternative for those looking to visit other destinations in Peru besides Machu Picchu.
The lake has an impressive natural setting, comprising a floating utopy called the Floating Islands of Uros, where a community lives isolated from the outside world on woven totora reed islands on this massive water body.
Likewise, the cultural expression of this place is undeniably beautiful, as well as one of the oldest since its inhabitants have maintained their traditions alive for centuries in spite of the native erasure imposed by the Spanish crown during the colonization era.
You can experience this vivid culture from the very heart of the lake, at the Taquile and Amantani islands, two natural islands located further away from the shores of Titicaca, comprising awe-inspiring natural landscapes.
If you’re looking to experience one of the most mystical places of the Andes, make sure to know everything about the Lake Titicaca Homestay Experience while you’re here!
5. The 7 Lakes of Ausangate
The Vilcanota mountain range holds an outstanding natural landscape, where towering snow-capped peaks, turquoise-water lagoons and the Rainbow Mountain itself harmonically converge to make a dream-like scenery.
In case you didn’t know, there’s a tall mountain that looms over the city of Cusco during the brightest days, which also was considered a mighty Apu to the Inca culture. The Ausangate Mountain is surely one of the most impressive mounts in Cusco and this is one of the many ways to experience it.
Although this trek won’t take you as far as its summit, you’ll be able to get fully immersed in the beautiful surroundings of the region, while also visiting 7 lakes that originate from this massive snow-capped mountain.
The 7 Lakes of Ausangate Trek will take you on an awe-inspiring journey through the Andes, where you’ll get to meet an ancient cultural expression at the very heart of the mountain range and a natural landscape like no other.
Just in case visiting archeological sites are a must for you, here are some historical monuments you definitely can’t overlook during your trip:
1. Waqrapukara
Among the different things to do in Cusco, Waqrapukara is certainly one of the most impressive attractions near the Imperial City. Although the structure wasn’t originally constructed by the Incas, the site is a total masterpiece situated at the edge of the Apurimac Canyon.
Waqrapukara is one of those off-the-beaten-track attractions that, if you’re the adventurous traveler type, you should definitely include it in your itinerary. The site was traced back to the Qanchis culture, a civilization that was established in these lands around 2500 B.C.
However, it is uncertain to know the purpose it had during the pre-Columbian era. Some historians point it out as an astronomical observatory or a religious sanctuary of the Qanchis, which also served as a fortress against the Inca Empire.
The archaeological site is located at 4,300 meters above sea level and comprises an impressive natural setting, surrounded by agricultural terraces, chambers and cobbled stone stairs.
You can visit Waqra Pukara on a full day trek, but we have to highlight that the trail is quite challenging due to its steep inclines and the altitude.
2. Choquequirao
For those who didn’t know, Machu Picchu has a sacred sister and it’s located at the heart of the cloud forest, in a remote location that not even the Spaniards could have discovered. Choquequirao is thought to be the last Inca refuge and one of their most impressive structures.
The archaeological complex comprises over 1,000 hectares and only 30% of them have been fully excavated. It is linked to the Inca Citadel due to their similarities in architectural style and distribution.
Currently, the only way to get to this wonder of ancient Peru is by a 4-day trek through the cloud forest. It has a moderate to challenging difficulty but trust us, all that effort will be paid off day by day.
On this adventure, you’ll be crossing different ecosystems with sublime mountain landscapes home to the famous Andean Condor. The trail starts at 2,900 meters above sea level and goes all the way to 3,050 meters on its highest peak.
3. Chavin de Huantar
Chavín de Huantar is one of the most important pre-Inca settlements of ancient Peru. The famous structure was built by the Chavin culture, which developed between 1500 and 300 B.C. which according to many archeologists and historians, this ancient civilization could have been the mother to many Andean cultures including the Incas.
The pre-Columbian remains were built around 1500 B.C. and served as the administrative-ceremonial center of the Chavin people. The archeological complex is composed of several structures and covers an extension of 12,000 m2.
Although the site was partially damaged by floods and seismic activity, it has remained nearly intact. It was here that some of the most important archeological findings were discovered, such as the Lanzón Monolith, the Raimondi Stele and the Obelisco Tello.
If you love history as much as we do, then you should include this impressive attraction in your Huaraz travel itinerary. Luckily, we have a Chavin de Huantar Tour for you to check!
4. Sillustani
Sillustani holds impressive architectural and engineering techniques though being developed around the XV century. The Kollas were recognized for their perfectly carved stones, a legacy replicated by the famous Inca culture.
The archaeological site is located facing the Umayo Lagoon, surrounded by towering mountains and extensive valleys, a beautiful natural scenery complemented with this outstanding native work.
The complex is composed of dozens of funerary towers in the outskirts of the Folkloric Capital of Peru, built by the Colla people, a civilization later conquered by the Incas.
This civilization was characterized for their excellent architectural work and carved stones, being the Sillustani burial towers one of the perfect examples of this ancient knowledge. Puno is so much more than Lake Titicaca, if you’d like to visit this wonder of ancient Peru, our Sillustani Tour can do the work!
As you can see, planning a trip to Peru couldn’t be easier if you have the right information. Our country is widely diverse and there are even more things to know than these few places. If you’re eager to know much more about our country, contact our travel experts and we’ll make sure to put together an unforgettable itinerary through these mystical lands.
An Expedition in the Rainforest
For those looking to experience the lush nature of the Amazon basin, Peru is one of the main options to do so since it holds the second-largest part of the South American jungle. There are different spots to experience this natural wonders, with many adventures that will allow you to reconnect with nature at its fullest.
Likewise, some of these places will let you get to know the local daily life of this region, while also teaching you the importance and impact of the so-called Lungs of the Earth. Here are three special spots to experience this tropical paradise:
1. Tambopata National Reserve
This national reserve is one of the most visited parts of the Peruvian jungle since it is easily accessible from the city of Puerto Maldonado. It is considered as one of the most biodiverse places on the planet since it gathers thousands of plant and animal species.
Therefore, it is very popular among visitors thanks to the different ecolodges that offer a total immersion in the lush nature of the region. Likewise, they look to promote and raise awareness about the importance and impact of this beautiful natural resource on the world.
The Tambopata National Reserve extends to 275,000 hectares, comprising 632 bird species, 1,200 types of butterflies, 103 amphibians, 180 fishes, 169 mammals and 103 reptiles.
Here you’ll be able to have a more intimate experience with nature, while also getting to know about the daily life of the locals that inhabit this remote location. Here at Viagens Machu Picchu, we have partnered with the Inkaterra hotel chain, which offers eco-friendly excursions and low-ecological footprint facilities.
2. Chachapoyas
This important region is located in the northern high jungle of Peru and comprises beautiful natural scenery with many ancestral mysteries and a delicious gastronomic experience. Chachapoyas is one of the most beautiful towns in the limit of the Amazon and the Andes, where you’ll be completely immersed in the lush nature of the region.
When it comes to history, Chachapoyas lies a few kilometers away from one of the oldest structures in Peru. The Archeological Site of Kuelap is the main attraction here since it was the lost citadel of the Chachapoyas culture.
Kuelap holds an impressive architecture with structures that rise up to 7 meters of height, and a defensive wall that surpasses the 19 meters of altitude at some points. Most of the buildings found in this archeological site have a rounded shape and about 505 of them were used as residential areas.
Another famous destination here is the Gocta Waterfall, which is the 17th tallest waterfall in the entire world, and the tallest in Peru. To get there, you’ll have to cross 6 kilometers of dense jungle, an adventure that you’ll surely love.
If you’d like to know more about the things to do in this region, our Amazon & Machu Picchu travel package will take you to these and other beautiful attractions near this town in the middle of the jungle.
3. Iquitos
If you’re looking for a deeper immersion in the Peruvian Amazon basin, Iquitos is the best place to go! This region is located at the very heart of the rainforest and allows its visitors to experience even more than just nature.
Our Wonders of Peru & Iquitos travel package, takes you on an expedition through the Amazon, while also staying in the Amazonas Sinchicuy Lodge, right at the banks of the Amazon river. Here you’ll get to explore the jungle like a total expert, while also getting to know the Santa Maria de Ojeal community on a cultural experience journey.
Besides, the overall adventure is complemented with nocturnal walks through the lush vegetation of the region and the famous Kingdom of Giant Trees, without forgetting another beautiful experience where you’ll get to leave your mark in the jungle by planting a tree just before your departure.
As you can see, Peru is, undeniably, the most complete travel destination in South America and though we didn’t get to mention everything this country has to offer, you’ll surely love to experience any of these attractions.
If you’re eager to start planning your trip to Peru but don’t know where to start, check our travel packages and get to know the different itineraries we have for you!