{"id":18927,"date":"2026-02-26T14:32:09","date_gmt":"2026-02-26T19:32:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/?p=18927"},"modified":"2026-03-09T10:19:44","modified_gmt":"2026-03-09T15:19:44","slug":"3-destinations-beyond-cusco-to-add-to-your-peru-itinerary","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/3-destinations-beyond-cusco-to-add-to-your-peru-itinerary\/","title":{"rendered":"3 Destinations Beyond Cusco to Add to Your Peru Itinerary"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Let\u2019s be honest: Cusco<\/strong><\/a> and Machu Picchu<\/strong> are probably the reason Peru is on your bucket list. And yes, they absolutely live up to the hype. Archaeological sites, the Sacred Valley, rainbow mountains, and more make Cusco your main reason to visit our country. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But here\u2019s the thing: Peru is much bigger, more diverse, and more surprising than most travelers expect. Within just a few hours (by flight or bus), you can go from the Andean mountains to deep blue lakes\u2026 and even to the golden desert, oases, and dunes by the ocean. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re planning 10 days or more in Peru, here are three incredible destinations beyond Cusco<\/strong> that will elevate your itinerary from \u201cgreat\u201d to \u201cunforgettable.\u201d So, let\u2019s dive into our three destination picks to choose from in Peru besides Cusco.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Puno & Lake Titicaca\u2014Culture, Color, and the World\u2019s Highest Navigable Lake<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you want to experience living Andean culture in a way that feels authentic and meaningful, head to Puno<\/strong><\/a>, the gateway to Lake Titicaca<\/strong>. The altiplanic city is considered the \u201cPeruvian capital of folklore,” as it is the hub for the Virgen de la Candelaria festival <\/strong>every February.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over 100,000 dancers and musicians dance in over 100 groups, gathering national and foreign tourists. For example, this year\u2019s edition of La Candelaria <\/strong><\/a>received almost 100,000 visitors, generating over 34 million dollars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Likewise, sitting at 3,800 meters (12,500 ft) above sea level, Lake Titicaca <\/strong><\/a>is the highest navigable lake in the world\u2014and according to the legend, the birthplace of the Incan Empire. Also popular for its floating islands, people, and distinctive culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We can say that Puno and Lake Titicaca are more than just a scenic stop; it\u2019s a cultural immersion that will captivate your eyes and soul.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Highlights You Shouldn\u2019t Miss<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Uros Floating Islands<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Indigenous Uros people<\/strong><\/a> build entire islands out of totora reeds. Yes\u2014the ground beneath your feet floats. Visiting these islands is one of the most unique cultural experiences in South America.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Taquile Island<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quieter and more traditional, Taquile is known for its UNESCO-recognized textile traditions. You can hike to viewpoints overlooking the deep blue lake and even stay overnight with a local family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amantani Island Homestay<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another important mini island in Titicaca is Amantani, popular for allowing guests to stay on its lands. In the Amantani homestay, you can have a couple of days just like locals do. The chance to interact with locals while having the best views of the lake is invaluable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sunsets Over the Lake<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The light here is unreal. Golden skies reflect across calm water, framed by distant mountains. It\u2019s peaceful, slow, and completely different from Cusco\u2019s energy.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Easy Planning Tip<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can travel from Cusco to Puno by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

-By bus:<\/strong> The most scenic route to connect both cities is the \u201cRoute of the Sun tour\u201d<\/strong><\/a> (La Ruta del Sol). Along the way, you can discover baroque-gothic architecture in magical towns, mysterious churches, and archaeological sites before reaching Puno.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

– By Train (luxury option): <\/strong>The first luxury sleeper train in South America, the Belmond Andean Explorer, provides a comfortable and picturesque trip through the Andes between Cusco and Puno (near Lake Titicaca).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During your leisurely journey through breathtaking mountain scenery, you will be able to take in expansive views from dining cars, elegant lounges, and an outdoor observation deck. The trip highlights the breathtaking Lake Titicaca in Puno, which is the world’s highest navigable lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

– Short flight via Lima<\/strong> (faster but less direct). Plan 2-3 nights here. It\u2019s enough to explore without feeling rushed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Arequipa & Colca Canyon\u2014Volcano Views and Colonial Charm<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If Cusco is historic and Puno is folkloric, then Arequipa is the most elegant and relaxed city in Peru. Known as \u201cThe White City,\u201d Arequipa <\/strong><\/a>is built from white volcanic stone and framed by dramatic volcanoes that are called <\/strong>“sillar.” The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site\u2014and it\u2019s one of the most beautiful cities in Peru.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arequipa’s three majestic guardians\u2014the volcanoes\u2014as well as its customs, cuisine, and historic streets <\/strong><\/a>have made it a popular destination. All Arequipe\u00f1os take pride in their personal signs, such as the Chachani, the Pichupichu, and the most well-known, the Misti.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Likewise, words can\u2019t describe how delicious Arequipa\u2019s gastronomy <\/strong><\/a>is. Combining ancient techniques with colonial recipes and using spiciness as their main flavor, do yourself a favor and try the best that Arequipa offers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also, from the white city, you can access one of the deepest canyons in the world, the Colca Canyon, even deeper than the US Grand Canyon. Besides its breathtaking and panoramic vistas, you can see the majestic Andean condor<\/strong><\/a> in action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

What to Do in Arequipa<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Wander the Historic Center<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arequipa\u2019s historic center is like stepping back in time and walking through a colonial city<\/strong><\/a> in the 16th century. <\/strong>The cathedral, Plaza de Armas, palm trees, and mountain backdrop make this one of Peru\u2019s most photogenic city centers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to visit the San Lazaro Neighborhood<\/strong><\/a>, which is probably the best neighborhood to visit in Arequipa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit Santa Catalina Monastery<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This 20,000-square-meter 18th-century monastery is one of Arequipa\u2019s most appreciated colonial houses. This convent feels like a city within a city. Its mysterious alleys, vibrant red walls, and fascinating history will captivate you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Get into Arequipa\u2019s food scene<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arequipa is a food capital. Spend your time visiting “picanterias,” food sanctuaries <\/strong><\/a>where Arequipa\u2019s food secrets have been conserved and passed on through generations since ancient times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Viagens Machu Picchu\u2019s favorite picks are rocoto relleno, adobo, and chupe de camarones. You must join your Arequipe\u00f1o food with chicha de gui\u00f1apo, Arequipa\u2019s most traditional beverage, and for dessert, a delicious queso helado. <\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t Forget the Colca Canyon<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

About 3\u20134 hours away lies Colca Canyon<\/strong><\/a>. The highlight? Watch giant Andean condors soar at sunrise, soak your aching body and feet in healthy and relaxing hot springs, and discover one of the most charming villages in Peru, Chivay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easy Planning Tip<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

– A 1-day tour (fast but doable), if<\/strong> you want to explore the city or the city center.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

– A 2-day tour (more relaxed). <\/strong>It will give you some extra time to get to know the city more deeply, explore its streets, and discover its restaurants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

– A multi-day trek (for adventure lovers). <\/strong>We recommend this option to include the Colca Canyon in your Arequipa itinerary. Fly from Cusco to Arequipa (about 1 hour). Stay 2\u20133 nights to enjoy both the city and the canyon.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"Blog<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

3. Paracas & Huacachina\u2014Desert Dunes and Coastal Wildlife<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Want something completely different from high-altitude mountains and ruins? Then head to Peru\u2019s coast. Paracas<\/strong> and Huacachina<\/strong> are easy to combine and add a fun, adventurous twist to your itinerary. They\u2019re just a few hours south of Lima<\/strong><\/a>, making them perfect after landing in Peru and before visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stop 1: Paracas & the Ballestas Islands<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This beautiful beach town houses the Paracas National Reserve<\/strong><\/a>, a hub of nature and wildlife, where marine and bird species are present. In Paracas, the desert cliffs meet the Pacific Ocean in stunning red-and-gold landscapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From Paracas, you can take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands<\/strong>\u2014often called the \u201cPoor Man\u2019s Gal\u00e1pagos.\u201d You can expect to see sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and many bird species.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Stop 2: Huacachina Oasis<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

About an hour away is Huacachina<\/strong><\/a>\u2014a literal oasis surrounded by massive dunes. Considered the only natural oasis in South America, the Huacachina is a destination that mixes relaxation and adventure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here\u2019s what you do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n