The Top 10 Peru Destinations You Want to Visit
Peru is a journey of emotions. It is thrilling, majestic, enigmatic and so much more. Why not experience it yourself? Here are ten Peru destinations that you should not miss for their natural magnificence, historical value or archeological importance.
Peru Destinations:
1. Historic Citadel of Machu Picchu in Cusco
This is Peru’s flagship destination as most people are drawn by its mystical aura, amazing mountain views, and impressive architecture at over 7,700 ft. (2,360m) above sea level. It is located on the eastern slope of the Andean mountain range in the Cusco region. Getting to Machu Picchu requires a 50-minute domestic flight from Lima to Cusco, so many people decide on a Sacred Valley-Machu Picchu-Cusco 4-day or 5-day package to really immerse themselves in the Inca culture. Many also opt for the Inca Trail to this amazing Inca archeological site, however bookings must be done months in advance due to limited access.
2. The Inca Trail
The Inca Trail network was built by Inca and pre-Inca cultures and it is an impressive 24,855 miles (40,000 Km) long. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the most famous route as it leads to the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The magic of the Inca Trail is in its combination of natural beauty, history and sheer mystery.
3. The Peru Amazon Rainforest
The Amazon Rainforest of Peru is one of the New 7 Natural Wonders of the World for its biological diversity and pristine eco-system. Only in the last few years, has tourism developed in this part of Peru that has enabled people to enjoy their stay in full-service lodges or even board luxury Amazon River cruises and experience this amazing place on earth. You can spot jaguars in their natural habitat, watch countless species of birds, or even fish for piranhas! This destination is an adventure in the making.
4. City of Cusco
Historic Cusco is an impressive combination of pre-Inca, Inca and Spanish Colonial cultures. It is home to such amazing constructions as the Koricancha or Temple of the Sun and the impressive Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman. It is also a town that includes great restaurants, bars, music and shopping.
5. The Colca Canyon in Arequipa
The Colca Canyon is the second deepest canyon in the world at 13,600 ft. (4,150m) deep. It is twice the depth of the Grand Canyon. It is also a fantastic place to capture up close the flight of the Andean condor. It is located 160 km northeast from the city of Arequipa., which is beautiful itself because of its views of the Misti volcano and its white buildings made of a volcanic rock called sillar.
6. Lake Titicaca in Puno
This lake situated in the southeastern part of the country in the Puno region is the highest navigable lake in the world at an altitude of 12,500 ft. or 3,810 meters above sea level. It has islands with many Inca and pre-Inca archeological sites. Lake Titicaca is also home to the Los Uros people who live on man-made floating islands made from dried totora.
7. The Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco
This area was an important agricultural area for the Incas along the Urubamba River. It boasts great weather all year and today it has some of the most exquisite spa hotels in the country. When you’re not at your hotel, you can take in the colors and textures of the artisan market of Pisac and
see great textile work and old trade customs in action. You can also marvel at the monumental stone fortress of Ollantaytambo where you can admire amazing views of the valley.
8. Lima the Capital of Peru
Lima or the “City of Kings” is one of the most beautiful capitals in South America and one of the few cities overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is the point of entry for tourist and a perfect start to a trip in Peru as it offers a rich colonial history, important archeological sites, a vibrant nightlife, magnificent museums, art galleries, festivals, culture and more. It is also one of the best culinary destinations in the world.
9. The Nazca Lines in Ica
The Nazca Lines are another important destination in Peru as they are impressive as they are enigmatic. They are a series of small and large geoglyphs found in the Nazca desert whose origin no one seems to be able to explain with exactitude. Some people believe they hold religious significance for the Nazca civilization while others believe extraterrestrials placed them there. It is a place worthy of the mystical and the historical.
10. The Sand Dunes of the Ica Desert
For those who love adrenaline, the sand dunes of the Ica desert provide an outlet for adventure. They are perfect for sand boarding enthusiasts as well as buggy-riding thrill-seekers.
If you want to explore these amazing Peru destinations, Design Your Trip Here or Contact Us with your questions.