Best Places To See In Peru

Cuzco

Where Inca and Colonial History Meet

Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cuzco remains one of South America’s most fascinating cities. Inca stone walls sit beneath Spanish colonial buildings, while lively squares, local markets and traditional festivals create an atmosphere that feels both historic and lived-in.

You can spend your days exploring the Plaza de Armas, visiting the impressive Qorikancha Temple, browsing San Pedro Market or wandering the city’s narrow cobbled streets. Just above Cuzco sits Sacsayhuamán, an extraordinary archaeological site whose enormous stone blocks continue to puzzle historians.

Cuzco is also where many people begin acclimatising to Peru’s altitude. Sitting at around 3,400 metres above sea level, it’s not unusual to feel slightly breathless when climbing stairs or walking uphill during your first day or two. Taking things slowly and allowing time to adjust can make a huge difference to the rest of your holiday.

Many itineraries include at least two nights here before moving on to the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu or the Inca Trail.

Best time to visit: May to September generally offers the driest weather and clearest skies. April, October and early November often provide a good balance between favourable weather and fewer visitors.

Machu Picchu

The Lost City of the Incas

No list of Peru’s highlights would be complete without Machu Picchu.

Perched high amongst steep green mountains, the Inca citadel remains one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites. While the ruins themselves are impressive, it’s often the setting that leaves the strongest impression. Surrounded by cloud forest and dramatic peaks, it feels far more remote than many people expect.

You can arrive by train through the Sacred Valley or reach the site on foot via one of Peru’s famous trekking routes. From here, it’s a short bus ride or uphill walk to the entrance, making it easier to visit early in the morning before the site becomes busier. Once inside, you’ll find temples, terraces and ceremonial structures that reveal the sophistication of the Inca civilisation. Most people stay overnight in the small town of Aguas Calientes, located at the foot of Machu Picchu.

If you’re feeling energetic, permits are available to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for elevated views across the site. Alternatively, arriving via the Sun Gate offers a memorable first glimpse of the citadel.

One thing to be aware of is that Machu Picchu has become increasingly regulated. Entry times, visitor circuits and permit numbers are carefully controlled, so booking well in advance is essential.

Best time to visit: April to October generally offers the most reliable weather. June, July and August are the busiest months.

Peruvian Amazon (Tambopata Reserve) - South

Into the Amazon Rainforest

Tambopata offers one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to experience the Amazon rainforest.

Reached via Puerto Maldonado, the region is home to comfortable jungle lodges surrounded by extraordinary biodiversity. Wildlife encounters can begin almost immediately after arrival.

You can search for monkeys, sloths, giant river otters, caiman and hundreds of bird species. The region’s famous clay licks attract large numbers of parrots and macaws, creating one of the Amazon’s most colourful wildlife spectacles.

Days are usually spent combining guided walks, boat excursions and wildlife viewing. It’s worth remembering that this is still rainforest. Expect heat, humidity, insects and occasional rain regardless of the season.

Best time to visit: May to October generally brings drier conditions and easier walking trails. November to April is wetter but often greener.

Arequipa

Peru's White City

Built from pale volcanic stone and framed by snow-capped volcanoes, Arequipa is often considered Peru’s most attractive city.

Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with elegant colonial buildings, cafés and beautiful public squares. The Santa Catalina Monastery is one of the city’s highlights, occupying an entire city block and feeling almost like a city within a city.

Arequipa is also known for its food. Regional dishes differ from those found in Lima and Cuzco, making it an excellent destination for anyone interested in Peruvian cuisine.

Many itineraries treat Arequipa as a stop before Colca Canyon, but we think it’s worth allowing time to explore properly.

Best time to visit: April to November generally offers dry conditions and clear views of the surrounding volcanoes.

Paracas & Huacachina

Wildlife, Desert Landscapes and Adventure

If you’re looking to experience a different side of Peru, Paracas and Huacachina make an excellent addition to an itinerary, particularly if you’re travelling between Lima and the south of the country.

Paracas sits on Peru’s Pacific coast and is best known for the nearby Ballestas Islands. Often referred to as the “Poor Man’s Galápagos”, the islands are home to sea lions, Humboldt penguins, pelicans and a variety of seabirds. While they don’t rival the wildlife of the Galápagos Islands, they offer one of Peru’s most accessible wildlife experiences and a fascinating contrast to the Andes and Amazon.

Just over an hour inland lies Huacachina, a small desert oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes. The setting feels almost surreal and is unlike anywhere else in Peru. You can climb the dunes for panoramic views, try sandboarding or head out on a dune buggy adventure as the sun begins to set. Sunset is often the highlight, when the desert takes on golden and orange hues and temperatures become more comfortable.

Best time to visit: The region can be visited year-round thanks to its dry desert climate. December to April generally offers the warmest temperatures and clearest skies, although Paracas and Huacachina remain popular throughout the year.