Peru is a fascinating country to explore. It has Inca ruins, the Amazon, and even attracts surfers who come to ride the waves along its coastline. In fact, there are so many different experiences that you can have here that one visit just isn’t enough (that’s why I’ve been twice!)
But if you only have time for one visit, you don’t want to miss out on the very best that Peru has to offer. Here are my favourite top 3 places to visit in Peru to inspire you.
1. See The Ancient Wonder of Machu Picchu
If I had to pick one it has to be the majestic Machu Picchu. This new Seventh Wonder of the World is not only one of the most magical places in Peru but it is also one of the most magical places that I have ever been to.
You don’t have to hike the Inca Trail to see it either as a short bus ride takes you from Aguas Calientes (the nearest town) to this famous Inca site.
Built in the 15th century, this sacred site is an iconic symbol of the Inca empire and has managed to preserve its architecture of terraces and temples. Perched high up in the Andes, it was rediscovered by an explorer called Hiram Bingham and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
You can even get a Machu Picchu stamp in your passport too! Follow in my footsteps and walk back down the mountain afterwards to really absorb the magical energy without the crowds.
2. Spend Time With The Uros Tribe
Peru is definitely a country for history and ancient civilisations but it’s not just about the ancient civilisations here as you can actually visit one of the living tribes.
Visiting the Uros Floating Islands was a highlight of my trip. These tiny islands are made entirely of reeds, and spending time with the Uru people gave me a better understanding of their resourceful way of life that has endured for generations. It was really interesting to learn how they’ve adapted while preserving their traditions.
On Taquile Island, I had the chance to meet locals whose weaving skills are so intricate they’ve been recognized by UNESCO. Watching them work and hearing about the stories woven into each piece added another layer to my appreciation for the region’s culture.
Sharing meals with a local family and hearing about their daily lives gave me a deeper connection to the area and it’s a great way to experience the culture up close.
3. Visit the White City of Arequipa
This one may surprise you as it isn’t one of the Inca sites but this cosy little city in the south of Peru is definitely one to see. Known as the ‘White City,’ it is very different to the rest of Peru. Surrounded by volcanoes, the buildings are built from the white volcanic stone giving it its white name. And its historic centre is that pretty that it’s even a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Plaza de Armas is where it’s at, especially the grand cathedral that is the main focal point. The vision of the cathedral against the backdrop of the volcano is stunning. Make sure to see the Santa Catalina Monastery too. Its sprawling complex was once a secluded convent so it’s incredibly peaceful to wander through its narrow streets.
At night the square is even more special as the cathedral glows in a soft lighting creating a magical ambiance.
As well as the gorgeous photo opportunities here, another reason to come is to see the mummy of an Inca girl. Known as the ‘Inca Ice Maiden,’ this well-preserved mummy is an Inca girl called Juanita who is thought to have been sacrificed more than 5 centuries ago.
I stopped in Arequipa on the way to Chile before I travelled across the border but it’s also a good base to explore the Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons.
Ready To Go To Peru?
I initially went to Peru on a G Adventures Trip over three weeks to Peru, Bolivia and Chile. The second time I went back to Peru I was solo.
If I have inspired you to go to Peru, make sure you check out G Adventures tours. I loved my tour with them and they currently have their Great Adventure Sale on until 31st January where you can save up to 25% on hundreds of trips! You can see two of these places on their 14 day Peru: Ancient Cities & the Andes tour.
Plus, Peru is one of the destinations for their new Solo-ish tours – trips exclusively for solo travellers that have been designed for anyone who wants to experience adventure, while making amazing connections along the way. The trips are also led by female tour guides.
