Things To Do in Peru: Andes, Ancient Sites & Amazon

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1. Machu Picchu: Trek To Peru’s Iconic Incan Citadel & Soak In Andean Majesty

Machu Picchu ruins with vibrant flowers in the foreground and mountains in the background

High on a mistâshrouded ridge of the Vilcabamba Range, Machu Picchu’s intricate urban planning and sacred geometry reveal the Inca empire’s architectural genius. From the Sun Gate’s dawn approach to the sheltered Temple of the Sun, each stone block—crafted without mortar—aligns with celestial events and mountain peaks. Whether arriving via the classic fourâday Inca Trail or the scenic train ride from Cusco, a visit unveils both archaeological wonder and sublime natural beauty.

What to Expect

Enter through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at first light to witness Machu Picchu bathed in golden sunrise. Guided circuits cover the Main Plaza ...

2. Colca Canyon: Trek Through Peru’s Majestic Gorge & Spot Andean Condors In Flight

Majestic view of the Peruvian Andes with horses grazing

Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in places, Colca Canyon offers dramatic vistas of terraced agriculture clinging to steep walls, glacialâfed rivers at the bottom, and vibrant local villages where Aymara and Collagua traditions endure. Whether you gaze at condors circling from the Cruz del Cóndor lookout or descend to the canyon floor for a multiâday trek, Colca delivers a blend of natural grandeur and living Andean culture.

What to Expect

Most visitors begin in Chivay (3,600â¯m), joining a morning excursion to the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint to watch condors wheel overhead. Dayâhikes branch from Yanque or Sanâ¯Juan ...

3. Maras Salt Terraces: Harvest Millennia‑Old Crystal Pools & Marvel At Andean Solar Engineering

Workers harvesting salt in the Salinas de Maras salt mines, Peru.

At 3,380â¯m elevation near the village of Maras, thousands of stepped salt ponds glint like a broken mirror in the Andean sun. Guided walks along narrow earthen terraces reveal how spring water is channeled into each evaporative pan, leaving pure white salt crystals for handâharvesting. This living landscape blends traditional community labor with stunning highland panoramas of terraced fields and distant snowâcapped peaks.

What to Expect

Park at the Maras overlook and follow the stoneâlined service road down to the pan cluster. A gentle 1â¯km loop winds among familyâowned terraces: watch saltâworkers rake crystals into cone piles, then bag ...

📘 Peru Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: Peru operates on Peru Time (UTC -5) and does not observe Daylight Saving Time.

Weather: Peru has a diverse climate due to its geography. The coastal region, including Lima, is arid and mild year-round. The Andes experience a rainy season from November to March and dry, sunny weather the rest of the year. The Amazon rainforest region is hot and humid with frequent rain.

Population: Peru has a population of over 33 million people. The largest city and capital is Lima, home to nearly 10 million residents.

Size: Peru covers approximately 1.28 million square kilometers (494,000 square miles), making it the third-largest country in South America. It features coastal deserts, high mountains, and dense rainforest.

Language: Spanish is the official and most widely spoken language. Indigenous languages such as Quechua and Aymara are also recognized and spoken in rural areas.

Currency: The official currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). U.S. dollars are also accepted in some tourist areas. Credit cards are commonly used in cities, but cash is preferred in rural areas.

Safety: Peru is generally safe for travelers, though petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Visitors should remain aware of their surroundings and avoid isolated areas at night.

Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, a 10% tip is standard. Tour guides and drivers also commonly receive tips.

Electricity and Plugs: Electricity in Peru is 220V, 60Hz. Plug types A and C are common. Travelers from countries using 110V should bring a voltage converter.

Water: Tap water in Peru is not considered safe to drink. Bottled or purified water is recommended, including for brushing teeth.

Annual Visitors: Peru welcomes around 4–5 million international visitors annually. Top destinations include Machu Picchu, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Lake Titicaca.

Visa Requirements: Visitors from many countries can enter Peru visa-free for tourism for up to 90 days. A valid passport is required for all international arrivals.

Health & Vaccinations: Travelers should be up to date on standard vaccinations like measles, flu, and COVID-19. Vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and yellow fever are recommended for certain regions.

Transportation: Domestic flights, long-distance buses, and taxis are common for getting around. Major cities have rideshare services. In rural areas, transportation can be limited.

Food: Peruvian cuisine is world-renowned, featuring dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and aji de gallina. The use of local ingredients such as potatoes, corn, and quinoa is central to the cuisine.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Peruvian culture values respect and politeness. Greetings are important, and it’s customary to use formal titles. Bargaining is common in markets.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in cities and tourist areas, but service may be limited in rural regions. Local SIM cards are inexpensive and widely used.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is recommended, especially for medical coverage and adventure travel. Altitude sickness is common in the Andes, so travelers should be prepared.

Exciting Destinations

Banff Breathtaking alpine town surrounded by turquoise lakes, soaring peaks, and wildlife.

Kyoto Ancient temples, serene gardens, geisha traditions, and seasonal cherry blossoms.

Sydney Iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and coastal beauty into Australia’s most dynamic travel destination.

Egypt Ancient wonders, timeless pyramids, and the enduring mystery of the pharaohs.

Popular in Things To Do In Peru

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1. Machu Picchu: Trek To Peru’s Iconic Incan Citadel & Soak In Andean Majesty

2. Colca Canyon: Trek Through Peru’s Majestic Gorge & Spot Andean Condors In Flight

3. Maras Salt Terraces: Harvest Millennia‑Old Crystal Pools & Marvel At Andean Solar Engineering