Last Updated on March 15, 2024 by Saira Farman
Peru is brimming with untamed landscapes, pristine nature and people with open hearts and hands, all waiting for you to experience them first-hand. As with any country in South America, Peru has an abundance of culture, nature, wildlife, history, food, drinks and unique aspects, guaranteeing multiple visits. Your vacations are valuable time, and everyone wishes to enjoy themselves. Without risking missing out on any of the incredible attractions of Peru, here are our top recommendations for which you must visit. And even if you miss some on the first visit, that’s all the more reason to visit again!
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1. Witness the majesty of the Amazon!
Brazil is not the only country in South America where you can see the largest river and jungle on the planet. Peru offers you a chance to look at this mighty river with its untamed forest. Great effort has been taken to preserve the Amazon, and Peru is contributing as well, mostly via tourism. Each visit from people all around the world guarantees a positive push towards helping the preservation of the river and the jungle around it. You can still travel and experience it with guidance from certified Amazon tour guides, but we just wanted to let you know how you are helping them in the process. Combining the good and useful is the perfect outcome of any vacation.
2. Gorge yourself and scale the mountainside
A two-in-one combo! The best way to experience any culture is to eat all of the local cuisine. Peru can be a meat lovers’ paradise, but its vegetarian meals are also tasty. Since Peru is in South America, there’s no shortage of mouthwatering fruits. From ceviche, a form of raw fish salad, to exotic guinea pig meals, Peru has fantastic offers to tantalise your taste buds.
Potent vines, great spirits and finger food at the side will keep your tummy well-fed through your visit. And after you’ve stuffed yourself silly, the best way to burn those calories is to climb and hike. You are also in luck here, because Peru has no shortage of mountains, hillsides and hiking tracks. Settling your goal on the horizon and enjoying the scenery will empty your stomach, but it will fill your photo album with great memories.
3. Contribute to the culture of Cusco
Cusco is a museum turned into a town. That’s the shortest way we can describe the incredible UNESCO heritage in Peru. We can list all of the important spots like Plaza de Armas, La Compania, the church of Santo Domingo and the Inca site of Coricancha, but we would only be wasting words trying to describe them. Visiting and experiencing the vibrant culture of Peru is something you have to experience for yourself.
Nothing can replace or describe the feeling of staying inside a several centuries-old building and listening to its rich history. You also can help Peru and make a change by offering to do some creative and historic volunteer abroad work, so that you do some good for the local community. Each country’s culture thrives when people strive to preserve it. Perus culture has endured hardships through the centuries, so it needs all the help it can get.
4. Find the fabled city of Machu Picchu
Synonymous with Peru is the fabled city of Machu Picchu, and there’s no way around it. France has its Paris, China has its wall, and Peru has its Machu Picchu. The road leading up to Machu Picchu is awe-inspiring, and you will realise, without a shadow of a doubt, why the ancient Inkas chose such a place and called it sacred. Machu Picchu is located near Cusco and the Sacred Valley, but the city alone is worth a two-day visit.
If you are lucky, you will get to walk around the ancient city while the clouds are all around you and below the valley, from which the city rises. Many tales and wonders were told regarding its origins and purpose. Historians still argue that Machu Picchu is the fabled lost city in Inkas mythology. Uncovering its secrets and experiencing the spirit of Machu Picchu is something we leave up to you.
5. Dance and party at the Inty Ramy festival
Modern-day Peru was built on ancient Inkas and their empire, where every native is a distant descendant of this once-thriving culture. During winter solace, they celebrate and venerate their ancient god Inti, the Sun god. Witnessing the festival today in all its glory will transport you thru time. Inkas had a rich history and pantheon, so it’s great to see all customs who survived the test of time. The modern festival retains all of its proud roots, and you can record all the dancing, singing, costumes, food and celebrations that go along.
Peru may be nestled away in South America, outshined by its more popular destinations like Brazil and Argentina, but it’s still an important place to visit. While small, it’s packed full of history, sights, nature, food and incredible people to see and visit. A land of wonders, mystery and excitement, Peru offers a unique experience for each visitor. And even if you can fit it all inside your first visit, that’s all the more reason to come again!
