The Top 15 Things to See in Peru

The Top 15 Things to See in Peru: So you're planning a trip to Peru? Wonderful! You certainly won't regret your choice.

Peru is one of the most diverse countries in all of South America. Across an area roughly four times the size of Germany, you'll find almost every climate zone: from the Amazon to the Pacific coast, from snow-capped Andes to sandy deserts - the sheer variety of landscapes in Peru is virtually boundless.

As the undisputedly most famous citadel in the world, Machu Picchu is your number one photo opportunity in Peru. This 15th-century Wonder of the World is surrounded by lush green Andes and famous for its spectacular views, as well as its incredible setting high atop the mountain of the same name.

Many myths and theories surround this Inca city, perched at 2,430 metres, and its former inhabitants, lending the place a mysterious atmosphere. The legendary Inca Trail still connects Machu Picchu with Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, to this day.

The partly original path is without doubt one of the most spectacular hiking trails the world has to offer! Whether as a day trip or a four-day tour with a night in a tent, the Inca Trail is a must-do on any Peru trip. Over 43 kilometres, the multi-day tour leads you through breathtaking mountain panoramas and mystical cloud forests, before finally ending in the lost city of the Incas.

Note: Machu Picchu can of course also be reached without a preceding hike. There are various entrance tickets for Machu Picchu, costing between 30 and 60 US dollars. Please note: the tickets cannot be bought at the entrance, but only in advance at the sales stands of the Ministry of Culture in Cusco or online. There are also only 2,500 entrance tickets available per day.

Lake Titicaca is the largest lake in South America and also the highest navigable lake in the world. Owing to its location at 3,812 metres and the cold air temperatures at this altitude, it isn't really a swimming destination (unless you love icy-cold water!).

The enchantingly beautiful panorama, however - with the deep dark-blue water of the lake, the snow-capped Andes and the peaceful settlements of the Aymara and Quechua on its shores - makes Lake Titicaca one of the absolute highlights of South America.

Tip: Be sure to visit the Uros, an indigenous people who live on floating reed islands on Lake Titicaca. This excursion is already included in all our Peru tours, but can also be arranged relatively easily yourself from the port of Puno.

If the cold temperatures of the Peruvian highlands aren't to your taste, how about a trip to Puerto Maldonado in the far east of the country? Numerous lodges within easy reach of the town, such as the Inotawa Lodge, offer a fascinating adventure package including wildlife watching, hikes and an insight into the life of the local population.

The Peruvian side of the Amazon region is somewhat less well known than its Brazilian counterpart, but has the advantage of being less developed for tourism and therefore allowing a more authentic experience.

The mysterious Nazca Lines are another highlight in Peru that you shouldn't miss. These gigantic drawings and lines in the desert floor have puzzled humankind for centuries. From simple lines to enormous depictions of animals and plants, you'll find it all here.

The best way to view the Nazca Lines is on a sightseeing flight. From the air, the full scale and beauty of these mysterious lines unfolds. The flight is definitely an unforgettable experience.

The Colca Valley is an impressive valley in the Arequipa region, one of the deepest in the world, characterised by green terraced fields, traditional villages and the majestic condors.

A trip to the Cruz del Condor, a viewpoint offering you a breathtaking view of the majestic condors, is an absolute must.

The Huacachina Oasis is a little paradise in the middle of the sand dunes of the Peruvian desert. The green oasis forms a striking contrast to the surrounding desert landscape and is a popular destination for travellers in search of adventure.

The dunes around Huacachina are perfect for sandboarding and buggy tours, where you ride up the dunes in special vehicles and then enjoy the descent on a board. An adrenaline rush is guaranteed here!

Huaraz is a paradise for hikers and mountaineers in Peru. The city lies in the Cordillera Blanca and is surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the country, including Huascarán, which at 6,768 metres is the highest peak in Peru.

The Cordillera Blanca offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking, mountaineering and climbing. The famous Santa Cruz Trek is a popular multi-day hiking trail that leads you through spectacular landscapes and past turquoise-blue glacial lakes.

Arequipa is one of the most beautiful cities in Peru and is often called the "White City". The colonial charm of the old town, built from white volcanic stone, is simply enchanting.

The city is surrounded by impressive volcanoes, including the majestic El Misti. The Cathedral of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery are two of the best-known sights in Arequipa and should not be missed on a visit.

Ica is a desert city near Huacachina and famous for its wine and pisco production. A wine tasting in the nearby vineyards is a treat for any wine lover.

Another attraction in Ica is the so-called "Ballestas Islands", a paradise for wildlife watching. Here you can experience sea lions, Humboldt penguins and a wide variety of seabirds in their natural habitat.

The archaeological site of Chan Chan is one of the most important pre-Columbian cities in South America and was once the capital of the Chimú Empire. The impressive adobe structures and reliefs bear witness to a flourishing advanced civilisation.

Chan Chan has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is an impressive testament to Peru's pre-Columbian history. The complex is well preserved and offers a fascinating insight into the life of the Chimú culture.

Trujillo is a lively city with a rich colonial history and impressive architecture. Trujillo's Plaza de Armas is lined with colourful buildings and forms the heart of the city.

In the surroundings of Trujillo you'll also find impressive archaeological sites such as Huaca de la Luna and Huaca del Sol, which belong to the Moche culture. The nearby fishing village of Huanchaco is also worth a visit.

The capital, Lima, is the economic and cultural centre of Peru. Here the country's tradition meets modernity. The city offers a fascinating mix of colonial architecture, lively markets, modern shopping centres and a flourishing art scene.

Lima's historic old town has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a real treasure for those interested in history. Lima's cuisine is also known worldwide and an absolute highlight for gourmets.

The Chachapoyas region in northern Peru is a true paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. Here you'll find spectacular waterfalls, mysterious ruined cities and impressive gorges.

One of the best-known attractions in the region is the Kuelap fortress, an impressive pre-Columbian ruined city that sits high atop a mountain, surrounded by a massive stone wall.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is an absolute highlight on any trip to Peru. The valley lies between Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, and Machu Picchu, and is characterised by breathtaking nature and impressive ruins.

Here you'll find numerous well-known Inca sites such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo, as well as picturesque villages and craft markets.

Last but not least, of course, comes the ancient city of Cusco itself. The former capital of the Inca Empire is rich in history and culture and offers a fascinating mix of Inca and colonial architecture.

Cusco's Plaza de Armas is the perfect place to watch the bustle of the city and admire the majestic cathedral. A stroll through the narrow lanes of the old town is like a journey back in time.