Nestled on the west coast of South America, Peru is home to some of the worlds most beautiful villages, towns and cities that you will fall in love with. You’ve no doubt heard of awesome Machu Picchu, but there is so much more to Peru than one destination. If you are planning an adventure to Peru, don’t forget to visit some of these amazing places to experience the best that Peru has to offer.
1.) MANCORA
Known as the favourite hangout spot of author Ernest Hemmingway, Mancora hosts a relaxed and laid back atmosphere. Mancora is a great city to enjoy some extreme water sports, yoga on the sea shore (that is held every Saturday) or just do nothing and absorb the Peruvian culture.
2.) PUNO
Puno is known as the cultural hub of Peru. Get to know the people and their way of life by participating in home stays that have become increasingly popular here. My top tip is to take a relaxing boat trip to the floating island known for untouched beauty and hand woven textiles and clothing that the local residents lovingly produce.
3.) TRUJILLO
The largest pre-historic mud brick settlement in the Americas, Trujillo is a town that cannot be missed. This rich history laden city showcases it’s historic sites and attractions that date back as far as 100BC to 650AD. A perfect town if you’re a history buff! 🙂
4.) PISCO
Pisco, is one of the world’s most beautiful and ecologically diverse places, situated in the Ica region of Peru. Pisco’s is relatively close to Paracas National Reservation, a UNESCO world heritage site that is worthy of a visit (or a hike). While in Pisco, ensure you visit Tambo Colarado, an ancient Inca fort that has been preserved over hundreds of years.
5.) HUANCHACO
The beach town of Huanchaco is a surfers paradise. If surfing isn’t your thing, you can learn about the ancient Huanchaco fishing tradition that is still practiced in the town.
6.) CHIVAY
Engulf yourself in the natural beauty of the world’s deepest canyon; Colca Canyon that will leave you speechless. Relax in the natural hot springs or enjoy the Astronomical Observatory and cultural markets that surround this picturesque town.
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7.) NAZCA
This city boasts another of Peru’s UNESCO world heritage site, the Nazca Lines, that you will not want to miss. Another reason to visit Nazca is to learn about Chauchilla, where the ancient art of mummification was practised.
8.) AREQUIPA
Arequipa is the second most populace Peruvian city with breathtaking that treats its visitors to magnificent views of El Misti Volcano. Arequipa boasts unique architecture that secured its UNESCO World Heritage status in 2000. Don’t forget to submerse yourself in the local culture, spend a day visiting the picturesque Santa Theresa Convent and Museum of Colonial art.
9.) IQUITOS
A visit to Iquitos offers the opportunity to visit (part of) the world’s largest tropical forest, the Amazon Jungle. Get the adrenaline going by taking a boat ride to view wildlife such as crocodiles and anacondas or arrange a secure hike through the wild heartland of this amazing region.
10.) MACHU PICCHU
After enjoying the beauty of the Peruvian towns, why not take a visit to Machu Picchu that has become so famous across the world. This Incan citadel is perched high in the Andes Mountains and protected by the Urubamba River valley. Built over 500 years ago, Machu Picchu is a place that everyone should visit once.