One of the most popular destinations in South America, Peru is home to the world-famous Inca citadel, Machu Picchu. While some adventurous travellers opt for a four-day hike along the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu is also accessible by train and bus. Exploring the ancient ruins is well worth the trip to Peru, but it’s not the only thing to see and do in the country. The high-altitude city, Cusco, is the gateway to Machu Picchu: visit the town centre, nearby ruins, and treat yourself to an alpaca steak at the trendy Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse restaurant. Food lovers will also want to take time to explore Peru’s largest city, Lima. Three Lima restaurants are on San Pellegrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, including: Central, Maido, and Astrid y Gastón. Also look out for Amaz, serving incredible dishes made with ingredients from the Amazon.
Top Sites To See
Amazonas Region
Nestled between the Andes and the Amazon jungle, the Amazonas region is famous for its cloud forests, the epic 2500 ft Gocta waterfall, wild orchids, Andean bears, and the mountaintop fortress of Kuélap.
Machu Picchu
Declared a natural and cultural UNESCO World Heritage site, Machu Picchu is a 15th century Inca citadel located in the historic Cusco region and the most familiar gateway into the Inca civilization.
The National Reserve of Titicaca (RNT)
RNT is located on Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, explore the local natural wealth and engage with the traditional cultures of local peoples, like the Uru.
Must Do
Lima
With its historic plazas, the Lima Cathedral and other churches, museums, and nightlife, Lima promises to not disappoint. Lima is the best place to start experiencing Peruvian cuisine, with its huge variety of ingredients from the coast, mountain, and Amazon region and fusion of Aboriginal, Spanish, African and Asian cuisines.
Gastronomy
The wealth of its lands, heritage, and cultural influences gives Peru a unique reputation for being a gastronomic utopia. Each city has its own unique dish and no two places are ever the same. Don’t forget to try the legendary Tostaduria Bisetti in Lima and the Sanctuary Lodge Snack Bar at the entrance to Machu Picchu. Gaining a reputation for its exceptional flavor and aroma, Peruvian cacao is native to the Amazon Basin, a fact that has made Peru one of the world’s largest cacao exporter.
The Inca Trail
The Inca trail is one of the most popular in South America and passes through cloud forests, alpine tundra, and Inca ruins. Choose from several trail options, but plan to start the last day of your Inca trek long before sunrise so that you can arrive at Sun Gate to catch the first rays of sun hitting Machu Picchu.
When To Go
May to December is the driest season and best time to visit Peru.
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Machu Picchu is the jewel of the Inca Empire, a spectacular stone city high in Peru’s Andes Mountains.