Correctly planning your trip to Peru is not an easy task, there are many things to see and time is not always enough, thinking about it, Auri Peru gives you a list of 30 things to do in Peru during 2024. A complete guide on the best things to do in Peru, unique destinations, cultural activities, festivals and more.
This is the time to start informing yourself about everything you can do in Peru, believe me the list is endless but here we will summarize the main things to make the trip not only comfortable but also unforgettable considering all must things to do in Peru.
We recommend you see: 15 Things To Do In Lima Peru, Updated Guide For Your 2024
MUST THINGS TO DO IN PERU:
1.- Relax in the oasis of Huacachina
Visiting the Huacachina Oasis is necessarily one of the 30 things to do in Peru. It is an amazing tourist destination located in the middle of the coastal desert of Peru, about 5 kilometers west of the city of Ica. This small, picturesque lagoon surrounded by high sand dunes is a natural oasis that offers a unique and exciting experience for visitors.
How to get here?
To get to Huacachina, many travelers choose to take a bus from Lima to the city of Ica, a trip that lasts approximately 4 hours, usually the trip can cost $30.00 dollars per person and the best option is Cruz del Sur. From Ica, you can reach the oasis by taxi, in a short journey of about 15 minutes, or even walking if you want to enjoy the surrounding landscape, but this takes a little more time.
Why visit Huacachina in 2024?
Visiting the Huacachina Oasis is an unmissable experience for several reasons. Its natural beauty is simply impressive, surrounded by palm trees, contrasting sharply with the enormous sand dunes that surround it, creating a dreamlike landscape that seems straight out of a fairy tale. In addition to nature, Huacachina is a popular destination for lovers of adventure and extreme sports. The dunes that surround it offer the perfect opportunity to practice sandboarding, an activity similar to snowboarding but on sand, as well as off-road buggy rides that cross the dunes at full speed, providing unforgettable emotions, without a doubt one of the must things to do in Peru.
Does it cost anything to visit it?
Currently, to enter the dunes there is a charge of $2.00 dollars, on the other hand, activities such as sandboarding and buggy rides usually have a cost between $30.00 dollars to $50.00 dollars per person, this varies depending on the duration of the experience.
Huacachina Oasis
2.- Appreciate the pristine waters at the Humantay Lagoon.
Humantay Lagoon is a natural gem hidden in the Andes and is also one of the things to do in Cusco Peru, in the Mollepata district. This dazzling turquoise lagoon is located at an altitude of approximately 4,200 meters above sea level, surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks and dreamlike landscapes.
How to get here?
To get to Humantay Lagoon, many visitors leave from the city of Cusco. From there, you can take transportation to Soraypampa, a trip that lasts approximately 3 hours. This trip can be in public service and has an approximate cost of s/70.00 soles per person or in private service, the price in this case depends on the number of people and the type of transportation (If you want more information about this, contact us now). Once in Soraypampa, you can begin a walk of approximately 2 hours to reach the lagoon, following a well-marked trail that offers spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains protecting the valley.
Why visit Huacachina in 2024?
Humantay Lagoon is a must-see destination for nature lovers and hiking fans due to its incomparable beauty and serene environment. Surrounded by imposing snow-capped peaks and fed by melting mountain ice, the lagoon creates a magical atmosphere that leaves everyone who visits breathless. Many visitors take the opportunity to participate in gratitude ceremonies or meditation in front of this impressive body of water.
Does it cost anything to visit it?
Generally, it is required to pay an entrance fee of s/20.00 soles to access (for foreigner visitors). Additionally, if you want to use the horse service it can cost approximately s/100.00 soles per person.
Humantay Lagoon
3.- Enjoy the food in Peru
Peruvian food is recognized worldwide for its diversity, flavor and exquisiteness, becoming one of the most important culinary destinations in the world. Located in the western region of South America, Peru is a country with a rich gastronomic tradition that combines indigenous, Spanish, African and Asian influences to create a unique fusion of flavors, colors and textures.
For those interested in exploring Peruvian gastronomy, the starting point is Lima, the country’s capital. You can get here from your country on an international flight (Prices vary depending on the date of your trip). Upon arriving in Lima you can easily find everything from street stalls to haute cuisine restaurants, where you can taste traditional dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, causa gallina, ají de gallina and anticuchos, among others.
Why you should try Peruvian food in 2024?
Tasting Peruvian food is a unique and exciting experience for several reasons. First of all, Peruvian food is a window to the country’s rich history and cultural diversity. Each dish tells a unique story about the past and the influences that have shaped Peruvian cuisine over the centuries. In addition, Peruvian food is recognized for its freshness and variety of ingredients. Thanks to the country’s diverse geography, ranging from the Pacific coast to the Amazon rainforest and the high Andes mountains, Peru offers a wide range of fresh and tasty products, including fish and seafood, tropical fruits, Andean tubers, herbs aromatic and much more.
What are the costs of trying Peruvian food?
As for costs, Peruvian food adapts to all budgets. While it is possible to enjoy a delicious meal at a high-end restaurant where a dish can cost hundreds of dollars, per person, there are also cheaper options, such as local markets and street stalls, where you can find delicious dishes at affordable prices, prices can start from s/10.00 (Peruvian soles) each dish.
Peruvian food
4.- Visit the Center of Lima
Visiting the center of Lima is mandatory for all those who have read our information on the 30 things to do in Peru. It is to immerse yourself in a fascinating mix of history, culture and modernity in the capital of Peru. Located on the country’s central coast, Lima is a vibrant city that is home to a rich colonial heritage, impressive historical monuments and a world-class gastronomic scene.
How to get here?
Getting here is very easy for travelers who have accommodation in Miraflores, from here they can take public transportation that can cost up to s/5.00 soles per person, a taxi that can cost up to s/50.00 soles or quote a private transportation. It may take us around 20 to 30 minutes to arrive.
Why visit the Center of Lima in 2024?
Being able to walk its streets allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the country. Lima’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the perfect place to start. Here, visitors can wander the picturesque cobblestone streets and admire the impressive colonial architecture of buildings such as the Lima Cathedral, the Government Palace, and the Plaza Mayor.
Does it cost anything to visit it?
This activity does not have a unique cost, it is one of the 30 things to do in Peru that is so easy and accessible to everyone, the only thing you may incur expenses on is transportation and maybe buying something you want.
Center of Lima
5.- Appreciate the flight of the Condor in Colca Canyon
The flight of the condor in the Colca Canyon is a unique experience that allows visitors to witness up close the majestic flight of one of the largest and most emblematic birds of the Andes. Arequipa, a city located in the south of Peru, is the starting point for this exciting adventure, without a doubt it is on our list of the 30 things to do in Peru.
How to get here?
To get to Chivay and then to Colca, travelers can opt for private tourist buses or public buses, it will depend a lot on how you plan. From Arequipa the trip is an average of 3 hours for each section and upon arrival we will witness a beautiful flyover of the groups of condors that live there.
Why visit the flight of the Condor in Colca Canyon in 2024?
Witnessing the flight of the condor in the Colca Canyon is an exciting experience since the Andean condor is a unique species, with a size that can exceed 3 meters, and seeing it fly in its natural habitat is truly impressive and moving.
Does it cost anything to visit it?
Currently, to be able to do this experience you need to pay an entrance fee or tourist ticket that costs s/70.00 soles per person (Per foreigner visitors). It is always advisable to visit it on a tourist tour, since it may include transportation from Arequipa, as well as specialized guides that provide information about the flora, fauna, and culture of the region.
Colca Canyon Condor
6.- Hike through the snow-capped Andes of Huayhuash
A visit to the Andes of Huayhuash is one of the 30 things to do in Peru that you should consider if you are one of the travelers who love mountain hiking and nature in the heart of the Peruvian Andes. Located in the Áncash region, north of Lima, this spectacular mountain massif offers some of the most impressive and challenging views in the entire country.
How to get here?
Getting to the Andes of Huayhuash can be an adventure in itself. From Lima, the Peruvian capital, travelers can take a tourist bus that has a price of s/60.00 soles per person considering the Cruz del Sur company or a flight to the city of Huaraz with a price of $65.00 dollars per person, it is always the best option is to consider the flight with the LATAM company. Huaraz offers a variety of tourist services, including half-day excursions and more complete packages.
Why visit the Andes of Huayhuash in 2024?
Visiting the Andes of Huayhuash is an important experience for lovers of nature and trekking. This impressive mountain range is home to some of the highest mountains in the Peruvian Andes, including the majestic Nevado Huascarán, the highest mountain in Peru. Travelers can challenge themselves and explore trekking routes that wind through glacial valleys, crystal-clear lagoons and spectacular mountain passes, all while enjoying unparalleled panoramic views.
Does it cost anything to visit it?
It does not have an entry cost but it does require an investment in good equipment, since in order to carry out mountain walking activities it is important to take into account previously coordinating transportation, accommodation, guides and food. However, costs may vary depending on the length of the trip.
Huayhuash
7.- Enjoy the night in Cusco
Visiting Cusco at night is a magical experience that allows travelers to discover the rich history and charming atmosphere of this Peruvian city, former capital of the Inca Empire. Located in the southeast of Peru, in the homonymous region of Cusco, this city is located at an altitude of approximately 3,400 meters above sea level and is accessible from various parts of the country.
How to get here?
The best way to get to the city is with a flight from one of the cities in the country, the price of the flight is from $120.00 dollars per person (depending on the season). The city has an international airport, the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, which receives direct flights from Lima and other important cities in Peru, as well as international flights from various countries. In addition, Cusco is connected by road to other Peruvian cities, such as Lima and Arequipa, through a network of well-maintained roads that can also be accessed by bus. The trip can take between 6, 10 or even 24 hours depending of origin and prices are from s/150.00 soles per person.
What things can I do in Cusco at night in 2024?
Exploring Cusco at night is important because it allows visitors to discover a new facet of the city and immerse themselves in its charming nighttime atmosphere. The cobblestone streets illuminated by old lanterns, the illuminated colonial buildings and the night markets full of life create a unique atmosphere that invites you to walk and discover the most picturesque corners of the city. It is one of the 30 things to do in Peru that you do not want to miss. .
The night activities that you can find in the city range from visiting bars, going to theme parties, restaurants with live music and dance, and even currently there is the option of a tourist bus that takes a tour of 4 or 5 clubs for the most fun. Without a doubt we know that you will find the perfect option for you among all the things to do in Cusco Peru for this 2024.
Night in Cusco
8.- Meet the mysterious of Karajia Sarcophagi
Knowing the Karajia sarcophagi is a unique experience that transports travelers to ancient times, offering a fascinating vision of the pre-Inca Chachapoyas culture. Located atop a cliff in the Utcubamba River valley, in the Amazonas region of northern Peru, these sarcophagi are impressive and enigmatic archaeological monuments.
How to get here?
Reaching the Karajia Sarcophagi can be an exciting adventure. From the city of Chachapoyas, the capital of the region, you can access the sarcophagi by private car or organized tour. The journey includes a trip by tourist transport through picturesque mountain landscapes that lasts approximately 1 hour and a short 30-minute guided trek that leads to the sarcophagi, located at the top of a rocky cliff.
Why visit the Karajia Sarcophagi in 2024?
It is important to visit the Karajia sarcophagi because they offer a fascinating insight into an ancient and little-known culture. Sarcophagi, dating from the pre-Inca period between 1100 and 1300 AC, are funerary structures carved in stone that represent stylized and mysterious human figures. These impressive statues, measuring up to 2.5 meters tall, are one-of-a-kind and offer clues to the funerary practices and worldview of the Chachapoyas culture.
Does it cost anything to visit it?
As for costs, visiting the Karajia sarcophagi generally involves paying an entrance fee of s/129.00 soles per person, remember that you may have some cravings so try to bring a little extra money.
Karajia Sarcophagi
9.- Fly over the Nazca lines
Flying over the Nazca Lines is one of the best things to do in Peru. These lines are one of the most intriguing and fascinating enigmas of the ancient world, located in the coastal desert of southern Peru, in the Ica region. These mysterious geoglyphs, dating back to between 500 B.C. and 500 AD, consist of a series of geometric figures, animals and human symbols, created by removing surface rocks to reveal the lighter soil beneath.
How to get here?
Getting to the Nazca Lines can be done from Lima, the Peruvian capital, through a bus trip, it costs approximately s/80.00 soles per person and can take up to 7 hours of travel. Remember that a good option for bus trips from Lima is Cruz del Sur.
Why visit the Nazca Lines in 2024?
The Nazca Lines represent an impressive testimony to the ingenuity and skill of the ancient pre-Inca civilizations that inhabited the region. These enormous figures, which are only visible from the air, have baffled archaeologists and scientists for decades, sparking theories and speculation about their purpose and meaning, even today it is a complete mystery. These figures include animal shapes such as birds, monkeys, spiders and reptiles, as well as geometric shapes such as straight lines and spirals.
Does it cost anything to visit it?
As for costs, visiting the Nazca Lines generally involves paying a fee for the small plane overflight of $90.00 dollars per person that allows you to appreciate the figures from the air (for flights departing from Nazca aerodrome).
Nazca lines
10.- Appreciate the Colca Canyon
The Colca Canyon is an impressive tourist destination located in the Arequipa region, southern Peru. This canyon, considered one of the deepest in the world, is a natural wonder that offers spectacular landscapes, picturesque towns and rich biodiversity.
How to get here?
To get here you must first get to the town of Chivay, from Arequipa, visitors can take a bus or hire a tour to take them, a trip that usually lasts around 3 to 4 hours. Then we continue for another 30 minutes to the Condor viewpoint, where you can see the canyon in all its splendor.
Why visit the Colca Canyon in 2024?
Visiting the Colca Canyon is one of the 30 things to do in Peru that offers us a unique experience in contact with nature and local culture. In addition to its impressive scenic beauty, the canyon is home to a great diversity of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the Andean condor, which can be seen in flight during the mornings.
Does it cost anything to visit it?
Visiting the Colca Canyon generally involves paying an entrance fee to the protected area of s/70.00 soles per person. This fee helps finance ecosystem conservation and sustainable development projects in the region.
Colca Canyon
11.- Adventure in rafting in the Apurimac River
The Apurímac River rafting adventure is part of the 30 things to do in Peru and is an exciting experience that takes adventurers through whitewater and spectacular landscapes on one of the most impressive rivers in Peru. The Apurímac River, whose name in Quechua means “speaking river”, flows along the southern Andean region of the country, in the province of Cotabambas, Apurímac region.
How to get here?
Getting to the Apurímac River generally involves leaving from the city of Cusco on a private car trip or a public bus that lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on the access point to the river. Remember that it is only possible to carry out this activity with a travel agency that provides you with seasonal advice and recommendations..
Why carry out rafting activity in 2024?
Rafting here is to experience the excitement of whitewater and enjoy the natural beauty of the Andean landscapes. One of the things to do in Cusco Peru that is intended for intrepid and more adventurous travelers. The Apurimac River offers a variety of difficulty levels for rafting, from gentle stretches suitable for beginners to more challenging sections that are perfect for those with experience in this adventure sport.
Does it cost anything to visit it?
Participating in this activity always has a price since it can only be done with a formal travel agency. The price is $85.00 dollars per person and includes the guided tour and the necessary safety equipment, such as inflatable rafts, helmets, life jackets and paddles.
Rafting in the Apurimac River
12.- Enjoy the festival of the Sun – INTI RAYMI
Participating in the Festival of the Sun is one of the best things to do in Peru, known in Quechua as Inti Raymi, it is an ancient celebration that takes place in the city of Cusco, in the heart of the Peruvian Andes. This holiday, which has its roots in the time of the Inca Empire, is a ceremony dedicated to the Sun god, Inti, and takes place each year around the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere, usually on June 24.
How to get here?
To get to Cusco and witness the Festival of the Sun, travelers can choose to fly directly to the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, located in the city of Cusco, or travel by bus from other major cities in Peru. Once in Cusco, it is easy to get around the city on foot or by public transportation to get to the venue.
Book your flights in advance, because due to the high demand during these dates, domestic flights can increase their prices.
Why participate in Inti Raymi in 2024?
The Festival of the Sun is important to visit because it offers travelers a unique opportunity to witness and participate in one of the most important and traditional ceremonies of the Inca culture. During Inti Raymi, participants dress in colorful costumes and perform sacred rituals in honor of the Sun god, including dances, music and offerings in different places such as the Qoricancha, the Main Plaza and in Saqsayhuaman.
Does it cost anything to enjoy this experience?
Witnessing the Festival of the Sun involves paying an entrance fee that can be s/440.00 or s/660.00 soles, per person. It will depend a lot on the platform you choose.
Inti Raymi
13.- Discover the Inca citadel of Choquequirao
Choquequirao, known as “the sister” of Machu Picchu, is an ancient Inca citadel located deep in the mountains of the Cusco region of southern Peru. Located in the Vilcabamba Mountain Range, Choquequirao is in a remote and rugged location, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and lush vegetation.
How to get here?
Getting to Choquequirao is an adventure in itself. The citadel is only accessible through a multi-day walk from the town of Cachora or Huanipaca, both located in the province of Anta, near the city of Cusco. The hike to Choquequirao usually takes at least two days each way, traversing steep paths and narrow paths that wind through the region’s canyons.
Why visit Choquequirao in 2024?
The Choquequirao experience is one of the best things to do in Peru because it offers travelers the opportunity to experience the majesty and mystery of a relatively unvisited and less developed Inca city than Machu Picchu. Stretching across several levels of agricultural terraces and ceremonial plazas, the citadel offers a fascinating glimpse into Inca architecture and engineering, as well as daily life in ancient times.
Does it cost anything to visit it?
Visiting Choquequirao currently involves paying an entrance fee to the archaeological site of s/60.00 soles per person (foreigner visitor).
Choquequirao
14.- Visit the ecosystem of the Ballestas islands
The Ballestas Islands are a group of islands located on the Pacific coast, in front of the city of Paracas, in the Ica region, in southern Peru. These islands are known to be a natural refuge for a wide variety of seabirds, as well as sea lions and Humboldt penguins.
How to get here?
To get to the Ballestas Islands, visitors usually leave from the Paracas pier on tourist boats. Paracas is accessible by car from nearby cities such as Lima, or by bus from different parts of the country.
Why visit Ballestas Island in 2024?
Tours to the Ballestas Islands generally include a boat tour of the islands, which usually lasts about two hours and offers the opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. It is important to visit the Ballestas Islands because they offer a unique experience for lovers of nature and marine life.
Does it cost anything to visit it?
Enjoying a visit to the Ballestas Islands generally involves paying a boat tour fee that can cost from $25.00 per person (including the entrance ticket). However, given the abundance of marine life and natural beauty of the place, many visitors consider the cost of the tour to be a worthwhile investment.
Ballestas islands
15.- Feel the comfort of the train to Puno
The Titicaca Train is one of the most picturesque and exciting ways to travel between the cities of Cusco and Puno in southern Peru, offering travelers a unique experience through the stunning landscapes of the Andes and the Peruvian highlands.
How can I get my train ticket?
Accessing the train is quite simple, you can do it directly through the Peru Rail website, the process takes 10 minutes. Another option is that you can coordinate the travel date with your travel agency (Remember that this train only leaves 3 days a week) then you must prepare your luggage and that’s it, all you have to do is wait for the travel date. Now in the city, if your hotel is near the main square, you must get to the train station and for this you can opt for a taxi that costs s/8.00 soles and takes less than 15 minutes.
The Titicaca Train because it offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy some of the most impressive landscapes in Peru while traveling between two important tourist destinations. During the train ride, passengers can marvel at panoramic views of the Andes Mountains, fertile valleys, and picturesque towns that dot the landscape.
What is the price of this experience?
The price of this particular train is $270.00 dollars per person and it is a unique experience. You can also upgrade the service and change to Andean Explorer which is a higher class version.
Train to Puno
16.- Delight 01 night in the Sacred Valley
Enjoying a night in the Sacred Valley is a magical experience that allows travelers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture of this emblematic region of Peru. Located in the province of Urubamba, in the region of Cusco, the Sacred Valley is a fertile valley that extends along the Urubamba River, between the towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
How to get here?
To reach the Sacred Valley from the city of Cusco, travelers can take a bus or taxi that runs along the highway that connects Cusco with Urubamba, one of the main towns in the valley.
Is it worth staying here?
Being able to enjoy a night in the Sacred Valley gives us an advantage, which is being able to acclimatize in a better way since it is located at a lower altitude than Cusco, so if we are beginner travelers it will be the best choice. Another advantage that we can enjoy is the climate since being a valley it has a very pleasant temperature even at night.
How much does it cost to stay in a hotel?
There are endless varieties and ranges in terms of hotel prices, with prices starting at $60.00 and other more luxurious ones ranging up to $400.00 per night.
Sacred Valley
17.- Walk through the huascaran national park
The Huascarán National Park is a natural treasure located in the Andes mountain range, in the department of Áncash, in north-central Peru. This park, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985, is home to a great diversity of ecosystems, imposing mountains, majestic glaciers and unique biodiversity.
How to get here?
To get to Huascarán National Park from Lima, the Peruvian capital, travelers usually take a flight to the city of Huaraz that takes around 1 hour and has a price from $75.00 dollars per person. From Huaraz, the park can be accessed by bus, taxi or organized tour. Huaraz also has a wide variety of accommodation options, restaurants and tourist services for visitors.
Is Huascaran Park worth visiting in 2024?
Huascarán National Park offers you a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes. The park is home to an impressive variety of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the spectacled bear, vicuña, and Andean condor. Additionally, Huascarán National Park is home to some of the highest mountains in Peru, including Mount Huascarán, the highest peak in the country with an altitude of 6,768 meters above sea level. For lovers of trekking and mountaineering, the park offers a wide range of routes and trails that allow you to explore its impressive mountain landscape and glaciers.
How much does it cost to enter here?
The price of being able to access this place varies depending on your time on this day, without entering only for one day it is s/30.00 soles per person but if you have a longer experience of two to three days it costs s/60.00 soles per person naturally this can be properly coordinated with a travel agency.
Huascaran national park
18.- Learn about the history of Chan Chan
Chan Chan is one of the most important archaeological jewels of ancient Peru and a must-see destination for lovers of history and culture. Located in the coastal region of La Libertad, in the north of the country, Chan Chan was the capital of the Chimú Kingdom, a pre-Inca civilization that flourished between the 9th and 15th centuries AD.
How to get to here?
To get to Chan Chan, visitors usually leave from the city of Trujillo, Chan Chan can be accessed by bus, taxi or organized tour, with a trip that usually lasts about 30 minutes, you can regularly use the Cruz del Sur company for this trip since it is more reliable.
Is Chan Chan worth visiting in 2024?
Chan Chan offers you a unique opportunity to explore the archaeological center of one of the largest and most advanced cities in pre-Columbian America. Spread over a vast area of approximately 20 square kilometers, Chan Chan Citadel is made up of nine walled citadels, each with its own design and function. It is also famous for its intricate wall decorations and clay reliefs, which depict scenes of daily life, animals, plants and geometric figures.
How much does it cost to enter here?
Visiting Chan Chan generally involves paying an entrance fee of s/10.00 soles per person, which helps finance the conservation and maintenance of the archaeological site.
Chan Chan
19.- Visit Kuelap
The Kuelap Fortress is one of the most impressive and least known archaeological sites in Peru, located high in the mountains of the Amazon region in the north of the country. This ancient citadel, built by the Chachapoyas culture between the 6th and 16th centuries AD, stands majestically on a steep cliff more than 3,000 meters above sea level.
How to get here?
To get to Kuelap, visitors usually depart from Chachapoyas, Kuelap can be accessed by bus or private vehicle, a trip that can take approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions. It is always better if you coordinate with a travel agency.
Is Kuelap worth visiting in 2024?
The Kuelap fortress is characterized by its enormous stone walls, which stretch for approximately 600 meters and reach a height of up to 20 meters in places. Inside, there are hundreds of circular structures known as “chullpas”, as well as plazas, homes and ceremonial buildings. It is also famous for its intricate sculptures and decorative reliefs, depicting human figures, animals and geometric motifs.
How much does it cost to enter here?
Being able to access the Kuelap fortress requires an income that has a general cost of s/20.00 soles per person, this also allows it to be properly maintained and restored.
Kuelap
20.- Visit the Manu Park
Manu National Park, located in the Amazon region of southeastern Peru, is one of the most biodiverse and pristine destinations in the world. This vast wildlife sanctuary encompasses more than 1.5 million hectares of rainforest, stretching from the lowlands of the Amazon basin to the Andes mountains.
How to get here?
To get to the Manu National Park, travelers generally depart from the city of Cusco. The bus trip lasts approximately 8 hours and is a complete experience since as we advance the microclimates also change, the temperature increases and the excitement of being close to the Peruvian jungle is growing.
Is Manu worth visiting in 2024?
The park is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna, including thousands of species of plants, mammals, birds, reptiles and insects, many of which are endemic to the region. In addition to its rich biodiversity, Manu National Park is also an important center for scientific research and conservation, hosting several biological stations and ongoing research projects. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in guided activities, such as jungle walks, river boat rides and bird watching, led by expert local guides who share their knowledge of the region’s flora and fauna.
How much does it cost to enter here?
In order to enter the Manu National Park, a payment of s/30.00 soles per person must be made, this helps finance the conservation and maintenance of the park.
Manu Park
21.- Complete the Inca Trail challenge
The Inca Trail is one of the most famous and spectacular trekking routes in the world, winding through the stunning landscapes of the Peruvian Andes and connecting the city of Cusco with the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu. This ancient route, built by the Incas more than 500 years ago, is one of the most authentic ways to experience the culture and history of the region.
How to get here?
To reach the Inca Trail, travelers generally depart from the city of Cusco. First on a transport to the city of Ollantaytambo where all visitors can regularly buy a snack, then the road continues until kilometer 82 or pinch Cucho from where the experience begins, walking the entire stretch that can last up to three hours.
Why visit the Inca Trail in 2024?
The Inca Trail is a unique experience because it offers an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas and explore some of the most impressive and spectacular landscapes in Peru. During the tour, travelers pass through a variety of ecosystems, from the subtropical jungle to the Andes mountains, passing through valleys, rivers and ancient Inca archaeological sites until finally reaching the Inca citadel. It is also important to mention that it is dotted with a number of archaeological sites, including Wiñay Wayna, Phuyupatamarca and Intipata, which offer a fascinating insight into Inca culture and civilization.
How much does it cost to enter here?
The price of the Inca trail depends solely on the company with which you organize it since the only way to be able to do the Inca trail is with a company that has the necessary permit. An average price of the experience can be between $700.00 to $950.00 per person including all the details necessary for the experience such as camping equipment or support equipment, food, transportation, income and more.
Inca Trail
22.- Reach the highest point in the Rainbow Mountain
The visit to the Rainbow Mountain is one of the 30 things you should visit in Peru but it is also one of the challenges you must complete. Also known as Vinicunca or Rainbow Mountain, it is a spectacular natural site located in the southern region of Peru, near the city of Cusco. This mountain owes its name to the distinctive and vibrant colors that adorn its slopes, creating a unique and fascinating landscape.
How to get here?
To get to the Mountain of Colors, travelers generally depart from the city of Cusco. From there, you can take a bus or hire a tour that takes you to the town of Pitumarca or Cusipata, which are the starting points for the walk to Vinicunca. The walk to the Montaña de Colores usually lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, passing through spectacular landscapes and reaching altitudes of up to 5,200 meters above sea level.
Why visit the Rainbow Mountain in 2024?
The colorful landscape of Rainbow Mountain, formed by mineral sediments that have been deposited over millions of years, creates a surreal view that seems straight out of a dream. It also offers you the opportunity to interact with local communities living in the region, discovering their culture, customs and traditions. Many of these communities offer experiential activity services so you can enjoy the culture.
How much does it cost to enter here?
As it is a place belonging to a community and not the State, the prices are regulated by it. Currently, the entrance fee is s/25.00 soles per person, on the other hand, if you want to use the horse service, it is an additional price of s/100.00. soles per person.
Limit weight: 70 kg – 75 kg is the maximum weight that the horse can charge. If this is the case, the other option can be to get to the rainbow mountain though an ATV ride.
Rainbow Mountain
23.- Visit the Catacombs of San Francisco Convent
The Catacombs of the Convent of San Francisco are a fascinating historical site located in the historic center of Lima, the capital of Peru. This catacomb complex, dating back to the 16th century, is located beneath the Church and Convent of San Francisco, one of the most emblematic monuments of the city.
How to get here?
To get to the Catacombs of the Convent of San Francisco, visitors can take a taxi if the hotel is in Miraflores, this can cost from s/30.00 soles depending on the place of origin. Or walk if the hotel is nearby. The exact address is Jr. Ancash 515, just a few blocks from the Plaza Mayor of Lima and the Government Palace. Furthermore, the convent’s central location makes it easily accessible from different parts of the city.
Why visit the Catacombs of San Francisco in 2024?
During the visit, visitors have the opportunity to explore the underground corridors that house the skeletal remains of thousands of Lima residents, as well as admire the impressive crypts and galleries decorated with human bones. Inside it also houses an impressive collection of colonial religious art, which includes paintings, sculptures and liturgical objects of great historical and artistic value. Visitors can also tour the old friars’ cells, the library and the convent’s cloister, which offer a unique insight into religious life in the colonial period.
How much does it cost to enter here?
The price for visitors is s/10.00 soles, this allows them to enter to visit both the catacombs and also the convent of San Francisco itself.
San Francisco Convent
24.- Walk through the San Pedro market
San Pedro market is a commercial center of cultural activity located in the heart of the city of Cusco, in Peru. This market, founded in 1925, is one of the oldest and most traditional in the city and offers visitors an authentic experience of daily life in the Peruvian Andes.
How to get here?
To get to San Pedro market, visitors can walk from different points in the historic center of Cusco, as it is located just a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas, the main square of the city. Additionally, due to its central location, the market is easily accessible on foot from most hotels and hostels in the city.
Why visit the San Pedro market in 2024?
This place offers you a wide variety of local products, crafts and fresh foods, providing visitors with an authentic insight into the culture and gastronomy of the region. In the market, you can find all kinds of products, from fresh fruits and organic vegetables to meat, fish, medicinal herbs, crafts, textiles and souvenirs.
It is also an ideal place to taste delicious Peruvian cuisine in its numerous food stalls and restaurants. Here, visitors can try a variety of typical dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, stuffed rocoto and pork chicharrón, among others, prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Is it expensive to visit?
The prices are accessible to everyone, there is no range since it all depends on what you are looking for.
San Pedro market
25.- Ascend to Huayna Picchu
Climbing the Huayna Picchu mountain is one of the 30 things to do in Peru that you will definitely love. Its name in Spanish means “Young Mountain.” This is one of the most popular and challenging destinations for Machu Picchu visitors due to its impressive panoramic view of the citadel and surrounding landscapes.
How to get the Huayna Picchu ticket?
To reach Huayna Picchu, visitors must first reach Machu Picchu, which is located in the mountainous region of Cusco. The most common way to get to Machu Picchu is to take a train from the city of Cusco to Aguas Calientes station, followed by a bus ride or hike to the entrance of Machu Picchu. From there, you can access Huayna Picchu through a steep and rocky path that starts from the citadel.
Why visit Huayna Picchu Mountain in 2024?
The climb to the summit of Huayna Picchu is challenging but rewarding, offering stunning views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscape of the Andes Mountains. During the ascent you will have the opportunity to explore ancient Inca trails, rock steps and narrow passages that lead to the top of the mountain. Once at the top, visitors are rewarded with a panoramic view of Machu Picchu from above, as well as spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Huayna Picchu
Is it expensive to visit?
To be able to enter the Huayna Picchu mountain, you must previously reserve an entrance fee of s/200.00 soles for foreign visitors.
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26.- Visit the Cave of the Owls
The Cave of the Owls is a fascinating natural destination located in the Junín region, in central Peru. This impressive cave system is characterized by its spectacular rock formations and for being the habitat of a large number of owls, which gives it its name.
How to get here?
To reach the Cave of the Owls, visitors generally depart from the city of Tarma, the capital of the Tarma province in the Junín region. From Tarma, you can access the cave by car or by public transport, taking the road that leads to the town of Palcamayo. The cave is located about 30 minutes by car from Tarma, in the community of San Pedro.
Why visit the Cave of the Owls in 2024?
It is the ideal experience for lovers of nature and adventure. In addition to admiring the cave’s impressive rock formations, visitors have the opportunity to observe the owls that inhabit the place up close, creating a unique and memorable experience. It also has significant cultural and archaeological value because evidence of human occupation has been found in the cave dating back thousands of years, making it an important site for archaeological research.
How much does it cost to enter here?
In 2024, visiting the Cueva de las Lechuzas has an entry cost of s/10.00 soles per person, this in particular help finance the conservation and maintenance of the site.
27.- Celebrate in the festival of Paucartambo
The Paucartambo Festival is a traditional and culturally significant celebration that takes place in the picturesque town of Paucartambo, located in the Cusco region of southern Peru. Held every year in July, this festival attracts visitors from across the country and abroad due to its colorful display of dance, music and religious rituals.
How to get here?
To reach Paucartambo, travelers generally depart from the city of Cusco, the regional capital and a major tourist center in Peru. From Cusco, you can take a bus or hire a tour that takes you to Paucartambo, a trip that usually lasts approximately 4 hours by road. In addition, during the journey, travelers can enjoy beautiful mountain landscapes and picturesque towns.
Why participate in the Paucartambo festival this 2024?
This holiday offers you a unique opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of the Peruvian people. During the festival, the streets of Paucartambo are filled with colorful folk dances, live music, and processional parades that honor the Virgen del Carmen, the town’s patron saint. This celebration, which combines elements of the Catholic religion with indigenous beliefs, is considered one of the most important manifestations of popular religiosity in Peru.
Is it expensive to visit?
Being able to be part of this festival does not require paying an entrance fee, however, it is important to keep in mind that visitors must have a budget to buy food, crafts or souvenirs during the festival, in addition to their accommodation since it can last several days.
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Festival of Paucartambo
28.- Discover Waqrapukara Mountain
Taking the hike to Waqrapukara is one of the 30 things to do in Peru that is intended for hiking lovers. It is an impressive archaeological site located in the mountains of the Cusco region, in Peru. This relatively new destination in tourism terms has quickly become a point of interest for visitors seeking to explore the cultural and natural wealth of the region.
How to get here?
To get to Waqrapukara, travelers generally depart from the city of Cusco. From there, you can take a bus or hire a tour that takes you to the town of Santa Lucia, which is the starting point for the walk to Waqrapukara. The walk to the archaeological site usually lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on the pace and physical condition of the visitors.
Why visit the Cave of the Owls in 2024?
The Waqrapukara archaeological center offers a unique opportunity to explore a little-known and less crowded archaeological site than other tourist attractions in the region. Waqrapukara is an ancient Inca construction made up of terraces, plazas and ceremonial structures built on a rocky plateau with impressive cliffs.
This destination also offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the Apurímac River valley, making it a popular destination for lovers of trekking and photography.
What is the cost of visiting it?
Visiting this destination does not have an entry cost but it does have a planning cost, so you must make sure that the coordination you make with a travel agency includes everything necessary such as transportation, guide, food and more.
29.- Live the tradition of Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is one of the most impressive and emblematic natural destinations in South America, so visiting it is one of the 30 things to do in Peru. Located on the border between Peru and Bolivia. This lake, considered the highest navigable lake in the world, at an altitude of approximately 3,812 meters above sea level, is known for its scenic beauty, rich history and cultural importance to the communities living on its shores.
How to get here?
To reach Lake Titicaca from Peru, travelers generally depart from the city of Puno, located on the shores of the lake on the Peruvian side. Visitors can access the lake through boats that offer tours and excursions around the lake and its islands.
Is Lake Titicaca worth visiting in 2024?
During your visit to Lake Titicaca you will have the unique opportunity to explore its impressive natural beauty and rich cultural history. The lake has a series of floating islands inhabited by indigenous communities, such as the Uros, who build and maintain their islands using reeds, an aquatic plant native to the region. Visitors can take boat tours of these islands and learn about the traditions and customs of their inhabitants. It also contains other natural islands such as Taquile Island and Amantani Island, which offer the opportunity to explore ancient archaeological sites, enjoy panoramic views of the lake and participate in cultural and folkloric activities organized by local communities.
Is there a price to visit it?
In order to visit Lake Titicaca we do not need to make any payment but we do need to make any payment to be able to enter the islands. In the case of the Uros they ask for a voluntary contribution but for Taquile it is s/15.00 soles per person, this as a way of helping the community.
Lake Titicaca
30.- Complete the Salkantay paths
The Salkantay trek is an unforgettable adventure that takes travelers through some of the most spectacular and remote landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. Salkantay Mountain, which means “Indomitable Mountain” in Quechua, is one of the highest in the region and offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys and varied vegetation.
How to get here?
The trek to Salkantay usually begins in the town of Mollepata, located about 3 hours by car from the city of Cusco in southern Peru. From Mollepata, travelers begin the trek to Salkantay, passing through beautiful mountain landscapes, remote villages, and ancient Inca archaeological sites.
Is it worth doing the Salkantay trek in 2024?
This Salkantay hike is one of the 30 things to do in Peru, because it offers a unique opportunity to experience the wild nature and Andean culture of Peru. During the hike, travelers have the opportunity to admire the stunning beauty of the Andean landscapes, as well as interact with the local communities that live in the region. It is also a good time to challenge yourself and reach a new high point as you along the way you will reach the famous Salkantay Pass, which is located at an altitude of more than 4,600 meters above sea level. All with the intention of having our reward of visiting Machu Picchu at the end of the tour.
What is the price of living this experience?
Like the Inca Trail, doing the Salkantay trek requires the help of a specialized agency since, being a fairly extensive stretch, you will require well-implemented equipment such as food, camping equipment, support equipment, income, transfers and more. The prices for this experience start at $350.00 dollars for group services.
Salkantay Trek
You have a list of the 30 things to do in Peru, also recommendations of the best things to do in Peru. Auri Peru has a personalized proposal for you, contact us now, and we will be more than happy to start planning an unforgettable adventure for you!
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