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Sitting right at the inception of the Amazonian rainforest, Peru is quickly becoming a mainstream travel destination for everyone. Probably cited as one of the coolest countries in the world, the nation offers so much to do for every hodophile that it really is a trip for a lifetime. There are so many things to do in Peru that you will feel short of time on your vacation, but not activities.
The country is home to some of the finest destinations starting from mountain treks, desert dunes to one of the seven wonders of the world, that it might be a little confusing to figure out the best things to do in peru. Tucked thousands of miles away, Peru is one such milestone in your travel itinerary which might leave a visitor overwhelmed at the first instance. The nation is packed with a set of amazing destinations which will be one hell of a rollercoaster ride for everyone who sets foot on the grounds of Peru.
9 Unique Things To Do In Peru
This beautiful country is home to some of the insane yet off-beat travel locations that will definitely leave you gasping for more. Our list comprises some of the top things to do in peru which will help you truly enjoy your vacation.
1. Hiking: The Inca Trail To Machu Picchu
There is literally no list of Peruvian adventures that is complete without visiting the interesting Machu Picchu. The trail begins in Cusco heads upwards crossing forests and unidentified blooms towards the mystic architecture. The last remaining of the Inca empire the place is as mysterious as its name. The spot has given rise to many mysteries and riddles related to the discovery of this civilization. Thus this destination secures the top spot amongst the places to visit in Peru. Also trekking up to the top of the mountain to unearth this rare wonder is also a gem in itself. It is truly one of the Cusco things to do in peru for visitors.
Location: Cusco, Peru
Time taken: 4 days
Best time: May and October are the best months to do the hiking. You would require the permit which sells fast in the peak months.
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2. Detour To Huaraz
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Nestled in between the path of Lima to Cusco is a small town of Huaraz. One has to take a slight detour to reach the place, which is generally overlooked by a lot of tourists. The town forms a prime base for some of the best trekking and hiking experience. But what steals the show is the beautiful Lake Laguna 69. The stunning lake offers an incredible view of the nearby Pastoruri glacier. One of the fun things to do in peru is this adventure that will remain etched in your memory for long.
Location: Huaraz, Peru
How to reach: There are direct buses available from Lima that takes 8 hours to complete the journey. It is 177 miles from Lima.
3. Sandboarding – Huacachina
This place is an actual desert oasis, situated in the core of the Ica desert five hours away from Lima. While the setting makes it a perfect location for some splendid photography, there are a bunch of other things to do at this place. One can go for sandboarding in the middle of the desert or even ride a dune buggy. This small yet fabulous place makes a perfect setting for some adrenalin-filled adventure. By the end of the day, you can make your way towards some wineries and pisco making factories just outside the border of the desert. And yes, do not forget to take a sip of the famous drink of Peru.
Location: Ica, southwestern Peru
How to reach: Take a bus from Lima to Ica. To get to the famous oasis, you will need to take a taxi from the bus station in Ica.
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4. Visit The Floating Islands of Lake Titicaca
This enormous lake is situated towards the south of Peru, near the border of Bolivia. One of the prime aspects of this place is that it offers visitors some breath-taking scenery. The lake is inhabited by rare species and is home to Uru people, who craft boats out of Tortora reeds. While on the lake one can also explore the naturally occurring islands spread across the gigantic waters. It is one of the free things to do in peru and a one-stop destination.
Location: Located on the border of Peru and Bolivia
How to reach: Take a domestic flight from Lima to Juliaca. It is easier to get to the lake from Lake Titicaca.
5. River Rafting – Apurimac River
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If you are still confused and thinking of what to do in Peru, then we have the best activity listed out for you. River rafting in the Apurimac river is the activity that will for sure pump up the adrenaline levels of everyone. The river runs through the Black Canyon and offers a thrill experienced never before. While water breaks over the sides, the canyon also offers Class III and Class IV rapids which make the journey crazy, exhilarating and a whole lot of fun. An adventure not necessarily for the faint-hearted, indulge in the white water rapids for a life-long experience.
Location: Arequipa Province, Peru
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6. Discover The Birthplace Of Inca Civilization
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This beautiful city is sequestered in between mountains and valleys. The capital city of the Inca civilization has a unique amalgamation of the colonial and Inca architecture. While on a visit to this ancient city, one must take photos of the women in their colorful attire, baby llamas, and walk around the narrow streets. It is one of the best things to do in lima peru and a visit to this place is a must for some old-world charm.
Location: Cuzco, Peru
How to reach: There are regular flights between Lima and Cusco. You could also take a bus but it takes 23 hours by road and the mountain ride is tortuous and dangerous.
7. Hiking To The Rainbow Mountain
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This is yet another interesting offering of the nation. The mountain hike takes a total of one-day duration from the city of Cusco. The popular location has been opened for the tourist some years back only, but its increasing fame has made it a top-notch destination for visitors. The mountain is situated at 5200m above the sea-level and the total length of the hike continues for 11 km. Experience an adventure like never before and see the canvas of colors come to life in front of the eyes. One of the spiritual things to do in peru, it is impossible to cross this place of the list.
Location: near Cuzco, Peru
Time taken: 1-9 days. Most visitors spend a day. You would also need a permit to get here as the total number of visitors permitted on a single-day is fixed.
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8. Visit The Mysterious Nazca Lines
Image Credit: monikawl999 for Pixabay
Intriguing yet mysterious at the same time, the Nazca lines are the most intimidating things to see on a Peru trip. A visit to this place raises many questions, the answers to which are still not found. It is hard to imagine that people around the time loop of 500 BC-500 Ad could create these massive drawings. There are over 800 straight lines, 300 geometric shapes, and 70 single lines of animals and trees. A modern-day mystery that is yet to be solved, visit this place and marvel at its uniqueness.
Location: Nazca Desert, Peru
How to reach: The bus ride from Lima to Nazca takes around 7 hours.
9. Luxury Stay At The Sky Lodge
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Experience this unique adventure by staying at the sky lodge. These adventurous suites are located at the sacred valley of Cusco, and allow you to sleep in the wilderness. The transparent capsule hangs from the edge of a mountain, which also allows one to soak in the beauty of the mystic valley. The lodge is located at a height of 400 m and includes a zip trail to reach. The whole package includes breakfast and gourmet dinner along with wine to indulge your senses. The place really is already a winner with the masses and is undoubtedly one of the most popular things to do in Peru.
Location: Pista 224 km. Urubamba-Ollantaytambo, Cusco, Peru
Tariff: Contact property
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The journey across Peru is a diverse one with such jaw-dropping locales. And it is rightfully said that there is so much to see in the nation besides the Machu Picchu. Nearly all the destinations and things to do in Peru actually exceeds the overwhelming expectations. So wake up the wanderlust inside you and plan an international trip to this distinct nation of South-America right away, as sometimes it is best to take a break from your regular day to day life.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What activities can you do in Peru?
Peru is most famous for hiking the Inca Trail in Machu Pichu, climbing the Rainbow Mountain, and visiting the floating islands on Lake Titicaca.
What can you not do in Peru?
Don’t drink the tap water in Peru. If you have height sickness, do not go hiking on the Rainbow Mountain. Hiking the Inca Trail needs stamina. So, think twice about it.
What is Peru famous for?
Peru is most famous for Inca Trail in Machu Pichu, the Rainbow Mountain near Cozca, and the desert oasis.
Can you drink tap water in Peru?
It is best to avoid drinking tap water in Peru.
What should I wear in Peru?
Most of your time will be spent in adventure activities. So, wear comfortable hiking boots, cotton clothes during the day, and a jacket at night.
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Ekta believes that unless you are not riding on a wave you are not living at all. She is a foodie and loves binge-watching Game of Thrones. When she’s not living her dream you can find her in the kitchen cooking.
