Adventure
Discover 8 Peruvian Hotspots That You Shouldn't Miss
Alternatives to visit in Peru
by Kimsa Travel
09-08-2024
Cusco, Lima, and Machu Picchu are frequently at the forefront of visitors' minds when they consider the extraordinarily diverse nation of Peru. During the summer months, Machu Picchu—the foremost archaeological site in Peru and South America—can get up to 2,500 people daily. Everyone who visits Peru, especially first-timers, should see Machu Picchu. There are a lot of other activities you may do if you want to know more about the country.
Kimsa desires that your trip to Peru incorporate an array of activities, including but not limited to enjoying the renowned cuisine, exploring indigenous communities, visiting ruins dating back thousands of years, and swimming with penguins. We have compiled a list of some of our favourite lesser-known Peruvian attractions for anyone who are interested in exploring the country more. We can't wait to create a personalised Peru itinerary that will make your time in Peru one you will never forget.
Arequipa
Arequipa, the second-largest city in Peru, is frequently disregarded in favor of excursions to Cuzco or Lima. Providing vistas that are enhanced in beauty by the baroque architecture of Arequipa.
A significant portion of the central region of Arequipa is constructed using a native variety of white volcanic stone. Due to this, the city has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known as "the white city." Among the most photographed sites in Arequipa, the majestic cathedral stands tall over the Plaza de Armas. It is also a great house of worship. With more regional specialties than any other Peruvian city, Arequipa is not just an architectural wonder but also a foodie's heaven. You will find it difficult to comprehend why Arequipa is kept so low-key after spending a few hours here.
Nazca Lines
Situated in close proximity to Nazca along a southwestern coastal, the Nazca Lines continue to be regarded as a formidable enigma within Peru. It is estimated that the enormous geoglyphs at this location were created between 450 and 600 AD.
Seventy plant and animal designs, 800 straight lines, and over 300 geometric figures comprise the Nazca Lines; some of these are as large as the Empire State Building. In addition to being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its function has been the subject of innumerable hypotheses ever since its discovery more than eighty years ago. Owing to their monumental proportions, the Nazca Lines are most effectively observed from above via helicopter, which provides awe-inspiring panoramas of the vicinity and provides a distinct image of the figures.
Manu National Park
Manu National Park is widely regarded as the most biodiverse national park globally. Fortunately, visitors seeking to witness the convergence of the majestic Andes and the tropical Amazonian rainforest can easily reach this location. Travelers may arrive at Manu National Park via ferry from Puerto Maldonado or by automobile from Cusco. An excellent supplement to your Peru itinerary, this excursion can be initiated in the city of Cusco and conclude in Puerto Maldonado. By adopting this approach, one will embark on a journey through an exceptionally preserved cloud forest and ultimately embark on a river cruise amidst the rainforest.
Upon reaching Manu National Park, an inexhaustible array of activities awaits: paddle a kayak through Lake Salvador in search of monkeys, capybara, river turtles, and caiman; or embark on a trek to behold the enigmatic petroglyphs of Pusharo, situated in close proximity to the settlement. For an alternative vantage point of the jungle, ascend through the trees via a canopy walk.
The majority of rainforest activity occurs at great heights; a canopy walk provides visitors with a more profound comprehension of the intricacies of tree life. Manu presents an abundance of adventure opportunities, and the grade I and II rapids in the vicinity of Pilcopata provide an opportunity for a mild adrenaline surge amidst a picturesque jungle backdrop. Experience the jungle to the fullest by glamping in Manu National Park, where you are enveloped solely by the silence and the noises of the night.
Trujillo
A visit to the colonial city of Trujillo is akin to entering a time machine; the opulent thoroughfares lead to an abundance of churches from the colonial era and extraordinary pre-Incan archaeological sites in close proximity. This compact metropolis is a vibrant nexus of contemporary arts and ancient culture. On the Paseo de Aguas, the variegated Tunnel of Wishes is an excellent location for people-watching. Locally brewed maize beer merits an attempt. Pace yourself, nightlife enthusiasts; pubs and clubs begin operating late and continue through the night.
In close proximity to Trujillo, tourists can also explore the enormous capital of the Chim in Chan Chan. Its status as the pre-Columbian Americas' greatest city elevated it to the pinnacle of regional attractions. Additional Chimú sites are scattered throughout the adjacent desert, including the colossal and aptly magnificent Huacas del Sol y de la Luna (Temples of the Sun and Moon), constructed approximately 1500 years ago. Twenty minutes away is the relaxed surfer village of Huanchaco, which is ideal for beachgoers.
Lake Titicaca
Situated on the shared frontier of Peru and Bolivia, the historic Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in South America. This lake situated atop the tropical Andes, is the largest of its kind in South America. For almost 4,000 years, the Uros have inhabited this body of water. This indigenous people inhabit islands constructed from desiccated Totora reeds that have been interwoven to form enormous floating structures. Every island in Uros is meticulously crafted and maintained by hand.
A visit to the Uros Islands provides an engaging opportunity to become acquainted with the Uros people, an indigenous people. Visitors are frequently greeted with enthusiasm by locals, who may even grant them a private boat excursion in the vessels crafted by the families who are so distinctively reed. Those desiring a more profound interaction with the tribe residing at Lake Titicaca should consider participating in a brief homestay. In addition to offering tangible financial assistance to the Uros tribe, these opportunities also furnish you with an environmentally conscious means of exploring the ancient floating community of South America.
Visitors may also explore the pre-Inca Sillustani ruins, which consist of twenty-eight stone chullpas serving as burial structures and overlooking Lake Umayo. Scholars hypothesize that these vessels were frequently laden with exquisite crafts, gemstones, gourmet fare, and other worldly possessions of distinction.
Paracas
Although Paracas is a hub of activity, it also provides an abundance of opportunities for relaxation and repose. Relax by the pool at one of the opulent seaside resorts in the city. Savor a delectable, freshly prepared meal featuring seasonal, locally derived seafood. Indulge in a soothing massage at the facility. Analyze the picturesque coastal ambiance while strolling through the small town of El Chaco.
Colca Canyon
Colca Canyon, which is positioned as the second deepest canyon globally, attains depths of around 3,400 meters. Spanning several decades across the High Andes, this vast expanse is magnificent in appearance and scope.
The Arequipa region in southern Peru is home to Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons—deeper than the Grand Canyon itself.
Ica
Although Peru is widely recognized for its densely forested tropical forests and Andean scenery, an unexpected treasure known as Ica awaits in the southern region. A singular destination, this prehistoric coastal arid region is an absolute must-see for any Peruvian traveler. For people seeking a secluded destination to spend the day, Ica is renowned for its region-grown wine production. During the parents' day off, appreciate specialty Peruvian wines while touring one of the vineyards.
You need not fret, there are numerous activities available for the entire family to enjoy during your stay. The desert is replete with intriguing exhibits that delve into the process of mummification. Furthermore, this museum showcases intriguing elongated cranium originating from the Paracas culture, which have been compared by numerous individuals to extraterrestrial beings.
Young people with an interest in the supernatural, science, and history will enjoy investigating this location even its interactive museum. Artifacts and ancient remains are on exhibit at the Adolfo Bermez Jenkins Regional Museum of Ica. Numerous indigenous cultures, including the Inca, Nazca, and Chincha, can be studied in this location. This is an exceptional opportunity for the family whose most thrilling vacation activity is cultural and historical exploration along Peru deserts.
An essential excursion among the many things to do in Ica is to the hamlet of Huacachina. Located in the vicinity of Laguna Huacachina, a serene sanctuary in the desert, one can find oneself encircled by scenic palm trees and sandy slopes. A family excursion to Luxury Vacations to Peru is incomplete without a visit to an authentic oasis, regardless of the destination chosen.