First time to Peru | 5 must-visits

Peru is on the list of many people bucketlist.. Now that the long journeys are again in the spotlight, that discovery in Peru is also getting closer. The land of mighty Andean peaks of 6.000 meters or more, but also of tropical rainforest, vast deserts, beaches and perfect surfing locations on the Pacific Ocean. Culture, nature, world heritage, traditions, gastronomy and all those striking colors; the country has such a multitude of highlights that you don't know where to start. Of course everyone has their own personal preference, but there are places and locations that you simply do not want to miss on your first visit to Peru. Five must-visits in a row.

1. Machu Picchu: off to the sacred Inca city

Whoever says Peru says Machu Picchu (location: here). A real must-visit if you visit Peru. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the Seven Wonders of the World for a reason. The first view of Machu Picchu is one to remember. Deep in the Andes Mountains, the archaeological site of this ancient Inca city sits atop a mountaintop. Whether you arrive after the four-day trail or via a short walk from the entrance, everyone is very impressed when you first look out over the complex. To discover as much of the ancient Inca city as possible, a guide is definitely recommended. Even the trip to Machu Picchu is an experience. It is about 3 hours from the provincial capital of Cusco, an important part of which you can only travel by train. Unless you opt for one of the multi-day hikes. Including the Inca Trail or the Salkantay trek. The latter takes you past the breathtaking turquoise-colored glacial lake Humantay Lake at an altitude of 4.200 meters. You can also visit this lake in a day hike. Also put Cusco on your list, a beautiful city brimming with colonial heritage built on foundations laid by the Incas.

2. Huaraz, the hiker's Valhalla

One of the reasons to really visit Peru is the beautiful nature where you can do many hikes. This is also the case in the even less visited city Huaraz. This place is not included in many travel routes, because it is located above Lima. With a short flight or an eight hour bus you can travel to this small city, and I can tell you: it is really worth it!!.

Both short day hikes and multi-day hikes, such as the Huayhuash isn't following anyone. Autodesk_new, it's all possible! You can literally push your limits here, especially with the altimeters you can make here.

3. Arequipa: the 'White City'

Arequipa is also known as the 'White City', thanks to the white volcanic rock used to build much of the historic downtown area. Monastery complexes, churches, cathedrals and other beautiful facades are real eye-catchers in the old center. The city is surrounded by mountains, including several volcanoes, such as Misti. Arequipa was once founded at the foot of this volcano. Incidentally, that is not the only reason why it is called a 'White city'. This is also due to the Spanish immigrants who came to settle hundreds of years ago.

While you're there, take a hike in the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest gorges in the world, where you can also spot the mighty Andean Condor. With a wingspan of more than four meters, it is the largest bird in the world. A hike in the Colca Canyon is almost a must-visit in itself.

Also read: 7x special overnight stays in Peru in Ecolodges + spectacular train journey

4. Paracas National Reserve

Few countries have such diverse landscapes as Peru. Traveling you go from the high Andes mountains to the jungle, along the coast and finally: into the desert. There you will find the Paracas National Park along the coast, which can be visited both from the water and by land. The Paracas National Reserve is home to unique flora and fauna, including the iconic Ballestas Islands. A protected area where you can observe sea lions, large groups of Humboldt penguins and hundreds of different seabirds such as pelicans in their own habitat. And all this at a 3,5 hour drive from the capital Lima and moreover, close to Ica.

5. Huacachina: a special oasis in the desertn

In the middle of sand dunes, just 8 kilometers from the city of Ica, there is a green lagoon surrounded by palm trees - an oasis as it should be. Huacachina. A photogenic image in the middle of the desert. Especially at sunrise or sunset, the high sand dunes in yellow-orange tones complete the picture. Not so much further you will also find the ancient mystical Nazca lines, of which we are still in the dark for what purpose they were made. It is certain that they date from the Nazca culture, 100 to 500 years before our era. To make this must-visit worth it, definitely go sandboarding of the dunes.

Also read: 20 Must Sees in South America | Feed for your Bucket List ✔️

Tour in Peru (backpacking)

Peru; the land of the Incas, mysterious discoveries, colonial cities and the traditionally dressed population. Peru is the country of the impressive Andes mountains, deserts and high-altitude lakes. Are you looking for inspiration or information about Peru or are you already backpacking in the country? Then read the articles below packed with information, travel stories and practical tips…