“Anything you can do, Peru can dooooo better!”
While that may not be strictly true (or lyrically correct), Peru certainly offers travellers a one-stop-shop for the ultimate adventure. It’s far enough away to feel the full breeze of obscurity, yet popular enough with travellers to be grooved with friendly trails.
Going backpacking or taking a gap year in Peru not only sounds amazing, it is amazing. It’s a country riveted with mystical legends, and rippled with deep, lush rainforests which have the ability to swallow ancient civilisations whole.
Aside from this, the country is hooked onto South America by the Andes mountain range, and pinned to the South Pacific Ocean by endless acres of coastal desert, including the world’s driest place, the Atacama Desert.
We’ve swept over the country to pick out the very best things to do in Peru that you simply shouldn’t miss during your time in the country.
1. Trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Probably Peru’s most famous site is Machu Picchu, the astounding city constructed by the Incas high in the Andes centuries ago.
The journey to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail is just as much a part of the experience as exploring the ancient city, so make sure you leave enough time to fully appreciate the trek. The hike to Machu Picchu typically takes around four days, but it’s worth spending longer on a tour to give you the chance to explore the other fascinating Inca ruins in Cusco and along the trail itself.
Trekking the legendary Inca Trail, and marveling at Machu Picchu really is a bucket list adventure and something you must do once in your life. You can also cheat and catch a train if trekking isn’t for you. To learn more view some interesting facts about the Inca Trail.
2. Get Awestruck in the Amazon Rainforest
How could we leave this one out? Take a foray into the Amazon Rainforest, to an area that holds the world record for the most bird sightings in one area, and help the critters out.
The downside of the Amazon being blessed with such diverse fauna, is the illegal trade that feeds off it, said to be worth upwards of $20m per year.
If you would like to do something rewarding you can find lots of gap year volunteering programs here where you can help conservation and wildlife.
3. See Soaring Condors in the Colca Canyon
Can you say “See soaring condors in the Colca Canyon” ten times without fainting with excitement? Nope, we didn’t think so. WAKE UP! We’ve got one of the natural world’s most awe-inspiring sights, as the largest land-living birds circle before your eyes beside one of the world’s deepest canyons. It makes you feel dizzy just reading about it, right?
4. Fly Above the Nazca Lines
The Nazca Lines are in the Nazca Desert, therefore, their collective name is not considered to be mysterious, but their appearance most certainly is. Appearing like a supersized doodle by accalimed artist, Neil Buchanan, these creations of the ancient civilisations are best observed from the air, where a local guide can attempt to de-doodle their hidden meaning.
5. Relax at Lake Titicaca
Peru has a firm hold on the western shores of Lake Titicaca, preventing Bolivia from scurrying away with the continent’s largest lake. Take your time exploring the magical islands, and meet the enigmatic Indians that freckle the lake shores, and Islas de la Luna and del Sol which bloom from the surface.
6. Explore Cusco
If you plan to be travelling in Peru the chances are you will either stay or pass through the ancient city of Cusco. This city is historic with ancient architecture, vibrant markets and friendly people. It is also the gateway to some of the more popular Peruvian attractions like Machu Picchu.
7. Get a Photo at Rainbow Mountain
Rainbow Mountain is a really unusual and unique destination, it’s a mountain range with spectacular colour. If you are looking for the perfect Instagram snap, this is it! The trip getting here is also magical where you traverse through spectacular scenery.
Plan a Trip to Peru
So there we have it, Peru’s top destinations and amazing activities!
The ancient Mayan ruins of Machu Picchu are the undoubted most famous destination in Peru but hopefully we have highlights some more amazing locations.
Have you ever been so inspired to make you want to gap year to South America and see Peru for yourself? Plan a trip today! Search tours which can take you to see all the main highlights of the country.