Anyone planning a trip to Peru sets out with one mission: to witness one of the seven wonders of the world, which is Machu Picchu. Even though we totally support your decision to have the magnificent Inca citadel on your top priority, we want to encourage you to see the rest of Peru as well. However, it is quite customary for tourists to not know what to do in the country as Machu Picchu diverts all the attention away. So, keeping that in mind, we have created this list to better inform you about the rest of the amazing and breathtaking places that are out there in Peru that would make a great hotspot for tourists. So, without further ado, let’s get started girls!
- Explore the rainbow mountains
Rainbow mountains are an incredible masterpiece of nature. They have very quickly gained a lot of good name and attracted a whole lot of tourists. Apart from this site being absolutely magnificent, it is just outside of Cusco, which is why tourists can easily make their way there. So, when you are in Cusco, consider taking a day trip to the mountains or if you have a few extra days to spare the make sure to have a multi-day trekking experience.
- Visit the Sacred Inca valleys
You don’t have to be a history buff to marvel at the beauty of the Sacred Valley. Speaking in geographical terms, the Sacred Valley meets the Urubamba River from Pisac. Apart from the ruins and historical sites, the valley is famous for its stunning landscapes and flourishing agriculture.
It is quite convenient to arrange trips to the Sacred Valley from Cusco and if you are interested in a guided tour then those are very commonly available too.
- Surf at the Mancora Beach
Peru is a melting pot of ancient culture. If you are taking a trip to the country, it is quite likely that most of your time will be spent exploring archeological sites, ancient culture and ruins. Once you are done doing the touristy things, you are going to want to spend some time relaxing before you head back home. So, for that, we suggest that you had to the Mancora Beach in the Pacific and unwind. If you have a little more energy left though, you should consider hitting the waves with your surfboard.
- Go to Cusco via the Andean Explorer
If you know someone who has been to Peru then chances are, they have told you about one of the 10 most amazing train journeys that goes right through Peru. The hype around the Andean Explorer is all for good reason because the breathtaking vistas of the Altiplano make it worth the 10-hour train ride. You can still go by plane if you don’t have as many days to spare but if you do, don’t miss on the opportunity of going on this scenic train ride.
- Witness the Maras Salt Mines
The Maras salt mines are one of the most amazing places to see in Peru. These are basically salt evaporation ponds that are built on top of each other almost like small terraces. These salt mines are older than Machu Picchu and historians believe that they have been around for more than 1,000 years.
- Go to Moray
If you are going to Maras to see the salt mines, you should take a trip down to Moray. Moray is only a few kilometers away from Maras but the landscape you will be able to see there is nothing short of out of this world. Many people say that the Inca site almost looks as if it was visited by aliens. Most historians claim that Moray was probably a ritual garden in the ancient times or an agricultural laboratory. The most astounding factor is believed to be the individual climate every step has.
- Amazon rainforest
The Amazon rainforest is at one point or the other in everyone’s bucket-list. Whether you are a solo female travelling or on women only holidays, the Amazon rainforest is a great place for adventures which are like no other. From seeing pink dolphins to witnessing mysterious tapirs, Amazon rainforest and river is sure to leave a great first impression on you and your girlfriends.
- Sandboard near the Huacachina Oasis
Peru has such a wide range of offerings, so much that one day you can be exploring the wildlife of the Amazon and the very next day you can find yourself in the middle of the desert feeling as if you are in the middle of the Sahara and not in South America. The Huacachina Oasis is surreal and it proves to be a great place for people who are into sandboarding or dune buggy riding.
- Witness the Nazca lines from above
If you have done your research on Peru then it is quite likely that you have read about the Nazca lines. These lines are located in the Nazca desert, south of Peru. The best way to witness them is to get on mini planes offering their services in the area. Once you are up in the air, take your due time to appreciate their grandeur and mystic nature. However, if you are afraid of getting on a plane then you can get on the surrounding foothills to look at them.
- Check out the Colca Canyon
The Colca Canyon is Peru’s take on the Grand Canyon. With a jaw-dropping depth of 3,270 meters, the majestic Colca Canyon is home to the Andean condor which after years and years of efforts of preservation can finally be seen again and that too in its natural habitat. The Colca Canyon is the third most visited site of Peru and it is well known for the trekking adventure that it offers. In addition to the spectacular views, you get to witness secluded villages and immerse yourself within their tradition, which makes you known to real life of Peruvians.
