Unique Places to Visit in Peru
Welcome to this list that looks at some of the most unique places to visit in Peru.
Peru is a truly incredible country, and also surprises travellers with the large variety of unique things to see and do.
This is why I decided to set up roots here after travelling around for many months, where I saw all kinds of weird and wonderful things in all corners of this country.
From hiking through the remote Andes to taking Ayahuasca with local tribes in the Amazon Jungle, a trip through Peru can be a truly unforgettable one (as it has been for me).
Unique Places to Visit in Peru
In this guide I’ll cover 21 unique places to visit in Peru that I have visited, including what I thought was the best “must-visit” in each. We’ll also look at other important things to know such as how long to spend in Peru as well as the current safety situation here.
Is Peru worth visiting?
Peru is without a doubt one of the most geographically-diverse countries you can visit in Latin America. In just a few hours from Lima you can either be in the desert, mountains, beach or even camping next to archaeological ruins.
I highly recommend planning your itinerary around these varying areas, and you’ll find that you can visit quite a range of these in just a couple of weeks.
As well as this, you’ll find the cultural scene here really memorable too. From local Andean festivals and traditions to an array of incredible Peruvian foods to sink your teeth into, there will always be something new just around the corner.
This is another reason I recommend visiting the more unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations, given they’re more authentic (and less built-up for the tourist eye).
Why not read more about the Best Reasons to visit Peru for more inspiration?
Is Peru safe?
Safety in Peru is an important topic, especially as it can really vary throughout the country. Many places like Cusco, Arequipa and the beaches around Piura are really safe, and travellers can head out alone both during the day and night without issues (following basic safety guidelines of course).
The smaller cities in the Andes and Jungle can feel more seedy, especially when away from the main Plaza de Armas (or if diving into the local markets). Moto-taxis tend to fly around the roads without rules here too – so always keep an eye out when crossing!
Lima rightfully deserves it own article, given the capital is a really huge city (it’s the second largest in South America after all!). However the districts of Miraflores, San Isidro and Barranco are all super safe for tourists, and have a large range of accommodation options, restaurants and amenities to enjoy.
Other parts like the Historic Centre, Chorrillos and Callao (near the airport) must be treated with caution. You can read our guide on safety in Peru for our full-breakdown.
How many days in Peru for the perfect stay?
This really depends on you and what you want to get out of your trip. However having seen everything myself, I’d say that travellers would realistically need between 3-5 weeks to see the very best highlights of Peru.
This includes seeing Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, hiking through the Amazon Jungle near Iquitos as well as visiting the beautiful cities of Arequipa and Lima.
If you’re really in a rush, I’d say that the minimum time-frame would be 2 weeks. You’d only be staying a couple of days in each place, but can still see the top sights (I recommend using flights in this case to save on travel times).
Personally, if I had to do it all again, then I’d do the exact same and make the very most of the 3 month tourist visa! Not only can you see everything above, however you can see some extremely underrated places too such as the waterfalls of Chachapoyas, hiking trails in the Huascarán National Park as well as seeing glacial lakes in the regions close to Lima.
Read all about this topic in our article that talks about How Many Days in Peru are needed.
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21 Unique Places to Visit in Peru
Now let’s dive into 21 of the very best places you can visit in Peru. Some of these really surprised me, so keep an open mind and I’m sure you’ll also find one or two that you’ll be coming back to soon!
1. Chachapoyas (Yumbilla Falls)
Starting off this list we have Chachapoyas, which is located in the remote north of Peru. Despite being far from the mainstream tourist path, here we can find some incredible waterfalls that rank as some of the highest on earth.
Yumbilla is one of my personal favourites, which was only discovered in the last few decades and measures a giant 895m tall (it’s the fifth tallest on the globe). To get here you’ll need to take a bus from Chachapoyas to Pedro Ruiz, and then a mototaxi to the national park entrance (around 3-4 hours to get there).
You’ll be hiking through jungle with virtually nobody else there, so make sure to bring lots of water and some food.
2. Huacachina (Sandboarding)
Swapping the high jungle for the Peruvian desert, now we enter the ever-popular oasis town of Huacachina. Although it’s located just a couple of kilometres from the major city of Ica, it feels like it’s in a world of it’s own surrounded by giant sand dunes (some of which reach up to 500m in height).
As well as climbing these at sunrise for insane views, one of the must-do activities here is Sandboarding. On this all-inclusive Day Tour from Lima you’ll head off into the Ica Desert, where you can ride down these beasts and also have a buggy ride tour thrown in too!
3. Iquitos (See Pink Dolphins)
Located deep within the Amazon Jungle, Iquitos is in fact the largest city on earth which cannot be driven too! The only way to get here is either by flight or boat, which makes it even more memorable once you arrive.
The city itself is quite chaotic, with moto-taxis flying around and lots of noise, however the nearby Belén Market offers an interesting view on local life where you can pick up some memorable souvenirs.
Iquitos is also the perfect place to head on a jungle tour, and on this multi-day experience you can see everything from Pink Dolphins and Caiman to Monkeys and even a Jaguar if you’re lucky!
4. Pimentel (Longest Pier in Peru)
One of the lesser-known coastal towns by tourists, Pimentel is a charming fishing village located just a few kilometres away from Chiclayo.
Here we can swap the city bustle for relaxation, and also enjoy some great Ceviche at some of the small restaurants that line the malecón.
Whilst the beach itself isn’t as nice as those in Piura, it’s still great for getting some sun. Arguably the best thing to do here is to walk along the winding pier at sunset, which at over 800 metres is the overall longest in Peru.
5. Machu Picchu (Climb Huayna Picchu)
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu ticks all the right boxes. Here we can see some of the Inca’s finest work, which is surrounded by a really impressive backdrop of mountains and low-lying clouds.
Whilst it isn’t the most unique destination of all per se (given crowds of tourists visit annually), you can get a more authentic perspective by hiking up nearby Huayna Picchu for some higher-elevated views.
Even better is to head on this Inca Trail Tour, where you’ll spend several days traversing mountainous landscapes and seeing other lesser-known ancient sites on your way to Machu Picchu.
6. Ayacucho (Explore 30+ Colonial Churches)
This Andean city is simply a must-visit for those who love colonial architecture.
Home to 33 unique and stunning churches, you can easily spend a couple of days hunting them all down (this is what I did – and is a great way to mix up the usual backpacking lifestyle). The Plaza de Armas here is also really pleasant, and you can climb the cathedral for some awesome panoramic views.
To get to Ayacucho you’ll need to take the 10 hour bus from Lima, which is best travelled at night so you can save previous daytime hours.
7. Lake Titicaca (The Floating Uros Islands)
Straddling both Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is a really memorable place to visit. Located at 4000+ metres above sea-level, here we can see a bright-blue lake with dry grasslands at its banks.
Puno is the gateway to the Peruvian shore, which lies on the north of the lake. From here we can visit the surreal Uros Islands, which are completely man-made using the local Totora Reed (which grows wild on the banks of the lake).
Three different tribes still live on these islands to this day – The Uru-Chipaya, Uru-Murato, and Uru-Iruito groups – and on this all-inclusive tour you can get to know these tribes whilst also making a stop off at the stunning Taquile Island.
8. Huaraz (Nevado Mateo)
A paradise for hiking enthusiasts, I highly recommend all travellers to visit Huaraz on their trip through Peru.
Sandwiched between the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Negra mountain ranges, this city is surrounded by snow-capped jagged peaks. There’s a tonne of awesome day hikes to head on, such as those to the glacial lakes of Laguna 69 and Laguna Parón.
Nearby we’ll also find the Huascarán National Park, which is a really special area full of memorable mountain hikes. Nevado Mateo was one of my personal favourites, and I recommend joining this day tour which includes all hiking equipment, transport and lunch.
9. Pucallpa (Ayahuasca Ceremony)
Whilst there’s quite a few different Peruvian jungle cities listed here, Pucallpa is quite memorable in its own way.
This city is infamous for its local Shaman culture, which has been active for thousands of years in the surrounding jungle. Here we can find many curanderos who lead Ayahuasca ceremonies, which is a potent brew known for its healing and mind-opening experiences.
Having done Ayahuasca several times myself, my main piece of advice is to really search well before committing to a shaman. This means finding someone who is reputable, has many years of experience or if possible asking a personal contact or friend that can vouch for someone (you can get in touch with in the comments too if you’re interested).
10. Nazca (The Nazca Lines)
Situated between Lima and Arequipa, Nazca is a popular stop-off point for those making their way between the two by bus.
Whilst the city itself is quite plain, the nearby Cemetery of Chauchilla is known for its mummified human remains which date as far back as 100 B.C.
The real highlight here though has to be the mysterious Nazca Lines, which depict animals such as Spiders and Bird and measure as much as 600ft in a single straight line. I highly recommend joining this overhead flight tour of the Nazca Lines, where you’ll easily be able to make out the different shapes and see the overall scale of these creations.
11. Cajamarca (Ventanillas de Otuzco)
This city is by far the best for learning about true Peruvian culture, including both the ancient and more recent colonial periods.
It was here after all where the infamous “Ransom” event took place, which proved to be the final battle between the Inca and the Spanish.
As well as visiting the Ransom Room itself to learn about the more recent past, those who want to see more unorthodox ancient ruins can head to the nearby Ventanillas de Otuzco. An old burial site which consists of large holes carved out of a rocky wall, we can easily get to this site by taking a 30 minute colectivo from Cajamarca.
12. Lima (San Francisco Catacombs)
The Peruvian capital is usually used as an entry point to Peru and no more, however Lima is worth visiting for many reasons with it being so full of culture and interesting things to do.
One of the most unique attractions has to be the Catacombs of San Francisco, which are located within the Historic Centre. The second largest of its kind on earth, here we go underground as we explore chilling, mazing paths which are layered with skulls and bones (there’s reportedly over 25,000 human remains buried down here).
For those with just a day, the best option to see this site would be with this guided tour which also includes visits to other gems within the Historic Centre.
13. Ollantaytambo (Ollantaytambo Ruins)
Set within the incredible Sacred Valley region, Ollantaytambo is an Andean town bursting with culture. It’s true that there’s a lot of things to see in this region, however this town is a great option for those with less time.
Here we can explore the market (located just outside the ruins), which is the perfect place to grab a colourful poncho or alpaca garment.
The very best thing to do here though is exploring the Ollantaytambo Ruins, which is carved into the nearby mountain. Famous for its resistance against attacks from the Spanish, here we can also visit the legendary Sun Gate which is held up by six giant granite columns.
14. Piura (See Humpback Whales)
Whilst Peru has a lot going for it, it isn’t exactly known for its beaches. However right in the north (near Ecuador) we’ll find many gorgeous white sand beaches within the Piura region. And after a few weeks of hiking and constant long buses, this may also be exactly what you need!
Máncora is the popular backpacking town to base yourself, which is better for atmosphere rather than beaches. Those after a beautiful expansive beach can take a 15 minute mototaxi to nearby Las Pocitas.
The real gem of Piura though is seeing Humpback Whales, which are best seen between July and October (you can easily book local tours in Máncora which include all transport). Getting to Máncora is best by flight from Lima, or taking the bus from further north in Ecuador (from places like Montañita and Cuenca).
15. Cusco (Visit the ChocoMuseo)
This legendary city is full of incredible experiences, and it’s common to overstay in Cusco whilst trying to fit everything in (I’d recommend 2 weeks which felt about enough).
This includes visiting Incan Ruins, heading on day trips into the Sacred Valley and also touring the local markets. When it comes to unique experiences here though, it can be hard given there’s a lot of tourists everywhere.
Despite this, I highly recommend travellers to head to the ChocoMuseo. As well as learning how to make your very own chocolate (and eat tasty samples made from the chef), you’ll also learn the importance and history of Cocoa from this region of Peru.
16. Huanchaco (The Pyramids of Chan Chan)
Heading back along the Pacific coast, we now head to the sleepy town of Huanchaco (which is an outer district of Trujillo).
Similar to that of Pimentel, it is much more relaxed than it’s city neighbour and has some real great surfing.
The top highlight here is the Pyramids of Chan Chan, which is the largest Adobe city ever constructed on earth! The kingdom of the Chimú civilisation, it’s thought that as many as 100,000 people once lived here, and also that a large amount of precious gold was buried here to signify the wealth of the site.
17. Paracas (The Ballestas Islands)
Paracas has become a really popular stop-off for those travelling Southern Peru, and especially so as it’s very easy to access from Lima.
Here we can find the Ballestas Islands, which is a rich biodiverse area where we can find various species of Penguins, Marine Birds and Sea Lions. It’s often called the “poor man’s Galápagos” given its a much cheaper alternative to the Ecuadorean islands.
You can head on this combo day tour to explore the islands, where you’ll also head to Huacachina to go sandboarding.
18. Marcahuasi (Camping in the Andes)
When it comes to hiking and camping out on the mountain, Marcahuasi has to be one of the most memorable experiences I’ve ever had in Peru.
Located roughly 60km east of Lima, this mountain-top is known for its collection of bizarre and eccentrically-shaped rock formations. The hike up can be somewhat tiring (it’s over 4000m in altitude), however it’s definitely worth it for the sunset views from above.
Getting here isn’t too difficult, although it will be best to stay overnight so you’re not too worn out. From Lima you can take a bus to Chosica, and then another to the small mountain town of San Pedro de Casta (around 4-5 hours, so it’s best to leave in the early morning). The hike up will take 2-3 hours depending on your fitness level.
19. Caral (Second Oldest Ruins on Earth)
Whilst we can find a tonne of ancient ruins around The Sacred Valley and elsewhere in Peru, those of Caral are really special (and are one of my personal favourites).
Located some 178km north of Lima, Caral dates back over 5000 years and is the second oldest civilisation to have even been built on earth.
On this guided tour from Lima we can learn about the importance of this site, and also just how before their time they were when it came to astrology and the use of pottery. Just make sure to bring lots of water and sunscreen as it can get really hot out there in the desert.
20. Yurimaguas (Try Jungle Foods)
Well off the beaten path, Yurimaguas is a true jungle town which is perfect for those looking for a unique experience. This was the very reason I went here, as I found nearby Tarapoto too touristy (which was only a 3 hour bus ride away).
The very best thing to do here is to visit the Mercado El Vado, which is fully outdoors and has rows of both weird and wonderful foods to try. Some foods that I recommend include Cecina (pork) and Plátano Maduro (fried plantains).
If you’re really up for a food adventure, then you can try local delights such as chicken feet, alligator meat and even the infamous Surri (I’ll be honest the Surri almost made me vomit, but I’ve heard other tourists like it so I’ll leave that decision up to you!). See this practical guide on the best time to visit Peru for tips on when to travel to this region.
21. Arequipa (The Colca Canyon)
Arequipa is one of the best cities you can visit in all of South America, let alone just Peru!
Here we can find a sea of white-washed colonial architecture, which is all made out of volcanic rocks from the nearby surrounding volcanoes. You can find even more near the Plaza de Armas, as well as in the district of Yanahuara.
However the nearby Colca Canyon steals all the thunder, and rightfully so. The second deepest canyon on earth, here we can see giant Condors soar through the sky as we hike through some pretty spectacle sceneries. I highly recommend joining this 2 Day Tour, where you’ll hike deeper into the canyon as well as have all transport and lunches included.
Unique Places to Visit in Peru
And that’s all for this guide on the most unique places to visit in Peru.
One of my all-time favourite Latin American countries, I think Peru is one that all travellers should visit at least once in their lifetime. Here you can have many unique experiences, see a variety of surreal landscapes and also try some fantastic food – and all in a relatively short period of time too.
Are you thinking of heading to Peru soon? Be sure to check out our Backpacking Peru Itinerary for more advice on how to plan your own trip here.
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