So you’ve finally decided to take that trip of a lifetime to Peru. Kudos to you! Peru offers some of the most stunning scenery and richest culture in all of South America. As one of the original heartlands of the Incan Empire, Peru is filled with mysterious ancient ruins, bustling markets, colorful textiles, and amazing cuisine. And let’s not forget about the natural wonders like the soaring Andes mountains, the lush Amazon rainforest, and the mysterious Nazca Lines. With so much to see and do, planning a trip to Peru can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, Travelwings has got you covered. We’ve handpicked the top destinations you simply can’t miss on your first trip to Peru. From exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas to sailing across the highest navigable lake in the world, your Peru adventure with Travelwings will be an experience you never forget. What are you waiting for? Start packing your bags and get ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime. The treasures of Peru await!
Marvel at Machu Picchu: The Famous Incan Citadel
If there’s one must-see destination in Peru, it’s the magnificent ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. Set high in the Andes Mountains, this 15th-century Incan site is considered a masterpiece of engineering with its stone buildings and agricultural terraces. Book a guided tour to learn all about the history and hidden secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Once you arrive, you’ll be in awe at the scale and beauty of Machu Picchu. Walk along the Inca Trail, see the Temple of the Sun, and gaze upon the Sacred Plaza. Snap photos of the picturesque stone architecture with the cloud forest peaks as a stunning backdrop. Spend time exploring the ruins at your own pace, imagining what life was like for the Incan people who once inhabited this royal estate.
For a bucket list experience, hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a 2-4 day trek through the Andes. You’ll pass Incan tunnels and citadels along the way before arriving at the Sun Gate entrance to finally glimpse the majestic citadel below. The trek requires permits and booking with an authorized Inca Trail tour operator, but the rewards of this journey are well worth the effort.
Whether you get there by bus or foot, Machu Picchu is a destination you’ll never forget. Let Travelwings handle all the logistics so you can focus on enjoying this Wonder of the World in person. A visit to Peru isn’t complete without exploring the ancient stone streets of Machu Picchu!
Experience Lima: The Cosmopolitan Capital
Lima is a vibrant metropolis on the coast of Peru with a rich history, culture, and cuisine. As the capital city, it’s a must-see on any Peruvian adventure.
Explore the Historic Center
Take a stroll through Plaza de Armas, the historic main square surrounded by colonial architecture like the Government Palace and Cathedral of Lima. The nearby San Francisco Monastery is a landmark church with underground catacombs. For a glimpse into Lima’s pre-colonial past, visit Huaca Pucllana, an ancient adobe and clay pyramid.
Indulge in World-Class Cuisine
Lima is a foodie’s paradise and is considered the gastronomic capital of Latin America. Sample ceviche, Peru’s national dish of raw fish marinated in citrus juice, or lomo Salgado, a Peruvian take on stir fry. For upscale dining, restaurants like Central and Maido, ranked among the world’s best, offer tasting menus highlighting Peruvian flavors and ingredients.
Shop at an Outdoor Market
Head to the Mercado Indio for handcrafted goods, the Barranco district for boutiques featuring local designers, or the open-air Miraflores Crafts Market to shop for alpaca sweaters, woven textiles, jewelry, and other artisanal products. You’re sure to find some unique souvenirs to take home.
Relax in a Cliffside Neighborhood
The tony Miraflores district offers panoramic sea views from its coastal cliffs. Stroll through Kennedy Park, watch paragliders at the cliff’s edge, or soak in the sunset over a pisco sour from an open-air bar. For a quiet retreat, the historic Barranco district has charming cobblestone streets, art galleries, and cafes in a bohemian setting.
Explore the Amazon Rainforest via Travelwings
One of the top destinations you can experience through Travelwings is the lush Amazon Rainforest. As the largest tropical rainforest on Earth, the Amazon is home to incredible biodiversity, with many plants and animals found nowhere else in the world.
Book an eco-lodge and stay deep in the jungle to immerse yourself in the sounds of the forest. Wake up to the calls of colorful birds and monkeys outside your canopy cabin. Spend your days canoeing along winding rivers, spotting caimans sunbathing on the banks, and piranhas swimming below. Trek through dense vegetation with an experienced guide to see some of the rainforest’s most famous residents like the brilliant blue morpho butterfly or the golden lion tamarin.
At night, venture out on a night hike. The jungle comes alive after dark, full of the sounds of frogs, insects, and nocturnal animals. You may spot an ocelot on the prowl or tarantulas climbing up tree trunks. Stargazing in the rainforest is unparalleled, with the Milky Way stretching endlessly across the sky, unobscured by city lights.
A trip to the Amazon Rainforest is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. Through Travelwings, you’ll journey deep into this emerald world, discovering its wonders and gaining an appreciation for this vital ecosystem. An Amazon adventure is perfect for any nature lover or eco-tourist looking for an authentic glimpse into this lush paradise.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a whirlwind adventure through some of the top destinations Peru has to offer. Whether you’re looking to explore the ancient Inca sites of Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley, see the colorful weavings of indigenous tribes in the Andes, spot exotic wildlife in the Amazon rainforest, or just relax on a secluded beach, Peru has something for everyone. With the expertise of Travelwings guiding you through the booking and planning, you’ll be on your way to the trip of a lifetime in no time. What are you waiting for? Start packing your bags, the adventure awaits! The stunning vistas, mouth-watering cuisine, and vibrant culture are calling your name. Peru is ready to welcome you with open arms for a journey you’ll never forget.
