12 Beautiful Places in Peru You Have to See to Believe (2025)

304

Standing at 16,000 feet in Peru’s Rainbow Mountains, I couldn’t catch my breath – and it wasn’t just the altitude. The colors shouldn’t exist in nature, but there they were, striping across the peaks like some giant had painted them. This country’s beauty is almost violent in how it grabs you.

These are the most beautiful places to visit in Peru that will redefine your idea of what nature can do. Here are my 12 favorite landscapes that showcase why this place belongs in a category all its own!

👉 Find Your Perfect Peru Accommodation
👉 My Favorite Tour in Peru

#1 tip to save money on your trip to Peru

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Peruvian adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last fall, I flew to Lima for just $325 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Seek out menú del día spots in Lima’s Miraflores. Three-course lunches cost a quarter of dinner prices. In Cusco, the San Pedro Market’s second floor serves fresh ceviche and lomo saltado for half what you’d pay in the Plaza de Armas. For Sacred Valley exploring, load up on snacks at local markets rather than tourist shops.
• Transport: I recommend using Peru Hop between major cities. It’s safer than night buses and includes stop-offs at key sites. For Cusco day trips, colectivos from Calle Puputi cost far less than tours. The local train to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo saves significantly over the tourist train if you book ahead.

Peru may have a reputation for Machu Picchu crowds, but there are plenty of ways to experience its ruins and culture on a budget. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Peru:

The Prettiest Places in Peru

Ready to explore beyond Machu Picchu? From rainbow mountains to hidden jungle lodges, here are the spots that made me extend my Andes adventure.

1. Cusco: The Heartbeat of Incan Heritage

• 📍 Location: Cusco Region, Peru
• 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ History buffs, 🧭 cultural explorers, 🥾 gateway trekkers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Sacsayhuamán ruins, walking through San Blas, visiting the Coricancha temple
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for dry weather and vibrant festivals 🎉
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Palacio del Inka – Elegant hotel set in a colonial mansion just steps from major landmarks

Cusco was once the capital of the Inca Empire, and that legacy still pulses through its cobblestone streets. The blend of Incan foundations and Spanish colonial architecture creates a unique atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in Peru. It’s the kind of place where you can turn a corner and stumble into a centuries-old cathedral or an ancient stone wall.

One of the best parts of being in Cusco is wandering without a plan. The San Blas neighborhood is filled with artisan shops and cozy cafés, while the Coricancha, once the most important Inca temple, offers a glimpse into a sacred past layered beneath colonial construction.

As the jumping-off point for Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, Cusco is where most travelers begin their Peruvian adventure. But it deserves more than just a stopover, it’s a place to settle in and feel the rhythm of history all around you.

2. Rainbow Mountain: A Symphony of Colors

• 📍 Location: Ausangate Region, Andes Mountains, Peru
• 🏆 Best For: 🏞️ Landscape lovers, 🥾 hikers, 📷 Instagram moments
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to the summit, spotting alpacas along the trail, admiring the Vinicunca ridgeline
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to August for clear skies and dry trail conditions 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Tierra Viva Cusco Centro – Comfortable stay in Cusco with easy access to Rainbow Mountain day tours

Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, doesn’t look real at first glance. Its vibrant bands of red, yellow, turquoise, and lavender seem painted on, but the colors come from mineral deposits layered over time by natural forces. Seeing it in person feels like stepping into a surreal postcard.

The trek to the summit sits at over 17,000 feet, so it’s no casual stroll. Altitude acclimation in Cusco is a must, and taking your time on the trail is key. Despite the challenge, the panoramic view at the top is worth every slow step, especially when flocks of alpacas graze nearby or clouds part to reveal snow-capped peaks in the distance.

Guided day trips from Cusco usually leave early in the morning, and while it can get crowded during peak season, the sheer scale of the landscape still feels powerful and personal.

3. Machu Picchu: The Timeless Wonder

• 📍 Location: Urubamba Province, Cusco Region, Peru
• 🏆 Best For: 🏯 Ancient sites, 🥾 trekkers, 📸 bucket-list views
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching sunrise at the Sun Gate, touring the citadel with a guide, taking the scenic train from Ollantaytambo
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for dry weather and clear views 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel – Tranquil retreat nestled in cloud forest near the ruins

Machu Picchu lives up to every bit of the hype. Tucked high in the Andes and wrapped in clouds, this 15th-century Inca citadel stuns not just for its location but for how intact and mysterious it remains. It’s one of those rare places where the energy shifts the moment you walk in.

Reaching it is part of the experience. You can hike the classic Inca Trail, try the less crowded Salkantay Trek, or opt for the scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley. Once there, you’ll explore temples, agricultural terraces, and the famed Intihuatana stone, all while llamas roam freely across the grounds.

To make the most of your visit, aim for early morning. The rising sun cutting through mist over the peaks adds a sense of magic to what’s already a jaw-dropping place.

4. Lake Titicaca: A Mirror to the Sky

• 📍 Location: Puno Region, Peru
• 🏆 Best For: 🛶 Island hopping, 🏠 homestays, 🧘 peaceful retreats
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Uros floating islands, staying overnight on Amantani, taking a boat across the lake
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for dry days and clear reflections on the water ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Titilaka – Luxury lakeside lodge with panoramic views and cultural excursions included

Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world, but what really stands out is the stillness. The water stretches to the horizon like glass, reflecting sky, mountains, and the colorful boats of locals who live on its surface.

The Uros Islands, made entirely of reeds, are among the most unique communities anywhere. Families build their homes and boats from the same material and welcome guests into their daily routines. Visiting Amantani or Taquile Island gives a deeper sense of local life, with opportunities to stay in simple homes and share traditional meals.

Life moves pretty slow here, which is part of the appeal. Whether you’re soaking up a pink-toned sunset or listening to folklore from your host family, the lake offers a peaceful window into Peru’s living traditions.

5. Manu National Park: The Amazon’s Hidden Gem

• 📍 Location: Madre de Dios and Cusco Regions, Peru
• 🏆 Best For: 🦜 Wildlife lovers, 🌳 rainforest trekkers, 🛶 eco-tourists
• 📸 Top Experiences: Spotting macaws at clay licks, exploring oxbow lakes by canoe, hiking canopy trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for dry weather and better wildlife sightings 🐒
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Manu Wildlife Center – Eco-lodge deep in the rainforest offering guided tours and wildlife experiences

Manu National Park is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. Spanning cloud forest to lowland jungle, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can see giant otters, howler monkeys, and more bird species than most countries combined. It feels like stepping into a wild, living laboratory.

Getting to Manu isn’t as easy as hopping on a bus. The journey often involves a mix of road and river travel, but that’s what makes the experience so immersive. It also means fewer tourists, which gives you better chances to connect with nature in a real, unfiltered way.

Guided tours offer everything from night hikes to early morning macaw viewings. It’s a full-on rainforest adventure, ideal for travelers who want to trade crowds for canopies and replace notifications with birdsong.

6. Salinas de Maras: The Salt Pans of the Sacred Valley

• 📍 Location: Sacred Valley, Cusco Region, Peru
• 🏆 Best For: 🧂 Unique landscapes, 📸 photography, 🌄 cultural history
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the salt terrace trails, learning about traditional salt farming, visiting nearby Maras village
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to August for dry days and bright contrasts across the salt pans 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado – Scenic hotel with mountain views near Sacred Valley sites

Salinas de Maras is a surreal sight, a series of thousands of terraced salt pools carved into the hillside and glinting under the sun. These pans have been in use since Inca times, filled with mineral-rich water that dries into salt crystals collected by local families.

Walking the paths around the pools feels like stepping through a living mosaic. The contrast between white salt, brown hills, and blue skies makes this one of the most photogenic spots in the Sacred Valley. Locals still manage and harvest the pools, and you can even buy small bags of the hand-collected salt to take home.

It’s easy to combine a visit with a stop at Moray, another nearby Inca site. Together, they show how advanced and resourceful Inca engineering was, and how those traditions are still alive today.

• Read next: Unique Travel Experiences

7. Oasis of Huacachina: The Desert’s Hidden Paradise

• 📍 Location: Ica Region, Peru
• 🏆 Best For: 🏜️ Sandboarding, 🛺 dune buggy rides, 🍹 chill escapes
• 📸 Top Experiences: Riding a dune buggy at sunset, sandboarding the steep slopes, relaxing by the lagoon
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for warm weather and sunny desert views ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel El Huacachinero – Laid-back hotel with a pool and direct access to the dunes

Huacachina looks like something out of a mirage. It’s a tiny green lagoon surrounded by palm trees and massive sand dunes stretching out in every direction. This natural desert oasis offers a completely different side of Peru, one with golden landscapes and adrenaline-packed fun.

The main draw here is the adventure. Dune buggy rides toss you up and over the steep sand hills, and sandboarding gives you the chance to ride them down face-first. At sunset, the desert glows orange and pink, and the view from the top of the dunes is one of the best in the country.

In the evenings, Huacachina quiets down, making it perfect for sipping a drink by the water or joining a bonfire under the stars. It’s an ideal break between cultural stops and high-altitude treks.

8. The Andes Mountains: The Majestic Backbone of South America

• 📍 Location: Stretches through Peru’s central spine
• 🏆 Best For: 🏞️ Trekkers, 🐎 nature photographers, 🏔️ alpine scenery seekers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the Cordillera Blanca, exploring Andean villages, riding horses through high mountain passes
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to August for clear skies and safe trekking conditions 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Andino Club Hotel – Cozy alpine-style lodge in Huaraz with epic mountain views

The Andes Mountains are the soul of Peru’s geography. Stretching from north to south, they divide the country into three natural regions and are home to some of the highest peaks in the Western Hemisphere. Travelers looking for epic treks, jaw-dropping vistas, and off-the-grid moments will find plenty to explore here.

The Cordillera Blanca, near Huaraz, offers postcard-worthy alpine landscapes and bucket list hikes like the Santa Cruz Trail and Laguna 69. These treks take you past turquoise lakes, glaciers, and meadows filled with wildflowers. Higher up, mountaineers challenge themselves with snow-covered giants like Huascarán, Peru’s tallest peak.

But the Andes aren’t just about scenery. Small Quechua-speaking villages keep ancestral ways of life alive. You’ll see farmers tending terraced fields, colorful markets selling handwoven textiles, and festivals filled with music and dance. The mountains shape every part of life here, and visiting lets you feel that connection firsthand.

9. Nazca Lines: The Desert’s Ancient Enigma

• 📍 Location: Nazca Desert, Ica Region, Peru
• 🏆 Best For: 🛩️ Aerial views, 🏺 history fans, 🧩 mystery lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Flying over the geoglyphs, visiting the Nazca Lines Viewing Tower, exploring the Maria Reiche Museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for clear skies and smooth flights ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Casa Hacienda Nasca Oasis – Tranquil hotel with gardens and easy access to the airport

The Nazca Lines are among Peru’s most fascinating mysteries. Etched into the desert floor over 1,500 years ago, these enormous geoglyphs can only be fully appreciated from the sky. Shapes like a hummingbird, monkey, and spider stretch across the sand, sparking endless theories about their origins and purpose.

To really take in their scale, hop on a small plane from Nazca Airport. The ride offers an unforgettable aerial perspective and lets you see just how precise and massive these designs truly are. If flying isn’t your thing, the Viewing Tower off the Pan-American Highway gives you a peek at a few key figures from ground level.

The surrounding area also has ancient aqueducts and adobe ruins that help paint a picture of the pre-Inca cultures that once thrived here. It’s a great stop for anyone curious about ancient civilizations beyond Machu Picchu.

10. Arequipa: The White City of Colonial Charm

• 📍 Location: Arequipa Region, southern Peru
• 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ Architecture lovers, ☕ café hoppers, 🌋 volcano views
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Santa Catalina Monastery, admiring Plaza de Armas, touring Museo Santuarios Andinos
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to September for sunny days and mild temperatures 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: CIRQA – Upscale boutique hotel in a restored colonial building near the city center

Arequipa stands out with its white volcanic stone buildings, elegant churches, and dramatic setting between towering volcanoes. Nicknamed the “White City,” it blends Spanish colonial charm with a distinctly relaxed vibe. You can easily spend a few days exploring its architecture, plazas, and cozy cafés.

The Santa Catalina Monastery feels like a city within a city, with its colorful walls and peaceful courtyards. Nearby, Plaza de Armas offers postcard-perfect views with the Misti Volcano looming in the background. Arequipa also has one of Peru’s most unique museums—Museo Santuarios Andinos, home to the frozen Inca mummy “Juanita.”

Foodies will love the city’s traditional dishes like rocoto relleno and chupe de camarones, best enjoyed in a sunlit courtyard or rooftop restaurant. If you’re into a place that blends beauty, history, and flavor in every direction, Arequipa should be on your itinerary.

11. Paracas National Reserve: Coastal Beauty Meets Ancient Mysteries

• 📍 Location: Ica Region, Peru
• 🏆 Best For: 🌊 Coastal explorers, 🐧 wildlife watchers, 🏺 archaeology fans
• 📸 Top Experiences: Boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, walking the red beaches of Playa Roja, exploring the Paracas Museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to November for calm seas and ideal wildlife spotting 🐦
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort – Upscale beachfront stay with private dock and ocean views

Paracas National Reserve is a protected coastal zone where desert cliffs meet the Pacific Ocean. Its dry, dramatic landscape hides ancient secrets and bursts with wildlife, from sea lions lounging on rocks to flocks of flamingos and colonies of Humboldt penguins.

Most travelers come for a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, often called the “Poor Man’s Galápagos” for their incredible biodiversity. Along the way, you’ll see the Candelabra geoglyph etched into a hillside, a mysterious symbol still debated by archaeologists. Back on land, you can walk along the rust-colored sands of Playa Roja, one of Peru’s most striking beaches.

The nearby Paracas Museum offers insights into the ancient Paracas culture known for its intricate textiles and skull-shaping practices. It’s a spot where natural beauty and archaeology meet in one unforgettable coastline.

12. Lima: The Culinary Capital with a Historic Heart

• 📍 Location: Lima Province, Peru
• 🏆 Best For: 🍽️ Foodies, 🏛️ architecture lovers, 🌆 city explorers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Dining in Miraflores, touring the Historic Center, walking the Malecón cliffside path
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to April for sunshine along the coast 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Casa Andina Premium Miraflores – Stylish hotel in Lima’s foodie-friendly district with rooftop views

Lima blends centuries of history with one of the most exciting food scenes in the world. As Peru’s capital, it offers a little bit of everything—coastal views, colonial architecture, buzzing neighborhoods, and a cultural identity that runs deep. Travelers who take time to explore will find a city full of contrasts and creativity.

In the Historic Center, you’ll walk past grand cathedrals, baroque facades, and bustling plazas. The Barranco district is where Lima’s artsy side shines, with murals, music venues, and sunset views from Puente de los Suspiros. For green spaces and ocean breezes, head to Miraflores, home to cliffside paths, boutiques, and some of the best restaurants in South America.

Eating is central to the Lima experience. From street vendors selling anticuchos to tasting menus at award-winning spots, the food here is unforgettable. Spending a few days gives you time to enjoy both the city’s flavor and its charm.

• Read next: Must-See Places in South America

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Peru

Eager to broaden your understanding of the most picturesque places in this region? Below are some frequent inquiries I receive regarding the top attractions and activities here.

What is the number 1 tourist attraction in Peru?

The number 1 tourist attraction in Peru is undoubtedly Machu Picchu. It is often referred to as the ‘Lost City of the Incas. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a marvel of ancient architecture and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean landscapes. Its rich history, combined with its stunning beauty, makes it a bucket-list destination for travelers from around the world.

Where do people go on vacation in Peru?

Peru is a popular vacation destination with a wide variety of attractions that cater to different interests. Here’s where people often go when vacationing in Peru:

1. Machu Picchu: The iconic Incan city set high in the Andes Mountains is a must-visit for many travelers. It’s accessible via train or the famous Inca Trail hike.
2. Cusco: The historic capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Its blend of Incan and colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and lively festivals make it a popular destination.
3. Sacred Valley: Located near Cusco, the Sacred Valley is home to picturesque villages, Incan ruins, and beautiful landscapes. Towns like Ollantaytambo and Pisac are popular stops.
4. Lima: The capital city offers a mix of history, culture, gastronomy, and nightlife. The historic center, Miraflores district, and Barranco neighborhood are popular areas to explore.
5. Arequipa: Known as the “White City,” Arequipa is famous for its colonial architecture, surrounding volcanoes, and nearby Colca Canyon.
6. Lake Titicaca: Situated at high altitude, Lake Titicaca is known for its floating islands and indigenous cultures. Puno is the main gateway to explore the lake.
7. Amazon Rainforest: The city of Iquitos serves as a starting point for Amazon River cruises and jungle lodges, offering a chance to explore the rich biodiversity of the Amazon Basin.

What is a special place in Peru? 

A special place in Peru is the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Nestled between Cusco and Machu Picchu, this fertile valley is dotted with ancient ruins, traditional villages, and terraced fields. It’s a place where time seems to stand still. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Incas. The valley’s serene landscapes, combined with its historical significance, make it a unique and memorable destination in Peru.

What are the must-see places in Peru?

Peru is a treasure trove of natural wonders, historic sites, and cultural experiences. Some of the must-see places in Peru include Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Cusco, the Nazca Lines, Lake Titicaca, and the Amazon Rainforest, among others.

When is the best time to visit Peru?

The best time to visit largely depends on the region. For the Andean region, including Machu Picchu, the dry season from May to September is ideal. For the Amazon, it’s best to visit during the dry season, which runs from June to November.

What is beautiful about Peru?

Peru is a country of diverse and breathtaking beauty. It truly offers a rich tapestry of landscapes, cultural heritage, and historical landmarks. Here’s what makes Peru so beautiful:

1. Machu Picchu: One of the most iconic sites in the world, Machu Picchu is a stunning Incan city set high in the Andes Mountains. Its archaeological significance and panoramic mountain views are awe-inspiring.
2. Sacred Valley: This fertile valley in the Andes is filled with ancient ruins, terraced fields, and traditional villages. It’s a place where you can experience the rich history and culture of the Inca civilization.
3. Cusco: Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a beautiful city where cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and Incan ruins blend together.
4. Amazon Rainforest: The Peruvian Amazon is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, home to a vast array of wildlife and indigenous tribes. The lush jungle offers opportunities for exploration and adventure.
5. Lake Titicaca: The highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca is known for its deep blue waters and floating islands. It’s a place of both natural beauty and cultural significance.
6. Colca Canyon: One of the deepest canyons in the world, Colca Canyon offers breathtaking views, hot springs, and opportunities to see the majestic Andean condor in flight.
7. Nazca Lines: These ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor are a mysterious and beautiful sight. The lines form various shapes and figures, and their purpose remains a subject of intrigue.

Is it safe to travel around Peru?

Yes, Peru is generally safe for tourists. However, like any destination, it’s essential to take standard precautions, especially in crowded areas. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Peru

Peru is a land of contrasts, a mesmerizing blend of ancient civilizations, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural traditions. From the majestic peaks of the Andes to the dense jungles of the Amazon, from the enigmatic Nazca Lines to the bustling streets of Lima, every corner of this nation tells a story, waiting to be discovered.

As we’ve journeyed through some of the most beautiful places in Peru, it’s evident that the country’s allure goes beyond its iconic landmarks. It’s in the warmth of its people, the tapestry of its history, and the rhythm of its daily life. Whether you’re trekking to ancient ruins, savoring its culinary delights, or simply soaking in its natural beauty, Peru offers experiences that touch the soul and ignite the spirit.

For those seeking adventure, introspection, or simply a break from the mundane, Peru beckons with open arms. It’s a reminder that our world is vast, diverse, and incredibly beautiful. And in the heart of South America, amidst the mountains, deserts, and rainforests, lies a country that encapsulates the essence of exploration and wonder.

So, as you contemplate your next travel destination, remember the words of the famous explorer Hiram Bingham: “Few romances can ever surpass that of the granite citadel on top of the beetling precipices of Machu Picchu, the crown of Inca Land.” Indeed, in Peru, the adventure is just beginning.