Peru

The former capital of the Empire of the Sun, Cusco is the jumping-off point for travelers seeking to discover Sacred Valley and the stone Inca city of Machu Picchu. Founded by the son of the Sun God (Inti), Cusco is the testimony of the greatness of the Inca Empire along with the Spanish colonial times. Explore this sacred city and travel back in time to learn all about the civilizations that inhabited Cusco. This city was originally shaped like a Puma, a native wildlife species, being its head the Sacsayhuaman fortress that you can also visit as the cherry on top of this stunning destination.

Machu Picchu is the most visited tourist attraction in Peru. There is not much left to say to describe one of the most fascinating archeological sites still standing on this planet. Located 100 kilometers (62 miles) away from Cusco, this city in the clouds as it’s also known has been preserved for over 500 years attracting visitors from all over the world who travel to pay homage to this sacred Inca city. Placed deep into the Andes mountain range, is one of the few well-preserved remnants of the Inca civilization due to the Inca’s remarkable engineering feats. Was named world heritage by UNESCO in 1983. Shrouded in mystery and sacredness Machu Picchu is for sure a one-of-a-kind experience itself in the entire world.

Land of volcanoes and testimony of mixture between Spanish colonial times and indigenous culture. Arequipa is for sure a must-visit stop in your itinerary. This city also serves as the gateway to Peru’s most visited natural attraction, the Colca Canyon. The White City, as it is known, offers some adrenaline to explorers as well: go hiking or canoeing in Colca’s Valley. To top up, if you are lucky, you may get to see the majestic Condor that flies on the Peruvian skies.

Peru has the second-highest amount of rainforest: the Amazon is one of the main geographical attractions of Peru. Surrounded by the sound of the flowing river, and nature in its rawest form, the Amazon is a unique place on the entire Earth. To start your jungle adventure, the main gateways are Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado. And if looking for a truly immersive experience in the Amazon, lodges within it are available for a true adventure of a lifetime.

The Urubamba Valley, better known as Sacred Valley lies amongst the Andes, close to Cusco and the ancient city of Machu Picchu. According to recent research, this was the heartland of the Inca Empire. Nowadays you can find the colorful Urubamba Market and mingle with the Inca’s descendants. Marvel yourself with impressive views of the valley and why not go touring or hiking through some of the ancient ruins you can find like Písac and Ollantaytambo.

This city, the largest in the area, is the main gateway for travelers seeking to explore the Amazonas. Is important to remark that reaching this city is only possible by boats or planes, as by land is inaccessible. The main activities explorers choose to experience in Iquitos are butterfly farms, animal orphanages, and of course, visiting the Amazon jungle. In this Peru travel guide, you will only find encouragement to get more and more adventurous!

The capital coastal city of Peru, Lima is bursting with colorful facades and a wonderful blend of pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern infrastructure. Lima’s Historic Centre of Lima, named world heritage by UNESCO, is the testimony of the colonial times when Lima functioned as the capital city of the Spanish colony in South America. Delight yourself with the most renowned restaurant in the country and try traditional Peruvian dishes – you won’t regret it!

Gran Hotel Bolívar 

Jirón de la Unión 958

Pisco Sour

If you are looking for the most popular and traditional Pisco Sour, here is where you will find it. Placed on Plaza San Martin, you can order a Pisco Sour in the bar of this classic hotel. 

Antigua Taberna Queirolo 

Av. San Martín 1090 Pueblo Libre

Regional Food 

130 years old and the right place to enjoy a traditional exquisite Peruvian breakfast. 

Carnal 

Calle Elías Aguirre 698, Miraflores

Regional Food / Grill

It is the first meat-specialized restaurant in Peru. Enjoy yourself in this sophisticated restaurant and try all its Angus meat cuts.

El Mercado 

Hipolito Unanue 203 A 1

Seafood

Cataloged in 2019 as one of the Top 20 Best Restaurants in Peru, El Mercado offers delicious Peruvian dishes: they claim every plate pays homage to Peru’s cuisine.

Indio Feliz 

Pje. Lloque Yupanqui 103

Franco-Peruvian Food

Ceviche, trout with different sauces made of local ingredients will for sure be a great culinary experience. Vegetarian options are available. Enjoy a delicious Peruvian meal in this magical village. 

Full House & Peruvian Cuisine 

Av. Imperio de los Incas 620

Local Food 

Located next to the sacred Vilcanota river, delight yourself with Peruvian cuisine while enjoying a beautiful lush surrounding. 

Yaku Cocina de Altura 

Calle San Juan de Dios 214 Plaza Regocijo

Local Food / Latin Food

Artfully crafted, enjoy Peruvian and South American traditional dishes. Veggie and vegan food is available.

Green Point 

235 Calle Carmen Bajo San Blas

Vegan / Regional Food

Vegan-friendly indeed. Enjoy this plant-based restaurant of Peruvian food as they called themselves.