20 Best Things To Do In Peru – Ultimate 2025 Travel Guide

What are the top things to do in Peru? Peru is a colourful and vibrant country where traditional ways blend with modern culture. When you visit, you will be amazed by the stunning scenery, from big mountains to blue lakes that glisten. It's also a place with incredible architectural wonders from the ancient Inca world.

Then, have you checked off all the experiences you must complete here? Study our list of 20 activities—then pack your essentials and get ready for a one-of-a-kind adventure!

1. Explore The Ancient Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is Peru’s ultimate pride. Photo by helio - stock.adobe.com

When it comes to things to do in Peru, visiting Machu Picchu should be at the top of your list. This incredible city, high in the Andes, was built with expertly carved stones that fit together perfectly without mortar. Its fascinating structures, like the Temple of the Sun, is what Peru known for.

To get to Machu Picchu, you can hop on a scenic train from Cusco or take on the challenge of the famous Inca Trail. Either way, you’ll be treated to unforgettable views of the Andes and the Urubamba Valley.

Besides hiking, you can also participate in mountain biking, zip-lining, and even white-water rafting. Truly a place full of magic and adventurous opportunities.

For the best experience, we recommend visiting in the quieter months (May or October). Also, stay overnight nearby (somewhere like Hidroeléctrica) to give yourself plenty of time to explore and soak in the magic of this legendary place.

If you’re heading to Machu Picchu, you’ll want reliable gear that can handle the rough without weighing you down. The CabinZero ADV and ADV Pro are built for exactly that.

With a ventilated, padded back panel and ergonomic straps, they take the strain off your shoulders during long hikes. The packs feature plenty of compartments keep your gear organised. The weather-resistant materials also ensure your gear stays dry when mountain weather changes in an instant.

Whether you’re tackling the Inca Trail or taking the train, a reliable pack means one less thing to worry about. Invest in quality gear, pay once, cry once.  Grab one now so you can focus on the adventure ahead.

2. Spend A Day In Cusco

The masterfully crafted architecture of the Church of the Society of Jesus in Cusco, Peru. Photo by Mark - stock.adobe.com

Cusco is more than a stop on the way to Machu Picchu. It’s a city full of history and incredible sights awaiting to be explored. It’s no surprised that Cusco frequently find its way to the list of things to do in Peru.

Start by purchasing a Boleto Turístico del Cusco (BTC), which you will use to enter 15 major ancient sites for $38 at most. Come to COSITUC Office to grab one (not available for online purchase, sadly).

Next, walk on foot along the Plaza de Armas, the lively central plaza. From there, walk further up towards San Blas, a charming neighbourhood with independent stores, art galleries, and street mural paintings.

For a better understanding of the Inca civilisation, travel to the Sacred Valley and see the ancient remains of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero.

If you love local markets, don’t miss San Pedro Market, where you can grab fresh fruit juice and browse for handmade souvenirs. For something truly unique, check out the Salt Pans of Maras, a beautiful collection of salt pools spread across the mountainside.

CabinZero tips: Altitude sickness is real. Pencil in more time at Cusco or somewhere to get your body acclimate before hitting the Inca trail.

3. Stroll Through Capital Lima

A great destination in Peru. Photo by christian vinces - stock.adobe.com

A city steeped in history, Lima is known for its pre-Columbian clay buildings and delicious food. So, if you’re thinking of skipping this prime summer destination… don’t! There are plenty of great free things to do here, like taking a walking tour of the UNESCO-listed colonial town or discovering arts at Museo de Arte de Lima (free on Tuesday).

If you’re in Lima on a Sunday, check out the local organic market. Here, you can find homegrown delicacies—from hummus made with Tarwi beans to Muña Kombucha (a non-alcoholic beer) and fresh Lucuma-based botanical drinks.

For something a little more peaceful, take a stroll along the Malecón and enjoy the stunning ocean views at sunset. If you’re up for an adventure, paragliding is a cool way to see Lima from above.

4. Sail Across Lake Titicaca

The culture of the Uros people, who primarily rely on fishing, on Lake Titicaca. Photo by SL-Photography - stock.adobe.com

Visiting Lake Titicaca is an experience that simply must be included on anyone list of things to do in Peru. Sitting high up in the Andes, Lake Titicaca crosses the border of Peru and Bolivia. It’s the highest navigable lake in the world and the largest freshwater lake in South America.

The locals, Uros people, live on artificial floating islands made entirely of reeds. Spend at least a night here to see and learn about their fascinating way of life. A side note, don’t go behind the house or you may fall into the lake.

5. Take A Buggy Ride Or Sandboard In Huacachina

Dune buggy at Huacachina. Photo by SL-Photography - stock.adobe.com

It may look like the Sahara at first glance, but Huacachina is actually in Peru. Located in the same southwestern Peruvian province as the Nazca Lines, this tiny oasis village in the arid desert will wow you with its gorgeous beauty. Popular activities in this “oasis of South America” include sandboarding and dune buggy rides.

In addition, check out “Best Places to Visit in South America 2025” if you're interested in exploring this fascinating continent, 

6. Indulge In Peru’s Culinary Delights

Among the many things to do in Peru, trying local food is a must. Peruvian cuisine is an exciting mix of native ingredients and international flavours from Spain, China, Japan, and Africa.

One dish you can’t miss is Ceviche, Peru’s national treasure. It’s made with fresh white fish—like sea bass—cut into small pieces and marinated in lime juice. Then, it is mixed with chilli and cilantro for a refreshing kick. Ceviche has been around for centuries, though fun fact—limes weren’t introduced to Peru until the Spanish arrived.

Another favourite is Papas a la Huancaína, a dish of boiled potatoes smothered in a rich, spicy cheese sauce. It’s served cold with slices of boiled egg and olives—often a side, but it deserves the spotlight.

Feeling adventurous? Try Cuy (yep, guinea pig). It’s a traditional dish in highland towns like Cusco and the Urubamba Valley. If you’re up for it, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that food lovers from all over the world come to try.

7. Watch Giant Andean Condors Fly Over Colca Canyon

An Andean condor is flying over Colca Canyon in Peru. Photo by buenaventura13 - stock.adobe.com

Did you know that in the southernmost part of Peru, you’ll find one of the deepest canyons in the world? Colca Canyon stretches for miles, offering incredible trails and breathtaking views. It’s also home to the Andean Condor, one of the largest birds in the world, with a wingspan of up to 3.2 metres.

From the Cruz del Cóndor lookout point, you can watch these majestic birds hunting and soaring through the sky. There’s plenty more to do in the area—explore traditional villages, visit Inca ruins, or unwind in one of the many nearby hot springs.

8. Go White-Water Rafting On The Apurímac River

If you're looking for fun things to do in Peru, we suggest whitewater rafting along the Rio Apurimac. The journey starts high in the Andes at 3,400m, where the river is calm and easy. As the current picks up, you’ll ride through rugged mountains and breathtaking canyons, heading toward the Amazon. Multi-day rafting trips also include camping under star-filled skies and enjoying fresh riverside meals.

9. Ponder The Mysterious Nazca Lines

This topographical figure is often thought to be a condor, and it is easily visible when flying over the Nazca Lines. Photo by urdialex - stock.adobe.com

About 400 km south of Lima, you'll find the Nazca Lines. These huge, ancient drawings etched into the desert floor are believed to be created by the Nazca civilisation 2,000 years ago. These massive geoglyphs have fascinated researchers and travellers for generations.

Some of the drawings are over 200 metres wide, so the best (and really the only) way to see them properly is from the sky. Plenty of tour companies offer scenic flights. They are pretty expensive but worth every penny if you are a history buff.

10. Rail To See Wildlife At Ballestas Islands

This small group of islands is a protected wildlife haven famous for its rich biodiversity. The rocky arches and caves are home to all kinds of amazing creatures, from blue-footed cormorants and Humboldt penguins to boobies and pelicans. You’ll also see sea lions and seals lounging on the cliffs to soak up the sun.

To reach this biological spot, you can take a boat tour from the nearby coastal town of Paracas. The tour usually lasts about two hours. This experience is highly rated as one of the most wonderful things to do in Peru.

11. Celebrate The Festival Of The Sun: Inti Raymi

Local people celebrate Inti Raymi with great enthusiasm. Photo by Sana - stock.adobe.com

Peru is full of lively festivals. One of the most famous is Inti Raymi, held every year on June 24 in Cusco. This festival honours the Sun King, whom the Incas believed created everything on Earth, and is a time to pray for good harvests and fertile lands.

The festivities go on for a week, and people burn straws, jump over fires, and dance and sing in the streets. Experiencing it in person is way more exciting than just reading about it online.

12. Visit Museums And Ancient Mummies In Arequipa

If good food, walkable streets, and beautiful buildings are what you are after,  Arequipa is just the right place to be for you. It’s one of the most pleasant cities in Peru, and thus many digital nomads have called it their home for their time here.

One of its most stunning spots is the Santa Catalina Monastery, a beautiful complex in blue and terracotta. Be sure to visit the Santuarios Andinos Museum. This fascinating museum houses ancient mummies found on nearby volcanoes, including the famous "Ice Maiden" Juanita, who is over 550 years old.

13. Uncover The Maras Salt Ponds

Maras Salterns, also known locally as Salineras de Maras, is made up of thousands of small salt pools. Photo by saiko3p - stock.adobe.com

Maras is a fantastic spot for a day trip, just 90 minutes, from Cusco. One of the coolest things to do in Peru is see the huge salt ponds built on terraces, where locals have been making a living for generations. They’ve been using the same evaporation method to harvest salt for centuries. This makes it a great place to experience a piece of Peru’s history and culture. If you want to bring some Peruvian salt back home as a souvenir, put it in your checked bags.

14. Venture Into The Amazon Rainforest

When people think about exploring the Amazon, Brazil is usually the first place that comes to mind. But Peru is actually one of the best spots to experience it. This is where the Amazon River begins, winding its way through the Andes.

Manu National Park is packed with wildlife. It’s home to over 200 types of mammals and at least 1,000 species of birds. Hop on a boat and cruise along the river, and you might even spot a caiman up close. If you’re looking for more hands-on experience, there are also local volunteer projects you can join.

15. Hike To The Lost City Of Choquequirao

The lesser known ruin in Peru. Photo by nomadkate - stock.adobe.com

Hidden deep in the mountains and wrapped in mist, Choquequirao is remote and challenging to reach, but that only adds to its mystery and appeal. If you're looking for unique things to do in Peru, this mystical site is an unmissable destination.

Built in a style similar to Machu Picchu, this mystical site sits on terraces carved into the mountainside with cliffs and dense jungle on all sides. Located at the confluence of three rivers, it remains largely untouched. Reaching it requires a demanding two-day trek, so prepare yourself properly: tent, water, sleeping bag, food, etc.

16. Enjoy an idyllic Getaway In Urubamba

Take a breather in a small town. Photo by Bob - stock.adobe.com

Escape the bustle of Cusco and treat yourself to a night or two of unwinding and spa treatments at some of the best hotels in the Sacred Valley. Many choose Urubamba as their base for day trips to nearby locations such as Pisac or Machu Picchu via train.

Whitewater rafting on the Urubamba River is also a popular thing to do in Peru. As you paddle through the Sacred Valley, you’ll pass by Ollantaytambo and other breathtaking sights. For a fun and manageable ride, go between April and October when the rapids are mild (class II and III).

17. Catch The Fortress Of Kuelap

While everyone flocks to Cusco, Kuelap stays refreshingly off the beaten path. Photo by nizo - stock.adobe.com

If you can never get enough of archaeological sites, check this one out. The massive walled city has over 400 buildings constructed by the Chachapoya civilisation. The easiest (and most scenic) way to reach Kuelap is via Peru’s first-ever cable car, a 20-minute ride with stunning valley views. Beats a sweaty uphill trek any day.

The ruins inside the fortress are impressive, but nothing compares to its towering walls, which reach nearly 20 metres high. Though often overlooked in favour of other pre-Columbian ruins, visiting Kuelap is definitely one of the most fascinating things to do in Peru.

18. Trek And Climb Misti Volcano

The view of the Misti Volcano. Photo by bchyla - stock.adobe.com

There’s no doubt that Peru offers plenty of great hikes and climbs. If you’re looking for something different from the Inca Trail or Lares, the Misti Volcano in southern Peru might be just what you need.

It’s definitely a challenge. Climbing to the summit means gaining at least 2,000 meters in elevation, and a lot of that is through loose volcanic sand. But don’t worry, you don’t need any special climbing skills. And those who make it to the top say the view is absolutely worth it.

19. Learn How To Cook Peruvian Cuisine

The entire country of Peru is a foodie paradise. Photo by ruslanita - stock.adobe.com

One of our favourite things to do in Peru is joining an authentic cooking class. In Lima, you can learn to make iconic Peruvian dishes like ceviche, causa, or cau cau. Or in Cusco, you can cook traditional Andean dishes using fresh market ingredients. SkyKitchen Peruvian or Luchito's are a great place to start with some great reviews. Peruvian cuisine is all about fusion, so don’t be afraid to combine different ingredients and experiment.

20. Immersive Into The Rainbow Mountain

To get here, start in Cusco and take a 2-3 hour car ride to Pitumarca. From there, make your way to Qesoyuno. This mountain, also known as Montaña de Siete Colores (Seven-Coloured Mountain), is also the second thing Peru is most known for just after Machu Picchu.

The best time to visit is between March and November or from June to August when the skies are clear and pleasant. Also, the morning light makes the best photos.

Set Out On A New Peruvian Adventure

Exploring the many things to do in Peru will captivate you with its breathtaking sceneries and inhabitants. From majestic mountains to vibrant cities, there is no one place in this amazing country which does not have a warm memory. So, get ready to experience a journey of discovering Peru! Don't miss using the CarbinZero Adventure Backpacks to enjoy a trouble-free trip!

Quyen Pham