Which cities to visit in Peru?
Are you going to Peru soon for a trip and wondering which cities you could visit and add to your itinerary? Do you have some hesitations and are looking for the best places? No worries, in this article I offer you a short overview of Peru, but above all the most beautiful cities to discover during your stay in this South American country!
Lima, the capital
The first city to see in Peru is of course Lima, the capital. This city will allow you to get a glimpse of Peruvian culture and visit its many museums. I also advise you to take a walk along the Malecon which offers a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean. You can also taste typical dishes such as ceviche or oranticucho.
Cusco, the ancient Inca capital
Cusco is a city located in southern Peru, about 3 hours by bus from Lima. This city is steeped in history since it was the former capital of the Inca empire. Cusco will amaze you with its buildings mixing European and Inca styles such as the famous Coricancha. Be sure to visit the Sacsayhuaman Fortress located on a hill just outside the town.
Puerto Maldonado, in the heart of the Amazon jungle
If you want to get a glimpse of the Amazon jungle and its biodiversity, I advise you to go to Puerto Maldonado. This city is located in southeastern Peru, near the border with Bolivia. Puerto Maldonado is the ideal starting point for exploring the jungle and enjoying activities such as hiking, rafting or canopy climbing.
Ica, for pisco
Ica is a town located south of Lima, near the Nazca Lines. This city is famous for its production of pisco, a typical Peruvian liquor. Ica is also the starting point for visiting the Huacachina oasis, surrounded by sand dunes. You can also take desert walks to see the Nazca Lines.
Arequipa, the white city
Arequipa is nicknamed “the white city” because of its buildings made of sillar, a white volcanic stone. This city is located in southern Peru, near Cusco and Lake Titicaca. Arequipa is worth visiting for its colonial buildings, but also for its nearby canyons and volcanoes.
Nazca, for the lines
Nazca is a city located in southwest Peru, near Ica. This city is famous for the Nazca Lines, large drawings made in the desert. These lines can only be seen from the air, so you’ll have to take a plane ride to see them.
Puno, for Lake Titicaca
Puno is a city located in southeastern Peru, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. This town is the starting point for visits to the Uros Islands, floating islands made of reeds. You can also take a boat ride to Taquile Island.
Agua Calientes
Agua Calientes or Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small village located near Machu Picchu. This village is the starting point for visits to the famous Inca site of Machu Picchu. Agua Calientes offers a wide range of accommodation and activities such as hiking, horseback riding or hot springs.
Huaraz, for hiking
Huaraz is a city located in the northwest of Peru, in the Cordillera Blanca. This town is the starting point for many hikes in the mountains. Huaraz is also worth visiting for its neighboring lakes, such as Lago 69 or Laguna Paron.
Trujillo, for its beaches
Trujillo is a city located on the northern coast of Peru. This town is famous for its nearby beaches such as Huanchaco, where you can practice surfing. Trujillo is also the starting point for visits to archaeological sites such as Chan Chan and Huaca del Sol y de la Luna.
And you, which cities do you recommend discovering while traveling in Peru?
