Top five things to do in Peru

Peru's remarkable diversity might leave you unsure about how to make the most of your trip. To help you, we have compiled a convenient bucket list of activities to experience the wide array of offerings in the country. Whether you are exploring the lush jungle or the arid desert, this list in no particular order will undoubtedly aid you in planning your journey.

Hiking Rainbow Mountain

Rainbow Mountain is a geological beauty, a tapestry of colours spread across a mountain range that feels like a natural work of art. Situated 5,000 metres above sea level, it can be a strenuous hike, even though most of it is a fairly flat walk. The altitude is no joke, but with proper acclimatization, it’s absolutely doable. We were sponsored for tour through GetYourGuide and can't recommend it enough. Our guide was amazing, making sure everyone felt okay with the altitude on the way up. He carried two cans of oxygen with him, but I don't think anyone needed it—though it's reassuring to know it's there just in case. The views once you get to the top are nothing short of spectacular. The rainbow-like stripes of mineral deposits are breathtaking, especially when contrasted with the deep blue sky. Once you're up there, you also have the option to walk across to the Red Valley for an additional 30 soles. This money goes directly to the community that lives in the surrounding area, and if you're not too tired, I can definitely recommend it. The Red Valley is a vastly different landscape that looks like it's from another planet, with its striking red hues and rugged terrain, offering a stark contrast to the colorful Rainbow Mountain. Use our affiliate link to see what tours are available!

Get your Guide Rainbow Mountain

A Stay in the Amazon Jungle

For us, the perfect way to start your trip in Peru is with a few nights in the depths of the Amazon jungle. This bucket list item might not be for everyone, but if you're up for the experience, the Amazon is sure to not let you down. Imagine waking up to the sounds of monkeys in the distance and the vibrant calls of exotic birds as the mist lifts from the river. Fishing for piranhas in the after just going for a swim is a surreal experience, but one I can highly recommend. There’s nothing quite like seeing animals in their natural habitat, and the vast amount of wildlife in the Amazon jungle means you're sure to encounter something fascinating. Whether it's the almost blind pink river dolphins swimming alongside your boat as you head to your lodge, or spotting a three-toed sloth slowly climb down a tree next to you whilst you're having breakfast, the Amazon offers a unique connection to nature. Don't miss out on a night-time expedition either, where you'll see the jungle come alive with nocturnal creatures, from the glow of fireflies to the distinct whooping of bull frogs.

Exploring Machu Picchu

What trip to Peru is complete without seeing Machu Picchu? We’ve written a concise blog detailing how we visited Machu Picchu twice in one day. The ancient city of the Inkas is probably one of my favourite wonders of the world. Perched high in the Mountains, surrounded by steep, green peaks and often shrouded in mist, Machu Picchu is a sight to behold. The history here is as rich as the landscape is dramatic, with archaeologists still uncovering new details about its origins and purpose. Walking through the stone pathways, exploring the terraces and temples, and taking in the panoramic views when climbing Huayna Picchu it is an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left. It’s a perfect destination if you only have a few days in Peru, but make sure you book early in advance because tickets sell out fast.

Read our Post about Machu Picchu

Experiencing the Deserts of Peru

Peru has so many different environments that you can be trekking through dense jungle one day and sandboarding down vast dunes the next. The deserts of Peru offer a stark and beautiful contrast to the lush Amazon and towering Andes. Huacachina, a small oasis town completely surrounded by sand dunes, is a must-visit for any desert adventure. Here, you can go sandboarding or take a dune buggy ride across the seemingly endless sands, with the wind in your hair and nothing but golden sand stretching out before you. The sunsets in the desert are something else—watching the sky turn vibrant shades of orange and pink as the sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the dunes, is a memory you'll cherish. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider spending a night under the stars in the desert.

Have a Mountain Experience

We stayed with Mountain View Experience, which is a bit expensive but absolutely worth it. Waking up to the sun rising over the Andes as llamas walk past your hot tub is priceless. There's something so serene and peaceful about being high up in the mountains, surrounded by nature and away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The lodge offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, and the crisp mountain air is invigorating. If you're into hiking, there are plenty of trails to explore, ranging from gentle walks to more challenging treks, alternatively take a horse around the trails surrounding the lodge, definitely bring a camera for some amazing pictures. After a day of exploring, there's nothing better than soaking in the hot tub, watching the sunset paint the mountains in shades of pink and purple. Even if you're not a morning person, waking up early to watch the sunrise is an absolute must. The way the first light of day gradually illuminates the mountains and valleys below is incredible . If you're lucky, you might even spot some local wildlife, such as condors soaring above or vicuñas (Perus National animal) grazing nearby.