Sites in Peru to See Beyond Machu Picchu

As one of the amazing wonders of the world and a bucket-list adventure for many, Machu Picchu is a must-see. But there are so many other places in Peru to explore, from the dense jungles to ancient archeological sites, stunning coastlines to indulgent cuisine. Here are some of the best sites in the country beyond Machu Picchu:

Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Yes, it is the gateway to Machu Picchu, but there is so much to see and explore in the Sacred Valley. From the Ollantaytambo archeological site, one of the last strongholds of the Incas, to the salt pans of Maras and the Moray amphitheater, the area is home to fertile farmlands and Spanish colonial villages. Make sure to also spend time in the town of Cuzco itself and at San Pedro Market to sip fresh juices and learn about Peruvian produce like purple corn and quinoa.

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Huacachina

This small village is built around a small oasis surrounded by palm trees and sand dunes. Just a few hours south of Lima near the city of Ica, not only is this city a visual marvel, but it is also an adventurer’s playground. Paddleboat out onto the lagoon or go for a ride on a dune buggy on the surrounding sand dunes. You can even go sandboarding on specially crafted wooden boards.

Ballestas Islands

A group of small islands in the Ica region on the south coast of Peru, take a two-hour boat tour from the resort town of Paracas to get here. The islands are a wildlife haven with a diversity of birds and marine creatures like Humboldt penguins, Guanay cormorants and sea lions.

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Lake Titicaca

As the highest navigable lake above sea level, go off the grid 12,000 feet above sea level. Explore the floating islands of Uros and make your way to Taquile, where women weave and men knit. The highlight of your stay is a homestay with an indigenous family on Amantani island to truly connect with and appreciate the land and breathtaking scenery.

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Tarma

The city in the Andes mountains of central Peru is nicknamed “The Pearl of the Andes” and offers everything from ruins to caves, waterfalls to adobe buildings, just a short distance to the jungle. Home to South America’s deepest cave, other popular attractions include Plaza de Armas and Baños Termales de Huajal.