Peru is the most popular destination in South America for travelers from the U.S. Almost everyone flies into Lima, but the capital city doesn’t offer much for the visitor. A day in the colonial center of Lima is usually enough for most people. One specific stop in Lima that should be on everyone’s itinerary is the catacombs under the San Francisco monastery and church. The catacombs were rediscovered in the 1950s and contain the bones of more than 70,000 people.
It’s not that Lima is a bad city to visit. It’s just that there is so many more interesting and exciting places to see in Peru. Let’s review some of the great places to visit in Peru.
Cusco
Arguably, Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca empire high up in the Andes, is the most enchanting place in all of South America. Cusco (often spelled Cuzco) has so much charm and romance that it almost seems unreal, like a movie set, but Cusco is still very authentic. Surrounded by mountains, Cusco is at an elevation of 11,000 feet. Altitude sickness is a real concern at this height and all travelers to Cusco should plan two or three extra days to adjust to the altitude since altitude sickness is a serious and potentially fatal illness.
The hilly, cobblestone streets lined with old buildings, some that have stonework dating back to the time of the Incas, are a joy to explore. Cusco is an excellent place to buy fabrics woven from alpaca and wool such as ponchos, blankets, bags, and sweaters. And, without a doubt, while wandering around the streets of Cusco you will encounter Peruvians walking around in traditional dress guiding a llama. These women and children are great photo opportunities but they do expect a monetary tip if you take their photograph. After all, that’s the only reason they’re still dressed that way.
Cusco is the base for exploring many Inca ruins in the adjoining valleys and mountains. But none is more thrilling than Machu Picchu, one of the last cities of the Inca empire. Hidden high among the mountains, Machu Picchu was not discovered until 1911 and is now considered to be one of the great wonders of the ancient world.
From Cusco you can arrive at Machu Picchu either by taking a train or by hiking the Inca Trail. Both routes have something to offer. The Inca Trail is a multiday excursion that will take you through wonderful wilderness. The trail itself is not too strenuous and can be done by anyone in fairly decent shape. The train is, of course, a quicker, more relaxing journey that also transports you through majestic scenery. Even if you hike the Inca trail to Machu Picchu, you’re likely to take the train back to Cusco.
If you take the train, be sure to buy your tickets at least one or two days earlier and be sure to take your passport with you to the train station when you buy your tickets since the ticket agents will ask to see your passport. Even though you’re not leaving the country, checking the passport is a formality performed by the ticket agent and you don’t want to have to rush back to the hotel after standing in line for a couple of hours to get the tickets.
Plan on spending the entire day at Machu Picchu. Even if the weather is pouring rain, Machu Picchu is still an extraordinary experience. Machu Picchu is one of those rare places where you really don’t mind standing out in the rain since the location is so awe inspiring.
Peru is filled with other great places but any first-time visitor to Peru should definitely focus on Cusco and Machu Picchu.
