A Cultural & Culinary Journey Through Peru: From Coastal Lima to the High Andes

Check into this modern, clean hotel in Miraflores. It features filtered water stations on each floor, a rooftop terrace, and offers a complimentary welcome pisco sour upon arrival.

A beloved local institution open 24/7. Warm up with their famous Sopa Criolla, a comforting beef broth soup with smoky peppers, tomatoes, and a splash of evaporated milk.

The historic heart of Lima, protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the beautiful colonial architecture, the grand Basilica, and the Government Palace.

Take a fascinating tour beneath the historic Franciscan Monastery to explore the catacombs, which served as Lima's main cemetery during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Savor exceptionally fresh seafood here. Start with a shot of Leche de Tigre (ceviche curing juice), then try the classic ceviche, chaufa (fried rice), or lomo saltado.

An impressive pre-Inca adobe pyramid built by the Lima civilization between 200 and 400 AD. It stands as a striking historical contrast in the middle of modern Miraflores.

Experience world-class Nikkei cuisine, a unique Japanese-Peruvian fusion. The creator highly recommends trying the truffle salmon nigiri, smoked trout maki, and the signature 48-hour marinated black cod.

A trendy bakery and cafe in the artistic Barranco neighborhood. Indulge in their famous flan cruffin or order a savory arepa eggs benedict.

Stroll down the street-art-lined Bajada de Baños passage in Barranco to reach this scenic public beach, perfect for watching local surfers and enjoying the ocean breeze.

A legendary Lima institution operating since 1960. Try their iconic chicharron sandwich, loaded with slow-roasted pork, sweet potato, and red onion on crunchy bread.

A beautiful, mosaic-walled park perched on the cliffs of Miraflores. It features a massive sculpture of two lovers kissing and offers spectacular sunset views over the Pacific.

Explore Lima's largest market on a guided food tour. Sample unique local fruits like granadilla and lucuma, try fresh market ceviche, and learn about traditional Andean remedies.

Wander through South America's largest Chinatown, located just outside the Central Market. Stop at a local stall to try authentic Chifa (Peruvian-Chinese fusion) like siu mai.

A lively park in Miraflores famous for its friendly resident cats. Stop by the popular Picarones Mary stall to try traditional sweet potato and squash donuts drizzled in sweet syrup.

Check into this charming boutique hotel nestled in the hills of the historic center. It offers comfortable rooms, included breakfast, and is a short walk from the main plaza.

Join a walking history tour starting at the main plaza. Marvel at the incredible dry-stone Incan masonry that forms the indestructible foundations of the colonial buildings.

A quieter, more local alternative to San Pedro Market. Grab a budget-friendly lunch of empanadas (try the aji de gallina or alpaca lomo saltado) and a sweet quinoa cookie.

Explore the artistic San Blas neighborhood. On Saturdays, the plaza hosts a vibrant artisan market where local creators sell handmade sweaters, bags, and jewelry.

A cozy, woman-owned specialty coffee shop that sources high-quality beans directly from female farmers throughout the Andes.

Explore the high-altitude agricultural terraces of Chinchero. Afterward, visit a local textile cooperative to learn how Quechua women naturally dye and weave alpaca wool.

Marvel at over 4,500 salt pans built into the mountainside, which have been hand-harvested by local families since pre-Inca times.

An extraordinary Incan agricultural laboratory featuring concentric circular terraces designed to test crops across different microclimates.

Climb the massive stone terraces to the Temple of the Sun. Staying overnight in the village allows you to enjoy the ruins in the late afternoon when the crowds have gone.

A cozy, highly rated, and affordable guesthouse in the heart of Ollantaytambo, perfect for resting before your train journey.

Board the Peru Rail Vistadome train for a scenic 2-hour ride to Aguas Calientes. The train features panoramic windows and an open-air observatory car.

The base town for Machu Picchu. Secure your bus tickets the evening before your visit, and enjoy a local trout dinner in town.

The crown jewel of Peru. Book Circuit 2A for the classic postcard view and an up-close exploration of the sacred stone ruins. Remember to bring your physical passport.

Board a comfortable Cruz del Sur bus from Lima to Paracas. The 3.5-hour journey is smooth and features reclining seats.

Check into this gorgeous boutique hotel right on the ocean in Paracas. It offers complimentary kayaks, paddleboards, and a beachfront porch.

Board a morning boat tour to the Ballestas Islands. You'll spot Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph.

Explore the dramatic desert-meets-ocean landscapes. You can book dune buggy or ATV tours to see the red sand beaches and coastal vistas.

South America's only natural desert oasis, surrounded by towering golden sand dunes. Rent a paddleboat to explore the lagoon.

A highly rated hostel with a great pool and social scene, though it features a lively party vibe with loud music until late.

Take a thrilling dune buggy ride through the desert and try sandboarding down the massive dunes before watching a spectacular sunset.

Take a scenic flight in a small plane to view the mysterious Nazca Lines from above. Take motion sickness precautions as the plane makes sharp turns.