Peru Travel Guide

Plaza de Armas is the main central plaza surrounded by colonial buildings, the cathedral, and traditional arcades. Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) is the most important Incan temple dedicated to the sun god Inti with impressive stonework. San Pedro Market is a traditional market selling fresh produce, local foods, and handicrafts in the heart of the city. Sacsayhuamán ruins are massive Incan stone fortifications on a hillside overlooking Cusco with precision-cut construction. Cusco Cathedral is a Spanish colonial cathedral built on Incan foundations blending indigenous and European architectural styles.

Main citadel entry is accessing the central archaeological complex with temples, plazas, and structures showcasing Incan architecture and engineering. Huayna Picchu hike (separate ticket, book early) is a steep trail ascending to a hilltop temple with panoramic views of the citadel and valley. Sun Gate viewpoint is a scenic overlook reached by hiking where visitors view the sunrise or sunset over Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu Pueblo town is the base settlement with hotels, restaurants, and shops for visitors exploring the archaeological site.

Pisac market & ruins is a traditional market selling crafts and produce alongside Incan archaeological terraces on a mountainside. Ollantaytambo fortress is a massive Incan stronghold with impressive stone construction and agricultural terraces demonstrating advanced engineering. Chinchero weaving villages showcase traditional textile production where indigenous artisans create colorful fabrics using ancestral techniques. Moray agricultural terraces are circular terraced platforms built by the Incas believed to be an agricultural laboratory experimenting with crops. Maras salt mines are pre-Incan salt ponds still harvested today creating a distinctive white landscape with traditional evaporation methods.

Miraflore's coastal walk is a scenic promenade along Pacific cliffs with parks, restaurants, and ocean views overlooking the water. Barranco neighbourhood is a bohemian district with colorful colonial buildings, street art, galleries, and vibrant nightlife. Larco Museum is an art museum displaying pre-Columbian artifacts, colonial art, and contemporary works in a historic mansion. A ceviche lunch is dining on Peru's iconic seafood dish of raw fish cured in citrus and spices. Historic centre (Plaza Mayor) is the main colonial plaza surrounded by government buildings and the cathedral.

Uros floating islands are artificial islands constructed from totora reeds where indigenous communities live and maintain traditional lifestyles. Taquile Island is a traditional island community known for textile weaving and preserving Quechua culture and customs. Puno waterfront is the main lakeside town offering views, restaurants, and access to island excursions. Traditional boat crossing is traveling across the high-altitude lake by motorized or sailing vessels experiencing the vast alpine waters and surrounding mountain landscapes.