The main tourist destinations in Peru, and how many nights should one stay in each.
These destinations can be combined in different ways, resulting in impressive trips.
Peru is a country with a multitude of stunning tourist destinations, and here we list them according to the frequency of visitation by foreign travelers, also indicating the recommended minimum stay in nights for each place.
Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley: This ancient Inca city is the most popular tourist destination in Peru. The recommended minimum stay is 3 to 4 nights to explore Machu Picchu and the nearby sites of the Sacred Valley, such as Ollantaytambo and Pisac, as well as Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.
Lima: The capital of Peru is a cosmopolitan city with a rich cultural and culinary offer. A stay of 2 nights is suggested to explore the main tourist attractions and enjoy the local cuisine.
Arequipa: Known as the "White City," Arequipa boasts impressive architecture and is close to the Colca Canyon. The recommended stay is 2 nights to explore the city and take an excursion to the canyon.
Puno and Lake Titicaca: The city of Puno is located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. A 2-night stay is suggested to visit the floating islands of Uros and Taquile Island.
Paracas and the Ballestas Islands: Paracas is a popular destination for observing marine life and visiting the Ballestas Islands. A stay of 1 to 2 nights is sufficient to take an excursion to the islands, enjoy the beaches, and even take a flight over the mythical Nazca Lines.
Iquitos and the Amazon: Iquitos serves as the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon rainforest. The recommended minimum stay is 3 nights to enjoy excursions into the jungle and observe wildlife, either from a lodge or a cruise.
Puerto Maldonado: Puerto Maldonado is a city located in the southern Amazon rainforest of Peru. It is an excellent starting point for exploring the Tambopata National Reserve and the Manu National Reserve. The recommended minimum stay is 3 nights to enjoy excursions in the jungle and observe the diverse fauna and flora.
The Moche Route: The Moche Route is an archaeological trail that includes significant pre-Inca sites on the northern coast of Peru, such as Trujillo, Chiclayo, and others. A suggested minimum stay of 2 to 3 nights is recommended to explore the archaeological complexes of Chan Chan, Huaca de la Luna, Lord of Sipán, and the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum, among others.
Chachapoyas: Chachapoyas serves as the gateway to the Amazonas region, known for its natural beauty and archaeological sites. A suggested minimum stay of 3 nights is recommended to explore Gocta Waterfalls, Kuélap Fortress, and other nearby attractions.
