From the colorful rainbow mountain to the turquoise waters of Lake Parón, here are the most amazing places you must see in Peru this year.

  • Kuélap, Chachapoyas

Machu Picchu is the most popular ruin in Peru, but it’s not the only one. Peru is full of amazing archeological treasures and the one that’s starting to get all the attention right now is Kuélap. The ancient fortress of Kuelap dates back to the sixth century A.D. Located 3000 meters above sea level, it was built by the Chachapoyas people as a defense against enemy tribes. It’s recent popularity can be explained by the construction of the cable car or Telecabinas that where built in 2017 to make it easier to access to the ruins.

  • Laguna Parón, Parque Nacional Huascarán

Located in the Huascaran National Park, Laguna Parón is an overwhelming lake that sits at 4.200 meters above the sea level. Surrounded by snowy peaks and with no tourists around makes a breath-taking postcard. You can hike around the lake or to the spectacular viewpoint. To get there fly from Lima to Huaraz, the “hiking capital of northern Perú”.

  • Oasis de Huacachima

Huacachima is a small town built in a beautiful natural oasis that sits in the middle of the desert. It’s huge sand dunes draw adrenaline junkies that are looking to do some sandboarding and buggy tours. It’s also a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway due to the beaches and vineyards around Ica, a city located 10 minutes from the oasis. If you like surfing, this is also a good option.

  • Laguna 69, Huaraz

Nestled in the Huascarán National Park this turquoise-colored lagoon is one of the most amazing sights around Huaraz. Framed by stunning snow-capped mountain it draws travelers not only for the lagoon but also because of the impressive hike to get there. Known as one of the most amazing scenic hikes of the word, the trail goes around the Cordillera Blanca, the world’s highest tropical mountain range. If you are going, you should know that the weather is unpredictable but totally worth it.

  • Millpu, Ayacucho

The stunning natural pools of Millpu in Ayacucho are the new hidden gems of Peru. Its strong turquoise color attracts photographers and travelers who are looking for a nice place to relax. The hike to get there is only 30 minutes long, and a very beautiful one full of flora and fauna. This water paradise is about 4 hours from Ayacucho by car which makes this a full day trip.

  • Montaña de 7 colores, Cusco

The Vinicunca Mountain, also known as the Rainbow Mountain, is one of the most incredible geological treasures in Peru. Its hills are painted in tones of red, lavender, gold and turquoise because of the minerals and erosion. Getting to the Rainbow Mountain is a bit of a challenge, not because of the trail, but because it’s located more than 4.000 meters above the sea. This beautiful spot is located in the path to Ausangate Mountain. To get to the starting point you can take a 3-hour ride from Cusco to Pampa Chiri where you start the walk.

  • Huacas del Sol y la Luna, Trujillo

This is the must-see archeological site in north-west Peru. The Temples of the Sun and the Moon built by the Moche civilization in the first century A.C. This dazzling sanctuaries where built as administrative and ceremonial centers long before the existence of the Incas. Located minutes away from the city of Trujillo, this Huacas (sacred place) are part of the Moche Route, that also includes the gigantic sand citadel Chan Chan; the museum where the mummy of Señora del Cao lies; and the sacred temple where the Señor de Sipán was found.

  • Parque Nacional Manu, Madre de Dios

The Manu National Park was named the World Cultural Heritage Site for being one of the greatest biodiversity areas in the world. Located in the departments of Madre de Dios and Cusco, is the only park in South America that covers the full range of environments from low tropical jungle to cold high grassland. As part of the Amazonia, is the home of hundreds of birds and mammals like the harpy eagle, the otorongo (Jaguar), the spider monkey and the deer. In the park you can camp, hike, navigate the rivers and of course watch the jungle fauna.

  •  Reserva Nacional Paracas

The Paracas National Reserve protects 330.000 hectares of tropical jungles, arid deserts, windy coastlines, huge cliffs, and beautiful beaches. Considered one of the most productive marine ecosystems in the world is also the home of a variety of birds like Humbolt penguins, cormorants, and pelicans. If in season, you can also spot dolphins and humpback whales.

  •  Máncora

 Peru is not precisely known for its beaches, but this one is the favorite spots for surfers in Southamerica. From November to February the climate is warm and the waves are perfect for beginners. The sun shines in this beach town all year long so you can lay and get suntanned whenever you want. It has a wide offer of accommodation from hostels to beautiful boutique hotels with infinity pools. 

BONUS!

Lago Humantay

Located only 3 hours from Cusco is the gorgeous Humantay lake. A beautiful body of water that calls the attention with its amazing turquoise tones. The hike, steeper than the one to the Rainbow Mountain, can be a little bit challenging if not in shape, but it pays. It’s 45 minutes – 1-hour hike at a medium pace. Don’t forget to take water and tons of sunscreen!