Peru is a large country, full of fascinating sites to be seen and adventures to be taken. Because of its size, many people end up focusing on destinations in the south of Peru as this is where Machu Picchu is located. Therefore, in choosing four must see destinations, this focuses on those found in that area although there are a number of others to be found in the north.
Bear in mind that it can take some time to travel between each of them so that needs to be taken into consideration when making your itinerary. You’ll need to be sure to find out about transportation schedules as there may only be one bus per day, for example.
Machu Picchu
There’s no doubt that the most important destination in Peru is Machu Picchu. This ancient citadel of the Incas has been named a world wonder and is the best place to get a feel for the architectural skill and prowess of the ancient civilization. Set on top of a mountain in lush high jungle, the location can be appreciated as much for the surrounding natural beauty as for the impressive archaeological site.
It’s not possible to drive to Machu Picchu. Your choices are to either take the train or to trek there. With advance booking, it’s possible to do the 2-day Inca Trail which includes just one day of easy hiking. Other treks of varying lengths and difficulties are also options. Traveling from Cusco by train will take about four hours total, including the time for transport to the station. It’s ideal to take the train the night before and overnight in Aguas Calientes, also called Machu Picchu Pueblo, so that you can visit the site early the next morning before the crowds arrive.
The starting point for reaching Machu Picchu, by train or trek, is always Cusco. Be sure to leave yourself a few days for exploring this ancient capital of the Inca empire. It offers a unique combination of Inca and colonial Spanish architecture with many sites to see.
Lake Titicaca
From Cusco, you can head to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. This is the highest navigable lake in the world and a favored destination for experiencing the life of the native people. To get there, you can fly to Juliaca or take the bus. There is a tourist bus service that adds hours to the trip but includes stops at a few sites along the way as well as a buffet lunch. This service is now offered by Cruz del Sur, a luxury bus company, making it a really comfortable way to travel.
If you take the tourist bus service, you’ll arrive in Puno in the evening and will overnight there. There’s not much to see in Puno itself but, depending on how active you’ve been before this, you might want a day to regroup before heading to the lake itself. Trips on the lake will normally start early in the morning. The typical tour is two days and includes a night stay with a local family. Taking this tour will allow you some insight to how the people live although it is a bit touristy in feel. There are other less commercial tours where you can go to less traveled areas. Although you can get a boat on your own, it may be best to use an agency so that a homestay can be arranged for you.
