1. Explore the lost civilisations of the north
Compared to the honeypot sites of the south, Northern Peru is still relatively untouched by tourism. On this True Travel itinerary aimed at second or third-time travellers, you’ll discover archaeological sites and Indigenous history of the country’s lesser-visited northern sites. Starting in Lima, you’ll explore Americas’ oldest known city of Caral, the UNESCO-listed archaeological complex of Chan Chan, and the Tucum pyramids, among other important historic areas. Museums and guided tours allowing you to learn more about this complex civilisations. The culture-filled trip also dips into some of the country’s natural treasures, including the natural hot springs of Baños del Inca and the third highest waterfall in the world, Gocta Waterfall.
More information: Tailor-made. Departure between May-September. 13 days from £7,600pp (excluding flights). true.travel
2. Hike, cycle and raft through the highlights
Hiking isn’t the only way to explore the region of Cusco – although you can expect that too on this action-packed trip from Journey Latin America. Not only will you walk the Inca Trail up to the famous lost city of Machu Picchu, you’ll also be cycling through traditional farming land of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The trip ends with an adrenaline-filled rafting adventure through the Apurimac Canyon, tackling the energetic grade 2-4 rapids while surrounded by towering mountains. You’ll also have a chance to get to know capital of Lima, as well as the the traditional communities of Huilloc and Pumamarca on walking tours.
More information: 12 days from £3,600 pp (excluding flights). journeylatinamerica.com
Read next: 8 characterful stays in Cusco, Peru
3. Celebrate the Sun God at Inti Raymi
Inti Raymi is one of the most important events in the Peruvian cultural calendar, and on this special departure of Exodus’ Essential Peru trip, travellers will be able to experience this sacred festival first-hand. Cusco will be filled with dancing, music and processions, with locals dressing in traditional clothing as they celebrate the Incan Sun God, known as Inti. Another highlight for guests on this itinerary is visiting the island community of Amantani on Lake Titicana, which includes a traditional homestay with locals.
More information: Departing 18 June 2025 for 16 days from £3,095pp (excluding flights). exodus.co.uk
Read next: 5 things to know about Peru’s Inti Raymi Festival
4. Hit the road from the Andes to the Amazon
Emark on a self-drive adventure following the lead of guide Paul Boardman, an expert at getting off the tourist trail and into authentic Peru. Driving your own 4×4 vehicle on this Steppes overland adventure, you’ll follow roads into the mountains and along the Ticlio mountain pass, reaching heights up to 5,000 metres. Coming back down to earth, the landscape changes dramatically as you drive through the Nazca desert, before navigating the winding roads of the Amazon rainforest. Special moments include staying at a family-run haciendas and visiting culturally significant sights such as the Sondor Ruins and the Sayhuite stone.
More information: Departing March and October 2025, 15 days from £8,595 (excluding flights). steppestravel.com
5. Go trekking in the Cordillera Blanca mountains
The 128km Huayhuash circuit is one of Peru’s most rewarding treks. Lying in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range in Northern Peru, it’s often seen as one of the best alternative treks to the well-known Inca Trail. Join Andean Trails for a fully supported trip, including acclimatisation walks before you begin the epic route. Once you start the Huayhuash circuit, you’ll climb to altitudes of more than 5,100 metres, passing ice-covered peaks, glaciers, grasslands and lakes. Native flora and fauna can be spotted en route with the help of a knowledgeable guide.
More information: Departing 26 May, 15 July and 21 August with more dates to be added. 16 days from £2,190pp (flights excluded. andeantrails.co.uk
6. See Peru’s icons in style
For those after more of a luxury experience, this cazenove+loyd itinerary helps you get to see Peru’s headline acts in total comfort. Explore Lima and get a taste of its award-winning Peruvian cuisine before touring the Sacred Valley. You’ll then be boarding the luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham train up to Machu Picchu for a private tour of the ancient citadel. The trip continues onto Cuzco where you can wander its Inca stonework-lined streets and colonial architecture, before trying your hand at cooking up a Peruvian feast. Finally, take a relaxing boat excursion on Lake Titicana and meet the Uros-Aymara communities.
More information: Tailor-made. Departure between April and December. 12 days from £9,230pp (excluding flights). cazloyd.com
Read next: The 22 best new rail routes for 2025
7. Slow travel through Peru
Wanting a trip of a lifetime to Peru? Change down a gear on this slow travel itinerary from LiNGER. You’ll get to see all the headline acts such as Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and Rainbow Mountain, with time to spare to immerse yourself in it’s lesser-visited corners. Uncover pre-Incan cultures of the Moche, Chimu, and Chachapoya people in the north, head to the coast for epic sand dunes and an abundance of marine life, spot Andean condors at Colca Canyon, and dive into the Amazon jungle to see some of its most iconic critters – including sloths, monkeys, and colourful macaws. You’ll also get to roam the urban centres of Lima and Cusco, where world-class Peruvian cuisine awaits.
More information: Tailor-made. 25 days from £12,495pp (excluding flights). trips.linger.co.uk
