What are the top activities in Peru?

Peru Marine Mammal Observation Tours

The Pacific Ocean off the coast of Peru supports a wide range of marine mammals and seabirds. Marine mammal observation tours take you into the ocean to search for a variety of incredible marine animals. Spot humpback whales off the coast of Máncora or photograph sea lions and Humboldt penguins at the Ballestas Islands. These tours are led by a competent captain and naturalist guide. You'll also enjoy views of the Peruvian coastline on these tours.

Peru Hiking Tours

The Peruvian landscape includes huge mountains, coastal lowlands, high plains, rainforests, and cloud forests. Not surprisingly, this is a great country for hiking. The following tours will get you on the trail with experienced and knowledgeable guides. You can enjoy mellow strolls through the Amazon Jungle or more strenuous ascents up the Andes Mountains. And during some hiking tours - most notably the ones along the Inca Trail - you'll pass ancient archaeological sites and famous Inca ruins.

Horseback Riding Tours in Peru

Whether you're an equestrian enthusiast or a first-time rider, these tours offer all travelers the chance to experience the Peruvian landscape on horseback. Horseback tours are led by professional guides and use well-trained (and well cared-for) horses. On a horseback tour, you might trot along Máncora Beach at sunset or cruise through the countryside outside Arequipa in the morning. Safety is prioritized and all participants will feel confident on their horse before the tour begins.

Archaeological Tours in Peru

Peru is an archaeologist's dream. The ruins of various cultures and civilizations are scattered across the entire country, many of which are well-preserved and intact. Archaeological tours bring travelers to these sites with a knowledgeable guide. As you explore the site, you'll learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the people who built these long-lasting structures.

Catamaran Tours in Peru

With the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, catamaran tours will have you feeling nice and coastal during your trip to Peru. On one of these tours, you'll board a catamaran and cruise through the Pacific Ocean. These tours often take place at sunset and provide you with the opportunity to spot marine mammals, including whales and dolphins.

Culinary & Peru Food Tours

Sweet corn, ceviche, and alpaca steaks — this is just a sample of the tasty food that you'll find in Peru. Gastronomy tours expose you to the culinary fabric of Peru. Each region has a unique flavor and cooking style, so the experience you have will depend on where you are. Take cooking classes in Lima and come home with a few new recipes. Wander through the produce markets in Cusco or reserve a table at the hottest restaurant in Arequipa (literally, since the food here is notoriously spicy). These tours will leave you licking your fingers and asking for more.

Peru Historic Tours

Peru has a fascinating history that includes the Inca empire, Spanish conquest, and independence. The following tours will explore some of this history. Led by a knowledgeable and engaging local guide, historic tours visit the monuments, structures, and sites associated with important historical events in Peru. Many sites are related to Spanish colonialism.

Rafting Tours in Peru

Ruins Tours in Peru

A number of important civilizations have existed in Peru. Today, the remnants of these cultures can be seen in the ruins they left behind. On these tours, you'll visit the country's best ruins, many of which have been conserved through careful restoration projects. Explore the temples, tombs, and pyramids to learn about the ancient people of Peru. Guides help you understand the meaning of structures and symbols to better grasp the significance of these amazing sites.

Peru Museum Tours

Peru has incredible museums and these tours will help you explore some of the best. Peruse Lima's Museo Nacional de Arqueología to see exhibits with Paracas textiles, Chimú gold, and other important archeological finds. In Chiclayo, explore the spectacular Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipán, which is shaped like a Moche pyramid and contains objects from a royal tomb. While touring one of Peru's museums, you'll learn a great deal about Peruvian history, archeology, culture, and more.

Shopping Tours in Peru

Peru's impressive artisans create a number of noteworthy handicrafts, including clothing, ceramics, and jewelry. On shopping tours, you'll have the chance to explore the country's best stores and markets to see what you can find. Search for wool sweaters and scarves in Arequipa, or find colonial-style ceramics and high-quality weavings in Cusco. You might even try your hand at bargaining to see if you can get a good deal on a pair of woven mittens.