Destinations

Get ready to be swept away—both by Cusco’s rich culture and, well, the altitude! At 3,400 meters (11,200 feet) above sea level, the city immediately feels magical, though it might just be the lack of oxygen playing tricks on you. Nestled in the heart of the Andes, Cusco is surrounded by majestic  mountains, winding rivers, and sacred valleys that once formed the heart of the Incan Empire. Once the grand capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco remained a stronghold of Andean civilization until the 16th-century Spanish conquest. In recognition of its immense historical and cultural significance, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1983.

Nestled beneath the majestic El Misti volcano, Arequipa stands as one of Peru’s most picturesque cities and its second-largest urban center. Known as the “White City” for its stunning colonial architecture built from white volcanic stone, Arequipa offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its historical center has earned UNESCO World Heritage status, celebrated for its unique architecture that blends Spanish colonial influences with indigenous elements. With its charming plazas, vibrant markets, and stunning views, Arequipa is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the heart of southern Peru.

Nazca holds one of humanity’s greatest mysteries: the Nazca Lines. Created thousands of years ago, much about their purpose and construction remains unknown to this day. Beyond these enigmatic geoglyphs, Nazca is steeped in history and ancient culture, offering plenty to explore and discover.

Just a little over an hour from Paracas, you’ll find Ica and Huacachina—two incredible destinations that make for the ultimate one-day trip before heading to your next stop, whether that’s Nazca or Cusco. Both can be explored in a single day, and trust us, they’re worth it. This will be one of the most memorable parts of your trip! Maybe you haven’t heard of Ica before, but what about Huacachina? I bet you’ve seen a picture of this place somewhere—probably on Instagram or in one of those articles titled “10 Hidden Gems You Need to Visit in your 20s” or “Places So Surreal You’ll Think You’re in a Movie”. Huacachina is a tiny village built around a stunning desert oasis, a real-life mirage in the heart of the Ica desert. While the lagoon is no longer entirely natural like it once was, the magic of this place is still very much alive.

After thoroughly exploring Lima, we were eager to dive deeper into Peru’s diverse landscapes. Our next destination was Paracas, a coastal town popular among locals for holidays. While small, Paracas offers a variety of activities that can be enjoyed over 1-2 days.

Peru’s capital, Lima, is a vibrant city and the only South American capital that faces the Pacific Ocean. Surprisingly, it’s a great spot for surfing, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even paraglide over the coastline for the best city views from the Miraflores district. Many see Lima as just another bustling capital or a quick stopover on the way to Machu Picchu, but if you have the time, we strongly recommend staying a few days to experience it for yourself. Stroll through its historic streets, explore its lively neighborhoods, and, most importantly, indulge in its world-renowned cuisine—you won’t regret it! Now, let’s get straight to the good stuff—our top recommendations on what to do, what to see, and, most importantly, where to eat!