Things to do in Peru

Discover the wonders of Peru, from the legendary Inca Trail—where ancient stone pathways wind through breathtaking Andean landscapes to the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu—to a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Peru is home to some of the world’s highest mountains, deepest canyons, and fascinating heritage that spans thousands of years.

Panoramic view of Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan citadel nestled among green mountains under dramatic blue skies with wispy clouds.

Things to do and see

Experiences that define Peru
Blue and yellow PeruRail train car stopped at a station platform with mountains in the background.

Explore Machu Picchu by train

Visiting Machu Picchu by train is one of the most scenic and stress-free ways to experience Peru’s iconic ancient citadel. The journey from Cusco or the Sacred Valley winds along the breathtaking Urubamba River, passing through lush cloud forests, towering mountains, and traditional Andean villages. Traveling by train not only offers comfort and convenience but also maximizes your time at Machu Picchu, allowing you to arrive refreshed and ready to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you choose the luxury Hiram Bingham train, the panoramic Vistadome, or a budget-friendly option, a train trip to Machu Picchu combines spectacular scenery, cultural immersion, and unforgettable memories, making it a must-do for any Peru travel itinerary.

  • Scenic and Stress-Free Travel: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Urubamba River, cloud forests, and Andean villages without the hassle of hiking or driving.

  • Comfort and Convenience: Trains provide a relaxing journey, letting you arrive refreshed and ready to explore Machu Picchu.

  • Flexible Options for Every Traveler: From luxury Hiram Bingham to panoramic Vistadome or budget-friendly trains.

Hikers with backpacks at the entrance sign for Camino Inka-Inka Trail in Peru, surrounded by mountainous landscape.

Trek the Inca Trail

A tour of Peru’s iconic Inca Trail is more than just a hike — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience. The moment you step through the Sun Gate and catch your first glimpse of the ancient city of Machu Picchu, you’ll understand why this trek is so legendary. The journey itself is equally unforgettable: a four-day trek through lush cloud forests, high Andean mountain passes, and ancient Inca stone paths, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a deep connection to Inca history. It’s both a physical and mental challenge, but the reward is transformative.

Why Choose the Inca Trail with G Adventures:

  • Expert local guides with historical insights

  • Small group experiences for a personal touch

  • Safety, comfort, and unforgettable cultural immersion

Two women in a thatched market stall with traditional textiles; one in colorful Peruvian dress showing handcrafted items to a visitor.

Visit Peru’s Sacred Valley

Set in the heart of the Andean Highlands, Peru’s Sacred Valley was the agricultural, spiritual, and political center of the Inca Empire, making it a treasure trove of archaeological sites and ancient ruins. This stunning region is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and adventurous travelers alike. Explore the ancient terrace towns of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray, each nestled within breathtaking Andean landscapes that make hiking and sightseeing irresistible. The Sacred Valley offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage, panoramic scenery, and unforgettable exploration in the heart of Peru.

Elevated treehouse with thatched roof connected by a long suspension bridge through lush tropical jungle foliage.

Journey into the Amazon Jungle

Explore the Amazon Rainforest in Peru with an unforgettable canoe journey deep into the jungle, where you’ll spend several days immersed beneath the dense rainforest canopy. Led by expert naturalist guides, these guided Amazon tours reveal some of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. The Amazon Riverboat Adventure offers daily river excursions with frequent stops to explore the jungle up close. Discover the rich culture and traditions of communities within the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, one of Peru’s top wildlife destinations. Experience thrilling night safaris in areas like Piranha Creek, where the rainforest comes alive after dark.

Person with scarf looking across vast golden sand dunes under clear blue sky at sunset.

Sandboarding in Huacachina

Looking for a unique adventure in Peru? Head to Huacachina, a stunning desert oasis for sandboarding and dune buggy experiences. Unlike surfing or snowboarding, sandboarding offers all the thrill without the cold or constant wipeouts in water—just climb the towering dunes, strap in, and ride down endless waves of sand. Best of all, falls are making it a fun and beginner-friendly activity. If sandboarding isn’t your style, exploring the dunes by high-speed buggy is just as exhilarating. For the ultimate coastal adventure, the Peru Coast: Seafood, Sandboarding & Dune Buggies tour takes you straight to Huacachina’s golden dunes. 

  • No Experience Needed: Sandboard down towering dunes or race through the desert in a dune buggy — fun for beginners and adrenaline junkies alike.

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures: G Adventures takes you straight to Huacachina’s golden desert oasis, where every moment is Instagram-worthy.

  • All-in-One Local Experience: Adventure, culture, and local flavors combined

Traditional reed boat on Lake Titicaca approaching floating islands made of totora reeds, with mountains in background.

Float on the islands of Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake, is one of Peru’s most remarkable wonders and a must-visit destination for cultural and adventure travellers. Located high in the Andes, this iconic lake is home to the floating Uros Islands—handcrafted from reeds by the indigenous Uros people over 500 years ago as a way to escape the Inca Empire. Today, more than a thousand people live on these man-made islands, preserving ancient traditions and offering a unique glimpse into Peru’s living cultural heritage.