Five experiences beyond Machu Picchu you need to try in Peru
Whether you’re witnessing ancient traditions first-hand and walking on the waters of the world’s highest navigable lake, there’s more to explore in Peru.
Though it’s a destination that can be enjoyed year-round, travellers across the world are flocking to Peru at the moment, and for good reason. With its myriad of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, bustling inner cities, and spectacular alpine scenery, there’s a lot to love about this South American hotspot, and it’s perhaps easiest to explore in the early summer.
While it’s almost always Machu Picchu that tops travel wish-lists, you might be surprised to hear that there’s far more than just the ancient Incan wonders that you’ve got to experience at least once in Andean Peru. From the world’s first potato farms and centuries-old craft industries that are still thriving to this day to the innovative floating villages of Lake Titicaca, here are five things you won’t want to miss in Peru.
Five experiences you need to try in Peru
1. Watching local weavers at work in the Sacred Valley
As one of the strongest links to Peru’s ancient Incan heritage, the artisanal textile industries that still thrive in the Sacred Valley are a must-see on any Andean itinerary. These techniques have been mastered over the centuries and are still widely used to create the colourful ponchos, polleras and montera hats that remain staples at markets across the country. While in the Sacred Valley, take the time to visit some of the indigenous Quechua communities, from Chinchero to Ccaccaccollo, and watch as local women use the same backstrap looms as their ancestors. You might even be invited to give it a try yourself!
2. Exploring the humble home of the potato
Long before they even made it to Europe, more than 3,000 varieties of potato were being cultivated across Peru. Today, the humble tuber remains one of the country’s most important crops, and across the Andean towns of the Sacred Valley, you’ll find hundreds of terraced farms dedicated to it. With a tour of one of these vast layered gardens, you’ll witness the innovative solutions that helped the Incan civilisation thrive amongst the rugged mountain landscapes. Visit a traditional ‘potato park’ for a closer look at traditional Peruvian farming and be sure to try traditional chuno (freeze-dried potato) if you get the chance.
3. Visiting the floating villages of Lake Titicaca
Straddling the border with Bolivia at over 3,800 metres, Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest navigable lake and is a remarkable sight in its own right. The region’s true wonder, though, actually lies offshore. The Uros Islands, a cluster of floating platforms that continue to be hand-woven by the indigenous Uros people, are well worth a visit. Walking across the islands’ spongy surface and learning how the islanders have adapted to life on the water is as unique an experience as you’re likely to find in Peru.
4. Discovering Arequipa’s Baroque landmarks
Many travellers look past Arequipa in favour of the Incan capital of Cusco, but that’s actually a blessing in disguise. With fewer crowds and just as many breathtaking sights, the magnificent ‘White City’ is one of the spots that really does reward curiosity. Built almost entirely from ivory-white sillar stone, Arequipa has a distinctive architectural character unlike anywhere else in South America. The 16th-century Santa Catalina Monastery is an undeniable highlight, and you can meet the nuns who still live there as you explore its brightly painted alleyways. Elsewhere in Arequipa, there’s no better place to spend an afternoon than the Plaza de Armas, and its pavement-side cafés are perfect for soaking up the daily happenings of the city.
5. Soaking up the bustle of ancient Cusco
Once the capital of the Inca Empire, historic discoveries are never far away in breathtaking Cusco. From the city’s original Inca stonework, renowned for its extraordinary levels of precision, to the colonial landmarks that were imposed under Spanish rule, few places showcase Peru’s dramatic history quite like Cusco. Soak up the sights and sounds of San Pedro market, with its colourful cloth stalls and traditional street food vendors and perhaps pick up a poncho of your own to bring home. San Blas, a neighbourhood known for its steep cobbled streets and artisan workshops, is another must-see and is the perfect way to spend an afternoon.
Experience the wonders of Peru with Newmarket Holidays
Ready to explore beyond Machu Picchu? If you’re keen to take in the treasures of the ancient Incas yourself or have more questions about this magnificent South American nation, give our friendly holiday planners a call today. If you’re dreaming of a holiday somewhere else across the globe, we also have a broad range of escorted tours, spanning six continents, and you can browse them all on our dedicated destinations page.
