It is easy to see why Peru makes it to the top of many travelers bucket list.  Peru is a country rich with culture and history, the food is outstanding, it has one of the Seven Wonders of the World and many other UNESCO World Heritage sites.

We loved riding horses through the Sacred Valley, climbing Huana Piccu and exploring the markets.

Cost-wise, Peru is relatively inexpensive, though that depends on your accommodations.

This Travel Guide hopefully inspires your next vacation.

Top 6 Experiences in Peru

1. Visit Machu Picchu

Visit the lost city of Machu Picchu.  Get there early in the morning and enjoy the sunrise. Machu Picchu is one of the new Wonders of the World and it does not disappoint.  To see the sun rise over the ancient city and explore the ruins is a highlight whether you arrive by train, bus or hike.

2. Climb Huayna Picchu

The mountain behind Machu Picchu is named Huayna Piccu.  The climb is really a strenuous hike, but it does involve steep drops and if you are afraid of heights, this climb is probably not for you.  There is a restriction on the number of people allowed to climb and it is broken into two groups:  The 7AM and the 10AM. 

If you want to see Machu Picchu like few others, climb Huayna Picchu.  Kati and I did it and loved it.  It was the highlight of the trip.

3. Explore the Sacred Valley

Hire a driver and car from your hotel in Cuzco and explore the Sacred Valley including the Ollantaytambo Ruins, Salineras de Maras, Moray and Pisac Ruins.  Check out some markets along the way.

4. Enjoy Cusco

Cusco was once capital of the Inca Empire, and it’s influence will be all around you.  Check out the archaeological remains and Spanish colonial architecture. Plaza de Armas is the central square in the old city, with arcades, carved wooden balconies and Incan wall ruins.

In the northern part of the city, see the Saqsaywaman which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  It is an old citadel and is at an altitude of over 12,000 feet above sea level.

5. See the Nazca Lines

The Nazca lines are a group of geoglyphs in southern Peru. The best way to get there is by bus, or hire a driver in Lima through your hotel.

Once there, take a flight over to see them, or to save money go up the observation tower.

There are many other pre-Inca historical attractions in the area to round out your two days here.

6. Explore the Amazon

Head to Iquitos, Peru and experience the Amazon.  We took a dug out canoe down the Amazon and met with some tribes that had very little contact with outside people.

Also, see Belem, the Peruvian floating city.  This is nothing like Venice, Italy or any other place in the world.  The extreme poverty and unhygienic conditions will give you a first hand look at a unique indigenous culture in Peru.