Inca Trail: When people think of Peru, they often picture the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. But there is so much more waiting off the beaten path. From remote highlands to river jungles, there are hidden places full of magic and culture.
In this article, we’ll explore five lesser-known wonders of Peru. These places will show you another side of the country, far from the crowds, and will let you connect with local life, nature, and history.
1. Arequipa: The White City at Volcano’s Feet
Arequipa is Peru’s second-largest city, surrounded by five volcanoes. One of them, El Misti, has a snow-capped peak that dominates the skyline. The city is known as the “White City” because many buildings are made of sillar — a white volcanic stone.
Key spots in Arequipa
- Plaza de Armas: The main square, with palm trees and elegant balconies.
- Basilica Cathedral: Made from sillar, it’s a grand neoclassical church.
- La Compañía de Jesús: Built in 1590 with detailed Baroque carvings that mix European and Indigenous styles.
- Monastery of Santa Catalina: A large walled area, almost like a small city inside the city.
- Santa Teresa Convent: Still active, it doubles as a living museum.
- CIRQA Relais & Châteaux: A boutique hotel that was once a 16th-century cloister — its stone walls and rooftop views are stunning.
In the local Mercado San Camilo, you’ll see piles of alpaca textiles, straw hats, herbs, and more than a thousand types of potatoes.
Nearby, Colca Canyon is one of the deepest gorges in the world. It plunges more than 11,110 feet and stretches over 60 miles.
Local food to try
- Rocoto relleno: A spicy pepper stuffed with meat and cheese.
- Camarones al estilo arequipeño: River crayfish in a hearty sauce or ceviche.
- Queso helado: A frozen dessert with cinnamon and coconut, hand churned in wooden barrels.
2. Yanque: Gateway to Colca’s Depths
To reach Yanque, you travel along winding mountain roads that rise above 16,000 feet. You’ll pass Inca-style terraces growing potatoes, quinoa, maize. National Geographic once called Yanque a “half-forgotten town.”
The real star near Yanque is Colca Canyon. Come early in the morning to Cruz del Cóndor, a lookout where you may see Andean condors soaring — their wingspan can be up to 10.5 feet.
Instead of leaving by midday, spend the night to feel the valley’s calm. Stay in places like Puqio, a luxury tented camp with canvas tents, fireplaces, and views that take your breath away.
3. Ayaviri & Tinajani Canyon
High in the Altiplano, not far from Ayaviri, lies Tinajani Canyon, about 13,123 feet above sea level. There are tall red sandstone formations that look otherworldly.
You might see Puya raimondii, a rare plant that blooms only once every 100 years. Locals say shamans once traveled here for ceremonies.
In a private reserve, you can stay in luxury tented lodges with wood floors and fireplaces. You can hike, drive around the Altiplano, or simply sit and watch nature shift through the day.
4. Lake Titicaca: Floating Islands and Living Culture
Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world, covering over 3,204 square miles. It glimmers under Andean peaks and is dotted with floating reeds and islands.
- Uros Islands: These are human-made islands built from totora reeds. The local families live here, weave their homes, and fish using traditional ways.
- Taquile Island: This island is known for its textile traditions. The people wear woven clothes that tell stories — hats and shawls show status and family ties.
- Stay at Titilaka for calm days. You can kayak, hike, swim, and in the evening, gaze at stars beside the lake.
5. Nauta: The Amazon’s Secret Gate
Deep in Peru’s northern jungle, in the Loreto region, lies Nauta — a riverside town where life revolves around water.
It sits near the meeting point of two major rivers, Marañón and Ucayali, which join to form the Amazon River. From the Malecón, the riverside promenade, you can board riverboats that go into the jungle.
One such cruise is by Delfin Amazon Cruises. They focus on sustainability and conservation. Their BioRest Program aims to protect biodiversity and support local communities.
On 3- or 4-night trips, they take you through flooded forests, help you spot pink river dolphins, monkeys, macaws, and guide you on night walks to hear frogs and insects.
Highlights of the 5 Destinations
| Destination | Main Attraction | Altitude / Depth | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arequipa | Colonial city & Colca Canyon | ~2,300 m above sea level | White stone architecture, bustling markets |
| Yanque | Condor sightings & canyon access | ~3,300–3,500 m altitude | Quiet town, deep gorges, remote atmosphere |
| Ayaviri / Tinajani | Red rock canyon, rare plants | ~4,000 m altitude | Puya raimondii, sacred energy, serenity |
| Lake Titicaca | Floating islands & cultural farming | ~3,812 m altitude | Uros reed islands, textile arts, turquoise water |
| Nauta | Amazon gateway & river tours | ~100 m above sea level | Jungle cruises, biodiversity, river life |
Inca Trail: If you want a trip that goes beyond the usual and leaves you with deeper memories, these five hidden gems in Peru are perfect.
You’ll walk in quiet valleys, meet people keeping ancient traditions alive, see landscapes that take your breath away, and feel how nature and culture blend. Skip the crowds, explore the remote, and experience Peru in a new light.
