The Machu Travel Peru team believes that traveling is truly one of life’s greatest pleasures. It is the perfect catalyst for happiness. And happiness is only real when it’s shared, right? So why not bring some friends, have a great time together, and create tons of vacation memories? It would be more than fun! But where to go on vacation with friends? To answer this question we have prepared a short article.
Peru has a lot to offer, and you will find activities for all audiences. From walking through the different Inca trails to taking a buggy tour through the desert dunes. You can even explore the vibrant Amazon, one of the most remote areas in the world. There are many different ecosystems, landscapes and climates to know and experience. So deciding where to go can be a bit difficult, but don’t feel stressed. Our team will provide you with information on the best activities that you and your friends can do for fun-filled, inspiring, and unforgettable tours in Peru. They will allow you to experience the natural and cultural wonders of our fascinating country.
Some of the best destinations to enjoy on vacation with friends
- Inca Trail
- Rainbow Mountain
- Huacachina
- Amazon river cruise
- Ballestas Islands
- The Sacred Valley of the Incas
- The Nazca Lines
INCA TRAIL
The Machu Picchu trek along the Inca Trail attracts thousands of travelers from all over the world. This trail is a spectacular network of ancient Inca trails. Many of these meander through snow-capped Andean mountains, rivers, and sublime landscapes. In fact, the Inca Trail is one of the most iconic treks in the world. Since it was, during the Inca period, the main entry point to Machu Picchu. This rugged hike will take you through the spectacular landscape of the Andes for three days to see the sunrise over the famous citadel on the fourth day. Machu Picchu with its ancient ruins, deep jungle, and perfectly sculpted stones delight and surprise everyone. There are many things to know before traveling to Peru, especially if you are going to undertake the Inca Trail.
Definitely, the Inca Trail is a highlight of any trip through South America. The Inca Trail is a destination available throughout the year. But it requires booking in advance because its availability is limited to 500 permits per day. Therefore, the best time to hike the Inca Trail will depend on your preferences. The Peruvian Andes have two seasons: the dry season, from April to October, and the wet season, from November to March. We recommend that you obtain clear information and decide which season is best for you! Just keep in mind that the Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance work.
RAINBOW MOUNTAIN
When you think “Where to go on vacation with friends?” Have you ever thought of a multi-colored mountain in the Peruvian Andes? Rainbow Mountain is also known as Vinicunca. It is considered the second most visited attraction in Peru after Machu Picchu. This popular day hike will take you through local villages, towering Andean peaks, glistening mountain streams, and striking red rocks. Its name comes from the different natural pigments in its rocks that make it look like a rainbow. During the summer the colors look brighter!
This popular day hike is one of the many attractions that you cannot miss if you plan to visit Cusco. Due to very complex geomorphological processes, you can appreciate the different colors that appear in the mountain. This appeal is actually quite new and this is due to global warming. Previously there were glaciers that covered Rainbow Mountain. Today, it is one of the best attractions to visit. After finishing your hike, it may be a good idea to recharge with some of the Peruvian street food options. In Cusco, you will find many alternatives.
HUACACHINA
The coastline of Peru is not the only geographical feature to know. Peru has one of the most impressive deserts in the world. And in it, there are a few places to know. Among them, you will find the Oasis of Huacachina. The Huacachina oasis is a small natural paradise in the middle of the desert that receives -every year- thousands of travelers from all over the world. This small oasis town nestled in the middle of a series of incredible sand dunes is undoubtedly picturesque. Its excellent location makes Huacachina an access point for some of the best and wildest adventures in Peru. Buggy and sandboarding are the most popular activities. Another pleasant activity that seems to be a ritual for many travelers is watching the sunset over the sand dunes. The landscape is sublime. You will enjoy breathtaking and dazzling views when the sun goes down.
This beautiful destination is one of the best places to enjoy a vacation with friends. The lake’s waters flow from underground springs and are greenish in color. Legend has it that the water had healing properties. You can take advantage of and combine this destination with the wonderful city of Ica. Where you will find some incredible Pisco vineyards and factories.
AMAZON RIVER CRUISE
The Amazon rainforest is home to the largest and most diverse wildlife in the world. For this reason, when you think “Where to go on vacation with friends?” The jungle will be your best option. In fact, two-thirds of Peru’s land area is covered by the Amazon. Amazing. To really enjoy a great trip to the heart of the Amazon rainforest, you must navigate its different rivers and waterways. Therefore, an Amazon cruise is definitely one of the best things to do in Iquitos!
The richness of Amazonian biodiversity is immeasurable. Some of the best wildlife destinations where you can see the Amazon in all its splendor are the Manu National Park and the Tambopata National Reserve. The former is considered one of the largest and richest nature reserves in the world. The second also offers one of the highest levels of biological diversity in the world. When you travel to Tambopata, you will witness the most rugged and beautiful side of Peruvian nature. You will sail along beautiful rivers, lakes, and streams. Without a doubt, a trip to Tambopata will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life!
BALLESTAS ISLANDS
The Ballestas Islands are considered the Peruvian version of the Galapagos Islands. Therefore, the Ballestas Islands definitely have to be on your list of must-see natural destinations in Peru. These rock formations are part of the Paracas National Reserve and are protected by the government. They offer a spectacular mix of dramatic landscapes, ancient culture, and fascinating wildlife. In fact, the Ballestas Islands are a relevant sanctuary for marine fauna. No doubt, the islands are one of the best things to do in Paracas.
One of the best activities to enjoy on a vacation with friends is a boat tour of these islands. During your tour, you will see notable species such as Humboldt penguins, sea lions, dolphins, and birds. Even if you are lucky, you will see humpback whales. These are most visible on their way north for the mating season (early spring, August through October). On the other hand, on the way to the islands, you will notice the Candelabra geoglyph. This is a great three-pointed candelabrum symbol. There are many stories behind its existence. It would be cool and interesting if you could listen to all of them and then draw your own conclusion.
THE SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS
Another of the best destinations to undertake vacation with friends is the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This is one of the most fantastic places to visit in all of South America. This is a beautiful valley with a generally pleasant climate and fertile soils. It was even considered by the Incas as a territory belonging to the nobility. The Urubamba River that runs through the valley was also considered sacred by the Incas. A wide variety of legumes and some of the best corn in the world is grown within the Valley. You will find many things to do in the Sacred Valley. From different adventure tours to Andean Spa treatments.
Inside the Valley, you will find some of the most important archaeological complexes in Peru. Even this area has a great selection of luxury hotels, high-quality restaurants, and endless activities. If you are going to experience a Machu Picchu guided tour, you have to go through the Sacred Valley. So you can take advantage and enjoy a few days in the surroundings. In addition, the Valley is at a lower altitude than Cusco. Making it an excellent destination to acclimatize and enjoy a few days of adventure.
THE NAZCA LINES
The Nazca Lines are a group of ancient geoglyphs drawn in the middle of the desert long ago. These are located very close to the coast, in the Nazca Valley. More specifically between the Pampas de San José and Yumana. These mysterious lines and figures were created by the Nazca culture. Different shapes and lines may vary in size. Some of them measuring up to 300 meters. You will find an endless number of geometric figures, lines, animal figures, and anthropomorphic figures among others. When looking to fly over these ancient and mysterious symbols, you will be able to enjoy one of the best things to do in Nazca.
“A FRIEND IS ONE OF THE BEST THINGS YOU CAN BE AND THE GREATEST THINGS YOU CAN HAVE.”
We hope this little glimpse has given you an idea of all that Peru has to offer. These are just some of the best tourist destinations in Peru. But the truth is that any possible destination in Peru is a destination worth knowing. There is much more to know than the amazing archaeological complex of Machu Picchu. And that is why we hope we have helped you to give you an idea of some places that are worth visiting. Together with the Machu Travel Peru team, we hope we have been helpful. If you want to know more about our different tours within Peru, you can consult with our advisors. They will be happy to help you make the trip of your dreams.
