Top 5 Outdoor Destinations for Backpacking in Peru

Peru is one of the most popular countries to visit in South America. Its location on the Pacific Ocean and the Andes mountain range make it a picturesque place, full of adventures and beauty. If you’re interested in backpacking the country, there are plenty of amazing outdoor destinations that you need to see. Plan your trip around the following Peruvian attractions famous for their beauty and cultural draw.

Machu Picchu

You’ll have to climb a little if you want to see this incredible fortress high up in the Andes Mountains. The views are worth the climb, and they’ll take your breath away. Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century, and it’s thought to be a site of religious importance. Keep in mind that you’ll need to reserve a permit before you enter the park. The Peruvian government only lets in 500 tourists a day!

The Inca Trail

If you love trekking, then you should consider hiking the Inca Trail to Machi Picchu. You’ll be able to take a centuries old road that connects the sacred place to the closest town, Cuzco. It’ll be fun to enjoy Peru in its natural beauty and to see the Sacred Valley. If you don’t want to hike the entire trail, then you can easily do a day hike around this region.

The Urubamba Valley

The Urubamba Valley is located near Machu Picchu. It has plenty of rivers and streams that are popular for white water rafting. Join a trip going down the Tambopata River or the Rio Chili to enjoy the waters.

Colca Canyon

Hikers will appreciate the rugged beauty of the Colca Canyon. You can ride along the trails on horses or take them by foot. You’ll be able to camp or take an afternoon hike depending on your athleticism. This is a great place to get a feel for the northern part of the country.

Surfing

No trip to Peru is complete without a surf trip along the coast. There are plenty of amazing breaks for surfers of all levels. You can check out small villages where you’ll have better chances of finding waves. The southern part of the country is the best part to find continuous breaks.

Enjoy your trip to Peru, but research the area so you’re prepared for any little situations that could come your way.