What Is Peru Famous For

The Republic of Peru is full of wonders, with a diverse landscape and rich history. From the famous Machu Picchu to the lively city of Lima, there is something to amaze every traveller. Let us explore some of the top Peru tourist places:

Machu Picchu

No visit to Peru’s wonders is complete without mentioning Machu Picchu. This treasure of the Andes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the main attraction in Peru. Many travellers choose the famous Inca Trail hike or a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley to reach this mysterious high-altitude site. Standing at the Sun Gate and looking at the ruins below is an unforgettable experience.

Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines always rank high among Peru’s top attractions. These mysterious designs must be seen up close like any other archaeological wonder. For the best view, take a scenic flight and see the monkeys, giant hummingbirds and spiders drawn in the desert. Some of these huge figures stretch for an amazing 10 km (6 miles), making them hard to miss!

Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain)

Affectionately known as "Rainbow Mountain”, the colourful Vinicunca peak is a new highlight in Peru's hiking scene. Once covered in snow, its stunning layers of gold, ochre and orange have become famous on Instagram. Because of this, Rainbow Mountain is often listed as one of Peru's most captivating attractions.

It is located just three hours from the busy city of Cusco. And, the Vinicunca hike can easily be part of a day trip or an overnight adventure. The breathtaking views of Rainbow Mountain are a reward in themselves.

The Amazon Rainforest

The Peruvian Amazon is a top spot for exploring rainforests in South America. You can take exciting river cruises from Iquitos or dive into the wilderness at Tambopata National Reserve or Manu National Park. Hike through lush trails, try fishing for piranhas and see the amazing sight of macaws eating clay deep in the Amazon.

The area's incredible wildlife allows you to see some extraordinary animals. The sounds of monkeys in the trees and the magical glow of fireflies at dusk make for an unforgettable natural experience.

The best time to experience the Amazon’s beauty is during the dry season, which is from July to December. With lower water levels, this period is perfect for hiking. On the other hand, the rainy season, from January to June, has milder temperatures and better chances to see wildlife. When considering the best month to visit Peru, consider whether you prefer dry or wet conditions to make the most of your Amazon adventure.

Sacsayhuaman Fortress

Just a short distance north of Cusco, the archaeological wonder of Sacsayhuaman is a must-visit. It is easy to reach and often included in day tours with other nearby Inca ruins. The views of Cusco from here are breathtaking. Just make sure to bring your camera!

The highlight of Sacsayhuaman is its huge, impressive wall. Built from massive stones, some reaching 4 metres high and weighing over 100 tons, it shows the Inca's amazing engineering skills.

Lima

Exploring all of Peru’s famous destinations would take several months. However, Lima - the capital of the Republic of Peru, is often overshadowed by places like Machu Picchu. But let us tell you, Lima deserves attention on its own. This lively city has many fascinating attractions.

The historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It features the impressive 16th-century Plaza de Armas. Discover the city's rich history through its churches, palaces, cathedrals and museums. Enjoy world-class dining and relax in charming boutique hotels. Be sure to visit the artistic area of Barranco and the vibrant coastal district of Miraflores, both known for their unique appeal.

Peruvian cuisine has risen to the global stage. It has delighted the taste buds of many with a unique fusion of flavours. What food treasures does Peru have? Let us go on a food journey to discover the country’s most popular dishes. Get ready to be amazed by some interesting facts as we explore the heart of Peruvian food.

Ceviche

Ceviche is definitely the star of Peru's food scene, a dish perfected on its shores. This famous dish mixes tender fish marinated in lime with bright red onions and the sweet crunch of corn and sweet potato, creating a burst of flavour. Unlike Mexican ceviche, Peruvian ceviche does not have tomatoes or avocado.

Many Peruvians believe ceviche has special powers, like curing hangovers or boosting romance, which shows how much they love it. This dish is found all over the country and has deep cultural importance. Peruvians even celebrate National Ceviche Day on June 28th, turning restaurants and hotels into places for creative versions of this beloved dish.

Pisco Sour

Though not a food dish, the Pisco Sour is a must-try for a Peruvian food adventure. As Peru's national drink, this famous cocktail is made with Peruvian pisco, a grape spirit, syrup, brandy, lime juice and a bit of egg white.

The Pisco Sour provides a refreshing and memorable taste. This popular drink is found nationwide, and its importance is celebrated yearly on World Pisco Sour Day, the first Saturday of February.

Cuy

The rumours are indeed true: guinea pigs are a food staple in Peru! Known locally as "cuy”, these adorable creatures are considered a delectable treat rather than beloved pets. It is typically served whole, fried or roasted alongside a few potatoes.

The dish is often reserved for special occasions but can be found on the menu of traditional restaurants nationwide. You have to be adventurous in order to try this one. It is a real adventure for your taste buds.

Lomo Saltado (Beef stir-fry)

Lomo Saltado is another must-try dish on your Peruvian food list. From Lima, this tasty dish includes marinated sirloin steak stir-fried with tomatoes, red onions and Ají Amarillo chilli pepper. It is generally served with rice and French fries.

Lomo Saltado was created by Chinese chefs who came to Lima's Chinco neighbourhood in the early 19th century. They invented the technique of wok-frying beef. Lima’s Calle La Concepción, the centre of Peru’s Chinatown, is known as the birthplace of this dish, but today, Lomo Saltado is enjoyed all over the country.

Pollo a la Brasa (Roasted Chicken)

Pollo a la Brasa is Peru's celebrated method of perfectly roasting a whole chicken. It is traditionally served with French fries, a refreshing salad and the indispensable ají verde sauce - an irresistible blend of sour cream, cashews, mayonnaise and a touch of jalapeño heat.

A relatively recent addition to Peru's gastronomic landscape, Pollo a la Brasa is typically enjoyed as a dinnertime treat, around 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Its origins can be traced back to the Chaclacayo neighbourhood in 1950, where Swiss immigrant Roger Schuler mastered the art after carefully observing local cooking techniques.

Today, Pollo a la Brasa is a beloved staple in countless restaurants across Lima, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Causa (Potato Casserole)

Causa is a fascinating Peruvian appetiser that looks like a burger but is served cold. The "buns" are made from mashed potatoes mixed with the bright flavours of ají Amarillo. The filling usually includes avocado and either chicken or tuna.

The Incas are often credited with creating causa. Its name comes from the Quechua word "kausaq”, meaning "sustenance for life", showing how important potatoes were in Inca culture.

Picarones

For a quick and tasty treat, Picarones are the perfect choice. They look like doughnuts with a great mix of sweet and spicy flavours. They are made mainly from sweet potatoes and different types of pumpkins. Picarones are a popular dessert in Peru and are easy to find at any street market.

Peru is a land of extraordinary diversity, and its fame extends far beyond its iconic landmarks and delicious cuisine. Let us look at other remarkable aspects that have placed Peru on the world stage.

Producing Various Kinds of Potatoes

Peruvian agriculture features a wide range of crops, with the potato being the most important. There are over 4,000 different types of potatoes in Peru, including varieties like Papa Blanca, Papa Huamantanga, Papa Amarilla and Papa Canchan, among others. The varieties showcase stunning colours, from purple to red and even blue.

Potatoes are so important in Peru that they are celebrated with an annual event on May 30th. The Inca agricultural lab at Moray provides a fascinating look at how potatoes were grown in the Andes and is a great trip from Cusco.

Sloths

Sloths have won the hearts of people worldwide with their delightfully slow-moving lifestyle. These mysterious creatures have moved beyond their tropical forest homes to become global stars, appearing in memes and movies like “Zootopia”, "Ice Age” and "The Croods”. Did you know these beloved animals come from the Republic of Peru?

A Sloth Appreciation Society has been formed in Peru, showing how much people adore sloths like they once did with unicorns. The market is full of sloth-themed items, from stuffed toys to home decorations, meeting the huge demand for all things sloth. While we also love these charming animals, their popularity might be reaching its peak in Peru.

Sloths are a fun and memorable answer when thinking about what makes Peru famous.

Andean Animals

Peru’s Andean region is home to many fascinating animals. Llamas and alpacas, famous area symbols, roam the high-altitude landscapes with their gentle presence. These animals are adorable and very important culturally, especially for their wool. The rare vicuña, known for its fine wool, adds to the charm of the Andean wildlife.

As you explore Peru’s deep canyons, look for the majestic condor, a respected symbol among local communities, soaring high in the sky. Seeing these amazing Andean animals up close reveals the true beauty of Peru’s natural world.

That was quite a journey through Peru's amazing attractions! Did you find yourself amazed by the many wonders this fascinating country offers? We hope this guide has shown you what Peru is unique for and inspired your travel plans. As you start your adventure, remember to care for yourself by getting comprehensive Peru travel insurance.

While the Peru government does not mandate Indian travellers and tourists to buy travel insurance online or offline, it is smart to exercise caution before booking your flight to this enchanting country.

A good travel insurance Peru is your safety net. It protects you from flight delays, unexpected medical issues and losing important items like luggage and passports. If you experience theft, your travel insurance provider can help with emergency money. To ensure peace of mind, consider buying travel insurance online before visiting Peru.

Not just that, if you buy travel insurance coverage from TATA AIG, we will cover accommodation costs if your trip needs to be extended due to unavoidable situations. Check out our plans for Peru travel insurance online to protect your trip to the Republic of Peru.

What is Peru known for making?

Peru is famous for making delicious foods like ceviche and lomo saltado. It is also known for its high-quality textiles, including beautiful alpaca wool products. Plus, Peru is renowned for producing pisco, a popular brandy used in cocktails like the Pisco Sour.

What other places can tourists visit in Peru?

Visitors to Peru can explore the charm of Huacachina and Paracas or take exciting boat trips to the Islas Ballestas. If you want adventure, the Andes near Huaraz and the Amazon region around Puerto Maldonado provide amazing experiences.

Do Indians need a visa to visit Peru?

Yes, Indian nationals do require a visa to enter Peru for both business and leisure purposes. To obtain a visa, you must apply at the nearest Peruvian Embassy or Consulate. The standard processing time for these applications is approximately four to five business days.