Peru Highlights: Llamas, Lima, Cusco & Machu Picchu
- Hannah Truman
- Aug 23
- 7 min read
We kicked off our very first trip to South America with a G Adventures x National Geographic tour through Peru, and it couldn’t have been a better introduction to the continent.
From the bustling streets of Lima to the cobblestone charm of Cusco and the breathtaking wonder of Machu Picchu, Peru instantly felt unlike anywhere we’ve traveled before. The mix of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and of course llamas made this journey one to remember.
Join me as I share the highlights from our adventure!
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Lima
Your journey to Peru begins in Lima, the country’s bustling capital. Situated near sea level, Lima is a great place to acclimate before heading to higher-altitude destinations like Cusco. The city offers a mix of colonial history, modern neighborhoods, and vibrant culinary experiences, making it the perfect introduction to Peru.
Food tour / Barranco
Before our group tour officially kicked off, we had a free day in Lima to explore and what better way to spend it than with a 4-hour food tour?
Set in the artsy, picturesque neighborhood of Barranco, the tour took us through colorful streets while we sampled local favorites like fresh ceviche, lomo saltado, exotic fruits, and artisanal chocolate.
I recommend doing this tour at the beginning of your trip since it’s a great way to try Peru’s most iconic dishes early on, since by the end of your journey you’ll likely have enjoyed many of them again. It’s also an ideal way to get a feel for the city and its vibrant food culture.
Miraflores
We also spent time exploring Miraflores, one of Lima’s most popular and modern districts—and for good reason, it’s where most visitors choose to stay. Perched along dramatic coastal cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Miraflores has a completely different vibe from the rest of the city.
The boardwalk is perfect for a scenic stroll, with stunning ocean views and plenty of public art along the way. One of my favorite spots was Love Park, with its colorful mosaic artwork and picture-perfect views over the cliffs where you can watch surfers catching waves below.
Larco Museum & Restaurant
The Larco Museum in Lima is a must-visit for anyone interested in Peru’s rich history. The museum features an extensive collection of art, including ceramics, textiles, and gold and silver artifacts. With your ticket, you can join guided tours in both English and Spanish, which run on an hourly schedule.
After exploring the museum, don’t miss the museum’s restaurant, which serves traditional Peruvian dishes in a charming setting. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch while taking in the museum gardens.
Kennedy park
Right in the heart of Miraflores is Kennedy Park, which is famous for its lively atmosphere and furry residents—cats! The park is filled with friendly cats lounging in the grass, napping on benches, and happily mingling with visitors.
Beyond the cats, you’ll also find street vendors, artists, and food stalls that give the park an energetic local feel, especially in the evenings. It’s a must-stop if you’re in Miraflores, whether you’re a cat lover or just want to soak in the atmosphere.
Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley lies between Cusco and Machu Picchu, known for its lush landscapes, traditional villages, and ancient Inca ruins. It’s a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Maras Salt Mines
One of our first stops with the group was the Maras Salt Mines. Nestled in the Sacred Valley, these terraced salt pools have been in use since pre-Inca times, and their geometric patterns create a truly striking landscape.
Here, you can watch local families harvesting salt by hand, giving you a fascinating glimpse into an ancient tradition that’s still very much alive today. After snapping your photos, don’t miss the chance to purchase some of the salt to take home as a unique souvenir!
Moray Inca Ruin
Another fascinating stop in the Sacred Valley is Moray, an ancient Inca site famous for its circular terraces. The Incas used this area for agricultural experiments, taking advantage of the varying temperatures at each level to study how different crops grew.
Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is a charming town in the Sacred Valley and a living example of Inca architecture. The town itself is laid out much like it was in Inca times, with narrow cobblestone streets and terraces that climb the hillside. Its fortress and archaeological site are particularly impressive, featuring massive stone walls and terraces that were used for both defense and agriculture. Ollantaytambo is also a key gateway for travelers heading to Machu Picchu, making it a convenient stop along the way.
Parque de la Papa (Potato Park)
One of National Geographic’s exclusive tour experiences is a visit to the community of Pampallacta, where you can learn about life in a rural Andean agricultural village. The community offers insights into traditional planting, harvesting, and indigenous textile practices.
One of our favorite parts of the visit was seeing the women sell their beautiful handmade textiles, crafted from alpaca wool, naturally dyed and woven using historic designs. It is a truly authentic and meaningful souvenir to bring home.
Cusco
To get to Cusco, you’ll take a short flight of about an hour from Lima. Perched high in the Andes, Cusco was once the capital of the Inca Empire and is full of history, culture, and vibrant energy.
Sacsaywaman
Just outside the city, the massive Saqsaywaman ruins showcase incredible Inca stonework and offer panoramic views of Cusco. The complex was built in the 15th century and is a must-see for history and architecture lovers. A quick tip: tickets are cash only, so be sure to bring some Soles with you.
San Pedro Market
One of the best ways to experience local life in Cusco is a visit to San Pedro Market. This bustling market is full of color, energy, and the scents of fresh produce, spices, and traditional foods. You can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade textiles, souvenirs, and local snacks.
Main Square (Plaza de Armas)
Cusco’s Plaza de Armas is the heart of the city, lined with beautiful colonial buildings, churches, restaurants, and shops. It’s a lively hub where locals and tourists gather, making it perfect for people-watching and soaking in the city’s charm.
San Blas Neighborhood
For a more artsy vibe, head to the San Blas neighborhood. Known for its narrow cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and cozy cafes, it’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs, enjoy a coffee, or admire local crafts and artwork.
Aguas Caliente
Aguas Calientes is the small town at the base of Machu Picchu. It’s the main hub for travelers heading to the famous ruins and has a lively, tourist-friendly atmosphere. The town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and small shops where you can grab a bite, stock up on essentials, or pick up souvenirs before your visit to Machu Picchu.
The train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes takes about an hour and a half. If you plan to rise early for Machu Picchu, I highly recommend spending the night in Aguas Calientes to rest and prepare for the day.
Machu Picchu
The crown jewel of our Peru trip was, of course, Machu Picchu, the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the wonders of the world. We visited early in the morning is essential, so we had a 6:00 a.m. entry ticket and met our guide before sunrise. The quiet of the early morning made the experience feel almost magical, with mist swirling around the terraces and peaks.
We lingered at the photo ledges, watching the sun rise and the clouds slowly lift to reveal the full majesty of the ruins, giving us the perfect opportunity to capture iconic shots before the crowds arrived. Our guide shared fascinating stories about the Inca civilization and the construction of Machu Picchu, which made the experience even more memorable and meaningful.
Note: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and bringing water, snacks, and a light jacket is helpful since mornings can be chilly before the sun fully rises.
Peru Cuisine
Ceviche – A must-try dish, ceviche features fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onions, chili, and cilantro. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor.
Lomo Saltado – This classic Peruvian stir-fry combines tender beef, onions, tomatoes, and fries, often served with rice. It’s a perfect example of the country’s fusion of indigenous and Asian influences.
Ajà de Gallina – a classic Peruvian comfort food made with shredded chicken in a creamy, slightly spicy yellow sauce made from ajà amarillo peppers, bread soaked in milk, cheese, and walnuts. It’s usually served over rice and often accompanied by boiled potatoes and hard-boiled eggs. The dish is rich, flavorful, and a great example of Peru’s fusion of indigenous and European culinary influences.
Chicha Morada – A traditional purple corn drink, sweet and spiced with cinnamon and cloves. It’s refreshing and pairs well with almost any meal.
Guinea Pig (Cuy) – For the adventurous eater, guinea pig is a traditional Andean dish. Often roasted and served with potatoes, it’s a cultural experience and a true local delicacy.
Peru Tips
Group Tour – We did a G Adventures small group tour, and I think it was definitely the way to go. Planning this trip on your own would have been challenging, and the tour guides made the experience truly invaluable. I can’t recommend them enough for a Peru adventure.
Altitude Adjustment – Many popular destinations like Cusco and the Sacred Valley are high above sea level. Take it easy on your first day and stay hydrated to help your body adjust to the altitude.
Packing Layers – Peru’s climate can vary greatly depending on where you are. Pack layers so you’re comfortable in coastal Lima, the cooler Andes, and even warm afternoons in the Sacred Valley.
Toilet Paper – Public bathrooms don’t always provide toilet paper, so it’s a good idea to carry some tissues with you just in case.
Water  – It’s best to drink bottled or filtered water rather than tap water to avoid stomach issues. On our small tour, we purchased a shared water box so we could refill our bottles whenever needed. Many hotels also provide filtered water, which makes staying hydrated easier throughout your trip.
Cash – Peru uses Soles, but it’s also a good idea to have some US dollars on hand for emergencies or for places that don’t accept cards. On our tour, the guides were happy to accept US currency as well.
Spanish – Knowing some basic Spanish, or even just common greetings and phrases, goes a long way. Simple words like Hola (hello), Buenos dÃas (good morning), or Gracias (thank you) are always appreciated. Peruvians are incredibly friendly, and it’s a great opportunity to practice your language skills.
Thanks for reading!
-Â The Maine Chick
