Regions at a Glance
Peru can be divided into three major natural regions and five travel regions:
The three natural regions
- Costa (Coast): The narrow desert strip along the Pacific, home to the capital Lima and the Nazca Lines
- Sierra (Highlands): The Andean region with Cusco, Arequipa, Lake Titicaca, and peaks over 6,000 m
- Selva (Rainforest): The Amazon lowlands — 60% of the country's area, but only 5% of the population
Lima
For whom: Foodies, culture lovers, city explorers
The ten-million metropolis on the Pacific surprises with its UNESCO old town, the bohemian district of Barranco, and a culinary scene that makes Lima the culinary capital of the world. The Museo Larco houses spectacular pre-Inca treasures.
Cusco & Sacred Valley
For whom: History fans, trekkers, Inca enthusiasts
The former capital of the Inca Empire at 3,400 m altitude with a UNESCO old town, surrounded by the Sacred Valley with Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and the spectacular salt mines of Maras. From here, all roads lead to Machu Picchu.
Arequipa & Colca Canyon
For whom: Architecture fans, nature lovers, adventurers
The "White City" made of volcanic stone, the impressive Santa Catalina Monastery, and the Colca Canyon — twice as deep as the Grand Canyon — where condors circle in the thermals.
Lake Titicaca
For whom: Cultural travelers, photographers, peace seekers
The highest navigable lake in the world (3,812 m) with the fascinating floating reed islands of the Uros and the traditional communities on Taquile and Amantáni.
Amazonas
For whom: Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, adventurers
From Iquitos by boat into the untouched jungle of the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve, or from Puerto Maldonado into the Tambopata region with its legendary parrot clay licks.
