NatGeo Travel. Oct 2025.

Beyond Machu Picchu, these destinations reveal a side of the country that most visitors miss—from volcanic cities and canyon villages to sacred lakes and jungle getaways.

Most first-time travelers to Peru head straight for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, perhaps pausing in Lima for fresh ceviche, but rarely venture further. Yet beyond the well-trodden paths lies a tapestry of unsung towns and landscapes—from snowcapped volcanoes and scarred canyons to floating islands and the world’s highest navigable lake. 

“As a Peruvian, I believe Peru’s magic lies not only in iconic sites but also in smaller towns and remote landscapes where traditions thrive and still shape daily life. Where travelers can go beyond the standard route, exploring heritage, rural culture, and centuries-old agricultural practices that are very much alive,” says Lorenzo Masías, head of Commercial at Andean, a family-owned hospitality company specializing in immersive journeys across Peru.

These five destinations not only offer genuine encounters, sustainable experiences, and a deeper connection to the country, but also help combat overtourism in Peru.