Machu Picchu

Peru Bucket List: Must-Visit Destinations for Backpackers on a Gap Year

Peru, is a land steeped in ancient history and vibrant cultures. For backpackers on a gap year, Peru offers bucket list experiences that promise to be both enriching and unforgettable. From towering Andean peaks to lush Amazon rainforests, here are some of the best places to visit in Peru that should be on every gap year traveller’s itinerary:

Cusco
Sacred Valley

1. Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Nestled high in the Andes, Cusco serves as the gateway to the ancient Incan Empire. Backpackers on a gap year can wander through the cobblestone streets of this charming city, exploring its colonial architecture and lively markets. Just beyond Cusco lies the Sacred Valley, home to picturesque villages, stunning landscapes, and important Incan ruins such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

In the heart of the Sacred Valley lies Urubamba, where the GapGuru hub is based. This town, surrounded by mountains and the Urubamba River, is a perfect spot for gap year travelers to become immersed in the local way of life off the bateen tourist track. Urubamba offers a more relaxed atmosphere than Cusco, with local markets and a chance to immerse yourself in Peruvian culture. As a key part of your gap year, exploring the Sacred Valley from Urubamba offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with both the landscape and the people.

Machu Picchu

2. Machu Picchu

No trip to Peru is complete without a visit to Machu Picchu, the iconic 15th-century Incan citadel perched atop a mountain in the Andes. Backpackers can choose to trek the famous Inca Trail or opt for alternative routes like the Salkantay Trek, which is part of our Peru programmes Adventure Week. The Salkantay Trek offers a more adventurous and scenic route to Machu Picchu, passing through diverse ecosystems from snow-capped mountains to lush cloud forests.

The Salkantay Trek takes you through the Salkantay Pass, which stands at an impressive 4,600 meters, before descending into warmer, greener valleys. Along the way, you’ll experience traditional Andean villages, stunning natural vistas, and ultimately the breathtaking view of Machu Picchu at the end of your journey. It’s a rewarding and challenging experience, perfect for those seeking adventure during their gap year.

Lima

3. Lima

As Peru’s bustling capital, Lima is a melting pot of cultures and flavors. No gap year is complete without exploring the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, vibrant neighborhoods like Miraflores and Barranco, and sampling Peru’s renowned cuisine. Lima’s mix of history, culture, and food makes it an unforgettable stop on your gap year adventure.

Lake Titicaca

4. Lake Titicaca

Straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world and holds immense cultural significance. Visitors can explore the Uros Islands, floating islands made entirely of totora reeds, and experience the traditional lifestyle of the indigenous communities that live there. Visiting Lake Titicaca on a gap year offers a unique opportunity to connect with ancient cultures and gain insight into traditional ways of life.

Colca Canyon

5. Arequipa and Colca Canyon

Known as the “White City” due to its stunning colonial architecture built from white volcanic stone, Arequipa is a UNESCO-listed city surrounded by three dramatic volcanoes. Nearby Colca Canyon offers some of the best trekking opportunities in Peru, where gap year backpackers can spot Andean condors soaring overhead and relax in natural hot springs after a long hike.

Huacachina

6. Huacachina

 Huacachina is a desert oasis near the city of Ica which has become a must-visit destination for travellers on their gap year. Here, thrill-seekers can try sandboarding down towering sand dunes or take a dune buggy ride at sunset, providing unforgettable views and adrenaline-pumping experiences.

Nazca Lines

7. Nazca Lines

Mystery and intrigue await at the Nazca Lines, a series of ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert plains of southern Peru. Travellers can take a scenic flight over the Nazca Lines to see these massive figures and intricate designs that date back over a thousand years.

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