5 Outdoor Adventures to Have in Peru

Published On February 27, 2018 | By Staff Writer | Travel Planning

1) Climb Volcanoes at Arequipa

Arequipa, at the foot of the Andes in southern Peru, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The city itself is home to hundreds of gorgeous colonial structures, but outdoor adventurers will enjoy biking or climbing at one of the two volcanoes that loom over the city: El Misti, which is 19,680 feet (6,000 meters) high, and Chachani, which is 19,931 feet (6,075 meters) high.

Both climbs are suitable for inexperienced climbers; Chachani is considered the one of the world’s easiest 6,000-meter summits to climb. Neither climb is technically challenging, although it might be a good idea to hire a guide anyway. If you’re a more experienced climber looking for something more challenging, other peaks in the Colca Valley can deliver, including the Ampato volcano or the Hualca Hualca glacier.

2) Bird Watch in the Amazon

The Amazon rainforest in Peru is one of the most richly biodiverse regions on the planet, so even if bird watching isn’t normally your thing, you’re going to want to seize the chance to spy species that simply can’t be seen anywhere else. Visit Manu National Park & Biosphere Reserve, where about a quarter of all bird species in South America can be spotted. Birds aren’t all you’ll see here; the park is home to more than 200 species of animals, including ocelots, black caimans, and giant river otters. Tambopata National Reserve is also popular for famous Tambopata Macaw Clay Lick, one of the nation’s largest natural clay licks, where you can see thousands of gorgeous macaws and parrots gather each day to feed.

3) Explore Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley

Machu Picchu may be Peru’s most famous landmark; it’s accessible by train and bus as well as via a four-day hike along the Inca Trail. Arrive at Machu Picchu early in the morning to climb Huayna Picchu, the mountain that towers over the site, or follow the Inca Trail from the Caretaker’s Hut to the Sun Gate. Don’t miss the Royal and Sacred Areas, the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana; if you haven’t purchased a tour in Cusco, you can hire a tour group at the gates. If you have time, check out the rest of what the Sacred Valley has to offer; other trails aren’t as crowded and offer stunning vistas.

4) Go White-Water Rafting in the Urubamba Valley

The Urubamba Valley just beyond Cusco offers a range of whitewater runs, suitable for rafters of all experience levels. Rafting options range from basic one-day trips to multi-day excursions through the Amazon jungle. You’ll also find good rafting in the region around Arequipa, where several rivers offer rapids ranging from beginner-level all the way up to Class VI.

5) Hike the Cordillera Blanca

The Cordillera Blanca is the world’s highest tropical mountain chain, featuring spectacular snow-capped peaks. Experienced mountaineers make their way to Huaraz, the region’s hub, to participate in a range of adventure sports, including whitewater rafting, hang gliding, rock climbing, and mountain biking.

Whether you’re interested in serious mountaineering or you’re more inclined to day hikes, Huaraz is a good base to get acclimated to the altitude and prepare for expeditions into the mountains, while meeting other travelers and enjoying the laid-back, small-town atmosphere. If you’re interested in culture, visit the 1,500-year-old archeological site of Chavin de Huantar, about four hours away. Other small towns at the base of the Cordillera range, such as Caraz and Yungay, offer pleasant scenery and quiet, small-town vibes.

Peru is one of the best destinations in South America for the adventurous, outdoorsy traveler. Hike the Inca Trail through the Sacred Valley, or venture into the Amazon rainforest to look for tropical birds and animals. There’s so much outdoor fun to be had in Peru, your biggest problem will be figuring out how to fit it all in.

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