The first thing that comes to most peoples mind when they envision their dream trip to Peru is probably Machu Picchu. It is a major bucket list site, however not the only exciting or adventurous thing that Peru has to offer! Whether your looking to step out of your comfort zone just a bit, or you’re a full on adrenaline junkie, these 8 things should probably be on your list if you are planning your own Peruvian adventure.
Visiting The Salt Mines of Maras
In the mountains of the Sacred Valley you can find a pink salt mine that was created over 2,000 years ago which is still in use today. You can visit this beautiful site and watch the locals harvest the salt that is used in all of the restaurants you will be visiting during your stay. Make sure to purchase some to take home!
Adventurous Food Experiences
One of the most adventurous experiences you can have while in Peru can easily be had at any local restaurant. Try eating Alpaca and Guinea Pig, or as the locals call it – Cuy. If you want to really immerse yourself in Peruvian culture this is certainly one way to do so! Check Out My Foodie’s Guide to Peru for help finding the best places to try these dishes.
Take a Selfie With An Alpaca
What better way to commemorate your Puruvian adventure than with a selfie with an alpaca! Just be careful when trying to pet them since they are known to spit.
Via Ferrata + Zipline
For the adrenaline junkies out there add Via Ferrata and Zipline in the Sacred Valley to your bucket list now! This heart racing adventure includes scaling over 1,300 ft of Via Ferrata on a mountain side in the heart of Sacred Valley and then descending back down 6 ziplines to reach the ground again.
Visit a Textile Market
There are several types of markets you can visit while in Peru but the most fascinating to add to your itinerary is definitely a textile market. Stop by to learn how locals make fabric out of alpaca wool, dye it with crushed fruits, and turn them into beautiful designs representative of Incan stories and the Incan Calendar. This specific market I visited was called the Chinchero Market and is located in the Sacred Valley.
ATV Through Sacred Valley
The absolute best way to see and experience the Sacred Valley is to ATV through it! On an ATV you will see parts of the valley that you wouldn’t be able to access otherwise. Every 100 ft you will see something new since there are such drastic changes in terrain. A few highlights include farmers farming, wildlife, and beautiful lakes. Not to mention the epic views of the Andes Mountains surrounding you. This is the exact tour I booked.
Hike Rainbow Mountain
Rainbow Mountain in Peru and is just a quick day trip from Cusco, Peru. The colorful hills you have probably seen all over Instagram are the result of rich minerals some layers being richer than others resulting in a rainbow effect. Although I did not have the time to visit Rainbow Mountain while I visited Peru it is certainly at the top of my list for my next visit!
Take A Cooking Class With A Local
What better way to way to immerse yourself in Peru’s culture than by cooking with a local chef. You can book an experience in Cusco, Peru that involves going to a local market to pick your own fresh ingredients, followed by a step by step cooking class. This class is in a home converted to a cooking studio that is over 150 years old. Learn to make a handful of your favorite Peruvian dishes and drinks so you can keep loving Peru long after you return home.
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I hope you found this post helpful! Please reach out or leave a comment if you have any questions on any of the tours linked!
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