Peru Regions
Explore Peru’s Diverse Landscapes, Cultures and Destinations
Our regional guides now cover twelve of Peru’s most rewarding destinations. Explore Lima’s historic centre, coastal neighbourhoods and celebrated food scene; discover the Inca heritage of Cusco; or experience the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Arequipa and the high-altitude beauty of Puno.
Further south, Ica combines desert scenery, vineyards and the Huacachina oasis. In northern Peru, La Libertad and Lambayeque reveal ancient civilisations and impressive archaeological sites, while Piura and Tumbes offer beautiful beaches, distinctive cuisine and a relaxed tropical character.
To the east, Madre de Dios and Loreto open the door to the Peruvian Amazon, from wildlife-rich rainforest and remote jungle lodges to the vast waterways surrounding Iquitos and Pacaya Samiria. Pasco adds yet another side of Peru, with the cloud forests of Oxapampa, the distinctive heritage of Pozuzo, Villa Rica’s coffee country and the extraordinary landscapes of Huayllay.
Browse our twelve featured regions below and discover what makes each part of Peru so distinctive. These guides form the first stage of our regional collection, with more destinations to come as Purely Peru continues to grow.
Happy exploring,
Malena x
Peru is a country of extraordinary contrasts, with 25 regions stretching from the Pacific coast across the Andes and into the Amazon rainforest. Each has its own landscapes, traditions, cuisine and remarkable places to discover.
01
Cusco Region
Nestled in the heart of the Andes, the Cusco Region is the historical epicenter of the ancient Inca Empire. Its captivating blend of pre-Columbian history and colonial architecture makes it a must-visit. From the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant streets of Cusco City and the breathtaking beauty of Vinicunca, this region is a testament to the rich tapestry of Peruvian culture and history.
02
Lima Region
As the capital of Peru, Lima stands as a bustling metropolis juxtaposed against the Pacific coastline. A treasure trove of colonial architecture, world-class museums, and a culinary scene that's internationally acclaimed, Lima offers a modern take on Peru's ancient traditions and a gateway to the nation's diverse landscapes.
03
Arequipa Region
Known for its stunning baroque architecture crafted from white volcanic sillar stone, Arequipa, the "White City", is a feast for the eyes. Set against the backdrop of the Misti volcano, the region is also home to the Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons, and a haven for the magnificent Andean condor.
04
Puno Region
Puno, on the shores of the ethereal Lake Titicaca, offers a glimpse into the high-altitude life of the Andes. The floating islands of the Uros people and the rich tapestry of indigenous cultures make Lake Titicaca a place of living history, mythology, and breathtaking beauty.
05
Ica Region
The Ica Region is a landscape of contrasts. From the mysterious Nazca Lines etched into the desert to the verdant oasis of Huacachina and the marine-rich Ballestas Islands, Ica is a testament to the natural and ancient wonders that coexist in this sun-drenched part of Peru.
06
Madre de Dios Region
Gateway to the Amazon Rainforest, Madre de Dios is a verdant paradise teeming with biodiversity. From the bustling town of Puerto Maldonado to the dense jungles of Tambopata and Manu, this region offers intrepid travelers an unparalleled immersion into one of the world's most iconic ecosystems.
07
La Libertad Region
Anchored by the coastal city of Trujillo, La Libertad is a region steeped in pre-Incan history. From the sun-baked adobe walls of Chan Chan, the largest pre-Columbian city in the Americas, to the intricate temples of the Moche culture, La Libertad is a journey back in time.
08
Lambayeque Region
Home to the ancient tombs of the Lord of Sipán and the vast pyramids of Túcume, Lambayeque is a region that encapsulates the grandeur of ancient Northern Peruvian cultures. With its rich archaeological sites and museums, it stands as a beacon for those intrigued by the mysteries of the past.
09
Piura Region
From the laid-back beaches of Máncora to the colonial streets of Piura and the dry forests of the northern coast, Piura offers a very different side of Peru. Warm sunshine, superb seafood, distinctive local traditions and some of the country’s best beaches make it an ideal region for travellers looking to combine culture, coast and relaxation.
10
Tumbes Region
At Peru’s northernmost edge, Tumbes combines warm Pacific beaches, tropical mangrove forests and remarkable wildlife. From the relaxed shores of Punta Sal and Zorritos to the winding waterways of Puerto Pizarro, this compact region offers wonderful seafood, protected natural landscapes and a distinctly different side of Peru.
11
Loreto Region
Deep in Peru’s north-eastern Amazon, Loreto is a vast region of immense rivers, tropical rainforest and extraordinary wildlife. From colourful Iquitos and the waterways of the Amazon to remote jungle lodges and the protected wilderness of Pacaya Samiria, Loreto offers one of Peru’s most immersive experiences, where nature, culture and river life come together.
12
Pasco Region
Where the high Andes descend into Peru’s central jungle, Pasco is a region of cloud forests, dramatic landscapes and distinctive cultural traditions. From the green valleys of Oxapampa and the Austro-German heritage of Pozuzo to Villa Rica’s coffee country and the remarkable stone forest of Huayllay, Pasco offers nature, culture and adventure well beyond Peru’s usual tourist routes.
