To truly experience a country as culturally diverse, geologically varied, and historically rich as Peru, one would need much more time than the average backpacker. Regardless, those of us guided by wanderlust seek some insight, a window into the host country. We’ve compiled a two-part list of the attractions that Peru has to offer every type of traveler… What type of backpacker are you?

Conquering Geological Wonders

Peru’s distinct environmental regions provide excellent trekking options for both experienced hikers and casual trekkers alike. There are plenty of trails to choose from, including multi-day slogs and one-day walks. Some of the most popular treks include:

• The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and the alternative Lares Trek, actually favored by locals thanks to its superior sweeping views
• Descend into the depths of the world’s deepest canyons, Cotahuasi Canyon and Colca Canyon, home of the endangered and massive Andean Condors
• The Cordillera Huayhuash Blanca treks- considered among the best in the world

Thrill Seekers

From catching air to catching waves, there’s plenty in Peru to keep the most demanding thrill-seeker occupied.

• Paragliding of the cliffs of Miraflores and over the Pacific Ocean
• Rafting the rapids around Cusco, in the Canyons of Arequipa, and into the Amazon
• Sandbuggy riding and Sandboarding down White Hill and the sand dunes surrounding Huacachina Oasis
• Surfing some of the best waves in the world along the Peruvian Coast north of Lima
• Scaling the rocks and ice of the Cordillera Blanca Range

Eco-Travelers

With a landscape boasting incredible range from the desert coast to snow-capped Andean peaks and down into the lush Amazon Basin, Peru has a number of astounding national parks, sanctuaries, and reserves which would delight any nature-lover and inspire everyone else to becoming nature-lovers:

• Manú National Park in the Amazon Rainforest, one of the world’s most biologically diverse zones
• Paracas National Reserve, off the Peruvian coast south of Lima, with its bustling penguin and sea lion colonies
• Tingo Maria National Park in the Amazon with its cave-dwelling oil birds

Culturally Curious

To foreigners, it will appear that Peru’s year has as many festival days as non-festival days.

• Candelaria in Puno, where you can experience the greatest number of folkloric dances, music, and costumes
• Some popular celebrations such as Inti Raymi in Cusco on June 24^th and Fiestas Patrias Independence Days in July, have festivities which last all month
• Holy Week, or SemanaSanta, popularly and distinctly celebrated in Ayacucho
• Festival of San Juan celebrated on  Amazon riversides.