Peru: 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Guide

Discover the timeless charm of the Historic Center of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000. Wander through its cobbled streets lined with well-preserved colonial buildings, witnesses to the rich history of this Peruvian city. Admire the majesty of the Plaza de Armas, surrounded by stunning buildings, including the iconic cathedral. This exceptional site offers an immersive journey into Spanish architecture and Peruvian culture, capturing the very essence of Arequipa’s beauty. Embark on a journey through time in the heart of this fascinating city.

Discover the historic heart of Lima, a true cultural gem. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988 and 1991, this site immerses you in Peru’s fascinating history. Stroll through its cobbled streets, admire its centuries-old churches, and feel the vibrant essence of the Peruvian capital. Immerse yourself in a unique blend of traditions, colonial architecture, and contemporary energy that makes the Historic Center of Lima a must-visit destination.

Explore the Chanquillo Archaeoastronomical Complex, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021. This exceptional site takes you on a journey through time, revealing an ancient mastery of astronomy. Wander through the intriguing structures that once served as an astronomical observatory, immersing yourself in a unique fusion of science and mysticism. Chanquillo unveils its history through its solar alignments, offering visitors an intimate connection with the millennia-old understanding of the cosmos.

Discover the mysterious Nasca and Palpa Lines and Geoglyphs, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994. These gigantic figures etched into the Peruvian desert captivate with their scale and precision. An enigmatic testament to ancient creativity, each line tells an ancient story and invites visitors to marvel at the artistic ingenuity of these lost civilizations. Embark on a captivating journey to the heart of this unique cultural heritage.

Explore the majestic Andean road network, Qhapaq Ñan, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2014. This vast system of communication, trade, and defense, built by the Incas over centuries, stands as a testament to the architectural genius of pre-Inca civilizations. These ancient pathways stretch over 30,000 km, connecting the snow-capped peaks of the Andes (above 6,000 m) to the coast, crossing humid tropical forests, fertile valleys, and deserts.

Embark on an adventure along Qhapaq Ñan, walking the millennia-old trails that once connected vast territories. The 273 individual sites spanning more than 6,000 km were selected to highlight the architectural, technical, political, and social achievements of the network, as well as its associated infrastructure for trade, lodging, storage, and sites of religious significance.

Discover breathtaking landscapes and experience the cultural heritage of these ancestral routes. Some sections of Qhapaq Ñan are still in use today as part of Peru’s tourist circuits, offering famous routes such as the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the Choquequirao Trail, the Lares Trek, and the Ausangate Route. These sections celebrate Peru’s natural and cultural wealth, providing modern adventurers with an immersive journey into the heart of the Andes. Before setting off, it is recommended to carefully plan your itinerary, obtain the necessary permits, and consider hiring a local trekking agency.

Dive into the mysteries of the Chavín Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1985. Nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, this ancient complex showcases the architectural ingenuity of the Chavín civilization. Explore the monumental temples, admire the enigmatic sculptures, and immerse yourself in the sacred atmosphere of this historic site. Chavín offers a fascinating window into pre-Inca spirituality, providing visitors with a captivating journey into Peru’s ancestral past.

Discover Cuzco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983. Stroll through its cobbled streets, explore the Inca ruins of Coricancha, and admire its colonial architecture. A perfect fusion of Inca heritage and Spanish influence, Cuzco is the ideal starting point for exploring the wonders of Peru.

Travel back in time by visiting Caral-Supe, the oldest city in the Americas, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2009. Admire its pyramids and ceremonial complexes, witnesses to an advanced pre-Columbian civilization. A unique immersion into the history and spirituality of the earliest Andean societies.

Explore Chan Chan, the largest adobe city of pre-Columbian America, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986. As the capital of the Chimú civilization, it reveals impressive decorated walls and magnificent palaces. An exceptional testament to the grandeur of ancient Peru.

Immerse yourself in pristine nature at Huascarán National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1985. Nestled in the majestic Andes mountain range, this park offers breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and unique biodiversity. Explore its hiking trails, admire glacial lakes, and marvel at Andean wildlife. Huascarán National Park is an invitation to experience the awe-inspiring natural splendor of the Peruvian Andes.

Explore the Peruvian Amazon in all its splendor at Manú National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987. Nestled deep in the tropical rainforest, this park is home to extraordinary biodiversity, rare species, and pristine ecosystems. Immerse yourself in the wilderness by trekking its trails, discovering a profusion of exotic plants and animals, and marveling at the richness of Amazonian wildlife and flora. Manú National Park offers an immersive experience in one of the most well-preserved areas of the Amazon, making it an ideal destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Discover the Río Abiseo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage gem listed in 1990 (cultural) and then in 1992 (mixed natural and cultural). This protected area of 274,520 hectares, created in 1983, is one of only two sites in Peru along with Machu Picchu to benefit from dual UNESCO listing. Nestled in the departments of San Martín and La Libertad, the park protects a unique ecosystem of Andean humid forests between 350 and 4,200 meters above sea level.

The park is home to an exceptional biodiversity with 900 recorded wildlife species, including the famous yellow-tailed woolly monkey (Lagothrix flavicauda), rediscovered after a century and thought to be extinct. With 181 mammals, 409 birds, and 1,134 plant species, many of them endemic, this natural sanctuary is a true living laboratory of evolution.

Archaeologically, the park reveals more than 144 pre-Inca sites from the Chachapoyas culture, including the famous complexes of Gran Pajatén and Los Pinchudos. These circular citadels perched between 2,500 and 4,000 meters above sea level testify to sophisticated human occupation in this remote environment. Recent research continues to reveal new archaeological treasures.

As the core area of the Gran Pajatén Biosphere Reserve since 2016, the park offers visitors unique experiences: trekking in primary forest, wildlife observation, rafting on the Huallaga River, and discovery of spectacular waterfalls. Accessible from Tarapoto or Juanjuí, this off-the-beaten-path destination promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of preserved nature and Peru's ancient history.