Peru Colonial History

Peru

Take a break from outdoor adventures such as Peru surfing and hiking, and explore the country's colonial history. Wander the city streets to admire the colonial architecture and pop into one of the country's many great museums to dig deeper into Peru's past.

Peru was colonized by the Spanish in the 16th century and remained under Spanish control for several hundred years. During this time, long-lasting structures were built — including cathedrals, convents, and houses — and many of them still stand today, giving many of Peru's cities and towns a distinctive look and feel. The streets are often paved with cobblestones, and the old buildings now house cute cafés.

Cultural enthusiasts, history buffs, and photography lovers will not want to miss destinations like Lima, Peru and Chincha.

Peru Colonial History
Destinations

Peru Highlights

A curated look at the best Peru has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.

Cusco

Cusco

Nestling in the dip of the Watanay River Valley, from above the city of Cusco takes the shape of a puma, which some historians theorize was a purposeful design. As the city expands, its borders creep up the sides of the surrounding mountains, but puma statues, fountains, and signs keep the big cat’s status of unofficial city mascot.

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Lima

Lima

The coastal city of Lima is diverse, with colorful parks, friendly locals, tasty cuisine, vibrant markets, and ancient historical attractions. Travelers can tour world-class museums, wander through the colonial architecture of Miraflores, and eat seafood along the Pacific coast.

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Cajamarca

Cajamarca

Cajamarca is a charming city in northern Peru. Set within the Andes at an elevation of about 9,000 feet (2,750 m), Cajamarca is one of the best destinations in the Northern Highlands. Despite rapid growth due to the gold mining industry, Cajamarca still retains a historic feel. Villagers stroll down cobblestone streets in traditional attire, passing by old churches and colonial houses as they make their way towards the Plaza de Armas.

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Chincha

Chincha

Chincha is a hub of Afro-Peruvian culture. You can see this influence in the handicrafts that locals sell and in the music scene. Sample sugarcane juice while you’re here, as well as fresh seafood.

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Trips to inspire

Featured Peru Trips

Browse our handpicked selection of Peru itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.

10 days | $$$

A Family Wild at Heart

Explore some of Peru’s most exciting destinations when you and your family enjoy delicious cuisine, stunning scenery, and bucket list-worthy sites.

A Family Wild at Heart
14 days | $$$

A Family Journey of a Lifetime

Anywhere made this so easy! No glitches in our travels at all. From the hike to Machu Picchu to speeding through sand dunes in a buggy, the entire experience was out of this world.

A Family Journey of a Lifetime
15 days | $$$

The Heart of The Incas

Trips like this don't cross your path every day. To get to the heart of Incan culture, you should taste their food, walk in their footsteps, and touch the sky.

The Heart of The Incas
14 days | $$$

Culinary Curiosity in Peru

Savor the Peru in all its glory with a combination of culinary and outdoor adventures. This tasty trip for two is just the vacation you need.

Culinary Curiosity in Peru
9 days | $$$

Wow, We Did it!

Excellent coordination and very helpful staff throughout the trip. Sara is the boss...she has good command of all aspects of our trip and provided the necessary help & support ...right from planning stage to boarding our flight back to US.

Wow, We Did it!
15 days | $$$

Peruvian Highlights for One

Take yourself to a whirlwind adventure through one of South America’s most vibrant countries with this ‘best of’ expedition through Peru.

Peruvian Highlights for One
12 days | $$$

Our Quest for Peruvian Adventures

The three of us have been dreaming about this trip for a long time. Everything was well arranged. We just had to be dressed, wait for our ride, and enjoy.

Our Quest for Peruvian Adventures
8 days | $$$

Romantic Journey to Machu Picchu

Peru is a beautiful country and we’re blown away by all the things we’ve seen. We were caught completely by surprise by the breathtaking coastline views.

Romantic Journey to Machu Picchu
14 days | $$$

The VIP Experience in Peru

I really could not be happier. The Anywhere Team made me feel like a VIP my entire time in Peru. The hotels were very nice & safe. The food was fantastic. Transportation was smooth, nice trains, safe airlines. I recommend Peru to all travelers!

The VIP Experience in Peru
8 days | $$$

We Conquered Huayna Picchu

This was a very personal experience and Anywhere.com does an amazing job of having agents who are cultured and/or very familiar with the country to which you wish to visit. This allows the agent to listen to what you want to experience and then match you up with the right outfitter, vendor, excursion group, etc...I felt like Sara Nizama truly listened to my wants/needs and made them a reality. I am so happy with my Peru experience, thanks to Sara and her team. I want to go back soon and explore more of Peru with the help of Sara and her team. Thank you!

We Conquered Huayna Picchu
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Anywhere Peru

Insider-led Peru Design & Concierge

Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.

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We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list – it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.

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