As you may know, Machu Picchu is the most famous site that draws travelers with its mystical presence, ancient charm, and scenic beauty. A genuinely must-see location that is the focus of most trips to Peru, but how about those who want to experience other Peruvian highlights off the beaten paths?

If you're looking for unique and fantastic experiences not found on a frequent and most standard Peruvian itinerary, to dip yourself into the rich culture of ancient Incas descendants, here are seven experiences to get you to know Peru beyond the bucket list.

Experience #1: Qoyllur Rit' i Pilgrimage

There is no such event in the world than the high mountain festival of Snow Star, Qoyllur Rit'I in Quechua. This breathtaking celebration is an incredible opportunity to experience the Andean culture up close. It's an annual pilgrimage of a massive amount of people, mostly from mountain villages to the Sinakara glacier, where they worship Taytacha (Father Earth, Jesus, the Virgin Mary and the powerful Apu, deities that inhabit the four surrounding mountains (Ausagante, Hunacauri, Qanyaqway, and Colquepunku). This is an 8-kilometer trek that combines hiking with a purely spiritual experience.

Experience #2: A Wild Amazon Adventure In Iquitos

Go beyond eco-tourism with a transformative and unforgettable travel immersion to the Amazon Rainforest to experience the journey of a lifetime. Float further into the depths of the Amazonian rainforest, where you'll enjoy activities like piranha fishing, jungle trekking, and wildlife watching. Iquitos, known as the largest city in the world without any roads leading to it, where the only way to get there is by catching a flight or taking a very long boat trip. An adventure to Peru is not complete if you don't visit the amazon rainforest or sail across the Amazon River.

Experience #3: See The Andean Condor Flying In All Its Splendor At The Colca Canyon

As one of the world's deepest canyons, the Colca Canyon is a breathtaking wonder that offers so much more than panoramic views. With archaeological sites, ancient rock art, hot springs, colorful villages, and unique wildlife like the Andean condor, make this region a perfect experience to add to any Peruvian itinerary.

Experience #4: An Epic Trip Aboard The Luxurious Belmond Andean Explorer

Sometimes, the time required to transfer between one destination to another is seen as a necessary evil. Still, a journey aboard the Belmond Andean Explorer is a surprising and delightful epic adventure. Departing from Cusco, this luxury train traverses the Peruvian highlands on a 3-day / 2-nights journey to Arequipa.

You will have the chance to appreciate spectacular views, such as the sunset over the La Raya mountain, and explore the Lake Titicaca's floating islands and the 8000-year old rock art of Sumbay Caves. Introducing a relaxing ambiance to any Peru itinerary, the train's sleeper cabins, and an exquisitely decorated interior encourage guests to have a drink in the passing scenery, enjoy a spa treatment or have a chat with new friends over a Pisco Sour in the piano bar.

Experience #5: An Unique Stay In the Sacred Valley's Skylodge

The exclusive Skylodge Adventure Suites offers you the chance to sleep within a completely transparent hanging bedroom suite that allows you to appreciate the impressive view of this magic and mystical valley. As committing to a trip that is off the beaten path, sometimes it involves a bit of courage and willingness to get creative with accommodation options, and this, for sure, will fit both aspects. With suites for up to four travelers, a private bathroom, and privacy curtains, these transparent domes boast a fantastic way to experience the Sacred Valley.

Experience #6: Take A surfing Lesson Or Relax With The Family At Mancora Beach

The rule of the three "S," surf, sand, and sun, can be correctly applied to this beautiful place, which was the inspiration of Ernest Hemingway's novel 'The old man and the sea.' At Mancora, you will find the wildest point break beaches for catching waves and get in touch with nature and your stay.

This place is perfect for searching for the migration of the humpback whales from Antarctica in August through November and keeping an eye for the countless dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, and frigate birds that grace the warm Pacific waters. The surfing lessons with the locals is such a spiritual experience that can't be missed during your visit.

Experience #7: Fly Over The Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are, without a doubt, a massive topic of debate because of how large and intricate they are. Many people have speculated how they were able to create such perfect drawings without being able to see them from above, which is the only way to see the pictures. Some even believe aliens created the lines, but we'll never know for sure!

These experiences are a nice mixture of nature, people, and culture in a unique way during your visit to Peru. If you're looking for a trip of a lifetime with incredible experiences, let us know your travel style, and we'll design a tour just for you.