When people think of visiting Peru, they usually think of places like Machu Picchu, Cusco, and Lima.

Machu Picchu is the most famous archaeological site in South America, attracting lots of visitors every day. It's worth seeing, especially if it's your first time in Peru.

But if you want to explore more and learn about everything Peru underrated destinations has to offer, there are lots of other things to do.

You can try the amazing food Peru is famous for, visit ancient ruins, meet indigenous communities, swim with penguins, and much more.

Here are some Peru hidden gems that you should not miss:

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Arequipa

Even though Arequipa is Peru's second-biggest city, many people don't visit it as much as Lima or Cuzco.

It's located near the Andes Mountains, with three big volcanoes nearby, Kuoda Travel noted.

Arequipa has beautiful views, especially with its old-fashioned buildings made from white volcanic stone.

That's why it's called 'the white city' and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The cathedral in the main square is very famous and looks amazing.

Arequipa is also a great place to try Peruvian food.

After spending some time here, you'll wonder why more people don't talk about it."

Colca Canyon

Colca Canyon is the world's second-deepest canyon, going down about 3,400 meters.

It's big and has amazing views because it stretches for many miles through the High Andes.

Explore numerous hiking trails and observe famous birds like kestrels and peregrine falcons in Colca Canyon.

However, the highlight is spotting Andean Condors, among the world's largest flying birds.

Experience ancient, terraced hills still cultivated by locals and visit charming villages with vibrant houses nearby.

Huacachina

Have you ever thought about snowboarding in the desert?

Huacachina is the perfect spot for that! It's a cool place right in the middle of huge sand dunes, and the best thing to do there is sandboarding.

The town was made around a lake in the 1930s, and some people say there's a mermaid living in the water.

So, if you want to try sandboarding and maybe see the mermaid, come to Huacachina!"

Tambopata National Reserve

If you want to explore a rainforest during your trip to Peru, you should visit Tambopata National Reserve, according to By Britton Perelman.

This special place in southern Peru has a lot to offer. It has over 1,700 types of plants, 1,000 kinds of butterflies, 600 different birds, 100 types of mammals, and 90 kinds of amphibians.

Tambopata is one of the biggest areas of protected rainforest in the world.

You can go on hikes, boat rides on the river, and walk on trails high up in the trees to see this amazing place up close.

And make sure you don't miss the macaws and other animals eating clay.

Tambopata has more of these clay licks than anywhere else in the world.

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This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

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