Things to do in  South Coast

A cluster of tiny islands off the Peruvian coast, the Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas) are often touted as the “Peruvian Galapagos,” famed for their spectacular variety of birdlife and rugged coastline of soaring cliffs, rocky beaches, and remote sea caves. Wildlife you can spot here includes guano birds, penguins, sea lions, and other marine birds, so leave plenty of time to visit if you’re a naturalist.

After the iconic Machu Picchu, the enigmatic Nazca Lines are one of Peru’s most famous archaeological sites. The mysterious geoglyphs at the UNESCO World Heritage Site range from geometric shapes and swirls to a hummingbird and monkeys. Theories on their purpose include astronomical markers, irrigation canals, and alien messages—a mystery that has baffled archaeologists since their discovery in the early 20th century. Though they were found relatively recently, the etchings are estimated to date back thousands of years.

The swanky beachfront suburb of Miraflores is one of Lima’s most sought-after zip codes. Here you’ll find the city’s best restaurants, shops, and hotels, plus waterfront mansions and high-rise towers that boast panoramic views of the Pacific. Lovely parks and beaches dot the area, and you'll find the ancient ruins of Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Columbian temple and ceremonial center dating back to the 5th century, here as well.

Peru's Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world, with a depth of around 13,650 feet (4,160 meters)—for context, it's twice as deep as the United States' Grand Canyon. Outdoor adventurers flock to Canon del Colca for its otherworldly trekking trails, large population of Andean condors (Cruz del Condor is the best place to spot them), and its pre-Incan historical sites.

Covering more than 2,000 square miles (3,350 square kilometers), the landscapes of Paracas National Reserve span desert and ocean. The terracotta cliffs overlooking the Pacific are a spectacular sight, while the rich diversity of wildlife also inspires wonder—time your visit right and you can spot Humboldt penguins, humpback whales, sea lions, and Peruvian boobies.

The active Chachani Volcano, near Arequipa in southern Peru, is known amongst the climbing set as one of the world’s easiest 20,000-foot (6,075-meter) climbs. Still, reaching the summit is considered an intermediate to challenging two-day climb. At the top, marvel at the sight of the Pacific Ocean and the spectacular Andes mountainscape.

Tacama Vineyard (Hacienda Bodega Tacama) has been making wine and traditional Peruvian pisco since the 16th century, making it one of the oldest wineries in South America. You can wander among rows of lush green vines, visit the cellar to learn more about the production processes, and sample special varieties of pisco and white wine during a tasting session led by a sommelier.

Sabandía is marked by rural plains, rolling hills, and historic landmarks, making this southern Arequipa province in Peru a draw. Among the highlights are the district’s traditional shops and restaurants, and the chance to see the Sabandía Mill, built in 1621 with the region’s signature white volcanic rock (sillar) and populated by animals such as alpaca and peacocks.

Even though it’s estimated to have formed more than 20 million years ago, the Canyon of the Lost (Cañón de los Perdidos) in Ica was only discovered in 2011, so it’s still one of southern Peru’s best-kept secrets. Erosion has created a rippled effect on the edges of the canyon and also carved out rock formations reminiscent of animals and objects.

Part of the ruggedly beautiful Paracas National Reserve, Playa La Mina and its sheltered waters offer respite from the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean—making it the area’s best place to swim. The beach is flanked by rocky ledges with views of the Pacific, and visitors are allowed to camp overnight, so you can enjoy being lulled to sleep by the sound of the ocean.

Built deep beneath the desert of Nazca in southern Peru, the Cantalloc Aqueducts (Acueductos de Cantalloc) are a marvel of engineering from the ancient Nazca culture. Thought to have been constructed more than 1,500 years ago, these subterranean waterways offer a glimpse into this pre-Inca period.

Nestled among the rocky undulations of the Colca Valley in southern Peru, Chivay is a quaint and charming village 11,975 feet (3,650 meters) above sea level. The heart of this small settlement is Chivay Plaza de Armas, a square home to a historic church and a stunning mountain backdrop. It’s the perfect place for people watching, to stop for refreshments, or for a break after hiking the Colca Canyon.