Peru UNESCO Tours

UNESCO Sites in Peru You Should Visit

Cusco

Founded by the Inca ruler Pachacutec in the 15th century, Cusco became the political and cultural center of the Inca Empire. Today, the city showcases remarkably preserved Inca stonework, with massive stones fitted precisely into walls that have endured centuries of earthquakes and weather. Just outside the city, sites such as Sacsayhuamán further highlight Cusco’s importance during Inca times.

After the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, colonial churches and buildings were constructed atop Inca foundations, creating a distinctive blend of Inca and Spanish architecture that defines this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Arequipa

Arequipa is known for its striking colonial architecture built from white volcanic stone, earning it the nickname “The White City.” Baroque façades and neoclassical churches are integrated with indigenous masonry throughout the historic center.

Beyond the city itself, the surrounding landscapes contribute to Arequipa’s UNESCO designation. The city sits in the shadow of El Misti volcano, whose snow-capped peak dominates the skyline and shapes both the geography and cultural identity of the region.

Nazca Lines

Spread across roughly 450 square kilometers of desert, the Nazca Lines are a series of enormous geoglyphs depicting animals, plants, and geometric shapes. Created between 400 and 650 AD, their purpose remains debated, with theories ranging from religious rituals to astronomical alignment.

The best way to experience the Nazca Lines is from the air, where short scenic flights reveal the immense scale and precision of these UNESCO-protected designs.

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Built in the 15th century under the rule of Pachacutec, the citadel sits at 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level amid the forested peaks of the Andes.

Its sophisticated stone construction and dramatic mountain setting make Machu Picchu one of the most visually striking and culturally significant archaeological sites in the world.