Machu Picchu might headline every Peru travel list, but the real soul of Peru lies in its living traditions, ancient customs, and vibrant communities. From spirited festivals in the Andes to Afro-Peruvian rhythms on the coast, the country offers more than one way to step back in time. If you’re looking to connect with Peru beyond Machu Picchu, here are ten meaningful cultural experiences in Peru that belong on your itinerary.
1. Celebrate Inti Raymi in Cusco
Every June, the streets of Cusco explode with color for Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun. This Inca-inspired celebration honors Inti, the sun god, and features a grand reenactment at Sacsayhuamán. With ceremonial processions, traditional music, and elaborate costumes, it’s a full sensory plunge into ancient Andean cosmology.
Curious about Cusco’s modern side? Check out our blog on what to do in Cusco city.
2. Visit Weaving Communities in the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is more than ruins—it’s home to living cultures. In towns like Chinchero and Ollantaytambo, you’ll find artisan communities preserving centuries-old weaving techniques. A visit here isn’t just about shopping; it’s a deep dive into how Peru’s history is told thread by thread.
Want to learn more? Don’t miss our feature on The Art of Weaving in the Sacred Valley.
3. Feast on a Pachamanca
Pachamanca is an ancient Andean method of cooking meat and vegetables underground with hot stones. It’s not just about the food—it’s about community, tradition, and honoring Pachamama (Mother Earth). Sharing a Pachamanca meal is one of the most immersive ways to connect with Peru traditions.
4. Feel the Rhythm of Afro-Peruvian Culture in Chincha
Head south to Chincha and you’ll hear the pulsing beat of the cajón before you see the dancers. This coastal town is the heart of Afro-Peruvian culture. With vibrant music, energetic dance, and mouth-watering cuisine, it’s a vital part of Peru’s cultural mosaic often overlooked by mainstream tourism.
5. Meet the Uros on Lake Titicaca
The floating islands of Lake Titicaca are home to the Uros people, who have built their communities entirely from totora reeds. Walking on these buoyant islands and hearing the Uros language spoken is a striking reminder of the innovation and resilience embedded in Peru beyond Machu Picchu.
6. Explore Indigenous Traditions in the Amazon
In the Peruvian Amazon, communities like the Shipibo-Conibo welcome travelers to learn about medicinal plants, shamanic rituals, and intricate textile arts. This is off-grid cultural immersion at its finest—and one of the best ways to experience Peru’s Indigenous depth firsthand.
Read more about planning your Amazon adventure.
7. Dance the Marinera in Trujillo
The northern city of Trujillo is home to the Marinera Festival, a lively celebration of Peru’s national dance. With its flirtatious footwork and swooping handkerchiefs, the Marinera tells a story of love and courtship through motion. Whether you watch or join in, it’s pure joy.
8. Join the Virgen de la Candelaria Festival in Puno
Held each February, Virgen de la Candelaria is one of the biggest cultural festivals in Peru. Centered in Puno, this event features thousands of dancers and musicians parading through the streets in brilliant traditional dress. It’s an explosion of Andean-Catholic syncretism that captures the spirit of the highlands.
9. Tour the Ancient City of Chan Chan
Just outside Trujillo lies Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Touring this pre-Incan site gives you insight into the Chimu civilization and reminds you that Peru’s past stretches far beyond the Inca.
Pair this with a surf lesson in Huanchaco, just down the road. We cover this mix of history and beach culture in The Gringo Trail.
10. Taste Peru in Lima’s Culinary Scene
Peruvian cuisine is a blend of Indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences, and nowhere is that more evident than in Lima. From street food tours in Miraflores to Nikkei fusion tasting menus, the capital is a cultural experience you can savor. Don’t skip the ceviche.
Hungry already? Bookmark our guide to 2025 Lima’s Top Restaurants.
Want to Explore Peru?
From weaving looms to festival streets, the cultural depth of Peru is staggering. If you’re looking for something deeper than a bucket-list snapshot, you’re in the right place.
Book your expedition now and let us help you discover the real Peru—beyond Machu Picchu.
