Big Sur Machu Picchu

Why South of Peru Is Called The Big Sur

Apr 21, 2023 | Peru Travel Blogs | 0 comments

The Big Sur Machu Picchu Peru. Does it sound like a familiar name to you? Well, I think so; The Big Sur is in California in the United States. But let me tell you now about the Peruvian version of the Big Sur and what should be on your bucket list.

Big Sur in Peru and Machu Picchu is the ultimate destination in South America. It is a multi-day trip and tour before you visit Machu Picchu. South of Peru is home to incredible landscapes, outdoor adventure activities, and a bucket list of popular tours in Peru such as the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca (the highest navigable lake in the world), and the Amazon rainforest tours.

Having only passed through the south of Peru, it is really exciting to stay at Sky Lodges overnight to explore more in-depth and go hiking in heaven.

Where Is Located The Original Big Sur?

Big Sur is located in California and, maybe the ultimate Pacific coastal destination. It is an iconic stop along Highway 1 and home to incredible restaurants, outdoor adventures, and a bucket list. I have only really passed through Big Sur and I am excited to stay overnight to explore.

How To Get There? 

Highway 1 winds its way along this coastline, and numerous turnoffs allow for panoramic views of the Pacific Sea, its deep blue ocean waves, and, in the spring, the spouts of migrating whales offshore.

A whole day is needed to get from Monterey to Los Angeles by the coastal Highway 1, which passes Hearst Castle—a good afternoon stop-off site.

Related: Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu

Let’s Get Back To This Blog Post Called Machu Picchu is Located in The Big Sur of Peru

I’m sharing this travel guide to Peru’s Big Sur in hopes that you’ll be inspired to do the same. To travel a bit slower, to travel deeper, and soak in all that this Peruvian Andean attraction has to offer. It’s an unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed.

If you decide to take the Inca Trail or any of the other tours, make sure you spend some extra time in the Cusco City of the Big Sur to appreciate all it has to offer. From breathtaking views and thrilling outdoor adventures to delicious local food, this is a must-see destination!

Getting Connection with Local Native People and Original Peruvian Landscapes

Here has a deep connection with its natural surroundings. Home to Rainbow Mountains such as Rainbow Mountain ( Vinicunca ), and Palcoyo rainbow mountain, and expansive views of the Cordillera of the Andes, Big Sur in Peru may be just the ultimate place to experience outdoor activities. 

It’s the best of the three natural worlds: snow-capped mountain sceneries, the lush Amazon jungle, and, of course, the Pacific Ocean at Paracas National Park in Lima Barranco. Along the way, you’ll find these hidden gems.

RELATED: Best National Parks in Peru

Why Are Most Of Our Visitors Referring To Visit The Big Sur Peruvian Version?

Don’t call me a separatist, please! I love my country. But I will try to explain why you should visit the southern part of Peru instead of the northern or central parts of Peru.

Of course, Peru has many cultural and natural attractions, such as the Cordillera Huarhuash Center of Peru, seasonal Amazon River cruises north of Peru including Chachapoyas (the capital of the Amazonas region), and the Lord of Sipan located in Northern Peru in the Lambayeque Valley.

But if you start browsing on Google looking for the best tours in Peru, or “Peru Tours,” “Best Peru Destination,” etc., Machu Picchu, the Inca city, and probably Rainbow Mountain and Nazca Lines in Peru will automatically appear. All of these Peruvian monuments and natural attractions are located in the south of Peru.

Here, I will start by Mentioning The Most Attractive Places That Peru Has In The South of Peru.

LIMA

As soon as you land in Lima, the capital of Peru, I can affirm that you may stay a couple of days in Lima City or maybe not. But my answer about the biggest tourist attractions in Peru begins with Paracas National (the Peruvian Galapagos), Nazca Lines, and Huacachina, which is located in the southern part of Lima and marks the beginning of the Big Sur in Peru.

Arequipa

Peru will always be a place close to your heart. On your first visit to this beautiful country, you ended up overstaying your visa and spending more days traveling, because there is so much to do!

Arequipa is the second largest region in Peru. Here, this colonial-style place is something new to discover that makes you fall in love all over again. The city of Arequipa is one of the many highlights of visiting Peru.

It has earned the nickname “White City” or “Ciudad de Blanco” due to the white Sillar rock used to build many of the city’s buildings. The architecture featuring this white volcanic stone is stunning, particularly in the Main Square and the streets around it.

The city is a great place to stay if you plan to visit Colca Canyon, which happens to be one of the deepest canyons in the world. With breathtaking views and fascinating wildlife, a multi-day tour of the canyon promises to be an adventure of a lifetime.

Cusco

Cusco is a city located in the Peruvian Andes that served as the capital of the Inca Empire in the past. Today, it is known for its archaeological remains and Spanish colonial architecture.

The central square in the old city is called Plaza de Armas, and it features arcades, carved wooden balconies, and Incan wall ruins. On top of the Incan Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha) stands the baroque Santo Domingo Convent, which contains archaeological remains of Inca stonework.

Cusco Day Tours

Cusco Valley South Tour, Rainbow Mountain, and red valley tour, Palcoyo rainbow mountain Tour, Day Trip to 7 Lagoons Ausangate 

I think that all destinations mentioned in this article must be added to your bucket list when traveling to Peru. But don’t forget also to include other attractions such as the Amazonas Rainforest, the Paracas National Park, and Huacachina, which are worth visiting.

Machu Picchu the Big Sur In Peru

The Inca city of Machu Picchu is one of the most popular attractions in Peru, and it’s easy to see why as soon as you get there. As it is located in the south of Peru, you will be able to make a lot of different day trips from Cusco or Ollantaytambo.

Big Sur South of Peru is a great place to explore the culture and nature it has to offer with its amazing landscapes. Don’t miss out on this Peruvian Big Sur adventure! Get ready for your next trip south and make the most out of it.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and book your tickets now! It’s time to explore and live an incredible journey in Peru’s Big Sur.

Trekkings Tours Cusco

Inca Trail Tour, Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, Lares Valley Trek to Machu Picchu.

MACHU PICCHU

  • Lares trek for 4 days
  • Classic Inca Trail 4 days 
  • Ausangate trek 4D/3N
  • Salkanaty Trek 5 days 

Amazon

Peru, the land of the Incas, is one of the best countries for Amazon Rainforest tours.

You will walk through the rainforest to see colorful parrots and curious monkeys. Enjoy a high chance of spotting jaguars on certain Amazon tours in Peru (see below).

And you can even find the rainforest’s most luxurious lodges and cruises. Nestled by Peru’s protected rainforest, you can also choose the deepest lodges in Amazonia.

We will mention these below – and we will include short video guides, tour summaries, and the differences between experiences.

Tours

  1. Puerto Maldonado Tours
  2. Manu National Park Tours 4D/3N, 
  3. Puerto Maldonado Tour 5D/4N

Puno

Is Lake Titicaca in Puno worth visiting? The fact that this massive lake, shared by Peru and Bolivia, is the highest navigable lake in the world contributes to its popularity. Lying at 3,810 m (12,500 feet) above sea level in the Andes, it is recommended to visit it after getting acclimatized either in Arequipa or Cusco.

Hotels and Food

It is the local restaurants that are sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and taking inspiration from what is around them. Hotels have a deep sense of connection and preservation for the natural beauty that they call home. All of this makes Peru’s Big Sur, well, Big Sur.

It’s enchanting and the best way to experience it is by staying a bit longer, traveling slower, and soaking it all in.

Extended Travel Guide Before You Visit Peru’s, Big Sur 

Responsible And Safe Travel in Peru

If this year has revealed anything as a traveler, it’s that collectively we must be more conscious of our decisions. Conscious of our impact on a local community, conscious of our footprint left in nature, and conscious of how we can be more responsible travelers. Here are a few things to consider:

Hiking in Peru – Bathrooms Are Limited

The sides of the trails are not toilets or places to dump any trash. You’ll find open bathrooms in the official camping sites. While you visit the Peruvian National Parks, you should pay entrance fees in advance. Leave no trace: Pack it in, pack it out.

Camping

Camping etiquette is important to note here. Be sure to camp legally, always extinguish fire pits or water them after use, and dispose of cigarettes in ashtrays, or better yet, don’t smoke at all. Fire safety is crucial when camping in the Andes Mountains.

Stick to The Designated Hiking Trails.

Always have a mask on you and wear it when it is needed. Peruvian ordinance requires a mask when you cannot socially distance. So even on the Inca Trail hikes, you must carry a mask with you.

How Much Time Is Needed In Peru Big Sur?

For an extended stay in Peru, I would highly recommend a minimum of 10 nights. You’ll find that the South of Peru has a lot of attractions. If you plan on going as far south as Puno Region Lake Titicaca, you may want to consider extra time or just make your plans ahead.

Peru’s Big Sur has a lot of outdoor activities, and my one takeaway is that you could spend two weeks there and not see it all. Spending the day doing the Cusco City Tour is also a wonderful option if you’re staying at the hotels.

Not everything has to be a hiking adventure!!!

Other Important Travel Tips Before Visiting South of Peru

Some other travel tips for those visiting South Peru for the first time:

Cell service: Cell service is incredibly limited to hiking in the Cordillera mountains. My recommendation is to save offline Google Maps or Maps Me App for the area and start any locations you plan on visiting.

Driving: The south highway (Panamericana Sur) is windy and the weather is unpredictable. Please drive responsibly and use turnouts that are large enough to stop at when you decide to pull over.

Best Time of Year to Visit Big Sur: I would consider Peru a year-round destination. The winter months are high season, you may have colder nights, but it is still pleasant enough to be outside.

Photography Tip: Sunset is the best time of day for a light above the mountains.

Conclusion

Machu Picchu Peru Big Sur is a breathtaking sight to behold, and it’s located in the Big Sur of Peru. It’s an unforgettable experience that will stay with you forever. Whether choose to hike the Inca Trail or a more leisurely approach, your journey to Machu Picchu will be one you’ll never forget. So if you’re looking for a unique adventure, put Machu Picchu in Peru at the top of your bucket list! It’s an experience that’s truly beyond comparison.

From its stunning mountain views to its incredible archaeological sites, Big Sur of Peru is a must-visit destination – and Machu Picchu is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular and memorable places to explore. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or just an unforgettable vacation, Peru’s Big Sur has something for everyone! So what are you waiting for? Get out there and experience it all!

This blog post ends here. Now take the plunge and visit Machu Picchu in Peru yourself! You won’t regret it.

Happy travels!

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Cesar Conde

Cesar Conde

Position: Tour Leaders & Digital Creator

I’m Cesar Conde, owner of Tour Leaders Peru & Travel Advisor and my other side job is Nomadic Digital. I share my own amazing Tour Experiences, travel stories, guides, and itineraries for travelers like you and me!

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