The Paracas National Reserve is a stunning wildlife hub on the coastline, covering over 335,000 hectares. It is truly magical to see the Pacific Ocean and the desert meet and see rugged cliffs and golden dunes fall into flamingo-filled shores. If you are up for an adventure, hop on a boat and take a tour of the Islas Ballestas (the Peruvian Galapagos) and enjoy the Humboldt penguins splashing in the blue waters… if you are lucky, you may be saluted by a blue whale or two. 

Since 2012, Central has been featured in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. After climbing its way to the top, in 2023, they finally celebrated being the best in the world. Central, run by chef Virgilio Martinez, is all about Peru’s varied ecosystems and the ingredients that live on the shores of the Amazon, in the highest peaks of the Andes and the oceanic currents of the coastal region. Central has mind-blowing tasting and drinking menus, inspired by the altitudes that vary in the country. Although it is pretty hard to get a reservation, you should try it all: a table in this life-changing culinary travesty is worth it.

Sala Osma is an exuberant bar and venue loved by those in their thirties or older. Visit this beloved place when in need of grooving to some 2000s jams (or some salsa) with a beer in hand. You will love the joyful ambience, the sometimes live music and the crowd. Perfect for an outing with multiple couples or a big group of friends eager to dance the night away. 

Mérito is a spot hidden in the colourful streets of Barranco that has been and continues to be on the list of 50 of the best restaurants in Latin America and the world. This place will enamour those who find pleasure in aesthetics, colour and symmetry, but also those who love to explore new flavours. This gem of a place serves ingredients from all the regions of Peru, mixes them and fuses various cultural techniques. The food in Mérito will make you intrigued, surprised, nostalgic and above all, will make you wonder how it was possibly made.