I think I have posted in the past about different places of Peru.. "beyond Machu Picchu".

Cusco and MP is worthwhile even if it's crowded. But Peru has lot of beautiful or interesting places. Of course it depends on what you like or looking for (surf, jungle, trekking, archeology, bird watching.. the list is long!). My point is.. even though Cusco is the best, a trip to Peru without MP or Cusco is still great.

Cajamarca has been complicated this year because of social troubles (mining conflicts), but it's beautiful. Though Huaraz valley is my favorite. Lot of hidden lagoons, trekking, ancient ruins, snowy mountains.

This website posts interesting travel articles. Check it!
http://www.peruthisweek.com/travel/


I've been in lot of places of Peru so feel free to ask (I'm in Tumbes beaches, north coast, right now )