Peru

Welcome to Peru

Peru is an elongated shaped country in South America that borders Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia and Brazil. Both the Amazon and the majestic snowy Andes mountains cover a large part of the country. A trip through Peru takes you to imposing cities, bustling local markets, evergreen rainforests with immense jungle rivers, vast desert landscapes and Peruvian villages where it seems as if time has stood still. Peru also has a long coastline on the Pacific Ocean. Add to that the famous archaeological highlights of the Inca period like the ruins of Machu Picchu and the mysterious Nazca lines and you will understand why Peru is on the bucket list of many travelers. The Spanish colonial architecture in Arequipa and Cuzco will also make for lasting memories of your journey through Peru. The diversity of this South American country in terms of nature, culture, history, landscapes and peoples seems almost unlimited.

Natural and cultural diversity

Whether you like adventure or relaxation, Peru is without doubt an absolute dream destination. And in recent years, the image of this country has become increasingly prolific. After spending a few days in Peru, it’ll soon become clear that this is a versatile country. One moment you’ll hike a tropical rainforest, and on the other moment you set foot in a desert. While the natural landscapes across the country are amazing, the diverse and authentic Peruvian people give the country its fascinating color and charm.

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Peru Highlights

Machu Picchu

Hidden between the high peaks of the Andes are the majestic ruins of the sacred Inca city of Machu Picchu. Enclosed between these mountains, it remained undiscovered to the Spanish colonizers. It was only discovered much later. The steep path to reach this site is still intact and can be hiked via the spectacular, but tough Inca Trail. There are several theories about the purpose of this ancient city, but the most plausible one is that it was a country retreat for royalty and other high-ranking people. The scenic and beautiful surroundings is almost more impressive than the city itself. Machu Picchu is a highlight of South America and a visit will be very memorable.

Lima

Located on the Pacific Ocean, Lima deserves to be discovered. This is an old city and was founded by the Spanish as “Ciudad de los Reyes”, City of Kings. You can still find remnants of that time throughout the city. In the historic center you can stroll along the Plaza de Armas and the Saint Francis Monastery. The Pueblo Libre district is home to the interesting Larco Museum which has a beautiful flower garden is an oasis of peace. Tens of thousands of art treasures are displayed in the museum, including a large collection of ceramics from ancient cultures. Not only the well-known Inca culture, but also works and art of the Chimu, Moche and Chachapoyas people from Northern Peru are displayed here.

Peruvian Amazonia

The enormous Amazon rainforest covers no less than half of the total area of Peru. Some of the world’s most spectacular flora and fauna can be found in this area. It teems with wildlife. There are various national parks that cover this rainforest with tons of activities and animals to observe. Manu National Park is the largest protected natural area in Peru and a true paradise for every bird and nature lover. Sailing up the jungle rivers you will undoubtedly come face to face with caimans, monkeys, giant otters and perhaps one of the most sought after wildlife: the jaguar! Thousands of colorful macaws also gather daily on the famous clay licks.

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The Nazca lines

The Nazca lines are located to the south of Lima and consist of about three hundred drawings, straight lines, and motifs, carved into the ground, including the figures of a monkey, bird, llama and lizard. These can be seen from a small plane. Since their discovery in the 1930s they have turned out to be one of the most impressive and puzzling finds in ancient Peru. It is still not exactly clear what the lines mean, but they seem to have some astronomical purpose. If you’re into history and culture, this area is not to missed.

Arequipa

The colonial town of Arequipa in the south of the country is located at the foot of the majestic Misti volcano, surrounded by high deserts, thermal hot springs, salt lakes and the world's deepest canyons. Built from white volcanic rock, the city houses old colonial churches, atmospheric squares and the beautiful Santa Catalina monastery with its colorful alleys and patios. A visit to the museum of the famous ice mummy Juanita, sacrificed to the mountain gods by the Incas at the time, is a must. The mountainous backdrop from in the city is also beautiful.

Colca Canyon

The route to the Colca Canyon is spectacular and a trek here will definitely be one of the highlights of your trip in Peru. It is the second deepest canyon in the world, making it even deeper than the Grand Canyon in the US. You’ll see snowy volcanoes, high mountain passes and beautiful vistas. When walking here shepherds with herds of llamas and alpacas will pass you by. Small and hospitable villages of native people are scattered throughout this area. Their colorful dresses and ways of life are fascinating to learn about. And if you’re lucky you’ll catch glimpses of the enormous condors that soar over these gorges.

Cuzco

The city of Cuzco, one of the most beautiful cities in South America, is definitely worth a visit during your trip to Peru. In the city center, Spanish colonial mansions, monasteries and baroque churches are built on top of foundations of Inca ruins. You will be amazed when you stroll through the streets and alleyways of this beautiful city. Its bustling heart is formed by the impressive Plaza de Armas and the atmosphere is authentic. Most trips to Machu Picchu begin in Cuzco, but there are also a number of impressive Inca sites in the vicinity that are worth a visit.

Peruvian Cuisine

Peruvian cuisine is becoming more and more popular these days. It is a varied kitchen influenced by different traditional foods. In addition to many street food and simple restaurants, you can go trendy culinary in many places. There is also no shortage of top-class restaurants in Lima and Cuzco. Peru has a rich, varied cuisine that encompasses meat, fresh fish, various types of potato, all kinds of varieties of corn, quinoa and many distinctive fruits. One very famous dish is the Peruvian ceviche, which is raw fish cooked in lime, red pepper and onion. But also typical for Peru is eating llama meat and, for the more adventurous,

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