
In Quechua, the language closest to that of the Inca, Peru means the ‘land of abundance.’ Peru is full of extremes: from lush, towering Andean peaks to rolling sand dunes on the coast to the largest, most diverse rainforest in the world, the Amazon jungle. Peru is also rich in pre-Columbian culture with millions of citizens in the Andes mountains who still live, speak and work the way their ancestors did thousands of years ago.
On the Pacific coast of South America, between Ecuador and Bolivia and west of Brazil, Peru ranks among the world’s top producers of silver, copper, lead and zinc. The Amazon makes up half of the Peru, the Andes mountains occupy a third and the rest is coastal desert.
Some things not to miss on your trip to Peru:
Cusco, Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail offer a glimpse into the mysterious and fascinating history of the Incas.
Lake Titicaca is the world's highest navigable lake spanning from Peru to the border with Bolivia with over 30 islands, some inhabited with cultures dating back to the pre-Colombian era.
The Nazca Lines on the Pacific coast are an unexplained world wonder. Lines etched into the landscape in the form of animals, geometric figures and a pair of hands.
The Amazon Basin is home to a plethora of diverse flora and fauna. Tourism is just starting to catch on in this area; you can take a boat tour or stay in a lodge.
The Cordillera Blanca and Huascaran National Park are some of the world's premier trekking and mountain climbing destinations, loaded with dozens of spectacular towering white peaks.
Booking a tour is highly recommendable to make the most of your time, see:
All Peru Tours
Machu Picchu Tours
Sacred Valley Tours
Cordillera Blanca Trekking and Tours
Cusco Tours
Perched forebodingly in the hillsides rising above Cusco, the fortress ruins of Sacsayhuamán are some of the most impressive and closest ruins in the area. Though few structures now remain inside,
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In the indigenous language Quechua, Cumbe Mayo means fine river, which is a quite fitting name for this ancient aqueduct. It is located about 12 miles southwest of Cajamarca, and stretches on for
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An image carved into the sandstone cliffs along the Pisco Bay is said to be one of the most mysterious archeological sights in South America. It is often called the Candelabra de los Andes, which
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In Southern Peru, Arequipa and the Colca Canyon offer plenty to keep travelers occupied for several days, with spectacular scenery, fascinating history and a large number of outdoor activities to
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The Sacred Valley is the valley west of the sloping edges of the mountain town of Cusco. This area is rich, not only in fields, farms and views, but also in ancient Inca ruins. The famous ruins at
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Nestled among spectacular snow-capped mountains and decorated with quaint Andean villages and Inca Ruins, the Sacred Valley and Cusco area tempt visitors with their cultural charm and natural
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Machu Picchu and the Inca ruins may claim most of Peru's popularity, but the Amazon Basin boasts most of Peru's land space. Much of the Peruvian Amazon Basin is untouched, but tourism is beginning to
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Characterized by rugged ascents boasting magnificent views of Andean scenery and trails that wind their way through the cloud forest and past ancient archaeological sites, the Inca Trail is perhaps
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In terms of trekking opportunities in the Sacred Valley, this one requires a bit more physical and logistical preparation. The crowning jewel of the Salcantay trek is Nevado Salcantay (6,271 meters),
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The alternative trek takes in three more unusual, quieter campsites along the route, largely away from other tourists. On the alternative Salcantay trek, many choose to take transport further along
...I spent only two weeks in Peru and saw mostly the tourist sites (We are tourists, after all.). The Lima traffic is crazy, and the pollution is awful compared to the northeast US, where I live. Staying with a relative in Barranco allowed me to visit great local restaurants small museums and art galleries, as well as walking neighborhoods and dealing with the local stores for household items. The neighborhoods on the coast have much cleaner air, and are more upscale than some of the inland/ downtown areas.In Cuzco and the Sacred Valley our tour operator took good care of us and we had a great, hassle free experience.
This was a small, calm beach town with friendly, helpful locals, miles of beautiful sand, and rich cultural traditions that combine pre-Incan civilizations with ceviche, and fishing in reed boats. It had a fun but relaxing atmosphere; it was close to the big city of Trujillo and to a number of important archaeological sites. A great place to learn to surf or for professionals to practice.
I love the fact that the culture is so mixed up between the Spanish and the indigenous cultures, with a dash of others mixed in! It's sad because of the poverty levels... But it has a beauty to it that makes you feel alive.
Peru is really stunning, especially the Sacred Valley area.
The people were warm and friendly.
They'll take your money... in any possible way, be careful.
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