Perú Tours & Travel Destinations

Peru, land of the legendary Inca Empire, has retained much of its mythical feel. The cultural capital of Cuzco provides a glimpse into the country’s proud history, as the center of the Sacred Valley and the explorer’s base for the lost city of Machu Picchu. The Quechua and Aymara, descendants of the Incas, weave threads of their culture with Spanish influences to create a rich Peruvian culture of art, architecture and music. A Peruvian traveler has the opportunity to watch the sun set on the Pacific, climb the highest peak in the snow-capped Andes, and catch a glimpse of the pink river dolphin in the Amazon River.

Facts

First of all, it is a good idea to know some general knowledge about Peru. For example, the country is home to 32.9 million inhabitants. While the capital of Peru, called Lima, is home to about 9,674,755 inhabitants. In other words, the capital represents almost 30% of the total population. Peru is the third-largest country in South America, after Argentina and Brazil. It has an area of about 1,285,216 square kilometers. Besides, thanks to its extensive cultural wealth, some 48 native or indigenous languages of Peru are known. Where about 44 would be Amazonian and another 4 from the Peruvian Andes. Still, this number is also often discussed and debated among academics

Lima

Lima City (the Capital of Peru) has in its essence streets the trace that left the colonial era and vitality that overflows its streets; in the winter the weather is generally cloudy with light rain, while the summers are filled with the best views on the horizon, with the sea breeze. Urban sprawl new streets, and quiet elegant corners among ancient buildings. The night air is scented with a unique essence that gives a feel of an incomparable tranquility.

Paracas

Just south of Lima, Paracas is on the coast. Traditionally a fishing town the industry still thrives today. While in Paracas visit the fascinating Ballestas Islands full of sea birds and pass the Candelarbia, an etching carved in the side of the hill.

Nazca

Located in the middle of the desert, Nazca is a charming little town which experiences good weather all year round. Just outside of town are the famous Nazca Line, thousands upon thousands of lines and figures etched in the desert floor. The best way to view the lines is by small plane, which you can take from the local aerodrome. The pilot will give you a tour and explanation of the figures, not to be missed.

Arequipa

Considered the second city of Peru, Arequipa is a lovely city with a lovely climate. Most of the buildings are made from a local white stone called Sillar. The city has a pretty plaza and many attractions. Visit the Santa Catalina Monestary. A few hours from Arequipa is the Colca Canyon, an amazing natural canyon with hikes you can do for 2 or 3 days. Visit Cruz del Condor to see the majestic Condor passing by.

Puno

On the shores of Lake Titicaca is the high Andean town of Puno. THe town has a quiant plaza with a large church, but the main attractions is the lake. Take tours out to visit the incredible Uros Islands, visit the Uros community and marvel at their way of life. The islands are built completely out of the reeds that grow in the lake. The Uros also build their houses and boat from the same reeds. Travel further out on the lake and visit the Islands of Taquille and Amatani, both rock islands have interesting history and worth a visit.

Cusco

The heart of the Inca Empire, Cusco is an interesting mix of Inca and Spanish culture. The main plaza has 2 churches which is very rare in the colonial era. Cobblestone streets lead from the plaza with many beautiful houses to visit. Cusco is known as a tourist hub and has many restaurants and an abundance of nightlife. Spend a few days and nights exploring this wonderful highland city in the Peruvian Andes. Cusco is generally the starting point for most tours to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Sacred Valley

Not far from Cusco is the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas. Featuring many Inca ruins that are a must to visit. The valley has many interesting towns in Pisac with its local art market, Urubamba which is the main town of the Sacred Valley and where you will have lunch. Further down the road is the Inca town of Ollantaytambo which hasnt changed much since Inca times. Ollantaytambo also is where you will catch the train to Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu

The famous Inca site is located on the side of a mountain high in the Andes Mountain range. This spectacular site is the reason many visit Peru and when you visit you will see why. The views alone are worthwhile. Shrouded in mystery to this day Archeologists are still debating the reason why the Inca built Machu Picchu and also as to why they left. The guide will give you the history of the different parts of the site. Feel the spirituality of Machu Picchu on either a day tour or a trek to the wonderful Inca site.

Amazon Jungle

A short flight from Cusco is the Amazon Jungle. For the nature lovers among you the jungle is a must see. You can visit the jungle all year round but there are 2 seasons, the wet and the dry. The wet season is wetter and the dry season hotter. Visit one of the many lodges located along the rivers and experience one of the many jungle walks with experienced guides. Travel down the rivers and see many different varieties of animals lounging on the waterfronts. Enjoy the peace and quiet of the Amazon Jungle in Peru.