This fascinating country is especially known for its indigenous culture and history, as well as its well-preserved ruins - particularly Machu Picchu. Apart from these wonders, Peru offers jungles, wildlife, sky-high mountains, deserts and much more. It is perfect for trekking, climbing and generally just spending time outdoors. There is a touch of the adventurous "Indiana Jones" spirit in Peru. The country feels like it is a treasure chest full of hidden treasures and historical relics.
Machu Picchu
The main attraction in Peru is Machu Picchu, the greatest legacy of the famous and fascinating Incan culture. These stunning ruins will leave a lasting impression, as you will discover an ancient civilization that was so far beyond its time. After three days of hiking the famous Inca trail, the view of Machu Picchu at sunrise will overwhelm you with its divine beauty, in the lush Andean mountains, on the doorstep to heaven. Apart from Machu Picchu, you should visit the ancient Inca capital of Cuzco, a city that represents the indigenous culture that existed before the Spanish arrived to colonise South America.
Titicaca and the Amazon
From the Inca capital, you can easily travel to Lake Titicaca, the world's highest lake and a very picturesque place. Out on the lake, locals live on floating "islands" made of reeds. You can also visit or stay with Indian families on the lake's 'real' islands.
Another option from Cuzco is to book a flight to Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the Peruvian part of the Amazon Rainforest. With a bit of luck, you will see colourful parrots and exotic animals, such as monkeys, wild boars, river dolphins, birds, spiders and snakes – make sure to leave your phobias at home! We highly recommended that you hop on a riverboat and sail down the Amazon River, through the open water, surrounded by the lush, magical rainforest.
Lima and desert revelations
Lima is a fascinating, confusing, and chaotic metropolis that you will sooner or later get tired of - but you should definitely experience it! From here, there are ample opportunities with various bus operators to travel south along the coast on the Pan American Highway. Hot tip: stop at the small town of Huacachina. It is a desert oasis with beautiful palm-lined lagoons and giant sand dunes that are perfect for sand boarding.
Huaraz - Andes trekking mecca
High up in the Andes, a few hundred miles north of Lima, is Huaraz. This place is world-renowned among trekkers, climbers, and adventurers who wish to adventure through the Andes. The town lies in the Cordillera Blanca, a divinely beautiful part of the Andes.
Nazca, Arequipa and Colca Canyon
Nazca and the Nazca lines are an inevitable stop for history and mystery buffs. These lines are man-made drawings of figures including spiders and monkeys, in the sand, some several kilometres wide. It is believed that the Nazca Indians drew these characters nearly 2,000 years ago and it has long been a mystery how and why they were made.
In the desert area of Arequipa, you will find the world’s biggest canyon - Canon del Cotahuasi. We recommend you skip this one, and go to the more accessible Canon del Colca - it’s the second deepest in the world, and twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. Nearby, you will find the charming mountain town of Chivay, known for its hot springs and picturesque surroundings. There are plenty of other quaint villages in the hillsides of this area that offer interesting cultural history and stunning views.