Peru
What we consider to be the most complete destination in all of Latin America has a lot more authenticity than people would think. There is so much beyond Machu Picchu and a sophistication that is sure to surprise.
We like to say that you can easily 'immerse yourself in the postcard' you've admired for years in Peru because it still exists today. Indigenous life continues to thrive, there are hundreds of archaeological ruins waiting to be explored and a vibrant culinary world that gives a fresh take on your journey to Peru.
The Northern Desert
Stretching as far as you can see the Northern Desert of Peru is rich in history and pre-Inca archaeology. Home to ancient civilizations long before the Incas, the region has many fascinating ruins and artefacts to visit. Many of the most fruitful archaeological projects have focused on the ancient Moche culture, particularly the gold-filled tomb of the Lord of Sipan. In this region archaeology is alive with discoveries still being found by teams on the ground.
It's not all digging and discovery, Northern Peru has many small towns and villages that are worth a visit. Choose from the elegant coastal town of Trujillo, the relaxing beach front of Huanchaco and the bustling, modern town of Chiclayo – each has a different appeal for visitors to this part of Peru.
The Southern Desert
By far the main draw for visitors coming to the Southern Desert of Peru are the world-famous Nasca lines. Even today experts still don't know how these lines etched into the dry earth of the Nasca and Palpa deserts were created, forming as they do giant geometric animal shapes visible only from the air. Covering some 220km, you fly over the desert to understand the sheer scale of the imagery created.
But the Southern Desert has other attractions for the visitor. Peru's only marine protected area, the Paracas National Reserve lies north of Nasca. Covering an immense 335,000 hectares it was created to protect large breeding populations of the Humboldt penguin, South American fur seal and sea lion, as well as the 63 migrant bird species who treat this area is a vital stopover.
The Rainforest
The Peruvian share of the Amazon basin includes some beautifully pristine rainforest protected in reserves. We recommend two different areas of rainforest in Southeast Peru to visit – Manu and Tambopata. Less accessible and popular than Tambopata, Manu is thought to be at the centre of the most dense and diversely populated section of the Amazon. Here you stand the best chance of observing the thousands of species of animal, bird, insect and fish that live here. Manu never disappoints and is a haven for naturalists and film makers from all over the world.
Easier to tie into a broader visit to Peru, Tambopata nevertheless offers ample chances to view wildlife, including the largest macaw clay lick where you can view many brightly colored macaws ingesting the vital minerals they need from this spot.
Cuzco and Machu Picchu
Cuzco and Machu Picchu constitute Peru's main tourist destinations for a reason. They are the highlight of any visit to Peru.
At 3,400m, Cuzco is without a doubt the most beautiful town in Peru and possibly Latin America. It was considered the navel of the earth, the capital of Tahuantinsuyo or the Inca Empire. The gateway to the Machu Picchu citadel, Cuzco benefited from talents of the Inca stonemasons whose creations in turn formed the foundations of the most beautiful Baroque architecture during Spanish rule in the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, the level of accommodation and cuisine has been enhanced to rival that of any World Heritage city.
Despite its infamy, Machu Picchu never disappoints. With its draw-dropping location this most popular of Inca ruins is voted for again and again as one of the best sights in the world.
Lake Titicaca and the Highlands
It is still possible to avoid the crowds on a visit to the highest navigable lake in the world. Set halfway between the Peruvian and Bolivian highlands, Lake Titicaca was the birthplace of the Inca civilization and its history is steeped in the richest folklore in Peru.
It is a beautiful and extensive place – covering some 8,300sq km. Most visiting the Peruvian side of the lake scratch the service. We prefer to immerse you in the beauty of the area, by staying for a night or two at Suasi Island, visiting the community at Llachon or maybe over-nighting at Anapia Island.
The Andes
The Andes mountain range runs the entire length of South America, and it has dominated much of Peruvian life and history. High, volcanic in places and varied – the Andes supports many different ecosystems and ways of life. The Incas built a road across part of it, and settlements such as Machu Picchu within it – while the Spanish colonized the best part of it, like Cuzco said to be the most beautiful town in Latin America.
You can enjoy the architecture, wildlife or scenery of the Andes in many ways, but the most popular is the trek. We offer many different treks for all abilities and across all areas of the Andean landscape.
Colonial Cities
Stretching across two centuries, the Spanish colonial rule in Peru fundamentally changed the culture, society and architecture of the country. The proliferation of the Baroque style of ornate building and craftsmanship created lasting beautiful monuments that we still cherish today.
From what has been called the most beautiful city in the Americas, Cuzco, was the jewel in successive empires – the centre of the Inca empire and Spanish Latin America. You cannot cease to marvel at the Baroque architecture which has been built upon the still solid foundations constructed by the highly-skilled Inca stonemasons.
A second colonial city set in the Andes in Southern Peru, Arequipa is famous for the type of white volcanic stone used to create the buildings. Sillar stone gave rise to the city's nickname, 'La Ciudad Bianca' or the white city. Set at the base of La Misti volcano, Arequipa is the second most populous city in Peru and is a World Heritage Site.
The celebration of Catholicism produced the 33 churches of Ayacucho – one for every year of Jesus's life. Even today, these celebrations continue with many festivals including horse races and the running of the bulls. The celebrations were certainly felt in Spain when the Inca empire finally came to an end near the colonial city of Cajamarca in the Northern Highlands. Today, this city is famous for its cheeses and dairy products, but for the Spanish it began a period of rule that lasted for over 100 years.
Destinations
