Highlights
Nature
The Andean Condor can be found in Colca Canyon, along with many other species of bird. If you’re a bird enthusiast, the opportunity to see this incredible animal take to the sky cannot be missed. With a wing span of over three metres, it holds the title of the largest raptor in the world. There are many other animals that can be seen in Peru such as, Humboldt Penguins, jaguars and Amazon River Dolphins.
Cities
Lima and Cuzco are two of Peru’s most popular cities. Lima, the capital, boasts incredible 16th century architecture of such importance and historical value the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also home to Circuito Mágico del Agua (The Magic Water Circuit), an array of colourful fountains, catapulting into the air in time to music and leaving an everlasting impression on those who witness it. Cuzco, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also full of history and beauty, and home to iconic Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is also home to an array of museums, restaurants and markets, which only add to the city’s appeal. Both cities, in fact, offer incredible dining, with Peruvian cuisine easy to find and delicious to sample.
Cuisine
Peruvian cuisine is a melting pot of influences, including from the indigenous people, such as the Inca, along with immigrants from Europe, West Africa and Asia, with many dishes that are full of flavour and colour, such as Ceviche, Chupe de Camarones (Shrimp Cioppino) and Papas a la Huanciana (huancayo-style potatoes). Dining varies from gourmet-style to street food, each style underscored by authentic Peruvian flavours. In addition, there are various city markets, such as Mercado de Artesania in Plaza de Armas, selling fresh ingredients and dishes. The national drink of Peru is Pisco, and you’re sure to find the refreshing brandy at most restaurants.
Machu Picchu
Well-known as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu (‘Old Mountain’ in Quechua) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that sits high above the Urubamba River and offers extraordinary views of the valley below. Said to have been created by the Inca as a secret ceremonial city, it leaves you in awe of the detail in the handcrafted stone that comes together to create the incredible structures. The site was rediscovered in 1911 by an American historian by the name of Hiram Bingham, who came across it by chance while looking for Vilcabamba.
Lakes and Mountains
Peru is full of landmarks and lakes waiting to be explored. Colca Canyon is one of the world’s deepest and is home to over one-hundred species of birds, including the world’s largest flying bird, the Andean Condor. Capturing the sight of these amazing creatures in flight is an unforgettable experience. Lake Titikaka is South America’s largest freshwater lake and a sacred place for the Inca. It is reputedly where the first Inca king Manco Capac was born, as well as where the god Viracocha created the stars, sun and the first people. The mighty Amazon runs through the north east of Peru from Brazil, while the Sacred Valley is home to a collection of incredible Inca and Ollantaytambo ruins, which can be discovered on various excursions.
Culture
To the Inca, death was an important aspect of life and the bodies and spirits of their ancestors were worshipped. Human sacrifices were common after or during important events and many mummified remains have been found on high mountain peaks. One of the most famous mummies is Juanita, and the 500-year-old ‘Inca Ice Maiden’ can be seen at the Andean Sanctuaries Museum, which is a fascinating experience. Convento de San Francisco (Saint Francis Monastery) is home to catacombs, where thousands of skulls and bones have been laid to rest, and is a must-see experience if you’re in Lima. Elsewhere, it is believed that Peru’s famous Nazca Lines were created to bring water to the surface to help with irrigation. The etched lines feature animals such as a whale, lizard, hummingbird, spider, monkey and a pelican. To get a true feel for the scale, see them from above on a helicopter or plane tour.