Lying on South Americas west coast, Peru – often referred to as the ancient capital of the world - is one of the most diverse countries in the world; playing home to a rumbling terrain ranging from mountains and rain forests to plains, lakes and deserts.

A vacation to this exotic nation is truly an unforgettable experience that feeds visitors with an exciting mix of age-old history; of diverse cultures and people; and of nature and adventure at their finest.

One of the most enchanting historic sites is ‘Machu Picchu,’ which is known as the “Lost City of the Inca,” Said to be built in the 15th century by the Inca Ruler, Pachacuti it was rediscovered in 1911 and now pays homage to the ancient people with its magnificent architectural structures and breath-taking beauty.

Walking the “Inca Trail” on your way to Machu Picchu, is often considered the highlight of the Peruvian experience. With its amazing wildlife and flora and fauna, the winding trails take visitors under age-old tunnels, over a mountain and through the Cusco Forest, transporting visitors to times unknown when the area was alive and in use.

Another mysterious feature of Peru are the Nazca lines which are strange shapes engraved into the land by unknown persons, and are so large that they can only be truly appreciated through a helicopter tour.

For those wanting to experience the beauty of nature, the famed Amazon Rain forest is definitely a treat above all other destinations. The ‘Manu Biosphere Reserve’ allows a venture into the forest; an ecological hot-spot with the highest rate of biodiversity, and alive with the scents, sounds and sights of the glory of nature and wild-life.

Visitors may also meet the Amazonians who live in the forest; seemingly untouched by the pace and happenings of today’s world. Another great area is the ‘Allpahuayo-Mishana Reserve’ which is one of the best spots for bird-watchers, with over 1800 different bird species.

The Peruvian Andes, in their astonishing yet simplistic opulence are perhaps the most beautiful in South America, and are a world-class destination for mountaineers and trekkers. The range is also home to the native highlanders who live according to past traditions and speak the ancient Quechua language.

Another feature of the Andes, lying 12,500 feet above sea level, is Lake Titicaca. Aside from its eerie beauty, the lake is surrounded by historic sites, including the ‘Floating Islands of Uros’ and other Inca and pre-Inca ruins.

The Colca Canyon is yet another breath-taking site to visit, and is twice greater than USA’s Grand Canyon in its depth. Aside from the intrinsic marvel of the canyons spectacular beauty, visitors are also able to observe the rare condors (vulture like birds) in action and ride the bike trail which allows them to soak in the sheer size and splendor of the area.

Giving tourists a break from the historic and age-old experience that most of Peru provides, is the capital city of Lima. Even though it’s an urban metropolis lying in the heart of the deserts coastline, the city has skillfully succeeded in preserving the elegance of its vibrant past.

Named the “Cultural Patrimony of Humanity” by the UNESCO, Lima is enchanting in the way it blends the big-city modern lifestyle with incomparable charm and romanticism. A number of places to visit in the city are the “The Park of Love,” the Presidential Palace, the Gold Museum and the historic Plaza Mayor Square, amongst the more contemporary dining and clubbing destinations.

Peru, because of its varied topography is a haven for adventure-seekers. Whether it’s taking a Hot-Air Balloon ride and bungee jumping; going trekking in the mountains, or indulging in your favorite water-sports at the beach – Peru is sure to get your blood pumping.

All in all, Peru is one of the most enchanting, enticing and unforgettable vacation spots in the world.

• Visit Bath & Britain’s only natural thermal spa
• Torino Winter Olympic Games 2006
• Travelling off the Beaten Track
• Travel Blog Carnival Posts: Week 5

Newsletter signup

Subscribe to our RSS

Stumble this page

Save this page