Where To Go On Holiday In Peru
Think of Peru and the first thing that probably comes to mind is the magnificent Machu Picchu; nestled away in tropical forest amongst the Peruvian Andes, this UNESCO site should definitely be on the itinerary when visiting the country. Machu Picchu provides a fascinating insight into the lives of the Inca and is widely regarded as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. For the more energetic, a hike up to the citadel can be arranged through one of the many companies offering tours of the areas. Nearby the city of Cusco provides a perfect base and displays a heady mix of all things Incan and baroque.
The capital city of Lima throws up plentiful opportunity to scratch the surface of this country’s rich past with its many museums and archaeological sites. After a cultural day in the city, take time to relax on one of the many beaches, enjoy some traditional Peruvian cuisine or dance the night away in one of the capitals lively clubs.
If cities are your thing, then why not head to the South of the country and explore Peru’s second city, Arequipa. Home to the resplendent Santa Catalina Monastery, it also has a thriving urban scene of a weekend and provides a culinary assault on the senses with its celebrated local cuisine. Added to this Arequipa provides a great base for visiting the Colca Canyon where if you’re lucky you’ll catch a sighting of the rare Andean Condor whilst exploring the vast wilderness.
In the North of the country you’ll discover coastal desert and fantastic surf. One such gem is Mancora tucked away close to the border with Ecuador where swathes of golden beaches line the shores and seafood straight from the boat supply the plentiful restaurants all vying for custom.
Set inland Iquitos is the world’s largest city inaccessible by road. Getting here can be a battle, but one that’s definitely worth fighting. Set amongst Peruvian jungle, Iquitos is an alluring mix of metropolis and tranquillity, where traditional canoes journey side by side with large ships, and restaurants and bars straddle simplistic mud hut housing.
Peru has built a reputation as one of the world’s best adventure playgrounds too, with zip lines, extreme cycle trials, surfing, paragliding and kayaking all readily available for you to test your nerves and your spirit of adventure.
So whether you’re after an education of the Inca Empire, a journey into wilderness, a relaxing break on pristine beaches or an adrenaline fuelled escape, Peru will blow your mind without breaking your bank account.