What are the best things to see in Peru? That is a great question as there
many exciting things to do and see. Where to start? Peru has three regions that make up this great Andean country, the Coast, the Highlands and the Jungle, each offering a unique experience to the traveller. Where to start your journey should be the first question on your mind, and the answer is in the Capital of Peru; where all international flights arrive.
Lima; the capital of Peru is your starting point for any Peruvian adventure. Lima is a big city
like many others, and is one that you should take the time to explore, the city has a great mix of old and new, both of which are wonderful to see. Lima is known worldwide for its food and let me tell you, will not be disappointed with the flavours and the variety that this great city has to offer.
2. Not far from Lima is the quiet little town of Nazca; the area enjoys year-round sunshine but
what this little town is most famous for is the mysterious Nazca Lines that are etched into the desert floor. Nazca Lines are a series of drawing and lines that can only be seen from the air. Around the town of Nazca, you can see the Cemetery of Chauchilla and many other interesting
Sites.
A city that should be on your must-see list is Arequipa. Arequipa is considered to be Peru’s
second city and this city has a lovely atmosphere. The main square has a marvellous Cathedral
and many restaurants in the surrounding areas. Take a city tour or go to the Santa Catalina
Monastery and experience the history of Arequipa.
From Arequipa travel around five hours to the Colca Valley. Here you will find one of the
deepest Canyons in the world. View the Canyon from the Cruz del Condor and see the
majestic Condors circling above.
Travel to the south of Peru and you will find the fascinating Lake Titicaca. Considered to be one of the highest lakes in the world, the lake has a crystal-like appearance and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Situated on the lake, are the man-made Uros Islands and the wonderful Uros people. Despite the many tourists that visit the islands every year, luckily the islands have been able to maintain a peaceful life fishing and cultivating food. The islands
are made out of reeds that grow in the lake and are like nothing you’ve seen before.
6. Travel north of Puno and you will arrive in Cusco. Cusco was the heart of the Inca Empire
and today, you can still see some of the remains of their empire. Cusco is a great place to
spend a few days and if you love the nightlife, you will not be disappointed. Spend your
days exploring the city streets filled with museums, markets and great restaurants to
Enjoy; Cusco is filled with lovely Spanish colonial churches and houses, some of which have
been transformed into Hotels. At night, revel in the LED lit fountain displays or one of the many bars or clubs. There is much to see and do in Cusco, so make sure to book a tour in advance; just outside the city are four Inca ruins that are included on most City tours.
While in the Cusco area, you must experience the Sacred Valley of the Incas; one of the
most naturally beautiful places on the planet. The spectacular countryside is breathtaking
and the climate is mild compared to Cusco. In most people’s opinion, the Sacred Valley is
one of the best things to see in Peru and this is reflected in how many travellers have
Chosen to leave their home countries, making the Valley their new home.
A short flight from Cusco, and you’ll find yourself in the Amazon Jungle town of Puerto Maldonado. In the past, this town was the major port of the Jungle in Peru. Today, the port is mainly used for tourist travel to the Amazon Jungle lodges that are situated on the rivers around Puerto Maldonado. If you are a lover of nature, then you will enjoy this jungle experience. There
are lodges catering for all budgets, from backpacker inns to the luxurious resort lodges, all with many activities to participate in.
In northern Amazon is the town of Iquitos, where you can take a luxury cruise. There
are many different companies to choose from and the standard of luxury depends on the price
you are willing to pay. Cruise down the Amazon, pass the local villages and see the way of life of the local people. If you are lucky, you might be able to see the Pink Dolphins swimming next to the Boat, or experience the plant and fish based diet of the Native peoples.
Last but certainly not least is Machu Picchu. Travellers from all over the globe come to Peru
to see the Inca city and it is by far one of the best things to see in Peru. The ancient Inca citadel was never discovered by the Spanish and sat covered in vegetation for centuries. Mystery still
surrounds the purpose of the site and why it was so quickly abandoned. Today, hundreds
visit the site every day, to learn and experience the history of Machu Picchu.
To explore Peru will be one of the best travel experiences you could ever hope to enjoy. So be sure to find a Peru travel guide and research all of your options to ensure you have the best travel experience in Peru.