Peru offers the curious adventurer a wealth of possibilities, and it is considered one of South America most exciting and varied nations. Take a step back in time as you walk through the cobblestone streets of Cuzco or visit a community in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The remains of Peru’s past are everywhere. It is part of its people’s traditions from the Northern Kingdom of Sipan to the southern civilisation of the Inca in Lake Titicaca.
Venture to Chiclayo, Trujillo and Chachapoyas are and learn all about the Northern Kingdoms. Then travel to Paracas and fly over the mysterious Nazca lines, don’t miss the boat trip to Ballestas Islands!
Alternatively, travel to the beautiful city of Arequipa and see Andean condors soaring over the Colca Canyon. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the mesmerising sunsets of the Amazon jungle or Lake Titicaca. Regardless of where you decide to travel to Peru, we guarantee that your holiday to Peru will be unforgettable.
When to go to Peru?
– The dry season in the Peruvian Highlands where Machu Picchu is runs from April to November. As a result, shoulder season including April, May, September, and October is optimal for fair weather and fewer people.
– The summer months of December to March are warmer but wetter, with the Inca Trail closed in February.
– Every 24 June the Inti Raymi Inca festival takes place in Cuzco, and it attracts national and international crowds. It is for this reason that we recommend early bookings.
– Even though Amazon is an all year round destination, there are different seasons, check our Amazon Jungle information.
Our Expert’s Choice:
– Hike through the forest to discover one of the world’s highest single-drop waterfalls, the magnificent Gocta Falls in northern Peru
– The Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum in Chiclayo with a unique collection of Moche artifacts is a must for history buffs.
– Ride a cable car to the extraordinary ruins of Kuelap, constructed by the fierce Chachapoya civilisation.
– Choquequirao is a fantastic trekking alternative to the Inca Trail. It has stunning scenery and a fraction of the visitors that Machu Picchu receives.
– Experience the ultra-modern fusion cuisine Lima – visit a local market, try a cooking class or indulge at one of the world’s top restaurants.
HIGHLIGHTS
Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley of the Inca (2,700masl) contains some of Peru’s most beautiful mountain scenery, fascinating cultural traditions and a wealth of Inca ruins. While Machu Picchu remains Peru’s most alluring destination, a magical mountain citadel shrouded in mystery and romance.
Amazon
Exotic and accessible, the Peruvian Amazon is just a short flight from Lima. See Amazon destination for our selection of luxury cruises and rustic lodges, departing from Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado.
Lake Titicaca
Straddling the border with Bolivia, is the highest navigable lake in the world at 3,820m above sea level. Visit the famous Uros floating islands, or overnight with a homestay on Amantani or Taquile islands.
Arequipa & Colca Canyon
Rivalling Cuzco as Peru’s loveliest colonial city, Arequipa is surrounded by snow-capped volcanoes and the world’s deepest canyon (twice the depth of the Grand Canyon), home to the Andean condor.
Northern Kingdoms
Often overlooked in favour of the Inca are the vast citadels, mysterious temples and the fine craftsmanship of the Moche and Chachapoya civilisations. Peru’s northern cities of Chiclayo, Trujillo and Chachapoyas are a must for history buffs, with many ancient cities predating the Inca by hundreds of years.
Lima
Don’t miss Peru’s capital, Lima, which blends a rich colonial history with bustling modernity. Discover Peru’s justifiably famous cuisine with a visit to local produce markets, a cooking class or a night at one of the world’s top restaurants. Learn about the complex history of pre-Columbian and colonial Peru through visits to Larco Herrera Museum, the stunning Gold Museum or an exclusive private art museum. Explore the city’s diverse neighbourhoods, such as modern San Isidro, bohemian Barranco and the lively seaside district of Miraflores.
Nazca, Ica & Ballestas
Take a short trip from Lima south the coast through the remarkable desert landscape to see the mysterious Nazca Lines, visit Peru’s best pisco producers in Ica and enjoy the plentiful wildlife of the Ballestas Islands.
Cuzco
Cuzco was the capital of the Inca Empire from its beginnings in the 14th century until the Spanish conquest in 1533. It is located at 3,400masl and is known for its open markets, adobe houses, and narrow cobblestone streets