If there is a country that may fairly be called a sightseer’s paradise, then that country is Peru. Of course, I think there is something fascinating in every country on earth, but Peru has something truly special to offer. The minute you arrive in this country, which is located in the north-west region of South America, you feel steeped in its amazing culture and history. Here is just a brief list of attractions that are not-to-be-missed while you are in Peru:
The Andes Mountains- The Andes make up a remarkable mountain range because they encompass seven countries and a vast array of different ecosystems as they stretch across the continent of South America. Within the mountains of Peru you can visit the world’s deepest canyons, the Cañón del Colca and Cañón del Cotahuasi, which show off Mother Nature’s natural ability as a sculptor, and offer opportunities for rock climbing and white water rafting.
Machu Picchu- Within the Andes mountains of Peru you can also walk the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the incredible lost city. Machu Picchu was recently designated as one of the world’s new seven wonders, and is one of the most visited places in all of South America.
The beaches- Some of the country’s most gorgeous beaches (of which there are many) are located south of Lima, the country’s capital. If you are a surfer, you will adore Peru’s surfing hot spots, Costa Verde, Herradura and Punta Rocas. Other popular beaches include Punta Sal, El Silencio, Punta Hermosa, Santa María and Pucusana.
Cusco- In the indigenous Quechua language, Cusco means “navel of the world.” Today in Cusco, you can visit historic churches, pubs, cafes, and centers. Some of the languages you may hear include Spanish, English, Quechua, Japanese, and Hebrew. This unique cultural crossroads was deemed an International Cultural Heritage Site by the United Nations in 1983.
Lake Titicaca- Lake Titicaca is famously known as the world’s highest navigable lake. Here you can see locals drifting on the lake’s sapphire-blue waters in boats made of reeds, much as they have for generations.
Nasca Lines- One of the world’s great mysteries, archaeologists are still debating the what, how, and why of the Nasca Lines. These carvings extend over a range of about 40 miles, in forms such as a monkey, a hummingbird, a pelican, a whale, and a dog.
Iquitos- As the largest city within the Peruvian rainforest, Iquitos offers visitors a glimpse at all of the amazing life that dwells within this rare habitat. It is located on the Amazon River, and has long been a major port in the Amazon basin. Chartered boat tours offer the opportunity to see monkeys, herons, hawks, macaws, turtles and toucans. Iquitos is also the location of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, which is the home to over 100 species of mammals, 500 species of birds, and 250 species of fish.
