11 good reasons to make a tailor-made trip to Peru

21/11/2023 12:00

Welcome to Peru, land of mysteries and discoveries. In this South American nation steeped in legend and mysticism, exceptional archaeological sites defy the passage of time, capturing the imagination of modern explorers. Among these hidden gems, Kuélap and Waqra Pukara emerge as complex enigmas, silent witnesses to ancient civilizations and lost cultures. 

As the Peruvian Andes unfold, these enigmatic remains reveal fascinating stories and secrets kept from the past. Embark with us on a journey to the heart of Peruvian mystery, where each stone tells a story that awakens our thirst for curiosity. In this article, find 11 good reasons to discover Peru.

1. Inca history

Although the Inca Empire was gone for centuries, many Inca traditions and aspects of daily life continue among Peru's indigenous communities. The country is home to museums rich in artifacts and information about the Inca civilization. THE Museum of Archeology and Anthropology of Lima, for example, offers an impressive collection of Inca objects that provide a better understanding of their history and art.

If you want to immerse yourself in Inca culture, you can go to the revelry which are as numerous as they are colorful to salute this majestic past. In the region of Cusco for example, the former capital of the Inca Empire, festive and popular ceremonies take place throughout almost the entire month of June!

Exploring Peru will allow you to delve into the rich and complex history of the Inca Empire, from its humble beginnings to its expansion and regional domination. Understanding the challenges the Incas faced and the reasons for their decline contributes to a deeper understanding of this fascinating civilization.

2. Machu Picchu

By itself, the Machu Picchu citadel would be worth a trip to the country, just to see it and contemplate it for hours. The advanced construction techniques and strategic layout of the site demonstrate the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. The ancient city dates from Xth century and was discovered at the beginning of the 20th century. Some say it was a religious sanctuary, others the residence of an emperor, but the certainty is that it is one of the 7 new wonders of the world.

Situated atop a mountain in the Andes, Machu Picchu offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. The experience of standing atop this ancient city while admiring the surrounding landscapes is unforgettable.

Although archaeologists have made significant progress in understanding the history of Machu Picchu, many aspects of its origin and function remain mysterious. Visiting the site allows you to immerse yourself in these mysteries and appreciate its historical significance.

Many visitors describe a special atmosphere at Machu Picchu, a feeling of connection with the past and spiritual energy. The Incas built the site in harmony with nature, and this earth connection is palpable during the visit.

Reaching Machu Picchu may involve a hike, such as the famous Inca Trail. This adventure adds a physical dimension to the experience, allowing you to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas and enjoy the surrounding landscape.

In addition, visiting Machu Picchu directly contributes to its conservation. Revenues from tourism are used to preserve this site from cultural heritage. UNESCO world and ensure its sustainability for future generations.

3. Adventure

• Trekking on the Inca Trail: The Inca Trail is one of the most famous treks in the world, leading hikers through stunning landscapes to ultimately arrive at the summit of Machu Picchu. It is an unforgettable experience for trekking lovers.

• Andes Mountains: The Andes Mountains offer a wide range of activities. From climbing majestic peaks to mountain biking down steep trails, the diversity of mountain terrain ensures varied experiences for all skill levels.

• Amazon: Exploring the Peruvian Amazon rainforest offers an immersive adventure at the heart of biodiversity. Boat trips and jungle treks are possible in this area.

• Nautical sports : The Peruvian coast along the Pacific Ocean offers excellent opportunities for water sports such as surfing, windsurfing and kayaking. The powerful waves attract surfers from all over the world.

• Sandboarding in Huacachina: The vast sand dunes near Huacachina provide a perfect canvas for sandboarding enthusiasts. Sliding down the sand dunes at high speed is a unique experience.

• Climbing in Huaraz: Its impressive rock faces, offering climbing opportunities for climbers of all levels, are what make the Huaraz region in the Peruvian Andes famous.

4. Cities steeped in history

Peru is full of cities steeped in history, each offering a glimpse into the country's complex past. Here are some of the most iconic Peruvian cities:

• Cuzco

Former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a must-see city. The cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial buildings create a unique atmosphere. There Plaza de Armas is surrounded by magnificent churches and historic buildings.

• Lima

As the capital of Peru, Lima has a rich history dating back to pre-Columbian times. The historic center of Lima is classified as Unesco World Heritage thanks to its Spanish colonial buildings, cathedrals and palaces.

• Arequipa

Nicknamed the “White City” because of its many buildings built in sillar, a white volcanic stone, Arequipa has a magnificent historic center. The cathedral and the Convent of Santa Catalina bear witness to colonial architecture.

• Trujillo

This northern Peruvian city is renowned for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. The large residences, the old churches and the Plaza de Armas make it an ideal destination for history lovers.

• Ayacucho

Known for its beautifully preserved Baroque churches, Ayacucho was an important cultural and religious center during the colonial period. The city played a crucial role in the history of independent Peru.

• Puno

Located on the banks of the Titicaca Lake, Puno offers a unique blend of history and culture. The city center is home to colonial churches and historic squares, while the lake's islands offer a glimpse into the lives of local communities.

• Huancayo

This Andean city features Spanish colonial architecture, ancient churches, and deep-rooted cultural traditions. There Plaza constitution is at the heart of the city's activity.

5. Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is located on the border between Peru and Bolivia. It is the highest navigable lake in the world, being perched at 3812m altitude. It’s a must-see place.

The Uros are an indigenous community who live on artificial floating islands on the lake made of totora, an aquatic plant. Visiting these islands offers an insight into the traditional life and crafts of this community. The island of taquile is famous for its people who preserve their ancestral traditions, including their textile crafts. The people of this island are known for their beautiful knitting and weaving.

Another island in Lake Titicaca, amantani, offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily life of local residents. Visitors often have the opportunity to stay in family homes and participate in traditional ceremonies.

Slocated on the Peruvian side of the lake, Suasi Island is the only private island in Lake Titicaca. It offers a peaceful atmosphere, hiking trails and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility.

Lake Titicaca is impregnated with ritual as well as traditions which date back to the time of pre-Incan civilizations. Exploring its islands, meeting its inhabitants and discovering its archaeological sites allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history of this extraordinary region.

6. Colca Canyon

The Colca Canyon, located in the Andes of Peru, is one of the deepest canyons in the world. In fact, it is more than twice deeper than the Grand Canyon in the USA. The soaring cliffs and impressive views create a spectacular landscape, offering visitors a unique experience.

Colca Canyon is renowned for being one of the best places in the world to observe the majestic flight of Andean condors. Visitors can admire these impressive birds soaring above the canyon early in the morning.

The picturesque villages along the Colca Canyon offer a glimpse of rural Peruvian life. Locals continue centuries-old traditions, and local markets allow visitors to discover local crafts and regional products. Colca Canyon is home to agricultural terraces dating back to pre-Inca times. These structures demonstrate the ingenious ability of ancient civilizations to exploit the landscape for agriculture.

If you want to relax, the Calera thermal baths, in Chivay, are an ideal place. The natural thermal waters offer a relaxing experience with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Although Colca Canyon is not directly on Lake Titicaca, many excursions combine these two destinations. This offers visitors the opportunity to experience a complete adventure.

7. Gastronomy

Although we have the unfortunate tendency to think otherwise, Peru offers traditional cuisine that is simply delicious.

So it's true, in Peru it's easy to turn to meals between chicken and potatoes but beyond that, you have other dishes which are the country's specialties.

• Ceviche : Peruvian ceviche is world famous. Prepared with fresh seafood marinated in lime juice, red onion, chili pepper and coriander, it's a refreshing dish reminiscent of Peru's proximity to the ocean.

• Anticuchos: These grilled meat skewers, often made with beef heart, are marinated in special spices and served with potatoes and spicy sauces. 

• Lomo Saltado: A Peruvian-Chinese fusion dish that combines sautéed beef chunks with vegetables, spices and fries, creating a flavor combination.

• Quinoa and corn: Peru is a major producer of quinoa, and this food is often present in dishes. Additionally, corn is also an essential ingredient in Peruvian cuisine.

• Pisco Sours: This is an emblematic drink from Peru. Made with Pisco, a local brandy, lime juice, egg white and sugar syrup, it is a refreshing and delicious cocktail.

Another Peruvian specialty, a bit special for us Europeans, is the Guinea Pig, in other words guinea pig... It's up to you to choose!

8. Unusual places

Vinicunca Mountain (Mountain of Seven Colors) 

Also known as Seven Colored Mountain or Rainbow mountain, this place is located in the region ofexit gate, in the Andes of Peru. This spectacular natural site attracts visitors from all over the world due to its unique geological formations. These create color bands vibrant red, green, yellow and purple. The high altitude and the walk to the summit require some physical preparation, but the effort is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. There Mountain of Seven Colors offers an unforgettable visual experience and allows visitors to admire the splendor of the Peruvian Andes.

Nazca Lines 

It is a set of giant geoglyphs traced in the Nazca Desert in southern Peru. These lines, which include geometric figures, stylized animals and abstract patterns, can only be fully appreciated by flying over the area. Created by the Nazca culture between 500 BC. BC and 500 CE, these lines remain a mystery. Indeed, their exact origin and meaning are not completely clear. However, their size and precision testify to the ingenuity of the Nazca civilization.

Maras salt pans 

The Maras Salt Flats are salt terraces in operation since pre-Inca times. Located in the sacred valley of the Incas, these salt pans form a network of thousands of terraced basins, each of which is exploited artisanal way by local residents. Salt water springs naturally from an underground spring and is channeled to these pools, where it gradually evaporates, leaving salt crystals. The view of the Maras Salt Flats offers a contrast between the white of the salt, the blue sky and the surrounding mountains. Visiting this place not only allows you to appreciate the natural beauty of the salt flats, but also to understand the thousand-year-old tradition of salt production in this region. 

9. The Amazon rainforest

Exploring the Amazon rainforest in Peru offers a unique and unforgettable experience. The Peruvian Amazon rainforest is home to one of the richest biodiversity in the world. There you will find an extraordinary variety of plants, animals, insects and birds. It is the ideal place for nature lovers.

Many indigenous communities live in the Amazon rainforest of Peru, preserving age-old traditions. Visiting these communities offers a unique opportunity to discover their way of life and customs.

La Amazon River is one of the longest in the world. Sailing on its waters gives you an exceptional perspective of the surrounding forest. Boat trips allow you to explore the tributaries, spot wildlife and experience spectacular scenery.

If you want to venture there, it's possible! The trails through the Amazon rainforest offer a unique opportunity to walk through the jungle. Local guides share their knowledge of the fauna, flora and traditional uses of medicinal plants.

Many ecotourism initiatives in Peru emphasize sustainability and preservation of the Amazon ecosystem. By choosing optionsresponsible ecotourism, visitors also contribute to the conservation of the forest.

In summary, the Amazon rainforest is a destination for those seeking adventure and connection with the wildest nature.

10. Varied landscapes

Peru benefits from an incredible variety of landscapes. Thanks to its positioning, it offers panoramas ranging from the lake Titicaca to the snow-capped mountains with the Cordilleras of the Andes up to the Amazon forest. 

• The Andes 

The Andes Mountains cross Peru from north to south, offering mountainous landscapes and majestic views. These towering peaks not only played a key role in the physical geography of the country, but they also influenced the culture and history of the civilizations that thrived in this region.

• Machu Picchu and surrounding mountains

The famous Inca city of Machu Picchu sits atop the Andes mountains, offering exceptional panoramic views of the valleys below. The experience of standing at the top of this ancient city while enjoying the surrounding mountains is truly unique.

• Amazon forest

In the east of Peru, the Amazon rainforest extends over a vast area. This region is home to incredible biodiversity with a variety of unique species. Exploring the Amazon jungle offers an immersion in a fascinating ecosystem that contrasts with the mountainous regions.

• Desert coast

To the west, Peru has a desert coastline along the Pacific Ocean. Landscapes, like those of the Paracas National Reserve, are marked by impressive rock formations and secluded beaches.

• Canyons and valleys

Peru is home to canyons such as the colca canyon. These landscapes offer spectacular panoramas.

You will also have the opportunity to explore its landscapes by going to one of the 8 national reserves et 7 national sanctuaries. Peru has exceptional diversity and it would be a shame not to take a moment to go and admire it.

11. Mysterious places

Peru has a history as fascinating as it is mysterious... Here are the sites of Kuélap and Waqra Pukara which have not yet revealed all their secrets.

Kuelap

Kuélap is a spectacular archaeological site in the mountains of northern Peru. It is an ancient citadel built by the Chachapoya culture, also called the “Cloud People”, between the 6th and 16th centuries. Kuélap is distinguished by its imposing stone walls which surround the city. You can see some towers measuring up to 20 meters high. The unique characteristics of Kuélap are its circular structures called “roundels” and its complex architectural patterns.

Several enigmas remain. The sophistication of its architecture is mysterious as it demonstrates an advanced knowledge of building massive stone structures, long before the Incas arrived in the region. Furthermore, the origin of Chachapoyas and their disappearance remain largely mysterious. The reasons why they built such an impressive city are not entirely clear. The circular structures called rondelles inside Kuélap raise questions. Their precise use and meaning remain enigmas for archaeologists.

Finally, Kuélap is located on a mountainous plateau, offering a panoramic view of the valley below. How the Chachapoyas chose the strategic location of Kuélap for defensive or ritual reasons remains a mystery.

Waqra Pukara 

Waqra Pukara is an archaeological site located in the Cusco region. It's about a fortress pre-Inca perched on a mountain about 4 000 meters altitude. Waqra Pukara is built of stone and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The site consists of defensive structures, agricultural terraces and intriguing stone constructions.

The precise objective of Waqra Pukara remains uncertain. Some believe it was a defensive fortress, while others speculate on ritual functions ou astronomical. Also, the construction of Waqra Pukara is technically impressive, with well-fitted stone walls. How the builders transported the stones remains a mystery, given the region's steep topography. A rock formation near Waqra Pukara resembles a llama's head. Some believe it has ritual or cultural significance, but the precise nature of this rock formation remains secret.

These sites add to Peru's mysterious wealth by raising questions about the lives, beliefs and practices of the ancient civilizations that created them. 

FAQ

What is the most beautiful city in Peru?

Cusco is often considered one of the most beautiful cities in Peru. The former capital of the Inca Empire, it is full of historic sites, cobblestone alleys, colorful markets and magnificent examples of Spanish colonial architecture. In addition, Cusco is the starting point for traveling to the iconic site of Machu Picchu.

When is the best time to visit Peru?

We recommend the dry season which extends from June to October to get to Peru. Indeed, you will enjoy generally sunny days with less rain and fewer mosquitoes in the Amazon rainforest. However, it is also the busiest season. 

What is the language spoken in Peru?

The main language spoken in Peru is spanish. It is the official language of the country used by administration, education and the media. However, due to Peru's cultural diversity, there are also many indigenous languages that are spoken, although in much smaller proportions.

Do you want to discover the riches of Peru ? Do not hesitate to contact My Luxury Travel for your tailor-made stay!