Peru
Peru is a country of great contrasts; from Lima on the Pacific Ocean coastline with its fascinating Spanish influenced architecture to the Colca Canyon – the deepest in the world. It is home to Machu Picchu, one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world where to this day there are more questions than answers. From Spanish inspired Cusco take a spectacular train journey to these lofty antiquities. Equally amazing are the Nazca lines which are so large they can only be viewed from a light aircraft. Yet another unusual sight is Lake Titicaca with its floating villages. View the Spanish inspired architecture of the capital Lima, host too many important museums.
GENERAL INFO:
Time zone: -5 (7 hours behind South Africa)
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TOP DESTINATIONS/ ATTRACTIONS
Machu Picchu
Imbued with a magical silence, 120km from Cusco on the slopes above the Urubabamba River, lies one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites, Machu Picchu. Built entirely of stone, some consider it to be a mystical place that exudes vital energy. Machu Picchu is remarkable for its solid construction, the well-balanced use of space and the harmony of the design with its natural surroundings. Today, travelling the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu allows the visitor to step back in time and walk through a variety of eco-systems and dazzling scenery.
Lima
Lima, the capital of Peru, is located on the Pacific Coast and offers fascinating Spanish colonial architecture and many of the country’s best museums.
Cusco and the Sacred Valley
Located at an altitude of over 11,000 feet in the heart of the Andes Mountains, lies the historic city of Cusco, famed capital of the ancient Inca Empire. Relics and imprints from the great civilization remain to this day and Cusco’s unique atmosphere and architecture transport the visitor to a forgotten time. The fertile soil of the Sacred Valley is still farmed today using centuries old aquaducts.
Lake Titicaca
Located at over 3,900 m the amazingly beautiful Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world and at over 8,000 km2s, it is larger than Switzerland. The lake is on the border of Bolivia and Peru and is held sacred by the locals. Here the way of life has not changed for centuries and families support themselves with farming, fishing and craftwork. Visit the “Water Tribe” who build their homes on unique floating reed islands.
Arequipa and Colca Canyon
Known as the ‘White City’, Arequipa boasts magnificent views of some of Peru’s most notable volcanoes which surround the city. Arequipa acts as a gateway to the impressive Colca Canyon, the deepest canyon in the world. The Canyon was created by a seismic fault between two volcanoes. The towering mountains and volcanoes look down on this beautiful valley dotted with ancient villages. Visit the hot springs and look out for impressive condors soaring overhead.
Amazon
Cruise the upper reaches of the Amazon for 3 nights in old world style on this restored wooden cruiser. The elegant yet simply decorated en suite cabins lead to the gracious observation deck with bar and dining area. Modern Creole style cuisine is served by the attentive crew.
View this amazing rain forest as you slowly meander down the mighty Amazon River. The cruise includes a walk in the jungle, dolphin sightings, bird watching, monkey spotting, a visit to a local village and fishing