Peru Essentials: Journey Through Time and Living Traditions

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Peru Essentials: Journey Through Time and Living Traditions

The most important thing is to bring your adventurous spirit, an open mind, and a desire to experience some very unique cultures. Cusco, considered by the Incas to be the "Navel of the World", has become a South American gringo hangout thanks to easy access to close Machu Picchu and buzzing nightlife. Not far away is the magical Lake Titicaca, the birthplace of Inca myths.

The Peruvian coastline invites for a visit of the giant figures etched on the desert by the Nazca civilization while north Peru can pride in the ancient adobe city of Chan Chan or the mysterious "Cloud People" of the northern highlands to name just a few.

You can trek forever amid high peaks and blue lagoons, cycle down remote mountainsides, or surf the Pacific waves. East of the Andes, the jungle stretches towards the heart of the continent with some of the richest biodiversity on Earth. And, should you get tired of nature, there is always Lima, loud and brash, but with some of the best museums, renowned restaurants offering the best of the delicious Peruvian cuisine, and liveliest nightlife in the country.

Planning Your Trip to Peru

Lima

Lima the sprawling capital of Peru, is daunting at first sight, but it's worth exploring its museums, colonial architecture, restaurants, and nightlife. Routes radiate in every direction and great steps have been taken to improve major roads linking the Pacific with the highlands.

North of Peru

The city of Huaraz is only 7 hours north of Lima. Here is the starting point for hikes to the Cordillera Blanca, the country's climbing and trekking centre. Mountaineering and hiking can be easily combined with the archaeological site of Chavin east of Huaraz or with the pre-Inca towns of Sechin and Chan Chan, located near the colonial city of Trujillo. As for the coast, there is a lot of evidence of pre-Columbian cultures, especially around Chiclayo. If you are sports-minded, go surfing on beaches like Chicama. You can also set out to observe traditional fishing techniques and wildlife parks in the far north near the town of Tumbes. Tumbes and the nearby cities of Piura and Sullana are the gateways to Ecuador.

In the northern highlands is the city of Cajamarca, which is a pleasant base for exploring other archaeological sites, thermal baths and beautiful nature. From here or along the route from Chiclayo, there is access to the remote Chachapoyas region, where a staggering number of pre-Spanish towns and cultures begin to open up to visitors. The most important of them is undoubtedly the overwhelming fortress Kuelap of the Chachapoyas Civilisation! Continuing east, you reach one of the less-travelled roads into the lowland jungle.

Central Highlands

The central highlands can be reached by road from Lima, Pisco and Nazca, with the Huancayo, Huancavelica and Ayacucho towns as the main centers. There are many historical attractions and the Mantaro Valley, near Huancayo and Ayacucho, are good areas for buying buses. Roads in this part of the Andes are improving considerably, but if you go far from the beaten path, check the conditions. Another route to the Peruvian jungle leads from the central highlands to the town of Pucallpa.

South of Peru

South of Lima is home to the most famous Peruvian tourist destinations. The main destinations are Cusco, which combines Spanish colonial and Inca architectures, the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the top mountain citadel Machu Picchu, which is a masterpiece of historical and cultural value. Here also lead the Classic Inca Trails, the principal route to arrive to the "Lost City of the Incas".

Inca Trail

Regular trips from Cusco extend to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca (on the land road to Bolivia), where the islands are often visited to see the unique lifestyle of its inhabitants. Arequipa, a wonderful colonial city at the foot of El Misti volcano, provides access to Colca Canyon and, for those who have more time, even deeper into Cotahuasi. The rail journey after lunch connects Cusco, Puno and Arequipa, but the Cusco-Puno road is a perfectly paved road that offers new opportunities for exploring these high-altitude regions.

The mysterious Nazca Lines, which significance still fueles debate, engraved in the rocky desert, should not be missed if you are on the Lima-Arequipa road or on the Pan-American Highway to Tacna and Chile. On the southern coastal route are the Paracas Peninsula (near the Pisco town), which is said to be home to the largest sea lion colony on Earth, and the coastal Ballestas Islands, one of the best seabird watching sites in the world.

Peruvian Jungle

The most popular and by far the most convenient routes are by air to either the Amazon city of Iquitos or to Puerto Maldonado from where you can access the Tambopata Reserve. If you like to observe the magnificent Manu National Park, use land transport from Cusco. Manu has some of the highest levels of biodiversity on the planet and provides great opportunities for animal, butterfly and bird watchers as well as plant lovers. Just spending time hiking or sitting in a hammock in front of a hut in the Amazon jungle will feed your body, mind, and soul through a green, intensely radiant natural world like no other in the world!

Peru Essential Trail: Discover the Most Visited Places in Peru

Peru offers some of the best destinations to explore and discover, where history, culture, and tradition come alive. During your trip to Peru, you can experience the richness of traditional culture in the cities you visit and share in the traditions of the friendly local people. Here, we mention the most popular must-see destinations in Peru:

Cusco: The Heart of the Inca Empire Cusco, once the bustling capital of the Inca Empire and considered by the Incas to be the "Navel of the World," is now a lively hub for travelers. With easy access to the iconic Machu Picchu and a vibrant nightlife scene, it has become a favorite South American destination. The city's blend of ancient Inca ruins and Spanish colonial architecture offers a fascinating glimpse into Peru's rich history.

Lake Titicaca: Cradle of Inca Legends Not far from Cusco lies the serene Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake. According to Inca mythology, this is where the sun god Inti sent the first Incas to bring civilization to the world. Explore the floating islands of the Uros people, made entirely of reeds, and the island of Taquile, where time seems to stand still.

The Peruvian Coast: Where History Meets Mystery The Peruvian coastline is a treasure trove of ancient wonders. Visit the enigmatic Nazca Lines, giant figures etched into the desert by the Nazca civilization, whose purpose remains a mystery to this day. In the north, explore the ancient adobe city of Chan Chan, once the capital of the Chimu Empire, and delve into the culture of the mysterious "Cloud People" in the northern highlands.

Adventures in the Andes Peru’s Andes offer endless opportunities for adventure. Trek through towering peaks and turquoise lagoons, cycle down remote mountainsides, or surf the powerful Pacific waves. East of the Andes, the Amazon jungle stretches towards the heart of the continent, boasting some of the richest biodiversity on Earth. This is a haven for nature lovers, where every step reveals a new discovery.

Lima: The Vibrant Capital Lima, the sprawling capital of Peru, may seem daunting at first, but it’s worth the exploration. The city is a fusion of old and new, with colonial architecture, world-class museums, and a booming culinary scene. The lively districts of Miraflores and Barranco are perfect for tasting Peruvian cuisine and experiencing the city's vibrant nightlife.

Northern Peru: A Land of Contrasts The north of Peru is rich in history and natural beauty. Huaraz, located 7 hours north of Lima, is the gateway to the Cordillera Blanca, a paradise for climbers and trekkers. Combine your adventure with a visit to the ancient Chavin de Huantar, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The northern coastline is dotted with remnants of pre-Columbian cultures, especially around Chiclayo. For surf enthusiasts, Chicama offers some of the longest waves in the world. The northern highlands, home to the city of Cajamarca and the remote Chachapoyas region, reveal hidden archaeological treasures like the fortress of Kuelap.

Central Highlands: History and Nature The central highlands, reachable by road from Lima, Pisco, and Nazca, are a blend of history and natural beauty. Huancayo, Huancavelica, and Ayacucho are key towns offering access to historical sites and the picturesque Mantaro Valley. Roads in this region are improving, making it easier to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. The route from the central highlands to Pucallpa is a gateway to the Peruvian jungle, offering a less-traveled but equally rewarding experience.

Southern Peru: The Crown Jewel of Tourism Southern Peru is home to the country’s most iconic tourist destinations. Cusco, with its unique mix of Spanish colonial and Inca architecture, is the gateway to the Sacred Valley and the breathtaking Machu Picchu. The Classic Inca Trail leads to this "Lost City of the Incas," offering a journey through history and natural beauty.

From Cusco, continue your adventure to Puno and Lake Titicaca, where the unique lifestyle of the lake’s inhabitants can be experienced firsthand. The colonial city of Arequipa, nestled at the foot of the El Misti volcano, is your base for exploring the dramatic Colca Canyon. The southern route also takes you to the mysterious Nazca Lines, the coastal Paracas Peninsula, and the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands.

The Peruvian Jungle: A Green Paradise The Peruvian jungle is a world of its own, with routes leading to the Amazon city of Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado, gateways to the Tambopata Reserve. For those seeking the ultimate wildlife experience, Manu National Park offers unparalleled biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re trekking through the dense rainforest or relaxing in a hammock, the Amazon will captivate your senses and feed your soul.

peru Essentials: Before you Travel to Peru

After you decide to go on holiday to South America, always do a little research on the country that attracts you. You should not only check the political situation but also whether it is necessary to obtain a visa beforehand.
For the Amazon jungle, vaccination against yellow fever and antimalarials is necessary!! Some other parts may require vaccination against typhoid and hepatitis A+B.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended as anything from an accident to a missed flight might happen and it could cost lots of money.
It is recommended to have photocopies of your passport and other valuable documents. Remember that a student ID (ISIC) can save you money on admission and other discounts.
We also recommend a case/belt for money hidden under clothes. Bring some dollars or euros. Travel cards are accepted as debit cards by ATMs. Emergency cash can come in very handy and allow you to travel stress-free without having to look for special places to stay longer or buy something special for yourself or someone else.
Bring a first aid kit and personal medications that you can use. Although pharmacies can be found everywhere in Peru, don't assume that your brand will be available in South America.
Take your time and learn some basic Spanish. It will make a big difference in interacting with South Americans and it might help you to not be cheated.
Electrical adapters are useful if you want to use your personal appliances.
Do not wear valuable jewellery and electronics, otherwise, you will be a striking and easy attraction for thieves.
And most importantly, bring your adventurous spirit, an open mind, and a desire to experience some very unique cultures!