Why Travel To Peru?
Along with beaches, the snow-capped Andes Mountains and deserts, more that 60% of Peru’s surface is blanketed by dense rainforest; Peru shares the Western border of the Amazon. It has one of the longest civilization histories in the world with Caral-supe, the oldest known human settlement in the Americas dating back 5000 years. Unsolved mysteries and intrigues abound, from the Nazca lines indented into the desert around 500 BC, to the re-discovered ‘Lost City of the Incas’, the world famous ruins of the 15th Century Inca citadel, Machu Picchu, built onto the crest of a misted mountain ridge 2430-m high to form a massive, miraculously advanced astrological observatory. Then there’s the culture! There are over 51 indigenous groups calling Peru home in three languages: Spanish, Quechua, and Aymara. This cultural wealth is strongly reflected in the food. Peru is the gastronomic capital of Latin America – the result of tradition, deep flavour and the diversity of ingredients – playing an important part in Peruvian identity.
If you are seeking friendly, welcoming people, absorbing archeological sites, grand vistas and new flavours, all whilst seeing some of the most spectacular places on Earth, then look no further than vibrant, deeply interesting Peru.
Must Eat Dishes
- Lomo Saltado: marinated beef stir-fried in onions, tomatoes, and chilies, served with rice and french fries.
- Cuy (guinea pig): traditionally roasted over an open wood fire and eaten by hand.
- Ceviche: Peru’s national dish. There’s various way to prepare this meal, but you can never go wrong.
Best Experiences
- Visit the breathtaking Machu Picchu ruins with a local guide.
- See first hand how the Uro tribes of Titicaca Lake live today.
- Enjoy a fun evening of a Pisco making tour including Pisco tasting.
Top Sites
- Machu Picchu
- Lake Titicaca
- Cusco
- The Amazon rainforest
- The Rainbow Mountains
- Ollantaytambo Town
Need to know
- Peru has two main seasons, the wet and dry seasons. However, temperatures vary depending on region. The north has an equatorial climate, hot and humid all year round.
- The official language in Peru is Spanish.
- The official currency used in Peru is the nuevo sol (S/).
Solo Female Travel
Peru is often considered one of the best first countries to visit in South America for the friendly locals and safety factor while still experiencing that rich Peruvian culture. Public transportation is possible in Peru to all the major sites and is very navigable. Practice normal caution in Peru and be aware of your surroundings, but enjoy the easy going nature of this incredible country.
