Highlights of a Peru Vacation

No matter if you are in pursuit of sports adventure, ornearby Cajamarca's rejuvenating hot springs.
an archaeological phenomenon, a visit to Peru trulyFamous for its reputation as the gringo hangout of
satisfies. Nestled between Bolivia to its south andSouth America, Cusco is also the oldest inhabited city
Ecuador to its north, this seaside country also sharesin Peru and an archaeology lover's dream. With
borders with Chile, Brazil, and Columbia. For the natureaccess to the mountaintop city of Machu Picchu, the
enthusiast, Peru's oddly contradicting natural featuressacred Urubamba Valley, and plenty of exciting
produce a fascinating array of wildlife, including whales,nightlife, Cusco is considered the most important hub
giant otters, and jaguars. Head east of the Andes intofor travelers to the Incan Empire. Travel back in time
the Peruvian jungle, where you'll glimpse some of thestrolling stone wall-lined streets and mingle with friendly
richest biodiversity on earth. Peru has severalQuechua-speaking Incan descendants. From Cusco,
well-established national parks along the deserttake the southern coastal route along the magnificent
seacoast, at the edge of the "Altiplano", and amongParacas Peninsula to see the largest sea lion colony
the high Andean Cordillera.on earth. Just offshore, the Ballestas Islands lure nature
Rich in ancient culture and tradition, Peru is also homelovers with some of the best seabird watching in the
to imperial ruins of great civilizations, including the lostworld.
city of Machu Picchu and The Nasca Lines, an enigmaDubbed "The White City" for its beautiful buildings
of mysterious desert etchings. The Peruvian Andesconstructed of a light-colored volcanic rock called sillar,
provide unrivalled mountain trekking and cyclingArequipa is surrounded by breathtaking mountains,
prospects for the adrenaline seeker, as well as theincluding the volcano El Misti, providing ample photo
spiritual traveler seeking the teachings of a shaman. Atopportunities. Be sure to include a visit to the historical
the other end of the spectrum there is Lima, Peru'sConvento de Santa Catalina, a colonial house of
desert metropolis boasting some of the best nightlife,worship. Don't miss a trip to Iquitos, the most popular
music, and museums in all of South America.Amazonian city within the Peruvian jungle. Located in
Lima, known as Peru's "city by the sea", is a virtualthe northern region of the Amazon Basin, Iquitos is a
metropolis on the central desert coastline, as well ascentral starting point for jungle exploration.
an economic magnet for highland and AmazonianA trip to Peru cannot be considereed thorough without
villagers. The bustling sophistication of Lima isa visit to the spectacular Manu Biosphere Reserve.
guaranteed to indulge the cosmopolitan traveler'sThis is considered to be one of the most remote and
every desire. First class museums and nightlife,untouched locations in the world. The hidden depths of
indigenous music, dazzling architecture, historicalthe Amazon lead traverers to discover a world
neighborhoods, and friendly locals abound. Head northteeming with exotic birds and mammals. So, in just two
of Lima, to Huaraz, Peru's mountaineering center, or upweeks, you can see and do so much in this unique
the coast to Chicama for surfing and traditionalcountry.
Peruvian fishing. Afterwards, soothe sore muscles at