When you think about South America, Peru is probably not the first country that comes to mind. But if you’re looking for a destination that’s both exotic and diverse, Peru should definitely be on your list. With more than 25 million people living in over 1,500 different villages and over 3,000 miles of coastline, Peru has something for everyone. And with a growing economy and increasing tourism levels, there’s never been a better time to visit.
Lima
Lima, the capital of Peru, is a fascinating city with lots to see and do. The colonial core of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with many noteworthy attractions including the Plaza de Armas, La Casa de la Moneda (the presidential palace), and San Francisco Cathedral. There are also plenty of modern neighborhoods worth exploring, such as Miraflores and La Molina. Lima has an extensive cultural scene with plenty of museums and theaters to enjoy. Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and mountaineering can be enjoyed in nearby peaks or along the coast. Finally, Lima is home to some great restaurants that offer a variety of Peruvian dishes.
Cusco
The Inca city of Cusco is one of the most important archaeological sites in South America and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site covers an area of over 100 square kilometers and contains over 500 temples and citadels, as well as palaces, baths, and other institutions. Highlights include the Machu Picchu citadel, Qoricancha temple, and Sacsayhuaman ruins.
The city has plenty of museums to visit including the Museo Histórico Nacional (National Historical Museum), which houses relics from the Incan empire, as well as pieces from other pre-Columbian cultures in Peru. There are also several art galleries scattered around town including the Museo de Arte Religioso (Religious Art Museum) and the Galería del Renacimiento (Renascence Gallery).
There are plenty of activities available in Cusco including hiking through the Andes Mountains or taking a trip on one of the many privately operated buses that offer scenic routes through the countryside. Alternatively, you can book a tour with one of the many local operators who know all about Cusco’s history and attractions.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1981. The site covers an area of over 160 square kilometers and contains more than 150 ruins, including the Inca citadel, Machu Picchu Pueblo, and the Temple of the Sun. The citadel is perched atop a hill overlooking Machu Picchu village.
The ruins were constructed between 1430 and 1532 by the Inca emperor Pizarro. Legend has it that he ordered his men to tear down an old temple to build a new one at Machu Picchu because he had seen a vision of the sun god arising from its summit. Today, many visitors believe that Machu Picchu was actually a religious center rather than just a military fortress.
One of the most popular activities at Machu Picchu is hiking to different parts of the site. There are also several visitor centers where you can buy tickets and take tours. Some people also enjoy visiting nearby towns such as Aguas Calientes or Ollantaytambo for lunch or dinner before returning to explore more of Machu Picchu later on in the day.
Nazca Lines
The Nazca Lines are some of the most mysterious and puzzling lines in the world. Created about 2,500 years ago, these geoglyphs stretch for over 100 miles across a desert plateau in southern Peru. They are composed of what appear to be simple geometric shapes, but because they are so far apart and have never been fully understood, experts still cannot say with certainty what their purpose may have been. Some believe that they could have been used as navigation aids, while others say that they might have had religious or ceremonial significance. Whatever the case may be, these lines remain one of Peru’s most popular destinations for photographers, and if that is something you are interested in, you can check big photo.
The Amazon rainforest
The Amazon rainforest is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. It’s home to an incredible variety of plants and animals, many of which are found nowhere else. The forest is also a critical part of the global climate system.
It covers more than 5 million square miles (13 million square kilometers). It’s the world’s largest rainforest, and it accounts for about 20 percent of all the world’s rainforest. The rainforest is also the most diverse place on Earth in terms of plant and animal life. There are more than 1 million different species of plants there as well as more than 2,000 different types of animals.
The Amazon rainforest is a vital part of the global climate system. About 20 percent of all the energy that goes into creating our planet’s atmosphere comes from sunlight that bounces off trees. This light energy helps to create clouds and rainfall, which helps to keep our planet cool. Without the Amazon rainforest, we would be facing serious climate change problems.
Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It is considered to be one of the most sacred places in the world and has been home to many cultures for thousands of years. The area was first settled by the Inca Empire around 1000 AD, and has remained a popular tourist destination ever since.
This place is known for its stunning natural scenery, including towering mountains, fertile farmland, and rushing rivers. The area is also home to several important religious sites, including Machu Picchu, one of the most famous Inca ruins. Tourists can explore the sites at their own leisure or take guided tours that include transportation and meals.
This is a popular tourist destination that offers visitors a variety of attractions and experiences. Those looking to explore the site at their own pace can do so by taking self-guided tours or by renting a bike or hiking guide from local businesses.
Conclusion
Peru is a country filled with beautiful natural landmarks and attractions, perfect for those who love to explore. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Peru has something for everyone. The best part? Most of the attractions are free to visit! So, what are you waiting for? Jump on a plane and start exploring Peru today!
