Peru is home to a remarkable diversity of landscapes, including majestic mountain ranges, pristine coastal beaches, lush tropical jungles, and barren looking deserts that actually teem with life. The culture and heritage of Peru is extensive and interesting as well, thanks to its place in history as the seat of power for the ancient Inca people. This was one of the world's most interesting civilizations, and its air of the mysterious and exotic still permeate the country.



The Inca civilization

The Inca civilization dominated what is now Peru for many hundreds of years. It was an advanced civilization for its time, leaving behind ruins of things such as paved streets, well-maintained roads between settlements, and even the tools for astronomy in order to pinpoint the seasonal solstices.

The most famous and popular Incan tourist attraction is the fabled Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. This stunning city dates back to the 1400's, but was lost to the growth of dense jungles shortly after the Spanish invaded Peru and conquered the Inca people. It was rediscovered and brought to the world's attention in 1911, and since then has become arguably the most important archaeological site in all of South America. Hundreds of thousands of people travel to Machu Picchu each year to explore the site and marvel at its construction. Most visitors spend at least one full day there, because anything less makes it nearly impossible to fully explore the area.

Another excellent place to see pieces of the Incan civilization is in Cusco. This ancient city is located high in the Andes Mountains and was the capital city of the Inca empire. Today, Cusco is home to a wonderful marketplace filled with arts, crafts, blankets, and jewelry. You will see long rows of goods available, often in stalls where local women in decorated shawls will spend the day working on their products as people stroll by.

Amazing landscapes and natural areas

Peru has some of the world's most spectacular scenery, with rugged landscapes that are a virtual paradise for hikers and trekking. Manu National Park is another great example of Peru's landscapes, nestled into the dense jungle areas and home to a diverse collection of plants and animals. Some of Peru's indigenous people still live in the park areas, and thanks to strict access rules, several of these tribes remain off limits to all but a few researchers. It is a wonderful example of preserving nature and preserving indigenous culture at the same time.

Another excellent place to take in Peru's natural beauty is at Lake Titicaca. This body of water is the highest navigable lake in the world and surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery you can imagine. There are several sites where remains of local cultures can be found, as well as villages of the Uros people who have lived (literally) on the lake for centuries. Their homes are built on the lake using the plentiful Totora reeds that grow in and around the lake, and they use these reeds to make their boats as well.

Getting there

Travellers to and from Peru generally fly in to one of the country's international airports, such as Jorge Chavez in Lima or Inca Manco Capac in Puno. From there, visitors can arrange air or ground transportation to wherever they want to go. A good option to consider is one of the many organized, guided tours of Peru that will take you just about any of the wonderful sights and attractions in the country.