5 must-see attractions in Peru
Peru is a destination you simply must visit at least once in your lifetime. Why? Because the country has so much to offer. Inca culture is still very much alive here, Peru’s cuisine is highly regarded, and to make your trip truly complete, you can stay in unique and stunning accommodation. Would you like to go on a wonderful trip of the land of the Incas? Then these five activities are an absolute must.
1. Lima’s culinary delights
With no fewer than two restaurants in the top 100 of the world’s best restaurants, Lima is rightly called the culinary capital of Latin America. Lima is best known for its excellent fish dishes, particularly ceviche. Did you know that ceviche is mainly served as a lunch dish? The fish is caught fresh from the sea and is therefore at its very best. Would you like to explore the city in an original way? Then opt for a culinary city trip followed by a cookery workshop where you’ll learn to use Peruvian cooking techniques. During this culinary city trip, you’ll not only visit the historic buildings and the impressive Inca pyramid just outside the city centre, but you’ll also visit the local market where, together with your guide, you’ll pick up the ingredients for your cooking session. Don’t forget to try the famous Pisco Sour either. Admittedly, there is some disagreement as to whether this popular drink actually originates from Peru or Chile, but believe me; in Lima, the Pisco Sour is certainly not to be missed!
2. The Empire of the Incas
The Sacred Valley is the heart of the Inca Empire, a magnificent oasis of green terraced fields, surrounded by the impressive peaks of the Andes. As soon as you arrive, you’ll understand why the Incas chose this spot to settle. The soil here is extremely fertile and, combined with a mild climate, this made the valley ideal for growing a wide variety of crops. What’s more, it’s a wonderful place to spend some time. Would you like to find out more about the life of the Incas? Then you’ve come to the right place. Stroll through the cobbled streets of Ollantaytambo, discover the colourful folklore of the people of Pisaq and visit the local market. Or take part in a sacred offering ceremony led by a genuine Andean shaman. As soon as you hear the conch shell, the village shaman begins his ceremony to honour the earth goddess Pachamama (Mother Earth). On the banks of the mighty Urubamba River, a small fire burns as the shaman chants his rituals to give thanks to nature. It is a special experience in a setting where hummingbirds flit through the trees and the crisp mountain air surrounds you.
3. Travelling by train through the Peruvian highlands
Just imagine: it’s early in the morning and you’re gazing out of your own compartment at the landscape rolling past you. The immense mountains of the Andes are shrouded in mist and, slowly, a magical world comes to life before your eyes. You travel past blue-coloured lakes and through mountain villages where Peruvian traditions have been kept alive for years. You are on the Belmond Andean Explorer train, the first and only luxury sleeper train in South America. Over three days, you’ll travel from Lake Titicaca to the white city of Arequipa, ending your journey in the Colca Canyon. The Peruvian highlands are an experience in themselves, but travelling on board Belmond’s Andean Explorer train makes the experience just that little bit more special.
4. Spotting condors in the Colca Canyon
As far as I’m concerned, the Colca Canyon is one of Peru’s highlights. The mountains here are incredibly impressive and the views are incredibly sweeping. The Colca Canyon is known as an excellent spot for spotting condors. The condor is considered the largest bird in the world and can have a wingspan of up to three metres. From El Cruz del Condor, you can see these birds up close – a truly special experience! You’ll also find many traditional mountain villages in this region where you can wander through the charming, colourful markets and sample traditional Peruvian cuisine. Fancy staying overnight? That’s possible too. One of the best places to stay in this region is Las Casitas del Colca, part of the Belmond hotels group. The property has just 20 casitas, all of which offer views of the garden or the valley. Here, you can relax in your own lounge and spacious bedroom, and you’ll have access to a private terrace with your own plunge pool.
5. The hidden city of Machu Picchu
A trip through Peru is, of course, not complete without a visit to Machu Picchu. The discovery of this hidden city is regarded as one of the most significant archaeological finds of the twentieth century. But above all, the city is set in spectacular surroundings, which makes this place truly special. There are various ways to visit Machu Picchu. You can walk the famous Inca Trail – a multi-day trek through the land of the Incas, culminating in a sunrise view of Machu Picchu. I myself undertook the Salkantay trek. A varied route that took us to Machu Picchu in five days, past snow-capped mountain peaks, clear blue lakes and the tropical jungle. If you’re not much of a walker, you can also take a luxury train from Cuzco or the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, from where you can visit Machu Picchu. On the train, the impressive views glide past you whilst you enjoy a sumptuous three-course lunch. That sounds like an excellent way to start the day to me.
Fancy a trip of Peru?
Would you like to organise your own trip of Peru and are you curious about the options? Then do have a look at the tours we’ve put together for inspiration. You can book these tours directly, but we’d also be happy to put together a personalised itinerary based on your wishes and ideas.
Do you have an immediate question? Then feel free to contact us. Call +31 73 610 62 04 or send an e-mail to info@sapapanatravel.nl. We are happy to help.