Photo credit: Pirotek via photopin cc
Machu Picchu
Peru is well known for being the home to one of the Seventh Wonders of the World, the Incan city of Machu Picchu. The tour into the Lost City of this ancient Incan wonder is one of the most famous tourist attractions known across the world. Here you can hike for four days along the Lost Trail to the Lost City and all its glory. It is a challenging tour but well worth it – the experience is one you will not forget and is the most visited tourist attraction in Peru. <Amazon Rainforest>
This country features the second largest rainforest after Brazil and is well worth a venture. In fact, up to 60% of the country is covered by the Peruvian Amazon rainforest offering a dense and rich ecosystem for exploring. Access to the area is rugged and difficult so flying is recommended but once you are in amongst the beautiful landscaping and camping by one of the lakes in the rainforest you will be glad you made the effort.
The Floating Islands of Lake Titicaca
These floating islands are made up of reeds and are quite an experience. Not only will you be visually stimulated, you will have the opportunity to come across Peruvian Aboriginal tribes dating back to pre-Incan times. Places like Intrepid and their online venture http://www.myadventuretravel.com/ will give you a wide range of tours to choose from including a one day tour that takes in the hustle and bustle of the area, its colourful people and the local markets and surroundings.
Huacachina
About 4-5 hours south of Lima you will find the desert village of Huacachina. This village is centered around a lake and surrounded by large sand dunes. For this reason it has become popular amongst tourists who want to take advantage of the many sandboarding experiences on offer or popular sand dune buggy riding.
The City of Lima
Although having a bad reputation for safety, this city, which is the largest metropolitan city in Peru is very rich in culture and is scattered with museums, galleries and cathedrals. It has a vibrant nightlife and an endless supply of shops for the shopping addict!
Cordillera Blanca
For those who are very athletic and adventurous you may choose to head several hours north of Lima and take in Huaraz and its beautiful snowcapped peaks and glaciers. This is very popular amonst those who are keen hikers and mountain climbers as this gateway contains the highest range of the Peruvian Andes. It contains the highest mountain in the country, The Huascaran, and is arguably the best place in South America for trekking.
Colca Canyon
This amazing canyon is famous for being twice as deep as the US Grand Canyon and home to the huge Andean Condor, a bird that features the largest wing span of any land bird on the planet at 3.2 metres. If hiking is not necessarily your thing, a trip here to take in the beautiful surroundings is at least worthy of a vist.
