Peru
The beauty of the landscapes and cultural richness of Peru are some of the main factors that build its identity. Exploring the country is like embarking on a journey of mysteries in dream settings. The capital Lima charms with its world renowned gastronomy and trendy neighborhoods such as Miraflores and Barranco. Its historic downtown has been revitalized since it was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Highlights of any trip to the country, Machu Picchu and Cuzco are proof of the richness of the Inca culture, living heritage sites of its traditions and history throughout the region. Peru exhibits natural wonders of all kinds: wild rivers, part of the Amazon jungle, deserts, a lake at over 9,000 ft of altitude, biodiversity, archaeological sites and the beautiful Andes mountain range. Writing about everything that makes Peru a remarkable destination isn’t enough to describe the immersive and surprising experiences the country offers the traveler lucky enough to visit it.
BEST TIME TO VISIT: During the summer, the days are more beautiful and sunny, making the tour of Lima much more enjoyable. To visit the archaeological sites in Cuzco and Machu Picchu however, it’s ideal to go during the winter or late autumn. During this period, the drier, less rainy weather facilitates hiking activities in natural landscapes.
It's worth it
MACHU PICCHU is undoubtedly the main attraction in the country. The famous stone city is on every traveler’s wish list, with the atmosphere of the place bringing out the mysteries that surround Inca culture. Visiting the ruins and learning about the history of this Empire and its vast body is an unforgettable experience!
Close to the city of Paracas, ISLAS BALLESTAS is a small archipelago and an active sanctuary for marine biodiversity, with an untouched beauty. On the way there, a curious view: a huge chandelier carved in the sandy mountain next to the sea. Many believe that it was made by the Nazca people. Nobody knows why it’s there, but like any good mystery, there are countless theories about it.
Like Machu Picchu, CUZCO is one of Peru's most outstanding regions. Capital of the Inca Empire, the city is an open-air museum, filled with history and curiosities. Located more than 9,000 feet above sea level, the site has unique architecture, historic ruins, museums and alleys made out of stone that give us a small sample of the cultural richness of the famous civilization.
OLLANTAYTAMBO is a small town in the Sacred Valley that has stone streets and ruins that transport us to the past. Located between Cuzco and Machu Picchu, the place is a good choice for a stop when visiting these destinations. A highlight in the city is the Temple of the Sun, which is at the highest point and is made of pink granite blocks that weigh tons! It’s still a mystery, to this day, how the blocks were brought there.
Tips
Feast of the Sun
Equivalent to our New Year's celebration, this festival originated in the Inca civilization with offerings to the Sun King. It takes place during the winter, and the natives used the party to thank for good harvests or to ask for good ones in the coming year. The stagings are open to the public and take place in the Cuzco region, in the Temple of the Sun, Plaza de Armas and Saqsaywaman. It’s worth experiencing this demonstration of Peru's rich culture!
Astrid y Gastón Restaurant
Initially a restaurant specializing in French cuisine, today it’s on the list of the best restaurants in the world with its Peruvian cuisine of impeccable quality, offering the country's multiculturalism in its menu.
Central Restaurant
Home of famous chef Virgilio Martínez Véliz, the place was voted one of the best in Latin America by the British magazine “Restaurant”. The house offers dishes based on native Peruvian ingredients and is known for enhancing details in every meal. Here, everything is very original, with a menu based on the different climates and regions of Peru. These dishes look like real works of art!