Peru has a fascinating blend of Inca and Spanish colonial heritage with European influence. The natural wonders of the Andes stretch the full length of the country and rise to over 7,000 metres, and the arid coastlines and lush rainforests provide a breathtaking backdrop for the history and man-made ruins. Peru really is one of the most diverse countries on the planet, with more than 80% of the world’s ecosystems represented. Peak season for visiting the Andean highlands is from September to May, which sees the start of Peru's spring through to the end of autumn. The rest of the year can be rainy, which offers greener scenery and a greater abundance of flora. The Amazon Basin is hot, wet and humid all year round.

Lima

Lima is the gateway to Peru and has some fascinating museums which provide the perfect introduction to the history of the country. The historical centre of Lima was once reputed as one of the most beautiful cities in Latin America and is a fascinating place to explore.

Cuzco

This beautiful colonial city was once the capital of the Inca Empire and is home to the Koricancha Temple, devoted to the worship of the sun. Cuzco provides a great base from which to explore the nearby attractions such as Machu Picchu and Sacsayhuaman, believed to be an ancient fortress, as well as other Inca sites which are found in the surrounding hills.

Peruvian Amazon

The Peruvian Amazon is thought to be the best preserved and most biologically diverse. Located east of the Andes, from the Equator to the southern borders with Brazil and Bolivia, it covers almost two thirds of Peru. There are many parks and reserves within the jungle including Manu, Pacaya Samiria and Tambopata.

Manu Biosphere Reserve

This vast and pristine wilderness is the most wildlife–rich area of the Amazon accessible to visitors. Located north of Cuzco accessible by short flight or two day road and river journey, the 1.8 million hectares of grasslands, cloudforest and tropical lowlands is home to an incredible diversity of vegetation and wildlife including giant otters, jaguars, ocelots and over 1,000 species of birds. The best time to visit the area is between April and October. Trips to Manu operate on certain days of the week on a group basis from Cuzco.

Iquitos and the Amazon River Basin

Gateway to the northern Amazon jungle, Iquitos is the largest city in the Peruvian rainforest. Surrounded by the Amazon, the Nanay and Itaya rivers and the lush green forests, it is only accessible by boat or plane. This part of the rainforest is home to ancient Amazonian tribes as well as a variety of wildlife. It is a great location from which to enjoy a river cruise.

Arequipa

Known as the White City due to the volcanic rock used in its construction, Arequipa is home to the beautiful Santa Catalina convent founded in 1580 and still home to an order of nuns. From Arequipa you can visit the Salinas & Aguada Blanca National Reserve, the home of cameloids. There is also a wide range of migratory and sedentary birds to be seen.

Colca Canyon

Located between Arequipa and Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world and one of the best places to see the Andean condor.

Lake Titicaca

Located over 3,800 metres above sea level, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. The floating artificial islands of Uros have been made by tying together totora reeds that grow in the lake, and have been inhabited by the locals for centuries.

The Sacred Valley

Once the spiritual and commercial heart of the Inca Empire, this winding valley is home to many ancient Inca citadels and remnants of a fortress at Ollantaytambo. These ruins provide an insight to Inca life five thousand years ago.

Machu Picchu

The ruins of Machu Picchu, believed to be an important ceremonial centre, were rediscovered in 1911. This ‘Lost City of the Incas’ is one of the most beautiful and enigmatic ancient sites in the world.

Nazca Lines

The gigantic figures engraved on the surface of the Peruvian desert are a fascinating archeological sight, dating back to 400 BC. The etchings of geometric shapes and animals which make up the Nazca Lines are best viewed by a scenic flight which can be added to the itinerary above. You can also view ancient mummies in the museum in Ica or take a boat trip from Paracas to the Ballestas Islands to see the sea lions, penguins and birds.

The Inca Trail - Treks and Hikes

Many are the routes that take you to Machu Picchu, but there is none like the Inca Trail, the most famous pedestrian route in the Americas. We offer this and a number of other authentic, adventures experiences in Peru.