Peru: A Traveler’s Eye View
Peru, a hub of antiquity tucked away in South America, houses a rich tapestry of cultures and topography that stretches across its borders. Pricked with towering Andean peaks and punctuated with the riddles of its past civilizations, it’s a destination with a story for everyone.
Getting Around Peru
Traveling in Peru is quite an adventure, whether it’s on foot or behind the wheel. It boasts a robust network of buses and taxis, providing convenient transportation from coastal cities to highland towns. Keep an eye on your belongings, keeping them in sight at all times to prevent any untoward incidents.
Car rentals can be more flexible for getting around but come with their own challenges. Always remember to check the car thoroughly and understand the rental terms before setting off on your journey. The public transport system is a more affordable and environmentally friendly option, with both urban and rural areas accessible by bus, colectivos (shared taxis), and mototaxis.
Lima: The Urban Heartbeat of Peru
Taking the throne as Peru’s capital, Lima is an energetic city brimming with skyscrapers overlooking the Pacific Ocean. From its colonial buildings to its chic seafood restaurants, Lima is a city that reconciles the past with the futuristic, making it a cultural hotspot.
Enjoy the city’s harmony of flavors with its bustling food scene. Peruvian cuisine is a fusion of tastes from its coastal area, jungle, and the Andes. Lima’s famous ceviche, a raw fish dish, and lomo saltado, a hearty beef stir fry, are unmissable.
Cusco: The Gateway to the Past
Known as the gateway to the Inca Empire, the city of Cusco is steeped in history. Your tour of Cusco starts at the Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city. Beautiful colonial buildings surround the square, including the Cathedral of Cusco and the Church of the Society of Jesus.
Explore the San Blas neighborhood – a bohemian artist enclave, showcasing Cusco’s artistic side. Stroll among the cobblestone streets, charmingly decorated with finely carved doorways and flower-filled balconies.
The Magic of Machu Picchu
Arguably the jewel in Peru’s crown, Machu Picchu remains shrouded in mystery. The Incan site is hidden between the Amazon Basin and the Andes, making it an adventurous trip. Start your journey from Cusco, taking a train to Aguas Calientes, then a short bus ride to the historical sanctuary. Be sure to arrive in Machu Picchu early to witness the foggy sunrise unveiling the ancient city.
Peruvian Amazon: Unleashing Your Inner Explorer
The Peruvian Amazon stretches over 60% of Peru and is a haven for the adventurous souls and avid nature enthusiasts. The entrance to the world’s largest rainforest is from Puerto Maldonado, where you can hop on a boat to the rainforest lodges.
With its dense vegetation and rich biodiversity, the rainforest pulls you into a world of vivid colors and exotic creatures. Spot pink dolphins, swim with river otters, and meet over 800 species of birds. Listen to the tales of tribal communities, living in harmony with this wild wonderland.
Arequipa: An Architect’s Dream
The city of Arequipa is a canvas painted with colonial influence. UNESCO recognizes its historic center as a World Heritage Site, with a good reason: it’s a testament to the ingenious blend of indigenous and European elements.
Walk through the cobblestone streets, tracing history lurking in the shadow of the mighty El Misti Volcano. Visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, inhabit the artists’ alley ‘Paseo de las Artes,’ and indulge in a plate of Rocoto Relleno to complete your Arequipa experience.
From Lima’s gastronomical feats to Cusco’s brick-and-mortar history, from the mysteries of Machu Picchu to the biological grandeur of the Amazon, and finally, to the architectural treasures of Arequipa, Peru is the canvas of a vibrant and intriguing panorama.
