It’s OK to confess you wish to go to Peru for the lovable camelids. No drama llama. Alpaca the luggage.
But – now that the unhealthy puns are out of the way in which – it’s value mentioning that there’s a lot extra to see in relation to wildlife and nature in Peru. This South American magnificence is definitely some of the biodiverse nations on the planet. Throw in a smattering of charismatic cities, wealthy indigenous cultures and historic ruins galore, and it’s simple to see why so many travellers put Peru on the prime of their bucket record (llama lover or not).
From the Andes to the Amazon and all the things in between, listed below are a few of our favorite methods to expertise the very best Pachamama (Mother Earth) has to supply in Peru.
Immerse your self within the Amazon
The Amazon rainforest will soothe your soul, whereas presenting a stark reminder of the necessity to defend our planet. On Intrepid’s Premium Peru journey, you’ll cruise alongside the Tambopata river – looking out for capybaras, caimans, macaws and extra – and wake to a refrain of birdsong after spending the evening at an eco lodge owned by the native Ese Eja group.
Skip the crowds and hike Palcoyo, the lesser-known ‘Rainbow Mountain’
Peru’s ‘Rainbow Mountain’ was an immediate hit with travellers when its blanket of snow melted in 2015 – most definitely because of local weather change – revealing the height’s vibrant streaks. Today, summiting kaleidoscopic Vinicunca is on many a journey want record, however the rising crowds may provide the ‘ick’. On our Peru Encompassed journey, choose as an alternative for an tour to Palcoyo, the place the climbing trails are a little bit simpler on the legs and also you get three kaleidoscopic peaks for the worth of 1 – every with the identical astounding stripes, simply not one of the crowds.
Experience a novel lifestyle on Lake Titicaca
Titicaca is the most important lake in South America and one of many highest on the planet, at round 3,810m above sea stage. No go to is full with out a journey to the Uros Islands – 120 purpose-made islets crafted from the roots and reeds of the totora plant. The indigenous Uros households that reside right here additionally use the ever-present reeds to construct their properties and boats, make medication and even brush their tooth. Back on firmer land, on journeys akin to Sacred Land of the Incas, you’ll keep in a single day on the lake shore with an area household.
Explore desert dunes and a real-life oasis in Huacachina
No, it’s not a mirage. There actually is an oasis on the sting of the Ica desert – and this tiny city has turn into a traveller hub, due to its towering dunes, blazing sunsets and glowing lagoon. Adrenaline junkies on our Peru Encompassed journey can surf down the sandy slopes or carve some shapes on a dune buggy tour, whereas others will likely be proud of the desertscape surroundings, finest seen from the ever-shifting dune tops.
Trek or prepare to Machu Picchu for epic views and Inca historical past
Think Peru, assume Machu Picchu? You’re not alone. The world heritage-listed Inca ruins are the nation’s most coveted attraction – and the spectacular archaeology and accompanying mythology are solely enhanced by the glory of the encircling jungled peaks. Tackle the lofty Inca Trail or lesser-known Quarry Trail, or just take within the surroundings from the consolation of a prepare – nevertheless you get there, put together to be gobsmacked.
Discover Ballestas Islands – Peru’s reply to the Galapagos
Peru is thought for its high-altitude hikes, distant Inca ruins and unimaginable jungles – however its shoreline is simply as enchanting. When you solid off from the coast of Paracas to discover the Ballestas Islands by boat on the Premium Peru with Ica Valley journey, you’ll see what we imply. Dramatic pure stone arches and hovering cliffs are circled by seabirds of their 1000’s, and seals and sea lions sunbathe on craggy outcrops. If you’re fortunate, you may even spot just a few Humboldt penguins or a pod of migrating whales.
Introduce the children to camelids at an alpaca farm close to Cusco
Indigenous communities in Peru have lengthy used the gentle fibres from the nation’s native camelids – domesticated alpacas and llamas and wild vicuñas and guanacos – to create their vibrant textiles. While you’ll probably spot loads of these doe-eyed creatures in your Peruvian travels, it’s value stopping by Awanacancha, a dwelling museum close to Cusco that preserves and celebrates Andean tradition and provides friends an opportunity to fulfill a herd of long-lashed, toothy floofs. It’s kid-friendly too – time for a Peru Family Holiday?
Wake up and odor the espresso and cacao on a farmstay close to Ollantaytambo
Peru’s up to date meals scene has earned international acclaim in recent times – however its earthy flavours and cherished ‘superfoods’ have been nourishing the locals for hundreds of years. You’ll get the prospect to be taught extra about two of South America’s most well-known beans (espresso and cacao) on our Peru Real Food Adventure, and chow down on a plant-based feast at a rural farmstay.
Spot the mighty Andean condor in Colca Canyon
Peru isn’t wanting mind-blowing panoramas, however Colca Canyon is up there with the very best. Twice as deep because the USA’s Grand Canyon, it has a lot to supply the adventurous traveller – from rafting and trekking to thermal sizzling springs. Numerous vantage factors supply the prospect to see historic terraces farmed since pre-Inca occasions. If you’re fortunate, you may spot a formidable Andean condor hovering on thermal winds on our Peru Encompassed journey.
Keen to expertise all of it for your self? Browse our Peru journeys and get reserving.