If you think Peru is only about Machu Picchu…keep reading!
While I do have to admit, Machu Picchu is jaw-dropping, Peru is so much more. From ancient history to deep routed culture and traditions, it is also an adrenaline junkie’s paradise, and it is even home to some of the best cuisine in the world.
With more than 10,000 years of history, Peru is one of the six cradles of civilization. This great legacy is encapsulated by Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Embedded within a dramatic landscape at the meeting point between the Peruvian Andes and the Amazon Basin, the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu is among the greatest artistic, architectural and land use achievements anywhere and the most significant tangible legacy of the Inca civilization.
One of my personal favorite spots was the Pisac Ruins in the Sacred Valley. In general, the Sacred Valley was one of my favorite places to visit in all of Peru. The ruins sit 10,826 ft. above sea level and is considered one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Peru. The whole site is spread out over a vast area of the lush green mountain. From the terraces you can see out over the whole city below. It is a very serene and peaceful experience.
Peru may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of an adventure destination, but it is! From surfing the longest wave in the world to walking along ancient paths at 14,760 ft. above sea level, rafting expeditions or camping, Peru is an absolute paradise for adventure seekers.
Peru is one of the countries with the greatest biodiversity on the planet. It is home to 84 out of Earth’s 117 life zones, including jungle, desert, tundra, lakes, mangroves, highland forests, and seas, both warm and icy. It is among the five nations with the most species of birds, amphibians, and mammals. If you’re up for a unique experience, I recommend tacking on a few days and exploring the Peruvian Amazon. Lush jungles teeming with wildlife, most of which you cannot see, but they can see you! The amazon is full of cool experiences from walking across hanging bridges high in the canopy to motorized boat rides at dusk in search of caiman and the South American tapir. It’s a must do.
If that’s not enough for you, Peru has been recognized as the World’s Best Culinary Destination. The combination of techniques from different cultures and Peru’s diverse and fertile lands creates a cuisine like no other.
Pack your hikers, your camera, your stretchy pants, and your bug spray – it’s time to visit Peru!
