Peru is most famous for the sacred archaeological site of Machu Picchu – visited each year by scores of intrepid hikers who brave the Inca Trail’s arduous slopes to explore the age-old ruins. The country’s attractions extend far beyond the mystical allure of this legendary location and include palm-fringed beaches, quaint Andean villages and archaeological treasures that predate Machu Picchu by hundreds of years – all imbued with the nation’s rich melange of indigenous and colonial cultures. Equally enticing are the exotic reaches of Peru’s Amazon rainforest; Lima’s superb eateries, exquisite architecture and effervescent nightlife; the glittering, mountain-ringed waters of Lake Titicaca; and the vibrant city of Cusco, referred to by the Incas as ‘the centre of the world’.
Peru’s capital is a fantastic city to tour, dotted with a multitude of cultural sites and beautifully preserved architecture. Founded by the conquistador Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima was first named ‘City of Kings’ – a biblical reference to the ‘Three Wise Men of the East’ – before its name was changed by the Spanish colonialists. The most significant historical buildings are located around the Plaza Mayor, the most notable being the Government Palace, where one can still observe the changing of the guard performed by the Húsares de Junín. The beautiful Cathedral and the various small palaces and colonial balconies also play also their part in the beauty of the city. Another highlight is the famed Larco Herrera Museum, documenting the millennial cultures that preceded the Inca civilization and containing a priceless collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, including some of South America's finest pre-Inca erotic pottery.
The small but charming city of Trujillo enjoys a prime location in northwestern Peru. A hive of tourism, Trujillo rests nearby esteemed archaeological sites such as Moche and Chimu, which were once home to ancient civilisations; Chan Chan, the ancient world’s largest adobe city and a designated World Heritage Site; and the vast adobe temples of the Sun and Moon. Trujillo itself is an elegant city of manors and mansions known as Peru’s ‘cultural capital’ for its local traditions and festivals. Those looking for sun, sea and surf should head to beautiful Huanchaco beach, just 12 kilometres out of town, which offers world-class waves and a wide bay fringed by white sand.
Chiclayo, the capital city of northwest Peru’s Lambayeque region and the leading commercial centre, enjoys a prime location surrounded by serene landscapes. Scenic mountains plunging into expansive beaches and bays that offer near-perfect surfing conditions is what one will find at Chiclayo. Also known for its moderate climate, stunning architecture and culinary delights, the town is probably most famous for the impressive archaeological sites nearby. These include Túcume – also known as the Valley of the Pyramids – a complex encompassing the remains of no less than 26 ancient pyramids, and the 1600-year-old Tomb of the Lord of Sipan, a royal ruler who was buried with a hoard of priceless treasures. These precious relics, which rival those discovered in King Tutankhamun’s tomb in their scope and value, are now housed in the Brüning Museum in Lambayeque town, roughly 11 kilometres from Chiclayo.
As previously described
As previously described
Cocachimba is a remote village in the Utcubamba valley that offers authentic 'back-to-basics' nature-based tourism. It is surrounded by spectacular vistas of steep mountain slopes and vast canyons and is blessed with rich biodiversity. Among the town's highlights is the recently-discovered Catarata Gocta, one of the highest waterfalls in the world.
A small, colonial town located on the eastern bank of the Marañón River, Leymebamba – also often spelt Leimebamba – is an alpine town perched at 2,200 metres above sea level in northern Peru. With quiet cobblestone streets, amazing archaeological sights and world-class hiking opportunities, Leymebamba is a highly-recommended addition to any travel itinerary. Don’t miss the Museo de Leymebamba, home to astounding exhibitions, including a collection of more than 200 mummies from the Chachapoya civilisation. Be sure to shop for artisanal products at the Asociacion de Mujeres Artesanas de Leymebamba (found near the town’s central Church), and then lace up your hiking boots to go exploring the heavy canopies of the Peruvian jungle. The ancient ruins of Molinete, Cataneo and Congona are all accessible via day hikes from Leymebamba, while those with more time on their hands should try the epic three-day trek to the bird-rich Laguna de los Condores.
Perched high on Peru's placid northern highlands on the bank of the Cajamarca River, the picturesque colonial city of Cajamarca is one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. While you will find various opportunities for exhilarating day trips to ancient ruins and hot springs, the historic centre is not to be missed. Spend your days exploring the countless convents, Baroque churches, and elaborate stone filigree mansions. The city is centred around the Plaza de Armas, where you will find a 350-year-old fountain, topiary and garden, as well as an impressive cathedral. Other highlights include The Bishop's Palace, the San Pedro church and the Palace of the Condes de Uceda. Just outside the city are the fascinating archaeological relics of the Cumbe Mayo aqueduct and the majestic Ventanillas de Otuzco.
