Peru is a Spanish speaking country bordered to the north by Ecuador and Colombia, west by Brazil, Bolivia and to the south with Chile. The Pacific Ocean stretches along the whole eastern coastline.
Probably best known for its Incan civilization, the iconic Incan site of Machu Picchu, plus the town of the Cusco high in the Andes mountains and the Sacred Valley dotted with Incan ruins, traditional villages, salt mines and agricultural terraces. The classic Inca trail can be walked in 4 days and combines hiking through spectacular cloud forests and mountains at high altitudes, and staying overnight in tents, arriving at the site of Machu Picchu on the last day. Shorter alternative trails are also possible and trails staying in lodges overnight, enquire for more.
Less well known, however, is that Perus is a highly diverse country, the Peruvian Amazon encompasses nearly 60% of the country. The Amazon town of Puerto Maldonaldo is just a short flight from Cusco and is a must do trip if you are a wildlife or nature lover. Explore the wildlife and birds on guided trips from lodges in Tampopata or deep in the forest at Manu National Park. You can observe giant river otter, howler, tamarins, spider, squirrel and titi monkeys, birds such as Scarlet, Blue and Yellow, Military, Red and Green and Blue Headed Macaws that visit the clay licks and the Andean Cock of the Rock. Or fly north to Iquitos and explore the Amazon River from ecolodges here. The rainforest is home to pink river dolphins, black caiman, three toed sloths and bird species such as the harpy eagle.
In the far south of Peru you will find the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world that cuts through the Andes and is the habitat of the majestic Andean Condor, one of the largest flying birds in the world and you can watch them riding the thermals here. Near the canyon is the city of Arequipa, known as the White City, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its beautiful colonial architecture built from white volcanic stone, and its proximity to the majestic El Misti volcano. In the southern region of Peru also lies Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia. The lake is steeped in ancient Andean traditions, with the Uros people living on floating reed islands, and offers stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
Most trips start or end in the Peruvian capital of Lima renowed for its world class cuisines particularly ceviche and pisco sours. A short trip from Lima, you’ll find the Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the "Poor Man's Galapagos." Located off the coast of Paracas National Reserve, these islands are a haven for wildlife lovers. Accessible by boat, the islands are home to large colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and countless seabirds, including pelicans and cormorants.
Due to the size and diversity of Peru, the climates can vary quite considerably between regions but in general, the dry season from May to September is considered the ideal time to visit, particularly if you're heading to the Andean highlands or the Amazon. During these months, the weather is more predictable, and you'll experience sunny days and cooler nights, making it perfect for trekking, including popular hikes to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Peak tourist season is June to August, expect to pay a premium.