Peru
Andes, Amazon and Ancient Civilisations
Boasting no less than ten UNESCO World Heritage sites, and ranking amongst the world's top eight nations in terms of biodiversity, Peru is a land of contrasts, a country brimming with culture, legend, folklore and fascination. From the dryness of the Atacama Desert, to the frozen ice capped peaks of the Andes, across the waters of Lake Titicaca, to the rainforests of the Amazon Basin, scattered remnants of ancient civilisations bring the incredible history of Latin America alive.
With over 1,700 birds, 400 species of mammals, 300 reptiles, and 50,000 plants registered to date, 14% of Peru is designated as Protected Natural Areas. The country is teeming with historical sites, from the ancient fortress of Kuelap to the mysterious Nasca lines – giant geoglyphs including a spider, monkey and hummingbird – indelibly etched into the Peruvian desert, only truly visible from the air. But without doubt, the jewel in Peru’s crown is the legendary Machu Picchu, which in 2007 was voted one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.
Travellers looking for activity and adventure find it all in a holiday to Peru. The snow-capped peaks of the Andes soar to over 6,000 metres and contain remote valleys, picturesque villages, over 15,000 lakes and the world’s deepest canyons. Ideal for trekking, mountain biking and climbing, this range also offers wonderful opportunities for whitewater rafting, hang-gliding and parascending. The coast is ideal for surfing, windsurfing, sandboarding, fishing and scuba diving. There is also excellent fishing to be had in the Amazon jungle, which is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Don’t miss out on the national drink, the delicious Pisco Sour, made with a white grape brandy.