Stress is part of our everyday life with work and family life, making our blood pressure rise. Traveling is a great way to relieve the stress level and to relax and enjoy a few weeks every year. Where to go on your annual vacation is sometimes the most challenging thing you will think about when planning a holiday. South America is a continent that people often overlook and that should not be the case. The high Andean country of Peru has much to offer the world traveler, and you should consider the many Peru tours available for your next trip.
Although there is much to see in Peru and what you choose to do will depend on your time and budget.
LIMA
When you arrive in Peru, you will land into the Capital of Lima. Until around ten years ago, Lima had a bad reputation as a dangerous and dirty city. In recent years, the city has had a turnaround and the city is a great place to spend a few days when you visit Peru. Lima is one of the best places in the world for foodies and in the summer months it is a great place to be outdoors and should be considered as part of your when to travel to Peru planning.
PARACAS
Further down the coast is the beachside suburb of Paracas. The town is small but has many wonderful hotels and resorts to spend a few days relaxing. While you are in the area, take the time to take a speedboat ride out to the Ballestas Islands. The islands are home to colonies of Sea Lions that you will see all resting on the rocky islands. Also famous for the birds that call the islands home.
NAZCA
After you have visited Paracas travel further south to the desert town of Nazca. The main attraction is just out of town; the famous Nazca Lines are located in the desert and can only be seen by small plane. The lines remain a mystery today as to who made the lines and for what reason. On a flight, you will see the monkey, lizard, the spider, and many other of the lines.
AREQUIPA
In the south of Peru is Arequipa, Peru’s second city and what a charming place it is. The city has a dry warm climate and is surrounded by three impressive volcanos. Arequipa is calmer than Lima and has a laid-back atmosphere. The buildings in Arequipa are mainly made of white stone giving Arequipa the name the White City.
COLCA CANYON
Not far from Arequipa is the Colca Canyon, the second deepest canyon in the world, Colca is set among the high Andes and there are hikes available to the bottom of the canyon so if you wish you will need to put aside around 4 days. Not only is the canyon the only attraction, but the majestic Condors also put on a show that is to be seen to be believed.
PUNO & LAKE TITICACA
Puno and Lake Titicaca are worth a visit. Lake Titicaca is one of the highest lakes in the world and has an interesting history. The lake sparkles with the sun and the clear blue sky making it appear like a mirror. When you are in Puno, you must take a tour of the lake and visit the Uros Islands. These manmade islands are like nothing anywhere else. The islands were made by the Uros people hundreds of years ago with the reeds, that grow in the lake. Do not forget to include Lake Titicaca as part of your Peru private tours.
CUSCO
From Puno travel north to the Imperial Inca city of Cusco. The center of the city was the main Inca Plaza and was 3 times as big as what we see today. The city is full of if Inca foundations which the Spanish built their churches and houses on. The lovely stone streets are worth exploring, as there is plenty to see and do. Visit the many museums to get an idea of the history.
While you are in the Cusco area, spend some time in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The valley is full of some of the most naturally beautiful places in Peru. The mountain peaks are spectacular and the valleys have raging rivers running through. The climate is mild which is what attracted the Inca to use the valley to grow most of their food. Not only is the valley naturally beautiful there are also some fascinating Inca ruins to tour. The ruin at Pisaq located above the town has an interesting history and is worth a guided tour. Also located in the Valley is the fortress of Ollantaytambo.
Know more about the best things to do in Cusco city.
MACHU PICCHU
No Peru tours would be complete without a visit to Machu Picchu. The Inca Citadel is located near the city of Cusco, high in the Peruvian Andes an hour’s flight from Lima, the capital of Peru. From Cusco, either you can catch a train, of which there are many, or you can hike also with many variations. The site was covered in dense jungle vegetation and luckily was never discovered by the Spaniards so it was mostly intact. The magnificence of the Inca builders and the location will be something that will live with you forever.
If you do not want to stress about your Peru tours budget than there are plenty of budget options for your holiday to Peru, why not book your tour today.