The republic of Peru is a country at the west-coast of South-America, bordering Colombia, Ecuador, Brazil, Bolivia, and Chile. Practically throughout the whole country the Andes mountain range can be found, running from North to South. This country is famous for its Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca city high in the mountains. In recent years has turned into an attractive tourist destination.
Peru has a rich history full of ancient cultures and civilizations. It is believed that the oldest civilization of the Americas has first settled here.
The first signs of human presence in Peru date back to approximately 9.000 Before Christ. Societies living in the Andes were depending on agriculture and used many for that time modern techniques. The most important society of Peru were the Inca’s, with their capital in Cuzco. In the 15th century The Inca’s grew to become the most powerful and largest empire of the pre-Columbian America.
Between 1572 and 1821 the country was rules by Spain, thus still having many Spanish influences. Today Peru is focussing on sustaining economic growth, while profiting from the increased tourism in the country.
Peru has 3 different regions, all with its own characteristics and highlights:
The Selva is tropical rain forest, here the temperatures and humidity are high. A lot of unique animals can be found in the tropical rain forest.
La costa or the coast, exists mainly of rock and sand desert. The coastal area is located in the foothills of the Andes. The temperatures are relatively low (around 14 degrees) with exception of the north. The coastline is around 2000 kilometres long from Chile to Ecuador.
Finally, there is the sierra, this are the plain fields that are located between the mountain hills and the Amazon rain forest. About 40% from the Peruvian inhabitants still live in the sierra. The most of those inhabitants are indigenous people.
Peru is one of south-America’s most popular tourist destinations, and this is not without a reason. There is a lot of wildlife to be seen, and there are truly stunning sightings to be seen. From the Machu Picchu to the rainbow mountains and the scenic city of Cuzco, Peru will not leave you disappointed.
Classic peru 5 days
Classic peru 8 days
Peru cultural experience 8 days