Peru Uncovered
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Home of the Andes and the incredible Amazon jungle, Peru is a destination for the most intrepid travellers. Peru is a melting pot of different cultures, rich colonial history and remarkable ancient ruins. There are markets to browse, amazing food to try and beautiful architectural monuments to marvel at. Take a look at some of the most intriguing aspects and sites of Peru and you’ll come to see the beauty and wonder of this ancient land.
Lima
Your Peru holiday should include the colourful capital. This bustling metropolis is the site of some of the most beautiful Spanish buildings and lavish colonial architecture in the world. It’s the perfect place to sample tasty Peruvian cuisine, which is known to have a wonderful variety of fresh ingredients including its world-renowned seafood. Visit the Bridge of Sighs to see breath taking views of the ocean or relax by the beach with a delicious Pisco Sour.
Lake Titicaca
Right on the border of Peru flows one of the most fascinating lakes in South America – Lake Titicaca. A sacred place for the Incas, Lake Titicaca is said to be where the earth was created from, according to the Incan mythology. It is situated at a very high altitude, at 3800m above sea level. Taking a tour is the best way to see the many ruins, villages and other sites surrounding the lake. You will learn more about Incan folklore in Puno, where you can see some of the many beautiful attractions such as the old Cathedral and the well-known Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is an extraordinary site and a testimony to the ancient Inca civilisation. The mountainous territory has tremendous archaeological and cultural significance, great views of the river and offers the occasional glimpse of the majestic Condor. Machu Picchu is made up of many walls, terraces and ramps that once served to house the Inca emperor Pachacuti. There are always Peru tours available throughout the year for those wishing to experience the glory of Machu Picchu.
Puno
On the other side of Lake Titicaca lies the province of Puno, the significant agricultural and livestock region of Peru. The history of Puno is entwined in its importance to the Inca Empire, when the king rose from the waters of Lake Titicaca and began the empire under the orders of the Sun God. As time wared on, the town transformed under the Spanish influence whose lavishly decorated churches remain to this day. Sightseeing in Peru should include the Church of San Pedro the Sistine Chapel of the Americas, and the shoreline of Lake Titicaca at the Puno harbor.
Cusco
You trip is not complete without a visit to this historic site of the Inca Empire. Cusco has a rich complex history with a flourishing nightlife and incredibly well-preserved ancient ruins. Some must-see spots include Sacsayhuaman, the site of the 1536 battle, Plaza de Armas, the San Pedro market as well as the various museums; Museo Municipal de Arte Contemporáneo and Museo Historico Regional where you can learn about some of the historic art that was popular during the colonial period.
