Mention Peru and many instantly think of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. While the 15th century Incan citadel’s magnificent ruins and unforgettable views are a mainstay of any Peruvian visit, the country bursts with both natural and man-made wonders to explore, thanks to its more than 15,000 years of history.
Luxury small group journeys by Alexander + Roberts ensure travelers get to experience all of Peru’s culture, history and vibrant contemporary life. Here are some sights not to be missed.
Explore Cuzco and the Sacred Valley
Cuzco, capital of the former Inca empire, preserves many of the traditions of early Peruvian life. Travel to the Sacred Valley and meet women weaving the same way they have done for hundreds of years, using the wool from the native alpacas, llamas and vicunas that gather in the valley. Visit relics from both the Inca and colonial eras, including Sacsayhuaman, a massive stone monument built by the Inca in the 1400s. Another highlight is the circular terraces of Moray, which some scholars believe the Inca used as an agricultural testing station.
Shop the San Pedro Market
Not to be missed, the San Pedro Market in Cuzco fills the streets with endless rows of vendors selling everything from meats, fruits, vegetables and juices to crafts, hand-knit sweaters and fresh-baked goods. It’s also a good chance to sample some traditional Peruvian street foods.
See Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is one of the most well-preserved and well-known archaeological sites from the Inca civilization. Located high up in the Andes Mountains, its true purpose remains unknown, but one of the most common speculations is that it was a palace for the emperor Pachacuti. The 200-building complex includes roads, terraces, irrigation canals and temples made of stones that fit together like puzzle pieces, without mortar or pegs.
Among its Peru tour options, Alexander + Roberts offers a luxury train ride from Cuzco to Machu Picchu.
Take a Walking Tour of Lima
After Spain conquered the Inca in the mid-1500s, it ruled Peru for 300 years, imparting the Spanish language and many aspects of its culture. The capital, Lima, was founded by the leader of the Spanish expedition, Francisco Pizzaro, and is rich with the Spanish colonial influence as well as the Inca dynasty.
A walking tour of Lima is a stroll through hundreds of years of history. Not far from the main square is the Lima Cathedral and numerous museums, including the Larco Museum, which features pre-Columbian artifacts and is perfect to visit before exploring Inca sites in the Andes. Make sure to stop by Barranco, a neighborhood home to artists, galleries and cafes.
Also known as the culinary capital of South America, Lima boasts a food scene featuring a mix of indigenous, local and international foods.
Bring Home a Taste of Peru
Cooking classes, such as those offered on Alexander + Roberts luxury small group journeys, go beyond the kitchen. You’ll explore the cultural roots of each dish, learn about native ingredients and even shop like a local with guided market visits.
Visit Lake Titicaca and Learn About Amazon Ecosystems
At an altitude of 12,500 feet above sea level, Lake Titicaca, on the border of Peru and Bolivia, is the highest navigable lake in the world. A wide variety of plant and animal species live in and around the lake, including one of the planet’s largest aquatic frog species. The lake also is home to the Uros people, who live on floating reed islands.
If you’re interested in a jungle trek, pick from assorted guided tours of the Amazon rainforests and consider a stay at Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica, one of the most highly regarded eco-lodges in the world.
Head to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands
Of course, there is always more to see. Alexander + Roberts offers pre and post excursions to additional locations in Peru and even beyond to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. For example, add an Amazon cruise, which could include a trip through the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. This huge wetland reserve, Ecuador’s largest, teems with swamps, streams and plants and wildlife along the shores. In the Galapagos, you can explore different islands by boat and view the native wildlife and unique terrain.
Alexander + Roberts offers luxury small group journeys to must-see destinations around the world, including Africa, Asia, the Mediterranean and Middle East, Latin America, Australia and New Zealand.
Book your experience with a AAA travel advisor.
All photos are courtesy of Alexander + Roberts.
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