PERU AT A GLANCE
General Information
Peru is the third largest country in South America and extends significantly along the Pacific Ocean. The country is bordered by five other South American gems: Colombia, Brazil, Ecuador, Bolivia and Chile. Peru is a vibrant and unique country and is made up of three distinct regions. The first is the central high sierra of the Andes mountain range which is the best known amongst world travellers. The Andes mountain range is home to many pre-Columbian cities in South America, the most fascinating of which is Machu Picchu - The great city of clouds. The second is Peru's lowland coastal region, an extension of the Atacama Desert. Three of Peru's most popular and populated towns: Lima, Trujillo and Chiclayo are located along this arid coastline. Peru's third and most inaccessible region is made up of dense forests which surround the waters of the Amazon and the eastern slopes of the Andes. This region is only accessible by boat up the Amazon and is usually only visited by the most adventurous spirit.
Peru's climate varies over each of its three regions, a tropical climate pervades the east, the western dessert region is dry and the Andes climate varies from temperate to frigid. The countries official languages are Spanish and the traditional Inca language, Quechua. Though tourists are not to fear as English is spoken in most of the major tourist areas.
Experience the City and Country
Peru is a melting pot of tourist attractions from ancient Inca trails to shopping at the traditional markets for hand crafted goods. Though such an ancient city, Peru is very modernised in certain regions. Lima especially is a hub for nightclubs and casinos and is extraordinarily popular amongst visitors to Peru. In the evenings most of the hotels offer live entertainment made up of singing, dancing and the telling of folklore legends. The food is exceptionally good and meals usually consist of three to four courses. Tourists however should always drink bottled water whilst in Peru just to keep on the safe side. Many happy nights are spent by travellers to this country at their hotels or in small villages experiencing the true delights of both modern and ancient Peru.
Ancient Civilisations
Ancient Peru was the seat of several prominent Andean civilizations, most notably that of the Incas whose empire was captured by the Spanish conquistadores in 1533. One of the greatest of these ancient Inca cities to visit whilst in Peru is Machu Picchu, known amongst locals as the city in the clouds or the lost city of the Incas. This mystical place is set in a remote
and dramatic area of the Andes mountain range. National Geographic has chosen Machu Picchu as one of the World Wonders in its 50 Places of a Lifetime picks. Machu Picchu was thought to be a sanctuary for the preparation of priestesses and brides for the Inca nobility. Visitors who are interested in experiencing the ancient Incan Peru can participate in a number of Inca trails which range from a few hours to a few days. It is truly a once in a life time to experience this ancient city and its shroud of mystery will stay with you long after you leave the country of Peru.
Peru's Natural Wonders
No trip to Peru is complete without a trip to the Nazca Lines, one of the world's greatest archaeological mysteries. The Nazca Lines are a true enigma, no one has proof who built them or why. Since their discovery they have inspired fantastic explanations from ancient gods, a landing strip for returning aliens, to a celestial calendar created by the ancient Nazca civilization. These archaeological mysteries are best viewed by light aircraft. On the border of Peru and Bolivia lies the biggest freshwater lake in South America. Lake Titicaca with it's piercing blue waters and sense of spiritual tranquillity is home to some of the worlds most beautiful islands such as the "Island of the Sun". Visitors to Peru dream of returning to Islands long after their holidays are over.
Peruvian Wildlife Attractions
Wildlife enthusiasts will be treated by the stunning offerings of Manu National Park which is located on the eastern slopes of the Andes in the province of Manu. The park is comprised of the Andean grasslands, elfin and cloud forests and lowland Amazon rain forest. More animal and bird species can be spotted here than anywhere else in the world. Bird watching is particularly excellent as the park is home to more than 1000 species of bird. The endangered Giant Otter and the majestic Jaguar are but two of the magnificent creatures that call this park home.
A Peruvian Holiday
There is so much more to this country than the few highlights mentioned here. Peru is a land of vast majestic beauty whose ancient civilisations still form its heart beat centuries later. A Peruvian holiday is the perfect combination of leisure and adventure.
About the Author
Oasis Overland Adventure Travel offers hands-on adventures to the magnificent country of Peru. Their trips give visitors a unique opportunity to experience the authentic Latin American lifestyle without the commercialisation that so often comes with package holidays.
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