PureTravel Says:
Peru, bordered by Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil to the east, Bolivia to the southeast, and Chile to the south, is an adventurer’s paradise. The country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage offer a unique experience for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike. Whether you’re trekking the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, exploring the Andes, or embarking on a river adventure, Peru has something for everyone.
National Parks and Conservation
Peru is home to numerous national parks and protected areas, preserving its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. These parks offer stunning landscapes and opportunities for wildlife viewing, trekking, and exploring ancient ruins.
Manu National Park
Manu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, spans the Andean highlands to the Amazon basin. It boasts an incredible variety of flora and fauna, including over 1,000 bird species, jaguars, and giant otters. Guided tours offer visitors a chance to experience this biodiversity up close.
Huascarán National Park
Huascarán National Park, located in the Cordillera Blanca range, is famous for its high-altitude trekking routes and stunning mountain scenery. It includes Peru’s highest peak, Huascarán, and offers treks like the Santa Cruz Trek and the challenging Alpamayo Circuit.
Tambopata National Reserve
Tambopata National Reserve, in the Amazon basin, protects diverse ecosystems and numerous wildlife species. Visitors can explore the rainforest, spotting macaws, monkeys, and other creatures while learning about conservation efforts.
Holiday Highlights
Walking & Trekking
The Andes Mountains make Peru a trekker’s dream. The country’s varied climates, from tropical to sub-zero, provide a diverse trekking experience. The famous Inca Trail is a must, with multiple itineraries ranging from two to twelve days. Other notable treks include:
- Santa Cruz Trek (easy-moderate; 4-5 days): This trek in Huascarán National Park offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and lush valleys.
- Cordillera Huayhuash (moderate-difficult; 3-12+ days): Known for its dramatic landscapes, this trek takes you through high mountain passes and past pristine lakes.
- Alpamayo Circuit (moderate-difficult; 10-12 days): A challenging trek that rewards hikers with views of the beautiful Alpamayo peak and surrounding glaciers.
The Inca Trail and Incan History
Peru’s history is deeply intertwined with the Inca civilization, which established the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. The Incas were known for their advanced agricultural techniques, including terracing and irrigation, which supported a vast population without the use of money. Instead, they relied on a system of shared goods and labor.
The Classic Inca Trail, a four-day trek, leads to Machu Picchu and includes notable archaeological sites like Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Runkurakay. For those seeking a longer adventure, the seven-day Mollepata to Salkantay to Machu Picchu trek offers a quieter, more rustic route.
Culture and History
Peru’s cultural diversity includes ethnic groups like Quechua and Aymara in the Andes, and various groups in the Amazon. Historical influences range from Incan to Spanish, with traditional music and arts reflecting a mix of African, Asian, and Pacific Island influences.
Rafting
Peru’s rivers offer excellent white-water rafting opportunities. Popular starting points include Cusco, with trips on the Apurimac and Urubamba Rivers. Multi-day trips with overnight camping are common, providing a thrilling adventure through scenic gorges and canyons. Other notable rafting locations include:
- Tambopata River: A seven-day journey through the Tambopata Candamo Reserved Zone, offering both adventure and wildlife viewing.
- Cotahuasi and Colca Canyons: Near Arequipa, these rivers provide technical challenges and stunning landscapes.
- Majes River: Ideal for those seeking beautiful scenery and a more relaxed rafting experience.
Wildlife
Peru is home to a diverse array of wildlife, from insects to large mammals. Explore the Amazon to see macaws, parrots, wild boars, snakes, monkeys, and jaguars. Coastal areas host species like iguanas, skunks, deer, chinchillas, condors, and hummingbirds. With over 50 protected natural areas, Peru offers endless opportunities for wildlife viewing.
When To Go
The best time for trekking and outdoor activities in Peru is between June and September, with clear skies and cool nights. Coastal regions are hotter and more humid, while higher altitudes are colder. The Andes experience less rain from April to October.
Top Tips
- Always use a specialist local tour operator for trips into the Andes or Amazon.
- Keep your permits on hand and waterproofed to avoid fines or deportation.
- Acclimate properly to avoid altitude sickness (AMS).
- Book treks well in advance to secure permits.
Holiday In Focus
Walking and Trekking
Peru offers a range of treks, from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day adventures. Altitude is a critical factor, with many treks above 4,000 meters. Ensure proper acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness.
- Classic Inca Trail (moderate; 4-5 days): This iconic trek includes uphill walks, stunning mountain landscapes, and historical sites, culminating at Machu Picchu.
- Mollepata to Machu Picchu (moderate-difficult; 7 days): A quieter alternative to the Classic Inca Trail, offering rustic and peaceful surroundings.
- Macashca Hills Day Hike: A five to seven-hour trek through the hills of Huaraz, ideal for acclimatization.
- Laguna Shallap and Laguna Churup Day Treks: Both treks offer stunning lake views and last from five to six hours.
For easier options, consider:
- Quebrada Quillcayhuanca: A flat trail through the Quebrada Quillcayhuanca Valley, perfect for families with children.
- Llaca Valley & Ranralpalca Glacier Trek: A short, two-hour trek with beautiful views, ideal for a relaxing day out.
Culture and History
Peru’s cultural complexities include marriage and land usage systems organized around family reciprocity. The country has a rich mix of ethnic groups, with influences from Incan and Spanish traditions. Traditional music, arts, and literature reflect this diverse heritage.
Rafting
In addition to the Apurimac and Urubamba Rivers, Peru offers other rafting adventures:
- Tambopata River: A seven-day journey through the Tambopata Candamo Reserved Zone, offering both adventure and wildlife viewing.
- Cotahuasi and Colca Canyons: Near Arequipa, these rivers provide technical challenges and stunning landscapes.
- Majes River: Ideal for those seeking beautiful scenery and a more relaxed rafting experience.
Wildlife and Adventure
Peru’s diverse ecosystems support a wide range of wildlife. In the Amazon, spot macaws, jaguars, and river dolphins. Coastal areas host species like iguanas, condors, and hummingbirds. Protected areas and sanctuaries ensure rich wildlife experiences.
Classic Peru Itineraries
- Huaraz:
- Santa Cruz Trek (easy-moderate; 4-5 days)
- Cordillera Huayhuash (moderate-difficult; 3-12+ days)
- Alpamayo (moderate-difficult; 10-12 days)
- Cusco:
- Classic Inca Trail (moderate; 4-5 days)
- Easy/Short Inca Trail (easy; 2 days)
- Mollepata to Machu Picchu (moderate-difficult; 7 days)
- Vilcabamba (moderate-difficult; 7 days)
Explore Peru for an adventure filled with trekking, culture, rafting, wildlife, and biking. Each region offers unique experiences, ensuring an unforgettable trip.
