The world is a big place full of incredible food, places, and people. Many people will place travel as one of their favorite things to do and it seems that just about all of those people have their own list of “must-see” destinations. If you’re one of those people and Peru isn’t on your list then you better add it. Here are just a handful of reasons why this South American country will provide an unforgettable experience that you will never regret.
Machu Picchu
This is the big one. If you have ever considered traveling to Peru it is probably because you wanted to see Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu is an ancient civilization built atop a mountain ridge in the Cusco region of southern Peru. You may have seen some breathtaking pictures of Machu Picchu but truthfully they don’t nearly compare to experiencing the ruins in person. Take your time wandering amongst structures built in the 15th century, hike to the top of Machu Picchu (a neighboring peak that provides an incredible birds eye view of the ruins) and enjoy the sunlight atop the lush green Andes mountain range.
Cusco
Located just 50 miles from Machu Picchu, Cusco offers a blend of two fascinating cultures. Cusco served as the capital of the ancient Inca Empire and still provides a glimpse into that culture. Inti Raymi (“Festival of the Sun”) is an ancient Incan celebration honoring their sun god that is still held at the end of June each year. You will never forget the colors, music and excitement of this magnificent festival. In addition to the Incan heritage still evident in Cusco, you will quickly notice a heavy European influence in the city architecture. Cobblestone streets and large Catholic cathedrals reflect definite European influence. Many hold the opinion that Cusco is not only the most beautiful city in Peru but one of the most beautiful cities in all of South America.
Iquitos
Possibly the most overlooked attraction in Peru, Iquitos provides a remarkable experience that you will never regret and always remember. Buried deep in the Amazon jungle, Iquitos is the largest city in the world that cannot be reached by road. The city has a population of around 400,000 and is located right on the banks of the Amazon River. There are a large variety of tour services and guides available that allow you to explore river and truly experience the Amazon. These tours offer you the chance to see pink dolphins (the only place they exist in the world), feed monkeys, see giant shotgun ants (named such because their poisonous bite causes pain comparable to a shotgun wound), taste natural sugarcane and participate in tribal dances with indigenous Amazonian tribes. This exotic adventure will be unlike anything else you’ve ever experienced.
Máncora
Want a more relaxing experience? MáMancora is small beach town in Northeastern Peru that offers beautiful beeches, turquoise water and quality waves. The beauty of the small surf town attracts enough visitors to justify a number of quality resorts but is still small enough (population around 10,000) that it is yet to be over commercialized. It is the perfect place to relax and thoroughly enjoy the natural beauty of South America.
Jacob Henderson is a freelance writer for Roomstays.com. Through Roomstays.com you can find places to stay from Peru to Las Vegas. They have a wide variety of hotels such as The D Las Vegas to Del Pilar Miraflores Hotel.
