Located on the Pacific coast of South America, Peru is a country with a long, rich history, stunning architecture, vast tropical forests, dry plains and the Andes mountain range. It is a paradise for anyone looking to spend time outdoors. With miles upon miles of excellent trekking in the Andes, the Amazon, and along the coast, you could easily hike for months here.

The culture of Peru is a blend of Spanish, African, Amerindian, Asian and Incan. This blending is reflected in the cuisine of Peru. Rice is a staple throughout the country as well as other grains and starches depending on the region, in the jungle, for example, people eat a lot of yucca. Meats and fish are also popular in many meals. A popular fish dish is ceviche, raw fish with lime juice, which is refreshing on a hot and/or humid day.

The primary language in Peru is Spanish and you’ll need, at minimum, a working knowledge of key phrases and responses outside of key tourist areas. If you’re planning to stick to Machu Picchu and Cusco, you’ll find plenty of people who speak English.

With three distinct regions to explore (coastal plains, mountains, and jungle), the nature lover will find plenty of new and exciting terrain to conquer. From hiking through cloud forest in the Andes to walking on Pacific beaches, there’s also something for walkers and hikers at every skill level.

Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, offers novice and experienced trekkers the opportunity to hike to the bottom of the canyon and back on an overnight journey or to take shorter day hikes to study the rocky hillsides and do a bit of birding. While there are many species of birds in Colca, the most well known is the Andean Condor, a large vulture endemic to the Andes and surrounding regions of South America.

Peru’s cities and towns reflect all those who have passed through them and called them home. Architecture, cuisine and more mix throughout Peru to reflect Spanish and Incan traditions as well as other European and indigenous influences.

One of Peru’s most famous sites is Machu Picchu, a fifteenth century Incan ruin outside of Cusco. You can take a train to this site as a day trip or take a four-day trek along the Inca Trail, which winds through the Andes past several other Incan landmarks.

The city of Chan Chan in Peru’s Moche Valley was once the capital of the Chimu Empire. While not as internationally known as the Incas, the Chimu were a powerful influence in present-day Peru in their kingdom and beyond until they fell to the Incas. You’ll find a variety of ruins here including the Tschudi Palace.

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