Peru

Peru is well known for the world famous Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, but the small colonial towns, the friendly people and the delicious local food make it a worthy experience for any travel aficionado.

Peru is world renowned for the world famous Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, but its small colonial towns, friendly people, and delicious local cuisine make it a worthy experience for any travel aficionado.

In Perú, every type of traveler can experience the wonder of Machu Picchu. For the more adventurous, there’s the 4-day hike from Km29 near Cusco to the Lost City of the Incas. While strenuous, its one of the most spectacular and gratifying treks in the world. For the less adventurous, there’s a scenic three hour train journey from Cusco, or for those short on time, a helicopter ride to Aguas Calientes, where you can take the short trek to the ruins and return for a soothing soak in the hot thermal pools, from where the town takes its name. A trip to Machu Picchu guarantees memories that will last a lifetime — and a full phone memory card.

Cusco is not only the gateway to Machu Picchu, but also the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city. On the northern outskirts, lies Sacsayhuamán (‘the fortress of the royal falcon or hawk’), a citadel built by the Incas in the 15th Century. The craftsmanship in the construction of the massive stone walls is masterful.

Cusco is also one of the liveliest cities in South America. While many historical buildings have been preserved, the city has plenty of coffee houses, hotels, restaurants, and tourist shops. While this mix might not appeal to everyone, Cusco has found a way to balance the old with the new, and it’s rare to find a visitor that hasn’t enjoyed his time in this memorable city.