Sometimes when we travel we return to destinations that are well loved and familiar because we need to rest and relax. But there are times when what we really need is to rejuvenate ourselves. To see and do something that is so different from our everyday life that it lights that spark within us to continue to take on life's challenges. A place that makes us return home recharged with new determination, ready to take on whatever life throws at us.
Peru is one of those places. A place that is filled with exciting new experiences that will leave you with a passion and hunger for life and renewed anticipation of what tomorrow will bring.
1. Hike the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is the most well-known trek in South America. Many rate it to be among the top 5 treks in the world. Who wouldn’t be mesmerized with the combination of breathtaking mountain scenery, lush cloud forest, subtropical jungle, and the must-see, Inca paving stones, ruins, and tunnels. The highlight of the trail is the exhilarating view of Machu Picchu, the enigmatic “Lost City of the Incas”. It would normally take trekkers four or five days to complete the “Classic Inca Trail” but a two-day trek from Km 104 is also doable.
2. Watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is found in the Andes Mountains in Peru. The Incan citadel was built in the 15th century, believed to be a religious site for Incan leaders. This old civilization was said to be washed out by the Spanish invaders in the 16th century. The majestic fortress spans to a spectacular 5-mile distance. Machu Picchu is a famous man-made wonder, which attracts thousands of tourists every year. Arrive early to see the marvelous sunrise, a breathtaking backdrop to the magnificent ancient stone monuments.
3. Try a Pisco Sour
Native to Peru, Pisco is a light brandy that is created by the winemakers of the nation. Pisco Sours, the delicious foamy drink infused with bitters, are loved by connoisseurs from all over the world. I guarantee once you try one, it will leave you thirsty for another.
4. View the Nazca Lines
Situated in the Peruvian coastal plain about 250-miles south of Lima Peru is a collection of enormous geoglyphs called the Nazca lines. The designs are etched into the desert sands covering an area of nearly 1,000 sq. kilometers. The giant geoglyphs were created by ancient Nazca culture in South America, presenting different plants, animals and shapes. The Nazca Lines is over 2,000 years old and the best way to appreciate this UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994 is going up into the air because of its gigantic size. Researchers, for over 80 years, have studied the Nazca lines but despite the long years of research they still find this vast ancient site to be a mystery.
5. Try Ceviche
Ceviche is seafood made from fresh raw fish. It’s prepared in a centuries-old method of cooking, curing the seafood in citrus juices such as lemon or lime instead of heat. This delicious, easy to prepare dish may either be eaten as a first course or main dish, depending on what it’s served with. In Peru, ceviche is complemented with slices of cold sweet potatoes on the side, which is the usual serving suggestion, but it can also be served with corn-on-the-cob on the side.
6. Shop for a poncho
The poncho is the typical dress of Peru. It’s been around for a very long time, even before the Incas. The word poncho was derived from the Quechua word Punchu. It’s described as a simple design coat. A rectangular piece of thick fabric with a hole in the center for the head. The cloth is dropped onto the body. Since it doesn’t need sleeves, you can move your hands freely inside the poncho. The Alpaca fiber is the best material to use to make ponchos. The alpaca fiber itself plays a significant role in Peruvian history.
A visit to Peru changes you. In a good way. When you are ready to experience something new and exciting we would love to be part of your journey.