Whilst Machu Picchu is its defining image, Peru offers this and so much more. Natural wonders and rich cultures make this country one of Latin America's most rewarding - dont miss Lake Titicaca and its floating communities, lively Lima, Cuzco and the Sacred Valley, Arequipa and the condors in the Colca Canyon. There are also fascinating, and less well-known, pre-Columbian ruins in Northern Peru.
Machu Picchu
Peru is home to one of the continent's most famous highlights, the iconic Machu Picchu. The Inca citadel is an awe-inspiring sight and it's hard to imagine going on a Peru holiday and not including this 'must-see' icon. Concerned about environmental deterioration, the Peruvian government has reduced the number of entrance tickets to the citadel by 50%, so make sure you book well in advance.
Holidays in Peru - Cuzco, Lake Titicaca & the Amazon
Cuzco offers much more than its tag as the starting point for trips to Machu Picchu. A beautiful Spanish colonial city built upon Inca foundations, it is at its most colourful in late June during the annual Incan Inti Raymi Festival. Between Cuzco and Machu Picchu lies the Urubamba or Sacred Valley, with many colourful markets and Inca ruins.
Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world, and also the gateway to cross into Bolivia. Further south is the Colca Canyon. Deeper than the Grand Canyon, it is worth visiting not only for its extraordinary beauty, but also because it offers a unique opportunity to spend time watching the beautiful condor.
Peru is another country from which you can enjoy the Amazon rainforest. You can stay in jungle lodges reached from Puerto Maldonado, or set off from Iquitos on a comfortable cruise or expedition on the world’s most famous river.
One of the greatest changes in recent years to tourism in Peru has been the growth of luxurious accommodation, not only in the cities but even in the remotest areas. So if you want full-on creature comforts all the way on your Peru holiday - and that includes on an Amazon river cruise or a train journey to Machu Picchu - that can be arranged.