With COVID now receding and international travel finally back on the menu for most of us, it’s only natural to start to think about where we’re going to be going next. But there are few vacation destinations as exotic and exciting as Peru. Just a short plane ride down south (literally), you’ll find a country that treats its tourists like royalty and boasts some of the most awe-inspiring vistas in the world.
Yes, Machu Picchu is a thing of true wonder but it’s only one reason to visit Peru. If you have a soft spot for Incan ruins but also want to experience a truly extraordinary culture, here are five reasons why Peru should be on top of your adventure vacations bucket list.
The ruins
Machu Picchu is so busy they’re limiting guests right now but that doesn’t mean it’s not one of the most mysterious and beautiful places on earth. It’s not just the iconic Incan ruins you’ll fall in love with either. Hiking the Inca Trail is an experience that also takes in the gorgeous Sacred Valley and if you want more history, there’s the ancient city of Chan Chan in the north and Lake Titicaca in the south. Best of all, you’ll be able to find a qualified tour guide for most trails.
The food
Yes, they eat guinea pigs in Peru but don’t hold it against them (it’s actually quite delicious). What you’ll find most commonly, however, is a combination of Chinese and Japanese cuisine that takes native vegetables and beef and combines it with sweet fruits and some incredibly strong spices. The combination is a cuisine unlike anything else and it’s best experienced in local restaurants. If you want to go further, however, the capital city of Lima is home to three of the top 50 restaurants in the world.
The people
The people of Peru are a truly eccentric and endearing bunch. Peruvians are proud of their Quechua culture and are hardworking, polite and helpful. They also have a very particular sense of humor and will go above and beyond to tell you stories and make you feel at home. Many of them are also exceptionally talented craftspeople. Indeed, if you come away from a Peruvian holiday without a custom piece of jewelry then we’d be surprised.
The beacheS
Peru is famous for its surfing beaches, mostly located south of Lima. These are the kind of beaches that offer perfect sand and perpetual surf with enviable temperatures.
The animals
Adorable social animals are a major part of Peruvian life. From the iconic llamas and alpacas to the gentle Peruvian camelids, you’ll find so much exotic wildlife in Peru and most of it will be more than happy to greet you.
