The mystical land of Peru evokes a sense of mystery adventure and remoteness in the minds of the traveller. It is a land of contrasts where both modern and ancient, rich and humble, elegant and rugged reside side by side in a harmonious blend. Peru, for reasons more than one, has been a top bucket list destination for millions of travellers. This South American gem exudes as an aura of solitude, enigma and wonder.
Plan your perfect holiday to Peru with Flying Squirrel Holidays’ tailormade Peru tour packages from India!
Located on the western central coast of South America by the banks of the Pacific Ocean, Peru is the third-largest country in the continent. Owing to vast expanse, Peru is blessed with a variety of landscapes and experiences various weather conditions all year round. Nature and biodiversity aside, Peru is also the seat of the Inca civilization, one of the most ancient and progressive civilizations of the world.
While the ancient Inca city of Machu Pichu is the highlight of not just any Peru trip but is a part of all travellers’ bucket list, Peru has much more to offer. The country is packed with mighty vibrant geographical features ranging from the mountain peaks of the Andes to stunning sand dunes of Huacachina, the highest navigable lake in the world – Lake Titicaca to the deep lush Amazon rainforests.
Local cuisine is the highlight of any Peruvian trip. The food here is diverse, flavorful and extremely palatable. With influences from various cultures that lived and ruled the area in different periods of time the resulting cuisine is a burst of flavours in the mouth.
Hence it is not surprising that two of the top ten restaurants of 2018, namely Central and Maido, are in Peru’s capital city, Lima. Maido is especially popular for serving a unique Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine.
Apart from fine-dining, Peru is a true foodie destination with innumerable dining options ranging from roadside cafes to street food all serving mouth watering Peruvian cuisine.
The cities of Peru are a display of architectural wonder. Most of the Inca construction in Lima has been demolished by the Spanish conquistadores and replaced by colonial and baroque structures. Yet whatever remains is a visual treat. Cobbled stone street, iconic landmarks, ancient structures surviving the test of time and much more.
The village of Chinchero or Mundo Alpaca in Arequipa thrive on age-old woollen textile weaving and dyeing. Learn more about garments made of Alpaca and Llama wool and make sure to pick up some for friends and family back home. And if that’s not enough, join a chocolate workshop Chaqchao Chocolate Factory at Arequipa. The factory offers hands-on chocolate-making classes along with tasting session of chocolates made with incredible world-class cocoa beans.
Erstwhile capital of the Inca empire and a living testament of Peru’s rich past, culture and heritage. While Cusco is often seen as a gateway to the world-famous Machu Pichu and the Sacred Valley, Cusco is a gem by itself. Walking around Cusco is a truly enchanting experience with street flanked by centuries-old architecture, Spanish Cathedrals and churches. Get closer to Cusco’s captivating history as you climb the winding cobbled stones streets, relax in the numerous city gardens or town squares. You may have to adjust your speed to the changing altitude.
Located on the banks of the sapphire waters of the Pacific Ocean, the capital city of Lima is home to almost one-third of Peru’s total population. The sprawling metropolis displays fascinating architecture, vibrant lifestyle and brightly painted facades bursting with colours.
At the heart of this busy city lies Huaca Pucllana, a pyramid-shaped temple built as a place of sacrifice and ceremony. The structure built sometime between 200AD and 7AD is a fine display of architectural finesse. Lima is also home to the historical Plaza de Armas or Plaza Mayor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a starting point of all Ima tours. The most striking part of Plaza Mayor is a bronze fountain built in 1651. The fountain survived a devastating earthquake that destroyed most of the plaza in 1746.
Founded by the Spanish in 1591, the city of Nazca lies in the southern coast of Peru. This simple quaint Peruvian village is the gateway to the renowned Naza Lines. Back in the day, the region was known for fine wine and pisco.
A small Andean-Indian village located at about 30 km from Cusco is known for mud-brick houses, a spectacular Sunday market and breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The textile showcasing various Peruvian weaves at Chinchero is a must-visit. The area is known for a unique dyeing and weaving technique used to make cashmere with alpacas and llamas wools. It is also regarded as the mythical birthplace of the rainbow god.
Arequipa, also known as the “White City” is the second-largest city in Peru. Surrounded by three volcanoes namely Pichupichu, Chachani and Mist, the city abounds in building constructed with white volcanic rocks called ‘sillar.’ The best way to explore the city is by walking. The city offers a plethora of fascinating attractions from beautiful plazas surrounded by colonial structures to the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa, Alpaca Museum to some breathtaking views of the three volcanoes.
Arequipa is also the gateway town to gigantic Colca canyon. Day trips from Arequipa to Colca is a popular tourist attraction of the city. Finally, make sure to save some time for San Camilo market to spend some time amongst the locals and feel the vibrance. The market drips with colourful artifacts, fresh produce, unique spices and alpaca wool clothing.
According to popular legends, Puno, also called the ‘folkloric capital’ is where civilization began in Peru when Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo arose from the waters of Lake Titicaca and founded the Inca dynasty. Home to the majestic Lake Titicaca, Puno is the gateway to Peru’s famous floating islands known as Uros. The region is made up of about 62 artificial islands with each island inhabited by small communities of six families at the most. The Uru people take immense pride in their culture and maintain a traditional lifestyle.
The coastal town of Pisco is overshadowed by the huge variety of attractions Peru has on offer but if time permits, Pisco is surely worth a visit. Pisco is a treasure trove of delightful marine creatures, ancient relics and rocky islands. Take boat tours into the nearby Islas Ballestas for a closer look at penguins, seals, blue-footed booby.
Visit the Paracas National Reserve for some spectacular archaeological sites and the mysterious El Candelabro, a giant rock formation whose origin is a mystery to this day. While in the city don’t forget to sample Peru’s national drink Pisco along with the seafood delicacy ceviche.
Explore the depths of Amazon Forest and the Andes by hiking and boating.
Explore the historical wonders of Machu Picchu and Huaca Pucllana.
You can try out riding ATV in the Paracas National Park.
Try out surfing at one of the beautiful beaches of Peru.
Indulge yourself in a number of water activities as well as adventure activities like kayaking, hiking, and mountain biking,etc.
Hike all the the way up to Machu Picchu.
Much has been written and said about Machu Pichu yet nothing really matches up to the real experience of this enchanting site. The mysterious lost city of the Incas was discovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham and has been a top attraction among archaeologists, historians and tourists since then. Perched up a ridge at 300 meters above the Urubamba River Machu Pichu is a living example of history and architecture at its best. The ruined city of Machu Pichu is set amidst steep hills, lush green forests and cloud-covered mountains thereby lending it a superbly dramatic setting.
Situated at 3,820 meters above sea level, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. The lake houses several floating islands such as the Uros Floating Islands. The best way to visit the islands and enjoy the beautiful scenery surrounding the lake is by boat. Uros Island is especially fascinating for its inhabitants, the Uros Indians and the traditional way of life followed by them.
Located in the outskirts of the city of Arequipa, Colca Canyon is a gigantic structure that is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. This awe-inspiring natural wonder is lined numerous hiking trails, hot springs, churches, villages and striking Inca ruins. The canyon has been the home for several indigenous people including the Collagua, Cabana and finally the Inca people for more than a thousand years.
The mystery of these giant sketches is yet to be solved. For several years these structures were undiscovered and their vast expanse unknown. The real picture of the Nazca Lines was gathered only after the 1920s when visuals from planes flying above determined their magnitude. The Nazca lines are gigantic images drawn on the desert floor that can be viewed only from a height. These drawings include images of a lizard, a condor, a wingspan and many more. According to different theories, the Nazca Lines were created between 900 BC and 600 AD, though the truth of the creator and the reason why they were created are still not known.
Situated within a short driving distance from Cusco is the legendary Urubamba Valley also known as the Sacred Valley that is still living up to the ancient Inca traditions. Comprising of three picturesque villages Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo, the Sacred Valley is peaceful and serene. The Sunday Market at Urubamba is worth a visit for the lively and colourful exchange of livestock, food and other goods.
Located near Cusco is the gateway town of Puerto Maldonado, a starting point for all Amazon tours. The deep enchanting Amazon rainforests is the home to numerous rare birds, insects and animals like monkeys, capybara, caimans and piranhas. The best way to explore the rainforests is by boat tours. You may try hiking in the various trails for a closer look at the flora and wildlife.
Huacachina village located in southwest Ica is a palm-fringed oasis town surrounded by massive sand dunes rising to almost 1000 meters. The location is especially popular amongst outdoor sports enthusiasts looking for some thrilling sandboarding experiences. A sport like snowboarding but on sand can be done on sand boards specially made for the sport. For those looking for a more relaxed experience dune buggies are available on rent to move around and enjoy great landscapes.
Located in the Andes in the Cusco region the Rainbow Mountains also called Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores (Mountain of Seven Colors) is known for a burst of colours that make up the mountain walls. The six-mile hike to the summit of the Rainbow Mountains is popular amongst hikers as they find it both challenging and rewarding.
Note: This is just a SAMPLE Itinerary. Our Peru tour package can be customized according to your needs and preferences.
Day 1
Arrive at Lima and take some time to acclimatise with the local climate and altitude. Spend the day exploring Lima's charming hillside district, Barranco, relax on the park benches or eat and shop at the local cafes and shops. From there head to Miraflores and enjoy modern glass and steel construction placed right beside the ancient colonial structure. Miraflores is filled with restaurants serving sumptuous Peruvian cuisine. Feel free to stop by and get a taste of the same. Post lunch head to Plaza de Armas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by fascinating Spanish architecture like the Archbishop's Palace, Palacio del Gobierno and a cathedral. Walk down Jiron de la Union, a pedestrian street lined by cafes, shops and the historic Iglesia de la Merced.Day 2
Arrive at Puno on Lake Titicaca. After a quick snack take a boat tour to Uros Floating Islands. Take a guided tour into the homes of the Uros people to catch a glimpse of their livelihood. The floating islands of Lake Titicaca is a bird waters paradise. One would easily spot numerous rare birds and other aquatic creatures.Day 3
Wake up early to view the mesmerizing sunrise of Lake Titicaca amidst the Andes. After a light breakfast hop onto the ferry to return to the mainland. Take a flight to Cusco. Spend the evening relaxing at Cusco, stop by at the local markets and dine at any of the city's famed restaurants.Day 4
Wake up early to embark on the most sought-after destination not just in Peru but in the world- the ancient city of Machu Pichu. Remember to carry comfortable and sturdy footwear as the land is rugged and can get slippery after rains. Also, remember to carry warm clothes. If not, pick up an alpaca wool sweater from any of the wayside sellers.Day 5
Spend this day at your own pace exploring the historic city of Cusco. Visit Coricancha or The Temple of the Sun, walk around the town's central town square, enjoy with the locals at the vibrant Mercado del San Pedro and dine at a local Peruvian restaurant.Day 6
Next morning, begin your trip to Sacred Valley by car. Soak up in the Inca ruins, explore the local market and experience regional lifestyle of Pisac, Urubamba, and OllantaytamboDay 7
Fly to Arequipa and drive to Colca Canyon. Spend the afternoon hiking through the massive canyon that has been the home to indigenous people for thousands of years.Day 8
Spend the morning strolling through Arequipa's city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Remember to take lots of pictures of the "White City's" made of white volcanic rocks called sillar. Take a flight to Nazca.Day 9
On day 9 wake up early and get aboard a small plane for an ariel view experience of these gigantic patterns and figures etched on the desert floors cover hundreds of square mile areas. If not climb a nearby observation deck and enjoy the view from a strategic point. Take an evening flight or bus to Lima.Day 10
On your last day relax at Lima, the commercial hub of Peru. Visit Convento de San Francisco and relax at Parque del Amor and catch a glimpse of spectacular light and sound display at Fuente Mágica in the Park of the Reserve.Please email me a copy of the sample itinerary
Cost of a trip depends on places you plan to visit, the duration of the stay, the class of travel and accommodation and the inclusions you seek. We have years of experience in conducting the American tours. Let us at Flying Squirrel Holidays get the best deal for you.
What is Peru most famous for?
Apart from Machu Picchu and Incan trail, Peru is also famous for Ayahuasca ceremonies and Shamans in Amazon.
What else is there to do in Peru?
Exploring the prominent cities and indulging in hiking and trekking are some of the activities that you can enjoy in Peru.
What is the most popular food in Peru?
You can try the dishes like Peruvian Primer, Aji de Gallina, Papas a la Huancaina, Cuy, Causa, and Ceviche.
Peru as a country never fails to amaze. With more than 5000 archaeological sites, vast expanses of natural beauty and biodiversity Peru has attracted tourists from all over the globe year after year. History and culture aside, Peru is a paradise for adventure sport lovers, foodies and photographers. Hence, pack your bags and get set to dive deep into this enchanting land with Flying Squirrel Holidays' custom-made tour packages.
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