Unparalleled Peru

[Photo at top: Machupicchu, Cusco © Renzo Tasso / Promperú]

Peru is globally renowned for its ancient ruins, with the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu – meaning “ancient mountain” in Quechua, one of Peru’s many Indigenous languages – leading the charge. While it’s easy to build an entire trip around the country’s archaeological wonders, from the Amazonian fortress of Kuélap to the sprawling adobe city of Chan Chan, Peru is much more than its rich, enigmatic past. And now, with direct daily flights from major US hubs to the vibrant Peruvian capital, Lima, there’s no better time to uncover the country’s many marvels, both old and new.

For nature lovers, Peru offers a staggering diversity of ecosystems, spanning the lush Amazon rainforest to the towering Andes, the high-altitude Páramo grasslands and the tropical dry forests of the northern coast. Within its borders are 90 distinct microclimates, 25,000 plant species (including 3,500 varieties of orchids!), and nearly 1,000 endemic animal species. Look out for the majestic Andean condor, one of the largest flying birds in the world, as it soars above rugged cliffs and open skies.

The varied wildlife is just one reason to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails. For a more ambitious expedition, the Salkantay Trek offers a five- to seven-day journey across the breathtaking landscapes of Salkantay Mountain and the glacial waters of Lago Humantay, ending at Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu. Alternatively, consider the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit, often hailed as one of the world’s most spectacular treks, with its dramatic peaks and pristine valleys. If you’re looking for something shorter but equally rewarding, Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) offers a few hours of hiking through surreal landscapes of multicoloured sedimentary rock – a uniquely photogenic backdrop.

[Photo at left: Birdwatching, Loreto © Daniela del Carpio / Promperú. At right: Community Tourism, Cusco © Daniela del Carpio / Promperú]

Of course, no visit to Peru would be complete without indulging in its world-famous cuisine. Ceviche, the country’s hallmark dish, features fresh fish marinated in zesty lime juice for up to 12 hours. In Lima, you’ll find ceviche at every turn, from lunchtime cebicherías and neighbourhood haunts to high-end restaurants. For a standout experience, head to Mayta Restaurante, where chef Jaime Pesaque elevates ceviche with ingredients like Amazonian ginger, charapita pepper and caramelised sweet plantains, creating a version that’s as bold as it is delicious.

For the ultimate exploration of Peru’s wonders, consider a journey aboard the Andean Explorer, South America’s first luxury train. Its 12-day itinerary takes you through some of the country’s most unforgettable destinations, including Lake Titicaca, the Sacred Valley and the historic cities of Arequipa and Cusco – the latter being the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, where travellers will overnight at the resplendent Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel.

[Photo at left: Cusco historic centre © Rafael Iparraguirre / Promperú; At right: Cooking class in Lima © Daniela del Carpio / Promperú]