Peru: Much More than Machu Picchu

Posted on 26/09/2018 by Whitestar Travel

Machu Picchu has put Peru on many a bucket list, but there is far more to the South American country than the incredible ruins.

Peru’s tourism body recently launched the “Peru, the richest country in the world” marketing campaign, which explains that being rich isn’t about having the most, it’s about experiencing the most unforgettable moments. And Peru is truly unforgettable. A place where the diversity and culture, nature and cuisine bring the true joys of life to the fore.

Gifted with jaw-dropping natural beauty, Peru’s national parks, like the World Heritage listed Huscarán National Park, host an immense variety of flora and fauna, glaciers, extraordinary lagoons and some of the highest snow-capped mountains in the world. Manu National Park is home to one of the greatest concentrations of life on the planet, with record numbers of birds, mammals and plants.

Then there is, of course, Peru’s amazing human history. From the oldest civilisation in America, to the largest and most powerful empire of the southern continent, Ancient Peru conserves the architectural and artistic vestiges of fascinating cultures. Discovering them is a breathtaking experience.

Considered one of the seven New Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is the obvious go to. Built high on a mountain, Machu Picchu is an Inca city with temples, palaces, paths and water channels, and stands as an incredible testament to the ingenuity of the ancient people.

The Nazca lines and geoglyphs have appeared in many a conspiracy theory. You’ll need to board a small plane to see them properly, but these mysterious figures drawn between 550 and 650 AD by the Nazca settlers in a desert area of around 350 km2, will have you wondering if there really is something more to it.

Peru is just as appealing for its contemporary culture as it is for its abundant past. The cuisine is to die for, with ceviche garnished with fiery chili and corn topping the list. Food markets abound and street food, such as grilled anticuchos (beef skewers), will have you salivating as you roam the towns.

Then there are the festivals. Peru’s culture peaks in the swirling colours of its festivals. Visit Lake Titicaca at the right time of year and you’ll find yourself deeply immersed in one.

Stay at JW Marriott in Cusco.

Fly to Lima, from Melbourne or Sydney, for $1,999*.

For more information, call 03 9042 3321 or email info@whitestartravel.com.au

* Subject to dates and availability