Peru is the land of ancient Inca architecture, wild landscapes, colourful tradition and Paddington Bear. It is a country with a history and culture so vibrant that it overwhelms your senses and leaves a stamp on your heart. It is a fascinating fusion of old and new, where you’ll be greeted with warmth and sincerity wherever you go.
Written by Laura Ferguson
The streets are filled with vibrance and the smells of a rich, unique cuisine. It is the home of the enchanting 15th century wonder of the world, Machu Picchu. From the snow-capped Andes, to the bustling streets of modern capital city, Lima, Peru has a big personality that makes it well worth a visit in 2021.
In Peru, there is something for everyone
Whether it’s the promise of adventure, the historical sites, or simply the assurance of mouthwatering meals, that draw you to Peru, there is something for everyone. Surrounded by its’ South American neighbours, Peru sits on the western side of the continent, facing the Pacific Ocean.
With a history of ancient civilisations spanning thousands of years, the nation has drawn backpackers and tourists to its magnificent ruins and magical mountainous communities. The charm of this Latin American treasure lies in its diversity and rich heritage.
So why is next year the right time to go? As has been the pattern of other nations that house famous historical wonders, Peru will, understandably, become more overrun with tourists as the secrets of this beautiful country are revealed.
Recommendations for the adventurers
What are my recommendations for those that decide Peru is a must-visit destination? For the adventurers, a trip to the breathtaking Machu Picchu is a must; be prepared for a steep climb, but this wonderful lost citadel and surrounding peaks makes it well worthwhile. For those wishing to challenge themselves, the 5-day trek through the mountains along the Inca Trail gives perhaps the most rewarding views of the ruins.
For those who would rather sit back and relax, there is also a bus service that departs from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) that takes you most of the way up the mountain. If travelling from Cusco, a bus will take you part of the way to Ollantaytambo, where you board a train to Aguas Calientes; winding through forests and valleys, this glass-roofed train is one of the highlights of the experience. Tickets need to be booked in advance and both Peru Rail and Inca Rail are highly professional and recommended companies.
Lesser known, but equally as magical, is Vinicunca (Rainbow) Mountain, where a geological phenomenon has created spectacular, colourful stripes on its surface. With an elevation of 5,200 metres, this trek is not for the faint-hearted, but well-organised tours from Cusco provide hikers with walking poles and knowledgeable guidance.
Recommendations for the foodies, art-lovers and history-enthusiasts
For those more intrigued by the cultural and historical character of Peru’s cities, or for those who like to discover the culinary delights of a country, Lima is a great starting point. Although, often described as ‘not worth a visit’ by tourists, this vibrant city has more to offer than meets the eye.
From the modern city center, to the upmarket district of Miraflores, you are never too far from an art museum, a historic building or a local restaurant serving fresh Cerviche and native Lomo Saltado. Lima is a cultural and culinary hub, with neighborhoods such as Barranco becoming increasingly popular.
For those looking to branch out to more remote cities, Cusco is a great place to start. Brimming with colour and culture, Cusco’s cobblestoned streets host religious festivals and flamboyant parades; once the Inca capital, this ancient city is an unmissable stop.
So whichever portion of Peruvian life you’d like a part of, it is undoubtedly the next place to add to your bucket list. Lonely Planet have an excellent and up to date guide book with all the information you need to plan your trip, as well as some fantastic recommendations for every corner of the country. I love the culture, the landscape and the endless list of things to do and see in Peru, but it is the people that make this country so special; you can rest assured that in Peru you will be greeted as a friend, treated as a relative and you will leave with a heavy heart.
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