Peru

Types of trips: Historical, Adventure, Geographical, Exploration, Cuisine

Best known for: Machu Picchu, Cuzco, Ancient Ruins, Mixed Cuisine

Why Go?: Famous for the ancient ruins perched atop nestled in the Andes, Peru is a destination to experience the past while simultaneously enjoying the present culture of this vibrant country; with sights to amaze your eyes and food to captivate your mouth, this is a part of South America not to be missed!

Fact File

Population: 31,000,000

Capital: Lima

Language(s): Spanish, Quechua, Aymara

Ties to the UK?: Good relationship, popular travel destination

Landscape: A flat western coastline and a wide eastern rainforest area separated by a highlands area that contains part of the Andes mountain range. 

Climate/Seasons: Peru has a reasonably varied climate due to the diverse landscape - the coastal region has generally quite moderate temperatures with high humidity, the areas at higher altitudes are the wettest and coolest parts and the rainforest has frequent rainfall and high temperatures. 

When to Go: Generally, the best time to visit is June - August when the highlands and rainforest are driest, but this is also the busiest period. September - November will be less crowded and cheaper, but will have a bit more rainfall. 

Reasons to Visit: Historical Experiences, Culture, Geographical education

How to Get There: Air travel is the best way of getting to Peru from the UK - there are a good number of international airports in the country that you can fly to. 

Places to Go: Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Casa-Hacienda San Jose, 

Famous People: Ollanta Humala, Henry Ian Cusick, Nathalie Kelley, Mario Testino

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Reserva Nacional de Paracas, Nazca Lines, Parque Nacional Manu

History: Was under Spanish control for a period between the 16th and 19th Century before gaining independence

Architecture: Qurikancha, Chan Chan, Monasterio de Santa Catalina, Qoorikancha

Culture: Native American and Spanish roots with some other European, Asian and African influences - generally quite mixed

Sport: Football, Taekwondo, Rugby, Surfing

Events: Peruvian Independence Day, Festival of San Juan, Festival Carnavalesco

Watch Out For: The road quality in Peru is fairly poor, so if you are driving yourself around make sure to research good routes and never drive in poor conditions. 

Medical Issues: Some vaccinations and boosters are advised for a trip to Peru - see here for a general overview and always consult with a doctor.