5 Reasons Why You Should Pack Your Bags and Travel to Peru Right Now
Peru is a vast country whose history spans to the time before the Inca and the Spanish. Within its borders are ancient ruins to discover, decades of art to admire, historic cities to explore, mountains to climb, and beaches where surfing is king. Keep reading for a glimpse into five of the places that you can visit on an adventurous trek through the country.
One of Happy Gringo Travel signature trips to Peru takes you to the city of Cusco, the capital of the Tawantinsuyu Inca Empire and one of the seats of power during the Spanish occupation.
Today the city is a myriad of styles-within its borders are Incan ruins, lavish Spanish churches, and modern conveyances for travelers including international restaurants, tour agencies, and hotels that spare no expense for those on the go.
Cusco is a jumping off point for Machu Picchu-trains leave daily to Peru’s lost city. The trip takes you high into the mountains, past remote villages and into the heart of the Incan Empire.
2) The Cordillera Blanca
Located in Northern Peru and boasting the highest mountain range in the world, the Cordillera Blanca region gives new meaning to mountaineering. The towering peaks, lakes, and glaciers draw outdoor adventurers from around the world-taking on burly treks above the clouds before heading onward.
3) Lake Titicaca
One of Peru trips that Happy Gringo Travel is proud to offer explores the Lakes, Indians, and Ruins of the country. It includes the same destinations as the Cusco and Machu Picchu trek but adds Lake Titicaca, the largest navigable lake in the world. Folklore says that the lake was the birthplace of the first Inca king, Manco Capac, and locals call it the “Birthplace of the Inca.” When visiting this site you will visit the floating Uros islands, and Amantani Island-where exploring ancient ruins takes up the afternoon.
4) Mancora
Mancora Beach is one of the best places to relax, surf, and take in the sunny skies on the coast. We can arrange custom-made tours to this sleepy hamlet during Peru trips-a- a great way to unwind after taking in some of the other hotspots in the country. It’s the place to kitesurf and has a long history as a get-a-away spot for people from around the country. Ernest Hemingway visited the area while traveling, and folklore says that he found inspiration for “The Old Man and the Sea,” along the sandy shores while deep-sea fishing.
5) Lima
Our “Magic of Peru,” tour starts off in Lima, a city rich in culture, modern conveniences, and a healthy dose of international restaurants and shops. It’s a far cry from the quaint villages and towns found elsewhere in the country-the population and size are spectacles that can catch you off guard. We arrange transport, book hotels, and guides are waiting at the airport to defuse the initial shock.
Francisco Pizarro is credited with turning the town into a haven for the Spanish Empire, calling it the “City of Kings” after founding it in 1535. Our tour combines visits to historic cathedrals, museums, and modern neighborhoods that give you a glimpse into a day in the life of the people of Peru.
