Attractions in Peru
Machu Picchu
Inca city of Machu Picchu, perched atop a remote mountain northwest of Cusco. This World Heritage Site and was rediscovered in 1911. This monumental archaeological site is one of the most important in South America, not to mention the most dramatically located. Be prepare for a serious hike in but it is so worth the venture.
Tambopata Candamo Reserve Zone
45km from Puerto Maldonado by river, which specialists say contains the largest and richest biodiversity of the world. The flora and fauna within includes more than 2,000 flower varieties, 1,000 birds and 900 butterflies and dragonflies.
Church of San Franciso
The church was one of the only buildings to be spared by the 1746 earthquake. Inside are a vast library, extraordinary domed roof, masterpieces by Jordeans, Rubens and Van Dyck, and catacombs complete with ghoulish circular displays of the bones of some 70,000 souls.
Lima
Five centuries of colonial history in Lima, receive an insight into the plazas and opulent mansions with their Moorish latticed wooden balconies. Plaza de Armas, is home to the impressive 18th-century cathedral and the lavish Government Palace.
City of Caral
The city is 5,000-year-old, near Lima. Caral was only discovered in 1994 and has recently opened to tourists following years of excavation.
Inca Empire, Cusco
This World Heritage Site, founded in AD1100, is a fascinating mix of Inca and colonial Spanish architecture.
Chan Chan
Is a UNESCO-protected and the largest pre-Inca mud city (20 sq km/8 sq miles) and the nearby huacas (religious centres) of the Sun and the Moon. The beautifully restored Huaca Arco Iris is covered with pre-Inca hieroglyphics.
Manu national Park
Is Peru's greatest treasure in biodiversity. Covering 20,000 sq km of tropical rainforest, this World Natural Heritage Site is home to around 1,200 butterfly species, 2,000 plant species, 200 different mammals, 800 bird types and including monkeys, tapirs, sloth, jaguar and capybaras.
Lake Titicaca
The world's highest navigable lake, and visit the unique waterborne reed islands and boats of the native Uros people. Covering 8,379 sq km. Lake Titicaca is home to 19th-century steamship surrounded by ancient ruins and, the Yavari.
