Best In Travel Magazine Issue 107 // 2021 // Discover Peru

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MACHUPICCHU, CUSCO ©ANNA GORIN /GETTY IMAGES

DISCOVER | EXPLORE | VISIT PERU

DISCOVER

PERU

SPOTLIGHT ON

Introducing Best In Travel’s guide to planning the perfect holiday in Pe Which destination are at the top of your bucket list? We’re willing to bet Peru – home to the extraordinary Inca ruins high in the Andes at Machu Picchu, Chan Chan (aka the largest preColumbian ruins in all the Americas) and the Nazca desert – is up there.

Of course a trip to a special place such as Peru needs careful planning. After all, there’s a good chance you will get there only once in your lifetime and you will want to make sure you get the best possible experience.

So what you need is the best possible advice: insights and guidance from an expert who knows the destination inside out, who can pick the best places to stay and to eat – one that suits you, not the travel company. Someone who can advise you on the best time of year to go.

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That’s why Best in Travel has published a Peru issue, planned by our expert writers, to give you all the information you need to go ahead…

Publisher Kevin Rolfe

Special Features Editor Kaye Holland

Editor Siddharth Thaker

Production team Rasha Akar Nadeem George Denis Halilaj Tracy Rolfe

Designers Mike Gibas Mark Askam Editorial Team Ana Strack Christopher O’Toole Rebecca Cohen Phil Blizzard Photography Mark Hakansson Ben Roberts Anjjelo San Buenaventura Business Development Chris Frost Sion Rapson Gina Reynolds Mike Sawicki

Content management Marfee Ybañez Laarni Mendoza Suguitan Heizel Amora Juvilyn Camello Virendra Singh Bhanu Roel Christian Yambao Ai Ling Foong Trishia Delas Alas Kaycee Melon Jel Varca Athena Davadilla Online George Cooke

Best In Travel is published by World Media and Events Ltd 2nd Floor, Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square, London W1J 6BD, United Kingdom T: +44 (0) 207 887 1410 E: advertising@bestintravelmagazine.com www.bestintravelmagazine.com The use of our Website and Digital Magazine are all subject to the following: All rights reserved. No part of www.bestintravelmagazine.com may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from world luxury daily. Whilst every effort has been made to check the information contained in this issue of world luxury daily magazine, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of world luxury daily publishing. Unless otherwise stated, the copyright of the individual contribution is that of the contributors.

Every effort has been made to trace the copyright holders of images. We apologise in advance for any unintentional omissions and would be pleased to insert the appropriate acknowledgment in any subsequent publication.

© 2021 Best In Travel Magazine

BEST IN TRAVEL

SAFE TRAVELS PERU RECEIVED THE SAFE TRAVELS SEAL, AWARDED BY THE WORLD TRAVEL AND TOURISM COUNCIL, WHICH RECOGNIZES TOURIST DESTINATIONS IN TERMS OF SAFETY AND HYGIENE IN THE FACE OF COVID-19.

The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) created in 2020 the Safe Travel's seal with the aim of contributing to the responsible and safe reopening of tourism, once the local authorities determine that the conditions exist for it.

With this objective in mind, it developed a set of health protocols designed under the guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The actions and the protocols mark the elementary measures to avoid the spread of Covid-19, such as the use of masks and face shields, social distancing and frequent hand hygiene, in addition to other measures to take into account before, during, and after visiting the tourist destinations.

www.peru.travel/en | www.wttc.org

These protocols have an impact on safeguarding the health of travelers and tourism service providers, and are applied in the accommodation industry, aviation, air, land and water terminals, cruise operators, travel agencies, national and international transport and tour operators, among others.

This seal also has the backing of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and more than 200 executives from the main business groups in the tourism sector around the world.

At the Safe Travel's seal delivery ceremony, held in Machu Picchu, the tourist jewel of Peru and one of the seven new wonders of the world, the president of WTTC, Gloria Guevara Manzo, highlighted that Peru It is considered a great travel destination internationally and specified that the seal's main objective is to regain the trust of visitors.

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To date, Peru has several destinations that have obtained the Safe Travels seal: Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Cusco city, Alto Mayo, Tarapoto, Miraflores, Ayacucho, Piura beaches (Cabo Blanco, Los Órganos, Vichayito, Punta Veleros, Las Pocitas, El Amor y Máncora), San Martin (Tarapoto, Moyobamba, Altomayo, beginning of river Tioyacu and Santa Elena reserve), Loreto (Iquitos – Río Amazonas – Reserva Nacional Pacaya Samiria), Huánuco (Huánuco Campiñas, La Unión and Cordillera Huayhuash), Kuélap, Gocta and Chachapoyas Huancas (Amazonas), La Libertad (Cascas, Puerto Morín, Malabrigo, Magdalena de Cao, Huanchaco, Pacasmayo, Moche and Trujillo), Arequipa city, the Colca valley and the Tumbes beaches circuit (Los Manglares de Tumbes national sanctuary, Manglares de Puerto Pizarro, Playas de Tumbes, City Tour

“Ciudad de Tumbes”, the archaeological circuit Cabeza de Vaca, Zorritos, Punta Sal), Cajamarca, Selva Central, Oxapampa, Trujillo, Ica, Caral, Nasca, Paracas and Caral.

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POST COVID 19 PROTOCOLS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

WE ARE READY T WELCOME YOU B

FOLLOW THESE PROTOCOLS TO ENJOY A SAFE TRIP ON YOUR NEXT VISIT

Plan your trip to Peru

• Disinfect your footwear and use the antibacterial gel available.

• Check the peru.travel website or contact IPERÚ on WhatsApp to find out if there are any steps to be taken before traveling.

• You must go through the automatic thermal imaging camera to measure your temperature.

• Complete the health declaration form at the following link.

• We recommend downloading the immigration 'PreRegistration' app on your Android or iOS device before your trip, to optimize zero-contact immigration control. For any questions about the application, please contact the WhatsApp number +51 980 122 820 or call +51 (01) 200 1000.

• You must take a PCR or antigen test no more than 72 hours before you travel.

• Children under 12 years of age are only required to present a medical certificate of good health.

• Non-resident foreign nationals coming from or having a stopover (the last 14 calendar days) in Brazil, India or South Africa will not be allowed to enter the country (the rule is in force until further notice). Exceptions apply, as determined by the Government.

During your trip to Peru When traveling, wear a disposable surgical mask. The use of this protective equipment is mandatory.

Welcome to Peru

• Collect and disinfect your luggage while keeping a safe social distance.

• You must present the health declaration form and the RT-PCR or antigen test result in PDF or image format.

• Peruvians or foreign residents arriving from Brazil, South Africa and India must undergo quarantine at their place of residence, accommodation or other temporary isolation center for a period of fourteen (14) calendar days from the date of their entry into the country.

During your stay • Enjoy your visit, wearing a face mask during your trips.

• In some establishments (shopping malls, galleries, business conglomerates, department stores, stores providing essential goods, supermarkets, markets, grocery stores and pharmacies) double masking is mandatory (one of the masks can be made of cloth) and the Peruvian government recommends the additional use of a face shield.

• Willingly comply with biosafety and disinfection protocols. If you experience any symptoms, the control staff will ask you for your data and refer you to health employees.

• Protected natural areas and museums have their own biosafety protocols for entry.

• Respect the rules of social distancing (2 meters) from the moment you board and during each process at the airport.

• Respect the curfew (in Lima, from Monday to Sunday, 9:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. the following day. On Sundays, the use of private vehicles is prohibited).

• Wear your face mask at all times.

• Curfew times vary in each region, depending on its level of alert. To check the level of alert for your location, please visit the following link (measures in effect until further notice).

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Recommendations for travellers Traveling through Peru can be a wonderful experience, full of amazing landscapes, culture, nature and an incomparable gastronomy. If you travel to Peru during the COVID-19 pandemic, take into account the following information and recommendations: • The vaccination process started in February 2021 in all regions of Peru.

• Peru was awarded with the label WTTC “Safe Travels” granted by the World Travel & Tourism Council, which recognizes the tourist destinations for safety and hygiene against the COVID-19.

• The use of masks is mandatory in public places.

Leaving the country

• At airports and some hospitals, the use of face shields, in addition to masks, is mandatory. Furthermore, their use is recommended in closed places, such as banks, restaurants, stores.

• We recommend downloading the immigration 'Pre-Registration' app on your Android or iOS device before your trip, to optimize zerocontact immigration control. For any questions about the application, please contact the WhatsApp number +51 980 122 820 or call +51 (01) 200 1000.

• Many hotels have facilities to perform the PCR and antigen tests for the return to their countries, advising and coordinating appointments in laboratories, clinics and the hotel facilities.

• Keep a safe social distance at the airport. You must wear your face mask at all times.

• You should not have symptoms of COVID-19. If you do, you will not be able to travel.

• Make sure that museums, archaeological sites, galleries, parks and nature reserves you want to visit are open, have available spaces and schedule your visit in advance.

• Security protocols change regularly. Check with your tour operator, agency or by WhatsApp to the IPerú information office by texting (+51) 944 492 314 for information about the curfew hours and restrictions.

• Visit Peru.Travel to check the latest government press releases regarding the measures against COVID-19.

• Updated information for tour operators is also available at PeruAgent.com

• You must not be in a period of isolation.

• Keep your embassy, consulate and travel alert contacts handy in case of any emergency.

• You must comply with the requirements of the destination country.

• Keep your distance at all times, keep your hands clean and sanitize your travel gear regularly.

• Collaborate with tourism professionals, guides, drivers, hotel staff and follow their indications regarding safety protocols in the places you will visit.

• Restaurants will be open with a limited capacity. Book your table in advance or ask your favorite restaurant for delivery or takeout at the hotel.

• There are many options for outdoor activities in Peru: surfing, kayaking, hiking, trekking, mountain biking, birdwatching, sailing and much more. Check with your tour operator or Peru.Travel for the perfect destination and activity for you.

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BEST IN TRAVEL

FIVE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING PERU

CUY © ANTONIO INCHÁUSTEGUI/PROMPERÚ

PERU

Awaken your senses to Peruvian flavours Cuy asado (roasted guinea pigs) is one of the country’s most famous dishes that reportedly dates back to Inca times and is said to be high in protein and low in cholesterol.

Cuy are typically skewered with a thick rod before being rotated over a fire during roasting, and taste like gamey chicken.

However the curious rodent isn’t just for dinner in Peru.

Cuy are used to warm the house and keep rats away, in addition to being used for medicinal purposes. Folk doctors called curanderos will rub guinea pig over a patient’s sick body, with the furry creature set to squeak when it passes over an afflicted area.

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COLCA CANYON, AREQUIPA©ISTOCK

FIVE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFO

Don’t be snap happy Always ask permission before taking a picture of a Peruvian – this is especially important if children are involved. We have no right to take photos of people without first asking their consent.

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ORE VISITING PERU Coca leaves can help cure altitude sickness Head spinning? Having trouble sleeping? Or perhaps the hotel stairs are making you breathless? If you answered yes to any of the aforementioned questions, chances are you’re suffering from altitude sickness which isn’t surprising given that most visitors spend a substantial amount of time in Cusco, the cosmopolitan Inca capital that has an elevation of about 11,152 feet.

(Altitude sickness generally starts affecting people at 8,000 feet).

Symptoms typically dissipate within a day or two but you can help minimise them by avoiding alcohol and caffeine and drinking plenty of water and tea de coca (coca leaf tea). After a couple of sips pf the latter, you’ll notice that the throbbing in your head has begun to subside and you can breathe again.

Just don’t even think about bringing a stash of coca – the plant that is used in the manufacture of cocaine – leaves back to the UK, where they are banned.

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LIMA © CHRISTIAN VINCES/PROMPERÚ

FIVE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFO

Lima is more than a layover Most travellers tend to check out Cuzco and Arequipa and, if not overlook Lima, then at least minimise the time spent in this bustling metropolis. Big mistake.

Peru’s capital is the second driest in the world, rising above a long coastline of crumbling cliffs. Lima also boasts one of the most fabulous sunsets in the world (the city faces due west across the Pacific, so the setting sun can flood into the beaches), world-class cuisine and museums that are the envy of Latin America (here’s looking at the spectacular Museo Larco, with its galleries of gold and silver Chimú jewellery lighting up as the visitor approaches).

Factor in buzzing barrios like Barranco, a charming area of artists and restaurants leading down to the sea, and hip hotels – take a bow Belmond Miraflores Park – and you have a city worth stopping in rather than just using as a transit hub.

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ORE VISITING PERU There are many ways to visit Machu Picchu You don’t have to hike the Inca Trail, a genuinely challenging physical experience, in order to visit Machu Picchu for there are other ways to see the famous ruins.

However if you are intent on hiking to Machu Picchu via the scenic Inca Trail, as its ancient ancestors once did, forget about it in February (when the trail is closed) and think carefully about it between June and August (the busiest months).

If you have an aversion to strenuous exercise or are tight on time, take train up to Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo), and visit for the day from there.

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AWAKEN TO NEW ADVENTURES IN PERU Peru is a country that offers enriching experiences; the ones that you will forever keep in your mind and in your heart. With more than 10,000 years of history, Peru is a country blessed by nature, with exceptional landscapes and dreamlike locations. A unique gastronomy that conquers the world with its savory flavors that will not only amaze your taste buds, but will also feed your soul. A country that possesses imposing archaeological complexes, 12 Unesco world heritage sites and has vast natural

reserves. It is undoubtedly one of the most diverse countries in the world.

Peru is a highly diverse country. It has 11 ecoregions and 84 of the 117 life zones that exist in the world. It has an enormous range of landscapes due to its geographical conditions, which in turn give it a great diversity of natural resources. Three main regions at different altitudes can be identified in its territory: Coast, Mountains and Jungle.

PARAGLIDING MIRAFLORES © CHRISTIAN VINCES/PROMPERÚ

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MACHU PICCHU © GETTY IMAGES

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RURAL, COMMUNITY AND ECOTOURISM IN PERU Peru is rich in history, tradition and cultural diversity and the popularity of rural, community and ecotourism in the country has risen over the years due to visitors wanting unique experiences to connect with the local people. These responsible tourism practices allow the local communities to further benefit from international tourism in a sustainable way.

Communities play a decisive role in developing these tourism initiatives that aim to preserve

their culture and provide them with another source of income, whilst educating tourists and serving as a conservation tool for history and the environment.

Agro-tourism and home-stays are managed by local inhabitants and allow visitors to gain firsthand experiences of the local culture.

PHOTOGRAPH © VIRGILIO MARTÍNEZ- DANIEL SILVA

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CUSCO Cusco is a haven for visitors due to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, and in addition to its archaeological and cultural attractions, visitors can join community tourism projects to learn about life in the southern Andes. Tourists can spend time with families learning about ancient agricultural practices, ceremonies and the valuable handicrafts and textiles. One of the most interesting projects of cultural community tourism in Peru is located halfway between Cusco and Puno, in the town of Raqchi close to the city of Sicuani. When spending time there, visitors will discover ancient traditions such as pottery, music, dance, gastronomy and clothing. The magnificent Inca temple dedicated to Wiracocha is also part of the community, which is composed of eighty

families who work in agriculture, handicrafts and most recently, in community tourism.

The villagers own small sections of land in which they cultivate potatoes, corn, oca, tarwi, quinoa, ullucus and wheat for self-consumption and they have now opened up to community tourism by offering homestays and making a positive economic impact. In Raqchi, visitors also have the opportunity to participate in offerings to the land practised by the villagers, as one of their cultural and religious rituals. These ceremonies take place on the “usno” (ceremonial mound), and are dedicated to the “Pachamama” (Mother Earth).

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LAKE TITICACA – TAQUILE ISLAND of Humanity’ to the Taquile traditional textiles, making their craft even more sought-after. For the people of Taquile Island, tourism has given them a privileged opportunity to improve their economic situation. Most tourists stay within the community for a couple of days in family hosted accommodations, while exploring the island and learning the local way of life.

TAQUILE ISLAND PUNO©LUIS FRANCISCO GONZALES /PROMPERÚ

Taquile is one of the many islands on the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca and until the 1970s it was a community closed to contact with the exterior world. Little-by-little the community started opening up to tourists, attracted by the idea of spending time with the inhabitants and learning about their traditional culture and their famous textiles. In 2005, UNESCO awarded the title of ‘Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage

NORTHERN COAST A splendid world of pre-Incan cultures, towns, deserts, valleys, dry forests, beaches, ports, archaeological and historical sites is found in the lesser known northern coast of Peru. Rural and experienced-based tourism is already present allowing visitors to gain an insight into the traditional life of the local people. An example of a project benefiting from eco and community based tourism is the protection of the Manglares de Tumbes National Sanctuary. This valuable ecosystem has been impacted by decades of logging and extraction of crabs and mangrove

cockles. The local community is now in charge of an ecotourism project which protects and preserves the resources, and tourism provides them with an environmentally friendly economic alternative. As tourists come to visit the area, they are guided by people of the community and discover the unique biodiversity. The sanctuary shelters a diversity of aquatic invertebrates of economic importance for the local population, as well as some endangered species such as the American crocodile.

KUELAP, AMAZONAS © DANIEL SILVA / PROMPERÚ

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NORTHEAST The regions of Cajamarca and Amazonas are part of the North-Amazon circuit and they contain fascinating tourist trails combining archaeology, history, living culture and nature. Experiencedbased and adventure tourism are growing in this region, where visitors will find the famous Kuelap archaeological complex and where they can also undertake community based tourism in towns such as Maria. Community tourism in this town

contributes directly to the income of the local population through their handicrafts (textiles, leather work) and lodging in family houses. The inhabitants of Maria, of all ages, are actively involved in the development of tourism and preserving cultural traditions such as the textile and leather crafts, using traditional methods like waist and pedal looms.

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CENTRAL ANDES

TREKKING IN HUASCARÁN NATIONAL PARK © JUAN PUELLES

The Ancash region is home to mountain ranges, glaciers and a white blanket of snow. As well as being the site of the Huascaran National Park, it is one of the world’s most privileged alpine tourism hubs. Trekking is a popular activity in this region and one project has established a modern lodge for trekkers on the grounds of a former Cochao plantation, in the Conchucos Canyon. This modern lodge gives a base for visitors undertaking the popular Konchucos Tambo Trek and offers an

excellent combination of comfort and contact with nature whilst benefitting the local community. The lodge was created by Association Ancash and is run by a consortium formed by Explorandes and Rainforest Expeditions. It provides jobs, contributes to the sustainable development of the region and is a source of educational funding for the young people of the area, as the money they make is allocated to financing training in tourism.

NANAY RIVER, LORETO © WALTER WUST

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AMAZON Many ecotourism and community projects are found in the Peruvian Amazon and one example is the work of Rainforest Expeditions. This Peruvian ecotourism company, founded in 1982, provides an authentic ecotourism experience that is both educational and sustainable through conserving the areas where they operate. They run three

lodges located in the Peruvian Amazon: Posada Amazonas, Refugio Amazonas, and the Centro de Investigaciones Tambopata (Tambopata Research Centre) and tourists are encouraged to learn about nature and the local people whilst aiding conservation.

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TREKKING IN PERU FOLLOWING THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE INCAS AND BEYOND months in advance and closing during the month of February for conservation, there are plenty of beautiful alternative and lesser-known trails in Peru.

PERÚ RAIL © BELMOND IMAGES

Most people have heard of the Inca Trail that reaches the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, but Peru has many other breath-taking trekking routes to discover. With the Inca Trail getting booked up

CHOQUEQUIRAO, CUSCO © J VALLEJO/ PROMPERÚ

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Discover Machu Picchu’s sister site Choquequirao, recently named the top region for 2017 on the Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel list. Only around 30% of the site has been excavated so far and is hidden deep in the Salkantay Mountain Range.

Located on a mountain spur, and separated from Machu Picchu by the peak of Salkantay (6,264

metres) the site overlooks the Apurimac River and offers unbeatable 360 degree views of the surrounding ranges. The journey takes a minimum of four days through the spectacular Apurimac Canyon where the Peruvian Condor can often be seen.

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COLCA, AREQUIPA © JAMES POSSO

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Another popular location to view the magnificent Condor is the Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons (3,400 metres) and twice the depth of Arizona’s Grand Canyon. Two- or threeday treks can be arranged from Arequipa with local guides, staying at the base of the canyon with most treks ending in an energetic ascent, arriving at the rim to see the white peaks turning multiple shades of pink at sunrise.

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Andean communities rather than deserted Inca ruins. Visitors have an insight into the Andean way of life in these remote farming hamlets where ancient weaving customs are preserved, Quechuathe Inca language- is still spoken and llamas and alpacas are bred. High-altitude passes offer views of beautiful valleys, snow-draped peaks and crystal-clear lakes and at the end of a hard trek, hot springs welcome weary limbs.

Becoming a popular alternative trek, the Salkantay Trail offers an exhilarating hike around the ice-capped Mount Salkantay, which at 6,241 metres, is the highest peak in the Cordillera Vilcabamba range. After reaching the skies, trekkers descend into a valley where tropical fruits thrive in the balmy climate. If camping is not your cup of tea, then for the more discerning traveller, Mountain Lodges of Peru provide trekkers with the utmost comfort in lodges rather than campsites.

Take the five-day breathtaking trek on the Camino del Apu Ausangate meaning ‘Road of the Apu Ausangate’ in the Cordillera Vilcanota. This trek takes walkers close to the highest, sacred mountain in the Cusco region, the ‘Apu’ which is said to be the bearer of life and guardian of one of

the most pristine mountain ecosystems in the world. Along the route trekkers will see the typical Andean llamas, alpacas and precious vicuñas while also meeting local Quechua-speaking people and learning about their customs and life in the Andes.

TREKKING INCA TRAIL CUSCO © PROMPERÚ

Bearing east from the coast are the highlands, where three mountain ranges meet among volcanoes, canyons and valleys that give life to the imposing Andes. Here lies the impressive Cordillera Negra and Cordillera Blanca (Black and White Mountain Ranges), the latter with snowcapped peaks that rise higher than 5,700 metres above sea level. Visitors can take a spectacular trek past waterfalls and Andean peaks of Chacraraju and Pisco on route to the sparkling blue lagoons of Lake 69.

Take to the Llama trail on the Olleros–Chavin trek which leads visitors to the pre-Incan temple of Chavin de Huantar, one of the oldest in Peru (3,000 years old). Trekkers walk through magnificent valleys and Andean villages and get a glimpse of the traditional Peruvian way of transporting goods with llamas.

The Weavers or Lares trek rivals the Inca Trail for scenery but trekkers will pass through living

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PERUVIAN AMAZON: THINGS TO KNOW AND WHAT NOT TO MISS The main tourist areas are the northern and southern jungles, which share similar characteristics, but the main difference is that the northern Amazon is based on the Amazon River itself with the Iquitos hub at its centre. To get into the wilderness in the north, head straight for Peru’s largest natural reserve, Pacaya-Samiria. In the south, the Manu Biosphere Reserve and Tambopata National Reserve offer brilliant opportunities for wildlife spotting and many lodges close to the river port hub of Puerto Maldonado that include visits to local communities as part of the jungle experience.

RÍO AMAZONAS, LORETO © GETTY IMAGES

Immense and diverse, the Amazon Basin covers a staggering 4,000,000 km². 60% of Peru is in fact covered by this green carpet of jungle and only 6% of its population lives there. The Amazon in Peru is home to a diversity of life that is unequalled anywhere else on Earth and it is this that makes it a paradise for nature lovers. It is home to over 25,000 plant species, approximately 1,800 bird species, 361 mammal species, 251 amphibian species, 297 reptile species and more than 2,500 fish species. The Amazon is considered to be the ‘lungs of the earth’ producing 20% of the Earth’s oxygen and the incredible biological diversity brings with it a fragile environment that needs to be preserved.

WHAT NOT TO MISS: PACAYA-SAMIRIA RESERVE Remote and stunningly beautiful, Peru’s largest reserve has endless waterways and wetlands to make it a jungle hotspot for nature tourism.

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IQUITOS which was designed by Gustave Eiffel (who created the Eiffel Tower). Tarapaca boardwalk is perfect for long walks and has amazing views of the Amazon skyline.

HOTEL PALACE IQUITOS © ISTOCK

Iquitos is the northern Amazon hub and chief town of Peru’s Amazon region. It is home to architectural jewels such as the Casa de Fierro (Iron House) in the Plaza de Armas (Main Square),

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MACAWS, MANU NATIONAL RESERVE © DANIEL SILVA / PROMPERÚ

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MADRE DE DIOS RAINFOREST range of biodiversity along the Tambopata River.

This reserve is rich in flora and fauna and has world record diversities in bird, butterfly, dragonfly, beetle and fly taxa.

The other province is Manu, which takes its name from The Manu National Park considered to host the largest variety of plants and animal life in the world with thousands of bird and plants species, as well as insects and mammals.

Tahuamanu is surrounded by rainforests, thick bamboo groves and is home to 7,000 people.

Madre de Dios is also home to the indigenous group Ese-Eja which have been living in isolation in the deep rainforest for thousands of years. It is believed that there are still hundreds of uncontacted people living there.

TAMBOPATA © WALTER WUST

Located in the south region of Peru, Madre de Dios is a vast and wild region made of dense jungles, rainforests and a vast range of animal species. It is inhabited by a small population of approximately 109,555 people. Once considered a place where foreigners could survive only by the ‘grace of God’, it has become nowadays a more accessible destination for travellers. Local communities promote eco-tourism to preserve the natural landscape of the region by creating unforgettable experiences available only with local guides and specialist tour operators. Madre de Dios features three main areas: Tambopata, Tahuamanu and Manu.

Tambopata is the most populated province, with nearly 100,000 people and is also home to a vast

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RIVERBOAT CRUISES Amazon journeys on the Amazon River as standalone adventures of a lifetime.

PACAYA SAMIRIA, IQUITOS © RICHARD MARK DOBSON

Book a luxury river cruise on the Amazon River, with boats varying in facilities and size. Luxury operator Aqua Expeditions designed the Aria

LONGEST RIVER The Amazon River deserves a special mention, since it is considered to be the widest and according to the latest studies - the longest river

on the planet. Actually, it is 139.99 kilometres longer than the Nile.

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FEAST OF SAINT JOHN

RAYMILLACTA, CHACHAPOYAS © MIGUEL MEJÍA / PROMPERÚ

Tie in a trip with the Feast of Saint John the Baptist on 24th June where the entire Amazon region comes alive. This celebration has a strong association with water and all the street are full of

live bands playing traditional music and dancing parades, where people can also enjoy a typical Amazonian feast.

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NORTHERN PERU THE MOCHE ROUTE, A TOUR OF NORTHERN PERU FEATURING THE EL BRUJO ARCHAEOLOGICAL COMPLEX yourself in one of the most important cultures to settle in Northern Peru between the years 100 and 900 A.D. Thanks to the important archaeological finds in the area, such as the discovery of the lavish tomb of the Lord of Sipan, the Lady of Cao mummy and the mural paintings found in the El Brujo Archaeological Complex, the splendour of one of the most creative and successful cultures of the pre-Hispanic world has been reconstructed.

LADY OF CAO @ ELBRUJO.PE

The Peruvian coast was the birthplace of some of the most important pre-Hispanic cultures of South America. Its legacy allows us to discover today the level of advancement that these civilizations obtained, from both an architectural and an organizational point of view. A civilization that particularly stands out is the Moche culture.

The Moche Route brings to mind cities and towns full of history and an unequalled archaeological richness. Following the Route means immersing

THE LADY OF CAO The discovery of the Lady of Cao in 2005 represented one of the most groundbreaking and revealing finds of Peru in the last few years. It brought about a rethinking of the role of women in the government structures of pre-Hispanic

cultures in South America. The mummified body of the Lady of Cao was found in perfect condition at the El Brujo Archaeological Complex, some 70 kilometres from the city of Trujillo.

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LORD OF SIPAN JEWELS © LUIS GAMERO / PROMPERÚ

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THE LORD OF SIPAN Without a doubt, the discovery of the tomb of the Lord of Sipan was a landmark in the history of Peru. It was found at the Huaca Rajada archaeological site, in the province of Lambayeque. In 1987 a group of archaeologists under the direction of Walter Alva, discovered the tomb of an important governor, with all his riches and icons of command. Thanks to the worldwide impact of this discovery, the fame of the Lord of Sipan spread around the world, making the region

of Lambayeque one of the most visited cultural tourism centres in Peru. In fact, due to the importance of this discovery and the need to adequately accommodate the treasures of Sipan, Walter Alva spearheaded the construction of the Tumbas Reales of the Sipan museum. Its design was inspired by the ancient truncated pyramids of the Moche civilization, and inside there are more than two thousand gold artefacts.

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LAMBAYEQUE – THE TUCUME PYRAMIDS AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUMS In Lambayeque, Museo Arqueologico Nacional Bruning is also a must-see. The museum exhibits archaeological artefacts gathered by the German ethnographer Henry Bruning, and reveals the impressive artistic and technological nature of regional cultures during the last 5,000 years. The Sican Archaeological Complex (Batan Grande) is the greatest example of the culture of the same name. Located in the Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary, it is made up of a variety of pyramid structures, built between the VIII and XII Centuries, which served as temples, housing, craft workshops and cemeteries.

TUCUME ARCHAEOLOGICAL COMPLEX © MYLENE D' AURIOL / PROMPERÚ

The Tucume pyramids are one of the most important pre-Incan centres of the country, both due to their size and the quality of structures. A visit to this site combines archaeological tourism with picturesque scenery and interaction with locals. Expeditions, traditional rituals and visits to settlements are on offer, where one can discover crafts made by local people, participate in religious festivities and sample local food. Within the Tucume pyramids archaeological complex is found the Huaca Las Balsas and the Collud archaeological complex that were opened to the public in 2010. The Nuevo Museo of Tucume houses pieces never before seen, recovered from the archaeological digs carried out in the Tucume pyramids. Examples are the thousands of miniature offerings and the burial offerings of the last Inca ruler.

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CHAN CHAN CITADEL © HEINZ PLENGE PARDO / PROMPERÚ

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ANCIENT CAPITAL OF THE CHIMU KINGDOM IN LA LIBERTAD Chan Chan, the largest mud city of pre-Hispanic America is located in La Libertad. The ancient capital of the Chimu kingdom would have originally covered more than 20 Km² and it is estimated that it housed more than a hundred thousand people. The city, where squares, houses, warehouses, workshops, streets, walls and pyramidal temples can be distinguished, was the urban centre of a large regional state which covered half of Peru’s north coast. Its massive walls are richly decorated with geometric figures in relief, stylized animals and mythological beings.

La Libertad is also the home of the Temples of the Sun and Moon, also known as Huacas de Moche, which with a history of more than 1,500 years are the most important ceremonial centres of the ancient Moche kingdom. You can also stroll through the streets of Trujillo, the capital of La Libertad, and appreciate buildings in colonial and republican style. There’s no shortage of museums, with the modern art and toy museums and the archaeology museum of the University of Trujillo.

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THE BEACH CIRCUIT One of the main departments is Piura, which stands out because it receives many visitors from around the world all year round.

MANCORA

CABO BLANCO

187 km northwest of Piura, on the North Panamerican Highway, Mancora is one of the most popular cities on the coast due to its year-round sunny weather. Its waves make it a surfer´s paradise. It is a great place for learning how to surf or just watching the pros show off their skills along the coastline. It also boasts the largest left hand point break in the world. Swells are generated far south and most of them get consistent offshore winds, and the large number of surf spots make it easy to find uncrowded waves.

Located 3 km north of El Alto district, Cabo Blanco waters are rich in fish and the village is very popular among deep sea fishermen, scuba divers and surfers. Marlins and golden swordfishes are the most abundant species.

SURF IN CABO BLANCO © GIHAN TUBBEH / PROMPERÚ

The Peruvian coast has wonderful and warm beaches, perfect for practicing water sports and enjoying the most incredible waves.

LOS ORGANOS 175 km northwest of Piura, on the North Panamerican Highway, this wide long beach lies at the foot of the Peña Mala Mountain and has an artisanal fishing pier.

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EL ÑURO, PIURA © ESCUELA DE BUCEO SPONDYLUS

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EL ÑURO 17 km southwest of Mancora, this fisherman's cove has become a magnet for visitors looking for the unique experience of swimming with sea turtles, which can been seen close to the fishing pier.

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CAJAMARCA: OTUZCO AND CUMBEMAYO Cumbemayo Archeological Complex was discovered in 1937, this site is surrounded by an interesting stone forest that seems to mimic the silhouettes of pious friars (for which it is colloquially referred to as “frailones”, by the word fraile, Spanish for friar).

CUMBEMAYO, CAJAMARCA © INÉS MENACHO / PROMPERÚ

In Cajamarca, the department of the famous “Inca Baths”, the Otuzco windows provide a surprise in the middle of nature. They are the necropolis of a pre-Inca population formed by hundreds of galleries and individual niches hewn into the volcanic rock.

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KUELAP CITADEL, AMAZONAS © DANIEL SILVA / PROMPERÚ

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CHACHAPOYAS – AMAZONAS

GOCTA FALLS, AMAZONAS © RENZO TASSO / PROMPERÚ

In the department of Amazonas, in the middle of the Andes and dense vegetation, Kuelap is proof of the skill of the Chachapoyas people, who inhabited the area between 800 and 1400 A.D. The buildings were constructed with carved stones and is protected by a huge wall 20 metres high, composed of checkpoints, a tower and three narrow entrances. Some homes have been rebuilt so visitors can imagine the life of the Chachapoyas in communion with nature.

In May 2017, the Kuelap Cable Car was officially

opened, allowing tourists better access to the ruins of the pre-Inca city. Rather than visitors trekking half a day, or driving two hours along windy mountain roads to see the spectacular historic site, the cable car takes just 20 minutes and is expected to increase tourist numbers significantly. The Kuelap Cable Car has the capacity to transport 120,000 tourists a year and the route covers a distance of around 4km from the town of Tingo Nuevo up to the Kuelap visitors centre and entrance to the ruins.

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SOUTHERN PERU AREQUIPA seeking to visit the Colca Canyon and its massive condors. The city is not only a Human Heritage site by UNESCO since 2000, it also plays a fundamental role in Peru’s culinary scene including the produce of classic spicy dishes such as “rocoto relleno”, river shrimps, also called “chupe de camarones”, and many other traditional dishes.

MISTI VOLCANO, AREQUIPA © ALEX BRYCE / PROMPERÚ

Arequipa is Peru’s second-most populous city and known by many as the “white city” for its baroque architecture buildings made with white volcanic rock Pillar. Located between the coast and the southern highlands of Peru, the city features breathtaking views of the three surrounding volcanoes and snow-capped peaks of the western Andes. Arequipa is the ideal base for those

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APURIMAC

PAMPACHIRI, APURIMAC © MIGUEL MEJÍA / PROMPERÚ

Originally home to Chancas, rebellious and fearless warriors of ancient Peru, Apurimac has now become the ideal sporting destination for travellers. Featuring warm springs and adventurous locations, the area is located just south of the centre of Peru and, due to its upland surroundings including forests, lagoons and snowcapped mountains, the region takes its name from Quechua language, meaning “where the gods speak”. The region is steeped in history and features mestizo architecture from the Inca and colonial era, as well as playing host to many

traditional festivals including various carnivals, musical and dancing events like Fiesta de la Virgen de Fatima where numerous musical groups arrive and show their arts. Other places that can be visited in Apurimac region is Peru’s largest lake, Paqucha, where visitors can relax and enjoy the nature around. Travellers can also visit other surrounding cities like the ancient city of Chalhuanca which still preserves churches built during the colonial time and offers visits to the archaeological site of Sayhuite, defined as a religious worship place for Inca.

MACHU PICCHU, CUSCO © ISTOCK

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CUSCO Once the capital of the Inca Empire, the ancient city of Cusco is steeped in history, captivating attractions and landscapes such as the Sacred Valley, where terraces and picturesque villages cover the mountains and, of course, Machu Picchu, the Inca jewel built with the wisdom of the ancient Peruvians in a natural setting.

Machu Picchu is located between the Andes, where the mountains meet the jungle. The area was declared a UNESCO World Cultural and

Natural Heritage Site, as the sanctuary protects archaeological complexes as well as a wide variety of ecosystems, some of which are considered to be endangered. Machu Picchu is connected to various archaeological sites through the Q'apaq Ñan network (Inca Trail). There are six routes (four long and two short) currently available for hiking the Inca Trail, one of the most sought-after trekking experiences in South America.

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UROS ISLANDS, PUNO © ISTOCK

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PUNO, PERU'S FOLKLORIC CAPITAL Puno is home to the western side of popular tourist attraction Lake Titicaca, one of South America's largest lakes and the world’s highest navigable body of water. Founded in 1668 by Viceroy Pedro Antonio Fernandez de Castro who moved by his catholic faith, was eager to convert

the natives, and encouraged Peruvian locals to build beautiful churches around Puno, some of which still stand today. The area is also known as one of the main regions in Peru for agriculture and livestock farming of Andean camelids such as llamas and alpacas, farmed for their wool.

SILLUSTANI, PUNO © HEINZ PLENGE PARDO / PROMPERÚ

Puno is also the land of quinoa and world famous coffee, as well as the gateway to the Altiplano. Its chilly, dry climate is compensated by the warmth of its people and its incredible countryside. Crystal clear blue skies and Lake Titicaca, which feels more like an inland sea than a

lake, are the backdrop for mysterious enchanting islands and archeological sites surrounded by golden uplands that are breathtaking in their beauty.

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HUACACHINA OASIS, ICA © ISTOCK

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ICA, A NATURE TREASURE HUACACHINA AND THE NAZCA LINES Known as ‘the Land of Sun’, Ica is the capital of southern Peru’s Ica region which was long inhabited by various cultures of indigenous people. Located on the Ica River and 48 km from the Pacific Ocean, the city became the ideal spot for travellers seeking to learn about prehistoric fossils and civilisations including the Paracas and the Inca. Ica city is surrounded by some of the most unique parts of Peru including Huacachina, a small oasis in the desert, a nature treasure.

The extremely dry area of Nazca is particularly

well-known for its famous Nazca Lines, mysterious huge geoglyphs and geometric lines across the Atacama Desert. Some lines reach 300 meters (984ft) of length and are best appreciated from the air. Among the most emblematic figures are: the hummingbird, the monkey, and the spider.

Ica’s popularity is also due to its agriculture scene which is home to a range of fruits, cotton production and vineyards which are considered the best in the country.

PARACAS CANDELABRA, ICA © LUIS FRANCISCO GONZALES/PROMPERÚ

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PARACAS CANDELABRA Paracas National Reserve, gets its name from the sandstorms, or “paracas” that are common to the area.

Visitors who cross by boat to the Ballestas Islands, where literally thousands of sea lions live,

get an excellent view of an enormous geoglyph on the side of a hill, of uncertain origin, known as The Candelabra. This is just one more of the many enigmas found in this part of Peru.

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PARACAS NATIONAL RESERVE © SHUTTERSTOCK

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PARACAS NATIONAL RESERVE Among the dunes of Ica there are red sand beaches where you can enjoy a calm blue sea. This is the setting for the first UNESCO Natural Protected Area, the Paracas Reserve, designed to preserve abundant marine and coastal

ecosystems. The extraordinary rock formations in the area, created naturally by the erosion of the sea and the wind, are home to various species of birds, sea lions and penguins.

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MOQUEGUA The city has several tourist attractions including the Plaza de Armas, the main square designed in the 19th century by Gustave Eiffel.

Cerro Baul archaeological site is located 18 km from the city of Moquegua. It was given this name as the mountain resembles a trunk. A small walled city of Wari origin (600-1100 AD) is settled here. It is now an important center where the Andean population continues to pay tribute or perform ritual ceremonies to the Apus or spirits.

CERRO BAUL MOUNTAIN, MOQUEGUA © RAÚL GARCÍA

Located along the Moquegua River at 1,410 metres above sea level, Moquegua is the capital of the Mariscal Nieto Province and Moquegua District. The city is surrounded by diverse landscapes made of ravines, rock formations and desert. Due to its appropriate climate and rich soil, it is an ideal place for agriculture and produces alfalfa and fruits, especially grapes used for the production of wines and Pisco. The city of Moquegua also extends to the coast, offering a number of beautiful beaches such as Roca del Rio.

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GASTRONOMY

CEVICHE© PROMPERÚ

Peru has over 5,000 years of history, and the wealth of its lands and cultural diversity give the country a tremendously varied gastronomy. Peru’s famed culinary fusion has developed over a long process of cultural exchange between the Spanish, African, Chinese, Japanese and Italian settlers, among others. The dishes became more and more varied as races mixed and migrants landed at the port of Callao meaning that each city and region boasts its own regional dish with distinct flavours.

Peru is an inexhaustible pantry full to the brim with exotic fruits from the Amazon rainforest, rich

Andean grains, and exceptional fish, seafood and vegetables from the Coastal valleys along the Pacific Ocean. That is why Peru is known as the super food territory.

In recent years Peru has become a gastronomic epicenter for fusion cuisine. Its talented chefs have taken its cuisine to great heights: for six consecutive years Peru has won World´s Leading Culinary Destination at the World Travel Awards and is recognized as the home of three of the Fifty Best Restaurants in the world: Central, Astrid & Gastón, and Maido.

ANTICUCHOS © JOSÉ CACÉRES / PROMPERÚ

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food, these skewers are marinated in aji panca and vinegar, along with oregano, garlic, pepper and cumin; a flavour that you’ll never forget.

Bottoms up with Pisco! the "flagship beverage" of Peru and an essential ingredient in Peruvian cuisine. It is an exclusive beverage derived from distilled grapes and holding an appellation of origin. It is produced in different varieties: pure pisco, acholado and green must. This drink can be enjoyed pure or in the form of a classic Pisco Sour,

the Peruvian national drink, which combines pisco with sugar syrup, lemon, ice, a frothy egg-white top and a few drops of Angostura bitter. It may in addition be used as the basis of the classic Chilcano, a fresh beverage prepared with pisco, ice and ginger ale.

PISCO SOUR © MUSUK NOLTE / PROMPERÚ

Lima’s most iconic seafood dishes include ceviche, tiradito and parihuela. Also, you can’t miss the tasty anticuchos: beef skewers traditionally prepared with cow's heart. It’s a popular street

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DUCK WITH RICE © JOSÉ CACÉRES / PROMPERÚ

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THE CUISINE OF THE NORTHERN COAST The cuisine of Peru’s northern coast fits perfectly with its warm climate and offers a variety of seafood and fish. A delicious way to savour the varied flavours of ceviches and sudado stews is by accompanying it with a cold beer or corn-based chicha de jora. Red meat lovers can enjoy exquisite cabrito kid meat from the goats raised in the area. This dish, among a cornucopia of both sweet and savoury dishes, make the northern coast an ideal place to visit.

It is a must to try conchas negras (black scallops), crab, majado and majarisco (fried bellaco plantain covered in seafood sauce) while in Tumbes.

The picanterias in Piura are typical restaurants where you can eat malarrabia (yellow rice with salty fish, green bananas and goat cheese dressing), green tamales and seco de chabelo (fried green plantain, dried meat and seasoning).

In Chiclayo, it is highly recommended to try arroz con pato (green rice with duck and dark beer), cabrito a la norteña (braised kid stew), espesado (special rice and meat soup), stingray tortilla, chiringuito (special cebiche made of dried guitar fish), and for dessert, the solid King Kong made of manjarblanco.

JUANE © JOSÉ CACÉRES / PROMPERÚ

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AMAZONIAN CUISINE Juane is one of the Amazon’s most iconic dishes.

It is a rice tamale served with chicken, eggs, olives, sachaculantro (jungle coriander) and tree tomatoes wrapped in bijao leaves.

The most popular dishes in Loreto are tacacho con cecina (roasted plantain fritters with dried pork meat), inchicapi or chicken soup with peanuts and cilantro, and patarashca (fish wrapped in leaves).

TACACHO, MADRE DE DIOS © DANIEL SILVA / PROMPERÚ

Food from the Peruvian Amazon attracts travellers with its great variety of ingredients including beef, poultry, fish, lamb and pork. Exotic delicacies include majaz, with its lean meat and delicious flavour, and plantains, used as a main ingredient in many recipes. And what better companion for this rainforest cuisine than fresh Amazonian fruit juices such as Cocona, Peruvian Lime and Camu Camu juice.

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ROCOTO RELLENO © JOSÉ CACÉRES / PROMPERÚ

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CUISINE OF AREQUIPA with a generous slab of melted cheese.

Other dishes originating in Arequipa are solterito de queso, combining fava beans, corn, olives, hot pepper and chunks of cheese with a lemon and herb dressing, and ocopa, consisting of four or five slices of cooked potato slathered with a sauce made of milk, cheese, peanuts, hot pepper, onion, crackers and shrimp tails.

QUINOA SOLTERITO © ERICK ANDÍA / PROMPERÚ

The local restaurants, also known as picanterias, of the mountain town of Arequipa are the modern expression of an ancestral custom in the region that merges rural life with food and dining. These traditional restaurants still cook over a wood fire, a natural source of heat that intensifies the aromas of the food’s seasonings. Arequipa’s signature dish is the rocoto pepper stuffed with pieces of meat, cheese, eggs and olives blanketed

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ANDEAN CUISINE Quinoa, potatoes, and corn are the very basis of the Andean. Quinoa stands out for being colourful and for having high nutritional values. There are more than 4 thousand varieties of potatoes, of which several native ones have been salvaged; an achievement that nowadays is celebrated all over the country through an annual festival. Last, but not least, the wide range of corn, including the ones cultivated in the Urubamba Valley with immense grains, and the purple corn.

PACHAMANCA © JOSÉ CACÉRES / PROMPERÚ

Andean cuisine consists of stews, soups, meats, and exquisite desserts made from corn, milk and fruits. Combining the high nutritional value of the Andean ingredients in a traditional earthen pot over a wood fire to create the most delicious dishes of this hearty cuisine would be any chef’s dream.

Chicha corn beer was the traditional beverage of the ancient inhabitants of the Andes, and the tradition still lives on today. Exotic liquors distilled in the highlands include wines and artisanal ciders, the most common drinks apart from chicha.

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NOVO-ANDEAN CUISINE

QUINOA WITH GLAZED TERIYAKI PORK © SANDRO AGUILAR / PROMPERÚ

It is a new style that reclaims the culinary customs of Peru and its pre-Hispanic past; therefore, it rediscovers many local ingredients.

A blend of healthy cuisine with Novo Andean flavours, it yields an intense variety of dishes that delight even the most discerning palates.

Peru is a destination that is best discovered through the senses of smell and taste. It is a paradise of ingredients, added to the excellence of a creative and innovative cuisine, based on unique and original products that triumph throughout the world nowadays.

PIQUILLO PEPPER HARVEST © ALEX BRYCE / PROMPERÚ

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SUPER FOODS TERRITORY Peru has become an essential supplier of a wide variety of foods, thanks to its exceptional natural environment and geographical location on the west coast of South America. Its dynamic agricultural industry meets the quality and safety standards required by international markets. The country is equipped with state-of-the-art technology in line with sustainability criteria and a deep respect for the environment.

Its main agricultural products include fruits and vegetables throughout the year and are known for their superb quality, flavor, color, and aroma.

These products are strategically exported to the northern hemisphere.

Peru has significantly contributed to feeding the world with crops that have become global products, such as potatoes, tomatoes, corn, and peppers. It is also a leader country in the export of asparagus, peppers, and paprika, and occupies the top spots in the "Premium" products category with specialty coffees and cocoa.

Peruvian Super Foods have a lot to offer with delicious, healthy and nutritious products that improve people’s life and make the world a better place to live.

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BIRDWATCHING © ENRIQUE CASTRO MENDÍVIL / PROMPERÚ

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BIRDWATCHING AND WILDLIFE Peru is one of the most diverse countries in the world for flora and fauna with an abundance of natural landscapes teaming with wildlife and hundreds of endemic species. From the wilds of the Amazon to the Andes Mountains, Peru is already well-known as a paradise for bird and wildlife watching as well as the exploration of remote and mythical natural landscapes, some of which are still untouched.

Peru is not only the land of the Incas but is also a hotspot for bird lovers as it is home to a vast array of tropical and unusual birds. From parrots and condors, to humming birds and the recently discovered Scarlet-banded barbet, Peru is home to over 1,800 species. Even non-bird lovers will be fascinated by the feathered friends and the main Southern, Central and Northern Birding Routes offer a variety of opportunities to spot endemic species.

MARVELLOUS SPATULETAIL © DUBI SHAPIRO

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THE NORTHERN BIRDING ROUTE The north of Peru is graced by the Andes Mountains, desert, dry forests, cloud forests and Amazonian lowlands, which creates the conditions for many ecosystems and biodiversities and makes it a haven for birds. With a total of 1,200 species, the ‘Northern Route’ is home to some of the most sought-after Peruvian endemics such as the Marvelous Spatuletail and the White-winged Guan. The Abra Patricia pass is becoming one of the best-known birding hotspots, with excellent forest habitats and the remote Awaruna territory

along the lower Marañon River, which is home to specialties such as the Orange-throated Tanager and the White-masked Antbird, is a key spotting location. In Tumbes and Piura, there are fine beaches and small hotels which offer a dedicated customised service, with excellent birding nearby in forest reserves and mangroves. The north is a must for all serious birders!

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ANDEAN COCK OF THE ROCKS © JEREMY CORNEJO

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THE CENTRAL BIRDING ROUTE This route is an experience filled with contrast, beginning in the coastal region of Lima, which includes wetlands and of course the Pacific Ocean. The main part is the central highway, with dramatic passes through the western Andes and mostly dry habitats. It continues over the highest train pass in the world at Ticlio (15,807 ft) onto the

Puna plateau of Junin which has beautiful lakes and wetlands. The route then descends down the eastern slope of the Andes, where the habitat is much more humid than the western side and ends in the breathtaking wet evergreen forest of the Amazon.

THE SOUTHERN BIRDING ROUTE This is the best-known Peruvian birding route, also known as the megadiversity birding route, with an excellent tourism infrastructure and home to the famous Machu Picchu and city of Cusco.

Key sites also include Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, Ballestas Islands, and the Amazon regions of Manu and Tambopata. Key features include Polylepis forest, Macaw-licks, Hummingbird feeders and the Titicaca Grebe. New lesser known

areas in the south are also opening up, including San Fernando, near Nazca, which has the possibility to become an alternative to Paracas and Ballestas with outstanding wildlife. For the budget conscious heading to the Amazon, Las Piedras River is accessible from Puerto Maldonado and an alternative to Tambopata and Manu.

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PRIMATES Monkeys scatter the seeds from the fruits they eat over large areas, contributing to the regeneration of the dominant lianas vines and trees of the Amazon forest, home to practically all of Peru's monkeys. The only exceptions are the white-fronted capuchin monkey, which is also found in certain areas of the Andes' western slopes in the northern departments of Piura and Tumbes, and the howler monkey of Tumbes, which is found only in the northernmost tropical forests of the Pacific.

EMPEROR TAMARIN © ENRIQUE CASTRO-MENDIVIL/ PROMPERÚ

There are 32 different species of primates in Peru.

These are divided into three large taxonomical families which group together the primates found in the New World: Callithricidae, which includes tamarins and marmosets; Callimiconidae, which comprises one unique species (Goeldi's monkey); and the Cebidae, the largest of the three groups which includes common squirrel monkeys, capuchin monkeys, dusky titi monkeys, nightmonkeys, howler monkeys, woolly monkeys and spider monkeys, among others.

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MARINE MAMMALS Undoubtedly the most widely-seen mammals on the Peruvian coast are the sea lions. The mammals reproduce between November and March, ideal months for observation. The best spots for finding them is along the southern coast, places including Paracas’ Ballestas Islands, Punta Arquillo and Morro Quemado where possibly the largest number of sea lions and southern fur seals in the country congregate.

The coastal beaches of the Paracas National Reserve are also the best spots for viewing the elusive chingungo or marine otter, a marmot that inhabits the rarely-visited rocks and beaches of the central and southern Peruvian coast. The beaches of Mendieta and La Catedral have the

greatest number of recorded endangered species.

A bit further south (480 km from Lima via the PanAmerican Highway) is Punta San Juan, a Reserve established to protect the nesting grounds of guano birds, Humboldt penguins and a large colony of sea lions.

BALLESTAS ISLANDS, ICA © GIHAN TUBBEH / PROMPERÚ

BALLESTAS ISLANDS, ICA © EDUARDO CAYO/PROMPERÚ

There are a total of 33 species of marine mammals in Peru ranging from the tiniest saltwater marine otters or chingungos, which inhabit inaccessible beaches, to the large whales and sperm-whales that roam the open sea. Scientists group them into nine taxonomic families, with the most important being the otariidae and the delphinus, that group the sea lions and southern fur seals and the dolphins, respectively.

LLAMAS IN MACHU PICCHU © ENRIQUE CASTRO MENDIVIL / PROMPERÚ

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ANDEAN CAMELIDS A typical inhabitant of the Andes, the South American camelid has for the past 6,000 years served as a source of food, clothing and as a beast of burden. The four species of Andean camelid, llama, alpaca, vicuña and guanaco, are a quintessential part of the personality of the

highlands and have wielded a major influence on the serene and contemplative idiosyncrasy of its tamers. Over the centuries, various Andean cultures have crafted images of camelids, from the cave paintings of Toquepala, depicting hunting scenes, to the more sophisticated Inca pottery.

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CANDELARIA FESTIVAL, PUNO © RENZO GIRALDO / PROMPERÚ

PERU’S CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FIESTA DE LA CANDELARIA (FEBRUARY) Peru comes alive in February with a colourful display of dance, elaborate costumes and unique masks. Peruvian cities that stand out for their carnival celebrations include Puno, Cajamarca, Ayacucho, Huaraz, Apurímac, San Martín and Tacna.

In Puno the Fiesta de la Candelaria takes place in honour of the Virgin of Candelaria, patron saint of the city, and is one of the largest culture, music and dance festivals in Peru.

CANDELARIA FESTIVAL, PUNO © MUSUK NOLTE / PROMPERÚ

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IMMACULATE CONCEPTION FESTIVAL (7TH – 10TH DECEMBER) In the city of Chivay near Arequipa in the Colca Valley the festival sees men dressed in women’s clothes approach the ladies and whisk them away to join the procession and dance the night away (the main day of the festival is 8th December).

This is a beautiful time to visit the 16 Baroque churches of the Colca Valley and the terraces of the second deepest canyon in the World, the Colca Canyon.

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INTI RAYMI, CUSCO © HEINZ PLENGE PARDO / PROMPERÚ

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INTI RAYMI (FESTIVAL OF THE SUN – JUNE 24TH) Every year on June 24th Cusco celebrates the most famous festival in the Inca calendar, Inti Raymi or Festival of the Sun. The winter solstice and local harvest are the driving force behind this celebration in honour of the solar deity: Wiracocha. It is now the second largest festival in Latin America with over 200,000 people visiting

Cusco to join on the celebration, parties and fireworks. Professors, archaeologists and historians carefully script a performance of an Inca ritual in the fortress of Sacsayhuaman which is just two kilometres away from Cusco, then the city itself parties the day and night away.

VIRGEN DEL CARMEN © WALTER HUPIU

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VIRGEN DEL CARMEN FESTIVAL (15TH – 18TH JULY) Experience the colourful procession along typical Peruvian village streets to celebrate and worship the Virgin of El Carmen in Paucartambo, Cusco region on July 15th – 18th. Enjoy music and singing in Quechua, performed by groups representing

passages of the history of Peru. As part of the festival, the Virgin blesses the attendants and the villagers perform acrobatic displays on the roof tops.

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MARINERA, PERUVIAN PASO HORSE© DENISE TEJADA / PROMPERÚ

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INTERNATIONAL SPRING FESTIVAL (SEPTEMBER) To celebrate the blossoming of spring in Peru, the streets come alive with the International Spring Festival in the northern city of Trujillo in September/October. The colonial streets and houses are decorated in honour of a grand floats

parade led by the ‘Queen of Spring’, followed by foreign and Peruvian beauty queens. During the festival the traditional Peruvian dancers of the Marinera also display their talents in dance contests

LORD OF THE MIRACLES PROCESSION, LIMA © WALTER SILVERA / PROMPERÚ

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LORD OF MIRACLES (OCTOBER) In the second half of October tens of thousands of people take the streets in downtown Lima wearing purple tunics, singing hymns and praying to the ‘Lord of Miracles’. This festival dates back to colonial times, when a slave painted an image of Christ on the walls of a hut in Pachacamilla near

Lima. The image became worshipped after surviving an earthquake in the 18th century in which most of the city was destroyed leaving only that mural standing. Today this celebration is one of the largest in Latin America.

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5 REASONS TO CHOOSE PERU A country that looks to the future. An economy that has grown steadily for 15 years and has negotiated Free Trade Agreements with the main economies of the world, such as the US, China and the EU.

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Strategic location. Peru is easily accessible from most of the main hubs of the world with direct domestic and international flights in and out of Lima.

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Heritage cities. Lima, Arequipa and Cusco have been declared Unesco World Heritage Sites.

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World-famous cuisine. Peru has been chosen as the world’s best culinary destination by the WorldTravel Awards for eight consecutive years. In addition,two Peruvian restaurants have made their way onto the list of the World’s 50 Best restaurants and eleven others are included on the list of latin America’s 50 Best restaurants.

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LIMA'S BUSINESS CENTER © CRISTIAN VINCES

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A destination for hosting major events. Peru is ready to host world-class events with modern infrastructure and security. Events held in previous years include the Boards of Governors of the IMF and the World Bank or the COP20 climate change and the VIII Summit of the Americas.

The International Association of Congresses and Conventions (ICCA) produces an annual ranking of the number of events taking place in cities and countries around the world. In its latest report, Lima ranked second in the Americas, while Peru ranked 39th worldwide; a sign that this country is an excellent alternative for meetings tourism.

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GALLERY

AMAZON RIVER © DELFÍN AMAZON CRUISES

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PARACAS DESERT, ICA © LUIS FRANCISCO GONZALES / PROMPERÚ

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LAS POCITAS BEACH, PIURA © MARCELA DELGADO / PROMPERÚ

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TAMBOPATA, MADRE DE DIOS © LUIS FRANCISCO GONZALES / PROMPERÚ

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GALLERY

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PARACAS © GETTY IMAGES

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Peru is home to some of the most alluring boutique hotels on the planet. If you’re looking for somewhere small, stylish and individual, this selection won’t disappoint.

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

ARANWA CUSCO BOUTIQUE HOTEL A museum hotel built in a colonial mansion of the 16th century, which houses more than 300 pieces of art between paintings of the Cuzco school, colonial sculptures and carvings, the Aranwa Cusco hotel is the essence of luxury and comfort in the heart of the city of the Incas.

Elegant rooms are equipped with an oxygen system to aid in the prevention of altitude sickness and pillow menu, while the beautiful marble bathrooms boast underfloor heating and organic toiletries.

Situated in the mystical city of Cusco, Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel ensures guests a brilliantly majestic Andean experience only rivalled by its rich heritage and gracious hospitality. www.aranwahotels.com

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

CASA ANDINA PRIVATE COLLECTION VALLE SAGRADO With a privileged mountain location, Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley Hotel & Villas boasts fabulous views of the Andes from each of its 91 rooms and villas.

Guests can expect complimentary WiFi, room service, a bountiful breakfast buffet, an event room, sauna, spa and gym, parking and planetarium – the best place to observe the milky way and the southern cross. www.casa-andina.com/destinos/vallesagrado/hotel-cusco-valle-sagrado_casa-andinapremium/

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

COUNTRY CLUB LIMA HOTEL Situated in the prestigious San Isidro district, Country Club Lima Hotel lies approximately 20 minutes from downtown Lima.

Built in 1927 and declared a Peruvian Cultural Monument, the Country Club Lima Hotel presents the perfect marriage of architectural charm, history, and modern comfort. All rooms and suites are decorated in a delightful mix of classical and Peruvian artworks.

Keen golfers can tee off at the 18-hole course located opposite the hotel, before enjoying the obligatory Pisco Sour at the oak-panelled English Bar. ww.lhw.com/hotel/Country-Club-Lima-Hotel-LimaPeru

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

HOTEL B Opened in 2013 in the buzzy barrio of Barranco, Hotel B is the first arts-boutique hotel in Lima.

The Belle Époque mansion features 17 rooms, which are split between the original house and a modern annex. Along with hardwood floors, wooden beams, soft, plush fabrics and a glass and marble bathroom, guests can expect a mountainous bed, beautiful artwork and a welcoming glass of champagne.

Hotel B’s signature restaurant is overseen by Chef Oscar Velarde, who blends local ingredients with Mediterranean flavours to create authentic Peruvian dishes. All meals are best sampled with a great South American wine, naturally.

Elsewhere the hotel’s excellent concierge team can arrange private viewings at local galleries and invitations to specialist arts events in the local area and organise trips to local markets, cooking classes and Pisco tasting events. www.hotelb.pe

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

SUMAQ MACHU PICCHU HOTEL Right on the edge of Aguas Calientes, this 60 room family hotel enjoys unspoilt views of the steamy valley, reaching almost as far as nearby Machu Picchu itself.

The hotel’s 61 spacious rooms and suites, the majority of which look out over the river and have a balcony, are stylishly decorated with a mixture of earthy colours, rich furnishings and contemporary design features.

Factor in a first class spa, with a jacuzzi and steam room, a boutique, café bar – where cooking and Pisco making classes take place – and sensational restaurant, and you have a great base from which to visit the awe-inspiring ruins and lost city of Machu Picchu. www.machupicchuhotels-sumaq.com

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

TITILAKA This luxurious all-suite lodge is set on a secluded private peninsula on the shores of Peru's famous Lake Titicaca, aka the world's highest navigable lake.

Titilaka features 18 fully serviced lake view suites kitted out with heated floors, iPod docks and spa bathrooms, with oversized tubs and massage showers and an array of amenities for a comfortable stay.

Meanwhile the restaurant at Titilaka Lodge has floor to ceiling windows overlooking the water, and offers a menu that showcases the finest contemporary Peruvian cuisine.

There are plenty of activities on offer at the lodge for those who want to get active. Go mountain-biking and rowing or, when night falls, indulge in a spot of stargazing. Other facilities include a spa, two private beaches, three lounges, a fully-equipped media and reading room with TV, books, games and DVDs, and a small jetty. https://titilaka.pe/en/

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

COSTA DEL SOL RAMADA CUSCO Located in Cusco’s Centro Historico, Costa del Sol Ramada Cusco is housed in a 17th-century colonial mansion – a few steps away from Cusco Main Square and La Merced Church – that combines historical architecture and murals with all the comforts of a modern, contemporary hotel.

Costa del Sol Ramada Cusco offers 90 well-appointed guest rooms with free high-speed WiFi, cable TV, direct dial telephone, safe and mini bar.

Lounge in the sun, cool off in the pool, or hit the onsite fitness centre. Then spend a relaxing afternoon, reading a book in the peaceful comfort of the courtyard while sipping a special vintage of wine from the hotel’s wine cellar, Cava del Marqués.

Should you manage to make it out if the hotel, attractions including the Central Market, Cathedral of Cusco and Inka Museum lie close by. www.wyndhamhotels.com/ramada/cusco-peru/hotel-costadel-sol-ramada-cusco

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

DCO SUITES LOUNGE & SPA MANCORA This chic hotel enjoys a privileged location on a lovely stretch of beach in Mancora.

The property has been thoughtfully designed so that wonderful views over the Pacific Ocean can be enjoyed at every turn – each of the seven stylishly decorated suites boasts private terrace or balcony facing the ocean.

Relax by the beautiful infinity pool or on the beach, dine on gourmet Peruvian cuisine in the restaurant and watch a spectacular sunset while sipping on a cocktail.

Don’t leave without booking a treatment at the fabulous spa that’s located at the top of the hotel and, again, boasts panoramic vistas. www.hoteldco.com

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

EL GOLF HOTEL BOUTIQUE An outstanding service awaits you at El Golf Hotel Boutique, a small luxurious hotel located in the San Isidro district, only a short drive from Miraflores district and from Lima city centre.

El Golf Hotel Boutique has 20 luxurious rooms and suites, featuring a range of amenities, including flatscreen LCD TVs, wireless internet connection, safes and mini-bars. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries and bathrobes.

The terrace is a great spot to take some time out, before tucking into fusion cuisine with traditional Peruvian elements in the acclaimed restaurant.

Spa services are also available, with a range of massages and treatments, while there is also a meeting room for small and medium sized business events. www.elgolfhotelboutiqueperu.com/es

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

BELMOND LAS CASITAS Set among the beautiful and peaceful surroundings of Peru’s Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, this collection of casitas offer the ultimate Andean escape.

All casitas blend effortlessly with the natural environment and feature a private terrace with a heated plunge pool, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the magnificent views.

Ramblers will enjoy taking a walk through the hotel’s extensive vegetable garden, with five natural greenhouses and a prickly pear orchard and exploring the 14 hectares of Colca Canyon.

More adventurous types can venture further into the canyon accompanied by the hotel’s own horse. Guest can get up close to other creatures too: feed alpacas at the property’s on-site farm and learn about traditional Peruvian farming techniques.

Meanwhile true foodies can discover the secret of Peruvian cuisine with cookery lessons from the hotel’s expert chefs. www.belmond.com/hotels/south-america/peru/colcacanyon/belmond-las-casitas/

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

SONESTA POSADAS DEL INCA SACRED VALLEY

Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, five minutes from Urubamba, and surrounded by beautiful gardens, Sonesta Posada del Inca Yucay hotel is a remodelled 18th-century monastery that retains its original colonial charm.

Sonesta Posadas del Inca offers 88 rooms including four suites which boast garden and courtyard views, individually controlled heating units, television with remote control, direct dial telephones for domestic and international calls, in-room safe deposit box.

The hotel also offers the Inkafé Plaza Restaurant which serves a variety of traditional Novo-Andean and international dishes. Aside from visiting Machu Picchu, guests can enjoy adventure activities such as river rafting, horseback riding and visits to nearby Ollantaytambo, Moray and Maras Salt Mines. www.sonesta.com/pe/cusco/urubamba/sonesta-posadas-del-incasacred-valley-yucay

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

VILLA BARRANCO Located in a lovingly restored 1920s house in the artsy barrio (neighbourhood) of Barranco, accommodation at this boutique hotel consists of nine elegant rooms and suites, split over two floors. All have high ceilings and stately furniture while the largest room has a separate loft, and an enormous bathroom with a freestanding tub.

However the hotel’s crown jewel is its rooftop terrace, which comes with a view of the nearby coast.

Villa Barranco is perfectly positioned or exploring the local area: Barranco’s main attractions such as the Bridge of Sighs and numerous art galleries like Museo de Arte Contemporaneo and Galeria Lucia de la Puente are all within easy reach. www.ananay-hotels.com/branches/villa-barranco/

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

ATEMPORAL

Marrying an eclectic sense of modern urban cool with an old school service ethic that anticipates guests’ every need, Atemporal is the perfect refuge for discerning travellers interested in exploring contemporary Lima.

Housed in a revamped 1940s mansion in the chic Miraflores district, all nine rooms at Atemporal are modern in design and finished with a collection of classic artwork and artefacts from throughout Peru, giving each a unique character and slightly eclectic feel. All rooms are en-suite and WiFi is complimentary.

The fantastic onsite restaurant serves up delicious cuisine around the clock, making use of fresh, local ingredients, while bicycles are available for hire and there is also a concierge and chauffeur service to help maximise your free time. www.atemporal.pe

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PERU’S BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS

CASA REPUBLICA BARRANCO BOUTIQUE HOTEL This 17 room hotel in the buzzing district of Barranco, Lima, is located in a magnificent 1920s mansion.

All the rooms offer Wi-Fi, TVs, safety boxes, and hair dryers to make guests’ stay more comfortable, while the staff soon feel like old friends owing to their warm, personalised service.

The property features a restaurant serving Peruvian cuisine as well as a wonderful rooftop bar, the perfect place to unwind with a Pisco Sour after exploring Barranco’s best restaurants, galleries and nightlife. www.casarepublica.com

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PLAZA DE ARMAS MAYOR LIMA ©ISTOCK

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TOP 10 PLACES T

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TO VISIT IN PERU PERU BOASTS SO MANY RICHES THAT PLANNING A TRIP TO THIS SOUTH AMERICAN GEM, MAY SEEM OVERWHELMING. FORTUNATELY FOR YOU, DEAR READER, HELP IS AT HAND. BEST IN TRAVEL HAS NARROWED IT DOWN TO THE TOP 10 ADVENTURES IN THE LAND OF THE INCAS…

LIMA Once overlooked as a mere stopover, Lima is now a destination in its own right, revitalised by new hotels, museums and a gastronomic revolution.

Founded in 1535 by the conquistador Francisco Pizarro, Lima was the centre of operations for the export of silver and other booty back to Seville. Until the early 19th century, the city’s palaces, churches, monasteries and universities provided Spanish settlers with a home from home.

Lima’s historic centre recalls those grand days. It also provides a superb first foray into pre Columbian South America. Huaca Pucllana, a vast administrative and ceremonial site occupied by the Lima civilisation will blow you away. It’s around 1,800 years old making Lima one of the oldest permanently settled places in the Americas.

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CARAL © MICHAEL TWEDDLE / PROMPERÚ

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CARAL The UNESCO World Heitrage Site of Caral – a three hour road trip from Lima – rewards a visit.

Peru’s oldest site, developed simultaneously with the ancient cultures of Mesopotamia and Egypt about 5000 years ago, Caral was home to a sophisticated and cohesive society with its pyramids and ritual structures indicating a powerful religious order.

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CUSCO CITY© SHUTTERSTOCK

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CUSCO CITY From Lima, it takes just an hour by air to reach Cuzco – the Inca’s navel of the world – but it takes time to adjust to the shift in altitude from sea level to over 11,000ft.

This low slung city, thought to be laid out in the shape of a puma, remains one of the most beguiling metropolises in South America owing to its ancient cobble-stone streets, majestic baroque churches and prime people watching: look for immaculately dressed women walking their llamas on leashes!

When night falls, visit the Hotel Monastery for a cocktail in its candlelit courtyard before dining at Cicciolina,(cicciolinacuzco.com), one of Cuzco’s best restaurants.

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SACSAYHUAMAN © GETTY IMAGES

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SACSAYHUAMAN It’s worth venturing to the Inca site of Sacsayhuaman, two miles north of Cuzco, which in its way is just as impressive as Machu Picchu. Massive stones, some over 30ft tall, have been used to build walled terraces, ritual spaces and fortifications.

It is the work of more than 20,000 men who extracted the stones from the quarries of Muina, Huacoto and Rumicolca and moved them 20 km to the hill of the city of Cusco, where they were transformed into the wall that can now be seen.

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MARAS The salt mines, or the famous "salt pools" of Maras are located in the rural community of Pichingoto in Cusco.

Place where the salt pools have been passed down from generation to generation and are still, today, maintained by the locals, who cultivate the salt and prepare it for purchase.

This site is highly recommended for photography lovers because of its impressive landscape that stretches out in all of its splendor. It is also perfect for hikers and mountain bikers, since this trail connects the salt mines with the villages of Tarabamba and Pichingoto.

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LLAMA IN MACHU PICCHU © GIHAN TUBBEH / PROMPERÚ

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MACHU PICCHU To see Machu Picchu – a fantastic Inca citadel lost to the world until its rediscovery in the early 20th century – in a different light from most people, why not visit at dawn? (Machu Picchu opens at 6am).

With its emerald terraces and Andean ridges that can be seen on the horizon, Machu Picchu will cause even the most jaded traveller’s jaw to drop. Even if you can only go for a day, take the train or bus up to the famous ruins and discover its beauty and mystery for yourself.

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NAZCA LINES, ICA ©TALIA BARREDA / PROMPERÚ

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NAZCA LINES Hailed by UNESCO as one of "archeology's greatest enigmas” the legendary Nazca Lines stretch across nearly 200 square miles of high arid plateau.

The Nazca Lines are made up of interesting figures of different designs on the surface of the land and range from giant spiders, to vast geometric shapes, to enormous monkeys as large as 890 feet (roughly two and a half football fields). Hummingbirds, fish, sharks or orcas, llamas, and lizards – and, according to some, astronauts, aliens, and landing zones – are all depicted in these enormous line drawings.

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CHAN CHAN CITADEL ©WALTER SILVERA / PROMPERÚ

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CHAN CHAN The timeless citadel of clay, was the capital of the Chimú kingdom, which stretched along the entire north coast between 1100-145 AD, before being conquered by the Incas.

One of the outstanding details of the 10 walled citadels is its decorative walls. The archaeological complex also includes neighbourhoods, walls, pavements, channels and cemeteries among others.

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AREQUIPA ©ISTOCK

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AREQUIPA The Misti volcano may be dormant, but Arequipa wakens every morning amidst a flurry of activity. And although the summit of the volcano is often wreathed by small clouds of smoke, the Arequipa townsfolk – proud of their land – welcome visitors to stroll through the streets of white stone and traditional squares. The lordly city of Arequipa owes the characteristic hue of its houses and other constructions to the white sillar stone a quarried in the region.

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TITICACA LAKE © ISTOCK

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LAKE TITICACA Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world.

At 284m deep and more than 8300 square kilometres in area, it is 15 times the size of Lake Geneva in Switzerland.

However it is not just the setting that makes Lake Titicaca such a unique destination – it’s also a fascinating insight into traditional Incan culture. To the local indigenous people, Lake Titicaca is a spiritual place where the founders of Incan civilisation are believed to have risen from the water. You can experience this ancient culture by visiting some of the lake’s islands. Best in Travel recommends Islas de los Uros – the artificial floating islands of reed named after the natives who inhabited them. The islanders continue to practice traditional customs and crafts today: women wear bowler hats and the men knit their own brightly coloured headgear and they fish, hunt birds, and live off lake plants.

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PERU’S

BEST HOTELS Five star hotels are many... but exceptional hotels are few.

We’ve hand picked our favourite boltholes in Peru, ranging across a spectrum of hotels, resorts and business hotels. All offer something extraordinary – be it location, service, style, soul or design – because, after all, life should be better when you check in.

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✶ EL PARDO DOUBLETREE BY HILTON HOTEL LIMA Enviably located just three blocks from Miraflores Central Square and eight blocks from the Pacific Ocean coast and Larcomar Entertainment Center, El Pardo DoubleTree

by Hilton offers 241 recently renovated rooms and suites, all boasting Sweet Dreams beds to ensure a deluxe night's rest.

International specialties and the best Peruvian cuisine can be found in classic restaurant, El Lobby del Pardo, as well as brand new café La Terraza del Pardo. www.doubletree3.hilton.com/en/hotels/p eru/el-pardo-doubletree-by-hilton-hotelLIMPUDT

Enjoy amenities including the hotel's sparkling indoor pool on the 11th floor, featuring a sundeck with city views, the twolevel fitness centre, the Millennium Sports Club, and the hotel bar, where you can sip a Pisco Sour or two.

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✶ BELMOND MIRAFLORES PARK LIMA Set in one of Lima’s most fashionable areas, Belmond Miraflores Park takes you straight to the heart of all that's best about Peru’s great capital city.

This luxury hotel combines personalised service, exceptional dining and indulgent facilities to create the perfect base from which to explore: colonial architecture, superb museums with Inca gold and PreColumbian antiquities, and glamorous shops, bars and restaurants are all just moments from the hotel.

Back at Belmond Miraflores Park, enjoy a refreshing swim in the property’s heated rooftop pool, with breathtaking views of Lima and the Pacific Ocean, keep fit in the modern gym, indulge in some me-time at the spa or transport your tastebuds at one of the restaurants. Then recline in plush rooms which mix warming Peruvian accents with the latest technology. www.belmond.com/hotels/southamerica/peru/lima/belmond-miraflorespark/

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✶ DELFINES HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER LIMA Whether you are looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or the perfect spot to close a business deal, Delfines Hotel & Convention Center provides an array of comfortable and stylish accommodations sure to exceed expectations.

Check into 206 charming rooms and suites in a 14-storey building that features magnificent views of the Lima Golf Club – one of the largest and most beautiful green spaces in the city.

Tackle last-minute work emergencies with Delfines’ wireless Internet access or simply unwind while watching premium cable television on a flat-screen TV. For a truly decadent experience, reserve a room or suite located between the 12th and 14th floor: guests on these floors will also enjoy the privacy of the exclusive Executive Lounge, perfect for business meetings. www.losdelfineshotel.com

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✶ JW MARRIOTT HOTEL LIMA Built by U.S based Arquitectonica, the five star Mariott enjoys a superb seafront location in trendy Miraflores.

Housed in an eye-catching 25-story glass tower that resembles an enormous arch, the JW Marriott Hotel Lima offers 300 soundproofed rooms which have ocean views and boast every amenity imaginable: read plasma TVs, ergonomic desk chairs, minibar and whirlpool baths.

There’s also a spa, bar, casino, open air tennis court, sauna and pool.

While there’s an array of outstanding restaurants on the Marriott’s doorstep, be sure to make time for the JW Sushi Ceviche Lounge, which serves Peruvian seafood specialties as well as top notch nigiri and sashimi. www.marriott.com/hotels/hotelinformation/restaurant/limdt-jw-marriotthotel-lima

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✶ HILTON LIMA MIRAFLORES LIMA Ideally located just five blocks from the Larcomar shopping mall and four from Parque Kennedy, Hilton Lima Miraflores offers excellent service and fine facilities including a restaurant serving authentic Peruvian dishes as well as international cuisine, and a street-level bar.

Contemporary rooms and suites are spacious and elegant, boasting floor-toceiling windows and marble bathrooms.

Upgrade to a Deluxe Room to enjoy free WiFi or one of the executive floor rooms or over-sized suites for access to the top-floor Executive Lounge where you can enjoy complimentary canapés, afternoon tea and drinks.

Leisure facilities include a fitness centre and a heated rooftop pool offering fantastic sea views. http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/peru/ hilton-lima-mirafloresLIMMFHH/index.html

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✶ SWISSÔTEL LIMA An elegant and modern luxury hotel, this luxury five star hotel which recently completed a multi-million dollar expansion, lies within easy reach of Lima's historical city centre and just seven miles from Jorge Chavez International Airport.

Elsewhere Swissotel Lima’s renovated swimming pool and fitness centre will keep you active during your stay in Lima, while the Gym at Swissotel Lima allows you to work out while enjoying your favourite TV show or listening to your own music.

Offering a luxurious Swiss touch with fresh, stylish accommodations, 345 rooms and suites are available for your business or leisure stay.

If rest and relaxation is required, the remodelled SPA at Swissotel Lima has you covered: choose from an exclusive menu of body and facial treatments. www.swissotel.com/hotels/lima

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✶ THE WESTIN LIMA HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER LIMA Located in Lima’s vibrant financial and shopping district, the hotel is just 15km from Jorge Chávez International Airport and mere minutes from a dazzling selection of restaurants, galleries and parks, as well as banks and corporate headquarters.

Choose from 301 spacious guest rooms or suites with contemporary furnishings and a host of pampering amenities, including a signature Heavenly® Beds and Heavenly® Showers.

As the largest convention center in Lima, The Westin Lima caters to every type of meeting and setup, complete with the latest technologies and dedicated staff.

After a long day of meetings, recharge in the Heavenly Spa by Westin™, swim a few lengths in the indoor pool, or let off steam in the fitness centre. www.westinlima.com

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✶ HOTEL SAN AUGUSTIN EXCLUSIVE LIMA Located in Miraflores, all rooms at Hotel San Agustin Lima are kitted out with mini bar, cable TV and marble bathroom, plus all the essentials for an enjoyable stay. Many also feature a living area, a work desk and bathrobes.

San Agustin Exclusive is also ideally situated for sightseeing in Lima with Larcomar Shopping Center within a 10minute walk. Meanwhile Jorge Chavez International Airport is only a 40-minute drive away.

Guests can start their day with an extensive buffet breakfast, served in San Agustin´s restaurant which is open 24 hours a day.

When night falls, enjoy a drink in the comfortable lounge bar.

www.hotelessanagustin.com.pe/en

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✶ MELIÁ LIMA Located in San Isidro, Lima’s important financial district in Lima, next to Real Plaza Salaverry and near the historic city centre, Miraflores and the International Airport (Jorge Chávez), the Meliá Lima is a great base from which to explore Peru’s charismatic capital.

Fantastic location aside, the hotel provides 180 comfortable and spacious rooms, free high speed WiFi internet throughout the hotel, a fully equipped Business Centre with private board room, a high end restaurant and lobby bar, two outdoor terraces, Wellness Centre with a fully equipped gym, sauna and Turkish bath. www.melia.com/en/hotels/peru/lima/meli a-lima/index.html

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✶ PLAZA DEL BOSQUE LIMA Strategically located in the financial and commercial district of San Isidro and within a 40-minute drive of Jorge Chavez International Airport, Plaza del Bosque is surrounded by beautiful parkland.

Breakfast is served in the in-house restaurant, while a small lobby bar boasts a charming terrace. Friendly staff are available to book tours and sightseeing trips in Lima.

The nine-story hotel offers 95 bright rooms featuring modern touches such as a minibar, TV with satellite channels, a balcony, coffee/tea makers and a writing desk.

www.plazadelbosque.com/default-en.html

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✶ ROYAL PARK HOTEL LIMA With 18 floors, a number of Royal Park Hotel’s 75 rooms and suites have spectacular views of the golf course. The three Royal Suites also provide separate living and dining areas.

trip to Museo Larco or the Gold Museum before returning to Royal Park Hotel to enjoy gourmet food at Le Molière or a snack at the Bar & Lounge, with handmade bread and pastries.

Head to the gym for an invigorating work out and then enjoy a refreshing dip in the rooftop pool. There is also free Wi-Fi available throughout the hotel.

Located in San Isidro and close to Lima Golf Course the hotel is also within walking distance of numerous restaurants, trendy boutiques and bars, outdoor cafes, theatres and cinemas.

For a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history of Lima, visit the nearby Huaca Huallamarca, and Huaca Pucllana, intriguing Pre-Columbian archaeological sites. Take a

www.royalparkhotel.pe

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✶ SHERATON LIMA HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER LIMA This enormous hotel enjoys a convenient location at the entrance to the historic centre of Lima. Attractions in the surrounding area include the Museo Italiano, the Museo de Arte, the Museo Nacional de Arqueologia Antropologia e Historia as well as a number of churches.

Sheraton Lima Hotel & Convention Center compromises 431 rooms including three suites and 17 junior suites, all boasting spectacular views of the city and private balconies.

Unsurprisingly this five star hotel offers a string of luxurious amenities including a world-class dining option, a hairdressing salon, fitness center, gym, pool and steam bath and sauna. It’s also possible to play a game of tennis. www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/prope rty/overview/index.html?propertyID=284 &SWAQ=958C

PERU

✶ BELMOND SANCTUARY LODGE MACHU PICCHU Belmond Sanctuary Lodge is the only hotel located adjacent to Machu Picchu meaning guests can enjoy exceptionally easy access to the mystifying ancient Inca citadel from early morning to late afternoon.

The lodge boasts two suites and 29 rooms, 12 of them with an amazing view of the mountains, and all with a cozy and relaxing environment.

For cocktails and dinner, enjoy the intimate atmosphere of Tampu, serving delicious international and Peruvian fare.

There’s also a relaxation area that’s perfect for yoga and meditation, plus two massage rooms. www.belmond.com/hotels/southamerica/peru/machu-picchu/belmondsanctuary-lodge

Watch the sun rise over mountains, then head off for a day of discovery. Enjoy a buffet lunch where oversize windows give way to spectacular views.

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✶ TAMBO DEL INKA VALLE SAGRADO Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, is the only hotel in Urubamba with its own private train station to Machu Picchu, Tambo del Inka goes to great lengths to guarantee guests an incredible stay, offering 128 guest rooms, refined dining, a therapeutic spa, two swimming pools – including a chromotherapeutic indooroutfoor pool which changes colour at night – and premier fitness centre, along with an emerald lagoon and blooming riverside gardens.

www.tambodelinkaresort.com

PERU

✶ HOTEL PARACAS PARACAS BAY Nestled 250km south of Lima, Hotel Paracas Resort, A Luxury Collection resort, is ideally situated for travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature, as well as those seeking a glimpse into the mysterious and intriguing history of Peru’s central coast and its ancestral denizens.

From the hotel, fly over the Nazca lines, take a trip on the hotel's private yacht to see the Ballestas Islands, a 4X4 excursion to the Paracas Natural Reserve, explore the 15th century Tambo Colorado architectural complex or tour a local vineyard producing Peru's famous Pisco spirit.

Sparkling like a jewel on Paracas Bay, the hotel offers 120 rooms and suites with elegant bamboo and wood furnishings.

Hotel Paracas’ superb facilities include a bar, lounge, two excellent restaurants, two large outdoor heated swimming pools and a luxury spa offering a variety of pampering treatments.

www.hotelparacasresort.com

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✶ BELMOND HOTEL MONASTERIO CUZCO Built as a monastery in 1592 and converted in 1995 into a beautiful hotel, the Monasterio is a haven of peace and elegance in the centre of Cuzco.

Belmond Hotel Monasterio is centred around a cloistered courtyard which features outdoor seating, a fountain, colourful flowers and a 300 year old cedar tree that offers a tranquil setting in which to relax.

The 124 rooms and split-level suites are located around flowery courtyards with some able to be enriched with oxygen to alleviate altitude sickness. All rooms are airconditioned with Wi-Fi access, an LCD TV and iPod dock.

On the food front, the Illariy and El Tupay restaurants serve distinctive Peruvian, International and Andino-Nikkei cuisines, while the Lobby Bar is the place to enjoy a the traditional Pisco Sour and the Deli Monasterio serves coffees and snacks.

There’s also a stunning outdoor swimming pool and business facilities. www.belmond.com/hotels/southamerica/peru/cusco/belmond-hotelmonasterio/

PERU

✶ JW MARRIOTT EL CONVENTO CUZCO This boutique hotel in Peru offers a truly unique blend of historic grandeur and modern comfort.

Housed in a restored 16th-century convent in the heart of Cusco, the hotel feature two exhibition halls with ancient Peruvian artefacts.

During your stay, find sanctuary in the sophisticated rooms and suites that offer a range of amenities including elegant marble bathrooms, deluxe bedding, mini-bars and an oxygen-enriched system to relieve altitude sickness.

Awake renewed in your heavenly abode before a day filled with replenishing spa treatments that feature centuries-old Incan healing regimens.

After a blissful pampering session, enjoy elegance and fresh ingredients at the extraordinary Qespi Restaurant & Bar, widely considered to be one of the best restaurants in Cusco. www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/cuzmcjw-marriott-el-convento-cusco/

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✶ PALACIO DEL INKA CUSCO Steeped in history, this storied mansion was originally built for the famous Spanish Conquistador, Francisco Pizarro, and is constructed on the ruins of an Inca Temple.

The hotel has a total of 203 rooms and suites, which have been tastefully designed with the style and history of the building in mind: expect rich yellow walls, dark wooden furniture and heavy burgundy curtains. All are equipped with modern amenities including Smart TVs and Ipod docks.

Palacio del Inka also features a number of facilities to help guests relax during their stay, including a spa, hydrotherapy pool and relaxation room. The hotel’s bar runs daily Pisco-making classes and the opulent restaurant overlooking the main courtyard serves Andean-international cuisine using local, organically sourced ingredients. www.palaciodelinkahotel.com

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PERU’S

BEST HOTELS

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SUPER

SPAS Best in Travel reveal the best places to be pampered in Peru

MYKONOS, GREECE PERU

THE SPA AT SWISSÔTEL LIMA

With an exclusive menu of body and facial treatments, The SPA at Swissôtel Lima offers to balance your senses in the harmony of your own energy.

Guests can enjoy an indoor and outdoor heated and interconnected pool, the spa’s signature hydro area including steam rooms and dry saunas, 13 comfortable treatment rooms, including 3 VIP rooms with luxury features.

After a blissful massage, recline in a Jacuzzi bubbling with the natural essence of juniper, sandalwood and ginseng for an invigorating start to your day.

Factor in impeccable, bilingual service and you have a proper Peruvian pampering palace. www.swissotel.com/hotels/lima/spafitness/treatments

Treatments to try include Deep Tissue Massages, Aromatherapy and Hot Stone Massages all designed to release muscle tension and melt away stress.

Inhale the fragrance of a meadow of Alpine flowers encapsulated in the spa’s essences and oils.

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HYPNÔZE SPA AT BELMOND PALACIO NAZARENAS Inspired by Inca and Andean culture, Hypnôze Spa – the only fully oxygenated spa in the world – offers a series of unique treatments, all using the healing properties of local herbs, Andean salts and coca leaves to improve guests’ physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

Exposed Inca ruins keep the interior as remarkable as the therapies on the acclaimed menu.

www.belmond.com/hotels/southamerica/peru/cusco/belmond-palacio-nazarenas/spa

MYKONOS, GREECE PERU

PALACIO DEL INKA SPA AT PALACIO DEL INKA, CUSCO A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL

Tapping into the ancient mysticism of the Andes, this sumptuous 500-square-meter spa unites tranquil water sounds with aromas and therapies that soothe the senses and harmonise the body and soul.

Custom wallpaper along with wood, marble, stone, and polished metal create a modern grey and brown palette, framing the peaceful retreat of Palacio del Inka Spa’s state-of-the-art facilities.

In the hydrotherapy pool, flowing water features unite with natural light and golden marble, creating a peaceful ambience for relaxing or experiencing the Thermal Circuit, providing Dry Sauna, Turkish Bath, Spanish showers with lighting effects and a heated whirlpool with jet streams and jacuzzi. Feel the healing of water combined with Palacio del Inka Spa’s treatments to indulge your senses. www.palaciodelinkahotel.com/spa-palacio

Starting in the relaxation room, colour changing LED ceiling lights, soft music, and three heated wooden chaise lounges balance guests’ brain frequencies.

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SUPER SPAS

THE SPA AT JW MARRIOTT LIMA Wherever you’re at in your Peruvian adventure, you are sure to want a soothing massage before or after your hiking and walking excursions.

Best In Travel recommends booking a relaxing body scrub, a smoothing body wrap and a deep tissue massage to lift your spirits and your skin.

Happily this serene high-rise hotel overlooking the Costa Verde’s barreling whitecaps and Larcomar’s resplendent boutiques boasts a fabulous spa that administers magic muscle melting massages, as well as beauty treatments in separate women’s and men’s lounges.

www.marriott.co.uk/hotels/travel/limdt-jw-marriotthotel-lima/

MYKONOS, GREECE PERU

UNNO SPA BY ARANWA SACRED VALLEY HOTEL & WELLNESS

Located in the Heart of Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness, Unno Spa offers an escape to the enigmatic world of the ancient wisdom of the Incas, with a varied list of exclusive treatments that unite the ancestral knowledge of the valley, alternative medicine and the latest in cosmetic technology.

All treatments have been specially designed to offer a life changing experience and use essential oils from native plants such as Muña and Coca, Camu-Camu and Maracuyá, Maize and Quinoa, among other 100% natural products to ensure a soothing experience from top to toe. www.aranwahotels.com/hotel-valle-sagrado/

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YAKU SPA AT COUNTRY CLUB LIMA HOTEL Let the empowering energy of water relieve your stress and achieve the well being and harmony that your body needs at Yaku Spaat Country Club Lima Hotel.

Services include deep-tissue massages, Swedish massages, massages and facials in addition to a variety of treatment therapies: think aromatherapy and reflexology. The spa is also equipped with a sauna and a steam room so expect to be fully relaxed before you even get going. www.yakuspa.com.pe

MYKONOS, GREECE PERU

ZEST SPA AT BELMOND MIRAFLORES PARK

Set along the Miraflores malecón, the Belmond Miraflores Park was the first hotel in Lima to take advantage of the city’s Pacific Ocean views when it opened in 1996 as the Miraflores Park Plaza Zest Spa is located on the 11th floor of the hotel, allowing spa goers to drink in the ocean views, before being being pampered using organic indigenous products – read chocolate, coffee and gold, as well as herbs – from the Peruvian Amazon.

You’ll also find the hotel’s infinity pool on the 11th floor, if you want to take a dip pre treatment. After your pampering session is up, recline in Zest Spa’s serene relaxation area and feel pure tranquility wash over you. www.belmond.com/hotels/southamerica/peru/lima/belmond-miraflores-park/spa

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P R E S I D E N T I A L

BELMOND MIRA

PRESIDENTIAL POOL SUITE

Step inside and experience some of Peru’s top presidential suites at the highest level of this sophisticated hotel.

The Presidential Pool suite boasts a private terrace with a plunge pool – the perfect place to soak up the panoramic ocean views. Inside, the bedroom is complemented by a separate living and dining area. Spread out on the king-sized bed, or unwind in the personal sauna. www.belmond.com/hotels/southamerica/peru/lima/belmond-miraflorespark/presidential-pool-suites

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JW MARRIOTT

PRESIDENTIAL SUITE

The elegant and spacious Presidential Suites at the JW Marriott Hotel Lima is the first and last word in luxury and most of those in between.

Each Presidential Suite offers a separate dining room and a separate living room, both large in size and boasting breathtaking views of the Lima Pacific Coast and Ocean. Decorated in a modern contemporary style, the suites even offer a grand baby piano. Meanwhile the luxurious marbled bathroom offers a separate shower and a whirlpool bathtub that accommodates two.

The JW Marriott Hotel Lima’s Presidential Suites offer many complimentary services: think exclusive access to the Executive Lounge which provides complimentary breakfast, snacks, teas, a light dinner, hors d’oeuvres, des-sert and, the icing on the cake, a private and complementary Pisco and wine tasting each evening. www.marriott.co.uk/hotels/hotel-rooms/limdtjw-marriott-hotel-lima/

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HOTEL LIMA

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THE WESTIN LI CONVENTION C

PRESIDENTIAL SUITE Exquisitely decorated with elegant wood accents, Peruvian textiles, and colourful art, the Presidential Suite at The Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center overlooks the cityscape with grace and style from the 30th floor.

With wide, airy spaces and state-of-the-art technology throughout, every element of this outstanding suite is designed for revitalising comfort.

Relax in the spacious living room that features plenty of plush seating and a 42-inch LCD TV with superb audio system. Entertaining guests or conducting business meetings is easy in the separate dining room with table that seats 12. A guest bathroom off of the living area adds to the suite’s versatility.

Meanwhile the private master bedroom features a sitting area with an armchair, chaise lounge, sumptuous king-size Heavenly® Bed, walk-in closet and a 37-inch LCD TV, while the roomy marble bathroom is a spa-like retreat with Jacuzzi tub, separate Heavenly® Shower, and dual vanities.

Suite guests also enjoy exclusive access to the elegantly modern Westin Executive Club Lounge: expect inspiring city views from the 29th floor and a complimentary continental breakfast every morning plus a happy hour with light snacks and drinks each evening. You’ll also receive complimentary pressing of one garment per stay. www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/ rooms/index

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IMA HOTEL & CENTER

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BELMOND SAN CUSCO

PRESIDENTIAL SUITE

This renowned Belmond property occupies a former monastery which dates from 1592 and is one of Cusco's most luxurious hotels. Colonial style accommodation is set around a courtyard and the interior features many fine works of religious art.

However for the ultimate indulgence, book the Belmond Hotel Monasterio’s Royal Suites because life is short, you work hard and you deserve it.

Adorned with rich wood furnishings and beautiful antique artwork, these ultra-luxurious suites feature a bedroom with a king size bed, separate living room, large marble bedroom, expansive private terrace with inspiring views of the courtyard and butler service. They even include an oxygen enrichment system to counter the effects of Cusco’s high altitude.

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BELMOND HOT CUSCO

ROYAL SUITE

Wondering where to stay in Cusco? Treat yourself to true indulgence by checking into a Royal Suite at this luxury hotel which is sure to make a lifelong impression.

The opulent Royal Suites are simply stunning, offering a separate living room and dining area, in addition to an expansive terrace. In fact the Royal Suites are so impressive that it would be easy to spend your entire time in Cusco holed up in your suite, but that would just be slobby.

Instead venture downstairs to eat in El Tupay restaurant which serves internationally- inspired Peruvian cuisine in an intimate setting, or to dine al fresco or in an enchanting courtyard setting at Illariy. Then revitalise tired limbs with a massage in the spa, soak in a bath drawn by a Bath Butler, take a tour of the hotel’s impressive art collection, or learn how to create Peruvian dishes in a cooking class.

It’s all so pretty and relaxing that it’s tempting not to venture out of the Belmond Hotel Monasterio, but there’s so to see and do in and around the vibrant city of Cusco: stroll down the cobbled streets, visit museums and art galleries or discover famous sights such as Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. www.belmond.com/hotels/southamerica/peru/cusco/belmond-hotel-monasterio

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PERU ON A PLATE

FORGET THE GLORIOUS INCA CITADEL OF MACHU PICCHU OR THE LISTED REMNANTS OF CHAN CHAN, THE LARGEST PRE-COLUMBIAN RUINS IN ALL OF THE AMERICAS. FREQUENT VISITORS TO PERU WOULD ARGUE THAT THE COUNTRY’S STRONGEST DRAW IS ACTUALLY ITS FABULOUS FOOD SCENE. Make no mistake: of Peru’s 3.1 million annual visitors, 40 per cent do gastronomic tourism. Maybe it’s time you did too….

Here’s a primer on the Peruvian cuisine you need to try.

Lomo Saltado Peru has almost 500 national dishes but Lomo Saltado is by far the most popular meat dish. Lomo Saltado which blends Peruvian influences and those of Chinese origin is beef, flame-cooked (flambee) in the wok mixing Peruvian native ingredients like amarillo chillies, tomatoes and red onions.

LOMO SALTADO © WALTER WUST

Visiting gourmands can chow down on ceviche, slow simmered stews, incredible Amazonian chocolate, tropical jungle fruits… the choice dazzles. Little wonder then that Peru has picked up the World Travel Awards trophy for ‘World’s Leading Culinary Destination’ for eight consecutive years.

Papa a la huancaina Potato topped with a creamy cheese sauce, this extremely popular Peruvian dish is a perennial hit at home parties and is on the menu at most comfort food–style restaurants.

CAUSA © YAYO LÓPEZ / PROMPERÚ

PAPA A LA HUANCAINA © JOSÉ CÁCERES / PROMPERÚ

PERU

Causa

Anticuchos These skewers of grilled, marinated meat are served everywhere in Peru. High-end restaurants offer them as appetisers, while street-cart vendors sell them slathered in a garlicky sauce for workers looking to fill a hole. .

ANTICUCHOS © JOSÉ CÁCERES / PROMPERÚ

Mash potatoes stuffed with seafood, vegetables or chicken. Causa is a Peruvian staple as is Papa rellena, a mashed potato filled with ground beef and then deep fried.

Quinoa breakfast A common way for Peruvians to start their day is with a mug of quinoa, cooked down to a thin porridge. In Lima, street vendors sell breakfast quinoa in the mornings, mixed with fruit and served hot or cold, depending on the weather.

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Cebiche

TIRADITO © PAUL WINCH-FURNESS

Peru's national dish, it is served with raw fish marinated in citrus juice. Red onion, chili pepper, sweet potato and corn are also part of this gastronomic adventure.

Tiradito A Japanese inflected ceviche consisting of thin slices fish served without onions, sometimes bathed in a creamy hot pepper sauce.

PACHAMANCA © JOSÉ CÁCERES / PROMPERÚ

CEBICHE © JOSÉ CÁCERES / PROMPERÚ

PERU

Pachamanca For special occasions and weddings, families will gather to make pachamanca – a mix of marinated meats, vegetables, chilis, cheese and fragrant herbs baked in hot rocks in the ground.

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Picarones In need of a sugar hit? Turn to these exotic hot, doughnut-like rings which are made from sweet potatoes and a large green squash called zapallo macre, spiced with aniseed and cinnamon before being drizzled with fig, passion fruit or sugar cane syrup.

Pisco Sour Pisco is the flagship beverage of Peru. It is a grape distilled spirit with seductive aroma and captivating taste.

One of the famous ways to prepare this beverage is "pisco sour". We celebrate its day on the first Saturday in February.

PISCO SOUR © MUSUK NOLTE / PROMPERÚ

PICARONES © JOSÉ CÁCERES / PROMPERÚ

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COCA TEA © MACO VARGAS / PROMPERÚ

PERU

Travelling to Cusco or another high-elevation destination in Peru? Chances are you’ll quickly be introduced to Coca tea, a herbal tea made by steeping raw leaves from the coca plant.

The leaves of the coca plant contain a tiny amount of alkaloids, which are the source of cocaine. However, the amount of coca alkaloid in the raw leaves is small. It is often used as a way for travellers to recover from altitude sickness.

Suspiro a la limeña Peru’s most famous dessert, whose name translates to "the sigh of the Lima woman”, consists of manjar blanco (caramel), egg yolks and sweet m-ringue. The dish is said to have been named by the Peruvian poet, Jose Galvez, after his wife Amparo Ayarez first made it for him.

SUSPIRO A LA LIMEÑA © JOSÉ CÁCERES / PROMPERÚ

Coca tea

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LAKE TITICACA , PUNO © ALEX BRYCE / PROMPERÚ

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