Best in Travel Magazine - Discover Peru - Explore Peruvian cuisine!

BESTINTRAVELMAGAZINE.COM DISCOVER | EXPLORE | VISIT PERU

DISCOVER PERU RAINBOW MOUNTAIN © ISTOCK

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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. Aer 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 transmied, 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.

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© 2018 Best In Travel Magazine

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SIX THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING PERU

PERUVIAN INGREDIENTS © JOSÉ DEL CASTILLO

PERU

Peruvian cuisine is a feast of senses 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.

Peru offers exquisite dishes to visitors of all budgets.

You will find a great variety of regional cuisines, from the traditional to the highly selective author’s cuisine.

Get ready to taste it!

Reasons why Peru has been awarded as the World´s Leading Culinary Destination for six consecutives years and recognized with three restaurants in The World's 50 Best Restaurants 2018: Central, Maido and Astrid & Gastón.

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SIX THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFOR 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.

Cash is king It’s a ‘cash only’ world in Peru which can take some geing used to if you’re coming from the UK where people use plastic to pay for absolutely everything from tube fares to food shopping.

Conversely in Peru, it’s almost impossible to use credit cards in small towns and villages while, even in big cities like Lima and Cuzco, a staggering amount of restaurants sport signs in their window saying ‘cash only’.

PERU

RE 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). Aer a couple of sips pf the laer, 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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PARAGLIDING, MIRAfLORES © MUSUK NOLTE

SIX THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFOR

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 seing 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.

PERU

RE 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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CEBICHE © ERNESTO BENAVIDES/PROMPERÚ

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CUISINE | PERU

PERUVIAN FLAVOR: THE CUISINE THAT IS CONQUERING THE WORLD Peruvian cuisine has achieved a strong position in the world, not only because it is an authentic delight for the most demanding palates, but also because of everything that surrounds the experience of enjoying each one of its most emblematic dishes, many of which are made with products and techniques whose roots go back thousands of years.

The success of Peru's cuisine has been reflected in the progressive increase in the demand for Peruvian restaurants, as well as in the growing presence of dishes from the South American country on the world's top menus. One of these is cebiche, the national dish of Peru, and which has become a favorite among gastronomic experts from almost every continent.

Peruvian cuisine, along with agriculture, has in addition positioned itself as one of the main business drivers at international level. The success and acceptance of this gastronomy is also reflected in international awards: Peru has four Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, in addition to being represented by three restaurants on the list of "The World's 50 Best Restaurants” and eleven restaurants among "Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants" in the last five years.

Peru has also been named the "World's Leading Culinary Destination" for seven consecutive years by the World Travel Awards, known as the "Oscars of Tourism". Individual awards, meanwhile, have not been long in coming: Peruvian chef Virgilio Martínez, considered one of the best in the world, was recognized at the "Chef's Choice Awards" in 2017.

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PERUVIAN LUNCH © LEONEL ORTIZ/PROMPERÚ

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THE ORIGIN OF THE BOOM Peruvian cuisine took off at the beginning of the new millennium, with an important milestone being the formation, in 2007, of the Peruvian Society of Gastronomy (Apega) and the organization of the first "Perú, mucho gusto" (today Mistura) food show in 2008. Both events, which served as the impetus for the Peruvian cooking boom, arose from a meeting between Gastón Acurio and a group of chefs, researchers and journalists. On that occasion, the need was recognized to develop a strategic plan to boost the country's gastronomy.

This milestone was followed by the opening of emblematic restaurants such as El Rincón Que No Conoces, La Rosa Náutica and El Señorío de Sulco.

Then came other icons of Peruvian cuisine such as the famous La Gloria and Astrid & Gastón, as well as El Comensal and Pantagruel, which focused their cuisine in the nineties towards the passionate diffusion of native ingredients from the Andean country.

The leadership of the chef and owner of Astrid & Gastón fell on fertile ground well disposed toward culinary entrepreneurship. Lima quickly became the epicenter of the gastronomic takeoff and is now considered "The gastronomic capital of Latin America," according to Bloomberg.

From his position as culinary leader, the chef and owner of a dozen gastronomic ventures in Peru and the world embraced new challenges. His vision was shared by a whole generation of cooks who, bolstered by the pillars of an ancient and mestizo cuisine, and by its flavors and traditions, recognized an unthinkable power in Peruvian cuisine: seeing it as a tool for social transformation.

CUISINE | PERU MITSUHARU TSUMURA

VIRGILIO MARTÍNEZ

JOSÉ DEL CASTILLO

ASTRID GUTSCHE

RAFAEL PIQUERAS

PERUVIAN LUNCH © LEONEL ORTIZ/PROMPERÚ

GASTÓN ACURIO

Promoting local products and emphasizing the origin of products from the biodiversity with which the Andean country has been blessed, their seasonality and nutritional qualities, as well as reassessing the roles of producers and fishermen in the food chain, were aspects that became paradigms that built the new Peruvian cuisine.

Chefs such as Rafael Osterling, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino and Virgilio Martínez contributed to this. The contribution of figures such as Teresa Ocampo and Marisa Guiulfo, leading-ladies of home cooking and great Peruvian banquets, was also invaluable; Javier Wong, considered the top ceviche chef; Humberto Sato, master of Creole and Nikkei (Peruvian-Japanese fusion) cuisine; and Cucho La Rosa, who played a fundamental role in the rescue of native products and is a tireless proponent of historical and traditional recipes.

As well as Rafael Piqueras, the first chef to bring Peruvian cuisine to avant-garde stages such as the Madrid Fusión gastronomic summit; José del Castillo, the driving force behind Creole flavors conceived in kitchens at home; Héctor Solís, the driving force behind quality northern products; Diego Muñoz, the creator of new Peruvian concepts in the world; Mitsuharu Tsumura, surprising us from the Nikkei sector, and many other chefs. There are many who have not only promoted taste, but also knowledge in various corners of the world: Flavio Solórzano and Isabel Álvarez, Renato Peralta, Marilú Madueño, Arturo Rubio, Astrid Gutsche, Carlos Testino, Sonia Bahamonde, James Berckemeyer and Jaime Pesaque, to name just a few.

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QUINOA WITH GLAZED PORK AND TERIYAKI SAUCE © SANDRO AGUILAR/PROMPERÚ

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A CUISINE WITHOUT BORDERS According to Gastón Acurio, the success of Peruvian cuisine lies in its creativity, innovation in fusion, and the love of its people. Thanks to a strong foreign influence, highlighting Chinese, Italian, Japanese, Jewish and Arab migrations, Peruvian cuisine was invaded by transcultural techniques and products. These have made Peru's food a fusion of unique flavors that have quickly conquered the most demanding palates of the planet.

"Today, Peruvian cuisine is celebrating an important moment because it is one of the few in the last 25 years that has become a universal cuisine, a global cuisine. You can go to a cosmopolitan city like Madrid and you can find a Peruvian cebiche hidden on the menu. In the 1990s in Spain there were at most ten Peruvian restaurants, and today there are more than 500.

And the reality is that there is nothing that can

stop us; I sincerely believe that in the next few years we could have around 50,000 Peruvian restaurants in the world.

Peruvian cuisine has also opened up paths for Peru to attract tourism, exports and even investments, conveying a strong country image.

As for the feeling of belonging, Peruvians today are proud of their gastronomy and have become ambassadors for it all over the world.

"There has been an exponential growth, not only in culinary sectors, but also in the growth of the hotel industry, retail trade, handicrafts, transport, and technology, among others, which contribute to giving our country a profitable positioning", concludes Acurio.

PERUVIAN INGREDIENTS © JOSÉ DEL CASTILLO/PROMPERÚ

CUISINE | PERU

GENERATION WITH A CAUSE Talking about Peruvian gastronomy doesn't only mean talking about food, but also about the feelings that engage each player, each participant who collects the products, prepares them, seasons them, and decorates them with love.

There's a feeling behind every action. And not only a feeling of flavor, but a social feeling that seeks to make gastronomy contribute to sustainable development and benefit the nation's neediest communities.

Also known as the fourth generation of chefs, the "Generation with a Cause" is made up of young chefs who seek to transcend gastronomic culture, including aspects of social responsibility through a "manifesto" that describes their commitment to society and the environment.

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PALMIRO OCAMPO

ARLETTE EULERT

MATÍAS CILLONIZ

The main actions mentioned in the manifesto are:

• Zero hunger, focused on eradicating poverty, which seeks to raise awareness of

• Denomination of Origin, Flagship Products, an action that seeks to identify

food insecurity and food waste. This will be done by creating a bridge between cooking and social work through soup kitchens in vulnerable areas, awareness campaigns in non-vulnerable sectors, mindful eating and nutrition and not wasting crops or raw materials.

endemic raw materials and generate a denomination of origin for the country, so that the international market can recognize products originating from Peru.

• Sustainable value chain, which focuses

importance of being an inclusive social group for the development of our cuisine and culture in society and the generation of awareness regarding social responsibility in the community.

on traceability and interdisciplinary thinking from people, knowing the producers, their strengths and needs. The responsibility of knowing the product, its origin, its mode of production, its condition as regards the environment before using and distributing it.

• Education and decent work for the present day, through recognition of the

CUISINE | PERU

REBECA DELGADO

IGNACIO BARRIOS

• Guardians of tradition, conservation of traditional recipes, with a view to innovation, the protection of roots, customs, ancestral recipes, and the revaluation of chefs, maintaining the country's age-old culinary tradition.

FRANCESCO DE SANCTIS

"The fourth generation of chefs" is represented by around forty young men and women from different parts of Peru who have been working on various projects to strengthen gastronomy, with sustainability and respect for culinary tradition as a banner, and with a view to making Peru the top gastronomic destination in the world by 2021.

The main promoters of this movement are: Palmiro Ocampo, Arlette Eulert, Matías Cilloniz, Rebeca Delgado, Ignacio Barrios, and Francesco de Sanctis, among others.

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ANTICUCHO © JOSÉ CÁCERES

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SOME TRADITIONAL DISHES YOU HAVE TO TRY IN PERU! ANTICUCHO

STUFFED ROCOTO Originating in Arequipa, Peru’s second largest city, this stuffed pepper is a favorite throughout the country. What resembles an ordinary red bell pepper is actually a fiery rocoto chili (about 10 times as hot as a jalapeño when raw, but tamer when cooked), stuffed with a mixture of spiced, sautéed ground beef, onions, garlic, olives, raisins, and chopped hardboiled egg. It’s all topped with queso fresco and baked. The creamy, cheesiness of the melted queso helps temper the pepper’s heat for a flavorful dish of contrasts.

STUFFED ROCOTO © JOSÉ CÁCERES

Resembling shish kebabs, these skewers of grilled, marinated meat are served everywhere from streetcart vendors to upscale restaurants.

Delicious as a snack or appetizer, anticuchos can be made with variety of meats — from filet mignon to rib eye. But the most traditional ones use beef hearts, marinated in vinegar, cumin, ají, and garlic, and grilled over charcoal. These earthy, flavorful morsels are hard to beat as street food. A flavour that you´ll never forget.

PACHAMANCA © JOSÉ CÁCERES

CUISINE | PERU

PACHAMANCA

LOMO SALTADO © ISTOCK

Named for the Quechua words, pacha (earth) and manca (oven), this prized Peruvian party dish dates to pre-Columbian times and pays homage to the Inca goddess Pachamama, or Mother Earth.

Layers of potatoes, meats (any combination of chicken, pork, beef, lamb, and goat), corn on the

cob, and herbs, all covered with moist plantain leaves, are cooked for several hours over fireheated stones buried in a pit in the ground. The meats are pre-marinated in a spice-and-herb mixture featuring huacatay (Peruvian black mint).

The result is a primordial comfort-food dish of smoky fall-off-the-bone meat and delectably charred potatoes and corn, flavored by the distinctive earthy spices. Consider yourself lucky if you’re invited to a backyard pachamanca celebration.

LOMO SALTADO A beloved soy sauce-flavored beef stir fry tossed in a wok with fried potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, and onions, lomo saltado is typically served over white rice. This is Chinese-Peruvian fusion at its best, thanks to the boatloads of Chinese immigrants who arrived in Peru more than a century ago and contributed their culinary techniques and ingredients to the local cuisine.

It will surely make your mouth water!

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CEBICHE

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CEBICHE It is the national dish, it is served with raw ďŹ sh marinated in citrus juice. Red onion, chili pepper, sweet potato and corn are also part of this gastronomic adventure.

PISCO © MUSUK NOLTE

SUSPIRO A LA LIMEÑA © JOSÉ CÁCERES

CUISINE | PERU

PISCO

SUSPIRO A LA LIMEÑA

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

It is a scrumptious dessert made with manjar blanco (caramel), egg yolks and meringue made from port wine. It is a dessert at the heart of the traditional Lima family in the early twentieth century.

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PICARONES © JOSÉ CÁCERES

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PICARONES Their origin was in Lima during the viceroyalty. It is a type of doughnut brought to the colonies by Spanish conquistadors. Its principal ingredients are squash and sweet potato. It is served in a doughnut form and covered with syrup, made from chancaca (solidified molasses).

CAUSA RELLENA Resembling a potato casserole, it is based on mashed yellow potatoes flavored with lime and spicy ají amarillo (a Peruvian chili pepper). The potato base is layered with tuna, salmon, or chicken salad, followed by layers of avocado, hardboiled eggs, and sometimes olives, topped with still more potato mash. There are varieties of causa, but it’s always served cold.

CAUSA RELLENA © JOSÉ CÁCERES

POLLO A LA BRASA © JOSÉ CÁCERES

CUISINE | PERU

POLLO A LA BRASA Many countries serve roasted chicken. But this Peruvian version is a knockout, thanks to an earthy marinade of soy sauce, chili paste, garlic, herbs, and spices. The bird is spit-roasted until the skin is delectably bronzed and crispy and served with tangy green huacatay (Peruvian black mint) dipping sauce, a creamy blend of the mint with lime juice, garlic, chili, and mayonnaise. It’s traditionally accompanied with fried yucca, a bland tuber that serves as a mild counterpoint to the spicy sauce.

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SUPER FOODS FROM PERU: CAT’S CLAW, GOLDENBERRIES, AVOCADO, MACA, CHIA, QUINOA, BLUEBERRIES, CAMU CAMU AND POMEGRANATE.

PERU, THE WORLD’S SUPER PANTRY Healthy, delicious and nutritious are some of the main qualities of the Super Foods from Peru. They contribute to people’s health and wellness due their high content of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber and energy.

The fertility of Peru’s soil, combined with the great variety of ecological floors and climates in the country, plus its agro-industrial technology have made Peru a key exporter of natural products with super capabilities. These superfoods have been the focus of countless scientific studies seeking to understand the benefits they bring to people.

PERU, OUTSTANDING FOODS THAT CONQUER THE WORLD Discover more about Super Foods from Peru at: www.superfoods-peru.pe

BLUEBERRIES © ISTOCK

FRUITS

FOODS PERU

BLUEBERRIES study using lyophilized blueberry powder in postmenopausal women indicated that it could reduce blood pressure due, in part, to stimulating nitric oxide.

BANANA © GISELLA BENAVIDES

Blueberries have abundant natural pigments (anthocyanins and carotenoids) with antioxidant action. They contain bioflavonoids and vitamin A, which can contribute to improving night vision and preventing certain visual alterations. In addition, a

BANANA The potassium content of a banana provides part of the daily consumption needs to lower the risk of high blood pressure, while the vitamin B6 in a banana helps the body produce hemoglobin and keep blood glucose in normal ranges.

Athletes consume bananas after sports practice, because their potassium content helps recover electrolytes and prevent cramps.

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GRAPES © SANDRO AGUILAR

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GRAPES the size of a cup (151g) contains 18% of daily vitamin K requirements.

Peru is the sixth largest exporter of grapes in the world. Its main destinations are the United States, the Netherlands, Hong Kong and the United Kingdom.

POMEGRANATE © ISTOCK

Grapes have a great antioxidant power which helps fight free radicals, the main cause of skin aging. They stand out for their vitamin K content, which is needed for blood coagulation. Some studies suggest that grapes help maintain strong bones in older adults. A serving of grapes about

POMEGRANATE Pomegranate can help to reduce cholesterol levels and prevent heart disease.

Its use has been studied in the prevention of various types of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It can also

have benefits for fighting Alzheimer's.

It can be consumed in many different ways: as dried fruit, nectar, fruit preserve, marmalade, yogurt, ice cream and extract.

PASSION FRUIT

SOURSOP © ISTOCK

PASSION FRUIT © SANDRO AGUILAR

This fruit has antioxidant properties and is a good source of vitamins and minerals. Its flavonoids and phytopathogenic effects have led passion fruit to be used in traditional medicine and it is recommended for the treatment of insomnia and anxiety.

Its efficacy in addressing neurological symptoms and hot flashes associated with the menopause has been reported in some studies.

SOURSOP Soursop is rich in vitamins C, B1, and B2 and minerals (magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and iron) that strengthen the body. Its leaves, seeds, root and fruit are traditionally used for their various health benefits. Studies have shown its potential to reduce high blood pressure, against inflammatory conditions, its hepatoprotective properties, and so on. It also has a high fiber content, which contributes to proper functioning

of intestinal transit, while its thiamine (vitamin B1) content helps the body's cells convert carbohydrates into energy and plays a role in muscle contraction and driving nervous signals.

Moreover, vitamin B2 is important for the growth and production of red blood cells.

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FRUITS

FOODS PERU

LUCUMA © VYAYO LÓPEZ

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LUCUMA functioning of the nervous system.

Lucuma provides carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals to the diet. It contains beta-carotene, an antioxidant, and is also used to prevent certain types of cancer and heart conditions.

CAMU CAMU © JOSÉ CÁCERES

Lucuma is a source of fiber, potassium, vitamin B3 and carotenoids. It is an extraordinary natural energy booster that provides energy for our regular daily activities. It is also rich in niacin (vitamin B3), which stimulates the proper

CAMU CAMU Camu Camu is a native species from the Peruvian Jungle, it is considered to be a superfood because it has many benefits: it strengthens the immune system, the skin and the eyes. It provides a large amount of vitamin C, ten times more than orange juice. This fruit promotes collagen growth for proper formation of bones, teeth, skin, cartilage,

ligaments, tendons, and even blood vessels.

It is also an antioxidant, preventing possible negative effects. Another benefit of the camu camu is the detoxification of the liver, helping to eliminate the toxins and fat that accumulate in this organ.

GOLDENBERRY © JOSÉ CÁCERES

FRUITS

FOODS PERU

GOLDENBERRY shown that goldenberry has properties related to cholesterol reduction in patients with hypercholesterolemia.

It is helpful in the treatment of asthma, sinusitis, and other allergies. Goldenberries also can reduce the risk of stomach and intestinal cancer.

CHERIMOYA © ISTOCK

It is considered one of the best foods produced in Peru in terms of health benefits. Its antioxidants, vitamins A and C, phosphorus and potassium content can strengthen the immune system. Its antioxidants help slow cellular aging and improve cardiovascular functions. Other studies have

CHERIMOYA Cherimoya contains small amounts of vitamins, such as B1, B2, and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and iron, and is also a significant source of vitamins B6 and C and potassium, with the latter involved in collagen synthesis and forming of bones and teeth.

It provides high energy to the diet due to its high carbohydrate content and it is also a powerful antioxidant that protects our cells from oxidation.

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TANGERINE © ISTOCK

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TANGERINE associated with the reduction of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and it provides nutrients and minerals such as potassium, which lowers blood pressure.

In Peru 400,000 tons of mandarin oranges grow annually and this country is the second largest producer in South America.

MANGOES © MANCHAMANTELES

Tangerines help prevent colds, heal wounds, form scar tissue, and improve iron absorption. Its essential oil has antimicrobial properties that prevent wounds from becoming infected and protects them from viruses, fungi and bacteria. Studies suggest that longterm consumption of mandarin juice may be

MANGOES Mangoes are very appreciated for their sweet and intense flavor and fleshy and soft texture, they are also very rich in vitamins A and C, minerals, fibers, phytochemicals and antioxidants, and provide only low amounts of fat and sodium.

They contain beta-carotene, used to prevent

asthma symptoms and may be effective against certain types of cancer. Their fiber and potassium mitigate the risk of heart disease, and their vitamin A helps keep the skin healthy. Moreover, their nutrients protect the health of the eyes and improve digestion.

QUINOA © ISTOCK

GRAINS

FOODS PERU

QUINOA and phosphorus. Its high content in total dietary fiber (7 grams per 100 grams of raw quinoa) induces a feeling of satiety. This cereal also absorbs water and stays longer in the stomach.

KANIWA © YAYO LÓPEZ

Due to its rich nutrient content, quinoa is considered a very complete food. It has been included by NASA in astronaut diets for long-term space travel. Quinoa provides proteins, unsaturated fatty acids, minerals (calcium, iron and magnesium), vitamins (E, B1, B2 and niacin)

KANIWA Kaniwa is rich in proteins and fiber with strong antioxidant capacities due to its content of phenolic compounds. It is a high protein product

and can contribute to preserving or increasing muscle mass. Its flour is also gluten free, making it suitable for celiac diets.

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CHIA © YAYO LÓPEZ

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CHIA cholesterol levels and boosts the immune system.

In addition, it is a source of calcium, which contributes to the normal functioning of the muscles, as well as iron, for the normal transport of oxygen in the body and the normal formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin.

SACHA INCHI © YAYO LÓPEZ

Chia is an excellent source of fiber and omega-3, and it does not contain gluten in its chemical composition so it is ideal for people with celiac disease. It also contains calcium, iron, phosphorus, vitamin A, potassium, magnesium, niacin and zinc, as well as soluble fibers and natural antioxidants. Chia helps control

SACHA INCHI Sacha inchi is an oleaginous plant originally from the Peruvian Amazon and it is known as the “Inca peanut” due to its importance during their empire. Its seeds contain one of the most important sources of omega3, -6 and -9 in the world, and contain better balanced polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acids than fish.

Sacha inchi oil is highly valued for its content of essential fatty acids.

This seed provides multiple benefits to the body: its content of essential oils can help counteract irritable bowel problems, as they are essential to maintain intestinal permeability. It regulates arterial pressure, preventing arterial thrombosis and myocardial infarction.

KIWICHA Š MACO VARGAS

GRAINS

FOODS | PERU

KIWICHA particularly lysine. It is used for nutrition in pregnant women and children. Lysine helps the body absorb calcium and plays an important role in the formation of collagen, an important substance for bones and connective tissues including skin, tendons and cartilage.

GIANT CORN Š MANCHAMANTELES

High in protein, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc and other nutrients, Kiwicha helps build normal bones and preserve teeth, and contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin.

Kiwicha is a source of essential amino acids,

GIANT CORN Giant corn is a highly energetic cereal that is very rich in digestible nutrients. It is a source of proteins and minerals such as calcium, iron and phosphorus. It improves the function of the cardiovascular system due to its content of polyunsaturated fat.

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PURPLE CORN © MANCHAMANTELES

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PURPLE CORN It has acquired great importance due its high content of antioxidants, in particular anthocyanins, which have shown in experimental studies to help lower blood pressure in people

suffering from hypertension and increase the total antioxidant capacity of the blood. It is traditionally used as a depurative, hypotensive, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.

CAT'S CLAW © YAYO LÓPEZ

HERBS

FOODS | PERU

Native to Peru’s virgin rainforests, this medicinal vine is known as the “Amazonian miracle of herbal medicine.” It is used to treat illnesses that attack the immune system, like cancer or HIV. The tribes of the Amazon hold this herb sacred because of its great contribution to medicine.

Cat’s claw is used to combat articular pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties, and it is also used as a detoxifier to treat cases of colitis, gastritis, ulcers and hemorrhoids.

ANDEAN MINT© YAYO LÓPEZ

CAT’S CLAW

ANDEAN MINT (MUÑA) Muña is consumed typically as a tea, and used as an analgesic, antispasmodic, antiseptic, against rheumatism, and for respiratory diseases. Part of its medicinal properties may be attributed to its high antioxidant content. In addition, it is popularly used against altitude sickness in mountain areas and for stomach problems such as flatulence.

It is a source of calcium and phosphorus, which contribute to having strong bones and normal blood, and it prevents osteoporosis.

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NATIVE POTATOES © MAURICIO GIL

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NATIVE POTATOES and folate.

Native potatoes are potential sources of antioxidants mediated by the composition of antioxidant metabolites, such as anthocyanins and polyphenols, in general.

MACA © YAYO LÓPEZ

They are a very versatile food and a source of carbohydrates. Their protein content relative to their dry weight is similar to that of cereals, and higher compared to other roots and tubers. They also contain vitamins C, B1, B3, B6, and minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron

MACA Maca is a native herbaceous plant from the Andes of Peru that offers multiple health benefits. Due to its high nutritional and medicinal value. The consumption of maca is linked to a low body mass index and low blood pressure, because of its high content of potassium, an important nutrient to mitigate risk of high blood pressure.

One study has shown that maca reduces depression and anxiety, and a self-perception

survey showed that it acted as an energizer. Maca is traditionally used to restore mental and physical balance, provide vitality and improve endurance in athletes.

Another major benefit is its ability to regulate and stimulate the endocrine system, which produces the hormones needed for bodily and metabolic functions like fertility, sexual arousal, digestion, the brain and the nervous system.

SWEET POTATOES keeps cholesterol from building up in arteries.

They are also a major source of vitamin A, B6 and potassium. They are good for the skin and mucous membranes, and are an important factor in antiaging, preventing wrinkles and stimulating hair and nail growth.

YACON © YAYO LÓPEZ

Sweet potatoes contain beta carotene, the pigment responsible for their orange hue. This chemical compound protects people’s eyes from ultraviolet radiation, preventing blindness and improving vision at night. Another virtue of this super food is its fiber, which flushes out fats and

YACON Yacon is highly valued due to its high content of insulin, dietary fiber that helps the organism metabolize glucose and diminish cholesterol rates, which is excellent for hypocaloric diets and for diabetic patients.

This food has a great potential in preventive medicine, since it was demonstrated that the use of aqueous extract of yacon tubers can increase ‘good’ cholesterol (HDL, high density lipoprotein),

and reduce total cholesterol, triglycerides and other lipoproteins. Its studied benefits include helping with weight loss and aiding in the regulation of intestinal transit thanks to its high content of FOS.

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TUBERS & ROOTS

SWEET POTATOES © MACO VARGAS

FOODS | PERU

OLIVES © ISTOCK

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OLIVES smaller amounts of iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and iodine. Their monounsaturated fats help prevent heart disease. In addition, omega-3 and omega-6 are essential oils to help regulate the body’s triglycerides.

ASPARAGUS © MACO VARGAS

Olives contain large quantities of omega-3 and omega-6, essential fatty acids, which are beneficial. They are a source of vitamin A, antioxidants, including acteosides, hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol and phenyl propionic acid.

Olives also provide a large amount of sodium and

ASPARAGUS Asparagus helps break down carcinogens in the body because it contains the compound glutathione. The natural antioxidant content of this vegetable slows the aging process and prevents decline in brain function. It also serves to keep the urinary system flowing well, prevent premature births, and regulate the formation of nerve cells in embryos and fetuses.

This superfood prevents colon cancer, blocks the growth of leukemia cells and regulates constipation.

Peru is the leading exporter of asparagus worldwide and reaches 80 countries around the world.

CAPSICUM AND CHILI PEPPERS © JIMENA AGOIS

VEGETABLES

FOODS | PERU

CAPSICUM AND CHILI PEPPERS Peru is one of the centers of origin of the capsicum and boasts over 50 varieties of chili peppers. These peppers are very rich in nutrients that are essential to human health, and they also add exquisite flavor and depth to our already celebrated cuisine. Today more people around the globe are craving spicy food, so Peru aims to promote these products and set itself up as a powerhouse for healthy, biodiverse and sustainable produce.

Their principal health benefits include high levels of vitamins A, C, K and B6, and they are also a source of potassium and capsaicin, which is a component present in the Capsicum family (genre of angiosperm plants) that gives the hot spicy

flavor and acts as an analgesic and anticoagulant, ideal for people at risk of cardiovascular disease.

The most commercial type on the coast is Yellow pepper (Capsicum baccatum) and Panca pepper, while in the highland rainforest it is the Andean chili pepper (Capsicum pubescens) which stands out.

Its consumption in any of its types offers a wide variety of nutrients. According to some research, eating chili pepper regularly increases life expectancy, soothes pain and reduces appetite.

Furthermore, Peruvian researchers point to the potential of Andean chili pepper in the prevention of stomach ulcers and cancer.

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ARTICHOKE © SERGIO URDAY

AVOCADOS WITH QUINOA © ISTOCK

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AVOCADO

ARTICHOKE

Avocado contains potassium, and is a source of energy and healthy fats. Its magnesium content promotes the functioning of the nervous and muscular systems, and helps to regulate blood glucose levels. It is also important for the immune system. It has folic acid (vitamin B9) prevents malformations during pregnancy and lactation, and its omega-3 content helps protect the cardiovascular system.

Peru is the world’s second largest exporting country and their world demand grows 5% each year.

Artichokes are high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. These nutrients prevent many health problems such as tumors, colon cancer, prostate cancer and cardiovascular issues. Their leaves are also rich in magnesium, sterols and potassium.

These nutrients restore liver cells, repair fatty liver, and rid the body of toxic substances.

This food contains cynarine, an organic compound that stimulates the liver and reduces cholesterol, triglycerides, diabetes and inflammation.

Peru has become the world’s second largest exporter of processed artichokes and the leading supplier in the North American market.

Oily fish has a high biological value and are rich in protein. It provides proteins similar to meat, does not contain carbohydrates (starches and sugars), is rich in vitamins A, C and B and provides calcium, phosphorus, and potassium.

Its content of iron, magnesium and zinc helps prevent anemia and contributes to children’s growth and development. Its high protein value helps muscle tissues regenerate faster, and strengthens tendons and ligaments.

It is also rich in lysine, an essential amino acid for child growth, as well as vitamin D, to prevent rickets.

In addition, it contains omega-3 and -6, essential fats that our body does not produce and that serve to develop the brain, promote nervous interconnection, improve vision, maintain skin in healthy conditions, prevent diseases such as Alzheimer's and depression and, especially, prevent heart disease associated with high cholesterol. It is a superfood that cleans the arteries of the body, dissolving and eliminating cholesterol and triglycerides. It also helps maintain proper blood clotting and increase the reproduction of red blood cells, which reduces the possibility of heart attacks and strokes.

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OILY FISH

TROUT © JUAN ARAGÓN

FOODS | PERU

TUNA© JUAN ARAGÓN

SHRIMP © ISTOCK

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SHRIMP Shrimp stands out for its high content of proteins and omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B3 (niacin), used to process energy from proteins, carbohydrates and fats and to balance glucose. Its B9 and B12 vitamins help with gestation and mature red blood cells, respectively. It also provides vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, which slows down skin ageing, and prevents carcinogenic diseases. It provides magnesium, a macronutrient that strengthens the bone system and protects the walls of blood vessels; selenium, which serves to stimulate the immune system; and iron, which prevents and treats anemia.

MAHI MAHI With white and highly nutritious flesh, this fish lives over 400 miles offshore and is native to tropical and subtropical waters. In Peru, mahimahi is fished when it reaches its largest size: 85 cm on average. Its meat is white and pleasant to taste, and its texture is firm, which makes it ideal for numerous cooking preparations.

Despite its white flesh, it is also very rich in omega 3, so its frequent consumption helps to combat bad cholesterol, triglycerides, high blood pressure and inflammations such as arthritis.

ANCHOVY © MACO VARGAS

OILY FISH

FOODS | PERU

ANCHOVY, TUNA AND TROUT Anchovy strengthens the immune system, making it less prone to infectious diseases. It is ideal for pregnant women, since it improves the baby’s development and keeps it strong during pregnancy.

Tuna reduces coronary risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, overweight or obesity.

On the other hand, Trout is recognized for its

good taste and important nutritional properties, thanks to its low salt content, it is ideal to fight high blood pressure. In addition, its high protein value strengthens and accelerates muscle growth.

Its rich omega-3 content contributes to brain development, and prevents heart and mental diseases.

MAHI MAHI © JUAN ARAGÓN

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COCOA © MACO VARGAS

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COCOA Peru has the highest genetic biodiversity of cocoa in the world. Its Amazon hosts six of the ten genetic varieties of cocoa that exist. In addition, Peru is classified by the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) as the third producer and exporter of cocoa in Latin America, after Brazil and Ecuador respectively.

It contains resveratrol and flavonoids such as epicatechin of antioxidant properties.

Cocoa helps the body release endorphins and reduce stress, and it leads to feelings of euphoria.

Medical studies have also proved that consuming chocolate can help improve your mood, making you feel calmer and more content.

Cocoa contains phytosterols (especially betasitosterol) that block the absorption of dietary cholesterol. It also contains polyphenols, antioxidants that prevent atherosclerotic processes. Chocolate is a highly energetic or highcalorie food, so it is recommended in situations that require a concentrated energy intake, as in the case of athletes.

COCOA © ISTOCK

COCOA

FOODS | PERU

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PISCO | PERU

To understand its fascinating origin it is necessary to go back several centuries, because although the Spaniards brought the raw material to Peru, it was the work, ingenuity and dedication of the Peruvians that paved the way for the creation of this distilled grape liquor.

PISCO © MUSUK NOLTE/ PROMPERÚ

Created from the fusion of vines brought from Europe, the fertility of the lands of the southern coast of Peru and the production techniques, Pisco is Peruvian pride distilled into a drink. A product with an important historical legacy, bringing the gastronomic world a unique grape flavor that captivates the most demanding palates.

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VINEYARD IN PISCO, ICA © MUSUK NOLTE/ PROMPERÚ

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A DISTILLATE WITH HISTORY With the arrival of the Spanish in 1532, products such as figs, dates, olive oil and grapes also arrived. During this period of conquest, the new churches needed wine to give mass, which is when the wine brought from Europe began to be scarce and wine production began on Peruvian soil.

But how did pisco start being distilled? When the grapes arrived in Peru, the winemaking process began. However, its quality was so good that the Spaniards decided to sell it. The success of Peruvian wine in Spain was such that merchants living in Spain began to complain because their sales had decreased dramatically.

An export restriction was negotiated through

Philip II and was accepted in 1613. Faced with this, coastal producers intensified the production of Pisco, a drink that was starting to become popular.

There is no consensus on the exact location where distilled grape liquor was first produced in Peru. According to several historians, the origin was probably in the Pisco Valley or in Ica, places with historical documentation that provide proof of the great amounts produced in both areas.

There is no doubt that Peru was the main pisco producer in South America in the 16th and 17th centuries.

VINEYARD IN PISCO, ICA © LEONEL ORTIZ/PROMPERÚ

PISCO | PERU

WHY "PISCO"?

The name Pisco comes from the valley and the city, which are located in the south of Peru. It could also be the translation of the term "Pisscu", which means bird in Quechua. A variety of birds inhabits the southern port city, including Andean flamingos, Inca terns, and condors, among others.

Grape is the product used for the preparation of this national drink, a fruit harvested in the in the valleys of the Peruvian coast. It has been made for approximately 400 years and Peru is one of the countries in the world that continues to use stills, where the liquid is distilled through evaporation, thus maintaining the quality of the grape. The procedure does not turn the drink into liquor; on the contrary, it is a pure distillate, with juice from the fermented vine.

There are three types of pisco, which can be distinguished by their taste.

• Pure Pisco: Obtained from a single distillation of fresh musts, completely fermented and of a single variety of pisco grape.

• Mosto Verde Pisco: Its distillation is obtained from the fresh musts of pisco grapes with interrupted fermentation.

• Acholado Pisco: A blend obtained from the must of several varieties of grapes.

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VINEYARD © RAÚL GARCÍA

VINEYARD IN ICA © MUSUK NOLTE

GOLDENBERRY PISCO COCKTAIL © MUSUK NOLTE/PROMPERÚ

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PISCO: FROM PERU TO THE WORLD Pisco is not only the national drink of Peru, but also one of the best-known elements of Peruvian gastronomy. The versatility of this drink, which was created in the 17th century but is constantly reinventing itself, gives it tradition and modernity, characteristics that combine perfectly to give way to the new identity of pisco: ‘Pisco: Spirit of Peru', a brand that represents this Peruvian drink internationally.

The Spirit of Peru slogan transmits two meanings. Firstly, it transmits the feelings of a country towards its national drink, the "spirit" of Peru; and secondly, it alludes to the fact that pisco is included within the spirits drink category.

PISCO COCKTAIL © RICARDO ZAMUDIO/PROMPERÚ

PISCO | PERU

DID YOU KNOW? • Peru's national drink has won countless prizes in the world's most important liquor and spirit competitions.

• Pisco is a fine grape liquor that requires between 13 and 15 pounds to obtain one liter (approximately one quart) and does not include any ingredients other than the recently fermented must of pisco grapes.

• It is a very versatile distillate. Pisco offers infinite possibilities with regard to sensations, aromas and flavors in cocktails, an industry that always seeks to renew its products and make them more sophisticate to attract people. Each variety of Pisco and its nuances have different characteristics, with aromatic, fruity, floral, citrus or fresh herb notes.

Discover more about Pisco and our native products at: https://peru.info/en-us/gastronomy/natives-products

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PERUVIAN COFFEE © SANDRO AGUILAR/PROMPERÚ

COFFEE | PERU

OUTSTANDING COFFEES THAT DELIGHT THE WORLD When you taste a cup of Peruvian coffee, you are transported to its place of origin, to a magical place where hundreds of families turn their passion for coffee into a ritual of life.

The love devoted to each coffee bean has contributed significantly to the consolidation of its image of excellence.

Today, Peruvian coffee is considered to be one of the best in the world. This assertion is supported by numerous awards in the most specialized markets of North America and Europe, and which highlight its diversity in flavors and unique organoleptic characteristics.

Another surprising fact is that, nowadays, Peru is the third country in coffee organic production worldwide, thanks to its incomparable flavor and compliance with sustainability standards that give it a competitive advantage in the specialty coffee market. As if that weren't enough, it has become the leading Peruvian export.

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COFFEE CHERRIES © SANDRO AGUILAR/PROMPERÚ

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A JOURNEY ACROSS PERU, THROUGH ITS COFFEE Peru produces Arabica coffee with different taste, aroma and acidity profiles, with the Typica, Caturra and Bourbon varieties standing out among these. Geisha coffee has also gained more prominence in recent years because of its export potential, this being due to its high quality and distinctive profile, with an aroma of jasmine, orange blossom and floral tones.

Due to its privileged ecosystem, Peru has a diversity of coffee regions, the main ones including the following: Amazonas, Ayacucho, Cajamarca, Cusco, Huánuco, Junín, Pasco, Piura, Puno and San Martín, regions where you can find an infinity of flavors ranging from fruity, almond, hazelnut, honey and floral tones to chocolate notes. A range of sensations that have won over the most demanding coffee lovers.

The geographical diversity of Peru, the combination of climate, land and altitude allows a favorable setting for the cultivation of coffee in Peru. 75% of the plantations are more than 3000 feet above sea level and 90% of the coffee grows in the shade, giving rise to unique and highly distinct flavors.

COFFEE | PERU

TRACEABILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY The Rainforest Alliance Certified, UTZ Certified, Bird Friendly, C.A.F.E Practices, Fair Trade International and 4C stand out as sustainability certifications that seek production conditions with social justice, good farming practices, sustainable development for participants in the value chain, fair trade and respect for the environment.

COFFEE BIRD CHIRIGÜE AZAFRANADO © HEINZ PLENGE/PROMPERÚ

Traceability plays a fundamental role in guaranteeing the quality of the coffee because it allows us to know the origin of each batch and the treatment that the beans have received in harvesting, milling, processing, packaging, storage and distribution.

Peruvian producers have different certifications that guarantee sustainability throughout the entire value chain and compliance with the criteria required by the most demanding markets.

These include organic certifications for agricultural products, such as the USDA Organic for export to the United States. Its equivalent in Europe is the EU Organic Bio and JAS (Japanese Agricultural Standards) for the Japanese market.

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WOMEN IN COFFEE PLANTATION © HEINZ PLEGE / PROMPERÚ

Peru also promotes gender equality in the coffee industry, empowering women's organizational capacity and leadership in almost half of the producing areas.

Furthermore, since 2018 Peru has had a National Plan of Action for Peruvian Coffee (PNA Café), an

initiative led by the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Coffee Council that aims to raise social, economic, and environmental performance in the industry and help improve the producers' way of life.

JUAN HEREDIA, COFFEE GROWER © ESTHER VARGAS

COFFEE | PERU

STORIES BEHIND QUALITY: JUAN HEREDIA SÁNCHEZ Peru is increasingly known for its achievements in various specialized events, such as AVPA and International Coffee Tasting. Particularly prominent in the Cup of Excellence contest (Alliance for Coffee Excellence), an event of international importance that seeks to recognize the world's premium coffees.

In 2017, a producer from Cajamarca, Juan Heredia Sánchez, was the winner of the first edition of the Cup of Excellence held in Peru, achieving 92.25 cupping points for his caturra bourbon variety coffee. To continue offering high quality coffee, Juan reinvested the proceeds of the award in improvements to his farm, known as La Flor del Norte, and located in Huabal in the province of Jaén (Cajamarca).

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DWIGHT AGUILAR, COFFEE GROWER © ENRIQUE NORDT/PROMPERÚ

ESPERANZA DIONISIO, COFFEE GROWER © MÓNICA SUÁREZ GALINDO/PNUD PERÚ

DWIGHT AGUILAR © ENRIQUE NORDT/PROMPERÚ

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STORIES BEHIND QUALITY: DWIGHT AGUILAR MACIAS

STORIES BEHIND QUALITY: ESPERANZA DIONISIO

Dwight Aguilar Macias harvests coffee on his Nueva Alianza family farm in the Santa Teresa district of La Convención province (Cusco). This young man, who dreamed of becoming an agricultural engineer, won first place in the 2018 Cup of Excellence Competition. His Geisha variety coffee, which is caramelized, smooth, and has aromas of dried fruit and red fruits, achieved 91.08 cupping points.

In April 2019, coffee grower Esperanza Dionisio became the first "sustainability champion" of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). This award recognizes Esperanza's efforts in support of sustainable growth for the coffee industry. In 2018, Esperanza became the first woman to take over management of one of the country's coffee cooperatives, located in Pangoa, in the province of Satipo (Junín).

CUPPING SESSION © SANDRO AGUILAR/PROMPERÚ

COFFEE | PERU

A SENSORY MAP OF FLAVORS Peruvian coffee has a sensory map where its main qualities such as aroma, flavor, taste and texture are captured, offering a consensus on the acceptance of the attributes possessed by the country's specialty coffees, according to each producing region.

We have collected the accounts of expert tasters in this guide, in which they describe the experience they have had with each of the coffees from Peru. Measurement and evaluation instruments have in addition been used, as determined by the SCA (Specialty Coffee Association).

With each drop, Peruvian coffee tells the story of the land where it grows and the hands that tend it.

Discover more about Coffees from Peru at:

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PERUVIAN FACTS THAT ARE GUARANTEED TO SURPRISE YOU Pink dolphins, Rainbow Mountains, the longest surfing wave, and 3,500 varieties of potatoes!

Rich history and incomprehensible architectural feats, daredevil adventure sports and the best dramatic landscapes in the world. Peru has it all!

But did you know that this South American country, almost twice the size of Texas, boasts an array of fascinating world records and eyepopping features that are bound to surprise?

Here are a few:

SPUDS GROWN HERE The birthplace of the potato, Peru grows the most varieties of potatoes in the world at 3,500 — that’s right, 3,500!

They come in all sizes, shapes and colors.

Potatoes are the basis for the Peruvian classic dish, Papa a la Huancaina.

So proud are Peruvians of their potato heritage that they use the phrase, Soy mas Peruano que la papa (I am more Peruvian than the potato).

NATIVE POTATOES © YAYO LÓPEZ

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PEPPERS © JOSÉ CÁCERES

FACTS | PERU

SOME LIKE IT HOT Peru grows the most varieties of cultivated peppers in the world at 300 — from hot to mild, vibrant to subtle, bulbous to the size of a fingernail, and every color of the rainbow.

Yellow pepper is the most frequently used in Peruvian cuisine with ají amarillo, or yellow pepper paste, considered the most important ingredient.

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THE SANDS OF TIME

ICA DESERT © ISTOCK

ICA DESERT © SHUTTERSTOCK

Forget the Sahara. Peru has the second highest sand dune in the world, Cerro Blanco at 3,860 feet high, where you can ride dune buggies for hours and then sand board all the way down to the desert oasis town of Huacachina at its base.

COTAHUASI CANYON- AREQUIPA Š JAMES POSSO

FACTS | PERU

DEEP IMPACT Cotahuasi Canyon is the mysterious big brother of the world-famous Colca Canyon located in Arequipa at the south of Peru. It is the second deepest canyon in the world, at 11,600 feet, which is nearly twice as deep as the Grand Canyon.

With views stretching from snowy mountain peaks over 6,000 metres above sea level, down through ancient villages and cactus forest to the snaking Cotahuasi river, you will be overwhelmed by this spectacular natural reserve.

You can hike its length passing traditional villages, cascading waterfalls, dizzying suspension bridges, rarely seen ruins, ancient petroglyphs, hot springs and elusive wildlife — with barely another tourist in sight.

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MACAWS, MANU NATIONAL RESERVE © DANIEL SILVA

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WHERE THE BIRDS ARE Peru has the second largest number of bird species on the planet at 1,800. It holds the world record for the most species in a single place — 650 surrounding the Explorers Inn Lodge in the jungles of Tambopata — and the greatest number seen in a single day — 361 in the Manu National Park.

FACTS | PERU

THE BIG WAVE

SURF IN CHICAMA, TRUJILLO © DANIEL SILVA

Peru has the longest left-breaking wave in the world measuring 2.5 miles — which may be the longest surf ride in the world. It is also the world’s first nationally protected surf break. Peru’s tradition of surfing goes back 2,000 years, according to friezes found along the coast that depict humans seeming to ride waves.

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Q’ESWACHAKA BRIDGE © ENRIQUE NORDT

Q’ESWACHAKA BRIDGE © ENRIQUE NORDT

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FACTS | PERU

Q’ESWACHAKA: THE LAST INCA SUSPENSION BRIDGE The Q'eswachaka measures 28 meters long and 1.20 meters wide and it is located in the department of Cusco, over the Apurímac River at 3,700 masl, in the province of Canas, and it is considered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by Unesco.

Are you ready to cross it?

Q’ESWACHAKA BRIDGE © JULIO VALENCIA

During the Incas’ time existed a great net of roads called “Camino Real” that linked the Inca Empire.

However, due to its difficult geography, many places were joined by suspension bridges made of vegetable fiber.

The Q´eswachaka is the only bridge that has been renovated from generation to generation by Cusco families until nowadays. The material used for this suspension bridge is ichu, a grass from the highest areas of the Andes. The renovation of the bridge implies the realization of a ritual and a party that lasts around four days, starting with the payment to the Apu Quinsallallawi in an ancestral ceremony.

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Q’ESWACHAKA BRIDGE ©ENRIQUE NORDTPENGUINS IN BALLESTAS ISLANDS, ICA © ENRIQUE CASTRO-MENDÍVIL

HUMPBACK WHALE © ROB Y ANAHI WILLIAMS

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FACTS PERU

ANIMAL KINGDOM Also this country may be known for its Andean llamas, alpacas and vicuñas. But did you know that you can swim with pink dolphins in the Amazon, with turtles in the North and see penguins in Guañape Island and in the Paracas National Reserve?

Despite being the largest river dolphins in the world, weighing up to 400 pounds, the rosycolored cetaceans thrill visitors with their playfulness. Not unlike the Humboldt penguins and the sea lions that waddle along the rocky shorelines of the Paracas Peninsula and Ballestas Islands.

DIVING WITH TURTLES IN PIURA © SPONDYLUS

Peru has a large variety of marine species living in the ocean as well as in rivers: whales, river dolphins, sperm whales, dolphins and porpoises, constitute 38% of all known species in the world.

Humpback whales are the most admired of the large cetaceans. They can usually be seen on the north coast, in the Piura department, between the months of August and October, when the whales mate and give birth. Tourism services offered in the area include whale-watching, allowing tourists to spot the whales coming to the surface and leaping out of the water to everyone's delight.

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SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW Rainbows have nothing on what may be the only rainbow mountain in the world. With its psychedelic bands of turquoise, lavender, redviolet and gold, created by mineral deposits, the 17,000-foot-high mountain in the Peruvian Andes is a showstopper.

Considered sacred by the local people, Vinicunca, or Mountain of Seven Colors, requires a challenging trek to reach, but the reward is priceless.

MOUNTAIN OF SEVEN COLORS, CUSCO © ISTOCK

FACTS PERU

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MACHU PICCHU, CUSCO © RENZO TASSO-PROMPERÚ

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EXPLORE THE RICHES OF PERU A trek through the Andes? A kayak on the Amazon?

Maybe even catching a few waves.

When it comes to adventure, Peru is a paradise.

Whether your idea of adventure is adrenaline-blasting paragliding, or eyeing a species of bird you haven’t seen before, here are some amazing experiences you shouldn’t miss in Peru.

TREKKING INCA TRAIL CUSCO © PROMPERÚ

EXPLORE | PERU

1. INCA TRAIL The Inca Trail is, without a doubt, the most picturesque path in the world. Surrounded by an exquisite natural beauty and unforgettable views that include diverse ecological areas, from the few fertile lands of the heights to the Cloud Forest of the Andes, with exotic vegetation and many species of orchids, as well as several birds, animals and reptiles.

This amazing network of roads connected the territory of the Inca Empire. The Incas developed a communication system that enabled them to dominate new lands, absorb cultures, and administer the resources of different ecosystems.

The network’s most popular trail begins 82 kilometers along the Sacred Valley highway and ends at the entrance to Machu Picchu (Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate). The journey lasts between two and four days. It climbs through several climates and formations, from the eyebrow of the jungle 2800 meters above sea level, to fissures above 4500 meters among Pre- Hispanic structures.

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HUAYHUASH MOUNTAIN RANGE © ARTURO BULLARD-PROMPERÚ

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2. CORDILLERA BLANCA (ANCASH) This is the highest tropical mountain range on the planet and the epicenter of the adventure in Peru.

The relative accessibility of its glaciers located above 15, 419 feet makes it a compelling destination.

Along its 180 km length are more than 300 snow peaks of incomparable beauty that rise to more than 16,404 feet. Huascaran (22,204 feet), Huandoy (20,980 feet) and Alpamayo (19,511 feet) are outstanding examples. In addition, it holds more than 830 lagoons, the majority of them displaying turquoise waters, such as the fantastic Laguna 69, or Llanganuco.

QUEROCOCHA LAGOON, RECUAY, ÁNCASH © PROMPERÚ

EXPLORE | PERU

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TREKKING AT COLCA © LEONEL ORTIZ / PROMPERÚ

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Twice the size of the Grand Canyon, the enormous Colca is one of the deepest canyons in the world (11,154 ft). This enormous canyon located in the Arequipa region is formed by the Colca River and its length is covered in hundreds of pre-Hispanic terraces, proof of the high degree of farming expertise of ancient Peruvians. The highest point is the lookout point of Cruz del Condor, which offers the unforgettable experience of seeing condors in their natural habitat. The Colca Canyon can be visited all year-round, although the best time of year for trekking and river activities is between April and November.

TREKKING AT COLCA © ISTOCK

3. TREKKING AT COLCA

EXPLORE | PERU

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HUMANTAY LAGOON © GETTY IMAGES

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4. LARES AND SALKANTAY Lares is one of the lesser-known treks. It nevertheless delivers an unforgettable experience. The route- known also as the Weavers Way-begins in the district of Lares, to the north of the city of Cusco.

There is also access from the Sacred Valley of Urubamba. From the start of the hike, the Andean scenery of the Veronica, Sahuasiray, Pitusiray and Chicon peaks alternate with archaeological remains and Quechua speaking villages. The route also brings visitors into contact with traditional customs, such as llama and alpaca gazing, tuber cultivation and of course, textile production.

Salkantay, means “savage mountain” in Quechua. The slopes of this snow-capped mountain are known for their technical difficulty

and each year attract mountaineers from all over the world. However, a network of trekking paths can also be found nearby.

The best-known hike takes four days and can start in Limatambo, Mollepata or Soraypampa.

Two imposing peaks dominate the landscapeHumantay and Salkantay. This destination also offers the possibility of discovering native wildlife, from vizcachas and alpacas, to condors. It is an alternative route for reaching the Machu Picchu Historic Sancturay, following the Inca trail.

NASCA DESERT, ICA © CESAR VALLEJOS – PROMPERÚ

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5. OFF-ROAD ON THE ICA DUNES (4X4) DESERT ADVENTURE Have one more look at the astonishing landscape, which sees less than one inch of rain annually. A tour arranged through the hotel will take you into the nearby desert, where a driver will deflate the tires of his 4x4 to zoom through the dunes and hills. The thrill ride explores an area that feels like the set for Lawrence of Arabia.

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TAMBOPATA RESERVE, MADRE DE DIOS © EDUARDO CAYO

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6. TAMBOPATA This reserve in the southern Amazon is rich in flora and fauna and the most biodiverse area of the rainforest in the Peruvian Amazon. The reserve has world record diversities in bird, butterfly, dragonfly, beetle and fly taxa.

It is such an adventure to access the reserve sailing down the river and then staying at one of the local lodges. An unforgettable experience you can´t miss!

BUTTERFLIES IN TAMBOPATA © WALTER WUST

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AMAZON CRUISE - PACAYA SAMIRIA © IQUITOS- RICHARD MARK DOBSON

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7. AMAZON RIVER The mighty Amazon River has been confirmed to be the longest river in the world stretching 4,344 miles. It contains a fifth of the earth’s freshwater beginning in the Peruvian Andes as a gentle stream.

Amazon River cruises are a great way to visit native communities and see exotic Amazonian flora and fauna, observing the thousands of species of wildlife, all in the comfort of a five-star trip with specialized guides and gourmet food.

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BALLESTAS ISLANDS, ICA © EDUARDO CAYO - PROMPERÚ

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8. PARACAS The reserve and the neighboring Ballestas Islands are home to sea lions, Humboldt penguins, dolphins, flamingos, and other birds. Farther south, you enter into a desert of amazing sand dunes and the Huacachina Oasis.

Natural energy. There are destinations where you can still unplug from the world; places as amazing as they are legendary which fill us with energy and delight. Drinking a glass of champagne in a Bedouin tent in the midst of the Ica desert or enjoying a sunny afternoon in a private country house with access to a spa and thermal waters in a valley in Arequipa are just some of the experiences you can enjoy.

DUNES OF THE DESERT OF PARACAS © THOMAS JEREMIAS

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MARVELOUS SPATULETAIL, MADRE DE DIOS Š ERNESTO BENAVIDES - PROMPERÚ

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9. BIRDWATCHING AT MANU The Manu National Park is one of the jewels of the protected areas system in Peru, because it encompasses a range of altitudes, from the puna grasslands at 13,123 ft down to the Amazonian plain at 984 masl, passing through dwarf forest, montane forest, and foothill forest. Moreover, uncontacted ethnicities still exist within its boundaries.

It is located within the provinces of Manu and Paucartambo (Regions of Madre de Dios and Cusco). It is accessible by road from Cusco by way

of Paucartambo up to Acjanaco pass (about 4 hours), then the road begins to descend until reaching Atalaya (about 5 hours) where it is possible to travel by boat to Boca Manu (about 6 hours).

The weather is warm (Amazon area) and cold (Andean area). It is advisable to visit from April to November. The touristic infrastructure includes lodging, dining services, viewpoint and birdwatching hideout, interpretation center and a Biological Station.

BIRDWATCHING AT MANU © GETTY IMAGES

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REACH NEW HEIGHTS. RECONNECT WITH YOURSELF IN PERU If you are looking for a complete and personalized travel experience that will leave a lasting impression, Peru is the perfect destination to re-connect with yourself.

TOURISTS IN TAMBO DEL INKA HOTEL © JANINE COSTA-MMTPHOTOGRAPHY

Peru, the richest country in the world, provides a meaningful cultural immersion in magical landscapes that will renovate your energies amidst the mystical Andes mountains.

TOURISTS IN TAMBO DEL INKA HOTEL © JANINE COSTA-MMTPHOTOGRAPHY

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Specialized health and wellness offers are spread out throughout the country in regions like Cusco, Lima, Madre de Dios and Arequipa, where much of the natural and historical attractions merge down with sacred lands. Travelers can find wellness programs and workshops that combine cultural activities with local communities, hikes, guided yoga practices and spa sessions in breathtaking sceneries.

Several tour operators offer tailor-made itineraries according to your plans and preferences that cover accommodation, meals, transfers, yoga sessions and optional excursions to fit your budget.

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TOURISTS IN TAMBO DEL INKA HOTEL © JANINE COSTA-MMTPHOTOGRAPHY

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CUSCO, THE EMPIRE OF THE SENSES As the Incas did 500 years ago, the Sacred Valley is the main destination to find the best and most diverse wellness experiences for health, spa and body care treatments. Cusco is now synonymous with well-being escapes.

Many of the best hotels and eco-sancturaries in Cusco offer different options for massages and body treatments, including whirlpools, gyms, jacuzzis and spas with aromatherapy, rituals, oxygen lounges and full beauty services.

TOURISTS IN MONASTERIO HOTEL © JANINE COSTA-MMTPHOTOGRAPHY

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Outside the city, a wider variety of hotels serve as a retreat for rest and disconnection from the world, with bungalows and design that integrate the surroundings in their proposal, and offer a wider variety of services, ranging from massages, meditation, spas, sauna, beauty salons, aromatherapy workshops, hydrotherapy, body treatments, reflexology, healing offerings and reiki sessions. Some of these sites even produce their own creams, soaps and essential oils made with products from the mountains and the amazon jungle.

Most hotels opt for organic products whenever possible, and have a diverse menu for those with dietary restrictions or healthconscious diets, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free with ayurvedic principals, fusioned with the best novo-andean cuisine and superfoods.

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PERUVIAN WEAVER © LUCAS BARGEN

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FIBRES THAT CONNECT WITH THE WORLD The Peruvian textile history began five thousand years ago when weavers from pre-Inca and Inca cultures mastered the natural fibers of cotton and alpaca. Today, these ancestral techniques, mixed together with a modern and competitive manufacturing industry, result in the production of top quality garments for the discerning international market.

However, what makes Peruvian fibers so special? When it comes to Alpaca, its softness, ease for weaving, hypoallergenic properties and great variety of natural colors give it a remarkable value in the global fashion industry. Concerning Pima cotton, its value lies in its unique characteristics such as fine and shiny thread; perfect to obtain a variety of garments and patterns.

Tangüis cotton also grows in Peru and due to the consistent nature of its fiber, it is an outstanding base for printing and dyeing. The low water consumption of Tanguis, along with being handpicked, further reduces its environmental impact.

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ALPACA FIBER © ERNESTO BENAVIDES

COTTON PLANT © LUIS YUPANQUI

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Lacoste, Polo, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger o Zara have been working hand on hand with Peruvian companies in the creation of their collections.

Classic to avant-garde is easily achieved in the hands of Peruvian designers, combining techniques that have been used throughout the centuries with modern technology, resulting in unique as well as wearable creations.

In a country with history as rich as Peru’s coupled with its natural resources, there is no limit for the imagination.

PERUVIAN INDUSTRY © JOAQUÍN RUBIO

The Peruvian textile and manufacturing industry offers to the fashion world top and efficient services, optimum lead-times and complies with the standards required by the global market.

Likewise, Peruvian products and services respect the global principles of fair trade based upon respect and equity, which results in more profitable commercial conditions for every stakeholder along the value chain: from fiber production, through yarn and fabric, to tailoring.

As a result, recognized international brands such as Calvin Klein, Giorgio Armani, Guess,

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ALPACA GARMENTS © SANDRO AGUILAR

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ALPACA FROM PERU “Alpaca from Peru” is a brand that was created with the objective of positioning alpaca fiber in the world and promoting its origin and advantages.

80% of the world’s production of Alpaca is concentrated in Peru. The variety of colors, which come in a range of 22 natural colors from black through variations of grays and browns to white, their lightness, versatility and trans-seasonality puts the alpaca over other natural fibers. Its antimicrobial and hypoallergenic fiber contains no oil or lanolin which makes the fiber incredibly durable and skin- friendly.

Alpacas are native to the mountain range of the Andes; they reside at altitudes of more than 4,000 meters and withstand extreme temperatures. Alpacas have special thermal properties due to their microscopic air pockets, allowing air through on warm days to bring the wearers temperature down and trapping body heat in cold weather.

TEXTILES | PERU

shapes. All these qualities have made Peruvian Alpaca a highly valued fiber around the world.

Today, the alpaca fiber is the star of the most prestigious collections of renowned brands like Max Mara, Stella Mc Cartney, Elileen Fisher and others, and is present in the most important runways of the fashion industry.

ALPACAS IN AREQUIPA © ISTOCK

Alpaca fiber competes and has many benefits over the finest luxury fibers such as cashmere, mohair, angora and wool. Moreover, it is warmer and stronger than wool, and so resistant to saturation that it’s nearly water-repellant.

Peruvian Alpaca is nowadays synonymous of luxury and exclusivity due to its unique colors, textures and

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PERUVIAN ALPACA GARMENTS AT BERGDORF GOODMAN SHOWCASE

MAX MARA RUNWAY © PROMPERÚ

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Also Peruvian Alpaca appears in the most important luxury showcases as Bergdorf Goodman in New York, a showroom in Korea and the “Alpaca del Peru” store in Beijing which offers clothes and exclusive accessories made with alpaca.

Alpaca del Peru brand has been positioning itself in the luxury segment and its perceived value is quite high, this is the main reason why many Peruvian companies that use this fiber in their collections, have been participating in important fairs and events such as Coterie and Premiere Vision (USA), Who's Next and Tranoi (France), Chic (China) and others, where they have the possibility to generate business opportunities with international buyers.

Peruvian Alpaca is the perfect blend of tradition and modernity, the reason why international brands choose this fiber for their finest collections.

Discover more about Peruvian textiles at: www.perumoda.com

WHY CHOOSE PERUVIAN MANUFACTURING? • Located on the western coast of South America, Peru is centrally situated and an easy global hub.

• Home to several of the best raw materials in the world: Pima cotton, Alpaca, Vicuna and the expertise in these natural fibers as well as mixing them into a wide variety of blends.

• Places a high priority on environmentally friendly, sustainably oriented and socially responsible production.

• An innovative corporate sector with an entrepreneurial spirited population.

• Active in research & development in all phases of production, innovating from the farm and field to yarns through manufacturing and finishing in order to stay ahead of the needs and trends of the international market.

• The collaboration between the private and public sectors helps to position Peru as a reliable, consistent and serious exporting country providing the world premium options, superior quality control, internationally recognized certifications and increasing added value.

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A DESTINATION OF UNIQUE EXPERIENCES FOR MEETINGS AND EVENTS TOURISM A cosmopolitan city on the edge of the sea, natural landscapes and locations, twenty-first century infrastructure, attention to every last detail and world-class cuisine. In Peru, you will find everything you need for meetings and events tourism.

Peru offers a wide range of unique experiences for meetings tourism, and it has being consolidated as one of the most popular international destinations.

One of the defining traits of Peruvians personality is their passion and making sure that their guests receive only the best attention.

For them, the demanding attendees deserve the same attention as their closest of friends: they give them only the best. And in this case, the best means more than pleasant lodgings, modern facilities and professionals ready and willing to exceed their expectations.

Peru has hit the twenty-first century at full speed, having experienced sustained economic growth for more than fifteen years now, led by private investment in areas such as mining, finance, manufacturing, and, of course, tourism.

The heritage of our past, which makes us a oneof-a-kind destination, blends seamlessly with modernity. One of the most remarkable examples of this is the investment increase in hotels, mainly in international chains that have focused their strategies on the Peruvian market in an effort to develop meetings and events tourism. Lima has accumulated enormous experience in hosting the world’s most important events over the past decade.

APEC CEO SUMMIT © PROMPERÚ

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Along with the country’s capital, cities such as Arequipa and Cusco, as well as the seaside resort of Paracas, are also perfectly positioned to host congresses, meetings, and incentive travel events. Tailor-made

activities, unique cuisine, and cultural attractions that won’t be found anywhere else, along with Peruvians’ world-famous friendliness, everything is right here waiting for you.

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TOURISTS AND MUSICIANS FROM THE ISLAND OF TAQUILE, PUNO © JANINE COSTA / PROMPERÚ

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MORE THAN YOU EXPECT What makes Peru so special is its cultural legacy.

The Inca Empire was one of history’s great civilizations— Machu Picchu is the icon by which it is known internationally—but before the Incas, dozens of other cultures populated the territory, leaving their mark on countless areas of science and art (such as medicine, engineering, architecture, textiles, metalworking, and ceramics, just to name a few). Nowadays, innumerable archaeological sites throughout the country marvel visitors from around the world.

Five millennia of culture were enriched by the arrival of the Spaniards in the sixteenth century, along with the subsequent contributions of

Africans, Europeans, and Asians, who brought their customs and adapted them to their new home in Peru. It is for this very reason that our cuisine is so highly acclaimed for its originality, while our music boasts melodies and rhythms that have traveled halfway across the world, fusing into traditional dances and outfits with a diversity that makes them truly unique.

Peruvians are friendly by nature. They welcome their guests with a vast heritage while striving to make them feel right at home.

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FIVE REASONS TO HOST YOUR NEXT MEETING IN PERU The success of a big business event or an incentive trip is linked to the choice of the destination. Here, we give you the top reasons on why Peru is the best choice.

With an economy that has led the Latin American boom of recent years, Peru never ceases to surprise the world with its strengths. In the last two decades, Peru has implemented a responsible and stable economic policy that has turned it into a rapidly growing economy, offering a wide variety of investment opportunities.

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Open to the world: Peru has signed free trade agreements (FTAs) with the greatest powers in the world, including the United States, the European Union, and China.

It is one of the best countries to do business in, according to the World Bank’s Doing Business Report.

Peru is the one of the most populous country in Latin America and a leader in growth, with a favorable outlook for the coming years according to projections by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Peru is a member of the Pacific Alliance—a new trade bloc that also includes Chile, Colombia, and Mexico—as well as the Andean Community and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum and has been admitted by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to become a full member by 2021.

After experiencing such stable economic and political progress, Peruvians are eager for more.

Private investment continues to flow into the country, while the FTAs have provided export sectors (raw materials, manufacturing, and agribusiness) with a solid platform from which to reach the world’s biggest markets.

BUSINESS MEETING © SANDRO AGUILAR

1. A FORWARD-LOOKING COUNTRY A growing economy

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Over 30 international destinations and 1,000 flights per week.

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Main Domestic Air Routes Departure point Destination point Route

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This graphic is provideed fo for refe ference purposes only. The boundaries shown herein do not take precedence over international boundaries.

2. CLOSE TO EVERYONE Due to its strategic location, Lima serves as a regional hub. International flights arrive at the Jorge Chavez Airport, considered one of the best in South America, where it is possible to catch domestic connecting flights to the country’s main tourist destinations.

PARAGLIDING IN MIRAFLORES, LIMA © CHRISTIAN VINCES / PROMPERÚ

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3. PLACES WHERE BUSINESS MEETS NATURE With cities declared World Cultural Heritage by the UNESCO, and a seaside resort situated alongside a protected natural area, Peru combines modernity and first-class infrastructure with historical wealth.

Lima The only South American capital with Pacific Ocean access. Today, this city and its colorful past— both Pre-Hispanic and Colonial—have taken bold steps into the new millennium, perhaps more successfully than any other metropolis of its size. Its transformation has occurred hand-in-hand with Peru’s economic growth, which has been ongoing now for fifteen uninterrupted years, driven primarily by domestic and foreign private investment.

Lima is used to receiving businesspeople from all over the world, with trade and investment missions. It’s a

city with vast experience in organizing major events, such as meetings and congresses, and it is a new and highly considered incentive travel destination.

A city with everything you need for successful meetings: •

Lima is a natural Hub in South America with daily direct flights to cities like Madrid, Paris, London and Amsterdam.

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More than 7,500 available rooms, in hotels from 3 to 5 stars

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A wide offer of auditoriums, halls, and convention centers.

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Lima is a culinary capital, with restaurants included in “The World's 50 Best Restaurants” list.

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PASO HORSES, LIMA © LEONEL ORTIZ / PROMPERÚMIRAFLORES

The city offers an ever-growing supply of first-class hotels, many of them members of the world’s most prestigious chains, along with domestic chains that guarantee world-class service, equipped with facilities ready to host all types of corporate events.Indeed, tourism –including business tourism–has been one of the driving factors behind Peru’s economic growth. Given Lima’s position as the gateway to Peru, the city features one of the bestequipped airports in Latin America, with services and facilities that have earned it prestigious international awards.

PROMPERÚMIRAFLORES CITYVIEW © CHRISTIAN VINCES/ PROMPERÚ

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Paracas from plants, animals, and minerals), continue to surprise the world’s top experts.

Exclusivity in front of the sea Along with traditional beachfront houses, modernday Paracas offers five-star hotels that exist in harmony with their natural surroundings, dazzling visitors with the comfort on offer. Spas with an ocean view, massage sessions, halls for celebrations, and infinite swimming pools that seem to meld into the Pacific Ocean. Paracas can be visited on private yachts, as well, with added visits to the Ballestas, San Gallan, and the Chincha Islands.

HOTEL PARACAS A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT © GIHAN TUBBEH / PROMPERÚ

A truly out-of-the-ordinary destination, Paracas is a famed seaside resort with long beaches, seaside residences, a boat club, and modern hotels and resorts. To discover all of its nooks and crannies is to comprehend the language of nature, full of harmony and peace. Just four hours from Lima via a newly upgraded highway, Paracas is the perfect combination of nature—with its governmentprotected natural reserve—and Pre Hispanic legacy.

It was once the center of one of Peru’s most important ancient civilizations, predating the Inca Empire and noted for its achievements in medicine and textiles. The textiles of the Paracas culture, woven from the finest materials (cotton, alpaca and vicuna wool) and dyed with natural colors (obtained

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SEAFOOD DISHES © ENRIQUE CASTRO-MENDÍVIL/ PROMPERÚ

Paracas is synonymous with the sea and fresh ingredients that provide the perfect balance to delicious recipes handed down by generations of hardworking and modest fishermen. This is the land of cebiche, of fish cooked on the griddle and the grill, not to mention shellfish and creations prepared with local vegetables, such as the mouthwatering chupe de pallares, a Lima bean chowder made from maize, rice, and milk. There are exquisite desserts for all tastes, including delicate tejas made from dulce de leche, pecans, figs, or candied limes, all bathed in caramel.

PROMPERÚLA HACIENDA BAHÍA PARACAS HOTEL © WALTER WUST / PROMPERÚ

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BALLESTAS ISLANDS – PARACAS © ISTOCK

EXCURSION IN THE DESERT OF THE PARACAS NATIONAL RESERVE © HOTEL PARACAS A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT

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In Paracas you will find: •

More than 500 available rooms, in seaside hotels and resorts from 3 to 5 stars.

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A city with modern infrastructure just a few miles away to Ballestas Islands, an important sanctuary for marine fauna.

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The Paracas National Reserve, home to an estimated 36 species of marine and land mammals, as well as 215 types of migratory birds).

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A wide offer of outdoor activities and watersports makes Paracas a perfect destination for Incentive Travel.

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MAIN SQUARE OF AREQUIPA © ISTOCK

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Arequipa Known as the “White City” for its architecture sculpted from ashlar, a light-colored volcanic rock, Arequipa truly shines, blessed by perpetually sunny weather. Its lovely historic downtown, a jewel of Colonial architecture that has been named a World Heritage Site, sits under the watchful gaze of the volcano Misti, in the Chili River Valley, alongside wide swaths of fertile green fields.

The traditions of Arequipa’s historic downtown were shaped by its Pre-Hispanic, Colonial, and evangelical legacies, but its character also bears the mark of the local geography and the breathtaking natural scenery. Its constructions are a mix of Spanish building techniques, Andean ornamentation, and the use of sillar, which is

found in abundance in the zone, giving the city’s architecture one of the most unique styles to be found in the southern Andes.

Arequipa ranks second in size and production among the cities of Peru, and is situated in one of the country’s most popular tourist areas. UNESCO recognized 42 blocks of the city’s historic downtown as a World Heritage Site. Since then, private companies, religious orders, and local governments have taken on the responsibility of preserving the tangible and intangible assets that make this space so unique.

The city has 114 three-, four-, and five-star hotels, as well as a convention center. Its pleasant, dry climate and its eternally blue sky, always clear and sunny, invite visitors to take in the beauty of Arequipa’s monuments and tourist attractions.

ROCOTO RELLENO © JOSÉ CÁCERES / PROMPERÚ

SPA IN THE COLCA VALLEY © ENRIQUE CASTRO-MENDÍVIL / PROMPERÚ

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Arequipa’s cuisine, a product of the intermingling of Andean and Spanish cultures, uses the best natural ingredients from the coast and the Andean highlands in a fusion that is renowned for the variety of its recipes and flavors.

The rocoto chili pepper, one of this cooking style’s main ingredients, is the symbol of the area’s picanterías, traditional Arequipa-style restaurants. In recent years, the city has welcomed sophisticated culinary proposals, which combine traditional cuisine with new elements, both local and foreign.

In Arequipa you will find: •

More than 1,500 available rooms, in hotels from 3 to 5 stars.

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Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu are the three volcanos that define the city’s landscape, making for truly exceptional natural surroundings. Arequipa is also home to two of the world’s deepest canyons, each over 3,000 meters deep: the Cotahuasi Canyon and the Colca Canyon.

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The Colca Valley, where you can find houses and churches constructed in the Colonial Baroque style, framed by the astounding geometry of the farming terraces, as well as thermal baths. This area is also equipped with luxury hotel infrastructure.

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CUSCO CITY VIEW © SHUTTERSTOCK

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Cusco The ancient capital of the Tahuantinsuyo proudly exhibits the marks of its monumental past, when it was considered the “Center of the World”. Today, Cusco continues to attract visitors from all over the world, seamlessly incorporating its meeting and event infrastructure. There is nothing quite like a stay at a hotel built on the foundations of an ancient monastery or Inca palace, but fitted out with all the comforts of the twenty-first century.

Its archaeological sites and beautiful colonial architecture can still be found on each one of its traditional neighborhoods, converting a trip to Cusco into a magic journey, like going back in time.

Today, the city is brimming with history, while at the same time serving as a cosmopolitan destination. Among its Inca ramparts, old convents, and beautiful churches, even the most demanding of connoisseurs will find something to delight them. Just like the historic downtown areas of Arequipa and Lima, Cusco’s, too, has been named a World Heritage Site.

Five-star hotels and impeccable boutique lodging establishments: from renovated ancient monasteries to converted Inca palaces and exquisite 300-year-old mansions, complete with heated swimming pools and beauty treatments based on age-old techniques.

BALCONIES IN CUSCO © HOTEL INKATERRA LA CASONA

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All of these lodging offers have successfully created concepts that coexist in harmony with the city’s history and traditions. In the Sacred Valley, estate houses and lodges invite travelers to a truly magical experience on the banks of the majestic Vilcanota River. At the foot of Machu Picchu, villas sit alongside thermal baths and contemporary lodging propositions incorporate sustainability and ecology into every detail.

is still ongoing today. Stews cooked in earthen pots have been reinvented while maintaining their traditional essence, and long forgotten products now form part of the culinary vanguard. Direct contact with farmers and producers is increasingly valued, helping to build bonds and tell stories through the ingredients that go into the city’s flavorful and refined tasting menus.

Cusco’s cuisine is an open invitation to delight and discovery. Not all that long ago, the recognition of Peru’s flavors as among the world’s best marked the start of an interesting investigative journey into Andean ingredients and techniques, a process that

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DINNER AT THE MONASTERIO HOTEL, CUSCO © JANINE COSTA / PROMPERÚ

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In Cusco you will find: •

More than 3,500 available rooms, in hotels from 3 to 5 stars.

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A myriad offers, from train travel—now offered in elegant, exclusive wagons—to world-class trekking along the Inca Trail, a unique chance to discover a protected natural area that includes nine life zones and congregates nearly 10% of the country’s biodiversity.

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Experience nature in its purest state. Cusco is happy to share its history with the curious traveler, and the different ways of exploring the city and its surroundings have become increasingly specialized, including tailor made activities for incentives tourism.

MEETINGS | PERU

4. WORLD-CLASS CUISINE That’s our culinary tradition, in a nutshell. Peruvians domesticated the potato thousands of years ago— there are over three thousand varieties of this tuber in our country—and successfully balanced their diet with other products offered by the land, such as quinoa, kiwicha, beans, and maize. Then the Spaniards arrived, enhancing our recipes with Mediterranean techniques and ingredients, enriched by their own Arab and Jewish heritage.

GYOZAS DE CACHETE EN SALSA A LO MACHO- BARRAKHUDA © ENRIQUE PAREDES

CEBICHES © YAYO LÓPEZ / PROMPERÚ

In the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, immigrants from China, Japan, Italy, and other European nations further expanded our menu. That process of adaptation has resulted in an original and flavorful cuisine. Each dish and each recipe has its own history, which is why the culinary experience in Peru starts even before your first bite.

The traditional is still present, as it should be, but the creativity of our cooks has always sought out new challenges. Thanks to this drive, new fusion offerings are constantly emerging, to the delight of diners. In Peru, cuisine is truly worthy of being considered an art form, and those who make sure each dish shines brightly are authentic artists. For proof, one need look no further than Peruvian cuisine’s recognition as Cultural Heritage of the Americas by the Organization of American States (OEA), and the fact that three Peruvian restaurants have earned a place on the select list of the world’s fifty best eateries 2018.

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Along with cultural heritage, it is Peru’s incredible abundance of ingredients that explains the richness of our country’s cuisine. The range of climates and altitudinal zones provides us with an infinity of fruits, vegetables, and meats. The sea has a hand in this, too,containing countless species that are not only flavorful, but are caught fresh every day of the year. Another major advantage: Peruvians are accustomed to eating fresh and natural. We are able to gather all the ingredients we need, prepare them, and eat them

on the very same day they were picked, processed, or caught. Thanks to the boom in healthy eating and the priority given to our diets when it comes to staying in shape—something that comes naturally to Peruvians—our cuisine has become our primary weapon of seduction. We are also proud leaders in the production of different organic foods, and we have the international certifications to prove it. To this healthy reality, one must add our chefs’ care in buying fair trade ingredients, because the culinary chain in Peru places special importance on the very first link: the producer.

QUINOA SOLTERITO © ADRIÁN PORTUGAL

Naturally Healthy

5. PROFESSIONALISM AND CORDIALITY Over the past decade, Peru has gained significant experience in the organization of meetings, congresses, and events of different magnitudes. From momentous international forums that attracted 12,000 attendees—including high-ranking dignitaries, academics, professionals, and business people from all over the world—to small but no less important meetings and forums held in one of Peru’s cities.

For this purpose, we not only offer fully equipped facilities, but we also have professionals in countless fields: production companies that take care of all the coordination; catering companies and entertainment producers; as well as translators, interpreters, and tourism operators, all prepared to make sure your event exceeds your highest expectations.

CASA ANDINA AREQUIPA HOTEL © ENRIQUE CASTRO-MENDÍVIL / PROMPERÚ

APEC CEO SUMMIT © PROMPERÚ

MEETINGS | PERU

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Your Perfect 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

PERU

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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 aractions, 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 handicras 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 poery, 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, handicras 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 cra even more sought-aer. 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 © sanDro aGuilar

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. lile-by-lile the community started opening up to tourists, aracted 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.

TrAdITIonAl TexTIle WeAvIng © luCas BarGen

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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 handicras (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 cras, 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 benefiing 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.

AMAzonAs rIver IqUITos

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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 geing booked up

CHoqUeqUIrAo, CUsCo © shutterstoCk

PERU

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 oen 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.

PERU

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. Aer 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 laer 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 spoing and many lodges close to the river port hub of Puerto Maldonado that include visits to local communities as part of the jungle experience.

PACAyA sAMIrIA © alfonso zaVala

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.

PERU

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

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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, buerfly, 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 unforgeable 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

PERU

rIverBoAt cruISeS Amazon journeys on the Amazon river as standalone adventures of a lifetime.

PACAyA sAMIrIA, IqUITos Š 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

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.

PERU

NORTHERN PERU THE MOCHE ROUTE yourself in one of the most important cultures to sele 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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señor de sIPÁn JeWels © luis GaMero

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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.

PERU

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, cra workshops and cemeteries.

sTUCUMe ArqUeologICAl CoMPlex © MYlene D' auriol

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 selements are on offer, where one can discover cras 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

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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 le 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 en CabO blanCO © GIHAN TUBBEH

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.

PERU

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 silhouees of pious friars (for which it is colloquially referred to as “frailones”, by the word fraile, spanish for friar).

CUMBeMAyo, CAJAMArCA © inés MenaCho

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 Fortress © DANIEL SILVA

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CHACHAPOYAS – AMAZONAS

CatarataGoCta © RENZO TASSO

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 beer 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.

PERU

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, AreqUIPA © alex BrYCe

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

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 © JereMiah BerMan

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cuSco once the capital of the Inca empire, the ancient city of Cusco is steeped in history, captivating aractions 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 seing.

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-aer trekking experiences in south America.

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Uros Island, PUno © ALEX BRYCE

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PUNO, PERU'S FOLKLORIC CAPITAL Puno is home to the western side of popular tourist araction 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 Š heinz PlenGe ParDo

Puno is also the land of quinoa and world famous coee, 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 (984) 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, coon production and vineyards which are considered the best in the country.

sAndBoArdIng © MarCo Garro

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SANDBoArDING Ideal for sandboarding along the dunes, Peru’s coastline is a long, narrow band of desert framed by the Pacific ocean and interspersed by 52 valleys that are fed by rivers which start high in

the mountains. The favourite activity here by far is to head out on to the dunes with a board and aempt to stand up while hurtling down a sheer drop created by the wall of sand.

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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 seing 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 aractions 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 seled 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 selers, 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

CUISINE OF LIMA Lima hosts the most important food fair in Latin America, Mistura. Its culinary variety delights locals and visitors alike. This 10 to 13 day event gathers the most renowned chefs and is aended by about 300,000 people every year.

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 Fiy Best Restaurants in the world: Central, Astrid & Gastón, and Maido.

AnTICUCHos © José CaCéres

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prepared with cow's heart. It’s a popular street food, these skewers are marinated in garlic, cumin and olive oil; a flavour that you’ll never forget.

Booms 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 bier. It may in addition be used as the basis of the classic Chilcano, a fresh beverage prepared with pisco, ice and ginger ale.

PIsCo © Musuk nolte

lima’s most iconic seafood dishes include ceviche, tiradito and parihuela. Also, you can’t miss the tasty anticuchos: beef skewers traditionally

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Duck with rice © JOSÉ CACÉRES

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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

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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 friers with dried pork meat), inchicapi or chicken soup with peanuts and cilantro, and patarashca (fish wrapped in leaves).

PACACho, MAdrE dE dIos © DANIEL SILVA

Food from the Peruvian Amazon aracts 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 beer 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

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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

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

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 PorK In TerIyAKI sAUCe Š sanDro aGuilar

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 avours, 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

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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 beer place to live.

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© enrique Castro MenDíVil

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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.

PACoyA sAMIrIA nATIonAl PArK © JunGle exPerienCes

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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-aer 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 spoing 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 ) 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 scaer 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.

sloTH, IqUITos © roDriGo roDriCh

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 oer, 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.

PeLiCanS, PaRaCaS nationaL ReSeRVe © PROMPERU

Sea LionS, BaLLeStaS iSLandS © GIHAN TUBBEH

there are a total of 33 species of marine mammals in Peru ranging from the tiniest saltwater marine oers 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

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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 craed images of camelids, from the cave paintings of Toquepala, depicting hunting scenes, to the more sophisticated Inca poery.

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fesTIvAl de lA CAndelArIA PUno © renzo GiralDo

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.

fesTIvAl de lA CAndelArIA PUno © Musuk nolte

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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

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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 aendants and the villagers perform acrobatic displays on the roof tops.

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MArInerA, PerUvIAn PAso Horse© Denise teJaDa

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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

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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 aer 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.

1

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.

2

Heritage cities. lima, Arequipa and Cusco have been declared Unesco World Heritage sites.

3

World-famous cuisine. Peru has been chosen as the world’s best culinary destination by the World Travel Awards for six consecutive years.

In addition, three Peruvian restaurants have made their way onto the list of the World’s 50 Best restaurants and nine others are included on the list of latin America’s 50 Best restaurants.

4

lIMA's BUsIness CenTer Š 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.

5

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GALLerY

AMAzon rIver © Delfín aMazon Cruises

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GALLerY

ICA deserT © GettY iMaGes

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lAs PoCITAs BeACH, PIUrA © MarCela DelGaDo

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GALLerY

MAdre de dIos © istoCk

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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 underoor 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 o 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, so, 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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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 kied 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 jey. hps://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 aernoon, 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, aractions 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.elgolotelboutiqueperu.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 raing, 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 lo, and an enormous bathroom with a freestanding tub.

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

Villa Barranco is perfectly positioned or exploring the local area: Barranco’s main aractions 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/

PERU

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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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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 rooop bar, the perfect place to unwind with a Pisco Sour aer exploring Barranco’s best restaurants, galleries and nightlife. www.casarepublica.com

PERU

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Plaza de armas mayor lima ©ISTOCK

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TOP 10 PLACES T

PERU

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 selers 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 seled places in the americas.

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Caral © MICHAel tWeDDle

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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

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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 shi in altitude from sea level to over 11,000.

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 30 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 © IstoCk

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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

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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

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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 ©WAlteR sIlVeRA

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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 oen 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 seing 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 aer the natives who inhabited them. The islanders continue to practice traditional customs and cras 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, aer all, life should be beer when you check in.

PERU

✶ 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 rooop 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 Mario enjoys a superb seafront location in trendy Miraflores.

Housed in an eye-catching 25-story glass tower that resembles an enormous arch, the JW Marrio 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 Marrio’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.marrio.com/hotels/hotelinformation/restaurant/limdt-jw-marriohotel-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, aernoon tea and drinks.

Leisure facilities include a fitness centre and a heated rooop pool offering fantastic sea views. hp://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

PERU

✶ 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.

Aer 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 kied 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

PERU

✶ 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

PERU

✶ 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 rooop 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. Aractions 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 aernoon.

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 seing 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.

Aer 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.marrio.com/hotels/travel/cuzmcjw-marrio-el-convento-cusco/

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âœś 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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Friday 26th October 2018 The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

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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.

Aer 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 palee, 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, so music, and three heated wooden chaise lounges balance guests’ brain frequencies.

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THe SPA AT Jw mArrioTT LimA Wherever you’re at in your Peruvian adventure, you are sure to want a soothing massage before or aer your hiking and walking excursions.

Best In Travel recommends booking a relaxing body scrub, a smoothing body wrap and a deep tissue massage to li 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.marrio.co.uk/hotels/travel/limdt-jw-marriohotel-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 reexology. 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. Aer 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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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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AFLORES PARK

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JW MARRIOTT PRESIDENTIAL SUITE

The elegant and spacious Presidential Suites at the JW Marrio 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 Marrio 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.marrio.co.uk/hotels/hotel-rooms/limdtjw-marrio-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 siing 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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NCTUARY LODGE

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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 seing, or to dine al fresco or in an enchanting courtyard seing 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 prey 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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TEL MONASTERIO

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