PERU TOUR OPERATOR

Epic Adventures | The Real Local Experiences | Specialist in Small Groups

Bird watching and the importance of binoculars

If you are passionate about nature, bird watching and getting lost on endless routes in the Amazon rainforest, you need the best binoculars for bird watching. With them you can enjoy distant and inaccessible landscapes and you can observe animals without them noticing your presence. Binoculars are a very important instrument in long-distance bird watching.

Going bird watching is one of the first things you start doing when you start observing nature, birds are colorful and they are everywhere. For a reason it is one of the most widespread hobbies in the world. Binoculars or binoculars are an invaluable aid for the practice of observing and identifying wild birds, they allow us to zoom in on their image to be able to appreciate details that are sometimes impossible to observe with the eyes and that are usually key to determining the species. Binoculars are a basic element for practicing bird watching. To choose your binoculars you must consider the characteristics of the places where you will normally do your bird watching excursions.

Every fan of bird watching in nature knows that trying to hit the target among the conifers is more difficult than finding a needle in a haystack. For that, there are certain tips that can help with that task. Having the best binoculars for bird watching will make a difference in finding the location of birds or not. However, the characteristics of the lenses will depend on personal taste.

Best binoculars for bird watching

Peru’s Orchids: A Journey into the Exotic and Mysterious Floral Realm

The orchids of Peru are a priceless treasure of Amazonian flora, their dazzling variety and their adaptation to the unique habitats of this region make them a natural wonder that must be appreciated and protected. Through responsible conservation and the promotion of sustainable tourism, we can ensure that these exquisite flowers continue to delight future generations. Peru stands out for being home to a wide variety of orchids. These flowers, with their exquisite shapes and colors, have captivated botanists and hobbyists for centuries. It is estimated that more than 3,000 species of orchids are found in Peru, many of them endemic and unique to this region. From tiny orchids to majestic specimens, the diversity of shapes and sizes is simply astonishing.

Peru’s geographic location and climatic conditions create an ideal environment for the growth and proliferation of orchids. The combination of abundant precipitation and warm temperatures throughout the year favors its development in cloud forests and transition areas between high and low forest. The preservation of Peru’s orchids is a fundamental concern. These floral jewels face multiple threats, including the destruction of their natural habitat due to agricultural expansion and illegal logging. Additionally, illegal orchid trafficking is a constant concern. To protect these species and guarantee their survival, protected areas and national parks have been established, such as the Alto Mayo Protection Forest, where the conservation of biodiversity and the orchids of Peru is promoted.

Amazon bird biodiversity

The Amazon rainforest is the largest tropical forest on the planet, home to an incredible variety of most unique birds of the Peruvian Amazon, with more than 1,800 species residing in this region alone. With its lush rainforest, winding rivers and impressive variety of habitats, it’s no wonder bird watchers from around the world flock to the region to catch a glimpse of its many avian wonders. From the beginning of the 80s of the 20th century until the beginning of the second decade of the 21st century, more new species of birds have been discovered in Peru than in any other country in the world.

Peru is home to an incredible variety of different most unique birds of the Peruvian Amazon, many of which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. From the colorful and charismatic to the strange and elusive, these birds are a must-see for any birdwatcher or anyone interested in Peru’s beautiful wildlife. The Amazon rainforest is considered one of the most biodiverse places on earth and is listed as one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Peru is two-time world champion of the Global Big Day, the largest bird watching competition, in the 2015 and 2016 editions.

most unique birds of the Peruvian Amazon

Learn about the medicinal plants of our Peruvian jungle.

Traditional medicine, one of the most impressive expressions of the ancestral memory of the Amazonian peoples, makes use, among other practices, of a large number of plant species to cure their diseases and syndromes. The medicinal plants of the Peruvian Amazon constitute one of the largest reserves of phototherapeutic resources in Peru and the world.

Knowledge of the medicinal properties of plants is based on observation, experience and deep knowledge of the environment. Transmitted from generation to generation and enriched by the cultural integration of the native and migrant population, this knowledge has become popular medicine and current herbalism.

Traditional healers have been using medicinal plants to treat various diseases for centuries. The medicinal plants of the Peruvian Amazon are part of regional healing ceremonies. Due to its rich and diverse flora, the Peruvian Amazon is home to a wide variety of medicinal plants that have been used for thousands of years to treat a wide range of health problems.

It cannot be denied that the Amazon is a great treasure for all human beings, as it has an infinite amount of flora in its immense expanse of tropical humid forest, which has led many scientists to carry out studies, and also, the It makes it attractive to people who are looking for other alternatives to cure a disease.

Since the origin of humanity, human beings have developed and obtained medicinal plants from the Peruvian Amazon; it has surely been and is the great cradle of this practice. Land of origin, origin of life, traditional Amazonian phytotherapy cannot be dissociated from the tribes that have discovered, maintained and transmitted its wisdom. This privileged place is from then until today the largest natural laboratory on our planet: from Ayahuasca to Guarani, and thousands of active ingredients that remain to be discovered.

Medicinal plants of the Peruvian Amazon

EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE TAKING AN AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO

An Ayahuasca retreat is a program where techniques from ancestral Amazonian medicine and techniques from psychedelic medicine and transpersonal psychotherapy are combined. In an Ayahuasca retreat the main objective is a healing experience through the exploration of expanded states of consciousness. In a retreat you will participate in ayahuasca ceremonies that will help you cleanse yourself physically, energetically and spiritually, through a powerful process of catharsis, purgation and purification, and you will be supported in the use of shamanic techniques, and a transpersonal psychotherapist will help you. You interpret and make sense of your experiences of expanded states of consciousness so that you can assimilate and integrate your experience into your daily life.

Ayahuasca retreat  is an ancient medicinal drink with origins in the Amazon, specifically in Peru. The thick brown tea is made with Caapi, a vine that only grows in the rainforest, and plant leaves that contain hallucinogenic properties. Although some claim that it can benefit brain health and well-being, it is also associated with several potential risks. However, scientists have discovered several long-term health benefits of taking Ayahuasca.

In traditional Peruvian Ayahuasca ceremonies, the Shamans usually accompany with the typical Icarus songs, traditional sacred songs of the Amazonian tribes, which play a central role in the ceremony. The retreats can also be combined with complementary practices such as yoga, meditation, breathing, or other personal growth practices to help guide the experience. The effects of Ayahuasca can increase the feeling of connection to the heart and the earth, so combining these experiences can create a more expansive healing journey by helping to integrate introspection with outward activity.

During the retreat you will receive constant transpersonal psychological counseling. You will have the opportunity to live a transformative and healing experience. Experience with medicine will help you connect with your Higher Self or travel through the spiritual world. You will have the opportunity to heal childhood wounds or traumas, reconnect with your inner child and integrate the dark aspects of your personality. Ayahuasca is a powerful tool for self-knowledge. Every Ayahuasca retreat is different and each person walks their own path on their ayahuasca journey.

WHAT ARE THE GREATEST ENIGMS AND MYSTERIES OF THE INCA CITADEL OF MACHU PICCHU

Since its discovery at the beginning of the 20th century, Machu Picchu has been considered one of the most amazing world destinations, being named year after year as one of South America’s top tourist attractions. However, while there has been much speculation about the founding of the ancient citadel, there are some enigmas and mysteries of Machu Picchu that remain in the air. The enigmas awakened by the Inca citadel captivate visitors and archaeologists from all over the world. In this way we can explain the mysteries of Machu Picchu, which have remained lost in time, and jealously guarded by the last Incas of Vilcabamba, who protected this unique place, and thereby prevent its destruction by the invaders from Spain.

Due to its proximity to the city of Cusco, some archaeologists assume that it was used as a rest palace for the city’s nobles. Others argue that it was an area built to test cultivation. Certainly too many theories have been discussed since it was first seen by explorers from the prestigious National Geographic Magazine, which financed one of the first scientific expeditions in 1911, led by explorer and Yale University professor Hiram Bingham. The sacred citadel of the Incas was empty and without many artifacts for its theoretical study, which is why probable hypotheses have been inferred based on the other studies of the archaeological centers that are located nearby.

Basically the biggest objective that researchers have been pursuing to this day is where the famous lost city of the Incas is really located, which many call El Dorado, since it is believed; It is there that the Incas have taken all their treasures, which were hidden from the invadres, and it is also thought that this fabulous sacred space is yet to be discovered, in the depths of the jungles of Cusco. Here we have compiled all the enigmas and questions that all visitors ask when they visit the Inca sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Manu jewel of world biodiversity conservation

The Manu National Park has an area of ​​1 million 716,295.22 hectares and includes part of the provinces of Paucartambo (Cusco) and Manu (Madre De Dios). Its establishment, on May 29, 1973, had the purpose of protecting a representative sample of the biological diversity of animals in Manu National Park, as well as the landscapes of the low jungle, the jungle area and the southeastern Andes. Peruvian. Likewise, it aims to promote tourism based on ecological and culturally compatible criteria.

Since 1977, the Manu National Park has held the status of Biosphere Reserve. In turn, in 1987 it was declared a Natural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

The creation of this protected natural space for animals in Manu National Park aimed to promote and facilitate research, education and recreation, as well as contribute to the preservation of archaeological heritage. Its presence contributes to the recognition and protection of the cultural diversity and self-determination of the indigenous peoples of the area. The Manu National Park protects one of the most important areas on the planet in terms of megadiversity of biological species. Its great extension crosses icy punas that exceed 4,000 meters in altitude, forested mountains that give rise to a multitude of small ravines and valleys, high jungle cloud forests, and finally the Amazon plain.

animals in Manu National Park

WHAT WAS THE ENGINEERING DEVELOPED IN MACHU PICCHU BY THE INCAS

The accumulation of knowledge of Inca technology applied in the construction of the city of Machu Picchu undoubtedly demonstrates the existence of Inca engineering compatible with the context of current technology, which is demonstrated by the affinity found in the application of engineering in its different specialties, such as: geological, civil, hydraulic, road, agricultural and environmental, to name those with the greatest intervention and impact. Inca engineering in Machu Picchu reached its greatest development and relevance at the time of the Tawantinsuyu empire, which was favored by its geopolitical and strategic location, occupying the central part of the South American continent, covering extensive territories of the current countries of Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia. and part of northern Argentina and Chile.

Machu Picchu wonder of engineering

Likewise, the city of Machu Picchu constitutes a paradigm of ancestral engineering, where in situ you can admire the original Inca technology, which astonishes the world. It is possible to imagine how the Inca engineers, through their technical knowledge, challenged and managed to overcome the rugged and aggressive factors of nature, so that they adapted the city to the topography of the area. For the Inca builders there were no obstacles that made it impossible to achieve their objectives, goals and purposes.

In this sense, they very wisely analyzed, on the one hand, the strengths and opportunities of their advanced technology; and, on the other hand, they knew how to foresee the reversal of risk threats from external geodynamic phenomena, a risk caused by water and gravity. All of these factors were evaluated before making the decision to undertake the construction of the city.

The analysis of the scope of Inca engineering is an inexhaustible source of research, which will always arouse interest in technical explanations to increasingly reveal the originality of Inca technology. It is important to clarify the use of the word Inca city of Machu Picchu, city and also citadel, as Hiram Bingham called it.

HOW DID THE INHABITANTS OF THE INCA CITADEL OF MACHU PICCHU LIVE?

After the discovery of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu was given to the world, surely many of us have wondered about what the daily life of the Incas in Machu Picchu was like. And certainly to answer this question, we resorted to the different studies carried out by archaeologists and scientists over more than 100 years. Very few objects have been rescued from the Incas in Machu Picchu, which makes it even more difficult to discover the information presented to us by our visitor communities.

Formally, there are a series of authors who infer that the ancient Inca city would have been inhabited by high-ranking castes, who were served by a large number of servants, likewise these servants came from the different ethnic groups of South America.

To our knowledge, it was suggested that this place was only dedicated to worship and the spread of religious activities, Machu Picchu was constantly visited by pilgrims from all over the territory of the great Inca empire. These travelers brought their own servants, food, and offerings with them and spent from 1 to more weeks in the Inca palace, possibly seeking to meditate and share their knowledge in the different fields of technology and astronomical sciences, with the Incas of Machu Picchu.

It is known that this sacred place was a center of administrative, religious, and cultural power, run by wise men and philosophers from Tawantinsuyo. Their access to the Inca sanctuary of Machu Picchu was very restricted, only designed for the great leaders of the Incas.

Manu National Park the Amazon Rainforest of Peru

The Manu National Park is a protected natural space located in the southeast of Peru, partially located in the departments of Madre de Dios and Cusco, between the provinces of Manu and Paucartambo. It is divided into 3 large zones: the national park, the reserved area and the buffer zone. Manu National Park is a natural reserve located in the Amazon of Peru. It is the largest national park in Peru. Manu is also home to several small communities of the Machiguenga indigenous people.

Manu is located in the southern eastern part of the Peruvian Amazon, about 100 kilometers (62 miles) northeast of Cusco. The park covers almost the entire basin of the Manu River, from its tributaries in the Andes to its convergence with the Madre de Dios River. The Manu National Park is well preserved due to its remoteness, the only direct access to the lowlands is by boat across the Manu River, and there is a road that runs along the southern part of the park that gives access to the highlands of the Andes.

Because it includes several ecological zones ranging from 150 to 4,200 meters above sea level, it has one of the highest levels of biodiversity of any park in the world. Manu has more than 15,000 species of plants and more than 1,000 species of birds.

Manu National Park

MANU NATIONAL PARK OR IQUITOS?

Find your perfect adventure in the Peruvian Amazon, with its different views and experiences, Puerto Maldonado/Cusco and Iquitos, Manu National Park or Iquitos, each offer a unique approach to the magnificent Amazon rainforest. Iquitos stands out for its fascinating river tours and encounters with aquatic fauna, while Puerto Maldonado/Cusco is known for its beautiful walks through the jungle and its great variety of bird species. No matter where you go, whether Manu National Park or Iquitos, engage in the experience, embark on a quest for knowledge and create lifelong memories amidst the astonishing splendor of the Amazon rainforest.

If you are planning a trip to the Peruvian Amazon, it should be one of the fixed places to visit in Peru. Considering it as one of the most diverse areas on the planet, it represents more than 50% of the entire country’s territory. True, the jungle is most often associated with Peru’s giant neighbor, “Brazil”, which is home to more than half of the territory of the Amazon River basin.

However, many people don’t know that Peru’s portion of the rainforest is actually considered one of the most pristine forests in the Amazon, with many protected areas hosting high proportions of endangered wildlife. That is why Peru is probably the best country in South America to see the jungle in all its splendor.

Trouvez votre aventure parfaite en Amazonie péruvienne.

In Peru, whose landscape is dominated by the Andes mountain range, there are two distinct regions of the jungle: the upper jungle or upper jungle and the lower jungle. The high jungle, which is also known as the jungle eyebrow, is the part of the Amazon that is located in the eastern reaches of the Andes mountain range. The combination of altitude, heavy rains and thick forests create a dreamlike environment of waterfalls, cloud forests and unique endemic fauna, due to the isolation created by the region’s abrupt orography.

The lowland jungle is the portion of the Amazon basin of Peru, which covers all jungle areas below 1,000 meters above sea level. This is the area that people usually picture when they think of the Amazon: High temperatures, frequent rains and all the animals usually associated with the jungle such as sloths, caimans, tapirs, anacondas, jaguars and more.

Learn more about the unique features of the two regions, their different ecosystems, and ways to explore the stunning beauty of the world’s largest rainforest. The Manu National Park is completely isolated. However, Iquitos is more luxurious and attracts creatures not found in other national parks.

Manu National Park or Iquitos

What to see and do in Peru, the richest country in the world

There are many things to see and what to do in Peru, one of the most incredible countries in the world and also one of the most visited. We are not fooling anyone if we say that this is closely linked to Machu Picchu and few people can think of Peru without thinking of the impressive Inca citadel. But we can also tell you that Peru is much more than Machu Picchu, since it has incredible places that we are sure will give you some of the most unforgettable scenes of the trip and you will know what to do in Peru.

It is also one of the countries with the most culinary tradition, which thanks to its modern proposals, World Travel Awards, have given the country the title of Culinary Destination of South America for 5 years in a row.

You will find tourist attractions, but also other important places that are still little talked about abroad and that deserve to be known. Incredible landscapes, deserts, beaches, Inca ruins, historic cities, jungle and one of the best cuisines in the world. Peru is one of the most diverse countries in the world, it is divided into three regions: coast, mountains and jungle and in each of them there are many amazing places that you have to see at least once in your life.

Peru fascinates travelers with its great biodiversity and its ancient cultural heritage. But how to choose the places to visit in such a large country?

What to do in Peru

Pet income on your trip to Peru

Pets are part of our family, and if you are thinking of travel to Peru with pets, there is no reason why you cannot bring them with you. At certain times of the year, the increase in trips is very common and the National Agrarian Health Service (SENASA) reminds travelers that their pets (dogs and cats) can also accompany them, as long as they comply with requesting the certificate. export sanitary 72 hours in advance.

If you are an animal lover and you cannot imagine a trip without your faithful four-legged companion. Here you will discover everything you need to know to travel with pets and plan an unforgettable vacation. Peru is a fascinating country that has a great diversity of landscapes and best of all, it is a place where pets are very loved! In our country you will find numerous pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, parks and tourist attractions that accept pets, which will make your travel experience even more enriching.

From the vibrant city of Lima, with its parks and pet-friendly spaces, to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, where you can take walks with your dog and discover its impressive surroundings in the open air, not archaeological sites, nor museums and in some cases not on train or bus trips.

Travel to Peru with pets is an increasingly popular experience among animal lovers. Fortunately, the country offers a variety of alternatives that will allow you to enjoy your vacation without leaving your conceited child at home. However, it is important to note that traveling with pets requires proper planning. Make sure you bring with you all the necessary documents and vaccination certificates, as well as essential supplies for your pet, such as food, water and medicine.

The entry of pets to Machu Picchu or another archaeological site is NOT allowed

– Due to the sacred nature of Machu Picchu, visitors may not enter the Inca city accompanied by domestic or non-domestic animals.
– The only exception are the cases of people who need a guide dog for their normal transit. These cases are exceptional.
– Remember that within the natural area of ​​Machu Picchu you can find llamas as well as other non-domesticated species such as vizcachas, birds and even the famous spectacled bear.

Travel to peru with pets

How to organize your luggage for your trip to Peru

The diversity that we find when traveling to Peru is very large, and covers both the landscapes and the climate. There are jungles, a long coastline and high mountains. In addition, depending on the time of year of our trip, we must be prepared for cold or heat. Remember that being a very rich country in all its senses, it presents diversity of climates according to its three natural regions: Coast, Sierra and Jungle, therefore what to pack for your trip to Peru will depend on the tour and the season you have planned travel.

To prepare the luggage when visiting the South American country, we must take into account two important points. First, decide in which season we will make our trip. Second, plan an itinerary with the activities that we are going to carry out. This step will also help us, since it is a large country and with a wide range of activities, we will be able to take better advantage of the place. Traveling to Peru will continue to be one of the best experiences in the world, and the best way to enjoy it is by equipping yourself with a suitcase that has what you need.

Because Peru will be a country rich in biodiversity and tourist destinations; however, it is difficult what to pack for your trip to Peru. Even Peruvians themselves suffer with organizing their trips due to the number of variants that exist to put together a suitcase that has what is necessary for the climates or environments that their country has.

Also, get ready to make room in your suitcase to Peru and take back Peruvian handicrafts, fabrics, silverware, colorful chullos from this place of history, embellished with orchids, coca leaves, perfect architecture, but above all, fill yourself with spirituality and energy.

what to pack for your trip to Peru

Information for your trip to Peru

Traveling to Peru is one of the best alternatives to enjoy your vacations; For this reason, this is the decision that most people around the world choose, so its planning is a very important point. If you are one of the travelers who likes to have everything planned. It is always good to know a few things about the country you are going to visit. Therefore, we are going to tell you how to plan your travel to Peru. Preparing a trip is always a job, but doing it to Peru is even more complicated. There are few countries with such a variety of climates and landscapes, in addition, the distances are enormous and there are many places to visit. Peru is one of the most fascinating countries in Latin America and one of the great travel dreams for all lovers of history and nature. It has a great variety of landscapes, an incredible heritage, charming cities and delicious cuisine.

Information is always important, knowing some details of the trip to follow helps how to plan your travel to Peru any itinerary of activities. With the information at hand you will be able to find new options and even visit beautiful places that very few know or dare to visit. We will never tire of mentioning that Peru is a special country. There is a great variety of climates, languages, tourist destinations and cultures. National identity in Peru is difficult to understand or establish, precisely because of all the diversity that composes it.

How to plan your travel to Peru

WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE PERU ON YOUR NEXT VACATIONS

Travel to Peru is undoubtedly one of the greatest desires of tourists worldwide, and it is truly a great world destination because it has a large number of landscapes, and is the cradle of the largest empires that dominated this part of South America. The Incas, who built huge stone buildings, have left valuable archaeological treasures that currently fascinate every visitor who arrives in Peru. This amazing country is located on the east coast of the South American continent, next to the Pacific Ocean.

It is a unique, multicultural and colorful destination, a country full of contrasts that come to light, such as its diverse culture, history, geography, biodiversity and gastronomy; from the coastal lands of the capital and the dunes of Ica, crossing the Andes Mountains to the Peruvian Amazon.

If you are going to travel to Peru on your next vacation, take into account that you must spend at least 8 to 10 days, to be able to visit its greatest archaeological and scenic attractions, Peru is home to the citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world, located on the outskirts of the city of Cuzco in the edge of the forest. And although Machu Picchu is one of the most visited sites in Peru, it alone is not enough to fully understand this exotic country.

As one of the largest countries in South America, Peru’s landscape is diverse. In the east, you have the exotic Amazon jungle, where you can explore the great national parks such as Pacaya Samiria in Iquitos, the Manu National Park in Cusco, both scenarios are located in the great Amazon plain, where biodiversity is wide and life unique wild. The Andes mountains divide the country in half, inviting the most courageous hikers to approach them. Among the most visited mountain landscapes are the Huaraz mountain range, the Ausangate snow-capped mountain, and one of the most famous is the hill of seven. Vinicunca colors. Also in the Andes is the highest navigable lake in the world, Titicaca.

Travel to Peru also includes the extensive desert plains of Ica, Lima, Lambayeque and Piura where there are beautiful beaches, and the best gastronomy of marine products, of which the most famous dish is Ceviche, an essential place that you should visit In Peru, it is the museum of the Lord of Sipan, in which the largest collection of gold and silver objects from the Mochica culture are exhibited. An unpredictable destination are also the famous Nazca lines in Ica, which were designed by the Nazca culture. In summary, we can say that Peru has the largest number of options in landscapes, cultures and its already famous gastronomy, making this country the greatest power of tourism in the world.

When is the best season to travel to Peru?

Traveling to Peru is always a good idea, but if you want to really enjoy the Andean country, you should organize your trip based on the best time to visit Peru for the route you want to take, and thus enjoy its wonderful landscapes with the best possible weather. . Peru is one of the destinations that must be visited at least once in a lifetime. A country full of hidden treasures and home to one of the wonders of the world: The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, considered a World Heritage Site by Unesco, where the lost city of the Incas is located.

Beyond Machu Picchu and the city of Cusco, considered the “Navel of the World”, Peru hides countless places that are worth visiting such as Puno, a city located in the south of the country next to Lake Titicaca, the largest navigable lake. top of the world; Arequipa, the “White City” guarded by volcanoes; Lima, one of the largest capitals in Latin America, or the famous Nazca Lines in Ica.

It is likely that you still do not know when is the best time to travel to Peru to discover this country with such a rich history and culture. You should know that you can travel to Peru all year round, only that, depending on the region, there are months that are better than others. Hitting the best time to visit Peru can be complicated. Not surprisingly, the country has 28 of the 32 climatic zones in the world. The best time to visit Peru depends entirely on which part of the country you plan to explore. Peru is divided into three main areas in relation to the country’s average climate: the coast, the highlands, and the Amazon jungle.

Best time to visit Peru

HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD I VISIT PERU IN MY VACATIONS

Knowing exactly how many days to visit Peru during your next vacation can be a difficult question to answer. This will vary by schedule and could really come down to the destinations you’re interested in visiting. We recommend spending ten days to two weeks in Peru, as this allows visitors to visit many of the country’s highlights along with some off-the-beaten-path destinations. If you’re short on time, a seven-day Peru travel itinerary will also work if you focus on one destination and include a day trip to explore further afield. Those with three weeks or more to spend in Peru can enjoy the luxury of a relaxed Peru vacation itinerary without rushing or worrying about wasting days along the way.

Regardless of how long you are in Peru, whether it is just a few days or a couple of weeks, Peru offers some of the most memorable and unique experiences. Even with a limited number of days, travelers can visit highlights like Cusco, the Sacred Valley, the Machu Picchu trek, and even a multi-day trek. Basically, just touring southern Peru and seeing the main sites you can easily spend three weeks. It pays to carefully consider how much time you have available and what your priorities are before attempting to schedule your trip.

The best and most representative Peruvian dishes that you must try

Peru stands out for its delicious flavors, there is no person who comes to the country and does not fall in love with some of our dishes. Therefore, if you are close to traveling to Peru, we recommend you take into account the following dishes from our varied Peruvian gastronomy. The amount of best Peruvian foods that exists makes the gastronomy of this country one of the richest and most varied in the world. Peruvian gastronomy is a symbol of pride for each of its inhabitants.

It is one of the largest and most exquisite in the world without a doubt. Every day, representatives of our kitchen create new techniques and variations of dishes that will definitely delight the palates of its lucky guests. A country blessed with a privileged kitchen, which is very difficult to decide which is better than another.

Peruvian gastronomy

If you have already traveled to Peru, you know how well it eats. If there are Peruvian restaurants in your city, consider visiting them and trying absolutely all the dishes on their menu, you will not regret it. Peru is a country where you can go exclusively to eat and you will surely not have enough time to try everything. The typical dishes of Peru are a faithful reflection of the cultural richness and diversity of this fascinating South American country. Peruvian gastronomy, considered one of the most outstanding in the world, masterfully combines native ingredients and culinary techniques inherited from different cultures, such as Spanish, African, Chinese and Japanese.

Exploring typical best Peruvian foods, such as ceviche, lomo saltado or the Lima cause, is to immerse yourself in a world of flavors, colors and textures that delight the palate and captivate diners from all over the world. These culinary delights not only offer a unique gastronomic experience, but also allow you to discover the history and traditions that make up the essence of this wonderful country and its people. Peru has been chosen five times as the best culinary destination in the world.

What is the secret? The best kept secret of best Peruvian foods is without a doubt its natural ingredients and it is that Peru was blessed with having one of the largest varieties of tubers and vegetables on the planet, this is reflected in its hundreds of typical dishes of international fame that have enchanted millions of people around the world.

Best peruvian foods

The best vegetarian restaurants in Cusco

The city of Cusco is a key point for tourist activity in Peru. Being the ancient center of the Inca Empire, today it combines culture, history and a modern way of living in itself. Every year around 1 million tourists come to the city of Cusco to take tours of the famous archaeological parks, visit museums, explore Machu Picchu by train or hike, and enjoy the colorful local festivals. However, vegetarian travelers or tourists, generally, and especially in Latin America, find it very difficult to find good options for vegetarian restaurants in Cusco, they always end up resorting to the great travel companion: bread with avocado and tomato.

But yes, there are vegetarian restaurants in Cusco and in this article you will learn about some options. There are many vegetarian options in Cusco. There is something for all tastes and for all budgets. You can find it in a stall in the San Blas Market as well as in a place awarded by Tripadvisor.

Peruvian cuisine is home to a variety of delicious dishes and fortunately not all of them contain meat, chicken or fish. Actually, there are many good vegetarian options, such as choclo (corn) with cheese, corn cake or tamales, yuca, potato, the baked noodle, stuffed avocado, squash or pumpkin soup, locro de squash, etc. And of course we have the super food; Peruvian quinoa, which can be used in soups, salads, instead of rice, and even in sweet dishes and desserts.

Whether you are a vegetarian or not, these restaurants and huariques are a great option. Their food is not heavy, it is easy to digest and when you are at 3,399 meters above sea level, digestion can be very slow and sometimes play a trick on you. Therefore, eating more nutritious vegetables is a good alternative. If you are thinking of traveling to the Imperial City of Cusco, here is a list of vegetarian restaurants that you cannot miss. And if you’re not a vegetarian, it doesn’t matter, you’ll still love it!

Vegetarian restaurants in Cusco

EXPLORE THE BEST MULTI DAY TRIPS FROM CUSCO

Get to know the best trips from Cusco together with the best local guides. Cusco offers you the best hiking excursions of several days, having as final destination the wonder of the world Machu Picchu. Many of these tours are organized in walking groups, but there are also ones for families and small groups with personalized services, according to the travelers’ requirements. We can classify these hiking activities into four large groups: Treks to Machu Picchu, Out-of-the-ordinary Treks, Cultural Treks, and Landscaping and Photography Treks.

Apart from the innumerable archaeological attractions that exist in the Cusco region, this city in the Andes is also very famous for its beautiful mountain and Amazon jungle landscapes. Currently you can spend more than a week touring any of these tourist circuits that we are going to mention in this blog. Perhaps the most outstanding thing for every visitor who comes to Peru is to explore the world destinations of Machu Picchu, the Amazon jungle and the mythical rainbow mountain of Vinicunca.

But there are new scenic and cultural attractions that are being promoted, with the construction of new roads, which makes it easier to reach these tourist destinations, which in the past were visited only practicing scientific expeditions, with the help of donkeys and muleteers.

Cusco offers you that type of unforgettable experience where you will be filled with great happiness appreciating great sunsets, and its very friendly people always willing to help you. In the most distant communities, only the ancestral language is spoken, we are referring to Quechua, but they also speak Spanish. Always keep in mind that for any hiking activity in the Andes, preferably use the services of recommended travel agencies and highly experienced mountain guides, so you will be guaranteeing your safety and comfort to explore the magnificent landscapes of Peru.

Nikkei food: The fusion of Peruvian and Japanese food​

Nikkei food is a type of gastronomy that combines Japanese and Peruvian elements and is grouped within what is known as fusion cuisine. Etymologically, nikkei is the word used to describe emigrants of Japanese origin in Peru and their origin. Of all the migrant colonies that arrived in Peru in recent times, one of the most influential in the land of the Incas was the Japanese. The customs and traditions of the Nikkei, which is the term used for all Japanese emigrants and their descendants. In Peru, we can see that the Nikkei community is a community with a lot of history and whose culture has contributed a lot to the country. Above all, the impact was felt in gastronomy.

The arrival of oriental inputs and innovative techniques, in fusion with local recipes, gave rise to a series of exquisite and original dishes that took Peruvian cuisine to another level. Dishes such as ceviche, tiradito, makis acevichados, gunkans, ceviches nikkeis and olive octopus are just some of the many culinary treasures that were born thanks to this mixture and that have become the letter of introduction of Peruvian gastronomy to the world.

In recent years we have been able to see how Nikkei cuisine has become a trend in Peruvian cuisine around the world. And it is that this mixture of Peruvian and Japanese flavors is irresistible for any palate.

nikkei food

Ceviche, Peruvian dish of international prestige

Peruvian ceviche is synonymous with pride and admiration for each of the inhabitants of this South American country. Peruvian gastronomy, which makes this exquisite seafood dish available, is one of the main reasons why more and more tourists from all over the world visit the Inca country and can delight their palates. This flagship dish of Peruvian cuisine is made with fresh fish, ají limo, rocoto, lemon, onion, coriander, pepper, fish broth and salt. It is decorated and accompanied with sweet potato, parboiled and shelled corn, seaweed (yuyo) or lettuce and mountain field.

Despite the fact that there are variant recipes, its national and international success lies in its simplicity and ease of preparation. I Can be done in just minutes and with limited kitchen utensils. It should be noted that, although cebiche is also prepared in other Latin American countries, the ingredients and ways of preparing Peruvian cebiche are completely different and make this dish unique.

It is not a secret that different Peruvian chefs seek to reinvent the famous and international cebiche belonging to Peruvian gastronomy, of course, preserving its ingredients and original way of preparation. The versatility of this dish makes it possible to be prepared with almost all kinds of fish, therein lies its success. All Peruvians are proud of this flagship dish and always seek to consume it, both on holidays and on everyday days. Peruvian ceviche fills us with pride and flavor!

Peruvian ceviche was declared a National Cultural Heritage in 2004 and it is easy to see why. Throughout history, it has been a dish of pride for all of Peru. In fact, its popularity led to Ceviche Day being celebrated every June 28.

peruvian ceviche

The Peruvian chocolate admired in the world

Peru is the country with the greatest genetic diversity on the planet and has 60% of the existing cocoa biodiversity. Thanks to this, Peruvian chocolate is sought after all over the world and is awarded in many contests. Peru is the second largest producer and exporter of specialty cocoa in the world, after Ecuador; as well as the second producer of organic cocoa. In recent times, the consumption of gourmet and origin chocolate has grown, which is why it is increasingly common for the type of grain, terroir and farm from which they come to be specified on their packaging.

Three varieties of cocoa are produced in Peru: 15% Trinitario, 85% Amazonian Forastero and 5% Criollo. Peruvian cocoa bean production has been increasing steadily for ten years and grows at an annual rate of 12.6%. Chuncho cocoa from Cusco comes from the valleys of the Convention, considered one of the finest in the world.

It is cultivated in the lower part of the western slope of the Andes, and in the Peruvian jungle, between 300 and 900 meters above sea level. The main departments where it is cultivated are Cusco, San Martín, Amazonas, Piura, Ayacucho and Junín, which represent 80% of the total national production. Our cocoa has undoubtedly become one of the highest quality Peruvian products in the world, just like coffee, creating added value in top quality chocolate factories.

On the other hand, Peru has been qualified by the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) as a country where fine and aroma cocoa is produced and exported, achieving 36% of world production of this type. Peruvian cocoa has also received international awards in recent years and has been listed as one of the best in the world, which is why some of the most exclusive chocolate factories in Switzerland, Belgium and France make their products with our cocoa.

National recognition

The Peruvian state has promoted some of the actions in favor of Peruvian cocoa. In 2012, Peruvian cocoa was declared a Natural Heritage of the Nation, recognizing it as one of the most important crops in Peru. In addition, MINAGRI declared “Cocoa and Chocolate Day” on October 1 of each year.

peruvian chocolate

Peruvian coffee the best in the world

Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages in the world, and the consumption of Peruvian coffee is increasingly making its way into this market. Peru is a great producer of coffee, not only because of the quality it offers, but also because it is one of the top 15 world exporters and the first exporter of organic coffee in the world. Today, coffee is the main agricultural product along with asparagus and represents about half of agricultural exports and about 5% of total Peruvian exports. And it is the economic support of more than 220 thousand families. This product is also one of those with the greatest socioeconomic influence. The internal consumption of Peruvian coffee is in full growth, which is why we are increasingly seeing more coffee shops and coffee offers for home and office consumption.

This coffee is produced mainly in the inter-Andean valleys and the eastern Andes mountain range, where it meets the Peruvian jungle, and is cultivated in 388 districts of Peru by 150,000 producers who occupy some 330,000 hectares.

Peruvian coffee

Discover Peruvian sweets, rich in flavor and tradition

Peruvian desserts are a delight that reflect the rich culinary tradition and cultural diversity of Peru. With indigenous, colonial and immigrant influences, these sweets delight with their unique and varied flavors. Among the most popular desserts are suspiro limeño, mazamorra morada and picarones, each with a special combination of local ingredients and ancestral techniques. Peruvian markets and restaurants offer a selection of delicious sweets that allow tourists to enjoy the culture and traditions of the country through its flavors. Tasting Peruvian desserts is an unforgettable experience on any trip to this enchanting country.

It is normal that everyone wants to know Peruvian desserts since we are talking about one of the Latin American countries with the best gastronomy. In this region there are all kinds of options, and the sweetest ones should also be known.

Peru is the cradle of great stews and desserts are no exception. This special bond originated in the 16th century with the arrival in the American continent of the Spanish conquerors, who brought with them inputs such as sugar cane and wheat, as well as cattle and goats. This meant a great discovery for the ancient Inca settlers, who hardly perceived the sweet taste of fruits such as lucuma and custard apple. This is how novel products such as sugar, flour and milk arose, which were used to prepare innumerable and exquisite desserts, which allowed the birth of Peruvian confectionery, as unique as it is appreciated.

And it is that there is no Peruvian or foreigner who resists the temptation to savor a purple Mazamorra, a Suspiro a la Limeña, some Picarones or an Arroz pudding. Either to round off a lunch or to satisfy a craving during the afternoon. Any moment is ideal to be happy together with one of the many sweets that the gastronomy of Peru can offer you.

The best peruvian desserts

With the arrival of the Europeans to the American continent, an indispensable input for the current Peruvian desserts also arrived: sugar. Coming from the Old World, it soon began to be combined with local products to lay the foundations of the delicious and varied pastry that we enjoy today. The Peruvian candy culture then began its definitive process of consolidation. With the extremely high production of sugar in Peruvian territory and the perfect combination of native and foreign products, the rise of Peruvian confectionery began.

In this period, the role of the convents was essential, venues in which our desserts were strengthened thanks to the dedication and almost mystical dedication of the nuns. They were in charge of devising and preparing with their skillful hands several of the delicacies that surprise and captivate us to this day. At that time, the Spanish nuns brought to our country the knowledge of the great Moorish cooks, and it was the Creole novices together with the Indian servants, black slaves and women who were allowed to enter the convents who learned the techniques.

It was usual in those years for women to enter the convent to be nuns and others to visit it regularly to learn to embroider, cook, paint and “learn to be good wives”.

According to a publication by Hipólito Unanue (1755-1833) for the year 1797 there were 14 convents in Lima, 3 in Cusco and Arequipa, 2 in Huamanga and Trujillo and one in Cajamarca. And it is from these places where the desserts and sweets of the time came directly to the homes of wealthy families. It was a matter of time and the sale of these products became the main income for some convents, such as Arequipa. It was only during the first decades of the 20th century that the first private sweet shops and pastry shops appeared, putting an end to the success of the convents. Today there are very few who sell their desserts and sweets.

Peruvian desserts

Peruvian cuisine: a culinary adventure through the land of the incas

The richness of its lands and its cultural diversity make Peru a country of exquisite and varied gastronomy. Each city has a typical dish with an incomparable flavor. Thousands of farm products and dozens of living cultures that have shared a single territory for centuries, ended up creating an infinite offer for the palate. Peruvian cuisine is a celebration of Peru. A country with an ancient tradition and a promising future that does not lose sight of its roots and where the art of good food stands out among its inhabitants as one of the most distinctive signs of its identity.

The Peruvian people is famous for its demanding and refined palate, which comes from time immemorial. Pre-Columbian techniques allowed the preparation of soups, stews and raw fish. Food processing was a common part of daily life, having knowledge of salting meat, dehydrating and cooking in natural earth ovens. With Spanish colonization, together with African, Chinese, Italian and Japanese migration, Peruvian cuisine embraced different ways of seeing the world and new preparation techniques. The influence of Spain and China stands out, which originated gastronomy with its own name: Creole food and chifa, respectively.

Peruvian gastronomy is the set of dishes and culinary techniques of Peru that are part of the traditions and common life of its inhabitants, the result of the fusion of the culinary tradition of ancient Peru with European and other gastronomy. In 2011, Peruvian gastronomy was recognized as “Cultural Heritage of the Americas for the World” by the Organization of American States. Peruvian cuisine is one of the most important cuisines in the world and an example of fusion cuisine, due to its long multicultural history, which is based on the mixture of the culinary knowledge of ancient Peru with its own techniques and stews.

Peruvian cuisine is one of the most varied in the world; the book 357 lists to understand how we Peruvians are counts up to 491 typical dishes, being the gastronomy with the most typical dishes in the world. Along the Peruvian coast there are more than two thousand five hundred different types of soups, as well There are also more than 250 traditional desserts. The great variety of Peruvian cuisine is based on three sources: the particularity of Peru’s geography, the mixture of cultures, and the adaptation of ancient cultures to modern cuisine.

Peru is the country with the greatest variety of potatoes worldwide, with more than three thousand types of potatoes, which, in fact, has its origins in the southern highlands of Peru, a tuber that plays a very important role in global gastronomy , and in world cuisine. Some important Peruvian dishes that use potatoes are: huancaína-style potatoes, stuffed potatoes, Lima-style causes, etc.

Lima, the capital of Peru, is recognized as the gastronomic capital of America. One of the reasons why it is called this way is because it has the most important food festival in Latin America, the International Gastronomic Fair of Lima, known as Mistura.

Peruvian cuisine

THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO PERU’S SACRED VALLEY

A 100-kilometer-long valley with the most impressive agricultural terraces in the world, authentic villages and home to countless Inca ruins. The Sacred Valley of the incas in Peru is one of the highlights of the Peru travel route. The Sacred Valley encompasses some of the most impressive landscapes in all of Peru. There is so much history, culture, and natural beauty to be found there that it should be at the top of any world traveler’s list.

The Sacred Valley of Peru is incredible, amazing, magical and simply not to be missed. Today, the Sacred Valley of the incas offers centuries-old Inca ruins, green terraces, picturesque colonial towns, and colorful markets. Perhaps the most popular attractions are the citadels of Ollantaytambo and Pisac, but this beautiful Andean region is also full of other impressive Inca sites, hiking trails, and adrenaline-inducing activities. You will have the chance to meet the local people (and local llamas) from the traditional villages and open your eyes to a truly enchanting world.

During the Inca Empire, the Sacred Valley of the incas was an important region best known for being the main road from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Due to the area’s two distinct seasons, as well as its proximity to the Urubamba River, the valley was a sustained water source that was ideal for farming and livestock. As the altitude in the Sacred Valley is lower than in Cusco, the area is a perfect destination to acclimatize before heading to Machu Picchu or trekking the ancient Inca Trail.

The differences between rainbow mountain Vinicunca and mountain Palccoyo

It is nothing new that the rainbow mountains in Peru have become one of the main tourist attractions. In our opinion, they are definitely one of the places that are most worth visiting when you are in Cusco. However, there are two different colored mountains that you can visit: the Vinicunca rainbow mountain and the Palccoyo rainbow mountain. About 3 hours south of the city of Cusco, bordering the Vilcanota Mountain Range, there is a group of whimsical mountains of unique colors that do not stop attracting the attention of travelers and tourists around the world. Here, ochres, reds, whites and blues emanate from the earth, generating a spectacular effect. Below are some of the differences between Vinicunca mountain and Palccoyo.

Both mountains of colors offer beautiful natural and ecological landscapes, despite being very similar, each one has a unique attraction. On the first occasion, we have Vinicunca, also known as Winicunca, to which thousands of tourists arrive every day to contemplate this mountain; recently discovered Palccoyo rainbow mountain that is still little visited but there are two places and there are important differences between them that can make you like one more than the other.

Many say that the Vinicunca rainbow mountain and the Palccoyo mountain are very similar, but one landscape can never be identical to the other, the difference always exists, be it in temperature, altitude, scenic beauty or another, because each landscape is made up of a multitude of essential elements without comparing their most insignificant details that sometimes tend to be the most significant.

Vinicunca was the first Rainbow Mountain to become an appetizing tourist attraction in Cusco, with thousands of tourists visiting its colorful lands every day. Palcoyo, for its part, has become its most popular alternative in the last year, drawing attention not only for its relationship to Vinicunca, but also because it is actually multiple rainbow mountains that coexist in the same mountain range.

In addition, one of these jewels was listed by National Geographic magazine as “one of the 100 destinations you must visit before dying” and this was the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain.

Differences between Vinicunca Mountain and Palccoyo

WHY EXPLORING THE AMAZON RAINFOREST IN YOUR NEXT HOLIDAYS

Visiting the Amazon Rainforest is hugely popular, and for good reason. It’s one of the most bio-diverse areas in the entire world. The Amazon  is the largest in the world, spanning nine countries and covering almost 7 million square kilometers of South America. Shared across Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana, the sheer size and scale can be difficult to comprehend. With 10% of the worlds known biodiversity, the Amazon is home to thousands of fascinating species including pink river dolphins, sloths, anacondas and caiman.

Iquitos, Tambopata and Manu Park are all home to comfortable lodges nestled deep within the rainforest, offering the perfect base for an Amazon Jungle holidays. All Amazon  holidays are inclusive of incredible activities, which typically include, jungle hikes, canopy walks, piranha fishing and canoe trips.

If you’ve never thought about going to the Amazon rainforest, you should. Be it the fact that, well, it’s the Amazon, the obscene amount of biodiversity, or maybe it’s because you love animals, whatever the reason, the Amazon jungle is the trip of a lifetime. Here are some reasons you need to stop what you’re doing, go buy some bug spray, and book your ticket to the Amazon rainforest right now.

Explore the best Treks to Machu Picchu

Disover the best Treks to Machu Picchu. The ancient citadel of Machu Picchu in Cusco – Peru, is one of the greatest archaeological treasures in the world. Visiting Machu Picchu is on many a traveler’s bucket list, and for good reason. This former royal retreat is an impressive architectural masterpiece and an important part of the Inca civilization. There is no greater satisfaction than reaching Machu Picchu on your own foot. This is the reason why, in recent years, the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu has become so popular. Permits in high season (summer) are sold out months in advance.

The most picturesque way to reach the citadel of Machu Picchu is by walking through the impressive Andes mountains. However, the most popular path is the old Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu. While the trek is certainly a great experience, there are other alternative treks to Machu Picchu that are definitely worth exploring.

Luckily, the Incas, who were master road builders, laid out routes through the Andes. Many of them are alternative routes to Machu Picchu (or at least you get as close as a quick train ride). Here are a few alternatives, most of which don’t require permissions. Some of these excursions can have multiple variants and can be adapted to fit certain physical conditions.

Treks to Machu Picchu

Some tips and recommendations for choosing your camera for bird photography

Bird cameras are an essential tool for wildlife photographers looking to capture sharp, detailed images of birds in their natural habitat in the Amazon rainforest. These animals know how to keep their distance and you won’t be able to take many photos without proper equipment. For this reason, we have made this post to tell you which are the best cameras for bird photography and wild nature.

Birds have their peculiarities, they fly and are more difficult to follow, they have very fast movements even when they are perched, some are very small and are usually very suspicious animals, who easily flee in the presence of humans (or any element they consider suspicious). or that is not part of their usual environment). If you like bird photography or photography of wild animals in the Amazon rainforest (for example, if you plan to do some kind of photographic safari) and you are looking for your first camera or want to improve your equipment, I recommend that you read this article calmly.

Best cameras for bird photography

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU

Do you know when you should visit Machu Picchu?. The world’s most visited destination in South America is undoubtedly the mysterious and sacred citadel of Machu Picchu. This world wonder was built in the 15th century by the great Inca emperor Pachacuteq, who designed a very symbolic place far from the big cities of the Andes. It is believed that this Inca citadel was abandoned when the Spanish arrived in Peru. And it was not until 1911 that the first photographs of this impressive ancestral construction were published.

Every year more than two million visitors come to visit Machu Picchu, but not all of them manage to have the most beautiful photos that are circulating on Instagram or social networks, the answer is that this Inca citadel is located in a capricious geographic system where they combine the mountains of the andes and the thick jungle. So no matter what time of year you travel, Machu Picchu always dawns in the morning with some fog. Of course, the months that are not recommended are the summer season in the southern hemisphere, more precisely in the Andes, due to the anticilon winds from the Pacific, and the Andes, there are months of heavy rains (December, January, February and March). Andean Great Treks recommends visit Machu Picchu from April to November, when you will have skies with few clouds and sunny days.

Semi-aquatic predatory caimans of the Amazon rainforest

Swimming in the exotic Amazon River are some of the world’s most fascinating species: piranhas, pink dolphins, manatees (to name just a few). Among them is the elusive caiman, a carnivorous semi-aquatic member of the alligator family that lives in the Amazon rainforest. Read on for some Amazon Caiman Facts (including our favorite facts), and how you can see one for yourself!

The Six Species of Caimans

All caimans are members of the alligator family, and together they are part of a larger group of animals called crocodilians (which includes caimans, alligators, crocodiles, and gharials).

Within caimans alone there are six distinct species:

1. Spectacled Caiman: The most common of the caiman species, it gets its name from a boney ridge between its eyes that look like a pair of spectacles.
2. Yacare Caiman: Similar to the spectacled caiman, the yacare caiman is sometimes called the “piranha caiman” as it’s known to snack on the razor-toothed fish.
3. Broad-snouted Caiman: True to their name, these caimans have a broader snout than others and a pale olive color.
4. Black Caiman: The largest of all the caimans, the black caiman is a dark black and can grow up to 5 meters long.
5. Cuvier’s Dwarf Caiman: The smallest of the caimans, these are sometimes even kept as pets.
6. Smooth-Fronted Caiman: The second-smallest caiman species, they are quite similar to Cuvier’s dwarf caimans.

Amazon Caiman Facts

10 Interesting Facts About Caimans

A COMPLETE GUIDE OF  SINGRENACOCHA LAKE

Few places in the South American continent and in the world offer landscape scenarios like those of  Singrenacocha lake, its turquoise and blue waters are the result of the last period of the Wisconsin glaciation that covered a large part of the Andes mountain range. Today Mother Nature in the Andes is known as Pacha Mama, she gives us this beautiful lake, where, according to the stories of the local inhabitants, special beings inhabit, and it is also the setting where the great peaks are dressed in their sacred mantles of snow. perpetual, the people of Cusco address them with great respect, they are our protectors and givers of life through their crystalline waters that flow down forming streams and large rivers, for the use of agriculture and livestock.

This natural wonder is already available for you to visit with your friends and family, but always stressing the main rule, this planet belongs to all of us, so we must protect it, and leave each space we visit as we found it, clean of all waste and waste generated by travelers. So that future generations continue to enjoy its charms.

 

Surprising diversity of insects in the Amazon Rainforest

It is no secret that South America’s Amazon Rainforest is one of the most biologically diverse places in the world – around one in ten of all the known animal species in the world can be found there.  When most of us think of animals in the Amazon jungle, we think of the impressive megafauna like giant snakes, parrots, jaguars, monkeys, and poisonous frogs. In reality, the majority of the animal life in the Amazon is made up of insects of the amazon rainforest, and the numbers are staggering!

Scientists estimate that the Amazon basin is home to over 2.5 million species of insects, with just one acre of rainforest estimated to contain up to 70,000 different insect species! It contains the greatest number of butterfly species in the world (7,000 of the world’s 20,000 butterfly species can be found here), and it is estimated that ants make up 30% of the total animal biomass of the Amazon basin!

Many of the weird and wonderful insect species of the Amazon look like something straight out of the most far-fetched sci-fi movie, and we’ve compiled a list of our favorite bugs.

insects of the amazon rainforest

Natural paradise of monkeys in the Amazon rainforest

For many people, the lure of seeing monkeys in their natural habitat is one of the main reasons for taking a tour of the Amazon rainforest. Perhaps it is the close relationship with our own species that fascinates us about these furry creatures, but whatever the reason, the Amazon is undoubtedly home to the top Amazon rainforest monkeys. The most common are the howler, spider, squirrel, capuchin, tamarin, and marmoset. We’ve rounded up some facts about each species of monkey you’re likely to see on an Amazon vacation.

Top Amazon Rainforest Monkeys

Native foods of the Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon Rainforest food is fast gaining international recognition for its vibrant and ever-evolving cuisine. Its incredible biodiversity gives rise to an astonishing variety of fresh and exotic ingredients, many of which are relatively unknown outside the region.

Although most travelers come for the wildlife, another highlight of a visit to the Amazon is the chance to sample many of the region’s best dishes, some traditional and some with a more modern twist, but all drawing heavily on local ingredients and the unique flavors of the surrounding rainforest.

Amazon Rainforest food

Here we provide an overview of the typical ingredients that feature heavily in Amazon Rainforest food, and a list of our favorite mouth-watering Amazonian dishes to try:

Fish Dishes

Given the sheer size of the Amazon River and its tributaries, it’s unsurprising that freshwater fish forms the main source of protein in the Amazonian diet. The sheer variety of fish to be found in the region is almost limitless, but there are some firm favorites that are particularly flavorsome and have long been considered mainstays of the region’s cuisine.

All the fish you’ll encounter in the Amazon will likely be extremely fresh and flavorful. You’ll typically encounter fish in a wide variety of forms and dishes, either grilled, fried, steamed, or blended into a myriad of different sauces and stews. Combining fish either with tomatoes, coconut milk, or tucupi (a yellow sauce made of manioc juices popular throughout northern Brazil) is also very common.

In Peru, the paiche (one of the largest freshwater fish in the world) is a very popular and filling option, with a meaty texture not dissimilar to steak. Catching one of these prized fish can be enough to keep a large family going for an entire week. Other exceptionally delicious fish to watch out for include the pirarucu, the tambaqui, the jaraqui, and the surubim.

THE BEST HEADLAMPS FOR HIKING & CAMPING  IN THE ANDES 2023

The best headlamps on the market are vital tools for navigating in the dark for anyone who practices outdoor sports or camping. These activities are often carried out in geographical spaces where there is no public lighting, or when you must get up very early to explore the trails even in the dark, for which a flashlight will give you visibility while keeping your hands free, on your next trip or any outdoor adventure in the Andes is desirable to say the least. In fact, it could save your life in certain extreme situations (such as losing your balance on a steep slope or cliff). When you hit the trail at night, whether you planned it or not, a headlamp can become the most important part of your gear. You might have the best backpack or the best hiking boots, but without a headlamp, you might be better off staying at home. Flashlights have become increasingly sophisticated devices designed for different uses.

Whether you’re an accomplished night hiker or just get up to pee a lot in the middle of the night, almost every hiker needs handy, hands-free lighting from time to time. There are several features to consider when shopping for the best backpacking headlamps, from weight to battery life. In this guide, we highlight the best headlamps for when we have to explore the most famous hiking tours in the Andes this year. Not only that, but we’ve tested and reviewed the best headlamps for a variety of uses, so regardless of your needs or budget.

Among the waters of the Amazon is the greatest diversity of fish that exists in the world

The immense ecosystem of the Amazon Rainforest means looking for fish in the Amazon can be a pretty exciting experience. From the weird and wonderful to the outright bizarre-looking, the Amazon River is filled with fish, many of which you may have never heard of and may never find anywhere else. Covering around 30% of South America, the Amazon River Basin is home to well over 2,000 different species of fish that are endemic to the Amazon region, this includes 15,000 tributaries and a total length of 6,520 km. Brazil has some of the most interesting and biggest fish in the region, while plenty more reside in the waters of the other countries that are home to the Amazon River Fish.

The region creates and destroys river banks every year, and as a result, there are a large number of species that have become isolated in just one lake. In those large lakes, many fish evolve and branch away from their distant cousins until they, some thousands of years later through the flooded forest, are released into the main channel and reunited with the aquatic fauna.

This cycle has happened thousands of times in the Amazon lowland areas. It gets even more interesting when occasionally the isolated lakes dry up and many of the fish in the lake have adapted to air-breathing or gulping at the surface of the water, so much so that many fish can actually leave the lake to find water. This can be seen with the armored catfish and the electric eel species.

Amazon River Fish

10 Best Known Fish Species in the Amazon River:

The macaw is a species of bird in the parrot family

Macaws are one of the most charismatic and colorful species you will find in South America. Members of the larger parrot family, their size and vivid plumage, along with their rather noisy demeanor, make them hard to miss amongst the rainforest canopy. Here you will find the top facts about macaws, This beautiful and bright tropical bird that can be found in the Amazon rainforest and Pantanal regions.

Macaws are one of the symbols of the Peruvian Amazon. Their brilliant colors have captivated people from all over the world with beautiful images of them feeding in the collpas (clay deposits). Macaws, in addition to being impressive, are important components for life in the forest, since they disperse seeds and help trees regenerate. They are closely related to the aguaje (Mauritia flexuosa), a palm tree that serves as a nesting place.

top facts about macaws

THE BEST HIKING PANTS FOR EXPLORING THE ANDEAN MOUNTAINS

Get to know the updated list of the best hiking pants to explore the best landscapes in the Andes mountain range. Long pants are an advantage, as they naturally protect your legs from the sun. Mobility is a key feature and you need to make sure it fits perfectly. If they fit too tightly on your body, you will find yourself chafing and uncomfortable. If the pants are too baggy, you may get stuck on some branches on the way, or you may stumble and have trouble walking. Make sure that the pants do not restrict your freedom of movement, so that you feel comfortable during the walk.

Most hiking pants are made from materials with good stretch so you can move freely and naturally, and the best hiking pants have adjustable waist and ankle adjustments so you can adjust the pants to your body type. consequently. It is important to think carefully about what kind of activities you want to use the pants for. The pants you wear on long hikes in the mountains are not necessarily suitable for smaller hikes around the neighborhood.

There are countless hiking pants that can be used for a variety of activities, but there are a few things worth considering, such as the temperature and season in which you will be hiking. If it should be waterproof or not, and if it should be lined or not. When it comes to the material, we can distinguish between the soft stretch pants and the more resistant outer pants. Below we’ve rounded up some of the best hiking pants in each of the categories.

The strange and amazing species of the Amazon Rainforest

Known as the lungs of the world, the Amazon jungle region is an area that extends for around 7 million square kilometers! As expected, having 30% of the world’s flora and fauna, this is home to countless animal species of all kinds. The Amazon rainforest is home to a startling array of different species of flora and fauna, and the magic of evolution has resulted in some beautiful, fascinating, and in some cases, bizarre creatures of the amazon rainforest.

bizarre creatures of the amazon rainforest

Here are 10 of the most bizarre creatures you may have the pleasure – or misfortune – to come across on your vacation to the Amazon Rainforest:

The Sloth ( Bradypus tridactylus): Mammal of the Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon rainforest is known for its incredible biodiversity and is home to a rich assortment of fascinating wildlife. The sloths in the amazon rainforest, a crowd favorite, is one of the most interesting animals that call the Amazon home. These slow-moving tree-dwellers, aptly named after their very leisurely pace of life, top the list of exotic animals that travelers can see on vacation in the Amazon and won’t want to miss! Read on for sloth facts, photos, and everything else you need to know about sloths in the Amazon!

The Different Types of Sloths.
There are two different types of sloths, two-toed and three-toed, and six species:

All of these species can be found in the Amazon, however, the pygmy sloth is critically endangered and the maned sloth is currently listed as vulnerable.

sloths in the amazon rainforest

12 BEST DOWN JACKETS  TO EXPLORE THE MOST SPECTACULAR LANDSCAPES OF THE ANDES

Having some of the best down jackets on your next adventures should be an essential gear for hiking, backpacking, skiing, climbing and just about any other outdoor activity, a good down jacket is the key to staying warm and looking great. stylish wherever your active life takes you. But not all down jackets are the same. In fact, some of them may be complete scams as they will not provide you with all the necessary comfort that every athlete or trail explorer needs, otherwise your performance during walks over the highest passes of many circuits will be severely affected. trekking in the Andes mountain range.

This review of the best down jackets is the result of many years of experience, in which we and our high mountain guides have been using different models of down jackets. We tested the jackets in all kinds of environments and scenarios in the Andes, from short hikes to long expeditions, notoriously wet and cold spaces, to see how they perform under demanding conditions and extended use. Down jackets are very activity specific and you will need to find the right one for your purposes. From fast, light mid-season hikes to extremely cold weather, budget and high-end picks, here are our picks for the best men’s and women’s down jackets for all types of outdoor uses.

A Comprehensive Guide to the Endangered Animals of the Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon Rainforest has one of the highest levels of biodiversity on earth and is home to hundreds of thousands of animal, bird, and insect species. Unfortunately, this utopia of wildlife and vegetation is under attack and has been for some years now. Endangered Animals of the Amazon Rainforest, The culprits? Humans.

Since 1970, almost 310,000 square kilometers of the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest have been lost due to human activity. The reduction has slowed in recent years as a result of positive action by South American governments, but it remains a problem. Logging and cattle farming are largely responsible for this vast amount of deforestation.

Endangered Animals of the Amazon Rainforest

Nevertheless, the effect that this has had on the wildlife of the Amazon Rainforest is noticeable. Deforestation is not the only thing that causes animals to become endangered or extinct, climate change, illegal hunting, and contamination are also playing a role in destroying habitats and endangering animals. But deforestation is the leading cause of extinction in the Amazon Rainforest.

Every year, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) publishes a list of endangered animals. This list contains thousands of species in the Amazon Rainforest that are in danger of becoming extinct if nothing is done to protect them. Here are a few of the Amazon’s precious creatures that might not be around for much longer.

THE 10 BEST  SLEEPING PADS TO EXPLORE THE ANDES IN PERU

The sleeping pads should be an essential item when packing your hiking equipment. There are different materials, shapes and costs. A super important fact when buying one of the best sleeping pads is to know the benefits such as light weight, level of insulation from the cold, compactness and duration. We all know that after a long day of walking, what the body needs is to take a good rest. In this sense, a lot will depend on the weather conditions where the walk takes place, so for example you should not take a winter mat to an area where it is very hot.

If you are going to visit the Andes, specifically in Peru, its climates are very varied, from the valleys where there are temperate climates to the high peaks where there are extreme temperatures in the winter months of up to -20 C °. With these parameters it is good to take with you a good sleeping pad, that provides comfort and insulation from the cold. Sleeping surfaces are also quite irregular from flat terrain to steep or gravel fields. If you are an experienced hiker, surely you must already know the main challenges involved in embarking on a high mountain adventure, but this blog is about guiding you on the different types of mats that were tested by our mountain guides in the different hiking circuits, walks like the classics, Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Ausangate Trek, Quelccaya Icecap Trek among others.

 Exploring the Fascinating World of Hummingbirds

Facts About Hummingbirds (Trochilidae) are abundant in South America, the misty slopes of the Andes Mountains and enchanting swathes of Amazon Rainforest abuzz with some 140 different hummingbirds species. These nectar-loving Neotropical birds barely rest to let avid birdwatchers catch a glimpse, but they still manage to bewitch onlookers with their fluttering and fleeting presence, a blur of brilliant colors, bravado and aerial agility.

From the White-booted racket-tail (Ocreatus underwoodii) with its Ugg-like booties to the Marvelous spatuletail (Loddigesia mirabilis) with its remarkable tail reminiscent of a game of table tennis with violet-blue ping-pong paddles, the incredible biodiversity and bedazzling beauty of hummingbirds really is something to behold. For something so small, there is certainly an incredible amount of interesting facts about them. Here is a list of our favorite, fun and fascinating facts about hummingbirds.

Facts About Hummingbirds

Exploring the Fascinating Facts About Amazon Jaguars

These are top facts about jaguars. The jaguar is the most powerful cat in the Americas, with measures that reach up to 1.8 meters and a weight that can reach more than 130 kg. Jaguars are distributed from Mexico to Argentina, moving through a great diversity of habitats including dense jungles, swampy plains, and dry grasslands. For millennia as far as historical and archaeological records can reach, the jaguar has been a cultural icon in Latin America, a symbol of strength and courage. Peru has one of the most important jaguar bastions in the Amazon rainforest, due to the fact that there is a great variety of wild species such as peccaries, deer and other mammals, the main prey of jaguars.

The main threats to the survival of jaguars are hunting and habitat loss. These two causes go together, since the jaguar, when it is left without its natural habitat, begins to enter the areas intervened by people, approach houses or feed on cattle, and as a result, they are hunted by peasants.

top facts about jaguars

DISCOVERING THE TOP 10  FRUITS OF THE AMAZON RAINFOREST

Quinoa and maca, the famous Inca superfoods from the Andes mountain region, have already made their mark on North American and European diets, but as scientists expand their research, a new wave of fruits of the amazon rainforest, exotic fruits that are coming to the market. Deep in the Amazon rainforest, these nutrient-dense fruits have been eaten and used in dishes by indigenous Amazon communities for centuries for their variety of health benefits, but now they are beginning to garner worldwide attention.

You may be surprised to know that many of the fruits we enjoy in the Western world have their roots in the Amazon Rainforest. Mangoes, oranges, lemons, and many more all grow in the Amazon, but we only consume a tiny proportion of the 3,000 or so known to the people of these areas. Some of these Amazon rainforest fruits contain a huge number of vitamins and minerals, and if you go on an Amazon vacation, you should make sure you try each one for the unusual tastes alone – the health benefits are a plus!

fruits of the amazon rainforest

THE MOST INTERESTING POISON DART FROG FACTS: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

Poison dart frogs have long been used by the indigenous peoples of the Amazon rainforest of South America. They learned centuries ago that rolling a blow-dart or arrow tip over a live frog’s skin creates a coating of poison that can paralyze any animal, making it easier to hunt. Such weapons were used to combat the conquistadors, and are still used against enemy tribes and for hunting prey today. To help you learn more about these fascinating frogs, we’ve put together 12 interesting poison dart frogs facts we could find.

Interesting Poison Dart Frogs Facts

Interesting facts about poison dart frogs:

THE BEST TREKKING POLES TO EXPLORE THE ANDEAN MOUNTAINS

When you are going to explore the most famous hiking trails located in the different mountain ranges in the Andes, it is almost mandatory to take one of the best trekkin poles since the terrain is very steep and slippery, which with a minimum miscalculation of the steps could fall or slip. As is known, the Andes are located at altitudes of more than 4,000 meters where breathing is more difficult and a good trekking pole will give you extra energy to continue your adventure.

Trekking poles, also known as trekking poles or walking poles, trekking poles can provide stability and balance on the trail. They also reduce the chance of hip, back, knee or ankle injuries. This is because, when in use, they give us at least two to three points of contact with the ground at any one time, helping to distribute our weight. When transporting heavier or multi-day loads. As the terrain becomes more uneven, its practicality increases even more. When the trail ends, poles can help support your entire body as you navigate the bumps and potholes.

Trekking poles have long been considered an essential piece of gear for hikers and backpackers for their stability and support while trekking up and down with a loaded backpack. They help you walk and keep your balance on steep hills, rocky paths, and slippery snow-covered trails. They are made of different materials, come in different designs, and of course some are more expensive than others. We’ve tested a ton of popular options, taking them on runs, hikes, climbs, and scrambles to find the best trekking poles for all your outdoor adventures.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Hiking  Backpack

One of the most essential components when you think about doing some hiking activity, be it for a couple of hours or perhaps long expeditions, is to carry the best hiking backpack. Being the Andes a favorite place for hikers and adventurers to visit its impressive landscapes of mountains, glaciers, blue lakes and a lot of culture rich in customs and traditions.
Exploring the Andes will undoubtedly give you one of the greatest satisfactions regarding your quiet vacations and full of many energies that will return you home with a lot of adrenaline. In the typical hiking activities, be it through Patagonia, or the great trekking circuits of the Huaraz mountain range, the great Inca trail to Machu Picchu, the famous Ausangate Trek, it is vital to carry the best hiking backpack, with which you can transport all your outdoor items.
In the following list we have organized the best hiking backpacks according to their versatility and capacities. This list is the result of the multiple activities that we have been carrying out in high mountain sports as well as the reviews collected from the thousands of adventurers who have visited the Andes mountain ranges, and of course it is updated every year with the new technologies, that the best companies and manufacturers are launching into the outdoor market.

THE 12 BEST RAIN JACKETS TO KEEP YOU DRY IN THE ANDES

In our more than 20 years of experience as mountain guides on the different trails of the Andes of Peru, we have been able to experience the different weather conditions, from the most delicate and gentle drizzle to the most extreme storms. It is so that of all our excursions our travelers have highly valued all the recommendations that we have given them about the best rain jackets to wear, to avoid feeling very uncomfortable in adventures through the Andes; in case the outdoor team does not fulfill its work as such.

Since in a classic adventure that goes from 3 to 5 or more days, an experienced mountain explorer should bring at least two sets of rain jackets, that is because if your rain helmet is not one of the more efficient brands to control moisture and water seepage you can make use of the additional jacket, and much better if these jackets are light so as not to take up much space in your hiking backpack.

The rains in the Andes occur at any time and season of the year, there are no marked seasons like in Europe or North America. Likewise, the duration of the precipitations could occur from a couple of minutes or long hours. Given this, it is vital to bring a good rain helmet, or as additional help you can bring a rain poncho that will cover more parts of your body at the time of the walk. Here we have attached the best options on the market in terms of rain jackets tested by our guides and travelers, who passed the most demanding tests in terms of performance.

EXPLORING THE ANDES: THE BEST HIKING BOOTS FOR YOUR ADVENTURE

Best hiking boots are critical to your comfort and performance on the trail, but this no longer means a stiff and burly model that will weigh you down. The trend is toward lighter materials that still offer decent support, and waterproof boots are the most popular by far (some are offered in a non-waterproof version for hiking in hot or dry climates). Our picks for the best hiking boots of 2023 below are broken down into three categories: lightweight boots for day hiking and fastpacking, midweight options that work well for most backpacking trips, and heavyweights for rough terrain or hauling a large load.

The Andes mountain chain in South America offers a wide variety of natural attractions, the most outstanding of which are undoubtedly the mountains, glaciers and lakes surrounded by unusual landscapes. Every year thousands of adventurers and lovers of outdoor sports visit this great world destination for hiking tourism.

For this, if you are very passionate about discovering new trails and living a great adventure in the Andes, you should wear the best hiking boots, since this will give you great comfort on your feet. The weather is very changeable in the Andes, for which your mountain boot must be in very good condition, we are referring to the fact that it must withstand heavy rains, muddy trails, snowy passes and also hot environments. The terrain where you walk will be mostly rough, and full of gravel, so if your hiking boot does not have a good sole, it will certainly bring serious inconveniences to your feet, and what will make your walking pace not be the most versatile.

PACKING LIST TO VISIT THE AMAZON RAINFOREST: A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY

There are few undeniable facts that you have to realize before a trip to the Amazon Rainforest.  In the span of one day sunny blue skies may greet you in the morning, rain in the afternoon, and chilly temperatures in the evening. There is no escaping the humidity , shoes will get soaked, and the sun can beat down at midday. Tours from Amazon lodges, like the spotting the  wildlife, take the weather seriously. Trips start early in the morning, where the midst is thick and the creatures are stirring before retreating for cooler ground when the sun sets in.

Except for the occasional internal flight, we’ll be travelling through canoes, kayaks, vans and our own feet between the destinations. Remember, we may have to carry our bags short distances and if you can put everything on your back will be much better. It is important to remember that everyone is different when it comes to travel. Some people are happy traveling with just the bare minimum. Others like to purchase the highest quality equipment available. There is no right or wrong way to travel  it is completely up to your own needs & preferences.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TRAVELING TO THE AMAZON

The Amazon Rainforest is the largest jungle in the world covering 5.5 million square kilometers. There are thousands of species of plants and wildlife and millions of insects! So there is a lot to learn before visiting, especially to help tourists keep safe and prepared. So it is very important for visitors to learn these tips before visiting.

In the Amazon, you should be careful to stay with your tour group and professional guide while hiking, canoeing, and enjoying other activities. All our tours include professional tour guides, and we will arrange all transportation, transfers, hotels, and tours that we know personally and recommend highly.

Generally, it is safe to visit the Amazon Rainforest if you go on an organized tour. However, there are still some risks to visiting the rainforest, and you should be aware of these risks before you embark on your trip. To ensure you are properly prepared for your Amazon Rainforest adventure, keep reading to find out all about the Amazon Rainforest and the dangers and wonders concealed in its midst.

EXPLORING THE FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT THE AMAZON RAINFOREST

The Amazon Rainforest is located in South America and is the world’s largest tropical rainforest covering an area of 5,500,000 km2. Due to its large size, the Amazon rainforest covers a territory of nine nations with the biggest part of it in Peru and Brazil. The climate within the region is mainly tropical with hot, humid, and very wet conditions.

The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most fascinating places on Earth. Home to a large variety of plants, animals, and trees. As mysterious as it is breathtaking, the Amazon remains one of the most written about and studied ecosystems on earth. Here are a few facts you probably didn’t know about the great Amazon rainforest.

The Amazon rainforest also provides a home to many plants and animals and for this reason, it qualifies as a major tourist destination for the lovers of nature. The Amazon Rainforest holds many hidden wonders of nature. With an abundance of flora and fauna as well as indigenous culture, it’s safe to say that the Amazon has one of the richest ecosystems in the world.

WHICH REGION OF THE AMAZON RAINFOREST  IS THE BEST TO VISIT?

The Amazon Jungle is home to some of the most pristine rainforest in the world. The immense biodiversity provides endless opportunities for wildlife spotting, with jungle lodges, rainforest treks and riverboat cruises catering to adventurous travellers who come to this fascinating part of Peru.

It’s not only the geography that sets the Peruvian Amazon apart from the rest of the country. Culturally, too, the Amazon is distinct. The scattered jungle cities are often a heady mix of fun, frivolity and river port activity, where Peruvians have a laid back but friendly attitude, always ready to drink and dance. Then there’s the jungle cuisine with its seemingly boundless range of unfamiliar fruits, fish, and strange liquors with aphrodisiac qualities. And beyond the urban areas lie indigenous communities, many of whom steadfastly hold on to their traditions, including the sacred knowledge of the shamans and their jungle medicine.

However Peru is a big country, and the Amazon Rainforest is even bigger, so if you are thinking of travelling to the jungle in Peru you may be thinking “which is the best jungle region to visit in Peru?”. Each jungle region has its own subtle nuances, its own strengths and weaknesses, and it is important you choose the right jungle region to visit that will suit your own travel expectations and personal requirement.

The Best Tourist Places in the Peruvian Jungle to visit

The Peruvian jungle is part of the Amazon. This territory in northeastern Peru, filled with a lush expanse of mountains and plains, has mighty rapids and green vegetation, among other attractions. It occupies 62% of the territory of that country.
The abundant biological diversity of the area is one of the great attractions of the Peruvian jungle. This vast expanse of territory, bathed by the Amazon River, has impressive landscapes, so if you go on a trip, you will have fun capturing its beauty in videos and photographs while making contact with its native peoples.

Due to its geographical conditions, touring this beautiful land is a unique challenge. To start the trip, the most practical thing is to take a flight from Lima to Iquitos, which is an hour away. Another way to access it is by road from the capital of Peru to the Ucayali river and from there take a boat, which will take five days. The Peruvian jungle offers an infinite number of places to stay, from comfortable hotels to beautiful lodges within the reach of any budget. An added bonus is that these rest spots include all meals. So, a wonderful adventure begins where you will get to know the best of the Peruvian jungle.

Why visit the Peruvian Amazon at least once in your life!

Traveling through the Peruvian Amazon is one of the best ways to be in contact with nature. More than half of the Peruvian territory is Amazon jungle. One of the best places to travel to Peru is the Peruvian Amazon, since it has magical landscapes and many things that even tourists do not know.

There are few places in the world as beautiful as the peruvian Amazon. This untouched part of the world offers unique opportunities for site seeing and exploration. When you visit this lush, tropical part of South America, you will encounter a whole new world, one that holds value and importance to the entire planet.

There are countless reasons to visit the peruvian Amazon. Whether it’s to sample the local culture or experience wildlife, your eyes will be opened to the incredible wonders of nature. The rain forests of South America are part of the earth’s rain forests, containing more than 50% of the world’s plant and animal life. Additionally, tropical rainforests provide 20% of the oxygen we breathe.

 

Best time to travel to the Amazon Rainforest in Peru

Peru is a country that can be visited throughout the year, but it is important to know what is the best time to travel to the Amazon Rainforest, since depending on the weather we can do some activities or others. To help you choose the best time to visit the Amazon Rainforest with info about weather, seasons, and rainforest travel.

It’s worth mentioning that the best time to visit the Amazon Rainforest will depend on your personal preference. You may choose the drier months or you might prefer the wetter months when the forest is fruiting and flowering. Because you can have a fantastic experience no matter when you travel, the main consideration for visiting the Amazon Rainforest is the lodge or cruise you pick, as your experience depends mainly on the quality of guides and service.

You can really visit the Amazon any time of year. The expansive Amazon rainforest extends across more than six countries, from Bolivia & Peru through Ecuador and Colombia to Venezuela, and Brazil. But despite its immense size, the weather patterns of this tropical rainforest do not change much from season to season, characterized by daily rain, humidity, and heat. It is said that the two similarly hot & humid seasons of the Amazon are “rainy” and “rainier.”

CAN I VISIT THE AMAZON RAINFOREST OF PERU WITH CHILDRENS

Traveling to the Peruvian Amazon rainforest is living a unique and enriching experience. Entering this region and contemplating how the geography gives way to an endless green landscape of forests and rivers that are lost on the horizon, is the starting point of an unforgettable journey where you will not only discover new cultures or incredible places, but it is also an opportunity to get away from the lethargy of the city and reconnect with yourself.

And it is that the Amazonian forest of Peru hosts throughout its territory a paradise of biodiversity that, how could it be otherwise, is complemented by a special gastronomy that captivates with its variety of ingredients and flavors. Without a doubt, the Peruvian Amazon is the ideal place to continue expanding your mind with new sensations in the midst of all the power and magnitude that nature offers.

 

New Circuits to visit Machu Picchu

* There are 4 routes to enter Machu Picchu, that is, 4 different ways to tour the citadel and where you can see it in different ways. It is a choice that you will have to make, so we will tell you all the details of each one.

* If you wish to visit 2 or more circuits then you will have to purchase more than one ticket, remember that re-entry to Machu Picchu is not allowed once you have left the citadel, nor are tickets to Machu Picchu sold at the gate. entry.

* All visitors must present their ticket at the time of entering the Inca citadel, and this will also be the one that will dictate our schedule and circuit.

Recommendations:

  • Buy the Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu in advance (It is recommended 2 months before your visit to Machu Picchu), the demand for the purchase of entrance tickets to Machu Picchu is high and it runs out in a short time. Tickets to Machu Picchu per day are limited.
  • Buying your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu in advance allows you to choose any of the 4 circuits without restrictions (Tickets sold out).
  • Once you buy the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu there are NO refunds or transfers.
  • Verify the schedules of the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and prevent inconveniences when entering the Inca citadel.

How to Experience the Most Stunning Island of Lake Titicaca

Taquile Island is one of the many islands that has the highest lake in Peru, Lake Titicaca. This charming place has been inhabited for thousands of years, its inhabitants speak Quechua and their lifestyle has changed little or nothing over the years. The people of Taquile Island are experts in textiles and their technique is inherited from generation to generation. Taquile Island is home to a population of just over 2,000 people, descendants of an ancient community that, to this day, retains many of its ancient customs.

This island is located in Puno and has a total area of ​​11 square kilometers. The island is considered one of the 15 most beautiful islands on lakes in the world and that every tourist should visit at least once in their life.

The main attraction of the island is concentrated in experiential tourism, based on contact with the customs and tasks of the people who inhabit it. Living with the people of Taquile will allow you to learn about the different myths and beliefs that their people have. If you want to know the festive spirit of the Island of Taquile and live with its people during the days of celebration, you can visit the town, especially during its Folkloric Fair that is celebrated between the last week of July and the first week of August, and where different interpretations of traditional dances are presented.

Taquile Island

The Archaeological Center of Chinchero is little known by travelers, however, it has interesting attractions. So, if you plan to get to know Cusco and Machu Picchu on a tour, you cannot fail to include your visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas and get to know Chinchero.

Chichero is one of the 7 districts of the Urubamba province, Cusco department. It is also known as the city of the Rainbow, because it is surrounded by beautiful panoramas of the Andes mountain range demarcated by the imposing snowy Salkantay, Verónica and Soray “Apus Tutelares of the Cusco region” and lagoons such as Huaypo and Piuray.

Chinchero was the place chosen by the Inca Túpac Yupanqui to settle his residence where he built his palace, where the Church of the Virgin Nativity was built on the Inca settlement, in it you can see a combination of colonial and Inca construction. In addition, its traditions and culture are still alive.

Chinchero

The Magnificent Architecture of Chan Chan Mud City

The ancient citadel of Chan Chan is considered the largest pre-Columbian adobe building in the world. Without comparison worldwide, its extension and quality of its reliefs have made it famous, and it annually receives visitors from all over the world.

Chan Chan belongs to the Chimu culture, which built an empire in the coastal valleys of the La Libertad region more than a thousand years ago. The citadel itself dates back to the 9th century AD, and its name means “Sun Sun”. Its size, complexity and structure suggest that it was the most important urban and administrative center of the Chimu empire.

Chan Chan stands out for its adobe walls, which have stood the test of time, have a trapezoidal shape and reach a height of up to twelve meters. These walls were joined with mud, and supplemented with wood and straw to form lintels and roofs.

The sector known as the citadel is made up of various houses (Chayhuac, Big House, Little House, Bird House, etc.), which are believed to be the rooms where the Chimu rulers would have lived together with their court. The sector stands out for the excellently crafted high-reliefs that decorate its walls, with motifs of birds and fish. The curious thing is that, when they died, the houses of the rulers became their tombs, along with a good part of their court.

Within the complex there is currently a site museum, which keeps on display various objects found in the excavation of Chan Chan, such as Chimu pottery, stone pieces and bone remains.

LOCATION CITADEL OF CHAN CHAN

The citadel of Chan Chan is located in the Moche Valley, facing the sea, halfway between the resort of Huanchaco and the city of Trujillo, capital of the department of La Libertad on the north coast of Peru. The archaeological site covers an area approximately 20 square kilometers. The central area is made up of a set of 10 walled enclosures (called “citadels”) and other solitary pyramids. This central set covers an area of ​​approximately 6 square kilometers. The rest is made up of a multitude of small poorly preserved structures, paths, canals, walls and cemeteries.

citadel of Chan Chan

NAZCA LINES: A WINDOW INTO AN ANCIENT CIVILIZATION’S LEGACY

The Nazca Lines are located 450 kilometers south of Lima, in the department of Ica. Due to its many attractions, it is a city with a lot of tourist activity, with visitors from different cities in the country as well as from abroad.

We owe much of what we know about these lines to Maria Reiche Newman (1903-1998), a German archaeologist and mathematician, nationalized Peruvian, who dedicated her entire life to conserving, researching and making known to the world the enormous geoglyphs, converted today one of the main attractions of our country. For this reason, near the lines you will find the House Museum that bears his name, where he explains part of his research.

Nazca Lines

The Lord of Sipán: Discovering the Marvels of Moche Metalwork and Jewelry

In the 20th century, after the discovery of the ruins of Machu Picchu, in 1911, and the tomb of Tutankhamun, in 1922, no other archaeological remains have moved the scientific world or aroused as much curiosity among the public as the discovery of the burial chamber of the Lord of Sipan, listed as the most important in recent decades.

Although it may seem hard to believe, most Peruvians and tourists know very little about the different pre-Columbian cultures of Peru, except for the Inca Empire and its iconic citadel: Machu Picchu. Many were not even aware that there were dozens of cultures in Peru prior to the Incas, and that they had a significant influence on them. The Moche Culture, which dominated northern coastal Peru from AD 100 to 700. C., is one of these impressive ancient civilizations. The finding of the Lord of Sipan consists of a completely intact tomb of a Moche ruler, considered one of the most transcendental archaeological discoveries of Peru and America.

GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION OF THE LORD OF SIPAN

Sipán, called Siec in the extinct Mochica language, is located in the northern part of the Peruvian coast, in the Lambayeque Valley, 35 kilometers east of the city of Chiclayo. You reach that town, nestled in the Pomalca Cooperative, by a paved road.
the lord of sipan

GOCTA THE MAJESTIC WATERFALL IN THE JUNGLE – CHACHAPOYAS

Peru is known for its beautiful and spectacular landscapes: the ruins of Machu Picchu, the fabulous Lake Titicaca, the Paracas National Reserve or the Amazon River. And now also for the spectacular Gocta Falls.

Between huge and leafy mountains is majestic one of the great wonders of the department of Amazonas: The Gocta Falls. With 771 meters of altitude, it is one of the largest waterfalls in the world and, due to its incredible landscapes, reaching it is an excursion that will be marked in your memories as one of those trips that are difficult to forget.

Where is the Gocta Falls located?

The Gocta Falls are located in the department of Amazonas, specifically in the province of Bongará, in the middle of the Peruvian jungle and 50 kilometers from Chachapoyas, the closest city. Its location is a real wonder, since it is surrounded only and exclusively by nature, with incredible fauna and flora, which makes it, if possible, an even more beautiful place.

Gocta Falls

THE COLCA CANYON HABITAT OF THE ANDEAN CONDOR

The Colca Canyon is located in a river valley in southern Peru and is famous for being one of the deepest in the world. It is a famous destination for trekking. It is a habitat of the giant Andean condor, which can be seen from viewpoints such as the condor cross. The canyon landscape encompasses a green valley and remote traditional villages with terraced agriculture that predates the Incas. The Colca River is popular for rafting.

Through the Colca Valley we can find samples of ichu and yareta, characteristic vegetation of the area and some animals such as alpacas and vizcachas, a species of medium-sized rodents similar to chinchillas.

Colca Canyon

THE FORTRESS OF KUELAP: THE MYSTIC MACHU PICCHU OF NORTHERN PERU

The fortress of Kuelap, in the department of Amazonas (Peru) is the most important archaeological complex in the jungle of northern Peru. A place that you cannot miss if you are traveling through Peru, which in addition to being immersed in an incredible landscape, is the cradle of one of the most important cultures in the country: the Chachapoyas. Get ready to start a journey through this imposing building protected by a huge wall.

Until recently it was only possible to reach the place on foot. Today, thanks to the modern cable cars that depart from Nuevo Tingo, access has been made easier. However, if you are a trekking lover, you will surely want to get to the place on foot. The geography is impressive: a fortress surrounded by cliffs and precipices on three of its four sides. Around him, the heights of the Andes and the Amazon jungle blend perfectly in the landscape in a unique postcard.

The fortress of Kuelap

Huacachina Oasis: A Taste of Tradition and Culture in Peru’s Desert Jewel

The Huacachina oasis, in Ica, is a magical place. Its beautiful dunes, sunsets and lagoons make this setting the perfect place to have a date, have fun with friends or reflect on life.

In a landscape full of palm trees, eucalyptus and huarangos. The Huacachina oasis dazzles curious eyes, awakens the imagination and becomes an unmissable attraction for those who visit Ica. The Huacachina oasis is surrounded by kilometers of fine sand dunes that are used by tourist agencies to organize excursions in 4×4 buggies and practice adventure sports such as sandboarding.

Huacachina Oasis

 Exploring the Unique Culture of the Uros People on Floating Islands

The Uros of Peru have been living for centuries on the floating islands of the Uros artificial that they themselves build and they are one of the most striking cases that exist of a people that has survived thanks to ultra specialization, in this case of a single vegetable product: the totora, an aquatic reed that grows in Titicaca lake.

They have been here since pre-Inca times and are currently spread over some 87 artificial islands, each inhabited by a family clan. They have traditionally dedicated themselves to fishing and hunting waterfowl as a complement to their diet. The surplus was exchanged on the coast for corn, potatoes, rice and other materials that are vital for them: for example, vegetable ropes and eucalyptus stakes to tie their islands to the bottom of the lake so that the currents do not carry them away.

The floating islands of the Uros

TIPS FOR CHOOSING A SLEEPING BAG FOR HIKING

What is the difference between a camping sleeping bag and a sleeping bag for hiking? In general, camping bags offer plenty of room to move around, while backpacking bags are lightweight and comfortable. If you are going to use one bag for both activities, choose a backpack style because you need it to be lightweight if you are going to carry it in a backpack.

Cusco is a city in the mountains of Peru with 3,399 mt. above sea level, therefore it is a city where it is quite cold compared to other cities in the north or jungle of Peru. The tours offered by the city of Cusco are the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu, Lares Trek, Ausangate Trek, Salkantay Trek, etc. They are walks that in some sections reach higher temperatures than in the center of the city.

The Ultimate Ausangate Trek: A Complete Guide for Adventure Seekers

The Ausangate trek is a “little” gem among the attractions of the Cusco region of Peru. To 100 km southeast of Cusco is the impressive Vilcanota mountain range. The mountain range has several peaks over 6,000 meters, including the sacred Ausangate (6372m), the highest mountain in the Cusco region. It is not very popular among millions of tourists that visit the more famous Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.  The full circuit, is a six day affair although it can be done in a shorter time.  There are a few variations of the track, one ends at the Rainbow Mountain, other cuts across the front of the range.  There is also a longer version that traverses the entire range of Cordillera Vilcanota.

The Ausangate Trek is renowned for its otherworldly natural scenery. It’s considered by many to be one of the world’s best high-altitude treks, the trek takes hikers over several high passes, into low alpine valleys, and through traditional Peruvian villages. You’ll see snow-capped peaks, herds of llamas, glaciers, and turquoise lakes, all within a stunningly beautiful mountain range. You will also have the opportunity to see the Rainbow Mountains of Vinicunca!

Altitude Sickness Prevention: Essential Tips for High-Altitude Travelers

You don’t have to be climbing the highest mountain in the world to encounter altitude sickness. Anyone hiking, trekking, or just hanging out several thousand feet above sea level can be affected. Most cases of altitude sickness are mild, but some can be fatal. Symptoms usually appear hours after arriving at a high-altitude location. They include headache, nausea, shortness of breath and, in addition, inability to do physical activity. Mild cases resolve within one to three days. Severe cases may require oxygen, medication, and transfer to a lower altitude.

Altitude sickness is a physical discomfort that usually occurs when visiting a place located at a high altitude. In Peru, the destinations at the highest altitudes are Cusco, the Colca Canyon in Arequipa, Huaraz or Puno. The Mountain of Colors Palccoyo in Cusco at 4900 m.

LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU, A REAL CONNECTION WITH THE QUECHUAS, WISE MEN OF THE ANDES!

The Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu through Lares is one of the many options of the Inca Trail that leads to Machu Picchu. Every Lares trek to Machu Picchu includes some transportation from Huaran to Ollantaytambo and from there you take a train to Aguas Calientes, most choose to do it in 4 days. Of those 4 days, you are effectively only trekking for 3 days. The fourth day is spent in Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas. As for the actual itinerary of the route, there are a number of variations on the Lares trek and most of them end in Ollantaytambo.
The Lares trek is not just an alternative to the overloaded Classic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu. The Lares trek has a lot to offer for people looking for a combination of nature, history and local culture. The walks depart from Cusco and take you to the Lares hot springs. Before you tie your laces and get ready for the hike, you’ll relax your muscles in the hot springs. After you have enjoyed the hot water, you will want to take it easy, so on the first day you only walk for about 2 hours.

From the town of Quiswarani (sometimes also Wacawasi) the trek continues through the 4,300m high Condor Pass to the community of Canchachanca. This is where the tour distinguishes itself from others in the Cusco region. You will most likely interact a lot with the local Quechuas. The last section to Huaran or Pumamarka is the crown of the route. Here you prepare little by little to discover the icing on the cake, Machu Picchu.

Lares Trek Peru is a couple of days hike, and the beginning of the road is from the sacred valley of the Incas. So this Lares Adventure in Peru is quite famous for the mountain lovers with connection to Machupicchu Inca site and recommended trekking in an organized group since this hike is through the Andes mountain.

Moreover, this trek goes through some remote villages, where live the living Culture people in houses made of stone and thatched roofs, also they farm different types of potatoes in an organic way since they fertilize the soil with the llamas and alpacas animals manure, so that means they raise these native llamas and alpacas, through the Lares trek mountains.

Furthermore, this Lares Trek In Peru is one of the well-recommended trail, as an alternative to the traditional Inca trail hike to Machupicchu. It is a slightly hilly road and higher in altitude than the traditional Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu, and the most important no needing an official permit neither is limited the number of people to hike Lares Trek in Peru with connection to the Machu Picchu city.

DATA AND TIPS TO CHOOSE YOUR TREKKING POLES

KNOW HOW TO CHOOSE TREKKING POLES FOR THE INCA TRAIL HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU

Cusco is the perfect place to start a trekking adventure since it has varied walks that mostly end with the wonderful visit to Machu Picchu. If you are thinking of starting this adventure, you have to know how to choose trekking poles for the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu? Trekking poles could help your performance on travel days. Trekking and hiking are mountain activities that have become very fashionable. To walk through this type of terrain and be able to enjoy it, it is necessary to be well equipped. There are different types of canes that suit personal needs. If you don’t know which one is ideal for you, take note. We teach you how to choose hiking poles. Follow these tips to get yours and enjoy nature doing mountain activities.

Epic Journeys: Ranking the 8 Best Treks to Machu Picchu

Peru is breath-taking country. The Andean highlands, where our trips are  based, is literally so. But more than just the thin air of the high altitude cities, the well-preserved ancient stonework, the incredible textiles, and the friendliest people you could hope to meet will all equally take your breath away. Peru is a hidden gem. Without the crowds of the Alps or Rockies, Peru still feels like the kind of spectacular landscape where you could get lost for hours (don’t worry, we won’t let you) and not encounter a soul. Yet, the trails and dirt roads which snake out across the valleys in mountains make the Sacred Valley, Ausangate, Lares, Anascocha and surrounding highland areas a dream come true for hikers. We present the best treks to Machu Picchu.

Our adventure starts in the beautiful city of Cusco, highlighted by amazing cuisine and the unique hybrid architecture that is one part Inca Stone and one part Spanish Cathedral, a must see. From there, we’ll head to our best places to start one of our best treks to Machu Picchu.

The mountains around Cusco offers an unending supply of trekking adventures and amazing alternative treks to Machu Picchu, that are sure to satisfy everyone, from the expert mountaineer to the weekend hiker, the history buff to the nature lover. The Peruvian Andes have something for everyone! At Andean Great Treks, we specialize in offering unique, alternative Machu Picchu Treks. Here are some of our favourites!

There’s nothing like the satisfaction of approaching Machu Picchu on one’s own two feet, which is why the classic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu has become so popular in recent years. The time when a traveler could roll into Cusco and set up an Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu for the following day—or week, or month—has long since passed, though. To limit damage to the trail, the Peruvian government now limits access to 500 persons per day, porters included. Permits for the peak summer season sell out months in advance.

Fortunately, the Inca were master road builders who blazed trails all throughout the Andes, and many of these are alternate routes to Machu Picchu (or at least you get as close as a quick train ride). Here are we listed the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu, most of which require no permits and can be arranged through Andean Great Treks. Some of these hikes are available in multiple variations and can be tailored to meet a particular fitness level.

The Ultimate Guide to a Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu

The short Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu 2 days is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful treks. It is a unique style hiking, with spectacular views of the Andes chain, a great mix of jungle and you will enjoy from beginning to end. The authentic sites of South America’s most-popular country, Peru, come to life before your eyes on our short Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu 2 days.

The short Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu 2 days has long been a dream destination for explorers and adventurers. The short inca trail hike to Machu Picchu 2 days can be challenging at times, but priceless rewards await you along the way. For bird enthusiasts, the famous short inca trail hike to Machu Picchu 2 days takes this already amazing experience to a whole new level. The exceptionally unique environment of the Amazon rainforest offers once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for bird watching, making the trail worthwhile. In the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, around 400 species of birds were discovered, of which 50% can be seen while doing the short inca trail hike to Machu Picchu 2 days.

The Short Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu 2 days is a unique opportunity for those who may not have as much time to hike the entire Inca Trail. This trek combines highlights from the Classic 4 days Inca Trail, with some of the most beautiful Inca ruins nestled in the cloud forest’s dense vegetation. Enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) late in the afternoon and therefore have the unique opportunity to see the city almost empty.

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days, is perfect for families with children as it is only one-day hiking, and the next day you explore the citadel of Machu Picchu. This tour allows you to arrive at Machu Picchu twice through the Sun Gate.

BIRDS ON THE SHORT INCA TRAIL HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU

The birds of the short inca trail  hike to Machu Picchu 2 days are very picturesque and showy birds. Since, we can find many species of low jungle and high jungle of Peru. For this reason, they are mostly birds of beautiful colors and shapes. Those who live in the “Cloud Forest” of the short Inca trail hike to machu picchu 2 days. However, let us remember that this area has a considerable concentration of clouds and fogs. As a consequence, we will find ecosystems with a lot of epiphytism. In the internal forests of the short Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu 2 days we will find humid montane forests with trees less than 20 meters high. Also, the branches and trunks of many trees are covered by mosses, bromeliads, orchids, ferns, and other epiphytes. They also have areas where Chusquea-type shrubs and bamboo predominate.

INCA ASTRONOMICAL PRACTICES: A WINDOW INTO AN ADVANCED PRE-COLUMBIAN CIVILIZATION

INCA  ASTRONOMY: The Inca civilization in Peru gave great importance to astronomy. They were the only culture in the world that defined the constellations of light and darkness. The Incas not only identified individual constellations and stars, but also assigned them a purpose. They believed that everything in our world and its surroundings was connected. Contemplating a starry night sky is magical. People have always been fascinated with the stars and tried to find meaning in what they saw in the sky.
Astronomy was one of the most important studies for the Inca civilization and, of course, they developed it very well. They were able to define constellations, stars, the passage of time, the change of seasons, etc. The Inca city of Machu Picchu is completely built according to the sun; The same goes for the old buildings in the city of Cusco, whose streets were designed to mimic their constellations.

CREATION OF THE “AUSANGATE” REGIONAL CONSERVATION AREA

According to Article N ° 2 of the aforementioned supreme decree, the objective of the ACR Ausangate Cusco Regional Conservation Area is to conserve a representative sample of the Puna ecoregion of the Central Andes of Cusco, which contains a high biological, landscape and water regulation value.

The snowy Ausangate is considered a guardian Apu in Cusco, due to its imposing presence and intimate religious-cultural connection that exists with the local population since the time of our ancestors. Its location, the Andean ecosystems, the permanent and quality water services it offers, the high Andean lagoons and the landscapes associated with this glacier, make Ausangate a very important place for its conservation.

Through the publication of Supreme Decree No. 012-2019-Minam, the Peruvian State recently formalized the creation of the Ausangate Regional Conservation Area (ACR) in Cusco, in order to conserve the vast biological wealth available to the place.

This natural area comprises an area of ​​66,514 hectares and is located between the district of Ocongate (Quispicanchi) and the districts of Pitumarca and Checacupe (Canchis), which as of this date are delimited for the respective protection works.

The extension includes the snowfall of the Ausangate massif and the areas associated with it, so the ACR will contribute to the reduction of the vulnerability of fragile species and ecosystems to climate change and thereby ensure the ecosystem services they provide for the benefit local, regional and national.

The supreme decree also stipulates that the administration and financing of the ACR Ausangate will be fully covered with the institutional budget of the Regional Government of Cusco, responsible in addition to reporting the state of conservation of the perimeter, according to the coordination and procedures established by the National Service of Natural Areas Protected by the State (Sernanp), which in turn will provide guidance and technical support to make ACR management a success.

ACR Ausangate Cusco

REFORESTATION OF A MILLION TREES TO SAVE THE MACHU PICCHU

As part of the reforestation campaign “One million trees in 10 years for the Machu Picchu historical sanctuary”, our company Andean Great Treks, operator of the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu, has played the reforestation of trees in Machu Picchu, with the support of our administrative staff, tour guides, chefs, porters, in the initial sector of the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu KM 82 Piscakucho, Misquipuquio at 3800 masl.

Campaign seeks to reforest 11 thousand hectares of land of protected natural area of ​​Cusco. Initiative seeks to recover areas degraded by forest fires. Strengthening the image of Machu Picchu as an eco-sustainable natural wonder, the National Service of Natural Areas Protected by the State (SERNANP) relaunched last Tuesday the campaign “A Million Trees for Machu Picchu and its buffer zone”. Specialists from the Ministry of Environment argue the need to plant trees in the ecological belt (buffer zone) that allows to protect the archaeological sanctuary and the surrounding flora and fauna.

The ancient capital of the Inca Empire (15th and 16th centuries), located in the Machu Picchu district, Urubamba province, 80 kilometers northwest of the city of Cusco, has been threatened for years by heavy rains that cause landslides in winter and fires in summer.

reforestation of trees in Machu Picchu

KNOW THE NEW TOURIST ATTRACTION OF CUSCO “APUKUNAQ TIANAN”

13 kilometers from the main square of Cusco, is “The abode of the Gods Cusco”, this magical place, dazzles visitors with huge works of art made of stone, these sculptures were made by Michael Monteagudo Mejia, better known as the Titan.
If you want to get to this place, you have to go to the final whereabouts of Sencca, (through the Tica Tica arch) 13 kilometers from the Plaza de Armas of Cusco, there walking about 30 minutes along the road, or by car about 10 minutes , until we reach a reservoir and there we find the stone sculptures.

The abode of the Gods Cusco

The Wonders of Manu: Discovering the Beauty of the Amazon Rainforest

Manu the Amazon Rainforest near Cusco: “Where can I live an experience in the jungle?” “Can we go to some jungle near Cusco?”, Are some questions we ask ourselves when we arrive in the capital of the Inca Empire. We are surrounded by a mountainous landscape, with forest and arid areas. But we feel far from jungle geography. And it is not like that. A few hours from Cusco we can enter the Madre de Dios region, which borders the region of Cusco and Brazil at its sites.

Manu the Amazon Rainforest

QUELCCAYA : THE LARGEST TROPICAL GLACIER IN THE WORLD, LOCATED IN  CUSCO

Cusco has different natural destinations ideal to live an unforgettable experience. One of them is the Quelccaya glacier, located in Cusco, which is considered one of the wonders of the country. Today, we invite you to know this beautiful place.

10 Reasons to Make Machu Picchu Your Next Destination

Imposing, magical, incomparable, unique are the common names to describe Machu Picchu. This city was built during the 15th century in the middle of two mountains on the border between the Andes and the Amazon, in the Urubamba river valley known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas, at 2,260 meters of altitude; He has received dozens of titles, one of the best known is Wonder of the World. You can arrive on an organized tour; but it comes alone, knowing that you must book the tickets for Machu Picchu weeks in advance, unless of course you want to enter the Huayna Picchu mountain, the available tickets from Machu Picchu to enter this mountain must be booked months in advance . We knew you had yours, but we will show you 6 reasons to visit Machu Picchu.

SPECTACLED BEAR IN MACHU PICCHU

It is normal to see spectacled bear in Machu Picchu is considered a historical and natural heritage by UNESCO, in addition to its incredible structures, you can see beautiful species of animals, plants and insects. The historic and natural sanctuary of Machu Picchu houses, among all plant species, about 450 species of orchids and nowhere else in the world can you find so many. Hundreds of animal species, among which are the bear and the cock of the rocks in danger of extinction.

THE MOST IMPORTANT FESTIVALS IN CUSCO

The Important Festivals in Cusco, There are unique dates that make the trip to the Capital of the Incas a magical experience: Carnivals, Easter, Corpus Christi, Inti Raymi, Christmas, New Years, are just some of the most important festivals celebrated by the population of Cusco. Get to know the tradition and the joy that the city “Navel of the World” radiates during those days.

LIST OF TIPS TO SAVE ON YOUR TRIP TO CUSCO

How to save in Cusco? Most of us have wanted to travel for a long time, but reality hits us hard when we have to go through our pockets and see that it is not as simple as we hope, so saving is essential. However, today it is a reality to be able to travel on a limited budget. If your destination is Cusco, this list with tips will help you enough to make that dream come true.

Exploring the Rich Flavors of Peruvian Gastronomy: A Culinary Journey

Peruvian gastronomy occupies a very prominent place throughout the world, becoming considered by the French newspaper Le Monde as one of the three great kitchens of humanity, along with the Chinese and French, although in international gastronomy competitions it also competes With Indian cuisine.

The immense variety of ingredients that exists in Peruvian lands, thanks to the geographic territory with which we have is one of the factors why our cuisine is full of wealth.

The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: What You Need to Know

Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu: 10 things you must know to do the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu. If you choose to enter the Wonder of the World for this impressive trekking route, there are a few things you need to know.

1.- WHEN TO BOOK THE INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

The Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu is one of the 5 best walks in the world. But there is a great demand for tickets. For this reason, you must reserve your income in advance.

Please note the following before reserving the ticket for the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu:

• The income for the Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu ran out 6 months before. Remember that only 500 people can do this route every day.
• Only 200 people enter Machu Picchu through this route, the rest belong to the support team, cooks, porters and guides.
• The entrance to the Inca trail only includes the Inca city of Machu Picchu. If you want to visit the Machu Picchu mountain or the Huayna Picchu; request it at the tourism agency.
• The purchase of the income for the Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu is through our website. We are an authorized tourism agency.

ALL ABOUT THE INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 

In this article we will answer questions about the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.

1.- HOW LONG DOES THE INCA TRAIL LAST?

The duration is according to the tour you do; the most famous is the tour of the Classic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu 4 days and 3 nights and you reach a maximum height of 4200 masl; The second is the short Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu 2 days and 1 night and you reach a maximum height of 2650 meters.

We also have other alternative adventure tours to the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu: the so-called “Inca Jungle” that consists of cycling and walking until you reach the Inca citadel and lasts 4 days and 3 nights; Finally there is the walking tour to Machu Picchu through the snowy Salkantay which lasts 5 days and 4 nights.

The Classic Inca Trail: A Trekker’s Paradise and Its Hidden Wonders

Classic Inca Trail 4 days 3 nights shows you its exquisite beauty and natural environment. Along the Inca trail you will see archaeological sites from the Inca period, surrounded by vegetation that give the impression of being discovered for the first time. The Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is one of the 5 best treks in the world and Machu Picchu is the end point of this wonderful tour. This hiking trail is the most amazing way to get your first view of the Wonder of the World, just as the Incas did almost 600 years ago.

classic inca trail

HOW MANY KILOMETERS IS THE INCA TRAIL HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU?

There are different Inca trail tours including alternative treks to get to Machu Picchu each of the tours with different experiences and traditions of the areas where it will be traveled. The duration time is according to the tour you take; the most famous is the Classic Inca Trail that lasts 4 days and 3 nights and reaches a maximum height of 4200 meters above sea level; the second is the short Inca Trail tour of 2 days and 1 night and you reach a maximum height of 2650 meters above sea level. We also have other alternative adventure tours: the so-called “Inca Jungle” that consists of biking and hiking until reaching the Inca citadel and lasts 4 days and 3 nights; Finally, there is the trekking tour to Machu Picchu through the Salkantay snowy which lasts 5 days and 4 nights.

how long is the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: A Trekker’s Paradise

Where is the inca trail hike to Machu Picchu? It is located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, in Cusco, capital of the ancient Inca empire and the citadel of Machu Picchu. The alternation of mountains and valleys along the walk offers an incredible and very diversified spectacle. It is situated in the Andes mountain range, the Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu passes through different types of Andean environments including green forests and rocky roads. Settlements, tunnels and many Inca ruins are found along the way before ending at the Puerta del Sol on the mountain of Machu Picchu.

The Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu begins at kilometer 82 of the railway that leads to Machu Picchu (2 hours and 30 minutes by bus from the city of Cusco). At the checkpoint we meet our porters and we will pass the passport control and the Inca trail tickets. However, Machu Picchu is not the only archaeological site that you will see on the Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu. On the tour you will also appreciate the ruins of Llactapata, the archaeological site of Runkurakay, Saycamarca, Phuyupatamarca and Wiñaywayna.

where is the inca trail

What is the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu?

The Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is the name that has been given to the road networks or roads that make up the road system of the Inca Empire, in this sense What is the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu? Is an Inca route through which one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World. Along the way, different archeological sites, beautiful landscapes and beautiful panoramic views are known and enjoyed. The Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu is very famous worldwide, and is known by many tourists because it is part of the road networks that linked the great Inca empire.

The Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is part of an extensive system of road networks of more than 23,000 kilometers that integrated the Tahuantinsuyo Empire (meaning “Four parts of the World”). This road covered Colombia, western Brazil, Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia, and reaches central Chile and northern Argentina.

These roads are found on the coast or in the mountains but in some cases they are located on the edge of the rainforest. It was built by the Empire of the Incas more than 500 years ago that ends in the famous citadel of Machu Picchu. Along the route you can find innumerable Inca archaeological remains, such as towers, water sources, platforms, observatories, temples, houses and the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu itself, these roads or paths are built with stones.

The Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu is considered one of the best treks or trekking in the world. The Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu network was a system of roads that linked great distances, to the most important points of the Coast, Sierra and the Jungle. This network of roads was called “Qhapaq Ñan”, which in Quechua means the Mighty Way or the Great Way. Like all the important cities of the empire, the city of Machu Picchu, connected to Cusco (Capital of the Empire), through the Inca road that we have traveled so far.

What is the Inca Trail

TRADITIONAL CUSCO SANTURANTIKUY ART FAIR

Fair Santurantikuy Cusco is a fairly important fair that takes place in the city of Cusco in the month of December, specifically on the 24th of that month in the Plaza de Armas of the City. It is a fair that brings together many important artisans in the area and in which exhibitions of their artisan products are held, this day the so-called “Hierberas” also come out at the fairs that come from different parts of Cusco to present different herbs brought each one of its zones and that serve to decorate the nativity scenes and nativity scenes.

The name given to this fair is not arbitrary since its translation into Spanish means “Sale of Saints” and it is in itself different statuettes or carvings of saints that are offered for sale in a Cusco fair. All or a large part of them has the application of being able to serve as decorations for important Christmas nativity scenes.

PERU : THE WORLD’S BEST CULINARY DESTINATION FOR THE EIGHTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

“Peru the best culinary destination in the world”. Peru was recognized this Thursday, November 28, as the best culinary destination in the world for the eighth consecutive year at the World Travel Awards, which was held in Muscat capital of Oman, in Asia. Our country was also awarded as the best cultural destination and the same was done with Machu Picchu as the biggest tourist attraction in the world. The World Travel Awards are the most prestigious awards within the framework of the tourism sector worldwide by recognizing since 1993 excellence in the universe of travel and hospitality.

The renowned Peruvian Gastronomy conquers palates and has become a travel motivator for thousands of people, so Peru was awarded the best culinary destination award in the World.
“Best Culinary Destination in the World”, “Best Cultural Destination in the World” and “Best Tourist Attraction in the World: Machu Picchu” were the three awards for which the international tourism industry awards our country. This is not the first time that Peru triumphs in these categories, being the recognition of our gastronomy the most awarded for eight consecutive years.

WHAT IS THE COST OF THE  INCA TRAIL  TO MACHU PICCHU?

This magnificent hike in the heights of the highlands and jungle of Cusco is also one of the most demanded in the world, specifically the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days and Short Inca Trail 2 Days as they have a limited number of tickets for each date and must be booked well in advance (6 months before is recommended). The price of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu varies depending on the number of days of travel or the route chosen.
Meet the beautiful flora and fauna along the way and of course the triumphant arrival at the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu. Performing the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu also gives you the wonderful opportunity to get to know the city of Cusco, a place full of history. The previous stay in Cusco will be very pleasant and useful in several ways.

Price of the Inca Trail

THE BEGINNING OF A WONDERFUL ADVENTURE

There are many roads that lead to Machu Picchu but none like the Inca Trail. The most popular among travelers and the most famous hike on the American continent. From Cusco, 43 kilometers of path through forests and dense fogs, ancient stone steps and majestic views. In the end is the reward. Where starts the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? The Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu begins at kilometer 82 of the railway that leads to Machu Picchu (2 hours and 30 minutes by bus from the city of Cusco).

The Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is considered the best trek in South America. It is a route of 43 kilometers through ancient Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu. Tourists have the opportunity to appreciate the scenic beauty with Inca archaeological sites including the Wonder of the World.

starts the Inca Trail

PACKING LIST FOR THE INCA TRAIL HIKE TO MACHU PICHU?

For nature and adventure lovers, especially those who really want to get to Machu Picchu through the Inca Trail, which by the way, will transport you to a new world where you will change the noise of the city for the beautiful singing of the Birds and the most beautiful landscapes you can imagine. However, trekking is not a simple thing, especially for those who are not used to exercise or physical effort normally. You need to know what to packing list for the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.

THE BEST SEASON TO HIKE THE INCA TRAIL HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU

The Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu, is one of the 5 best hiking trails in the world, many of the travelers wish to make this journey, but due to the limitations that exist because it is a route with high demand, it must be booked in advance. But first, choose the best season to enjoy your trip to the fullest. When to do the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, there are seasons in the city of Cusco different from other cities in Peru.

The months of May, June and July are the best to do the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu. During those days the mornings and afternoons are clear and you will be able to clearly observe the landscapes. The days are cooler, however, the nights are cold in the highlands.

HOW DIFFICULT IS THE INCA TRAIL HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU?

Do you want to travel to Machu Picchu but are looking for some adventure? The Wonder of the World also offers various options for adventurous spirits. The Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu and the ascent of Huayna Picchu are perhaps the most popular treks offered by the Inca citadel. How difficult is it to get to Machu Picchu through the Inca Trail? The hike is physically challenging, but requires no technical skill. The difficulty of the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu mostly comes from the repeated ascending and descending steps, and the height.

The climb to the first pass takes you to approximately 2,000 to more than 4,000 meters above sea level. in a relatively short length followed by a descent of approximately 1,500 meters above sea level.

KNOW THE INCREDIBLE MORAY RUINS  IN CUSCO

The Incas left us a great legacy of archaeological and architectural places that are preserved to this day. Thanks to that we have been able to learn much of the history and culture of this empire that inhabited Peru for around 100 years, between 1438 and 1533. One of the most fascinating places you can find in the Sacred Valley is Moray, an archaeological complex used by the Incas as an agricultural research center. The ruins of Moray is one of the mandatory destinations on your visit to Cusco.

SALT MINES OF MARAS IN THE SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS

Immersed in the impressive Andean beauty of the Sacred Valley, the Salt Mines of Maras offer a new look at surprising Inca ingenuity and skill. The salt encrusted ponds at Maras look like a blanket of snow covering the side of the Qoripujio mountain in the distance. It is a spectacular sight. Each of the more than 3,000 pools have various shades of white to brown. Maras Salt has been collected since pre-Inca times, and travelers are invited to see this centuries-old tradition at work.

OLLANTAYTAMBO RUINS IN THE SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS

Ollantaytambo ruins, a historic place, is one of the busiest tourist attractions in Cusco. This site functioned as a ceremonial center for the Incas, as well as being a control center for those who passed through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The great walls, the watchtowers and the perfect carving of the stone walls impress all the travelers that cross it. The Construction of Ollantaytambo had a role of protecting the Sacred Valley. Due to its strategic location, it was a center of operations during the Spanish invasion. In addition, the researchers indicate that it was a place where water was worshiped. Dare to visit it!

Ollantaytambo

NEW TOURIST DESTINATIONS IN CUSCO THAT YOU DIDN’T KNOW

If you thought that Cusco is only Machupicchu, Sacsayhuaman or Ollantaytambo, you are wrong, every time new wonders are discovered within the region and today we will show you some of the new tourist destinations in Cusco to motivate you to know them.

The perfect weather and especially the many activities you can do will allow you to plan a trip of at least four days to enjoy many adventures, whether as a couple, family or friends.

CUSCO IDEAL PLACE FOR ADVENTURE SPORTS

Cusco is a place that is characterized by the history and culture of the ancient Inca Empire. Tours of this type can be companions to meet and discover tourist attractions that are the mark of a glorious past. But Cusco is also an ideal region to practice adventure sports. Adventure sports in Cusco, ecotourism and sports tourism are booming. If what you are looking for is the possibility of practicing an adventure sport in Cusco, in this post we will give you all the details you need so that you know incredible archaeological sites, relationships with Inca communities and perform sports in magical natural environments, that only Cusco can offer.

YOU WILL BE SURPRISED TO SEE ALL THE CURIOSITIES OF THE CITY OF CUSCO

Curiosities of Cusco “Archaeological Capital of America”. This ancient Peruvian city got used to the large number of tourists who came to appreciate the fabulous Inca buildings such as the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Thus, the city was developed based on tourism as the first economic activity. Today, tourists are surprised by the curiosities of Cusco this peculiar city of the Andes. What differentiates Cusco from the rest of the country? Meet some of the most important curiosities of the ancient capital of Tahuantinsuyo.

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