Aside from the backpackers and surfing mecca Máncora, travellers often ignore the north coast of Peru, however there are many beautiful beaches to discover in the region.
Both to the north and south of Máncora, almost all the beaches on Peru’s northern coast are relatively free of foreign tourists and in the low season prices are particularly affordable.
The north coast of Peru stretches from Trujillo to the border with Ecuador and aside from the beautiful beaches there are many important archaeological sites.
Trujillo is Peru’s third largest city and some locals consider the nearby beach at Huanchaco to be place of eternal spring. It is famous for its ceviche (a traditional Peruvian fish dish) but it is also Read more
The Human Body exhibit has been seen around the world, and right now it is here in Lima. Although this has nothing to do with the culture of Peru, it is an amazing exhibit that should most definitely be seen. And who knows, seeing it in Lima might be the only chance you get!
The exhibit displays real bodies, complete and partial, that have been preserved using polymerization. This liquid silicone preserves the human tissue, leaving the body completely plasticized at a molecular level. You can see the complexity of the bones, nerves, organs, and blood vessels.
This is a cool way to really see how the body works. The exhibit is open to people of all ages, although it Read more
If you are currently making your list of things to do when you are Lima make sure you add the Church of San Francisco (La Iglesia de San Francisco) to the list. The Church and monastery are interesting enough, but the real attraction here are the underground catacombs.
For about 2 dollars (US) you can enter the extensive tunnel system of graves containing piles and piles of human bones. The bones are sorted by body type, thanks to a group of archaeologists who inventoried them. In one area the bones are arranged into a work of art, copying the French catacombs. (Oh the things you learn on a guided tour!)
While we’re taking the time to explore Lima a little bit more, let’s take a look at Parque de las Leyendas (Park of the Legends). This little zoo is a popular place for Limenos (as the locals are called) as well as visitors. It is home to some of Peru’s native wildlife, such as llamas, condors, and other birds native to the Amazon region.
The zoo is divided into three sections with each one highlighting animals from a specific region of Peru. They are:
The Coast
The Andes Mountains
The Peruvian Rainforests
There is a fourth section The International Section which has your traditional zoo animals.
For those who are passionate about making a change in Peru, Project Peru is a great place to get started. This registered charity has established a shelter in Peru where is provides food, clothing and protection to those in need. It is also currently working to construct a building in Zapallal, near Lima which will be used as a community center of sorts, and aid the community greatly.
Project Peru also sends financial support and material assistance to its affiliates in Peru to be distributed among the needed. The charity is based out of the UK, but calls to action any who feel the need to help the situation of the many poor who live in Peru. Read more
Fallen in love with the idea of Peru, but not sure how to get your family to agree? G.A.P. Adventures offers a “Peru Family Adventure” tour that might help convince your family just how great Peru is.
The 10 day tour includes a guided tour of Machu Picchu and an Amazon jungle excursion. The tour price includes accommodations at a hotel for 6 nights and at a jungle lodge for 3. The local flights throughout the tour are included as are the train rides and motorized canoe trips! Jungle meals are included as is a daily continental breakfast.
As it is a family tour, one in the group must be between the ages of 6 and Read more
Lima’s Swissotel is one of the most luxurious in the city and is within walking distance of good shopping, great restaurants, and happening nightclubs. The 5 star establishment has 18 floors and 244 rooms and suites. The Swiss-based management team is excellent, and the service is unbeatable.
All rooms have AC, cable TV, phones with direct dial international service, a security system and a safe. There is also 24 hour valet and room service. The executive rooms come with a king bed or two twins, a desk, breakfast and cocktails, a private lounge and access to the business center and board room. Deluxe suites have their own kitchen, terrace, sauna, Jacuzzi and living room.
Peru’s most famous tourist destination is without a doubt of Machu Picchu and a trip to Peru is not complete with a visit to this ancient Inca city. There are tons of companies that offer multiple treks, the most famous following the Inca Trail, which in the Peru Gringo’s opinion, and I think many will agree with me, is not the best route to go. Why? It is overcrowded, tougher terrain, and doesn’t have that great of scenery, not to mention the fact that you have to book a trip on that trail at least 4 months in advance.
An alternative route that I recommend to any wanting to trek to Machu Picchu is the Lares Read more
Travel and business in Peru are taking off like never before! What used to be a country traversed by backpackers and surfers is now becoming a hot place to start up a business or enjoy a relaxing vacation. Not to say that trekking through the lost city of Machu Pichu isn’t an amazing experience, but if you are a little slower when it comes to exploration, you’ll be happy to know that a journey through Peru is well within your reach.
Some of the most amazing scenery in all of South America can be found in Peru. Whether you decide to spend your time high up in the majestic Peruvian Andes or along the coast where Read more
Facebook
Twitter
Comments