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For your next vacation, consider visiting Peru. While it's famous for the Inca ruins of Macchu Picchu, there are about a hundred other reasons to visit this South American wonder. Here's a list of the basics to get you started on your trip.
How to Get There
While you could drive to Peru (it is feasible, though a little daunting), if you're looking to go on a vacation of reasonable length, say one to four weeks, you'll want to fly to maximize your time and to keep your costs down.
All major carriers fly to Peru, although you'll probably want to fly in through Lima, the capital, for convenience's sake. Another option is to fly into Bolivia's capital La Paz, which is located close to the border and is served by a reliable and well-priced bus service. Look for seat sales or discounts, as they will drop the price several hundred dollars.
Where to Go
With Peru, you have the choice between several different cities and landscapes. Ensure that you spend some time in Lima; it's by the sea, so you'll find beaches, history, culture and great seafood in local restaurants.
Next, you'll want to head up into the Andean Highlands and explore the Inca ruins at Macchu Picchu. If you're interested in the Amazon Jungle (and you should be), head to Iquitos. Although you'll have to take a regional flight to reach this jungle city, it's certainly worth it for a taste of another side of Peru.
High season is from early June to August, and that's when you'll have the best weather, so unless you're willing to brave the rainy season, stick to high season.
What to Eat
Ceviche de pescado: Peru's national dish is a must-try. While you might balk at the idea of eating raw fish, the lemon/lime juice infusion stops the growth of any sort of funny organisms. It's served for lunch and as an appetizer, and you'll find Ceviche on every Peruvian menu. Be careful as this dish is spicy!
Try the cuy: Depending on how adventurous you are or how much you hate guinea pigs, this dish may or may not entice your taste buds. Roasted guinea pigs are another item you'll find on almost every menu in Peru. I've been told it tastes like rabbit. It can be fried, roasted or baked.
Quinoa: Have something with quinoa at breakfast, lunch or dinner. This ancient grain is used in a million different ways. It's really good for you, it's a complete protein and it's delightfully crunchy in muffins.
What Not to Miss
Lares Trail: While the Lares trek does not lead to Macchu Picchu, Lares is the more interesting hike, if you're interested in landscape and getting away from the throngs of tourists. This 33 kilometre hike isn't difficult, but the altitude can have an effect on hikers, so be prepared. You'll see more of the Andean landscape and get an up close experience with the people.
A Jungle Lodge: Spending time in the jungle will amaze and surprise you. See bugs bigger than your hand and wake up to the sounds of the lush jungle. Take hikes in the surrounding area with a guide; they'll point out details that are easy to miss in the dense greenery.
Go Shopping: In Peru, you'll find a varied assortment of handicrafts to buy, from alpaca ponchos and pottery, to gold and silver jewellery. Goods will come in all price brackets, so it's smart to shop around before you buy. Besides, it's more fun to look around and indulge in the markets and shops instead of purchasing your gifts and souvenirs at the first place you come across.
What you Should Skip
The Inca Trail: Some would shoot me for suggesting that you avoid the Inca trail, but taking the bus or train is just as good, especially if you're considering hiking Lares. The Inca city of Macchu Picchu is certainly not something one should miss when visiting Peru, but the hike can be overcrowded with tourists. If you do decide to hike the trail, you have to book in advance with a tour company. Make sure your chosen company hires local guides to help cook and carry packs, and be sure that they are paying them fairly and not exploiting the local population.
Something for everyone
Peru is a great place for backpackers, families looking to indulge in some culture and people who just want to explore the world. You can spend a few days by the ocean, head into the mountains and then explore the Peruvian jungle in one trip. What are you waiting for?
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