DESTINATIONS INTRODUCTION Every place on the planet has something of interest, but Peru is undoubtedly a privileged country for its great natural, historical and human legacy. Here, nature lovers will feel gratified by the diversity of environments and scenery. They will be amazed by the sharp contrast between forests and deserts on the coast; deep ravines and towering snow-capped mountains in the Andean highlands; densely forested slopes and huge plains of thick vegetation in the Amazon jungle; and they will be surprised at the wide variety of animal and plant life, unique in the world, that is characteristic to each of these regions. Those who admire the remains of the past will find magnificent testimonies to an ancient civilization that dates back six thousand years, with an unmistakable cultural identity that created wonders such as the Royal Tombs of Sipan, the Nazca Lines, Chan Chan and Machu Picchu. And they will be able to see the best examples -in painting, sculpture and architecture- of the fusion of Hispanic and American cultures. Adventure travelers will be able to ride tall waves and go looking for underwater life along the long stretches of natural beaches; climb high mountain ranges, explore deep caves, run the longest and biggest rivers on the continent, trek along ancient paths that wind through different eco-systems; and observe endangered species up close in natural reserves of indescribable beauty. Because it is a racial melting pot, Peru is home to a wide variety of expressions of its peoples through their ancient, creative and colorful folk art. Visitors can join in age-old celebrations, each music and dance retelling its own history. They are welcome to share in the customs and tasks of villagers and witness how farmers have been able to master the difficult terrain of the coast, highlands and jungle. There also will be no lack of oppoortunities for the most demanding of palates to savor the variety and quality of Peruvian cuisine, which offers the visitor the best seasoning in the Americas. This manual presents the most important tourist offers now available, and together with the activities manual will allow you to easily design and promote programs that will give travelers the opportunity to explore, discover and sense this mysterious and dynamic country called Peru. POPULATION AND POLITICAL SYSTEM Peru has a population of approximately 27 million people. The coast is home to 52% of the total population, while 36% live in the highlands and 12% in the jungle. The population is predominantly mestizo or TERRITORY racially mixed, and most speak Spanish, although there Peru occupies the west central area of South America, are two important minorities: the Quechua and Aymara, on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. It is the third largest and the native population of Amazonia, which is country on the continent, covering 1'285,215.6 km2 subdivided into 14 linguistic families and 42 ethnic (496,221.51m2), a surface greater than the combined groups. territories of Spain, France and Germany. Peru is politically divided into 25 regions (Amazonas, Peru is divided into three geographic regions: Ancash, Apurimac, Arequipa, Ayacucho, Cajamarca, - Coast (12% of the territory): a warm climate along the Callao, Cusco, Huancavelica, Huanuco, Ica, Junin, coastline that includes superb natural beaches, Lambayeque, La Libertad, Lima-Provinces, Loreto, mysterious deserts, fertile river valleys and exotic dry Madre de Dios, Moquegua, Pasco, Piura, Puno, San woodlands. Martin, Tacna, Tumbes and Ucayali) as well as the - Highlands (28% of the territory): a region of varied capital, Metropolitan Lima, which has no regional status. terrain and temperate climate, dominated by the snow- Peru is a democracy whose public powers are the capped peaks of the Andes rising above 6,000 masl, the Executive, headed by the President of the Republic; the highest of which is Mount Huascaran, at 6,768 masl Legislature, which is a one-chamber congress; and the (22,206 ft). It includes deep canyons such as the Colca Judiciary. General elections, to elect a President of the and Cotahuasi, the two deepest on the planet; and high Republic and the representatives to Congress, are held plains like the plateau of Collao, on the shores of the every five years. Regional and municipal elections are world's highest navigable lake, Titicaca, at 3,810 masl held every four years, the most recent held in 2002. (12,500 ft) Currently, the Constitutional President of the Republic is - Jungle or Amazonia (60% of the territory): a region of Dr. Alejandro Toledo, whose mandate concludes on July tropical climate, lush vegetation and abundant fauna 28, 2006. that is part of one of the planet's largest natural reser- ves. It is here that the confluence of the Marañon and BRIEF HISTORY Ucayali rivers forms the Amazon River, the largest in the Peru is one of the great original centers of ancient world. culture, along with Mexico, Mesopotamia, India and China. Paleolithic man left his first traces here and CLIMATE began to develop villages of hunter-gatherers around Temperatures and atmospheric cycles vary from one 6000 B.C. (as seen in Lauricocha, Huanuco). Farming region to another. settlements began to form around 2500 B.C., planting - Coast: There are two clearly-defined seasons on the manioc, broad beans, quinoa, potatoes, cotton and coast: summer (December-March), when temperatures maize. can reach 27°C (80°F); and winter (April-November), Prior to the arrival of the Conquistadors from Europe, which is very damp and chilly, with temperatures falling Peruvian history is divided into five stages or horizons: to 12°C (53°F). Although it rarely rains on the coast, - Early Horizon (1200 B.C. - 200 B.C.): Small states were mist and drizzle are common during the winter. The far formed, with the elite holding economic and religious north coast enjoys sunshine all year round, with power. Chavin de Huantar (Ancash) belongs to this stage, temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F) in the summer. with its temple of underground passages that include - Highlands: The climate is dry and temperate, with two monochromatic pottery and megalithic art. Other key clearly-defined seasons: the dry season (April-October), remains are those of Caral (Lima) and Sechin (Ancash). with sunny days, very cold nights and scant rainfall -the - Intermediate Early Horizon (200 B.C. - A.D. 600): This ideal time to visit the Andes- and the rainy season is the era of the great centers of regional development. (December-March). There is a sharp contrast in The important cultures are those of Tiahuanaco (Puno), temperature between sun and shade, and temperatures Mochica and Lambayeque (Lambayeque and La Liber- can often vary widely during the same day, from 20°C tad), Nasca and Paracas (Ica). Tiahuanaco is known for (68°F) to 2°C (35°F). its Chullpas or funeral towers at Sillustani (Puno); the - Jungle: The climate is tropical and humid. There are Mochica are famous for the Royal Tombs of the Lord of two well-defined seasons: the summer or dry season Sipan; the Lambayeque built the pyramids of Tucume; (April to October) with sunny days and temperatures the Nazcas made remarkable pottery and drew the above 30ºC (86ºF), and the rainy season (November to mysterious Lines in the desert; and the Paracas wove March), with frequent heavy showers and high river wonderful textiles. levels. - Middle Horizon (A.D. 600 - A.D. 900): The epoch when Information on weather conditions in Peru is available on the Wari culture spread throughout the Andean region. Internet: Evidence lies in the citadels of Wari (Ayacucho), http://www.senamhi.gob.pe Pikillacta (Cuzco) and Marca Huamachuco (La Libertad). http://www.weather.com - Late Intermediate Horizon (A.D.900 - A.D. 1400): This HOW TO GET THERE period is marked by a group of regional states with well - By air: Peru is linked by direct flights and connections defined cultural features. The important cultures are to the main cities of Europe, Asia and the Americas. The those of Chimu and Chincha on the coast; Cajamarca main port of entry is Jorge Chavez International and Huanta in the highlands; and Chachapoyas in the Airport (Callao, Lima). The airports of Arequipa, north jungle. The structures representative of this Cuzco, Chiclayo, Iquitos, Pisco, Pucallpa, Tacna and period are the Chimu citadel of Chan Chan (La Liber- Trujillo are also equipped to receive international tad), the funeral center of the Windows of Otuzco in flights. Cajamarca, and the Chachapoyan citadel of Kuelap (in - Overland: One can enter Peru via the Pan-American Amazonas). Highway through the city of Tacna in the south, or - Late Horizon (A.D.1400 - A.D. 1532): This is the period through the city of Tumbes in the north. Access is also predominated by the Incas, native to Cuzco, who built possible from the city of Loja (Ecuador) which is an imperial form of government throughout the entire connected by road to the city of Piura. There are two Andean world. Their main legacy is their architecture in entry routes from Bolivia: Copacabana - Yunguyo - Puno; Cuzco. This period concludes in 1532 with the Spanish and La Paz - Desaguadero - Puno. Conquest. - By river: The only point of entry by river is along the The Colonial period developed between 1532 and 1821, Amazon, with private rivercraft services coming from from which there is a magnificent artistic heritage. the cities of Leticia (Colombia) and Tabatinga (Brazil) to Examples include paintings such as those of the so-called the port of Iquitos (Peru). Cuzco School; architecture as in the Santo Domingo - By lake: Lake Titicaca links Peru to neighbouring convent in Cuzco (built on the ancient Inca temple of Bolivia, with which Peru enjoys bustling trade and Koricancha) and the convent of Santa Catalina in tourism links. Arequipa. Independence was declared on July 28, 1821 - By sea: Cruise liners call at Callao, Peru's main port. and later consolidated with the victory of the Battle of Some cruises also call at the ports of Salaverry (Trujillo) Ayacucho on December 9, 1824. and Chimbote (Ancash), in northern Peru; and at San Martin (Ica) and Matarani (Arequipa) in the south. LANGUAGE AND CURRENCY The official language is Spanish, although the State also Peru operates a travel information and assistance recognizes all other native languages and dialects. The service called iperu, which provides objective Roman Catholic Church enjoys a favored status but the information on tourist services, as well as assistance for State guarantees full religious freedom. Basic English is travelers who have not received the service they paid taught at most schools. English is generally spoken by for. The service can be contacted 24 hours a day, people who work in the travel industry, such as tour nationwide: guides and personnel at travel agencies and hotels. The Peruvian currency is the Nuevo Sol (S/.); circulation Tel: (01) 574-8000 is in coins of 5, 10, 20 and 50 céntimos, and 1, 2 and 5 e-mail: [email protected] Nuevos Soles; and banknotes for 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 Nuevos Soles. Most shops, restaurants and gasoline stations accept US dollars and euros at the daily exchange rate. Most hotels and commercial establishments in cities throughout the country accept major credit cards: Visa, Master Card, Diners and American Express. Travelers checks are not widely used. Check with the establish- ment whether they are accepted. To find out the latest exchange rate, check out: http://www.editoraperu.com http://www.expedia.msn.com TIME AND SERVICES Peruvian time is 5 hours behind or less than Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and coincides with Eastern Standard Time (EST) in the United States. Peru is on the same time as New York; Santiago de Chile and Caracas are an hour ahead; Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires are 2 hours ahead; and Tokyo is 15 hours ahead. Electric current is 220 volts. The telephone system operates with direct dialing for local and international calls; telephone directories provide the code numbers for each city. There are public Internet booths almost everywhere in the country LIMA, CITY OF VICEROYS gastronomy and conventions Lima, the traditional City of Kings, was founded in 1535 Flores de Oliva, Saint Rose of Lima, lived. by the Conquistador Francisco Pizarro. Today it is the Season / Climate capital of the country and the gateway to the rest of Lima has two marked seasons: summer between Peru. In 1991, UNESCO declared it a World Cultural October and April, with strong sunshine and no rain; Heritage site for its colonial architecture. and winter between May and September, with high Travelers can visit everything from pre-Hispanic temples humidity and drizzles. such as Pachacamac -which was the center of oracles Festivals and religious pilgrimages over different periods-- to old Lord of Miracles Month (October): Lima's most important colonial mansions and churches rich in history, such as festivity. It is celebrated around the image of a crucified the Cathedral, the convent of San Francisco, the church Christ that is a replica of a mural painted in the 18th and convent of the Nazarenes, and Torre Tagle palace, century in the slaves' quarter of Pachacamilla. The old which today is headquarters of the Foreign Affairs Acho bullring is the scene of an important bullfight Ministry. season in October, when the best of the world's Lima is a modern metropolis, ideal for conventions and bullfighters come to vie for the Gold Scapular of the international or world meetings, with all the appropriate Lord of Miracles. infrastructure and fully-equipped five-star hotels. Gastronomy The city has a number of districts that are very different There are excellent restaurants in Lima for national and from each other and worth a visit: Miraflores, a quarter international cuisine and local varieties of many Italian, with modern infrastructure that includes leading hotels, French and Chinese dishes. restaurants of every specialty, shopping areas and First Courses: nightspots. Its beaches offer good surfing conditions and Cebiche: bite-size pieces of raw fish marinated in lemon the shoreline cliffs are the ideal height for hang-gliding juice, onion and hot chili pepper, garnished with corn and paragliding take-offs. San Isidro is known for its on the cob and sweet potato. parks and residential areas, and is a modern business Escabeche: a cold dish of fried fish or chicken marinated and financial district. Barranco, a bohemian in vinegar and then steamed with generous servings of neighbourhood and the home of artists, teems with a onion. nightlife of pubs and music. Santiago de Surco, a Causa limeña rellena: a cold dish of thickly mashed district known for its shopping malls and century-old yellow potatoes seasoned with hot chili pepper and wine cellars. lemon, and then stuffed with tunafish, chicken or vegetables. Altitude, 154 masl (505 ft). Soups: How to Get There Parihuela: a concentrated broth of fish and shellfish. - By air: Lima is linked to the world's major cities and is Main dishes: the hub for connections to cities around Peru. Lomo Saltado: sliced beef sautéed with onion and - By land: Lima is the main hub for the road network tomato, mixed in with fried potatoes, and served with linking cities all over the country, via the Pan-American rice. Highway and the Central Highway. Ají de Gallina: diced chicken in a thick sauce of milk, Lodging cheese, ají chili pepper and nuts, also served with white The city offers a wide selection of lodgings ranging from rice. basic services to the luxurious. Desserts: Tourist Services Mazamorra Morada: sweet purple maize jelly stewed A wide variety of restaurants and all kinds of transport with fresh and dried fruits. and services. Suspiro a la Limeña: rich milk and vanilla cream topped Minimum Length of Stay with meringue. Three days is ideal to tour the city and environs. Arts & Crafts Historical Center Attractions Excellent quality folk art and crafts can be purchased in Plaza Mayor: the main square, designed when the city Lima. The main handicraft markets are located at Av. was founded, has a beautiful bronze fountain made in Petit Thouars in Miraflores; at Av. La Marina in Pueblo 1650. Libre; and the center of Lima at Jr. Conde de Superunda Cathedral of Lima: The cornerstone was placed by and Jr. Carabaya. Francisco Pizarro in 1535. Church and Convent of San Francisco: complex famous for its catacombs. Sanctuary of Saint Rose of Lima: located where Isabel THE MYSTERIOUS NAZCA LINES and the Paracas National Reserve To the south of the city of Ica, the Pan-American be in the mornings, also depending on the weather. Highway cuts through the desert of sand dunes to Km Some of the beaches within the Paracas Reserve are not 420, just 25 km (15 miles) before the town of Nazca. appropriate for children because of the banks of large There, on the plains of San Jose, lies a collection of seaweed and the muddy ocean floor. mysterious geoglyphs and straight lines that were etched Nearby Attractions into the desert around A.D.600. There are a number of pre-Hispanic attractions, such as These Nazca Lines consist of furrows some 20 the Cantayoc aqueduct (5 km east of Nazca); the cere- centimeters deep (8 inches) drawn in the shape of monial center of Cahuachi (17 km north of Nazca); and animals such as a hummingbird, a monkey or a fish, that the Inca ruins of Tambo Colorado in the Pisco valley. are almost 500 meters (1,640 ft) long. Ica is also an attractive travel destination for its The Lines were studied by Max Uhle in 1901, by Toribio festivities and wine-growing tradition, as it is the Mejia Xesspe in 1926, and it was Paul Kosok who made birthplace of pisco, Peru's grape brandy. There is also them known to the world in 1939. The German the attractive Huacachina, a small and long-traditional mathematician and student of Kosok, Maria Reiche, resort in an oasis close to the city of Ica, with dedicated her life between 1940 and 1998 to protect comfortable hotels. these geoglyphs, which were declared a World Heritage Seasons / Climate Site by UNESCO in 1994. The weather is hot and dry all year round, with no rain. The Ica region also holds the Paracas National Reserve Festivals (22 km south of the city of Pisco, at Km 261 on the South International Wine Harvest Festival (first half of March): Pan-American Highway). This rich coastal eco-system In Ica, celebrates the grape harvest and includes wine covers an area of 335,000 hectares (827,450 acres), that and pisco tastings, a food festival, parades, the election includes desert, beaches, islands, cliffsides and ocean. of a festival queen and music concerts. This natural habitat is a haven for flamingoes, pelikans, Religious celebration of the Lord of Luren (first Thursday penguins, dolphins, sea lions, and an infinite variety of and third Monday of October): In Ica, where large fish and crustaceans. An hour away by boat to the crowds attend a procession of this patron saint of the northwest lie the captivating Ballestas Islands, a city, complemented by fairs, games and other events. protected area of cormorants and sea lions. Gastronomy Sopa seca: noodles with shredded chicken, seasoned Altitude, Chincha, Pisco and Paracas, sea level; Ica, 406 with annatto, parsley and basil. Served as an masl (1,332 ft), Nazca 588 masl (1,929 ft), Palpa, 347 accompaniment to carapulcra. masl (1,138 ft). Carapulcra: stew made of diced, freeze-dried potato How to Get There and pork, with annatto, dried hot chili pepper and By air: Flights to Ica from Lima take 1 hour. ground peanuts. Overland: South Pan-American Highway from Lima to Guiso de pallares verdes: a spicy stew of green lima Paracas takes 3 hours; to Ica, 4 hours; to Nazca, 6 hours. beans with milk, egg and cheese. Lodging Tejas: a sweet made of pecans, sweet black bean paste, There are comfortable hotels and hostels in the towns of chirimoya paste and other seasonal fruits. Chincha, Pisco, Ica, Paracas and Nazca. Activities Archaeology, nature-watching, water sports such as windsurfing and waterski, boat rides, trekking, cycling excursions, sandboarding, horseback-riding. Tourist Services Guided tours; flights over the lines at Nazca and Palpa from Ica and Nazca (45-minute flights); complete trekking and camping services; dune-buggy rides through the desert; boat rides to the Ballestas Islands from Paracas. Minimum Length of Stay Three days to fly over the lines and visit part of the reserve and the Ballestas Islands as well as enjoy desert tours and adventure sports. Recommendations Fly over the Nazca Lines in the morning, depending on the weather. Boat rides to the Ballestas Islands should HUASCARAN NATIONAL PARK Chavin and the cordillera Huayhuash The Huascaran National Park, in the Cordillera Blanca for trekking and longer trips to the mountains. Full mountain range, covers an area of 340,000 hectares (840 equipment available for climbs and excursions. Mountain hectares) that includes 296 lakes and 663 glaciers -as and conventional tour guides available for the main well as the highest peaks in Peru, including Huascaran at trekking routes, muleteers, packhorses and mountain 6,768 masl (22,206 ft), Huandoy and Alpamayo. It cooks. includes protected areas for Andean plant species such Minimum Length of Stay as the Puya Raimondi and the queñual tree, and wildlife Five days (including the round trip); trekking routes such as the Andean condor and the vicuña. from 2-14 days. The Chavin archaeological complex can The Huascaran National Park was listed by UNESCO in be visited in a single day from Huaraz. 1977 as a nucleus of the Biosphere Reserve and in 1985 Recommendations was declared a World Natural Heritage Site. Popular A day for getting used to the altitude is essential before sites include the Pastoruri glacier (70 km/42 miles south any demanding physical activity. Eat easily-digestible of Huaraz); Lake Llanganuco (at the foot of Huascaran) food and drink coca tea. Activities in the Cordillera and the thermal springs of Monterrey (5km north of Blanca are subject to National Park regulations. Huaraz). Season / Climate In the Callejon de Conchucos, to the southeast of The best time of year is from May to September, when Huaraz, is the Archaeological Complex of Chavin de skies are clear. The snowline starts at 4,600 masl / Huantar (3,810 masl / 12,500 ft), which consists of 15,088 ft. Nights are cold at high altitude and cool in temples, tunnels, stone buildings and plazas. This site Huaraz and other towns. was the most important ceremonial center of the Festivals ancient Chavin culture and in one of its tunnels is the Huaraz Carnival (February). Lanzon, an impressive and fierce-looking mythical figure Mountain Sports Week (May/June), throughout the 4.53 meters tall (over 14 ft) and carved in the shape of a Callejon de Huaylas, with international competitions. giant arrowhead. Feast of San Pedro de Corongo (June 29): Religious and The Cordillera Huayhuash lies at the extreme south of popular celebration famous for its Las Pallas dance. the Cordillera Blanca, on the border with the Huanuco Anniversary of Huaraz (July 25). region. Lake Conococha is the source of the Santa River, Gastronomy and the range includes Mt.Yerupaja (6,634 masl/21,766 Picante de Cuy: stewed guinea pig in a peanut and hot ft), the country's second highest peak and the most chili pepper sauce. difficult to climb. The area's most impressive and Cuchikanca: tender suckling pig marinated in vinegar demanding trekking route (8 days)begins at the town of and roasted. Chiquian (3,200 masl / 10,499 ft). Pecan Caldo: sheepshead soup with tripe. Pachamanca: various kinds of meat, potatoes and tender Altitude corn cooked underground over hot stones. Huaraz: 3,100 masl (10,170 ft); Caraz: 2,250 masl (7,380 Arts & Crafts ft); trekking routes run from 3,800-4,000 masl (12,467 - The area is known for making traditional costumes and 13,123 ft). colorfully-embroidered petticoats. Local craftsmen also How to Get There make candles that are widely used in various religious Overland: there are daily buses from Lima to Huaraz processions in the region. Other items include (400 km - 248 miles) that take 8 hours; from Trujillo (570 lambswool blankets from Chavin, Tarica pottery, wrought km - 354 miles) the journey takes 10 hours. iron objects, embossed leather, baskets, and blankets Lodging and ponchos woven in llama wool. Three-star hotels in Huaraz; three-star hostels in Carhuaz and Caraz; basic lodging in Chiquian and other towns and shelters within the park. Activities Archaeological tourism in Chavin (Huari), Recuay and Willkawain (Callejon de Huaylas), Yayno (Conchucos) and Sechin (Casma). Conventional camping and trekking, llama treks, mountain climbing, eco-tourism, wildlife watching, river-rafting down the Santa River, snow skiing, and cycling trips. Arts and crafts at Chacas (Conchucos), famous for wood carvings. Tourist Services Tourist transport and auxiliary and specialized personnel CUZCO and the Sacred Valley of the Incas The city of Cuzco is located in the southeastern Andes. Recommendations. Visitors need to get used to the high Its name in Quechua means "center of the world", from altitude. Avoid any over-exertion for the first few hours; when it was the capital of the empire or Tahuantinsuyo eat easily-digestible food and drink coca tea to ward off (four regions). Legend has it that the city was founded high-altitude sickness (soroche). by Manco Capac and Mama Occllo, who rose out of Lake Attractions. The Cathedral, the Compañia Church and Titicaca. Santo Domingo Convent, San Blas artists' quarter, The Incan architectural legacy of Cuzco dates back to Sacsayhuaman Archaeological Park which includes the 15th century and is attributed to the Inca Kenko, Puca Pucará and Tambomachay. Pachacutec (1438-1471), who built the city's most The Sacred Valley includes the remarkable remarkable constructions, including fine stone carving, archaeological areas of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. The the perfect locking between stone blocks, and the archaeological complex of Choquequirao is 185 km (114 trapezoidal design of entryways. These buildings include miles) from Cuzco, with a main square, storage Sacsayhuaman, in the upper part of the city; the buildings, terracing systems and ceremonial platforms. Korikancha (temple of the sun) on top of which the Season / Climate.There are two clearly-defined seasons: Spanish built the Santo Domingo convent; and on the The dry season, from May to August, when the nights street called Hatun Rumiyoc (two blocks from the main and early mornings are extremely cold (frosty); and the square), the wall that includes the famous 12-sided rainy season, which is from December to March. stone. Festivals Following the arrival of the Spaniards, Cuzco became a Easter Week (March / April, movable feast): Holy mestizo and colonial city featuring splendid colonial Monday, procession and blessing of the Lord of constructions, built on top of Inca foundations, and Earthquakes, patron of Cuzco. which developed its own mestizo style of architecture Corpus Christi (May / June, movable feast): procession and painting that can be seen in the Cathedral and the of images of saints and virgins, patrons of the different Compañia de Jesus church. parish churches. The city is known as the Archaeological Capital of the Qoyllur Riti (May / June, movable feast): its name Americas. UNESCO declared Cuzco a World Heritage Site means Bright Star of Snow and is a blend of the ancient in 1983. worship of the Apus or mountain gods with Catholic traditions. More than 50,000 people participate, dressed Altitude. Cuzco: 3,360 masl (11,020 ft); Sacred Valley: in the clothing typical of each of the different regions in 2,900 masl (9,512 ft) the south, to the Sinacara Sanctuary. The pilgrims carry How to Get There stones of different sizes up the mountainside to place By air: daily flights from Lima (55 minutes), Arequipa (35 them at the apacheta or rock pile, and return downhill minutes), Puerto Maldonado (30 minutes) and La Paz, carrying blocks of ice on their backs. Bolivia (1 hour, flights every other day). Inti Raymi (June 24): the staging of the feast of the Sun By rail: from Puno, 384 km (238 miles) in 10 hours. God, the supreme Inca deity, with folk dances and Overland: by bus, from Lima via Nazca and Abancay, costumes on a grand scale. 1,131 km (701 miles) in 19 hours; from the city of Puno, Nuestra Señora del Carmen (July 16): folk dances in the 389 km (241 miles) in 6 hours; and from Arequipa, 528 town of Paucartambo. km (327 miles) in 10 hours via Juliaca. Gastronomy Lodging. Cuzco offers all categories of lodging, including Lawa: fresh maize and bean soup. five-star hotels with central heating and very good Queso Kapchi: a cold dish of fresh cheese, lima beans, restaurants. potatoes and onions, seasoned with milk and hot chili Activities. Visits to archaeological sites, museums and pepper. churches, arts and crafts markets, experiential tourism, Chicharron con Mote: pork fritters and fresh maize. ecotourism, trekking, cycling excursions, river-rafting, Chiriuchu: roast chicken or guinea pig, served with an mountain climbing, balloon rides, bungee jumping and omelette of toasted corn flour, cheese, salt-dried meat, horse-riding. Other features are the gastronomy, variety rocoto chili pepper and algae. of popular fiestas and the traditional markets of Arts & Crafts. The most important crafts include textiles Chincheros and Pisac. woven on hand looms, pottery, silver jewelry, replicas Tourist Services. Several categories of restaurants, of Cuzco School paintings, furs, carved and gilded wood, rental of equipment for trekking, camping and rafting. religious imagery (the Magi, Virgins, Christ Childs, and Transport (car, bus), guided tours. Archangels), and masks. The artists' quarter of San Blas Minimum Length of Stay. Three to four days for the is the center of most workshops, including of leading main attractions in the city of Cuzco, Sacred Valley and craftsmen such as the Edilberto Mérida, Antonio Olave, Machu Picchu. Jesus La Torre and the Mendivil family. THE INCA TRAIL the highway of the great empire The Incas built a vast network of roads to communicate Activities with the four regions of their vast empire. The network Archaeology, trekking (moderately difficult), wildlife was called Qapaq Ñan (the sovereign's highway) or Inca watching. Road, and was made up of stone paths suitable for two Tourist Services or three people with trains of llamas. Rivers were There are camping areas along the route clearly crossed by hanging bridges and the steep slopes were designated by the Machu Picchu Management Unit mastered with steps and ramps. There are remains of (UGM). There is an inn with basic facilties for 39 people the Qhapaq Ñan throughout Peru that are still used to and a restaurant for about 100 people at Wiñaywayna. this day by local villagers and farmers. One of the most Travel agencies that are licensed to operate the route impressive and best preserved roads is the trail that are responsible for providing each visitor with the links Cuzco and Machu Picchu. essentials, including food, tents, sleeping bags, etc. Today, hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu allows the Minimum Length of Stay visitor to step back in time and walk through a variety of Depending on the route chosen, visitors should plan for eco-systems and dazzling scenery. The length of the 39 two to three additional days for connections to the city kilometers (24 miles) includes unforgettable views, of Cuzco and their next destinations. archaeological remains; 400 different species of orchids Recommendations and begonias, exotic trees like the pisonay, the queñual Acclimatization is necessary. Refrain from any over- and innumerable species of fauna in their natural exertion during the first few hours. Eat easily-digestible habitat, such as the cock-of-the-rocks, llamas and food and drink coca tea to ward off high-altitude vicuñas, the white-tailed deer, the vizcacha and, if sickness. Trekkers will need to be in good physical visitors are lucky, the endangered and vegetarian condition to be able to tackle the longer Inca Trails. spectacled bear. The Inca Trail is one of the world's Follow the regulations for conservation of the trail. leading trekking and camping routes. Nearby Attractions Along the trail one can find a great variety of Altitude archaeological sites such as Machu Q'ente, Huayna Minimum: 2,600 masl - 8,528 ft; Maximum: 4,200 masl - Q'ente, Pulpituyoc, Kusichaca, Patallacta, Torontoy, and 13,776 ft. the snow-capped peaks of Mount Veronica and Salcantay. How to Get There Season / Climate There are two options: The Inca Trail runs through a variety of eco-systems and - Four days / 3 nights. The trek starts at Kilometer 88 altitudes, which makes for a wide-ranging climate. on the railway line, known as Qorihuayrachina. There are two seasons: the dry season, from April- Archaeological sites along the way include Patallacta, October, and the rainy season, with heavy cloud cover, Willkarakay, Patawasi, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, from November to March. Conchamarca, Phuyupatamarka -the highest site at Regulations / Observations 3,650 masl (11,972 ft)-- Intipata, Wiñayhuayna -an Inca According to the regulations established by the Machu site surrounded by impressive terraces and an Picchu Management Unit (UGM), there are two ways to exuberance of wild orchids-- and Machu Picchu. An walk the Inca Trail: One is via a duly registered travel interesting feature on this route is the crossing of the agency authorized by the UGM to operate the circuit, Urubamba River via a hanging bridge and the climb - and the other is to hire the services of a guide who is optional-up to Warmiwaskuña pass ('where the woman also registered and authorized. Hikers are permitted to died') at 4,200 masl (13,776 ft) which offers spectacular hire their own porters for the trek scenery. - Two days/ 1 night. This route is known as the Sacred Trail and the trek begins at Km 104 (Chachabamba), which can be reached by train. Archaeological sites along the way include Chachabamba, Wiñayhuayna and Machu Picchu. The train ride from the city of Cuzco as far as Km 104 takes around 3 hours. There are alternative, shorter trails that are considered part of the circuit of the Inca Roads network and which join up with the last stage of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. These are the Royal Trail, a 6-hour trek, and the Road of Purification which takes 4 or 5 hours. Trekkers must make arrangements through accredited travel agencies to take these routes. MACHU PICCHU lost city of the Incas Enveloped in a magical silence, 120 km (74 miles) and plant spotting (excellent area for orchid lovers), northwest of Cuzco on the slopes above the Urubabamba thermal spirngs, and shopping for arts and crafts. River, lies one of the most beautiful archaeological sites Minimum Length of Stay on the planet. Some also consider it to be a mystical At least one day to visit Machu Picchu and five to seven place that exudes vital energy. Machu Picchu is days to visit other attractions between Machu Picchu remarkable for its solid construction, its well-balanced and the Inca Trail. use of space and the harmony of the design with its The Inca Trail requires three to four days to walk its 39 natural surroundings. Its name comes from the ancient kilometers, and a total four to five days to include Quechua word meaning old mountain. It is strategically transport and visit to Machu Picchu. located to elude enemies and is surrounded by deep Recommendations canyons and impressive mountains, which the Incas An overnight stay in the area is suggested. Wear a called Apus or guardian gods. The whole area is covered poncho or raincoat during the rainy season, and in the in thick vegetation. dry season bring a hat, insect repellent and sunscreen. The site was built entirely of stone, using every space in Visitors must heed the conservation regulations of the harmony with function. There are two main sections: Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary. the urban area, which includes temples, palaces, plazas, Nearby Attractions storage rooms, workshops, stairways, and fountains; and The thermal springs at Aguas Calientes, located 800 the agricultural area made up of various types of meters (half a mile) from the town of Machu Picchu. Also terraces for cultivation. interesting is the climb up to Huayna Picchu, or 'young The local people knew of the ruins long ago. In 1911, the mountain' (2,667 masl - 8,748 ft), which is the steep guide Melchor Arteaga led professor Hiram Bingham to mountain that stands behind the citadel in the classic Machu Picchu. Bingham returned in 1914 with the photographs of Machu Picchu. The ascent takes an hour support of Yale University and the National Geographic along a narrow, steep path and at the top stands a set of Society and since then, Machu Picchu has been known as terraces apparently built for ceremonial purposes, and the 'Lost City of the Incas', initially confused with Old the remains of a partially built temple. Visitors who wish Vilcabamba, where Manco Inca sought refuge from the to climb Huayna Picchu must register at the control post Spanish. located in the Sacred Stone section. Visitors are The citadel is believed to have been fundamentally for recommended to use walking shoes and carry water with religious purposes. Bingham found a cemetery them. exclusively of women, which led him to believe it was Season / Climate an immense monastery of acllas (young women) and a Machu Picchu can be visited all year round, although the retreat and resting place for the Cuzco sovereign. Its best months are from April to October. construction possibly dates to the times of Tupac Inca The seasons are clearly defined: summer runs from Yupanqui, the final era of the Inca empire. November to March, with rains and high humidity; the The Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary (32,592 hectares winter or dry season runs from April to October. - 80,536 acres) is a natural reserve, which UNESCO declared a World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site in 1983. Altitude Machu Picchu 2,400 masl (7,872 ft) How to Get There By land: The only access to the citadel is by rail from Cuzco, 110 km (68.3 miles) to the Machu Picchu Pueblo station. Travel time is between 3 to 4 hours, depending on the type of train service. The bus ride from the Machu Picchu town (formerly Aguas Calientes) up to the archaeological site takes 20 minutes. Lodging The town of Machu Picchu offers budget and three-star hotels. At the entrance to the sanctuary, there are rest rooms, telephone booths, a fast food restaurant and a hotel. Activities Archaeology, trekking, photography, mysticism, animal MANU NATIONAL PARK the last natural haven The Manu National Park, covering an area of 1,716,295 Lodging in the Tourism and Recreation Zone of the MNP hectares (4.3 million acres), is Peru's largest protected includes accommodation in lodges and camps. Basic natural area and one of the largest on the planet, with a accommodations available en route to the park at biological megadiversity that is unparalleled. It includes Salvacion, Pilcopata and Boca Manu. the entire Manu River basin, across territory that Activities straddles the regions of Cuzco and Madre de Dios. Tours with gear included and guided by naturalists and It was created on May 29, 1973 to protect the rich specialized guides. Eco-tourism, wildlife watching, biodiversity of the area from irrational use and trekking through the jungle. It is also possible to go development. In 1977, UNESCO established the Manu river-rafting in designated areas and visit native Biosphere Reserve and in 1987 declared it a World communities. Natural Heritage. The area includes three forms of Minimum Length of Stay protection: a nucleus area that is intangible, to protect Because of the travel difficulties and the size of the the wildlife; a reserved area, where a programmed use park, a minimum of five days is recommended. is permitted for resources, research and tourism; and a Recommendations cultural area, where villages and farming are allowed. Visit only authorized areas. Manu is home to more than 800 species of birds, Do not interfere with research activities. including the harpy eagle, jabiru, and cock-of-the-rocks; Do not establish contact with native communities. over 200 species of mammals such as the black Do not collect species of animal and plant life. maquisapa monkey, giant river otter, black cayman, Heed the regulations given by the Park Authority and the jaguar, ocelot, spectacled bear, and huemal deer. There park guards. are many varieties of insects and reptiles yet to be Season / Climate classified. Among more than 2,000 species and unique The ideal time to visit is between May and October; days varieties of plants there are giant orchids and trees that are very hot, nights are cool, and it rains frequently. It is tower up to 45 meters high and 3 meters in diameter the Amazon jungle and conditions can be difficult. (147 ft tall and 10 ft in diameter). Arts & Crafts A number of native communities also live in this area, Handicrafts of the native communities are made from with their own traditions, language and culture: the plants, fibers, seeds or roots from the jungle. Peruvian Matsiguenga, Amahuaca, Yaminahua, Piro, Amarakaeri, law prohibits and penalizes the extraction, transport, Huachipaire and Nahua. trade and export of any kind of flora or fauna, live or dead. The prohibition includes any object made from Altitude parts of animals and plants. The park stretches from the eastern slopes of the Andes (4,000 masl / 13,124 ft) down to the Amazon plains (at 250 masl / 820 ft). The reserved area and the cultural area of the Biosphere Reserve are on the Amazon plains. The high Andean area includes one visiting zone, the Tres Cruces lookout point, at Acjanaco. How to Get There By air: daily flights from Lima to Cuzco (55 minutes); flights every other day from La Paz (Bolivia) to Cuzco (1 hour). Small aircraft can be chartered for flights from Cuzco to Boca Manu (where the Manu River flows into the Madre de Dios) to then continue the rest of the journey by boat (4 hours). Overland: from Lima to Cuzco (1,105 km / 687 miles) via Nazca, in about 19 hours. From there, tourist transport can be hired to Atalaya (8 hours) or Shintuya (11 hours), and then by boat to Boca Manu (8 hours) and on to the Tourism and Recreation Zone of the Park (another 8 hours). Tourist Services A visit to the tourism and recreation zone of the Manu National Park (MNP) in the Manu basin can be made only through authorized travel agencies that process entry permits and pay the visitor's fee.