Beside of Machu Picchu, there are also some places worth to check it out..
1. Explore the Amazon Rainforest
Did you know that Peru has the second largest amount of Amazon Rainforest after Brazil? The Peruvian Amazon covers 60% of the country, creating a unique and diverse ecosystem when combined with the mighty Andean Mountain range and Pacific Ocean.
The two main entry points into the Amazon Basin from Peru are Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado. It is recommended to fly to both regions because of rough road infrastructure.
Did you know that Peru has the second largest amount of Amazon Rainforest after Brazil? The Peruvian Amazon covers 60% of the country, creating a unique and diverse ecosystem when combined with the mighty Andean Mountain range and Pacific Ocean.
The two main entry points into the Amazon Basin from Peru are Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado. It is recommended to fly to both regions because of rough road infrastructure.
2. Hike the Colca Canyon
Even if hiking is not your thing, witnessing the beauty of the Colca Canyon should not be missed. Along with its spectacular scenery, the Colca Canyon’s claim to fame is that it’s twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the United States, though the walls are not as vertical or dramatic.
The region is also well known as the home of the rare Andean Condor, an enormous bird with the largest wing span of any land bird, at 3.2 meters.
Even if hiking is not your thing, witnessing the beauty of the Colca Canyon should not be missed. Along with its spectacular scenery, the Colca Canyon’s claim to fame is that it’s twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the United States, though the walls are not as vertical or dramatic.
The region is also well known as the home of the rare Andean Condor, an enormous bird with the largest wing span of any land bird, at 3.2 meters.
3. Tour the Floating Islands of Lake Titicaca
Aside from having the title as being the highest commercially navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca is famous for its floating reed islands. The islands are home to the Uros tribe, one that pre-dates the Incan civilization.
Though quite a popular tourist attraction in Peru, touring the floating islands offers an interesting perspective into the lives of Peru’s aboriginal people. It’s a weird feeling the first time you step on an island made entirely of reeds!
The best way to travel to Lake Titicaca is to take the bus from Cusco to Puno (assuming you visit after exploring Machu Picchu) or from Arequipa. You don’t need to make reservations ahead of time because it’s easy to book day trips to the floating islands from the city of Puno.
Aside from having the title as being the highest commercially navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca is famous for its floating reed islands. The islands are home to the Uros tribe, one that pre-dates the Incan civilization.
Though quite a popular tourist attraction in Peru, touring the floating islands offers an interesting perspective into the lives of Peru’s aboriginal people. It’s a weird feeling the first time you step on an island made entirely of reeds!
The best way to travel to Lake Titicaca is to take the bus from Cusco to Puno (assuming you visit after exploring Machu Picchu) or from Arequipa. You don’t need to make reservations ahead of time because it’s easy to book day trips to the floating islands from the city of Puno.
4. Discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Though Machu Picchu is the clear fan favourite when it comes to Incan archaeology, the Sacred Valley is a must for history buffs and cultural connoisseurs. Geographically, the Sacred Valley stretches along the Urubamba River from Pisac to Ollantaytambo. Aside from the ruins and archaeological sites, the region is well known for its remarkable landscapes and lush agriculture.
Guided tours of the Sacred Valley can be organized from Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incan Empire, and can include river rafting, horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking. There are also several historical Incan sites and unique attractions within Cusco, giving you plenty to do while you acclimatize to the high altitude of the region.
Though Machu Picchu is the clear fan favourite when it comes to Incan archaeology, the Sacred Valley is a must for history buffs and cultural connoisseurs. Geographically, the Sacred Valley stretches along the Urubamba River from Pisac to Ollantaytambo. Aside from the ruins and archaeological sites, the region is well known for its remarkable landscapes and lush agriculture.
Guided tours of the Sacred Valley can be organized from Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incan Empire, and can include river rafting, horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking. There are also several historical Incan sites and unique attractions within Cusco, giving you plenty to do while you acclimatize to the high altitude of the region.