Destinations And Sightseeing

A. Cusco

The ancient capital of Peru is famous for its archeological riches, which includes the colonial buildings such as the Plaza de Armas and the Temple of the sun. A number of ancient ruins have also been excavated in the region including that of the Sacsayhuaman, the red fortress of Puka Pukara, the Inca Baths at Tambomachay and the temple of Qenqo.

The Plaza de Armas also called Plaza Mayor was known as Huacaypata during the rule of the Incas and was witness to many important events in the history of Cusco. The temple of sun god was revered by the Incas, functioned as the main temple at that time and is the best example of Inca architecture. The main building of the temple is made from rectangular blocks of carved granite. It is believed that the gaps between the blocks were filled with smelted gold. Some archeologists believe that there was a garden inside the temple in which trees, birds, and animals, and other figures were represented in gold. Some also believe that the temple itself was surrounded by a golden cornice and its walls were covered in gold plates.

The ruins of Sacsayhuaman are an excellent example of Incan military architecture. It was originally a fortress that was built using large blocks of granite and was intended to protect the city from potential attacks by the Antis, an invading force from the east. Tambomachay is believed to have served as a spring shrine, but its exact purpose is still not known. Some archeologists believe that it was a resting place of the Incas, whereas others are of the opinion that it was a site of a water cult. Along with the remains of numerous fountains, the site also has the remains of the Bath of the Inca, a large ceremonial stone bath.

The Puka Pukara lies opposite to the Tambomachay and consists of numerous stone chambers, which are believed to have functioned as a hunting lodge or guard post at that time. The temple of Qengo is believed to have functioned as an amphitheater and its name means ‘zigzag', which is derived from the numerous channels that criss-cross the stonework of the temple. These channels were most likely used for channeling sacrificial blood for the purpose of appeasing the gods and divination.

B. Sacred Valley of the Incas

Located at an hour's drive from Cusco, the sacred valley of the Incas is home to scenic mountains and valleys, imposing agricultural terraces, and numerous archeological sites. Situated against the backdrop of the impressive Vilcanota mountain range, the area has been the main source of agricultural products for the city of Cusco since the beginning of the Inca civilization. The regions topography and its pleasant climate make it the most preferred place for outdoor sports enthusiasts to practice rafting, mountain biking, trekking, and others.

C. Machu Picchu

The peaks of Machu Picchu are perhaps the most popular tourist attraction in Peru. The ancient site was discovered by the American naturalist and explorer, Hiram Bingham, in 1911. Considered as the stronghold of the Inca civilization, the site is situated near the deep canyon of the Urubamba River. It is considered one of the most amazing examples of landscape architecture in the world. It is believed that the site functioned as a place of worship, used for stargazing, and was a part of the private estate of the Inca Pachacutec family.

The ruins of Machu Picchu are accessible via the main entrance and are home to several buildings with complex designs and intricate stone masonry. The stone trail leads to a building called the Watchman's hut that provides a mesmerizing view of the ruins and the towering Huayna Picchu located nearby. You will be overwhelmed by the number of splendid buildings located in the area and will literally be surrounded by them after entering the main Plaza. The Sacred Rock is located at the far end of the ruins, near the Huayna Picchu. Be it crafted mountain terraces or artistic temples and buildings; Machu Picchu is certainly a must-visit destination.

D. The Inca Trail

The Inca Trail connects Machu Picchu to the ancient capital city of Cusco and other main cities via manmade foot roads. Located in the National Park, the centuries old Inca Trail is the most popular trekking route in South America. The trail starts at Kilometer 88 on the Cusco-Quillabamb train route located in the Urubamba Valley and stretches 20.5 miles to the top of Machu Picchu. All along the trail, you will come across many wonderful ruins and natural wonders.

The first ruin along the trail is known as the Llaqtapa, which has the remains of some isolated buildings and services. After passing the scenic Cloud Forest, you reach a plain known as Llulluchampa, where most visitors camp for the night. The 2nd day of the trek is considered more arduous as you will reach an altitude of 4000 feet and then drop again. Although strenuous, the journey through this area is worth the pain as it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. On day 2, you will come across the ruins of Runkurcay, which looks like a tombstone. After spending some time here, you descent to Sayamarca to rest for the night. On the 3rd day of the trek, you will walk on paved Inca trails and pass through Inca tunnels carved into the mountainside. After this you will reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, which are not only inspiring but also offer breathtaking views of the countryside. The ruins of Winay Wayna are next on the list and can be reached via an Inca stairway. After camping here during the night, you will head towards Intipunku (the Sun Gate) and reach Machu Picchu before dawn sets in.

E. Arequipa

This peaceful colonial city is located at an altitude of 2,325 meters and is often referred to as the ‘white city'. The city is surrounded by volcanoes of which the most well known and tallest is the El Misti, which is located at an altitude of 5,822 meters above sea level. The beautiful monastery of Santa Catalina is also located in the city, which is home to some 400 nuns that live here in total isolation. It was only in 1970 that the monastery was opened for the public. The La Catolica University houses a well preserved Inca mummy of a small Inca girl who is believed to have been sacrificed to a volcano in order to please the gods.

You can visit the city during the dry season, from April to November. The city can be reached by plane from Lima, Juliaca and Cusco and by bus from Puno and Nazca. Accommodation in the city consists of both luxury as well as budget hotels.

F. Puno

The region played a central role in the development of Peru during pre-Inca and Inca period. As per popular folktales, the first Inca, Manco Capac and his wife Mama Ocllo were ordered by their father, the sun, to establish the Tahuantinsuyo Empire. The region's main attraction is Lake Titicaca, which is located at an altitude of 12,379 feet above sea level. With a length of 120 miles, an average width of 40 miles, and depths exceeding 81 feet at some places, it is the highest navigable lake in the world. Depending on the time of the day, the color of the lake varies from deep blue to pale green. A wide variety of wildlife is found in and around the lake, which includes flamingos, ducks, trout and local fish such as the suche and carachi. The ‘Totora' reed grows naturally all over the lake and is used as food for both people and animals. It is also used as construction material for building homes and rafts.

The best time to visit Puno is during the dry season between April and November. Flights to Puno are available from Arequipa and Lima. Bus services are also available from Arequipa (seven hours), Colca Canyon (five hours), and Cusco (seven hours). Train services are also available between Puno and Cusco that operate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. Many hotels are operational in the area such as Libertador, Posada del Inca, Eco-Inn and Qelqatani.

G. Lima

Lima, the capital of Peru, was founded in 1535 by the Spanish conqueror, Pizarro. Lima replaced the ancient capital of Cusco and went on to become one of the richest settlements in the New World. Today, Lima is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 8.5 million inhabitants, where you will find many interesting sights such as the museum of Anthropology, the Gold museum, the catacombs of the San Francisco Church and the Plaza de Armas.