Peru is a country in western South America, known for its ancient Inca civilization and for Machu Picchu, the mountain citadel that draws visitors from around the world. It is a destination that rewards time, since the country's landscape changes sharply from one region to the next.
What the country offers
- Inca heritage: The Inca civilization left a lasting mark on Peru, and its sites are spread across the country.
- Machu Picchu: The most famous of these sites, set high in the Andes and reached by a variety of routes.
- Varied geography: Peru runs from the Amazon rainforest in the east to the Andean peaks in the highlands.
Planning a visit
Because the terrain shifts so much, a trip often covers more than one region. Travellers who visit the highlands will notice the altitude, while those heading east will find the heat and humidity of the rainforest. Choosing a route that matches your interests, whether archaeology, mountain scenery or wildlife, helps shape the rest of the trip.
The Republic of Peru is a large and diverse country, and a visit can be as focused or as wide-ranging as you choose. Many travellers combine a stay in the Andes with time in the Amazon, giving a sense of the country's contrasts.
