|  Peru
is the largest of the Andean nations located in South America.
The country is surrounded by Ecuador and Colombia to the north,
Brazil and Bolivia to the east, Chile to the south, and the Pacific
to the west. It is a beautiful country with many different types
of climates and terrain. In the northeastern part of the country
are the rainforests of the Amazon Basin. Along the Pacific, lie
vast deserts such as the Atacama Desert, which is one of the driest
places on Earth. Moving eastward, one finds the impressive Andes,
second highest mountain range in the world.
 When
people think of Peru, they think of Machu Picchu and the Incas.
As a result, the country is called by many, "The Land of the Incas".
While to one extent this title is correct, it fails to take into
account the importance of many other indigenous groups such as
the Moche, Wari, and the Chavin. Throughout the country are many
archeological sites worth visiting. Some of the most famous outside
of Machu Picchu are the Nazca Lines, the Sillustani ruins around
Lake Titicaca, and the Sechin ruins.
The
culture of Peru is a reflection of its history. The country has
witnessed great indigenous civilizations culminating with the
Inca, Spanish conquest, the struggle for independence, and today,
an emerging democracy. As you explore the wonderful attractions
of Peru, you cannot help but notice these influences on all aspects
of Peruvian society.
The
different areas of Peru are extremely distinctive. For those interested
in plant and animal diversity, you can visit the Peruvian Amazon
Basin, which covers over half of Peru. The area is extremely interesting,
but at the same time exceedingly inaccessible. For those of you
planning to visit this area, be aware of the health risks. For
more information, read guide books or contact Peruvian authorities.
 The
most distinctive feature of Peru is the Andes. Cusco, the ancient
capital of the Incas, is one of the most popular destinations
(only a little more than an hour flight from Lima). Here in this
city you have a mix of Spanish colonial architecture, and Inca
ruins. The combination of both types of architecture within one
city is impressive to say the least. The main cathedral hosts
one of the finest Spanish colonial art collections in the hemisphere.
The art work is distinctive not only because of it quality, but
also due to its style. For instance, when one looks at the wings
of angels on a painting, instead of being white, the wings are
multi-colored. The wings were painted like this because the artists
had only seen the plumage of the exotic birds living in the jungles
of Peru.
Outside
of Cusco, lies the Sacred Valley of the Incas. As you wind down
the road into the valley, the view is impressive. The colors are
brilliant, and here and there you can see snow capped peaks rising
18-20,000 ft. Throughout the valley are fine examples of Inca
architecture such as the ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Ollantaytambo
was the location of the only defeat Pizarro experienced at the
hands of the Incas. Throughout the valley are many small towns
and villages where you have the opportunity to experience the
local culture, and buy quality local products.
 The
one place any visitor of Peru should visit is the mysterious and
majestic ruins of Machu Picchu. The site is only accessible by
a 4 hour train ride from Cusco. Many agencies run day trips, but
to truly experience the site, stay overnight. There is nothing
like seeing the sun break over the mountains and the fog lifting
to reveal Machu Picchu in in all its glory. The ruins are well
preserved, and in combination with its location deep within the
Andes, absolutely breathtaking. This site is a must see!
The
people of Peru are friendly. The government and the people really
go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome and safe. The
service is outstanding at many locations. Just getting off the
airplane in Lima, you will find people who make sure you can find
a hotel in your price range, and that you get there with no hassles.
For students of Spanish, Peruvians are patient and understanding
hosts.
If you are interested
in nature, history, or culture, Peru is the perfect destination
for you to learn Spanish! |
