Peru, the third-largest country in South America, is a popular destination for many tourists. This country is home to Machu Picchu, llamas and alpacas and a section of the Amazon Rainforest!

Peru has a diverse ecosystem and landscape all over the country, and all cities have their own unique atmosphere. The best way to experience Peru is by visiting the three areas- Costal, Andes and Amazon. The capital of Peru is Lima, and it is located along the Pacific Ocean. This city is full of colonial-era riches, archaeological sites, and beaches. Lima is also a perfect place for those who seek adventure as it has some of the best surfing spots and surfing schools in the world! After a long day of exploring Lima’s museums, cathedrals, and art galleries, take a stroll along the cliffs of Miraflores to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery.

Cusco was once the capital of the ancient Incan Empire and now is a popular tourist destination as there is a lot of things to see and do in this vibrant city! Cusco is filled with colourful textiles, lively fiestas and carnivals and this city is home to the famous Machu Picchu in the Andes Mountains. Just outside of Cusco lies the iconic Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. The mountain got its colours from the exposure and erosion of sedimentary minerals inside the mountain from centuries of tectonic shifts and volcanic activity. The views from Rainbow Mountain will leave you breathless!

The City of Iquitos is the largest city in the world that cannot be reached by road. Iquitos is a gateway into the jungle lodges and tribal villages of the northern Amazon rainforest. This city is perfect for those who wish to discover wildlife and scenery and for those who seek adventure!

• The official language of Peru is Spanish.
• The official currency used is the Sol (S/).
• Major airports include Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM), Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), and Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP).
• Dry seasons (May to September) in Lima average with daily highs of 19°C/66°F and lows of 16°C/61°F. Wet seasons (December to March) average with daily highs of 26°C/79°F and lows of 20°C/68°F.
• In Cusco, dry seasons (May to September) average at daily highs of 17°C/63°F and lows of -3°C/27°F. In wet seasons (December to March) there are average daily highs of 17°C/63°F and lows of 4°C/39°F.
• Peru drives on the right side of the road.
• The drinking age is 18 years old.
• Avoid drinking tap water in Peru, instead, buy bottled water.
• Tipping is common in Peru- usually about 10% of the final bill.
• Try Coca tea in Peru but do not bring Coca tea bags or leaves back with you after your trip as it is illegal!
• In tourist spots, you may see women and children dressed in traditional clothing. Make sure to ask before taking a photograph as you usually must pay for taking a picture of them.
• Power plugs are of type A, B and C. Voltage is 220 V and frequency is 60 Hz.

The Nasca Lines

The Nasca Lines located in southern Peru are enormous drawings in the desert sand. There are about 300 different geoglyphs imprinted in the soil, including animals and plants. Most of these lines were made from the Nasca people around 2,000 years ago, but its purpose remains a mystery. Since the Nasca culture was prehistoric, they left no written record as to what the use of these lines is.

The lines were discovered in the 1920s by archaeologist Toribio Mejia Xesspe when he came across them on foot. However, since the lines were impossible to identify on ground level, they only became known to the public once air traffic in the area increased in the 1930s.

Many tours allow you to fly over the Nasca Lines to experience the mystery for yourself. The best flights are those before noon as it starts to get windy then, and the trip may not be as enjoyable!

Address: Nazca, Peru

Coordinates: -14.7390, -75.1300