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Introduction

Like no other South American country, Peru has magnetized all types of travellers since the ancient times. Whether the treasure-hunters of the past or adventure-seekers of today, they were astonished by the cultural heritage found on their paths. The remains of the mighty Inca empire are just the most visible part of the dozens of pre-Inca civilizations which have flourished in Peru during the history. The discoveries of more unknown historic sites continue to appear each year.

Besides the cultural exploration, a rich natural diversity opens to wildlife adventurers of all sorts. The variety of outdoor activities in Peru is incomparable within South America. From the highlands, valleys, canyons and peaks of the Andes to the higher jungle surrounded Machu Picchu sanctuary. From the lower Amazon jungle’s natural reserves to the spacious deserts along the blue Pacific coast. This rich offer, together with the multi-cultural activities and experience of the live native shamanic and medicine traditions could let seriously think of the next free time possible for visiting the Peru.

A bit of geography

Peru is located on the Western side of South America. It’s bordering neighbors are Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil is on the east, Bolivia to the south-east and Chile is a southern neighbor. On a territory of 1,3 millions m2 lives about 28 million people of different ethnic origins, however the indigenous and Spanish successors and many kind of mixed bloods make the major part of Peruvian population. The largest immigrant groups are Chinese and Japanese people. In Peru 3 different regions are distinguished notably varying by the climate, culture and history – the Pacific coast (la costa), the Andes mountains (la sierra) and the jungle of Amazon river basin (la selva).

Meeting the Peru

Arriving to this country for the first time the guests of Peru are captured by the warmth of the people living here. This warmth and the southern rhythm of life is felt in every step shall it be the streets of Lima or the natives of the Andean countryside. Nevertheless the high rate of the poverty which prevails within the total population of 27 millions, the eyes of the country’s inhabitants speak with the smile inside expressing the simple acceptance of the life as it is. Peruvians joyfully greet the foreigners and willingly offer their help whenever asked.

The country is famous by its natural and cultural wealth. There are many natural reserves throughout the Andes and the Amazon jungle. A fabulous Andean sierra spans the Western half of its territory from the very north border with the Ecuador down to the Chile. The mountainous regions together with the deserts of the long Pacific coast are inhabited by approximately 95% of Peru’s population. The rest 5% of its inhabitants reside on the Eastern half of the country covered by spacious rainforests of Amazon river basin.

Throughout the many centuries of Peruvian history it witnessed the birth, raise and fall of many different civilizations like Chavin, Nazca, Chimu, Mochica, Wari, Paracas and the Inca. The Inca Empire was at its peak advancement point at the time of its conquest by the Spanish warriors in the 16th century. Even today a vast amount of the cultural and archaeological heritage is accessible for the researchers and travelers of today - antique cities and sanctuaries, ancient temples and ruins.

More information coming soon!