#peruscapes

Discover Peru’s cities, in one of the world’s most varied countries. It is a multicultural nation, overflowing with heritage, traditions and natural reserves. It is a home to 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 84 of the planet’s 117 life zones. Its enormous territory, covering more than 1.2 million square kilometres, is composed of three regions: Coast, Highland and Jungle. Peru has some of the most beautiful cities in the world, here are just a few to whet your appetite.

Lima

Lima is the capital and the largest city of Peru, It is located right on the Pacific coast - so there is a remarkable diversity of activities to compliment the interests of all forms of tourists. The city of Lima is located between the valleys of Chillòn, Rímac, and the Lúrin Rivers, and has a population of more than 9 million people. Lima has plenty on offer to satisfy the keen traveller’s appetite. Whether it’s  world-class food, nightlife, historical architecture or fun wave rides at the beach, this Peruvian gem really does provide something for everyone.

Cusco

Another popular city among tourists is the city of Cusco. It is a city in south-eastern Peru near the Urubamba Valley of the Andes mountain range. Cusco is the seventh most populous city in Peru and in 1983 was declared a World Heritage Site. Since then, it has become a major tourist destination, hosting nearly 2 million visitors a year. When visiting Cusco you can enjoy Peruvian gastronomy, visit temples and murals, contemplate stunning local churches, experience horseback riding tours and eat popular market food. We recommend you don’t miss the most famous local drink, Pisco Sour, which is served in many of the local bars.

Arequipa

Arequipa is the stunning volcano-ringed colonial city in southwestern Peru. It is the second most populated city of Peru and the key industrial and commercial centre for the whole country. Some Peruvians regard Arequipa as the most “important” city in all Peru, in large part due to its historical significance. Nicknamed “La Ciudad Blanca” for its unique white buildings made from a local volcanic material, Arequipa will lure you in immediately with its astonishing museums, churches, cathedrals, and monasteries around every corner. A must-see is the Catedral Basilica in the main square and the Museo Santuarios Andinos to learn about the story of Juanita the “Inca Ice Maiden”.

Iquitos

If you’ve never visited Peru you’re probably curious to know why so many people decide to visit this South American destination each year. 

From its natural wonders to its unique and sometimes surprising culture, here are five reasons why you should travel to this amazing country. 

1.UNIQUE CULTURE AND PEOPLE

Peruvians are friendly people, always thrilled to welcome visitors to their country, and their culture is a magnificent combination of Hispanic and indigenous traditions.

2.STUNNING SCENERY

Peru is not only a very beautiful, but also a very diverse country. There are many stunning locations that should be on every traveller’s bucket list. 

3. AMAZING CUISINE

For any food enthusiast, Peru is a popular culinary destination. Its cuisine is widely recognised as a hive of trendy, inventive and distinct dishes that are gaining the attention of food critics from around the world. 

4. PLENTY OF HIDDEN CITY GEMS

Hidden city escapes are guaranteed to inspire wonder, as well as give you a deep appreciation for the culture and history of the country. 

5. IT IS EASY TO TRAVEL TO

Any mode of transport you choose is a good way to get to Peru. Why wait? Pack your bags and start your adventure.

Peruscapes Blog provides educational, inspiring and entertaining content that will display Peru as a unique and breathtaking destination. 

Peru is a country whose popularity among tourists is growing every year. It is home to exotic jungles, interesting infrastructure, heritage cities, archaeological sites, coastal deserts and the majestic Andes Mountains. 

Cultural diversity combined with incredible geographic wonders and many unique settings and communities is an indicator of how differences can merge and work together. 

Culture

Peruvian culture is a wonderful combination of Hispanic and indigenous backgrounds. The Quechua and the Aymara are the two main national cultures of Peru, both of whom speak their own national languages. These Inca inheritors have successfully preserved and developed their heritage and cultures. 

The culture of modern Peru in born of the interactions between the indigenous populations, Hispanic settlers, and later immigrant groups. Peruvians are accustomed to dealing with dramatically different temperatures, altitudes, and climates. In total, 28 of 32 possible world climates are represented in Peru.

Religion

Ancient Peru had various polytheistic and pantheistic religions. The most popular gods were Viracocha (lord, creator, and father of men) and Pachamama (earth mother). The sun, moon, and such phenomena as lightning and mountains were also worshipped. 

Art

Peru, before the arrival of Spanish settlers and conquistadors was one of the major artistic centres in the New World. The pre-Spanish artefacts are examples of artistic expression, from jewellery to stone and metal carvings. Mestizo and indigenous painting styles developed during the colonial period and have into a complex artistic culture.

Examples of the exquisite crafts, drawings, and architecture still survive. One of the more notable examples is Machu Picchu. Colonial Peru was witness to a blend of Spanish baroque with creole and mestizo art.

Dress

Peruvian typical dress is magnificently colourful, In some regions, the women wear layers of dazzling skirts called polleras. Some wear black skirts with wide embroidered belt, or cotton petticoats underneath with elaborate designs.  

Peruvian ponchos are prerequisite in the highlands, where the cold can be harsh, the ponchos of Cajamarca and Puno are long and dramatic, where as, those of Cusco are shorter. Woollen or straw hats are also common.

Music

Peruvian music was impacted by a blend of the pre-Columbian influences of wind instruments and drums with Spanish stringed instruments. 

Alpacas and Llamas have been used by people for transport and wool production for thousands of years. Both species are predominantly discovered in Peru and are a part of the camel family. Alpacas and Llamas are two of four Lamoid species - the other two species, Vicuña and Guanaco, are their wild cousins. 

The most-distinguishing physical differences between alpacas and llamas are their size, their hair, and the shape of their faces.

Watch the video below !

If, after the video, you are still wondering why you should do this adventurous trek with these funny animals, here are 5 reasons:

They are very chilled animals, and trekking with them is a perfect way to de-stress.

They are a perfect hiking companion - to carry your bags.

They are cute and fun to be around.

If trained well, they spit just at each other!

And finally, if for some unfortunate reason your trek goes awry and you get lost, the lovely Alpaca or Llama will keep you warm at night, and if all else fails you can always cook it and eat it like the locals do :)

Which Alpaca-Llama selfie do you like the most? 

Mother Nature has been extremely kind to Peru, gifting this beautiful country with deserts, volcanoes and valleys, the Amazon Jungle which comprises more than half of the Peruvian landscapes and the amazing Amazon River.

Peru is a country of unique beauty, a combination of natural attractions difficult to find in other countries. It is hard to choose the most beautiful among so many unspoiled landscapes. So, we picked the top five of the most popular, just for you!

Machu Picchu

The lost city of the Incas and the one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is undoubtedly the most iconic place to visit in Peru. Not only famous for its legacy, but also for amazing location between the jungle-covered hills. There is perhaps no tourist who would visit Peru and miss this beautiful wonder.

To help you get the most of your Machu Picchu experience, read these useful tips:

Book your entrance tickets well in advance (4 to 6 months at least)

Don’t forget to get your souvenir passport stamp at the entrance

Dress for different weather and be ready for all four seasons

Stay hydrated

There are no bathrooms beyond the main entrance

Rainbow Mountain

Vinicuca or Rainbow Mountain, is one of the greatest tourist attractions in the land of the Incas. It is located in the Andes and can be reached from Cusco via two different routes. The altitude of the mountain is around 5200 meters, so time to acclimatize to the high altitude may be necessary during the trek up to the summit.

The mountain is famous for its. natural, multi-coloured beauty. This rainbow-like appearance is created by the sediment of minerals throughout the area, giving the mountain seven different colours.

Huascarán National Park

Mount Huascarán is the summit of the world’s highest tropical mountain range, the Cordillera Blanca, in the central Peruvian Andes. The park covers a large area of rugged mountain terrain, featuring a broad array of the natural vegetation and harbours important populations of threatened wildlife species.

Visitors to the park can enjoy activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, mountain biking and skiing. In addition to that, there are 33 archaeological sites within the park, which include: cave painting, ancient settlements, tombs and fortresses.

Alpamayo Mountain

Situated in the heart of Huascarán National Park, Alpamayo Mountain is often described as the world’s most beautiful peak. Trekking routes lead both from the south (commercial) and northern (more adventurous) side of the mountain.

The difficulty of the Alpamayo climbing depends on the weather and the snow conditions. In general, the level of this climb is difficult and requires a very good physical condition and prior mountaineering experience. 

Titicaca Lake

This fabulous lake is located at the northern end of the altiplano basin, high in the Andes, and creates a natural border between Peru and Bolivia. At an altitude of 3820 meters above sea level, Titicaca is often described as the highest navigable lake in the world. 

With its 36 islands and blue water, there is plenty to see and do around the shores and islands. So come prepared for an unforgettable experience. 

Our treat for this weekend is not one, but two drinks recipes. You can thank us in the comments below!

TIPSY SATURDAY - PISCO SOUR

Key ingredients:

50ml Pisco brandy

50ml lime juice

1 egg white

large handful of ice

few drops of Angostura bitters

lime slices-for garnish

Steps to make it:

1. Pour the Pisco, lime juice and sugar syrup into a cocktail shaker or blender 2. Add the egg white and a large handful of ice 3. Shake or blend for 20 secs and strain into 2 glasses 4. Add a few drops of Angostura bitters to the top of each cocktail 5. Garnish with a lime slice (optional) 6. Enjoy the fiesta!!!

SUNDAY HANGOVER REMEDY - CHICA MORADA

Key ingredients:

4 dried Peruvian purple corn on the cob

4l of water

1 cinnamon stick

6 whole cloves

1/2 cup white sugar

3 green apples/pears

4 limes

Steps to make it:

How can you talk about a country's culture and not talk about its food?  For any food enthusiast, Peru is a popular culinary destination and its importance in the gastronomic scene has grown hugely in the last decades. The range of climates in Peru results in an incredible variety of produce. Potatoes, corn, and grains especially quinoa are Peruvian staples. 

So, what dishes should you try during your time in Peru? 

Fish

Ceviche, Peru’s national dish, consists of only five ingredients: corvina (fish) marinated in lime juice, onions, salt, and hot chilis. Ceviche is often served with dry-roasted corn kernels on the side. 

Meat

If you want the full Peruvian food experience, you will have to try Cuy, or guinea pig. Cuy is one of the Andean region's most popular sources of meat. The traditional method of cooking it is to fill the whole guinea pig with herbs and roast it over an open flame. It is usually served with roasted potatoes, and high-end restaurants will deep-fry or braise the meat. 

Another traditional Peruvian meat is alpaca, the smaller cousin of the llama. Alpaca is very lean, tender and almost sweet. Alpaca meat is not only rich in proteins, but also low in fat. It is considered one of the healthiest meats in the world. 

Drinks

A Peruvian drink you must try is Chicha Morada, a non-alcoholic beverage made from purple corn. Chicha Morada is sweet and served cold. 

When it comes to alcohol, Peru is famous for the Pisco Sour. Pisco is a type of brandy made from grapes, and the drink is made of Peruvian pisco as the base liquor, mixed with lime juice, simple syrup, bitters, ice, and a raw egg to give the drink a foamy top.

Tomorrow is the weekend, and we have a SURPRISE POST for you. So stay tuned!!!