MUST-SEE CITYSCAPES WHEN VISITING PERU
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
Iquitos is a Peruvian city, also known as the “capital of the Peruvian Amazon”. It is the ninth most populous city of Peru and although it is some distance from the most common sights in the South of Peru, Iquitos manages to stay well connected to the rest of the country. Its harbour is the biggest in the region, and this allows it to be an important spot for the exportation of timber, fish, oil, and agricultural crops. Surrounded by tribal villages, lakes, rivers and green forest on all sides, Iquitos is the perfect destination for adventurous tourists with a love of nature. Interesting history, unique architecture in the district of Belén, rustic stilt houses lining the Itaya River, and its massive open-air street market are additional reasons why this northern Amazon gem should be on your visit list.
