Peru holidays

The world-famous Inca Trail is a breathtakingly scenic hike, ending at the ruins of the 15th-century citadel, Machu Picchu. No wonder, then, that trekking is at the top of many people’s list of things to do in Peru. From lush green valleys dotted with traditional villages to the ice-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, you’ll find spectacle whichever path you take through the Andes.

A maze of rivers that feed the Amazon run the entire length of eastern Peru. Explore them via kayak alongside pink river dolphins, or go whitewater rafting through foaming rapids. On the border with Bolivia sits tranquil Lake Titicaca, 3,800 metres above sea level. Visit the Uros people who live on its floating reed islands, and watch the sunset over glittering blue waters.

Machu Picchu, the stone citadel built at over 2,400 metres on a mountain peak, is not only one of the world’s seven wonders — it’s also a historical mystery. For giant Andean condors and terraced agriculture that predates the Incas, don’t miss the Colca Canyon. Lima’s food scene is your go-to for tasting Peru’s native ingredients prepared by some of South America’s most creative chefs.

Surfers will love the beaches in Peru. Join the scene at popular Punta Hermosa, just south of Lima, or head north to catch a perfect wave all to yourself. From hip resort towns like Máncora to isolated fishing villages, there’s plenty of space along the country’s 2,500 kilometres of desert coastline. Try sport fishing, sandboard across South America’s largest dunes and explore otherworldly rock caves.

Peru’s rainforest is home to some of the most biodiverse habitats on the planet. Sloths and monkeys hang from the trees, jaguars and pumas stalk the undergrowth, and the murky waters hide giant anacondas and tiny piranhas. In the mountains, watch the giant Andean condor take flight. Visit the Islas Ballestas, a marine sanctuary off the southern coast, to spot penguins, sea lions and blue-footed boobies.

The museums in Peru reflect the country’s epic history, both ancient and modern. The Museo Regional de Ica’s impressive collection features 2,000-year-old textiles and ceramics. And Museo de Arte de Lima houses thousands of works of Peruvian art spanning three millennia in a colonial palace. Lima’s bohemian Barranco district is home to many of the country’s artists today.

Lima has blossomed into one of the food capitals of the world, putting street eats and restaurants in Peru on the map. Seafood is a major ingredient at the best spots. You’ll find it in soups, stews, ceviche and seasoned with native aji mochero chilli. Head to Arequipa to sample alpaca steak and mountain potatoes in one of its traditional, female-run ‘picanterías’ (lunchtime restaurants).