While Peru is still classed as a developing country, its economy is growing fast which has allowed it to build excellent tourism infrastructure, and turning it into one of the principal tourist attractions of South America. The modern cosmopolitan metropolis of Lima, the capital, has many high-class hotels and is also famed for its excellent cuisine - especially seafood.

LANDSCAPE

Peru is made up of three distinct regions with the coastal desert strip, home to the mysterious Nazca Lines; the snow-capped Andean mountains at the heart of the ancient Inca civilization, as well as Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake. In stark contrast, it also has the green, humid eastern slopes that run into the lush tropical plains of the Amazon basin. 

CULTURE 

Bustling markets abound, such as in the Sacred Valley, where locals dressed in traditional clothing sell their produce and colourful hand-woven articles, carrying on an ancient weaving tradition. 

FLORA & FAUNA 

Each region boasts delights for the traveller, from the Ballestas Islands in the Pacific, to the Andes, where condors soar above to Colca Canyon, and on to the dense, impenetrable Amazon rainforest where giant bromeliads can take a century to flower. 

HISTORY 

The land of the Incas, famed for the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu, is a living testament to the once great empire whose golden treasures continue to be unearthed each day. One can see ancient ruins shrouded in mist and mystery dotted throughout the country, whilst on the coast unknown peoples have etched large images and mysterious lines in the desert which can only be fully appreciated from the air. In Cusco, Inca foundations blend with stunning colonial mansions and many churches show a fascinating mix of pagan and Christian beliefs.

CLIMATE

Peru's proximity to the equator gives it a sub-tropical climate, although much variation is caused by altitude. Coastal areas have moderate to warm temperatures with high humidity year-round , and Lima itself is renowned for its overcast skies. In the Andes rain is frequent during the summer (December to March) while the winter skies are often clear with temperatures getting lower, especially at night.

Please see our climate chart for more information.

HAND PICKED GUIDES

All of our guides are chosen specially by Veloso Tours or our ground agents, in order to provide you with the best experience in every destination.