Peru, land of the world famous Machu Picchu, the imposing Andes Mountains and the mysterious Nazca Lines. But there is much more to it than just the famous tourist sites. Think, for example, of an equally special Inca city, but without the crowds of tourists, or the hidden secrets in Cumbemayo. Embark on a real adventure and discover five as yet unknown highlights of Peru.
Choquequiro, literally 'cradle of gold' and also called 'mini Machu Picchu', is one of the most remote Inca ruins in Peru. The place can only be reached on foot and the trail takes about two days. Unlike the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you will hardly encounter other tourists on this route. The road to it is one of Peru's most challenging, spectacular and scenic drives, cutting through a deserted valley and then more than 3,000 meters up the mountain. The Inca city itself is a spacious complex and certainly just as impressive as Machu Picchu. Is the two-day walking tour a bit too adventurous for you? Next year the new cable car to Choquequirao will be finished!
On the edge of the Amazon in northern Peru lies the still undiscovered small mountain town of Chachapoyas. The culture in this town dates back to 700 AD and the area around it is considered one of the most beautiful areas of Peru. Untouched nature, fairytale mountains and valleys, jungles, unique bird species and one of the world's highest waterfalls:the Gocta waterfall, make this area a must visit during a trip to Peru.
The city of Huaraz itself, after rebuilding in the American style after an earthquake in 1970, is not the most beautiful place in Peru, but the surrounding mountains are certainly worth a visit. The beautiful mountain landscape consists of snow-capped peaks, elongated valleys and clear blue lakes. The place is therefore one of the best areas in South America for adventure activities. You can go mountain biking, mountaineering, rafting, hiking and even skiing here all year round.
Cumbemayo, located at an altitude of more than 3 kilometers near the city of Cajamarca, is one of those special places in Peru that is full of hidden secrets. Discover caves filled with petroglyphs, paths through the 'stone forest' and ingenious architecture. This place is over 3500 years old and is considered the third wonder of Peru. The highlight of this pre-Inca complex is the ancient aqueduct carved from volcanic rock. This 9 kilometer long aqueduct is one of the oldest man-made structures in South America and therefore very special to visit.
Manu National Park is one of the national parks in the Peruvian Amazon. According to biologists, this park is one of the world's most pristine natural areas and is therefore included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. With more than 200 species of mammals, 99 species of reptiles, more than 200 species of fish and more than 1000 different bird species, this is the place in the world with the greatest biodiversity. From Cusco it is about a four hour drive to the edge of the park. Take on the adventure and discover the tropical wilderness by canoe and spot freshwater dolphins, swinging monkeys and the impressive jaguar.
