Peru is a country of incredible diversity, spanning from the arid plains of the Pacific to the towering peaks of the Andes Mountains and the lush Amazon rainforest. A single visit might take you to Lima, Cuzco, and Machu Picchu, but the subsequent trips offer treasures like the colonial city of Arequipa, nestled beneath snow-capped volcanoes, and the Colca Canyon, twice as deep as the Grand Canyon.
Starting your journey in Lima, where international flights land, Miraflores stands out as an upmarket suburb and an excellent base. It boasts trendy restaurants, shops, and scenic beaches, including the new Larco Mar development with bars overlooking the Pacific sunset. Nearby, Parque Salazar hosts a statue of the famous Peruvian, Paddington Bear.
For chocolate enthusiasts, ChocoMuseo offers a bean-to-bar workshop, allowing you to learn the art of chocolate-making and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Huaca Pucllana, an ancient adobe and clay pyramid in Miraflores, dates back to 500 AD and was a significant ceremonial center for the Lima Culture.
In Lima, don't miss Museo Larco, housing the world's largest collection of Peruvian artifacts. Apart from traditional ceramics and textiles, the museum features a section dedicated to the erotic art of pre-Inca civilizations, providing a unique perspective on ancient Peruvian sexuality.
Arequipa, a 90-minute flight from Lima, is Peru's second-largest city, rich in colonial churches and mansions. With a backdrop of snow-capped volcanoes, Misti and Pichu, Arequipa offers historical gems like the Monasterio de Santa Catalina, a vast complex now partially open to the public.
Embark on a scenic four-hour car journey from Arequipa to Colca Canyon, a breathtaking natural wonder. Passing high passes and picturesque landscapes, you'll reach Chivay, the gateway to the canyon. Almost twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, Colca Canyon is a stunning 70km stretch with pre-Inca terracing visible on its upper edges.
The canyon is home to small villages, colonial churches, and vibrant markets. Villages like Yanque, around 7km from Chivay, offer impressive churches and bustling plazas. Explore the canyon's hot springs at Baños Termales de Chacapi, with temperatures perfect for relaxation.
Colca Canyon is a habitat for the Andean Condor, and Mirador Cruz del Cóndor provides an excellent vantage point to witness these magnificent birds soaring over the canyon. Hiking trails abound, but for a more leisurely experience, horses are available for rent.
Peru's diverse landscapes and cultural treasures make it a destination that beckons for multiple visits, each unveiling new wonders and experiences.