By: Sandy Stevens
I recently spent 3 weeks in Peru and was amazed by its diversity. With a rich history and cultural treasures, mountain-top vistas and dense Amazon jungles, Peru’s variety of natural wonders is second to none. During week 1, I stayed in the Amazon rainforest at the fabulous Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica Lodge and enjoyed hiking excursions into the rainforest, canoeing in small wooden dug-out canoes, and piranha fishing. One of the most surprising aspects of the rainforest to me was how quiet it is at night.
The second week of my Peruvian adventure was designed by Backroads Active Travel Company, featuring hiking adventures in and around Cusco and The Sacred Valley, culminating with a trek along the Inca Trail into Machu Picchu. That day, on the Inca Trail entering Machu Picchu through The Sun Gate, ranks as one of the most unforgettable and best travel experiences of my life.
The final week of my trip was spent at Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. The sunrises and sunsets there were incredible, and it is a fantastic spot for star gazing as well. Finally, don’t forget about Lima, the primary gateway for air travel in and out of Peru. Lima is a very cosmopolitan city and home to some of the absolute best chefs in the world, so taking time for a nice meal there is a must.