Peru trip | Pure enjoyment in Peru with Amazon cruise

The Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve is Peru’s largest protected area and by far the largest protected wetland reserve in the world, criss-crossed by lakes, palm swamps and streams. The reserve receives an average annual rainfall of nearly 3,000 mm and becomes a flooded forest during the rainy season.
It is a biodiversity hotspot, where visitors have the chance to experience an astonishing variety of wildlife. Among the primate species are the monk saki monkey, with its grey and black body, bare face and long, shaggy tail, and the saddle-backed tamarin, whose high-pitched chirps can easily be mistaken for those of a flock of birds.
It is also a good place to spot the beautiful morpho butterfly, fluttering lazily along open paths through the forest or along the riverbanks of lowland woodland on sunny days, as well as a large number of bird species including parrots, macaws, hawks and the boisterous laughing falcon, named for its loud falsetto call.

Nauta, a dusty riverside town near the confluence of the Marañón and Ucayali rivers, offers a fascinating glimpse into a more traditional lifestyle on the Amazon. It was founded in 1830 by Manuel Pacaya, the leader of the Cocoma tribe, who wanted to establish a permanent settlement for his people after they rebelled against the Lagunas Jesuit mission. Visitors, often en route to jungle lodges or river boats, can explore the lively market and sights such as the Plaza de Armas with a historic Catholic church. The artificial lagoon Sapi Sapi is home to rare turtles and fish, such as the yellow-spotted river turtle, the Arrau tortoise and the arapaima. Mirador de Nauta, a ten-storey observation tower at the confluence of the Marañón, Ucayalí and Mantaro rivers, offers panoramic views of the rainforest. Nature lovers can take a trip to Quebrada Gasparito (Little Gaspar Creek), a short distance by canoe from town; the perfect place for a picnic by the water.

Located on the banks of the Amazon River in northeast Peru, the remote city of Iquitos is only accessible by plane or a 3,600-kilometre boat ride along the river. The city is considered one of the best places to experience the adventure of an Amazon River cruise, and for jungle tours that allow visitors to observe the colourful fauna and flora.

Lima was the capital of the Spanish Vice-Kingdom of Peru in colonial times. Around the 'Plaza de Armas' and the 'Plaza de San Martin', the buildings bear witness to the wealth of yesteryear. You can take beautiful city walks past various monuments such as the cathedral, the Peruvian parliament building and the monastery of San Francisco. Lima's colonial centre is also on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Striking in Lima are the cliffs that rise from the sea almost immediately behind the narrow beach and highway. As a result, the entire coastline has spectacular views. A fine example of the vistas over the Pacific Ocean can be found in Miraflores district, also known as Lima's business district and also a district of luxury shops, embassies and hotels. Larcomar, a mall carved into the rocks, is particularly special. A little further south from Miraflores is the artists' district of Barranco. Along the Bridge of Sighs you will find the best restaurants here.

The world's longest mountain range, the Andes, stretches along the western coastline of South America, from Venezuela to Argentina. However, the northern Andes includes only Venezuela, Colombia and Ecuador. The area boasts some of the richest tropical mountain forests on earth and is home to a large number of species including most of the world's spectacular bears. Seven different ecoregions can be found along the way, as well as numerous charming colonial towns, Inca ruins and, of course, Bogota - the capital of Colombia and the third-highest city in South America, at 2,640 metres above sea level.

Peru is best known for the sacred archaeological site Machu Picchu, visited every year by intrepid hikers who brave the arduous slopes of the Inca Trail to explore the ancient ruins. But the country has much more to offer besides the mystical allure of this legendary site. Among other palm-fringed beaches, quaint Andean villages and archaeological treasures dating back hundreds of years before Machu Picchu, everything is infused with a rich melange of the country's indigenous and colonial cultures. Equally enticing are the exotic corners of Peru's Amazon rainforest, extraordinary dining options in Lima, stunning architecture and vibrant nightlife, the shimmering mountain-lined waters of Lake Titicaca and the bustling city of Cusco, referred to by the Incas as 'the centre of the world'.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas includes dozens of ruins dating back to the Inca era. There are also several indigenous markets where you can stroll through and buy typical colourful rugs and other goodies. The name of the valley is aptly chosen, as the special surroundings with snow-capped peaks and the rugged Urubamba River that meanders through the area are truly beautiful.

On the eastern slopes of the Andes in Bolivia's La Paz Department, the Yungas region links highland plateaus with the Amazon basin. Steep valleys descend from over 4,000 metres to subtropical lowlands, creating varied microclimates that sustain cloud forests, farmland, and rivers. Historically, this corridor facilitated trade between Andean and Amazonian communities, leaving a legacy of agricultural terraces and traditional villages. The North Yungas centres on Coroico, reached via mountain roads that pass waterfalls and dense vegetation, while the South Yungas includes Chulumani, surrounded by coffee and coca plantations. Trails connect small settlements and viewpoints overlooking deep valleys. Wildlife ranges from spectacled bears to tropical birds, attracting researchers and hikers. The dry season from May to September suits trekking and cycling, whereas the wet months intensify river flow and turn slopes a brighter green.

Machu Picchu Pueblo is a riverside city known for its famous Machu Picchu ruins. This cloud forest city is surrounded by towering forested cliffs and boasts an endless array of hotels, restaurants, markets and labyrinthine streets. Machu Picchu Pueblo, also known as Aguas Calientes, is an excellent base to explore the famous ancient archaeological site of Machu Picchu. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of other activities, including: a relaxing massage after a long day of exploration, a hike through the lush rainforest to the Mandor Falls, an adventurous hike up Mount Putucusi or a visit to the relaxing thermal baths with the Andes as a backdrop. Also, don't miss the Machu Picchu Museum and Botanical Gardens.

Located more than 1,800 metres above sea level in mountain peaks of Peru, Machu Picchu is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. This legendary city was abandoned by the Inca Empire, taken over by the jungle and only rediscovered in 1911. Built by the Incas atop "Machu Picchu" (Old Summit), you will find the "Lost City of Machu Picchu", a site of extraordinary beauty and enormous archaeological significance. It reflects the Inca Empire at its peak, with giant walls, terraces and slopes that seem to have been carved into the rock formations. The phenomenal technological skills of the Inca engineers can be seen in many facets of the place: the high precision of the massive stone buildings, the water channels that reveal a deep understanding of hydraulics, and Intihuatana (the highest point of the Sun), which served as a solar calendar that regulated planting and harvesting.

Cusco, the former capital of the Incas (the name Cusco means ‘navel of the earth’ in Quechua, the language of the Incas), is unlike any other city in the world. The colonial buildings are constructed on the foundations of the Incas, which are still clearly visible in many places. The city boasts an endless array of monuments and sights and is beautifully situated in a valley. Artists, scientists, indigenous people and tourists come together here, creating a magical atmosphere that you simply must experience.
There are many ways to enjoy and explore Cusco and its surroundings. A trip to the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, an excursion to the salt terraces or to a shamanic village are just a few of the many varied options. Cusco is also the perfect place to relax on a terrace or to explore the many alleyways and shopping streets.

The Amazon is the world's largest rainforest with biodiversity unmatched anywhere in the world. The Amazon River, together with all its tributaries, forms by far the largest system of rivers in the world. The area spans nine countries including Brazil. It is the habitat of 20% of all birds and plants, and 10% of all mammals on earth. Surpassing and mega figures aside, a stay in the jungle is surely the way to turn numbers into experiences. The rich flora and fauna exceed any visitor's expectations. By boat and on foot, explore the rainforest and look for monkeys, parrots, crocodiles and other jungle animals!

Mancora is a coastal town located in northwestern Peru. Located in Talara province, it is known for its, by Peruvian standards, beautiful beaches and high waves that make it a true surf destination. The tropical climate makes this location a wonderful year-round temperature to stay in and recover from all the impressions gained during the trip. Enjoy sun, sea and beach the Peruvian way. You will find numerous restaurants and shops in the cosy coastal town. Don't forget to eat fresh ceviche on a terrace and toast the beautiful trip!