Peru

Lima - Peru’s largest city and capital, Lima, sits on the arid Pacific coast and is a great starting point for any Peruvian adventure. Founded in 1535, the colonial city center with its grand architecture has been well-preserved, while a modern city flourishes around it. The city is a culinary hotspot 400 years in the making, and boasts renowned restaurants offering a fusion of indigenous, Spanish, and Asian flavors. Lima is also home to some of the best museums and art galleries in the Americas, including the stunning Lima Cathedral.

Machu Picchu & The Sacred Valley - The Sacred Valley region of Peru is home to Machu Picchu. This was the heart of the Inca Empire, a civilization whose presence is still celebrated daily by visitors from around the world who come to see the ruins with their own eyes. Exploring Machu Picchu is the climax of any visit to this area, but your time in the valley will be anything but dull! Go whitewater rafting with a guide down the Urubamba River or hike any number of local trails, like nearby Rainbow Mountain.

Cusco - Considered the base camp for exploring Machu Picchu, the vibrant city of Cusco sits 11,152 feet above sea level. Its overwhelming beauty from sunrise to sunset deserves a few days to explore. The San Blas neighborhood nearly overflows with coffee stands, boutique artisanal shops, and amazing nightlife. Plenty of shopping awaits at one of the country's most colorful market, the Cuzco Handcraft Market or the markets of San Pedro, Wanchaq, and Baratillo.

Lake Titicaca - At an astonishing 12,500 feet above sea level, Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest navigable body of water. Straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia and protected by the Titicaca National Reserve, it is believed by ancient cultures to be the birthplace of the sun. Here, endangered aquatic wildlife like the giant water frog call the still waters of Titicaca home. Immerse yourself in this unusual landscape with a boat ride to the floating islands of Uros and Isla Taquile, where the local Taquileños people have a rich culture now supported by tourism.

Arequipa & Colca Canyon - To the south of Peru, you will find the ancient city of Arequipa. Framed by three volcanoes, the urban hub is a mix of modernity and history that discerning travelers have come to expect of South American cities.

Iquitos & The Amazon - Iquitos is one of the most isolated cities in all of Peru. Accessible only by boat or plane, this is a great jumping-off point for adventures in the Peruvian Amazon basin. During your time here, take a boat cruise along the river to the floating village of Belen, where a popular open-air market provides a dose of retail therapy. You won’t want to miss the butterfly sanctuary or animal rescue center, either. Explore the historical Plaza de Armas de Iquitos, or spend a day in nearby Santo Tomas Village, a popular destination for water-based activities just 45 minutes away.

Northern Peru - Trujillo, Chiclayo & Chachapoya. The northern part of Peru is a remarkable place for history and nature lovers. The town of Chachapoya, surrounded by a cloud forest at the foot of the Andes, is a photographer’s dream! Nearby 2,530-foot Gocta Waterfall is simply stunning, and is frequented by toucans, monkeys, and other endemic wildlife. On the northern coast, the town if Chiclayo is recognized for its historic involvement in the fight for independence from Spain. You’ll want to visit the Tucume pyramids dating back to the 1100’s; another of Peru’s incredible and well-preserved cultural sites. Trujillo, the coastal town to the south, is frozen in time. Its bright canary yellow and sky-blue buildings make for wonderful walking adventures.