“Nowadays, we throw around the word sublime to describe gooey desserts or overpriced handbags. In Kant’s epistemology it meant something limitless and aesthetically pleasing, an entity so huge it made the perceiver’s head hurt.
Machu Picchu isn’t just beautiful, it’s sublime.”
Home to one of the seven wonders of the world, llamas, rich culture and great food. Peru has long been a tourist destination, and it continues to attract travellers from all walks of life, budgets and every corner of the globe.
Whilst most people will focus their two week getaway on the Sacred Valley, there is much more to this South American wonderland.
Whether you want to spend your days hiking through canyons, to glacier lakes or along Incan ruins, exploring the unique indigenous culture, enjoying vast cosmopolitan cities or simply relaxing beside the ocean, this is a country it is impossible to be bored in.
We do however have a word of warning for those more used to getting off the beaten track - you will be sharing your experiences with literally thousands of others. The days of enjoying Peru in solitude are long gone.
SO, YOU'RE THINKING OF GOING TO PERU?
Arriving into the north of the country? Make a beeline for the ocean and head to Mancora (our favourite Peruvian beach town) or Huanchaco to take on the longest left-hand break in the world whilst also discovering centuries old ruins. Then hop on a bus and enjoy our favourite hiking spot - Huaraz. The region's hikes were by far some of the most beautiful on our trip.
Next stop? Lima, the cosmopolitan capital. Few travellers hang around this metropolis for long, but give it a few days and you may just see yourself settling for some time.
If you're more of a nature lover than a city-slicker, then Paracas would suit you perfectly. Just a short boat-ride away from this little beach town is the country's answer to the Galapagos Islands and a great place for spotting seals and penguins.
After a few days of sun and sand, head south to experience one of Peru's big draws with a short flight over the Nazca Lines. They're not cheap, but are definitely a must-see before jumping on a snowboard and flying down the sand dunes in Huacachina.
Arequipa, one of the country's prettiest town is a great place to recharge those batteries, wander the streets with a camera and prepare for your next adventure - the Colca Canyon.
Whether you take the cheapest way possible like us, hike the Inca trail or hop on the train, no trip to Peru is complete without the inclusion of Machu Picchu - just make sure you leave enough time to explore the Sacred Valley too.
Want more adventure? Don't forget Iquitos, the gateway to the Amazon, for all sorts of wildlife close-encounters.
If you're on your way to Bolivia, stop and enjoy the slow-pace of life around Lake Titicaca - make the effort to escape the tourist trail and this place might just surprise you.
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