Explore Peru

Explore Peruhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peruExplore Peruhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/ausangate-trek-5-magic-days-in-the-peruvian-andesFar less traveled than the Inca Trail, this trek around sacred Ausangate mountain offers spectacular scenery, comfortable lodging, and opportunities to visit local communities. 2023-11-27T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/ausangate-trek-5-magic-days-in-the-peruvian-andeshttps://www.worldnomads.comIt’s a blustery afternoon in Ocefina, Peru, and we are trudging through its rugged green valley, eyed warily by the thousands of llamas and alpacas that litter the mountainsides. Our guides are Jesús, a permanent grin beneath a heavy cap, and Josef, younger and more reserved, who both bounce alongside our group, merrily informing us about the flora and fauna of the area, its customs and history, its people and their lives. My spirits are high as I take it all in but I’m still nervous for what lies ahead. Ausangate, Peru’s 5th highest peak, sits approximately 62mi (100km) southeast of Cusco in the south of <a href="/explore/south-america/peru">Peru</a>. Looming at 20,905ft (6,372m) above sea level, this mountain dominates the Vilcanota mountain range, an imposing, icy figure standing well above its neighbors. But despite its intimidating aura, Ausangate has an undeniable beauty to it, and right now travelers can enjoy a truly unique experience within its domain. <ul> <li><a href="#ausangate">Hiking Ausangate Mountain</a></li> <li><a href="#eco">Comfortable eco lodges</a></li> <li><a href="#pass">Tackling Palomani Pass</a></li> <li><a href="#rainbow">A visit to Rainbow Mountain</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="ausangate">Hiking Ausangate Mountain</h2> Beginning and ending in the rural community of Ocefina, we’ll be <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/hiking-travel-insurance">hikin</a>g 34mi (55km) over five days on a looping route that passes the base of the giant peak, visiting the local Andean communities that have called this area home for generations on the way. Although most travelers come to Peru for Machu Picchu or the Inca Trail, this Ausangate trail lets you dive deep into the nooks and crannies of rural Cusco, while retaining some home comforts: we’re staying in traditional, community-run Andean lodges, heated by open fires and served delicious food prepared by a talented local team – perfect for the traveler who wants to challenge themselves by day but sleep in a comfy bed at night. It might sound dreamy, but it’s not going to be a walk in the park. The entire trek never drops below 13,120ft (4,000m) and we’ll be scaling multiple steep passes; I’m no natural-born hiker, but this would be challenging for almost anyone. Thankfully, our first day begins relatively easily: after a three-hour drive from Cusco, we jump out into the crisp air and are immediately greeted by the local ladies of Ocefina for a short masterclass into their native textile weavings, creating stunning handmade crafts found only in this area. It’s the perfect chance to buy anything we might’ve forgotten for the journey, as well as <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/the-ethical-traveler-s-guide-to-souvenir-shopping">supporting the ladies’ local economy.</a> <h2 id="eco">Comfortable eco lodges</h2> After an hours’ walk through the lush, green community of Chillca, we arrive at our first lodge and meet the team we’ll be traveling with. We have a small army of horsemen carrying our food supplies and acting as <a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered/overseas-medical">potential “ambulances”</a>, llamamen with our possessions strapped to their flock, chefs producing lunches and dinners of fresh salads, quinoa soups, and local trout, and housekeeping ladies all working together to look after us on our journey. All of this has been arranged by Cusco-based Andean Lodges in partnership with Tropic, a company that works behind the scenes to craft thoughtful itineraries for travelers mostly in Peru and Ecuador. I take a warm shower in a private bathroom, then fall into a dead sleep, surrounded by candlelight and hot water bottles, while the outside temperatures plummet. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/peru/ausangate/guides-and-staff.jpg" alt="Local trekking guides and porters for the Ausangate trek in Peru." /> <figcaption>Some members of our trekking team. Image credit: Megan FitzGerald</figcaption></figure> After a hearty breakfast of coca tea, eggs, and fresh bread (cheered on by hand-carved fruit animals) the real work begins on our second day as we move onto Machuracay. Jesús is invaluable as our guide, pointing out hidden secrets in the land: a cave where a native owl perches, or a Giant Hummingbird skirting the high rocks. Though it’s an unforgiving landscape, more than 110 species of bird and 25 species of mammals frequent this region, so we crane our necks as we move along on this unexpected safari. Planning a trip to Peru? Find out <a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered">how travel insurance can cover</a> adventure activities, lost or stolen baggage, sudden illness and more. <h2 id="pass">Tackling Palomani Pass</h2> We ascend higher and the air cools. We navigate glaciers and turquoise bodies of water that appear as the grass fades into rocky terrain, and I have to admit it's exhausting. Watching our local companions skip past gives me motivation to continue, even just out of embarrassment, and I manage to climb further, until I find myself clinging to the sharp incline of the ochre-colored Palomani Pass at 16,730ft (5,100m). The twin bowls of nothingness on either side of me are so vast I can’t help but envision myself floating off into the stratosphere like some sort of rogue astronaut, and this fleeting feeling of gravity-based confusion keeps recurring. Every now and then, as I take in exactly where I am, gazing down at the vast basin of Lake Ausangate, or hearing the cannon-fire echoes of glaciers cracking, the feeling of being in the normal world leaves me. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/peru/ausangate/red-hills-and-lake.jpg" alt="Dramatic hills and lakes along the Asangate trek in the Peruvian Andes.." /> <figcaption>Dramatic hills and lakes along the trek. Image credit: Megan FitzGerald</figcaption></figure> Perhaps that’s the point – Ausangate is intensely sacred, not seen just as a mountain but as a god – and revered by the locals that call the area home. Julio, one of our llamamen, blesses us before we enter its region, asking for our protection as we navigate its rocky terrain. We each place three coca leaves on a small cloth along with some other offerings (thread, corn kernels, cookies), which Julio folds into a bundle and sets alight, sending smoke plumes skyward. I’m not a spiritual person at all, but I find myself unexpectedly emotional being given the chance to pray to Ausangate for assistance. Maybe I’m still nervous. A certain energy permeates the air as we continue. It’s not lost on me how lucky we are to be in such a special place. <h2 id="rainbow">A visit to Rainbow Mountain</h2> Our fourth day brings us to <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/alternatives-to-the-inca-trail">Rainbow Mountain</a>, a kaleidoscopic landscape of reds, greens, and blues, formed by rich natural iron and magnesium deposits, and is, somewhat inevitably, hugely popular with tourists – around 1,500 a day. We’re all slightly perplexed: after days of having only each other and the landscape for company, to suddenly hear ATVs roaring up the hillside from Cusco and see swarms of people on the mountaintops is slightly jarring. “I have nothing against people,” Jesús chirps from next to me as we pause, “but I love places without them.” I can’t help but agree. Our previous days' trekking have spoiled us, and as gorgeous as Rainbow Mountain is, it’s just one part of a huge amalgamation of color and landscape in this stunning area; the joy of this journey is that we get to see so much more of it. We spend some time navigating the crowds before scurrying through a distant archway and on to Red Valley, where the faces of the sleeping Pururauca are etched into the mountainside. It’s as if we plunge back into the secret world we were in before, and the shift in environment is extreme – it’s a prehistoric-feeling land, where the mountains are the backs of giant, dark monsters, sharp and jagged in comparison to the woozy green vistas of before. After a final night sleeping under a thundering sky, we spend our last day climbing the final Anta Pass, then running (literally) entirely downhill, before we say goodbye to our hosts back in Ocefina. It feels strange to be such a small group again, and as we rumble back to Cusco to the sound of car horns and revving engines, I find myself already missing the mountains. My new friends drive away and I step onto the cobbled street I stood on five days before and gaze at the mountain-line in the distance, wondering where I’ll trek next.Megan FitzGerald 0

Mangoes and Machu Picchu | Peru Travel Storyhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/connection/mangoes-and-machu-picchuMangoes and Machu Picchu | Peru Travel StoryWed, 09 Aug 2023 23:59:52 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/connection/mangoes-and-machu-picchuVideo: Ayahuasca Artists of the Amazonhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/connection/ayahuasca-artists-of-the-amazonVideo: Ayahuasca Artists of the AmazonThu, 15 Feb 2018 22:55:41 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/connection/ayahuasca-artists-of-the-amazonVideo: Living Inca Traditions | Peru Travelhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/living-inca-traditionsVideo: Living Inca Traditions | Peru TravelTue, 06 Feb 2018 23:47:10 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/living-inca-traditionshttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/the-world-nomads-podcast-episode-9-peruListen to Episode 9 of The World Nomads Podcast. We chat about alternative treks to Machu Picchu, incredible surfing on the coast, and travel health in Peru. 2018-02-06T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/the-world-nomads-podcast-episode-9-peruhttps://www.worldnomads.com<div> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2V9BgOBKU7Mu64Jii8i9DY?si=ucNEpy2dQ_GZeHkenEK_UQ"><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Podcast/spotify%20logo%20green.png" style="width: 46px; height: 46px;" alt="“Listen" on="" spotify="" /></a>   <a href="https://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=154934&refid=stpr"><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Podcast/stitcher-logo-120x46.jpg" style="width: 120px; height: 46px;" alt="Listen on Stitcher" /></a></div> <h2>Episode 9: Peru.</h2> An extremely biodiverse country, with landscapes ranging from the arid plains of the Pacific coastal region in the west, to the peaks of the Andes Mountains. Want to know more about Peru? Head to our <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/south-america/peru/living-inca-traditions">Stories</a> section to delve a little deeper. <h2 class="p1">What's in the Episode</h2> 00:13 - Welcome 01:13 - Travel Quiz: Which is the second largest city in Peru? 01:24 – British actor Matt Lacey famous for playing Orlando in the Gap Yah comedy sketch which went viral on YouTube. 08:00 – Surf’s up in Peru. “They build these big old boards out of what we call Totora Reed. They've been using them at least 3500 years.  So that's part of this original or this very old ancient history that several civilizations have used that kind of make it very significant around the world as the origin of surfing” – Amy Schwartz Unleash Surf 13:00 - We check in to find out what our World Nomads are up to. 16:35 – Travel News: The pig that pooped on the plane! 20:15 – Trekking Peru “… it's the only place where I have seen a condor like three meters right in front of me going to the highest point of Choquequirao, right at the platform” -  Efrain Valles Morales 26:54 –  Dr Hamish Black talks vaccinations for South America and answers the big question, is there a parasite in the Amazon that swims up your stream of urine? 32:39 – Quiz Question Answer. 33:06 - What's next in Episode 10? <h2 class="p1">Who's on the Show?</h2> Amy Schwartz from <a href="https://www.unleashsurf.com/locations/huanchaco-peru/">Unleash Surf</a> - pack your lap-top and work while you surf. <a href="http://efrain_perutrek@hotmail.com/">Efrain Valles Morales</a> is a guide who knows all the top spots to trek in Peru and those you may not have heard about. Actor Matt Lacey also known as Orlando from the YouTube comedy sketch Gap Yah. Dr Hamish Blake World Nomads Emergency Assistance. <h2 class="p1">Resources & Links</h2> Get the World Nomads Insider's Guide to Peru by <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/guides/peru-insiders-guide" target="_blank">clicking this</a>, or by filling in the form on the right hand side of this page. Orlando’s Gap Yah on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKFjWR7X5dU">YouTube</a> Facebook live footage of Japan’s Hadaka Matsuri Festival also known as the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/worldnomads/videos/10154327224540994/">Naked Man Festival.</a> Want to more about festivals in Japan, read our World Nomads <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/eastern-asia/japan/japanese-festivals">articles</a> or watch our <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4Bz_kTFwPQ&index=2&list=PLpXPo3FsodmVR5KXS-7wvdSgvJcCD1KuI">video series</a>. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/worldnomads/">Follow World Nomads on Instagram</a> for the latest stories, and #WorldNomads for your chance to be featured. <h2 class="p1">Share Episodes with Your Audience</h2> Want to share an episode you loved, or you were a guest? Do it with this Player Embed code. <h6 style="padding-left: 30px;"><iframe width="100%" height="200" src="https://player.whooshkaa.com/player/episode/id/174058?visual=true&sharing=true" frameborder="0" style="width: 100%; height: 200px"></iframe></h6> <h2 class="p1">Want to Talk to us?</h2> We want to hear from you! If you have any travel insurance questions to <a href="mailto:podcast@worldnomads.com">Ask Phil</a>, want to give us feedback on the episode, or have suggestions for topics you'd like us to cover, email us at <a href="mailto:podcast@worldnomads.com">podcast@worldnomads.com</a> <h2 class="p1">Sign up for Podcast News</h2> Explore your boundaries and discover your next adventure with The World Nomads Podcast. Hosted by Podcast Producer Kim Napier and World Nomads Phil Sylvester, each episode will take you around the world with insights into destinations from travellers and experts. They’ll share the latest in travel news, answer your travel questions and fill you in on what World Nomads is up to, including the latest scholarships and guides. The World Nomads Podcast is not your usual travel Podcast. It’s everything for the adventurous, independent traveller. Don’t miss out. Subscribe today. <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">Full Transcript of the Episode</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner">  The World Nomad's Podcast, it's not your usual travel podcast, it's everything for the adventurous, independent traveler. Kim: Hi my name is Kim and welcome to our podcast delivered by World Nomads, the travel, lifestyle and insurance brand covering more than half a million travelers. Now my fellow co-host is Phil. Phil: Hi there. Kim: And where are we off to this episode, episode nine? Phil: Kim we're going to Peru, and extremely bio diverse country with habitats ranging from the arid planes of the pacific coastal region in the west to the peaks of the Andes mountains. Kim: Yes and we will touch on both in this episode, when we chat with Effie, and Inca trail guide who offers some alternative trips to the very popular Machu Picchu, which is arguably the biggest draw county in Peru. But Phil it's being overrun with travelers. Phil: Yeah. And Amy Schwartz from Unleash Surf, a company that allows you to work while you surf. Plus Dr. Haymitch Black about vaccinations for South America. And we ask "Is it true, there's a parasite in the Amazon that swims up your stream of urine?" Kim: Yeah there's no we in this, you asked. Okay all that to come and more but in each World Nomads Podcast we kick off with Phil's quiz question. Phil: Pretty simple geography question today. The capital of Peru is Lima. But which is the second largest city? The answer will be at the end of the podcast. Kim: Our first guest is Matt Lacey. Now Matt is a British actor and comedian and he's best known for his role as Ben in the BBC TV series Cuckoo. And Orlando in Gap Yard, it's a comedy sketch and it went absolutely viral around the world. In fact his pronunciation of Peru became a global catchphrase. Let's just have a little listen in case you haven't heard it before. Matt Lacey: That really reminds me of this time on my gap year. I was in South America in Peru, Peru. No Peru darling Peru. Peru, okay oh yeah Peru Peru yeah, wonderful country. You know beautiful people. Yeah. Yeah no we were trekking in the Andes and the sun was just rising and glinting off the snow creating this sort of ethereal haze. And I really got a sense of the awesome power of nature and the insignificance of man. You know then I just chundered everywhere. I was like all over the snow. I was like have that nature, one nil. Kim: I so love that, Peru darling Peru. Matt thanks for being part of the show. That youtube clip by the way has had six million views. Matt Lacey: Wow is it six million? Phil: No pressure. Matt Lacey: It's funny hearing it back. I haven't heard it for a while. No I didn't, and to be honest I think if I had known I would have put it on my own YouTube channel and not the guys who filmed it. Kim: What was the motivation behind it? Matt Lacey: Oh it's all written from life. I met a lot of people at university that sort of spent the year vomiting all over the developing world. Was very keen to tell everyone about it. And I mean there's several that sort of sort of self parody. I don't live in Fulham but I did actually go on a gap year. And I went to Peru, you can ask about that. Kim: So look at Peru, Peru darling. What did you think of Peru? Matt Lacey: Yeah it's a beautiful place. I checked some fairly normal boxes, going down to Cusco. Did the Inca trail and stuff but they're popular for a reason. Kim: Did you chunder anywhere? Matt Lacey: I don't think so. I managed to keep the deep fried guinea pig down as far as I could remember. Phil: I couldn't go there, I tried that there. I couldn't go there. You didn't did you? Matt Lacey: Yeah I did. It's a cliché but it tasted like chicken. Sort of the brown meat of chicken. Kim: Where else have you been around the world? Matt Lacey: Lot's of different places. So after the gap year I'd been broke. The Telegraph serialized my book. By the way that's still on sale. Look for that, the hardcore fans. And yeah after they serialized they sent me to South Africa to live on a lion preserve. I wrote a fantastic puff piece about it. So that was fun. Most recently I've been going to Europe a lot, just because it's quite easy. So most recently I've sort of ... My most interesting trips have been based around weird festivals. And in Europe there are an absolute plethora. So I recently went to one in the Bath Country where they string a goose cadaver on a wire and then loaded boats go past it. And the locals try to jump onto the goose cadaver as it gets flipped up and down into the air. If they fall off they lose, but if they manage to hold on and thus decapitate the goose, they win. Generally is you scratch the surface in Spain and the Basque Country, every small town will have some sort of weird festival that you can go to. You know some of them they replace their goose with a rubber goose. I think for animal rights reasons. Phil: In the more ethically sound towns of Basque country. Matt Lacey: Yeah. Phil: I reckon you should go to the one in Japan. We've got a film where we covered it on World Nomads. It's the naked man festival in Japan. Kim: Yeah it's on there. Phil: No men only. Matt Lacey: They go off to that island and all get naked. Phil: Yeah well there's- Matt Lacey: I think I read about that. Phil: Yeah there's this really strange ... And there's thousands of men just wearing loin cloths basically inside this temple. And the priest lobs a stick into the crowd and then they all fight for it. And then the person who picks it up and puts it into a receptacle gets, I don't know good luck for a year. So it's like this thronging mass of you know a thousand fifteen hundred semi naked blokes. It's amazing. Matt Lacey: When I went to Japan, I particularly remember the Onsen, the hot baths which are amazing. That some of them really don't have the capacity for the naked men that want to kill each other. I was nearly sort of, to put it bluntly had bits slung against by an elderly Japanese man. Tried to get into the plunge pool. So I guess that's probably good training for the naked man festival. Kim: Thanks so much for having a chat. It's a real pleasure particularly as a fan of Orlando. Matt thank you very much. Phil:  Thanks Matt. Matt Lacey: No worries. Kim: We'll have that clip in our show notes for you to see in full plus links to where you can buy Matt's book, The Gap Year Planner. Phil when you mentioned we were doing a podcast on Peru, and then you said "Hey I wanna follow up with a chat on surfing." I was thinking "Is he mad? Peru and surfing." But they go hand in hand. Phil: A massive coastline there as well. And nothing between Peru and Asia basically. Kim: I know but I just didn't think. And hence we got in touch with Amy and she's going to educate me and perhaps everyone else that's listening that wasn't aware of this fantastic surf culture in Peru. Hi how are you going? Amy: Good how are you? Kim: Well I'm well but I'm feeling a little, not underwhelmed but undereducated. Phil's right you know there's a massive coastline. Tell us about this surfing culture. Amy: Sure. So it's one of these places that is not necessarily on every bodies kind of surfing travel journey map. But in terms of like South America or the kind of Western Hemisphere, it's probably like the Indonesia of Latin America or North and South America. Because it does have this long coastline and it's broken up by a fair number of point breaks. Which means that the swell comes in and kind of breaks gradually along a point. Which for a surfer is generally kind of the ideal setup for a wave. Not all surfers will say that but most of us I think would. So Peru is really sort of well designed. Most of Peru gets waves literally every day of the year. It is a very very rare day when it's flat. So it's pretty special in that sense. Phil: And what sort of quality surf are we talking about? Are we talking about big waves that you get there or is it always smaller or varies? Amy: Yeah great question. Again it depends. It's usually ... I don't want to make it seem like the land of the perfect wave but it's often kind of the perfect size. So I'm not sure what you use in Australia but in Canada we usually use feet. So it's usually between like three and six feet on most days. And where we are right now, which is Huanchaco which is just eight hours North of Lima. So it's sort of in North Peru but not super North. It's got, it generally has like a good size swell that's good for almost any level of surfer from kind of beginner to intermediate. But then if it does get really big, there's other spots that you can go to that kind of hold a bigger swell. Huanchaco became a world surf reserve partially because of it's history, which again has this kind of culture. Which is actually a fishing culture. So they build these big old boards out of what's called Totora reed. So it's just a reed that they cut in the swamp. And they use them kind of like a stand up paddle board. But they've been using them at least 3500 years. So that's part of this kind of original or this very old ancient history. But several civilizations have used, kind of make it very significant around the world as the origin of surfing. So that was part of the reason why it was considered significant enough to become a world surf reserve. And it's got a really sort of alive surf culture in the sense that you had this traditional surfing or fishing craft that is considered the first surfboard or the original surfboard that you see going in and out of kind of the surf break every day. And then you have surfers surfing around these kind of very traditional ancient surfing craft. So it's a pretty special atmosphere. There's nowhere else I've even been that has this kind of living history along with kind of modern surfing. Phil: Alright amazing but I've got about a dozen questions to ask you then. I'm just gonna back track a long way, 3500 year old surfboard. The history from that and what does a Peruvian surfboard, that's the reed thing that you're talking about. Is that right? Amy: Yup it's called Caballito de Totora. Which means basically like seahorse of the reed. So the reed is Totora. Phil: Peruvians claiming surfing, is that what you're saying? Amy: Yeah and it's interesting because there's a long ... I would say the modern history of surfing has really held onto this idea that you know modern surfing came from Hawaii. Which and don't quote me on this, but in the eighties when the first ISA World Champion Felipe Pomar, who now lives in Hawaii actually but he's Peruvian kind of brought evidence of this to Surfer Magazine and did a big article on it in Surfer Magazine. And stirred up the pot about where did surfing really originate? And if you have evidence of this civilization using this kind of a board 3500 years ago. Well it definitely shows it's older than the Hawaiian tradition. Kim: Let's just pause Amy there while we check in Phil with our World Nomads. What do you like about traveling? Male 1:Um my favorite part about traveling is meeting new people. Kim: And what about you? Male 2: I guess running into stuff like this. Kim: So do you find that when you are a traveler that people are more likely to approach you? Male 2: Yup. Kim: What about you, what do you like about traveling? Male 3: Um mostly just you know the girls, the partying you know. Getting into the new culture, a little bit of this a little bit of that. And just you know getting fucked up basically. Kim:Well I have picked that are drinking a few brews and have their musical instruments out so I reckon we'll finish on that note with a bit of what you were playing when I interrupted you. Male 3: (Playing music) Kim: We're with Amy Schwartz from Unleashed Surf who has just given us a rundown on surfing in Peru, including its amazing history. But if you're a surfer then Amy has an incredible opportunity for you. Amy: We've been coming to and from Peru, we're from Canada, for about I don't know seven/eight years now. And surfing lots of different waves up and down the coast. And we really fell in love with this place I mentioned already, Huanchaco. Partially because of this long old surfing tradition which is still very much alive. But because the wave is really accessible to all levels of surfers. So two years ago we were here and my partner was working remotely. He has a web design business. And we were just kind of thinking about what's next in life and we were thinking about "We would love to take other people who can work remotely to a place like Huanchaco where you can have really great Wifi. You can surf literally every single day of the year. And if it gets too big here then you can take people to Chicama, which is the longest left in the world." It's about an hour from here so when it gets really big here it works really well there in Chicama. So you've got lots of options for waves in the region and we thought "Well-" ... And also the other thing about Huanchaco is you can walk to everything. So we were like "This is the perfect place to kind of just hang out for a month, get your work done, but also everyday before you work go out and surf." And then at lunchtime you can go out and surf and in the evening you can go and surf. You can surf your face off all day but still get your work done. So we decided that we would start a business where we basically take people who can work remotely but wanna have kind of a more wholesome surf lifestyle and bring them here. We set them up with everything that they need. So we get them a private apartment rather than kind of a hotel room. We want them to fell like they're really living here. So we get them a private apartment, surf lessons or surf coaching, Spanish lessons, yoga, and then we do either surf tours or other kinds of trips and tours on the weekends. And so we provide that for people either for two weeks or for a month. Or for two months or three months so that they can really basically live their dream surfing lifestyle. Kim: We'll have links to Unleash Surf plus picks of that three and a half thousand year surfboard in our show notes. But Phil I reckon it's time for travel news. Phil: Alright here it is. A severe drought in South Africa has created a doomsday scenario with Capetown expected to run out of water in April. Taps will be turned off and people will have to collect their allocation of fifty gallon, oh sorry fifty liters. That's thirteen gallons per person per day from Government controlled distribution points. City officials are warning that the place could descend into Anarchy. They're seriously planning for the military to take over the streets. It could be ugly. So lets cross our fingers and hope for rain. By the way the average American uses eighty to one hundred gallons a day. So they're gonna be down to half of your usual allocation. Kim: Wow what else is happening? Phil: A group of Western travelers have been arrested and face a year in jail in Cambodia for dancing pornographically at a night club in San Reap. This happened at a popular pool party event called "Let's get wet." This is the best bit, police arrived around four p.m. It's not even midnight. Kim:That's not even midnight. Phil:Good work. Police arrived about four p.m. and started rounding people up. Then there are reports their authorities have been targeting ex-pats wearing bikinis in public and attending pub crawls. I'm pretty sure I'd get arrested if I was wearing a bikini in public. Kim:I reckon you would definitely. But you call an event "Let's get wet" and what do you know the extent of the dancing? Phil: I have seen some photographs. They were- Kim:[crosstalk 00:17:48] Phil: Yeah no they're all fully clothed. They're all still clothed but they are doing simulated sex. Okay now no one would argue that a guide dog is allowed on a flight. I hope not anyway. But the definition of a service animal is being stretched in the U.S. so that several airlines have tightened up the rules. Now what's prompted this you might ask Kim. Kim: What's prompted it? Phil: How about the "Large Mixed Breed Dog" that attacked a passenger leaving facial scars. Or the brown Pig, the companion animal on a plane that defecated in the aisle. Or the emotional support animal that was refused boarding recently, which was a peacock. Not the little brown innocuous Pea Hen, the Peacock, the one with massive spreading tail. Kim: You can't make this stuff up. Phil: As a companion animal on a plane. No they're cracking down on that- Kim: You've made this up, seriously. Phil: I wish. Kim: You take a pig on a plane and it does a poop. And a peacock. Phil:Surprise, surprise. The massive CES, consumer electronic show is held last month. And there were some pretty cool travel gadgets on show for the first time, including a mobile VPN and Wifi device. VPN, Virtual Private Network. It stops somebody snooping on your online activity. So that can be used while you're on some of the Wifi hotspots around the world, which are not necessarily always secure, so you can look after it, look after your own security. Look for the Wi-Dot stream Wi Stream Device. The Smithsonian magazine has listed ten anniversaries worth traveling for in 2018. Despite the awful grammar of that headline, we all love a flimsy excuse to travel don't we? So do any of these whet your appetite? The founding of New Orleans 300 years ago. Or you can go to Venice to celebrate the birth of the Renaissance painter, Ditorito 500 years ago. How about North Carolina, where in 1718 the British navy attacked and sank the Sloop Adventure, killing the pirate Blackbeard. And how about going to Howarth near Bradford in the north of England where they're celebrating the birth of Emily Bronte two hundred years ago. Wuthering Heights, her most famous novel of course. And the Christmas Carol Silent Night was performed for the first time 200 years ago near Salzburg in Austria. Kim:So there are ten anniversaries worth traveling for. Phil:Some of the ten, the other ones were just too boring. Kim: Alright thanks for that. Phil the Inca trail is being over run and there have to be some worthwhile tricks in the area that are an alternative. This guy apparently knows them. Now I'm hoping that I pronounce your first name correctly, it's Ephrian? Ephie: Ephrian Morales Phil:I knew we'd get it right. Kim:Us Australians are so bad at putting the, just that little twist to make everything sound sexy. Ephie:Ephie, you can call me Ephie, will be easy. But my name is Ephrian Bardies. Kim:Okay so it's true the Inca Trail is getting overrun Ephie? Ephie:Actually yes, there is 500 people a day starting almost altogether. There are some ways to [inaudible 00:20:56] in, but most of the people they like to do the Inca trail in four days. So all of them start together, they camp in one place altogether. They walk almost altogether. Of course the landscape is amazing, the biology, nature in that area is amazing but after four days hiking with many people it's like you were not really in the place that you were thinking you would be. We as a guide and myself as a guide, we are upset about it and we are trying to find some type of solution for this, or perhaps look at for options or alternatives. Phil: Well this is what we wanted to talk to you about because I had heard about Choquequirao, which is very similar to Machu Picchu and not that far away, is that right? Ephie: Choquequirao is very well known as the sacred sister of Machu Picchu. It was abandoned for quite a long time, the Government doesn't put attention much in that place. But recently the mayor from the different communities around, they are trying to talk and restore the area with the help of the Government. [inaudible 00:22:08] was also helping there. They are trying to build a cable car but it still is in project. But the hike is amazing, the sight is unbelievable place with a lot of [inaudible 00:22:19]. With amazing platforms, houses, temples, waterfalls. I really like more that place than Machu Picchu. Much is amazing, the land, the surrounding the mountains of course it's one of the new seven wonders. But it's the only place where I have seen a Condor, like three meters right in front of me. Right at the point of Choquequirao, right at the platform. Where else in the world you're gonna see the Condor three meters right in front of you? Phil: No absolutely. Kim: Not sure if I want to see the Condor three meters in front of me. So Ephie tell us then about some of those other worthwhile treks in the area that ideally have some of those amazing ruins at the end like Machu Picchu? Ephie: You can go to Choquequirao then you can connect to Vil Cabamba through Vitcos. Vil Cabamba was the last shelter, the last capital of the Inca empire. Fans were here in 1533. Phil: Can I just ask you about Choquequirao again. Kim: You just wanted to say it. Phil: I just wanted to say the word because I think I've got it right. So because ... I mean you're going up and down a fair height a few times there. So how many people, you say you've got 7,000 today at Machu Picchu. How many people are you getting at Choquequirao? Ephie: Okay I was there so many times and sometimes I was there along with my group. Kim: Wow. Ephie: Okay I found sometimes a couple of groups. Sometimes you can see fifty people. Sometimes sixty, but I don't think so more than that. I haven't seen never ever in that area more than sixty people in a day. Phil: Can I ask you two more questions alright? Just two more. One of them is the Inca trail to Machu Picchu. Some people do a two/three day trek. How fast can you do it? What's the fastest you've ever done it? Ephie: Okay. You really wanna hear that? Phil: Yes. Ephie:Okay the first time, the four days Inca trail, you could now do in three days. Phil: Four days. Ephie:The rules are, you buy your tickets for four days or for five days. But the fastest I did, the first time was six hours with a runner from Scotland. The second time I did it was in three hours and forty fives minutes. Kim:Oh come on. Ephie: Sorry, sorry. Four hours and twenty minutes. But the record is three hours and forty fives minutes by professional runners. Phil: My final question for you Ephie- Ephie: No problem. Ask as much as you want. Phil:Machu Picchu, Choquequirao have you got another one? Is there another one you're not telling us about? Ephie: Vilcabamba. It's getting quite popular. On the way you can see a mountain called Veronica 5,700 meters in front of you, snow capped. You arrive to 4,300 meters, the highest point all the way down to the cloud forest to enjoy coffee, tea, chocolates, banana, mango, orange, mandarins. All the foods, pineapple, papayas, all the way down to the jungle where we produce Coca leaf as well. We produce all the fruits we have in Cusco come from that area. You see the landscapes also amazing. The rivers, you can do rocking, biking, lots of activities. Then you go to Vilcabamba, the last capital of the Inca Empire, the last shelter of the Inca Empire where the last Incan was killed. In a day you can see no one or somebody but not many groups, less than Choquequirao. Then we have another called Lares. Lares is an amazing hike, people who still speak Quechua out native language, Inca language. Who still live over 4,000 meters producing potatoes, Limas and Alpacas up in the mountains. Worked in extreme temperatures wearing typical clothes living without any money in the area. But they still do the sharing, "Give me corn, I'll give you potatoes. You give me this I'll give you that." The landscape, the mountains. And they wear typical clothes made by them, textiles. Beautiful, beautiful, the trek is called Lares. Kim: Thanks Ephie and if you would like him to be your guide trekking through Peru, we will show you where you can get ahold of him in our show notes.  Now we love having people visit the World Nomad and this time we have Haymitch Black about vaccinations for South America. But Phil you've got a question you want to kick off with? Phil: I do Dr. Hamish Black. I've got a very interesting question for you but before we do that, can we explain ... He knows what it is. He's already laughing. Can you explain what it is you do at World Nomads. You're a part of the emergency assistance team correct? Hamish Black: Yes Phil, yeah lovely to be here. My role here is to manage the risk on the, I'd guess you'd say not so much the proactive side, the reactive side. So when people do get in trouble and they call us at World Nomads, my role is to make sure the clinical risk in particular is being looked after. So we have callers who do need to be moved by our ambulance or that need to come home for some reason. Or they're not sure whether they're getting appropriate care and we have to try and make sure that clinical risk is being managed appropriately. And sometimes it is quite dramatic, people do have to be moved by our ambulances and put on planes and brought home. But often it's just making sure they get the appropriate provider in their location. Phil: I was in Peru a couple of years ago and I did go down into the Amazon Basin and along that Madre De Dios river, and we were all told that you can't take a leak into the river. You can't urinate into the river, because there's a parasite that will swim up your urine stream. True or False Doctor Black? Hamish Black: Yeah Phil, you- Kim:An idiot. Hamish Black: It is probably an urban myth I think. Phil: Okay. Hamish Black:I mean you could imagine possibly if you're, while in the water that something could get in there. But again- Phil: You're not helping me. Now it sounds like- Haymitch Black: It's a myth. Phil: Alright. Peru in particular but South America in general do you need vaccinations before you go there? Hamish Black: Look the answer for anywhere is yes. The sensible advice is to get your health looked at before you travel. There are people who do need to get vaccinated depending on what you're doing, where you're traveling of course. I mean if you're gonna travel at all, you need to be vaccinated with your prime immunization course as recommended by the Government. That's the first thing. And there are people who haven't had that done. Kim: Is there anything specific then to South America or Peru? Hamish Black: Well I guess Yellow Fever is the one that people think about with Africa and South America. And there are part of Peru that it's recommended that you are immunized for. I guess most people are just gonna go to Cusco and Machu Picchu and possibly Lima. And that part of the world you don't need Yellow Fever. And if you are gonna get out of those areas in general, you probably do need Yellow Fever. Phil: And Yellow Fever, that's kind of a tropical disease so we're talking about in the Amazon Basin, places like Manaus and Puerto Maldonado, I did that one just for Kim. That was my Spanish accent, terrible. Hamish Black: Well I'm impressed, I'm impressed Phil. Because you've been there. Most of Peru in the non altitude regions have Yellow Fever. Phil:Can we talk about Mosquitoes? Malaria and Dengue Fever. Malaria first of all. Hamish Black: I would be having a conversation with a travel doctor if you're gonna be away for a period of time and you're risk of getting bitten my mosquitoes. Again if you're in urban areas than your risk is pretty low. Phil: Dengue fever though. I know we get a lot of people who contract Dengue fever, not just from South America but from all over the world as well. You have a lot of Dengue fever cases coming up through EA? Hamish Black: Yeah we do actually but you know it tends to be a little bit seasonal. You get little outbreaks. That's another one, there's no vaccination for it. There's nothing you can do to prevent it except not get bitten. Phil:Hamish just getting back to your role as medical director alright? Now often you're dealing with people who've called you and they're in a bad way and they're on the other side of the world. How difficult is that for you to be able to assess what's going on from the other side of the world? Hamish Black: Well we rely on two things. First of all our conversation with the person who calls us and that's best done by our medical team. So that's myself and there's two other doctors and four nurses here. And correlate that with the medical information we get from the hospital. If we're gonna do something about that situation, if we really think someone needs an upgrade in their care if they're concerned about their level of care they're receiving then we'll generally talk to the treating doctor about moving them. Phil: If you have a health concern while you're traveling, you're a World Nomad's customer can they ring you up and just get a bit of advice? Hamish Black:Yes and no. I mean I guess it's difficult for us to provide the sort of advice most people really want, which is therapeutic advice. But we do wanna know what's going on, because we don't want you to get sick while you're traveling. Or if you are, we want you to get well and then travel on I guess. Phil:So if something does swim upstream into my Willie I should call you anyway and that's what you're saying? Hamish Black: I'll leave that with you to sort out. Phil: Actually I did hear, I mean this is part of an urban myth I'm sure. That men in the Amazon when they do go swimming wear a tourniquet over their penis, is that right? To stop this from happening? Kim:I wish someone had told Phil to do that. Hamish Black: It has to be really tight as well apparently Phil. Kim: Well thanks for joining us in the studio. Hamish Black: Yeah pleasure, it was lovely to be here. Kim:Well we've just about finished episode nine of the World Nomad's podcast. But everyone has been waiting for the answer to your quiz question Phil. Phil:Yeah the capital is Lima but the second largest city is Arequipa with a population of 850,000 people which is not that many really. Peru, big country. Like Lima is only a million and a bit. So there's no sort of like mega metropolises like you have like Mexico City. So it's a really traveler friendly kind of country to go to. Kim: Yeah and after this podcast I'm putting Peru on the list of places- Phil: It's just around the world ticket really. Kim: It is, that wraps up episode nine. Subscribe, rate, share on iTunes, Google play, Stitcher and now we're also on iHeartRadio. How cool is that? Phil: Yes fantastic. Kim: Contact us by emailing podcast@worldnomads.com Next episode, Phil where are we going to? Phil: We're going to the U.S. of A Opener: The World Nomads Podcast. Explore your boundaries.   </div> </div> </div>World Nomads 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/key-phrases-for-travelers-to-peruEnglish isn't widely spoken outside the tourist areas of Peru, so these Spanish words and phrases might come in handy.2018-01-25T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/key-phrases-for-travelers-to-peruhttps://www.worldnomads.comSpanish is the primary and official language of Peru, followed by Quechua, Aymara, and other indigenous languages. English is not commonly spoken outside of tourist areas. Luckily, Peruvian Spanish is one of the clearest and most enunciated Spanish accents, making it easier for Spanish-language beginners to understand. Here are some <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/guides/spanish-travel-phrasebook">key Spanish words and phrases</a> to know before your trip to Peru. <ul> <li><a href="#greetings"> Introductions and greetings </a></li> <li><a href="#travel"> Everyday travel phrases </a></li> <li><a href="#directions"> Basic firections </a></li> <li><a href="#shopping"> Ordering and dhopping </a></li> <li><a href="#medical"> Medical and rmergencies </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="greetings">Introductions and greetings</h2> Hello: Hola My name is…: Me llamo... How are you?: ¿Cómo estás? Nice to meet you: Mucho gusto Good morning: Buenos días Good afternoon: Buenas tardes Good night: Buenas noches <h2 id="travel">Everyday travel phrases</h2> Do you speak English?: ¿Habla Inglés? I don’t speak Spanish: No hablo Español Can I take your picture?: ¿Le puedo tomar una foto? Can you take my picture?: ¿Me puedes tomar una foto? Please: Por favor Excuse me: Disculpe Thank you: Gracias You’re welcome: De nada <h2 id="directions">Basic directions</h2> I am lost: Estoy perdido/a To the right: A la derecha To the left: A la izquierda Stop (verb): Pare Stop (noun): Parada Continue: Sigue Where is the bathroom?: ¿Donde esta el baño? <h2 id="shopping">Ordering and shopping</h2> I would like to order…: Me gustaría pedir… How much does this cost?: ¿Cuánto cuesta esto? The bill, please: La cuenta, por favor <h2 id="medical">Medical and emergencies</h2> Help me!: ¡Socorro! I need a doctor: Necesito un doctor I have altitude sickness: Tengo soroche I need a pharmacy: Necesito una farmacia Where is the tourism police?: ¿Dónde está la oficina de la Policía de Turismo? I have an emergency: Tengo una emergenciaiStock/hadynyah 0471279205 iStock Peruvian woman in national clothing, Chivay, Peru

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/top-experiences-at-lake-titicacaThis sparkling lake at the top of the world is rich with unique cultures and customs. Learn more about the towns and areas to visit.2025-12-02T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/top-experiences-at-lake-titicacahttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#uros"> Uros </a></li> <li><a href="#amantani"> Amantaní </a></li> <li><a href="#Taquile"> Taquile </a></li> <li><a href="#Sillustani"> Sillustani </a></li> <li><a href="#festivals"> Festivals in Puno </a></li> </ul> Spanning the borders of Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest navigable lake at 12,507ft (3,812m). The region is famous for its islands and crystal-clear waters as well as its festivals and archaeological sites. <h2 id="uros">Uros</h2> The Uros Islands are one of the highlights of Lake Titicaca, about an hour’s boat ride from Puno. These floating islands are built and maintained from totora reeds, which also form homes, boats, and other traditional structures. The islands are still home to Uros communities, who continue their traditional lifestyle, speak Aymara, Quechua, and Spanish, and sell brightly colored handicrafts to visitors. It can feel touristy there, but it's easy to imagine how life was like for these people centuries before. Tours usually last 2–3 hours, with roughly $10–$25 USD per person, depending on the operator and inclusions. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/Titicaca-Uros-reed-boats.jpg" /><figcaption>Boats made from reeds, Uros Islands. Photo credit: Ellen Hall</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="amantani">Amantaní</h2> Amantani is a tranquil island on Lake Titicaca, usually visited as part of a two‑day boat tour from Puno that also includes a stop at the Uros Floating Islands and often Taquile Island. Boats from Puno typically take several hours on open water, with stops along the way, before reaching Amantani’s quiet shores. From the island you can enjoy sweeping views of the deep blue lake and distant snow‑capped peaks of the Andes and Bolivia on clear days. The landscape is marked by rustic stone and adobe homes, agricultural terraces, and fields of quinoa and other crops — a striking high‑altitude environment unlike anywhere else in the world. Life on Amantani moves at a gentle pace. Local families host visitors in simple homestays, and many residents are warm and welcoming, though interactions may be quiet and respectful as people maintain their traditional way of life. There aren't necessarily many tourist attractions, but that’s part of the island’s appeal: it’s a place to slow down, soak up the scenery, and experience daily life in a close‑knit community. Most travelers visit Amantani on an overnight tour, spending a night with a local family. These tours usually start in Puno, include visits to Uros and Taquile, and cost around S/. 120 (~US $35–40) or more depending on the operator and inclusions. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/Titicaca-Amatani.jpg" /><figcaption>Terraced fields on Amantaní. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="Taquile">Taquile</h2> About 2.5–3 hours by boat from Puno, often after a stop at the Uros Floating Islands, Taquile Island is a highlight of Lake Titicaca. The journey across the lake takes you to an island community perched high above the water, with spectacular views of the lake and distant Andean peaks. Taquile is famous for its textile traditions, recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Locals produce intricate knitted and woven items, including hats, belts, and other textiles. The colours and styles of traditional clothing carry cultural and social meanings that reflect age and community roles. Reaching the island’s main village usually involves a steep uphill walk from the dock, so pace yourself, especially at this high altitude. Many tours allow a day visit to Taquile or can include an overnight homestay with a local family, giving you time to explore village life, learn about weaving, and enjoy the peaceful highland scenery. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/Titicaca-from-Taquile.jpg" /><figcaption>View of the lake from Taquile. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="Sillustani">Sillustani</h2> About 45 minutes northwest of Puno, Sillustani sits on the shores of Lake Umayo and is famous for its pre-Inca stone funerary towers (chullpas). Rising dramatically from the highland landscape, these cylindrical towers set against the lake and rolling countryside create a mysterious and photogenic scene. The surrounding area is peaceful, with sweeping views that make it a favorite for photographers and history enthusiasts alike. Most visitors take a half-day tour from Puno (around S/. 25–60 / US$7–18), though budget travelers can use shared minibuses or colectivos, sometimes requiring short walks or additional rides. There also is a small entrance fee. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/Titicaca-Umayo-Lagoon.jpg" /><figcaption>Umayo Lagoon, near Sillustani. Photo credit: Ellen Hall</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="festivals">Festivals in Puno</h2> Exploring Lake Titicaca isn’t just about touring the islands – Puno is well-known for being one of the most vibrant towns of Peru. Almost every month a festival or other celebration takes over the streets. The best-known of them all is the Virgen de la Candelaria, a Catholic festival which has been given Intangible Cultural Heritage status by UNESCO. This is when people dance the amazing and <g class="gr_ gr_78 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Style multiReplace" id="78" data-gr-id="78">energetic </g><g class="gr_ gr_78 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_disable_anim_appear Style multiReplace" id="78" data-gr-id="78"> <g class="gr_ gr_70 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling" id="70" data-gr-id="70">diablada</g></g> puneña, which features angels, demons, and a sacred condor, all in a highly colorful and extravagant fashion, including huge masks and shiny costumes. iStock/hadynyah 0471890831 iStock Men knitting on Taquile Island, Lake Titicaca, Peru

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/exploring-the-southern-coast-of-peruScorched sand dunes, ancient geoglyphs, and Pisco galore make this a uniquely unmissable part of Peru. Our insider Steph has the scoop.2018-01-24T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/exploring-the-southern-coast-of-peruhttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#paracas"> Wildlife Along the Paracas Coastline</a></li> <li><a href="#ica"> Bodegas and Sandboards in Ica and Huacachina </a></li> <li><a href="#nazca"> The Nazca Lines: Famous Pre-Colombian Geoglyphs </a></li> <li><a href="#lunahuana"> High-adrenaline Adventures and Criollo Culture in Lunahuaná and Chincha </a></li> </ul> The line of dusty towns along Peru’s southern coast might not look much upon <g class="gr_ gr_84 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="84" data-gr-id="84">first</g> inspection, but be prepared for a region filled with everything from hidden desert oases to rustic Pisco bodegas, and enough adventure activities to satisfy even the most adrenaline-fueled traveler. <h2 id="paracas">Wildlife Along the Paracas Coastline</h2> Straight down the Pan American Highway from Lima, the town of Pisco doesn’t offer much of interest, so it’s no wonder that most bypass it for neighboring Paracas. It’s from here that two-hour <g class="gr_ gr_67 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del" id="67" data-gr-id="67">speed boats</g> (S/. 50, or <g class="gr_ gr_82 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="82" data-gr-id="82">US</g> $15.30) skim across the waves to Islas Ballestas. Dubbed the “Poor Man’s Galapagos”, these rocky islands are a riot of toddling Humboldt penguins, dozing sea lions, colonies of rare blue-footed boobies and lots of stinky guano. As the boats cruise around the rocks, keep an eye on the water, too: between August and October, you might spot Humpback whales. Across the bay, the barren dunes of Reserva Nacional Paracas are similarly remarkable for wildlife: over 200 bird species, including Chilean flamingos, have been sighted. The best viewing is at dawn at the bay outside the museum, located 1.5mi (2.5km) from the main entrance. There are facilities for camping here, but check in with the park ranger for safety updates, as robberies have been known in the reserve. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/south-Humboldt-penguins.jpg" /><figcaption>Humboldt penguins. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="ica">Bodegas and Sandboards in Ica and Huacachina</h2> Home to Peru’s national spirit, Ica’s a great place to spend an afternoon learning about and tasting the local tipple. 20 minutes away by taxi, Hacienda Bodega <g class="gr_ gr_68 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="68" data-gr-id="68">Tacama</g>, the oldest vineyard and Pisco producer in South America, has tours to suit everyone, from wine aficionado to Pisco virgin. For a more active adventure, it’s a ten-minute taxi journey from Ica to the mirage-like town of Huacachina. A disorientating array of hostels and restaurants have sprung up around a small lagoon wedged between sand dunes. While it’s less of an oasis of calm than previously, it remains Peru’s ultimate sandboarding destination. Tours (S/. 50 or <g class="gr_ gr_69 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="69" data-gr-id="69">US</g> $15.30 for two hours) strap you into a 4x4 dune buggy, which speeds across the desert before letting you out to skim down the dunes on a board. Sand isn’t soft like snow, so start slowly and don’t be cocky – you’ll save yourself some painful bruises. If you’re happier on two feet, stretch your legs with a sweaty 20-minute climb to the dune above the town; it’s the place to watch the otherworldly landscape disappearing into the hazy dusk at sunset, or the spray of sand as the pros shred down the slope. Accommodation for all price ranges is available, but as the lagoon isn’t ideal for swimming, consider splurging on a place with a pool; it gets fiendishly hot here during the day. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/south-Huacachina.jpg" /><figcaption>Huacachina. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="nazca">The Nazca Lines: Famous Pre-Colombian Geoglyphs</h2> One of Peru’s most recognizable ancient landmarks, the tantalizingly mysterious, UNESCO World Heritage Nazca lines comprise 300 geometric shapes carved into the desert by a long-vanished culture – and no one really knows why. Skip the viewpoint 12.5 mi (20km) north of Nazca – the lines are far better seen from the air. 30-minute, five-seater airplane trips (S/. 261 or <g class="gr_ gr_80 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="80" data-gr-id="80">US</g> $80) take you over 13 shapes, including the hummingbird and a condor. Visibility is better and turbulence less likely before around <g class="gr_ gr_81 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Style multiReplace" id="81" data-gr-id="81">10:30am</g>, when the haze starts to obscure the lines. Use <a href="/travel-safety/south-america/peru/nasca-lines-of-peru-safety-tips-for-choosing-your-flight">these suggestions</a> for booking with a reputable airline in Nazca, as it’s not worth risking your life to save a few soles. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/south-flight-Nazca-Lines.jpg" /><figcaption>Flight over the Nazca lines. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="lunahuana">High-adrenaline Adventures and Criollo Culture in Lunahuaná and Chincha</h2> Action-packed Lunahuaná is a newcomer on Peru’s tourist scene. This slice of green in the barren dust of the desert runs parallel to the ribbon-like Río Cañete. Here <g class="gr_ gr_63 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del" id="63" data-gr-id="63">in</g> one of the top playgrounds for <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/kayaking-and-rafting">white-water rafting</a> in the whole continent, expect everything from Class III to V rapids, and to pay S/. 100 (<g class="gr_ gr_77 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="77" data-gr-id="77">US</g> $30.60) for a day’s tour. Horse-riding trips (S/. 25 or <g class="gr_ gr_78 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="78" data-gr-id="78">US</g> $7.65) and canopy zip lines (S/. 40 or <g class="gr_ gr_79 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="79" data-gr-id="79">US</g> $12.25) are also on offer in the valley. A bit further south along the main highway, Chincha has a unique heritage: it’s home to the descendants of black slaves brought from Africa by the Spanish. For the best insight into their criollo culture, visit during the Verano Negro festival in February or Fiesta de las Danzas Negras in November, when the town erupts into a chaotic whirl of dancing, music <g class="gr_ gr_66 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="66" data-gr-id="66">and</g> food showcasing the region’s dual Peruvian and Afro heritage. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/south-chincha.jpg" /><figcaption>Dancers, Asociación Cultural Afro Chincha. Photo credit: Pixiquin via Creative Commons.</figcaption></figure> Want to know more about Peru? Check out our <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/south-america/peru/the-world-nomads-podcast-episode-9-peru">podcast</a>. We chat about alternative treks to Machu Picchu, how Peru is the original home of surfing, and look at what vaccinations do you need when traveling to South America.iStock/xeni4ka 0827817952 iStock Cathedral Rock Formation, Peruvian Coastline, Rock formations at the coast, Paracas National Reserve, Paracas, Ica Region, Peru

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/guide-to-arequipa-and-colca-canyonWhether you’re a foodie, a thrill seeker, or a culture hound, our insider Caroline steers you to the best of the Southern Sierra.2018-01-23T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/guide-to-arequipa-and-colca-canyonhttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#Arequipa"> Arequipa </a></li> <li><a href="#colca"> Colca Canyon </a></li> <li><a href="#Cahatuasi"> Cahatuasi Canyon </a></li> <li><a href="#Chivay"> Chivay and the Canyon Villages </a></li> <li><a href="#Paucarpata"> Paucarpata and Sabandia </a></li> </ul> The Colca Valley is where Peru’s diversity of landscapes really puts on a show – a mosaic of snowcapped peaks, terraced slopes, desolate steppe, and parched desert. <h2 id="Arequipa">Arequipa</h2> Standing at 7,710ft (2,350m) and circled by three snow-covered volcanoes, Peru’s second city, Arequipa, provides the base for exploration, The city’s historic center is a confection of gleaming baroque buildings, justly anointed with UNESCO World Heritage status. Arequipa’s undisputed cultural highlight, the Monasterio/Convento de Santa Catalina, was founded in 1579 as a holy retreat for the daughters of gilded Spanish families. <g class="gr_ gr_101 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling multiReplace" id="101" data-gr-id="101">Its</g> serene courtyards. cloisters and gardens reveal how – despite their oath to poverty and chastity – the nuns had a pretty good gig with private kitchens, art collections, servants, and luxuriously appointed “cells.” When it comes to gastronomic flair, Arequipa gives Lima a run for its money. North of the Plaza de Armas, Calles de Santa Catalina and San Francisco are a fine place to get acquainted with regional Arequipeño culinary traditions. Perennial favorites are <a href="http://www.zigzagrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Zig Zag</a>, which sports a staircase built by Gustave Eiffel, and <a href="https://www.salamanto.com" target="_blank"><g class="gr_ gr_85 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="85" data-gr-id="85">Salamento</g></a>, famed for its inventive iterations of classic Peruvian dishes. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/Convento-de-Santa-Catalina.jpg" /><figcaption>Convento de Santa Catalina. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="colca">Colca Canyon</h2> The Cañón del Colca defies superlatives. Plunging to 11,150 ft (3,399m) – that’s twice as deep as the Grand Canyon – Colca Canyon forms part of a 62mi (100km) volcanic mountain range dominated by awe-inspiring Mount Coropuna. The breathtaking 95mi (153km) drive from Arequipa to Chivay, Colca Canyon’s main village, orbits the city’s two sentinel volcanoes, El Misti and Chachani. Adventure travelers test their mettle with multi-day hiking trips and mountaineering expeditions that venture deep into the canyon. There’s also excellent river rafting, mountain biking, and a zip line which plummets almost 20,000ft (6,096m) between the canyon walls in a simulation of the flight of an Andean Condor. The actual flight of these impressively large birds – the region’s poster children – can be viewed at the Cruz del Cóndor lookout. Most tour group itineraries include a stop. For cultural gratification, visit Colca Canyon’s traditional villages, pre-Incan ruins, natural hot springs, and ancient terraces. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/Cruz-del-Condor-lookout.jpg" /><figcaption>Cruz del Condor lookout. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="Cahatuasi">Cahatuasi Canyon</h2> The crown for "deepest canyon in the world" goes to Cahatuasi, at the northwest corner of the Arequipa department. Cahatuasi is the preserve of experienced hikers, climbers, and rafters due to its inaccessibility and <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/kayaking-and-rafting">intense Class V rapids</a>. If you’re planning to hit Cahatuasi, it’s worth a short detour to the town of <g class="gr_ gr_88 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="88" data-gr-id="88">Corire</g>, and the Toro <g class="gr_ gr_89 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="89" data-gr-id="89">Myerto</g> petroglyphs, a series of ancient cave paintings that date to between 500 and 1,300 BC. Most travelers to Cahatuasi sign up for organized excursions from Arequipa to Chivay, the canyon’s main village. There’s no need to plan ahead – Arequipa’s bevy of outfitters offer daily departures ranging from day trips to multi-day treks. A basic two-day/one night trip starts from S/. 65 (<g class="gr_ gr_103 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="103" data-gr-id="103">US</g> $20). For more luxurious lodgings with bells and whistles, plan to spend upwards of S/. 470 (<g class="gr_ gr_104 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="104" data-gr-id="104">US</g> $145) for two days/one night, or S/. 1,618 (<g class="gr_ gr_105 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="105" data-gr-id="105">US</g> $500) and above for four nights. Colectivos (minivans) shuttle independent travelers from Arequipa to the canyon’s villages, where experienced hikers can go it alone without a guide. Note that to enter the canyon all visitors must purchase a Boleto Turistico, or Tourist Ticket, for S/. 91 (US$28). <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/Cotahuasi-Canyon.jpg" /><figcaption>Cotahuasi Canyon. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="Chivay">Chivay and the Canyon Villages</h2> The Colca Valley’s villages unfurl along the south and north banks of the canyon, linked by tricky terrain that makes relatively short distances a challenging endeavor. The south bank sees the most tourist traffic, centered on the dusty town of Chivay, which clings to its Quechua traditions while thoroughly embracing its status as the canyon’s main hub. With electricity still a recent addition, Chivay has a low-key vibe with a growing kernel of locally run hotels, inns, and restaurants. Though it’s just a functional stopover for most visitors, its lively mix of backpackers, travelers, and locals makes for an interesting short stay. Town life orbits around the market and main square, where colorfully attired Colca women ply their wares against a backdrop of snowy peaks and terraced hillsides. If you’re looking for accommodation that offers more character and comfort, it’s worth shelling out for a room at the rustic-chic lodges located between Chivay and Cabanaconde. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/local-woman-chivay.jpg" /><figcaption>A local woman in Chivay. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="Paucarpata">Paucarpata and Sabandia</h2> Within striking distance of Arequipa, the town of Paucarpata (4mi or 6.4km southeast) is an interesting foray into the countryside. Founded by the Spanish in the late 16th century, its gorgeous scenery, rich cultural traditions, and impossibly regular pre-Inca terraces can be explored on a combined day trip with Sabandia (another mile down the road). In Sabandia, renowned architect Luis Felipe Calle breathed new life into the region’s first stone mill, or <g class="gr_ gr_87 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="87" data-gr-id="87">molina</g>, which was built of volcanic stone in the early 17th century. When the restoration project wrapped up in 1973, the architect was so taken with his accomplishment that he bought the mill and turned it into a tourist attraction complete with informative tours (S/. 9.70 or <g class="gr_ gr_92 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="92" data-gr-id="92">US</g> $3), cheeky llamas and alpacas, a swimming pool, horseback rides, and hiking trails. You can take a taxi (S./ 32 or around <g class="gr_ gr_81 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="81" data-gr-id="81">US</g> $10 return trip) or <g class="gr_ gr_86 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling" id="86" data-gr-id="86">colectivo</g> (S/. 1.6 or <g class="gr_ gr_82 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="82" data-gr-id="82">US</g> $0.50 each way) to Paucarpata and then Sabandia from Arequipa, or just walk (around two hours). Want to know more about Peru? Check out our <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/south-america/peru/the-world-nomads-podcast-episode-9-peru">podcast</a>. We chat about alternative treks to Machu Picchu, how Peru is the original home of surfing, and look at what vaccinations do you need when traveling to South America.iStock/Onfokus 0157312138 iStock Man Backpacker Tourist Looking at the View, Canyon Del Colca

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/locals-guide-to-cuscoOur insider Marisa guides you through 48 action-packed hours in the famed former capital of the Inca empire.2018-01-22T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/locals-guide-to-cuscohttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#boleto-turistico"> Seeing the sights of Cusco with the Boleto Turistico</a></li> <li><a href="#plaza-de-armas"> Plaza de Armas in Cusco </a></li> <li><a href="#san-blas"> Cusco’s San Blas Neighborhood </a></li> <li><a href="#koricancha"> Koricancha and the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art </a></li> <li><a href="#sacsayhuaman"> Sacsayhuaman and other Inca treasures </a></li> <li><a href="#nightlife"> Dining and nightlife in Cusco </a></li> <li><a href="#day-trip"> Sacred Valley day trip </a></li> <li><a href="#where-to-stay"> Where to stay in Cusco </a></li> </ul> Cusco is full of visitors prepping for or returning from <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/getting-most-out-of-machu-picchu" target="_blank">Machu Picchu</a>, yet the international influence has integrated beautifully with the local lifestyle. With an abundance of excellent restaurants, awe-inspiring churches, breathtaking vistas and busy marketplaces, there’s always something to draw you back to Cusco – or keep you extending your stay. <h2 id="boleto-turistico">Seeing the sights of Cusco with the Boleto Turistico</h2> A Boleto Turistico (tourist ticket) is required to see most of the important sights in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. You can buy the full ticket, which includes 14 <g class="gr_ gr_78 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del" id="78" data-gr-id="78">sights</g> and is valid for 10 days, for S/. 130 (<g class="gr_ gr_99 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="99" data-gr-id="99">US</g> $40). Or you can buy tickets for three different circuits – Cusco museums, Cusco Inca sites, or Sacred Valley sites – for S/. 70 (US $21.60) each. These are valid for one to two days only. The Boletos can be purchased at the entrance to most of the sights, or at the COSITUC office in at Avenida Del Sol 103 in central Cusco. <h2 id="plaza-de-armas">Plaza de Armas in Cusco</h2> Start off at this vibrant square in the heart of the city. At its center is the statue of Inca ruler Pachacuti. Surrounding it you’ll find restaurants, shops <g class="gr_ gr_96 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="96" data-gr-id="96">and</g> La Catedral, a dramatic piece of architecture representing Spanish conquest. If you’re lucky, you’ll be in Cusco during one of the city’s many festivals and see parades around the Plaza. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/Corpus-Christi-Festival-Cusco.jpg" /><figcaption>Corpus Christi Festival, Cusco. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="san-blas">Cusco’s San Blas Neighborhood</h2> Next, it’s a (steep) uphill walk to the artisan neighborhood of San Blas for a stroll through the shops. Take a snapshot of the picturesque Iglesia San Blas, then stop at the San Pedro Market, a bustling, open-air food market. Grab empanadas or stop at Govinda’s food stall for spectacular vegan treats. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/Cusco-fruit-market.jpg" /><figcaption>Fruit market in Cusco. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="koricancha">Koricancha and the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art</h2> Head back down the hill to find the twelve-angled stone, which makes up part of the wall of the ancient Hatunrumiyoc Palace and is a prime example of the Inca’s remarkably precise dry-stone masonry. Then, head off to the Inca Sun Temple, Koricancha, which was once lined with sheets of gold. It was ransacked by the Spanish, who built a church atop the ruins, and the contrast is striking.   Fill your belly at Greens café, then it’s over to the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, a museum-lovers favorite that stretches across two floors of a Spanish-Colonial <g class="gr_ gr_76 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="76" data-gr-id="76">casona</g>. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/Cusco-Koricancha.jpg" /><figcaption>Koricancha. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="sacsayhuaman">Sacsayhuaman and other Inca treasures</h2> Hike up Pukamuqu mountain to say “hola” to Cristo Blanco, then continue on to Sacsayhuaman, an ancient fortress with excellent views of Cusco less than an hour’s walk from the city. Q’enqo, the site of Inca ritual sacrifice, is worth a stop as well. But the real gem of your adventure is the Cusco Planetarium. Astronomy was essential to Incan life, and this family-owned planetarium will teach you all you need to know, complete with stunning views of the stars. (<a href="https://www.peruforless.com/blog/inca-astronomy/">Learn more about Incan astronomy here</a>.) Back in town, stop at the Centro de Textiles Tradicionales. This nonprofit organization is preserving traditional weaving techniques and helping local communities in the process. <h2 id="nightlife">Dining and nightlife in Cusco</h2> For dinner, it’s Morena’s for incredible, well-priced Peruvian food, or try Papacho’s, the only gourmet burger joint in Cusco, by famed Peruvian chef Gaston Acurio. Then it’s time to party, and Cusco is rife with options. Pepe Zeta is a no-frills hangout serving liter beers and Andean music, or try Mama Africa, the pop-reggaeton club that’s the spot for young travelers. For laid-back vibes, hit Los Perros, a cafe that turns jazz lounge at night. <h2 id="day-trip">Sacred Valley day trip</h2> The next morning, head out early to see the <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/best-day-trips-from-cusco" target="_blank">Sacred Valley.</a> Your Boleto Turistico will get you into the Moray agricultural amphitheater and the Pisac and Ollantaytambo archaeological sites. Back in Cusco, grab a healthy bite at Organika. Then it’s off to the ChocoMuseo for a chocolate making lesson, followed by a yoga class at Healing House to unwind before your trek to Machu Picchu or <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/responsible-tourism-peru" target="_blank">another worthwhile site.</a> <h2 id="where-to-stay">Where to stay in Cusco</h2> Milhouse Hostel is a popular spot with comfy beds, large lockers, <g class="gr_ gr_90 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="90" data-gr-id="90">and</g> <g class="gr_ gr_89 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins doubleReplace replaceWithoutSep" id="89" data-gr-id="89">free</g> luggage storage during your hike. Casa San Blas Boutique <g class="gr_ gr_75 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="75" data-gr-id="75">hotel</g> is a quaint boutique offering in a renovated 17th-century house with city-view balconies. iStock/Meinzahn 0482787108 iStock Cuzco,Peru - January 16, 2015: Plaza de armas in sunset with local people. It is a centre point of Cusco city, Cusco, Peru.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/guide-to-the-peruvian-amazonPeru's Amazon rainforest offers stunning biodiversity and an enormous range of adventures. Here’s how to navigate your choices.2018-01-22T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/guide-to-the-peruvian-amazonhttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#madre-de-dios"> Madre de Dios and the Northern Selva </a></li> <li><a href="#manu"> Manu National Park </a></li> <li><a href="#chanchamayo"> Chanchamayo and the Central Selva </a></li> <li><a href="#iquitos"> Iquitos and the Northern Selva </a></li> <li><a href="#when-to-visit"> When to visit the Peruvian Amazon </a></li> <li><a href="#responsible"> Responsible tourism in the Amazon jungle </a></li> </ul> Covering more than half of Peru, the Peruvian Amazon can be roughly divided into three different areas; the southern, central, and northern selva (jungle). <h2 id="madre-de-dios">Madre de Dios and the Northern Selva</h2> <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/locals-guide-to-cusco" target="_blank">Cusco</a> is a good base to begin explorations of the southern selva, with air and road links to Puerto Maldonado, a remote yet bustling frontier town. This is the capital of the Madre de Dios region, and most visitors come here just to enter the jungle and stay in a lodge. Sadly, logging and Illegal gold mining along the Madre de Dios river have devastated huge swathes of the forest, but there are still plenty of spectacular adventures to be had here, and parts of the Amazon in Madre de Dios are much less frequented than those around Iquitos.   Also within easy reach of Puerto Maldonado are several indigenous tribes living in relative isolation. Some jungle tours will include at least a brief visit to one of their villages. A few guidelines: please show respect to indigenous people and their way of life, <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/how-to-take-photos-responsibly">ask before taking photos</a>, don’t hand out sweets, as there is no dental care here, and be kind at all times – a smile goes a long way towards defusing most situations. In the Reserva Nacional Tambopata you can visit incredibly biodiverse rainforest, easily reachable from many of the lodges around Puerto Maldonado. Don’t miss the wild macaw clay licks, which attract huge numbers of these colorful parrots and other animals, and the hike to Sandoval Lake. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/amazon-macaws-madre-de-dios.jpg" alt="Macaws at a clay lick in the Peruvian rainforest." /><figcaption>Macaws at a clay lick, Madre de Dios region. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="manu">Manu National Park </h2> This UNESCO-certified park in the Madre de Dios region is one of South America’s best locations to observe tropical wildlife. The park covers an area of almost 7,722 mi2 (20,000 km2), and has some of the greatest biodiversity on the planet, with a dizzying array of wildlife. Trips to the reserved zone deep inside the protected area are more expensive, but you have a much better chance to view rare wildlife. Cheaper tours are available in the “cultural zone.” which still have good wildlife watching and are ideal for budget travelers. Costs vary but range from S/. 320-965 (US $100-$300) per day, for itineraries from four to nine days. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/oxbow-lake-manu-national-park.jpg" alt="Cruising on an oxbow lake in Manu National Park, Peru." /><figcaption>Cruising on an oxbow lake in Manu National Park. Photo credit: Ellen Hall</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="chanchamayo">Chanchamayo and the Central Selva</h2> The Chanchamayo Valley is the closest jungle area to <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/locals-guide-to-lima" target="_blank">Lima</a>, and marks the beginning of the Central Selva. The region has good road links, and plenty of protected areas for birdwatching. The town of La Merced has a thriving Saturday market – buying the colorful handicrafts here is a great way to support the locals. The nearby town of Satipo has a daily market, although it’s better on the weekends. Most backpackers start their jungle expeditions from either La Merced or Satipo. <h3>Oxapampa and Pozuzo</h3> Further north, Oxapampa is a pleasant, clean town on the banks of the river Chontabamba, with another wonderful market. Nearby Pozuzo is a bizarre mix of Austrian, German and Peruvian culture, following an agreement between Germany and Peru to establish German settlements deep in the rainforest in the mid-19th century. Wooden chalets, German speakers and even lederhosen (on special occasions) are not what you might expect in the Amazon, making Pozuzo a unique Amazon experience – bring on the German beer! <h2 id="iquitos">Iquitos and the Northern Selva</h2> This is the only area in Peru where it is possible to visit the actual Amazon river and not a tributary. This means there’s wildlife here which isn’t found in other rivers, like the rare pink river dolphin. In the region, you can also visit indigenous villages such as the Yagua tribe. The main access point to the northern selva, Iquitos is the largest city in the world that cannot be reached by road – it’s accessible only by air or slow boat. The boat journey from Pucallpa takes three to five days. Bring a camping hammock with a mosquito net or consider a cabin if you are traveling alone to keep your belongings safe. Just be sure to bring a lock. Iquitos is worth spending a couple of days in before you head on a jungle tour. Check out the fascinating market in the floating shantytown Belen, which is filled with all manner of Amazonian species (sadly some endangered ones, too), shamanic herbs, liquors and other jungle delights. Trips to the renowned Tapiche reserve, around ten hours from Iquitos, can be arranged through the Green Track Hostel in Iquitos. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/amazon-medicinal-market-belen.jpg" alt="Medicinal market in Belen, Iquitos, Peru." /><figcaption>Medicinal market in Belen. Photo credit: iStock.</figcaption></figure> <h3>Reserva Nacional Pacaya-Samiria</h3> This is Peru’s largest reserve. Most people visit here on a tour from Iquitos, but you can travel to Lagunas independently and arrange a guide there for a more DIY adventure, although costs are still high – at least S/. 240 (US $75) per day excluding accommodation. <h2 id="when-to-visit">When to visit the Peruvian Amazon</h2> January to March is the rainy season, which makes travel difficult and uncomfortable due to the rain and mud. While it is possible to navigate the jungle without a guide if you are an experienced outdoorsman (or woman), this would be extremely foolish during the rainy season. The best time to visit the jungle is from April to December, with peak times between May and August, when temperatures often exceed 30°C or 86°F, although some say that the rainy season is best as it makes it easier to spot wildlife gathering around the dry areas of land. In order to enjoy the Amazon in comfort, I strongly recommend that you pack a mosquito net, bug spray, and patience – getting around takes time. It is also crucial that you pack a decent headlamp. In the darkness of the Amazon, this can at most, save your life and, at the least, help you find your way to the toilet! <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/amazon-pink-river-dolphin.jpg" alt="A pink river dolphin swims in the Amazon river in Peru." /><figcaption>Pink river dolphin. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="responsible">Responsible tourism in the Amazon Jungle</h2> Tourist initiatives are one of the best ways of protecting the rainforest and providing jobs for local people, so rest assured that, providing you <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/how-to-choose-an-ethical-tour-operator">choose a reputable operator</a>, you are helping to protect the Amazon by visiting on a wildlife watching tour.iStock/Ammonitefoto 0513497484 iStock The floating village of Belen, in Iquitos, Peru.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/responsible-tourism-peruNo longer a "lost city," Machu Picchu is famous for a reason – but these ancient marvels are equally worthwhile, and get a fraction of the crowds.2018-01-18T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/responsible-tourism-peruhttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#responsible">Responsible travel in Peru</a></li> <li><a href="#Choquequirao"> Choquequirao </a></li> <li><a href="#Kuelap"> Kuelap </a></li> <li><a href="#chan-chan"> Chan Chan and other sites near Trujillo </a></li> <li><a href="#chavin">Chavín de Huántar </a></li> <li><a href="#responsible"> More tips for traveling responsibly in Peru </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="responsible">Responsible travel in Peru</h2> Machu Picchu is at the top of most travelers’ lists of destinations to visit in Peru. In fact, nearly one million people visited the UNESCO World Heritage site in 2022. But the most famous Incan ruins are starting to feel the wear and tear of <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/destinations-combating-overtourism">mass tourism</a>. Fortunately, there are several lesser-known but highly worthwhile archeological sites in Peru that you don’t have share with with 2,500 other visitors. <h2 id="Choquequirao">Choquequirao</h2> This is Peru’s second lost city – Hiram Bingham stumbled across it in 1909, two years before he found Machu Picchu. But because it requires a <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/hiking-travel-insurance">four-day trek</a> to get there and back, more people visit Machu Picchu in a single day than visit Choquequirao in an entire year. Currently, the only way to access Choquequirao is by foot, but the Peruvian government has announced plans to build a road and a cable car. The most common starting point in the village of Cachora, a four-hour bus ride from Cusco. To support the local economy, hire a local guide in Cachora rather than one in Cusco. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/responsible-tourism-Choquequirao.jpg" /> The "lost city" of Choquequirao. Photo credit: iStock</figure> <h2 id="Kuelap">Kuélap</h2> Located in the region of Amazonas near the village of Tingo, Kuélap is another great alternative to Machu Picchu. The ruin was built around 800 AD by the Chachapoyas culture. Containing over 450 stone roundhouses and other structures, it was once home to some 3,500 people. Just getting here used to be quite a journey, but flights now run from Lima to Jaén, which is about four to five hours by ground transportation from Kuélap. Accessing the site itself is easier now, too – Kuélap became the site of Peru’s first cable car in March 2017. Visitors can now reach the ruins on a 20-minute gondola ride from Nuevo Tingo. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/responsible-tourism-Kuelap.jpg" /> Kuélap. Photo credit: iStock</figure> <h2 id="chan-chan">Chan Chan and other sites near Trujillo</h2> Located on the northwestern coast of Peru, the city of Trujillo is within easy reach of multiple ancient marvels, including Chan Chan, Huaca del Sol, and Huaca de la Luna. While it lacks the natural splendor of the Sacred Valley, Trujillo’s ruins offer a glimpse of several pre-Columbian societies and some of the country’s more interesting and accessible archeological sites. <h2 id="chavin">Chavín de Huántar</h2> Another UNESCO World Heritage site well worth visiting, this complex of temples and terraces was built by the Chavín people around 900 BC. Despite being one of the oldest pre-Columbian sites in South America, it’s the work of a highly sophisticated culture, with a mysterious network of subterranean chambers and stonework richly carved with snakes, felines, and semi-human creatures. Located east of the Cordillera Blanca, the site is best accessed from the city of Huaraz. <h2 id="responsible">More tips for traveling responsibly in Peru</h2> While Peru isn’t as overcrowded as some destinations, tourism is definitely on the increase. The Peruvian government raised its tourism budget by 15% in 2023, with much of the effort going towards showcasing alternantives to Machu Picchu. To help reduce your own impact, hire local guides, buy directly from artisans, and find ways to minimize your environmental footprint. <h3>Use less plastic</h3> You can’t drink the tap water in Peru, but you can <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/how-to-reduce-plastic-use-while-you-travel">reduce the number of plastic bottles</a> you throw away by buying water in bulk and refilling a reusable bottle. Many hotels will also offer a water dispenser in the lobby.  <h3>Find a volunteer opportunity in Peru</h3> Several organizations offer short- and long-term volunteer opportunities and internships in Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and the <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/guide-to-the-peruvian-amazon">Amazon</a>. Opportunities include community development, teaching English, and working with conservation initiatives. Volunteers can stay with local families or in shared flats with other volunteers. Make sure that organizations work closely with the local community and are responsive to local needs. <h3>Support Peru’s local artisans</h3> Peru’s handicrafts range from intricately carved gourds to warm alpaca sweaters. Whenever possible, visit artisans’ workshops and buy directly from them. For ethically sourced handcrafts, check out these shops in Lima’s Barranco district: Dédalo, Artesanos Don Bosco, and Artesanías Las Pallas. In Cusco, visit the non-profit Centro de Textiles Tradicionales, where you can also see traditional weaving demonstrations. You’ll pay more, but the shops all work to ensure that artisans receive a fair price for their work. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/responsible-tourism-handicrafts.jpg" /><figcaption>Traditional weaving. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> iStock/rchphoto 0531543248 iStock South America - Peru, Inca ruins of Choquequirao

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/alternatives-to-the-inca-trailWith permits limited on the iconic, well-trodden Inca Trail, these alternative routes to the treasures of the Andes are ever more appealing. 2018-01-18T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/alternatives-to-the-inca-trailhttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#tips"> Practical tips for hiking to Machu Picchu </a></li> <li><a href="#salkantay"> Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu </a></li> <li><a href="#ancascocha"> Ancascocha Trail to Machu Picchu </a></li> <li><a href="#choqequirao"> Classic Choquequirao Trail </a></li> <li><a href="#ausangate"> The Ausangate Trek and Vinicunca (Rainbow) Mountain </a></li> </ul> Peru's iconic Inca Trail, a fairly taxing 26-mile hike to the sacred Inca city of Machu Picchu, has been an adventure lover’s rite of passage since the site was first discovered in 1911. Around 25,000 visitors arrive each year via the Inca Trail, which cannot be hiked independently. A permit is required, and these are limited to 500 per day (including porters). As more than 1.5 million travelers in total descend on Machu Picchu each year, and the site nudges ever closer to inclusion on UNESCO’s list of endangered Heritage Sites, more sustainable tourist initiatives have taken hold. Below, we've suggested three equally scenic routes – some to Machu Picchu and some to other ancient sites – that offer trails strewn with Inca ruins amidst a flamboyant diversity of ecosystems, unsullied by massive crowds. <h2 id="tips">Practical tips for hiking to Machu Picchu</h2> Besides the alternative routes to Machu Picchu listed here, many operators will customize their standard routes and offer treks that range from basic tents to more "glamping" style options. Travelers with tight schedules and who like peace of mind should pre-book their itineraries. In very high season (June to September), tours quickly sell out and you’ll need to book your tickets for Machu Picchu several weeks in advance. To avoid <a href="/travel-wiser/wellness/how-to-deal-with-altitude-sickness">altitude sickness</a>, plan to spend two or three days acclimatizing in Cusco before setting out. High elevations can also mean dramatic temperature spikes. <h2 id="salkantay">Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu</h2> The five-day Salkantay Trail, which connects <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/locals-guide-to-cusco" target="_blank">Cusco</a> to Machu Picchu, is the most popular alternative to the classic Inca Trail. The trail starts at the village of Mollepata, a few miles from Cusco, and negotiates 45mi (72.5km) of Andean peaks, cloud forest, and lowland jungle. Widely considered to be a step up from the Inca Trail in terms of physical challenge, hikers must tackle the windswept, frigid Salkantay Pass at 14,760ft (4,500m). The trade-off is huge: the chance to hike in relative solitude past awe-inspiring Salkantay Mountain (20,569 ft or 6,269m) and through valleys studded with ruins. A five-day tour with overnights in tents costs around S/. 2,215 or US $590. For travelers that prefer more creature comforts, this hike provides the option of glamping in eco-domes or staying in high-end mountain lodges (with plush duvets, eggs over easy, and wine lists). But prices are high-end too, from S/. 3,000 to 13,140 (US $800 t0 $3,500). No permits or guides are required for the Salkantay trek, but you’ll still need to purchase an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (around S/. 150 or US $40), which your tour group will arrange. Independent hikers can organize permits for Machu Picchu in advance through the official <a href="http://www.machupicchu.gob.pe">Peruvian Ministry of Culture website</a>. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/Machu-picchu-Salkantay.jpg" /> <figcaption>Pack horses on Salkantay Trail. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="ancascocha">Ancascocha Trail to Machu Picchu</h2> Located within the Sacred Valley, the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu yields similar scenery to the classic Inca Trail, but with little tourist traffic and the chance to explore recently excavated ruins en route. Much more strenuous than the Inca Trail, this grueling, five-day, 34mi (55km) high-Andes trail involves ascending seven steep summits and negotiating rocky terrain at a dizzying 15,800ft (4,816m). Your reward: a secluded hike through the pristine landscapes of the Vilcabamba and Urubamba mountain ranges. On the final day, trekkers board the train to Aguas Calientes, the base camp for Machu Picchu. Tours begin in Cusco and drive to the starting point at Mollepata, three hours away. Prices for the tour range from around S/. 3,754 or US $1,000 (six to ten trekkers) to S/. 4,800 or US $1,280 (two trekkers). <h2 id="choqequirao">Classic Choquequirao Trail</h2> Nestled in cloud forest, some 61mi (98km) west of Cusco, the magnificent Inca citadel of Choquequirao is often called the "other Machu Picchu". With a maximum elevation of 10,000ft (3,048m), this trail is not a high-altitude head spinner compared to some other Andes treks. But it does feature some brutal ascents, rocky terrain, and a challenging hike deep into the Apurímac Canyon. Your payoff is gorgeous scenery, Quechua villages steeped in mysticism, and ruins that are still being excavated – all without the need for a guide and the crowds of Machu Picchu. Departing from Cachora (four hours from Cusco), the 4-5 day round trip hike to the ruins of Choquequirao with a guide starts at around S./ 2,627 or US $700 per person. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/Choquequirao.jpg" /> <figcaption>The "lost city" of Choquequirao. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="ausangate">The Ausangate Trek and Vinicunca (Rainbow) Mountain</h2> One of the most scenic and challenging hikes in Peru, the <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/ausangate-trek-5-magic-days-in-the-peruvian-andes">Ausangate Trek</a> is also one of the highest-altitude treks in Peru. Tour companies offer treks that range from three to seven days, but the most scenic treks involve, at a minimum, a five-day loop circuit from a starting altitude of 12,464ft (3,800m). From there, the trail ascends to over 17,060ft (5,200m) and negotiates three hair-raisingly high passes. Proximity to Ausangate's snow-covered massif means temperatures plummet well below freezing at night. Chances are you’ll encounter only a smattering of other hikers as you traverse snow-capped peaks, glaciers, high alpine lakes, and valleys full of alpacas and llamas – the Ausangate local community is one of the few shepherding communities left in the world. As well as basic campsites, trekkers can sleep at one of four upscale lodges (tambos) or in basic huts. The Ausangate trek is also one of the few trails that allow horses. Most tours start in Cusco, where outfitters will drive three-and-a-half hours southeast to Tinqui. Prices range from around S/. 2,252 or US $600 (camping) to S/. 5,440 or US $1,450 (lodges). Also available is a combined Vinicunca-Ausangate trek which showcases the much-photographed – and much-visited – Vinicunca (aka "Rainbow") mountain, with its naturally striated multi-colored hues. If you opt to do a standalone trek to Vinicunca on a day trip from Cusco, be aware that it's a challenging hike with a maximum elevation of 16,470ft (5,020m). Don't attempt it unless you've properly acclimated beforehand, and be sure to wear good hiking shoes and be prepared for both cold and sun. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/Peru/Ausangate.jpg" /> <figcaption>Ausangate. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure>Shutterstock/Rafal Cichawa 0 Shutterstock South America - Choquequirao lost ruins (mini - Machu Picchu), remote, spectacular the Inca ruins near Cuzco

Learning to Believe | Peru Photo Storyhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/connection/learning-to-believeLearning to Believe | Peru Photo StoryThu, 28 Dec 2017 21:56:47 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/connection/learning-to-believehttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/behind-the-scenes-of-a-world-nomads-scholarshipIn 2015 Photography scholarship winner Ingo Bjargmundsson and a World Nomads film crew went to Peru. This is some of what happened.2017-06-07T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/behind-the-scenes-of-a-world-nomads-scholarshiphttps://www.worldnomads.comIn 2015 World Nomads sent the photography scholarship winner, Ingo Bjargmundsson off to Peru to be mentored by Nat Geo photographer Jason Edwards. Along for the ride went a film crew to shoot some documentaries for us. Andre Borlouchi, who'd also been to India with us, was the central character and the crew from Where Next was Gregg Bleakney and Julian Manrique, and me - keeper of brand voice, runner and "get on the fricken bus or we'll be late" ringmaster. First stop, Cusco. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/Andre%20and%20Ingo%20Cusco%20depart.jpg" /> <figcaption>This is actually the last day of our 2 week assignment, our last moments together before we boarded planes to go to the four corners of the earth. Ingo and Andre, brothers in arms.</figcaption></figure> Our first day was a mini bus journey down into the Sacred Valley, through Pisac, a visit to the salt ponds at Maras and to get a taste of traditional life. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/Sacred%20Valley.jpg" /> <figcaption>Peru's Sacred valley - high in the Andes mountians and on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.</figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/Sacred%20valley%20photo%20lesson%203.jpg" /> <figcaption>Ingo getting his first lesson from mentor Jason as Julian gets his own shots.</figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/Sacred%20valley%20photo%20lesson%202.jpg" /> <figcaption>Ingo is an amateur photographer and here he is on the first day of the scholarship being mentored by a Nat Geo master while someone pokes a video camera in his face - no pressure.</figcaption></figure> We visited the Laraypas Indígenas de Amaru Association community to learn about the traditional way of life. Rather than leave their community to find work in the city they have teamed with <a href="http://explorandes.com/en/travel/short-trips/amaru-weaving-community/" target="_blank">ExploreAndes</a>, a sustainable tourism operator, to build a visitor centre that brings an income but maintains the integrity of their way of life. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/capturing%20tradition1.jpg" /> <figcaption>Julian Manrique shooting film.</figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/pacha%20Mamma%20ceremony%20note%20taking.jpg" /> <figcaption>Andre taking notes and preparing for the next filming sequence. Yes the traditional costumes, made from Llama wool, are very cosy.</figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/pacha%20Mama%20ceremony%201.jpg" /> <figcaption>Despite the film camera in the face, and Jason's impersonation of a garden gnome, the pachamamma ceremony was very spiritual.</figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/technology.jpg" /> <figcaption>Andre sharing his images with the Amaru women.</figcaption></figure> After an overnight stay at a very luxurious hotel in the valley (thankyou <a href="http://www.aranwahotels.com/en/sacred-valley/" target="_blank">Aranwa Hotels</a> - yea life on the road is tough) we made the climb to the fabulous Machu Picchu. Don't expect solitude, but apart from that the experience is everything you expect it to be. After the luxury of our overnight stay, this turned out to be a 20-hour working day. Up at 4am and we weren't back in Cusco till after midnight. So it's important to get some rest when you can - although being photographed snoozing became a game. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/gregg%20sleeping.jpg" /> <figcaption>Gregg catching a few zzzz's while Wilferdo plays traditional folk tunes on his flute (he's a super-talented man!).</figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/Andre%20machu%20Picchu.jpg" /> <figcaption>Taking a break after climbing that peak you see in the background, and getting soaked with rain.</figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/machu%20PIcchu%20team.jpg" /> <figcaption>Many thanks to our guide Wilfredo who made this an amazing experience.</figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/Cusco%20Andre%20on%20oxygen.jpg" /> <figcaption>Was it the altitude, was it the Cusqueno beers? The oxygen in the hotel was dang good either way.</figcaption></figure> After 10 days in around Cusco we flew over the Andes to Puerto Maldonaldo in the Amazon basin. Our new hosts <a href="http://www.perunature.com/" target="_blank">Rainforest Expeditions</a> built an itinerary where we could encounter the Amazon's teeming wildlife. <figure></figure> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/lake%20wildlife%201.jpg" /> <figcaption>Looking for wild giant otters while floating on a pontoon on Lake Tres Chimbadas</figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/lake%20Phil%20with%20Piranha%202.jpg" /> <figcaption>Pirhanna - catch and release.</figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Peru%20Behind%20The%20Scenes/rubber%20detail%201.jpg" /> <figcaption>Interviewing rubber farmers in the Amazon.</figcaption></figure>World Nomads 1 World Nomads The crew shooting for World Nomads on scholarship location in Peru

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/just-go-peru-machu-picchu-adventureFor thousands of years, the Incas have been carrying 50kg bags of salt up and down the Maras salt mines. Can Nomad Andre Bolourchi handle the heat?2017-01-06T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/just-go-peru-machu-picchu-adventurehttps://www.worldnomads.comCatch the latest eye-popping episode of our 'Just Go' series, where we follow Nomad Andre Bolourchi as he embarks on a fascinating adventure through Peru's Sacred Valley. On the way, he has a rich and humbling experience with the Amaru community, visits mystical and ancient Moray, gets his hands dirty at work in the colossal Maras salt mines with our local guide Wilfredo, and even samples one of Peru's most <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/a-taste-of-peru-chupe-de-camarones-shrimp-chowder" target="_blank">curious delicacies</a> - Guinea Pig! If you're interested in experiencing a trip like this, check out our friends at <a href="http://explorandes.com/en/" target="_blank">Explorandes</a>, who put this amazing adventure together!World Nomads 1 World Nomads Andre Bolourchi embarks on a fascinating adventure through Peru's Sacred Valley

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/taking-portraits-in-peruWhen Jeff McAllister first started shooting portraits, his hope was to draw the emphasis away from his own story and place it onto someone else’s.2014-09-22T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/taking-portraits-in-peruhttps://www.worldnomads.com“I’m not simply asking someone to share their story – I’m showing them how much I respect it – giving them agency to tell it in the way they best see fit and allowing them to take a piece of the way I see it, home.” - Jeff The Inca heartland has always fascinated Jeff, as it is a country split into three by jungle, coast and mountain and he wanted to get a taste of all three so he took <a href="http://www.portraitequality.org/main/cameras/sanchez/" target="_blank">Sanchez the World Nomads camera</a> along on his journey through Peru. The difference between a professional and a semi-professional camera can be a single grain of sand. I slapped my D7000 against my sticky palm, conjuring chuckles from the family in front of my lens as I attempted to dislodge whatever had frozen my non-weather sealed scroll wheel in place. In any other context this would have been great—it’s amidst the temporary trance of laughter that a man reveals his true self—but right now I was worried that my trusty DSLR was on its final frames, mid-assignment, and in a corner of the world where her replacement would be far from easy. I shook the camera a few times to no avail. Then, before exhausting the smiles in front of me, switched my focus from single-point to centre and stopped down to make sure the detail I’d originally intended to compose around wasn’t thrown beyond the new depth of field. I snapped a frame, then handed the body off to the family patriarch, Victor, to share. I felt surprisingly nervous as they eyed up the LCD. Did it live up to their expectations, having been shown samples of my previous work? The entire reason I’d come to Peru was to take portraits. In fact, I’d been sent here to shoot images of the people of Northern Peru’s Piura region—the province that receives the least amount of funding from the tourism board—which in my opinion (and those of the grant organisation, Passion Passport, who’d sponsored the trip) would assure for a unique set of images if nothing else. It was my intention to document the less-advertised corner of the country—one devoid of the felted hats, chakra necklaces, and disked-lips that adorn the pages of National Geographic and the covers of Lonely Planet. In my application, I’d even written that my goal was to provide a platform for the residents of the region to show-off their homeland before a for-profit publication came to town with pre-determined motives. But still, from the moment I penned those words, something sat uneasy with me. Weren’t these altruistic movies all a bit presumptuous? I couldn’t help but feel an underlying theme of voyeurism lurked ominously at the heart of my project. They call it “taking a picture” after all. “Portrait photography is unique among the documentary arts. At its purest, it’s a mutually consensual act. The photographer brings his perspective to an image. The subject, the world within her eyes.” - Jeff Portrait photography is unique among the documentary arts. At its purest, it’s a mutually consensual act. The photographer brings his perspective to an image. The subject, the world within her eyes. The end result is a single-frame saga: the 1/150-second summary of a meeting, days, months, years ago. Although this has always been the intention of my work, the balance between these roles isn’t always so cut and dry beyond the socio-economic bubble of the first world. The iPhone may be consuming the consumer camera in downtown Manhattan but I didn’t see either device during my week surfing sand-caked mini-buses between the fishing villages North of the Sechura. Of the eight-billion people in the world, many rely on grainy candy-bar camera phones to capture their memories (I’ve posed for many!) More still don’t even have that luxury. And in this type of environment the power dynamics of a portrait session are one sided—many will only ever see themselves on one side of the lens. The subject is expected to comply with little more than a few minutes in front of an LCD screen as incentive. Unless… In the dust-baked town of Yacila I missed two deadlines due to non-existent Internet. My cell phone struggled to make calls, let alone transmit images. For the first time in weeks, whenever I met a local person in the street I wasn’t invited to connect on Facebook. Wandering in one night from the marzipan dunes of desert, I chanced upon a fisherman I shared a bus with earlier in the day. Victor, he introduced himself. He’d spent the last ten hours navigating the chop of the Pacific on little more than a raft with an inlayed oar. “Come have a beer with me and my family,” he said in Spanish and when I suggested I grab a few extra Crystals to pay for the hospitality, he insisted there was no need. Victor’s house was a concrete rectangle surrounded by tangled fishing nets. An unfinished wall allowed air to flow through from the veranda upon which three men sat crossed legged on the sticky floor. The eldest signalled to me to let him take my bag then winced when he felt the weight. “It’s full of glass.” I tried to say in my rusty-if-still-there grade school Spanish. Then, realising it didn’t translate: “I’m a photographer.” I flipped the brass buckle and removed my road-worn D7000 and the collection of business card sized portraits I carry with me. Immediately the family lined up. And then my trusty D7000 failed to perform. “He’d [Victor] spent the last ten hours navigating the chop of the Pacific on little more than a raft with an inlayed oar. “Come have a beer with me and my family,” he said in Spanish and when I suggested I grab a few extra Crystals to pay for the hospitality, he insisted there was no need.” - Jeff While Victor and the eldest brothers used one of the few working buttons to scroll through my images, I tried to explain my project to his wife. After language failed once more, I resorted to hand-gestures and then finally the May issue of National Geographic in my bag. She flipped through a story on food security, settling on a series of portraits taken by Jim Richardson during the Andean potato harvest a couple hundred kilometres South.   “I’m not THAT good.” I laughed. “But here, let’s take one more”. I removed the white instant camera from my bag. “Uno mas.” I sung the one sentence of Spanish I’d used consistently since a month-long exchange in Cuernavaca, Mexico years ago. This time I spent a few minutes composing the exact shot I wanted. I fired off one for each brother—assuming they represented respective families. Then, once the images had exposed, handed them off. This time, the family’s expressions were less ambiguous. When the first image made its rounds, the youngest, glowing, attempted to hand it back. “This isn’t my portrait,” I said, spelling each word out with my hand. “It’s yours.” About the Author <a href="http://www.portraitequality.org/main/photographers/jeff-mcallister/" target="_blank">Jeff McAllister</a> spent the first few years of his adult life mixing solutions in a lab. Now he spends most of his time studying the chemistry between people and the world they inhabit. He prefers couch surfing to a hotel room, a bar-stool to a table for one. And when not hiking, surfing or stumbling through a new local sport, he is walking the streets of a metropolis taking portraits or looking for someone to sit down with to share a story. He has done five big expeditions since 2009 and for one reason or another; Peru has always been the country that had got away until this trip. Jeff feels that travel by its nature is governed by privilege. He has been lucky enough to see the world, gain experiences, write and photograph and share these experiences with an audience. See more of Jeff’s photos from the journey on the <a href="http://wp.me/P2MPOT-2fb" target="_blank">Portrait Equality website</a>. About Portrait Equality <a href="http://www.portraitequality.org/" target="_blank">Portrait Equality</a> is a Sydney and San Francisco based not-for-profit project that loans out instant cameras to photographers travelling in developing nations and remote communities so they can provide family portraits to those they meet. The goal is to give photos, not just take them, and perhaps give a villager their first family picture.iStock/hadynyah 0477486100 iStock Peruvian women in national clothing, Chivay, Peru

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/a-nomad-knows-peruAlicia Crosariol shares her tips for first-timers visiting Peru, from hidden gems and short trips to packing advice and travel safety tips.2013-05-13T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/a-nomad-knows-peruhttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#purchase-passes"> Never Skip on Purchasing Passes to Huayna Picchu </a></li> <li><a href="#packing"> Packing for Peru </a></li> <li><a href="#short-trips"> Short Trips in Peru </a></li> <li><a href="#hidden-gems"> Hidden Gems of Peru </a></li> <li><a href="#food"> Food in Peru </a></li> <li><a href="#safety"> Travel Safety Advice </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="purchase-passes">Never Skip on Purchasing Passes to Huayna Picchu</h2> Huayna Picchu is part of the Machu Picchu compound, but is open to only 400 people per day, at two morning time slots. It allows trekkers a steep climb up the nearby mountain to get a real bird’s eye view of the Machu Picchu ruins. As we learned the hard way, you have to pre-book entrance passes to Huayna Picchu when you book your passes to Machu Picchu or else you are not getting in. <h2 id="packing">What Do You Wish You Had Packed, but Didn’t?</h2> Clothing for every type of weather! In August, it was cool in the mornings, hot in the afternoons and freezing in the evenings – so essentially you have to dress in layers to get through the day. I forgot a hat and gloves and my travel partner didn’t bring any short-sleeved shirts. We ended up buying ponchos too. <h2 id="short-trips">Short Trips in Peru</h2> A lot of people only get two weeks to travel, what can you recommend to get the most out of that little bit of time in Peru? We did the classic Gringo Trail that loops from Lima to Cusco and back, cutting out a few destinations. We passed on the Nazca Lines (a $300USD plane ride) and skipped Puno and Lake Titicaca (which seems to be more of a tourist attraction than a cultural experience). <h2>Alicia's Itinerary</h2> Lima - 2 days Lima to Ica/Huacachina (5 hours by bus) - 1.5 days - Definitely do the dune buggy/sandboarding tour and a pisco tasting. Ica to Arequipa (overnight bus) - 3 days - Go on the day tour of the Colca Canyon. Arequipa to Cusco (overnight bus) - 3 days - Check out Maras/Moray and Salteneras, and Machu Picchu, for all of its fame, is not overrated. Cusco to Ollantaytambo (2 hours by bus) - 2 days <figure><img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/aphs.worldnomads.com/travel-tips/17484/salt2.jpg" alt="" /><figcaption>The Maras salt mines. Photo credit: World Nomads</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="hidden-gems">Did You Find Any Hidden Gems in Peru? We Won’t Tell Anyone.</h2> The town of Ollantaytambo is about halfway between Cusco and Aguas Calientes, and is a great launching point for train travel to Machu Picchu. Ollantaytambo features ruins climbing up the surrounding mountainsides, a cozy central plaza and cobblestone alleys filled with Peruvian trinket vendors and cafes. We ended up cutting our time short in Cusco to stay here an extra day. <h2 id="food">Tell Us About the Food</h2> The food in Peru was a complete and pleasant surprise. My idea of Peruvian food only conjured images of the infamous guinea pig slurped down with a few pisco sours. While the guinea pig is prevalent (and the pisco sours were good), there is so much more to the cuisine than that. <figure><img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/aphs.worldnomads.com/travel-tips/17484/chupedemariscos.jpg" alt="" /><figcaption>Chupe de mariscos in Peru. Photo credit: World Nomads</figcaption></figure> <h2>You Must Try These Foods in Peru</h2> Alpaca – very cute, and very tender. A bit wary of it? Try it in a stir fry first. Stews – Peru is famous for the hearty, veggie packed and soul warming stews…try them all. Quinoa – a perfect protein and a main crop of Peru, just give the quinoa bars a miss and instead have it in salads and stews. Chocoteja – only found in Peru, these “chocolate tiles” are filled with everything from pecans to coffee cream to raisins. Lucuma – a fruit that’s hard not to fall in love with at first bite. Pollo a la brasa – rotisserie chicken shops that will fill you up for under $4USD. Chupe de mariscos –seafood soup in a spicy red broth (a Peruvian version of the Malaysian laksa, in my opinion) Lomo Saltado – the ubiquitous stir-fry seems to be the national dish – beef, onions, tomatoes and French fries are an easy, and filling dinner dish. Pisco sours – if you try pisco on its own before you try this frothy sweet cocktail you may be turned off, but soldier on, it’s worth it. Queso helado – cheese ice cream from Arequipa tastes nothing like cheese. Coco tea – a good way to fend off altitude sickness and warm up in the mornings. <h2 id="safety">Travel Safety Advice</h2> Do you have any travel safety advice? What are the important things to remember? Generally, I felt safe in Peru. I wouldn’t recommend going out at night alone in Lima and wandering the streets, but in Cusco there were tourist police on every corner watching the streets. Also, for the long overnight bus routes, especially from Cusco back to Lima, splurge for the more expensive and nicer bus lines (like Cruz del Sur). Trust me, it will make a difference to your journey winding through the Andes. Finally, if the altitude gets to you, stay hydrated, slow down and try the coco tea.World Nomads 1 World Nomads

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/peru-transport-how-to-get-get-around-safely-a-quickguideGetting around Peru is fairly safe and easy. From buses and taxis to boats and trains, here are the best ways to travel around Peru.2022-07-08T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/peru-transport-how-to-get-get-around-safely-a-quickguidehttps://www.worldnomads.comPeru is probably on your travel list (as it should be!) but do your research before you go. Rugged terrain, landslides in the rainy season, strikes, and theft can throw a wrench in the works when traveling. Here are some tips to help make your journey enjoyable and safe. <ul> <li><a href="#bus">Buses and colectivos</a></li> <li><a href="#train">Peru by train</a></li> <li><a href="#flights">Domestic flights </a></li> <li><a href="#boat">Getting around by boat</a></li> <li><a href="#car">Renting a car in Peru</a></li> <li><a href="#taxis">Taxis and rideshares</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="bus">Buses and colectivos</h2> Peru has a lot of bus options. Peruvians travel frequently by bus between cities, and you can usually buy your tickets the day before or even the day of travel. If you buy through an agent, expect them to hike the price up a bit to give themselves a commission. If you want the cheapest rate, always buy directly from the bus company at their office in the bus terminal. There are cheap, local buses which leave from their own office, rather than the main bus terminal. Local bus companies usually run one line between two cities. If you want the cheapest option and don’t mind the bus stopping often, ask around for the local bus to the place you want to go. A two-hour bus trip can cost as little as S/10 PEN. (See the note at the end about PEN, Peruvian Nuevo Soles). There are also several big bus companies which operate lines throughout the country and some throughout South America. They have comfortable, assigned seats and offer many of the amenities you would expect from a budget airline. One is a checked baggage system, so travelers feel more <a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered/baggage">secure about their luggage</a>. Regardless of whether you checked your bag or not, always keep your valuables and your passport with you. Major companies run on schedule and often have both daytime and overnight options. Of course, the daytime buses offer the best views of the countryside while the nighttime buses save you the cost of a hotel. The main companies are <a href="https://www.cruzdelsur.com.pe/" target="_blank">Cruz del Sur</a>, <a href="https://www.oltursa.pe/" target="_blank">Oltursa</a>, Tepsa, <a href="https://www.civa.com.pe/" target="_blank">Civa</a>, and <a href="https://www.movilbus.pe/" target="_blank">Movil</a>. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/peru/bus-in-cordillera-blanca-peru.jpg" alt="A bus drives down a road filled with hairpin turns in the Cordillera Blanca region of Peru." /> <figcaption>A bus on a winding road in the Cordillera Blanca region of Peru. Image credit: Getty Images / Ignacio Palacios</figcaption></figure> Peru and Bolivia have a unique company called <a href="https://www.peruhop.com/" target="_blank">Peru Hop</a> or Bolivia Hop. This is a bus system designed for travelers which goes to major tourist destinations, rather than just between cities like the bus companies mentioned above. This is also the best option if you plan to travel around both Peru and Bolivia. Within a city, buses are called colectivo. Buses from a city to nearby towns or suburbs are also called colectivo. These can be an actual bus, or they can be a van. Most have a name, rather than a number and the main streets or neighborhoods they go to are painted on the side. Prices range from S/1 to S/4 and are always posted inside the vehicle. Besides a driver there’s a person who collects the fare – sometimes they ask for the fare when you get on but more often you are expected to pay when you get off. <h2 id="train">Peru by train</h2> Peru is challenging for trains because so much of the country is steep Andes mountains or swampy <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/guide-to-the-peruvian-amazon">Amazon jungle</a>. The coast near Lima and the south of Peru have the best options for train travel. The coastline is mostly flat and much of southern Peru is high altitude plains, called the Altiplano. All trains request that travelers arrive at the train station at least a half hour before departure. The most popular train line runs to the town of Aguas Calientes, directly below Machu Picchu. Some trains leave from Cusco, but most travelers take the train from Ollantaytambo, in the Sacred Valley. Tickets are available from <a href="https://www.perurail.com/" target="_blank">PeruRail</a> or <a href="https://incarail.com/">InkaRail</a>. These are owned by the same company and only give the impression that there is competition in the market. The company is in fact a monopoly and fixes prices extraordinarily high. However, unless you want to <a href="/explore/south-america/peru/alternatives-to-the-inca-trail">walk to Machu Picchu</a>, the train is the only way to get there. There are no roads. If you want to go inland from Lima, there’s a train to Huancayo on Ferrocarril Central Andino, which takes 14 hours. Due to the geology of the Andes, the train goes through 69 tunnels and over 58 bridges. There’s a stop in San Bartolomé where passengers can buy food and souvenirs before the second half of the trip. From Huancayo another train goes south to Huancavelica. The most comfortable way to see the Altiplano is the train from Cusco to Puno. Like the train to Machu Picchu, this is a service designed for foreign travelers, with comparably high prices. Puno is one of the two towns from which you can visit the Peruvian islands on Lake Titicaca and offers the best access to the floating islands of Uros. You can also visit the islands from Juliaca (the best way to access the islands of Amantaní and Taquile). You can fly to Juliaca, which has the only airport in the region. The railways offer an enticing experience, steaming through the Peruvian peaks, but the reality doesn't always measure up to the romance. There are generally three classes of tickets available, although some trains are reserved for locals and others only for travelers. The basic económico trains are almost always crowded and can be uncomfortable. The more expensive services offer waiters, restaurant carriages, and increased security. Train travel in Peru is a bit of a novelty, sold as an experience rather than a practicality. It's worth trying out, but don't rely on rail as a big part of your travel plans. <h2 id="flights">Domestic flights</h2> Flying is the easiest way to visit this geographically diverse country. Peru is highly centralized, and most flights go through Lima. Some of the few direct national flights go from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado or Arequipa. Budget airlines are increasingly competitive as Peruvians fly more in-country. This competition has even lowered prices with the biggest airlines in the region: LATAM. In some cases, a flight doesn’t cost much more than the bus and it’s always faster. Do your research when flying with budget airlines, as not all have great records. That said, I have taken dozens of flights within Peru and never had trouble other than the typical delays that plague most airlines. <h2 id="boat">Getting around by boat</h2> The Peruvian Amazon is a special part of South America’s largest jungle and the only way to access most of it is by boat. You can fly into a few towns and most travelers start their trip to the jungle by flying to either Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado. From there, all travel will be by boat on tributaries of the Amazon River. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/peru/peru-tourist-boat-near-iquitos.jpg" alt="A small, rustic tourist boat on the river near Iquitos, Peru." /> <figcaption>A tour boat on the river near Iquitos, Peru. Image credit: Getty Images / Kim Schandorff</figcaption></figure> There are many local and international companies that organize jungle tours and visits to lodges. All include boat transportation as part of their services. If you prefer to travel on your own, boat captains and guides are available in towns like Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado. Always check the boat for safety equipment and ask how long the captain has been working that particular stretch of river. As a side note, legal and illegal mining are controversial in the Peruvian Amazon and there are frequent protests against mining. Always check local news organizations before heading to the Amazon. If the area you want to visit has strikes and protests, consider changing your itinerary. Lake Titicaca is another place where you can travel by boat. There are ferry boats for locals from the town of Capachica to Amantaní island that cost less than S/10 per person. Puno has boats to the floating Uros islands and the islands of Taquile and Amantaní. Boats from Puno are organized by tour agencies, so always research the agency before purchasing a ticket. Some agencies will try to sell you tours of the islands with homestays but you can ask for transportation only and find your own lodging when you get to the islands. <h2 id="car">Renting a car in Peru</h2> I have only rented a car to drive up and down the coast from Lima, but I wouldn’t hesitate to rent one for road trips in other areas of the country. Renting a car in Peru can be quite inexpensive but check that your insurance covers rental car damages. Local companies and Peruvian franchises of international companies have a reputation for exaggerating damage to get the most they can out of travelers when the vehicle is returned. Within Lima, I recommend using taxis instead of driving, as traffic is horrible. If you’re driving in Peru, be aware that police sometimes set up checkpoints in areas where there is suspected narcotrafficking or other illegal activity. Comply politely with any requests to search the vehicle and you’ll soon be on your way. Only stop and roll down your windows for uniformed police as occasionally the narcotraffickers themselves will set up roadblocks, especially in the north of Peru near the border with Colombia. Speeding is a major problem in Peru, which is why there are speed bumps everywhere. Practice defensive driving and avoid driving after dark. Note that Peru is close to the equator, so the sun sets quickly. Plan to get where you're going by around 6pm. I have also rented a car with a driver for trips between cities when I wanted to stop along the way or didn’t like the set schedules of buses or flights. If you don’t want to deal with driving yourself but want more flexibility than buses, consider hiring a taxi driver for the day. This can be very inexpensive, especially when the cost is split between a group. <h2 id="taxis">Taxis and rideshares</h2> Taxis are ubiquitous and relatively cheap in Peru. The most expensive taxis are in Lima, primarily because the city is sprawling and traffic is terrible. In smaller places there is often a set rate for the center of town. Ask at your lodging how much you should expect to pay for a taxi to your destination. Peruvians always tell taxi drivers where they want to go and ask how much they would charge before getting in, and travelers should too. In small towns, not all taxis are marked as such. Any driver looking for a fare will honk as they drive by, which can be obnoxious until you get used to it. Official taxis are clearly labeled and inside you will see the taxi driver’s license and photo ID posted. In Cusco, where I'm based, I don’t hesitate to get in a car that stops for me, even it doesn’t have a clear taxi sign. However, if you’re unfamiliar with the town or <a href="/explore/guides/spanish-travel-phrasebook">don’t speak Spanish</a>, it’s better to wait for an official cab. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/peru/taxis-cusco.jpg" alt="Taxis drive in front of the cathedral on the Plaza de Armas, Cusco, Peru." /> <figcaption>Taxis drive past a church on the Plaza de Armas, Cusco. Image credit: Heather Jasper</figcaption></figure> Rideshare apps like Uber are popular in Lima, but rarely used in other Peruvian cities. As security is a major issue in many areas of Lima, apps are preferred because passengers get information about the driver before they get in. If you’re not confident negotiating in Spanish, an app will also help you get a fair price. If you’re in a taxi or car in Lima, always keep your window closed, door locked, and your valuables at your feet. There’s been a rise in incidents of thieves on motorcycles driving by and <a href="/travel-safety/south-america/peru/crime-in-peru">snatching purses or bags</a> through open taxi windows. As mentioned above, you can also hire a taxi for long-distance rides between towns. You have the option of paying for just one seat in a cab or for hiring the whole taxi. Taxis between cities all have a particular street from which they depart and there are often competing companies. I usually check prices between two or three companies and look for one has a car that’s mostly full. If there’s only one seat free, then I know that I won’t have to wait for more people to show up. <h3>A note about Peruvian currency</h3> The Peruvian Nuevo Sol, also known by its currency code PEN, is a volatile currency. Always check the current conversion rates before your trip as that can make all the difference in your trip budget.  Heather Jasper 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/peru/a-taste-of-peru-chupe-de-camarones-shrimp-chowderAyngelina Brogan shares her recipe for Chupe de Camarones (shrimp chowder) – a traditional dish in Southern Peru. 2019-08-01T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/peru/a-taste-of-peru-chupe-de-camarones-shrimp-chowderhttps://www.worldnomads.comCities are dotted with <a href="http://www.baconismagic.ca/food/how-i-will-remember-2010/" target="_blank">wonderful street vendors selling fruit and serving up hot food</a>. In North America if you are going on a long bus ride or trip, part of the packing preparation is bringing enough food and water with you, particularly as airport food is expensive but not particularly tasty. But in South America you can simply show up at the bus terminal, check your bags, eat an inexpensive lunch and buy some snacks for the road. The other great thing is that bus terminals do not serve tourist food but offer what the local's eat so you know you're getting an authentic taste of the area. On a recent trip in Southern Peru, I was able to try chupe de camarones - or shimp chowder, a dish traditional to the area. Peru is an enormous country and food varies from region to region, while I had previously eaten fresh from the ocean <a href="http://www.baconismagic.ca/food/my-first-love-affair-in-peru/" target="_blank">sudado</a> and <a href="http://www.baconismagic.ca/food/how-to-make-peruvian-ceviche/" target="_blank">ceviche</a> in the North, chupe de camarones was a completely different flavour profile because it contains river shrimp. It's a deliciously simple dish and easy enough to recreate at home. <h2>Ingredients:</h2> <ul> <li>2 lbs shrimp</li> <li>3 eggs, cracked and beaten in a bowl</li> <li>1 lb potato, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks</li> <li>1/2 small red onion, finely chopped</li> <li>1/4 cup long-grain white rice</li> <li>2 ears of corn, cut into 1-inch chunks</li> <li>4 cups water</li> <li>1 cup evaporated milk</li> <li>1 garlic clove, finely chopped</li> <li>2 tablespoons olive oil</li> <li>1 tablespoon tomato paste</li> <li>1 teaspoon oregano</li> <li>1 teaspoon salt</li> <li>A few drops of hot sauce</li> </ul> <h2>Method:</h2> 1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and cook for 2 minutes. Add the tomato paste and hot sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 10 minutes, or until onion is softened. 2. Add 4 cups of water to pan, bring to a boil. Stir in rice and corn chunks. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. 3. Add potatoes and salt. Continue cooking 10 more minutes or until potatoes and rice are just tender. Add shrimp. Simmer, until shrimp are pink, about 4 minutes. 4. Stir in evaporated milk and oregano. When the soup begins boiling again add eggs. Keep stirring until eggs are cooked. <h3>About the Author</h3> Ayngelina Brogan left a great job, boyfriend, apartment and friends to find inspiration in Latin America. Follow her adventures on her blog <a href="http://www.baconismagic.ca/" target="_blank">Bacon is Magic</a>, on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/baconismagic" target="_blank">Facebook</a> or <a href="http://www.twitter.com/ayngelina" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.Getty Images/Dmitry_Saparov 1523706703 Getty Images Chupe de camarones, Peruvian shrimp chowder