An Adventure Traveler's Guide to Exploring Peru
From the Pacific Ocean to the Amazon jungle, the desert and the Andes, Peru is the perfect destination for those looking for adventure. Peru has more options than just the Inca Trail, and enough thrills to keep even an adrenaline junkie satisfied. Here is our guide for those looking for new experiences in some of the world’s most remote places.
Jungle Expedition
It doesn’t get any more adventurous than hiking through the Amazon jungle and enjoying its biodiversity. Hike through the thick forest of the Amazon or take a boat cruise to find pink dolphins. There are many different packages for staying in the Amazon, from luxury riverboat tours to jungle resorts. You’ll want to go during the dry season, which is June to November, to avoid the rain. A favorite spot for travelers willing to traverse the jungle is Parque Nacional Manu, a well-preserved national park that offers visitors a chance to encounter a variety of wildlife.
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Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
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2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
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3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
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2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
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2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
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3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
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2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
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3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
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2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
Inca Trail
This may well be what drew you to Peru in the first place: the chance to hike the famous and inscrutable Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The Inca trail will cost about $600–$800 for four days and three nights, ending with your arrival at the ruins.
Sand Dune Surfing
After you’ve practiced surfing in the water, take your new-found skills to the sand. You wont get tossed around by a rogue wave, but you might fall down a dune or two – at least it’s only sand. Three hours south of Lima lies the small desert oasis town of Huacachina, surrounded by sand dunes. Take off on a dune buggy and enjoy the sand surfing.
Hike to Peru’s Stone Faces
Located just five hours from Lima, Marcahuasi is a stone forest in the Andes. It has gained world recognition because of its mysteriously shaped stones that resemble human faces and animals. The origins of these seemingly carved figures has been the subject of countless debates, with some posturing that they were created by aliens. Marcahuasi is higher than both Cusco and Machu Picchu, making the hike to the top difficult, but locals offer horses and donkeys for rent if needed. Bring a tent, a sleeping bag, and some warm clothes and enjoy the mysteries of Marcahuasi.
Surf Peru
There is never a dull moment surfing in Peru, which is known to have some of the best waves in the world. There are waves for beginners and experts alike, all along Peru’s coastline. If you want to enjoy the sun and the waves, head to the north of Peru. Playa Chicama, which has one of the longest left-hand point breaks in the word, and Mancora, in the north of Peru, will give you days of epic surf when the swell is right. If you’re in Lima, head to Punta Roquitas or La Herradura.
Rafting the Urubamba River
This is not one for the faint of heart. Companies offer adrenaline-seekers a chance to raft down class III and IV rapids in the Sacred Valley, located a short distance from Cusco. Go with a guide and a group of friends and enjoy the rush of river rafting. Companies will outfit you with gear, which includes a helmet, because it can get dangerous, and transportation. It is a great way to escape the city life of Cusco and raft world-class rapids.
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meet our Local Insider
Hanna
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
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