Road trip in Peru, 15 April - 1 May 2025
Colca Canyon
A stunning canyon combining natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.
This breathtaking geographical marvel, often referred to as the world's second deepest canyon, is a sight to behold. With a depth that reaches over 3,270 meters, it is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the United States. The canyon's rugged landscape is adorned with pre-Incan agricultural terraces that have been carved into its steep slopes, a testament to the region's rich history and the ingenuity of its ancient inhabitants.
The canyon is not just a geological wonder, but also a haven for diverse wildlife. It is home to the Andean condor, a bird with the largest wingspan of any land bird. These majestic creatures can often be seen soaring above the canyon, providing a thrilling spectacle for visitors. The canyon's river also teems with life, including several species of trout and the giant Andean catfish.
The region's history is as captivating as its natural beauty. The canyon was inhabited by the Collaguas and the Cabanas, two pre-Incan civilizations, who left behind impressive structures and artifacts. The terraces they built for agriculture are still in use today, and their tombs can be found in the cliffs of the canyon. The canyon also features several hot springs, which were used by the Incas and are still enjoyed by visitors today.
The local culture is another highlight of the region. The canyon is home to several small villages, where traditional Andean customs and ways of life are still practiced. Visitors can experience local festivals, sample traditional cuisine, and purchase handmade crafts. The canyon is also known for its vibrant textiles, which feature intricate designs and bright colors.
Despite its remote location, the canyon offers a range of activities for visitors. Hiking is a popular choice, with trails that offer stunning views of the canyon and its surroundings. For the more adventurous, there are opportunities for white-water rafting on the canyon's river. The region's hot springs also provide a relaxing way to unwind after a day of exploring.
The canyon's beauty and history, combined with its diverse wildlife and vibrant local culture, make it a must-see destination. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, this awe-inspiring canyon has something to offer everyone.
The canyon is not just a geological wonder, but also a haven for diverse wildlife. It is home to the Andean condor, a bird with the largest wingspan of any land bird. These majestic creatures can often be seen soaring above the canyon, providing a thrilling spectacle for visitors. The canyon's river also teems with life, including several species of trout and the giant Andean catfish.
The region's history is as captivating as its natural beauty. The canyon was inhabited by the Collaguas and the Cabanas, two pre-Incan civilizations, who left behind impressive structures and artifacts. The terraces they built for agriculture are still in use today, and their tombs can be found in the cliffs of the canyon. The canyon also features several hot springs, which were used by the Incas and are still enjoyed by visitors today.
The local culture is another highlight of the region. The canyon is home to several small villages, where traditional Andean customs and ways of life are still practiced. Visitors can experience local festivals, sample traditional cuisine, and purchase handmade crafts. The canyon is also known for its vibrant textiles, which feature intricate designs and bright colors.
Despite its remote location, the canyon offers a range of activities for visitors. Hiking is a popular choice, with trails that offer stunning views of the canyon and its surroundings. For the more adventurous, there are opportunities for white-water rafting on the canyon's river. The region's hot springs also provide a relaxing way to unwind after a day of exploring.
The canyon's beauty and history, combined with its diverse wildlife and vibrant local culture, make it a must-see destination. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, this awe-inspiring canyon has something to offer everyone.
Lima
This bustling metropolis is the capital of a country known for its rich Incan heritage, diverse landscapes, and world-renowned cuisine.
Miraflores
This vibrant district is renowned for its lush parks, world-class restaurants, and bustling nightlife.
Huaca Pucllana
The pre-Columbian site is a main attraction in the colonial centre of Lima, offering insight into the region's ancient history.
Paracas
A small seaside town filled with restaurants serving fresh seafood, it offers a unique coastal experience.
Ballestas Islands
Known as the 'poor man's Galapagos', this destination offers a rich biodiversity that rivals its more famous counterpart.
Nazca
This enigmatic location, steeped in ancient history, is home to a series of massive geoglyphs etched into the earth's surface.
Arequipa
A blend of history, architecture, nature, and culinary excellence.
Chivay
A small town nestled at an altitude of 3,650 meters in the Peruvian Andes, it offers a unique high-altitude experience.
Colca Canyon
A stunning canyon combining natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.
Puno
A town of 145,000 inhabitants, it's situated at the western end of Lake Titicaca, at an altitude of 3,860 m..
Lake Titicaca
Situated at an altitude of 3,860 m, Puno is a town of 145,000 inhabitants at the western end of the renowned body of water.
Sillustani
A stunning example of architectural and cultural heritage.
Cusipata
A quaint village nestled in the vast Andean Altiplanos, it offers a unique experience with stays at the River Lodge, located next to the Urubamba River.
Andean Altiplanos
This high-altitude plateau, stretching across several nations, is a breathtaking spectacle of nature's grandeur.
Titicaca Plateau
This high-altitude region, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural history, is a must-visit for any traveler.
Urubamba River
This majestic waterway, often referred to as the Sacred River, is a significant part of the ancient Incan Empire.
Cuzco
This ancient city, once the heart of the Inca Empire, is a treasure trove of history and culture.
Sacred Valley
This breathtaking region, steeped in rich Incan history, is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, terraced farmlands, and traditional Andean villages.
Chinchero
This colonial town is known for its peculiar structure of circular terraces that sink into a 150-meter deep crater.
Moray Agricultural Laboratory
This unique structure consists of circular terraces that descend into a 150-meter deep crater.
Ollantaytambo
This beautiful small town is built on ancient Incan walls, preserving their urban features.
Inca Trail
This ancient path, carved by a civilization long past, is a testament to the ingenuity and endurance of its creators.
Machu Picchu
High above the Sacred Valley, an ancient citadel rests on a mountain ridge, a testament to the architectural prowess of a long-gone civilization.
Inca Bridge
It's an impressive trail along vertical cliffs of a canyon, offering an opportunity for a hike up to a historical site.
Huayna Picchu
This towering peak, often shrouded in mist, is a prominent feature of the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu.
Puerto Maldonado
This vibrant city, located in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, is a gateway to some of the most pristine rainforests in the world.
Madre De Dios
It's an Amazonian tributary where one can observe turtles, osprey, and capybara on its banks.
Sandoval Lake
This Amazonian gem is accessible via a 5 km jungle trail.