Peru

Peru is currently one of the world's top travel destinations. Its huge geographical diversity - from deserts through snow-capped mountains to tropical rainforest - makes for dazzling landscapes, home to animals and birds as varied as the vicuña and souring condor.

History is still alive in the remains of the majestic sanctuary of Machu Picchu and treasures of Inca gold, as well as the baroque cathedrals of the conquistadors.

The country's huge variety can best be experienced following arrival in Lima with a classic Cuzco/Machu Picchu tour. Arequipa, Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca make the perfect extension for those with more time.


	Events Calendar 10 January 2006 Festival de la Sor de Los Angeles y Monteagudo This festival in Arequipa celebrates the patron saint of the Santa Catalina monastery, located in the centre of Arequipa. 4-15 March 2006 Grape Harvest Festival Ica, Peru's viticultural capital, has many vineyards and bodegas. 15-16 July 2006 Festival del Virgen del Carmen Every July the remote northern town of Celendin offers a festival treat, featuring a fantastic array of costumes and masks. October 2006 Procession of the Lord of Miracles Jesus Christ as the Lord of Miracles is the patron saint of Lima. Every year his patronage is celebrated in spectacular fashion.

	Hiram Bingham
	The ultimate way to journey to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu is aboard the Hiram Bingham luxury train. more »

	Miraflores Park Hotel, Lima
	Miraflores Park Hotel is located in one of South America's most interesting cities and provides easy access to the city's main attractions. more »

	Hotel Monasterio, Cuzco
	A converted monastery built on the remains of the Inca stone walls that retains all the peace and colonial elegance of centuries past. more »

	Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge
	A place of unforgettable sunrises and magical nights at the heart of the Valley of the Incas. more »

Languages: Quechua (Official), Spanish

Currency: Nuevo Sol

Climate: Quite dry year round in this coastal region, and cool for this latitude. Best time is between January to March, with an average daytime temperature of 20°C (82°F).

Culture: Peru is a country of multiple layers of great civilisations, which has preserved the legacy of the Spanish conquistadors.

Places to see:
Arequipa - the 'white city', surrounded by great mountains, including the volcano El Misti.
Cuzco - The continent's archaeological capital and oldest continuously inhabited city.
Lima - A vast metropolis, and capital city.
Machu Picchu - the lost Inca city.

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