Journey to Ancient Peru: Discovering the Wonders of the Lost Civilization
Peru is known for its ancient civilization, home to the Inca Empire from the 13th to 16th century. The country is located on South America’s western coast, and it is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, and Chile to the east. Peru is a country that is rich in history and cultural heritage, and it’s no wonder that it attracts millions of tourists from around the world every year. In this article, we will explore the various wonders of the lost civilization of Peru, and what you can discover there.
HTML Headings:
• Intro
• Machu Picchu
• Cusco
• Lima
• Nazca Lines
• Arequipa
• Lake Titicaca
• Kuelap
• Huacas del Sol y de la Luna
• Huacachina
• FAQs
• Conclusion
1. Machu Picchu
The Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, is the most visited tourist attraction in Peru. It was built in the 15th century and is located 2,430 meters above sea level. Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was declared one of the Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. The city was abandoned during the Spanish conquest of Peru and rediscovered in 1911. It is known for its spectacular views and terraced hillsides, which were used for farming.
2. Cusco
Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is known for its colonial architecture and historical significance. It is located 3,399 meters above sea level and is surrounded by the Andes mountains. Cusco is also a popular base for visiting Machu Picchu.
3. Lima
Lima is the capital of Peru and is located on the country’s Pacific coast. It is known for its Spanish colonial architecture, museums, and parks. Lima is also famous for its food, and it is considered one of the best places to eat in South America. The city has several popular tourist attractions, including the Plaza de Armas, the Larco Museum, and the Miraflores neighborhood.
4. Nazca Lines
The Nazca Lines are located in southern Peru and consist of geoglyphs, which are large designs made on the ground by removing rocks and earth. The designs include animals, plants, and geometric shapes. The Nazca Lines were created by the Nazca people between 400 and 650 AD and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Arequipa
Arequipa is known for its colonial architecture and is located 2,300 meters above sea level. The city is surrounded by the Andes mountains and is home to several volcanoes, including Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. Arequipa is also famous for its food, and it is a popular base for hiking and trekking in the Colca Canyon.
6. Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world and is located on the border of Peru and Bolivia. The lake is known for its stunning views, traditional villages, and ancient ruins, including the island of Taquile and the pre-Inca ruins of Tiwanaku. Lake Titicaca is also home to the Uros people, who live on man-made floating islands made of reeds.
7. Kuelap
Kuelap is a pre-Inca fortress located in the northern highlands of Peru. The fortress was built by the Chachapoyas people in the 6th century and is known for its massive stone walls and circular buildings. Kuelap is also surrounded by beautiful scenery and is located 3,000 meters above sea level.
8. Huacas del Sol y de la Luna
Huacas del Sol y de la Luna are two massive temples located in the Moche Valley in northern Peru. The temples were built by the Moche people between 100 and 800 AD and are known for their intricate murals and decorations. The Huacas are also located near the city of Trujillo, which is known for its colonial architecture and monuments.
9. Huacachina
Huacachina is a small oasis located in the southwestern part of Peru. The oasis is surrounded by sand dunes and is known for its natural beauty and adventure sports, including sandboarding and dune buggy rides. Huacachina is also home to several restaurants, bars, and shops.
10. FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Peru?
A: The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, which lasts from May to September. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect crowds at popular tourist attractions.
Q: How do I get to Machu Picchu?
A: To get to Machu Picchu, you can take a train from Cusco or hike the Inca Trail. The Inca Trail is a popular option for those who want to experience the ancient trail that the Incas used to reach Machu Picchu.
Q: What is the altitude sickness?
A: Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness, is a condition that can occur when you travel to high altitudes, such as those found in Peru. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
11. Conclusion
Peru is a fascinating country that is full of history, culture, and adventure. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the natural beauty of Lake Titicaca, there is something for everyone in Peru. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or adventure sports, Peru has it all. So why not plan your next vacation to this incredible country and discover the wonders of the lost civilization for yourself?