6 reasons why a Peru holiday is a great idea

We often hear of people dreaming of a Costa Rica holiday (always a good idea by the way!) – but beautiful Peru all too often falls off people’s holiday wish lists. We’re here to change that! 

Lesser-visited, but no less special – a Peru holiday allows you to combine adventure and world wonders, with truly unparalleled landscapes and some of the best festivals on the planet. 

One of our wonderful Peru experts, Dawn, has not long returned from her latest adventure around the country (you can read all about it here!) And, now she’s back and bursting with travel tales and inspiration from her time there, we’d argue there’s no better time to consider a Peru holiday. Give our Dawn a call to hear all about it. 

If you need more convincing before hand, here are 6 reasons why we think Peru should be your next holiday destination. 

6 reasons to go to Peru (over and above the llamas)

1. The ancient Incan wonder of Machu Picchu

Perhaps the first thing that comes to mind when you picture Peru, Machu Picchu, had to top the list. Yes, it might be a regular highlight – but here at HA, we understand the importance of designing holidays that get you exploring the best highlights a country has to offer… all whilst making sure we scatter plenty of unexpected moments and surprises in along the way. Machu Picchu is just the start… If you’ve never experienced what it feels like to lay eyes on an ancient wonder, you’re in for a treat. Perched in the jagged peaks of the Andes, this ancient Incan citadel is a shining testament of Peru’s history and architectural brilliance. When you’re walking amongst the terraces, it’s almost impossible to comprehend how this city was constructed all those very many years ago. If you’re not up to the hike up, you can take the scenic train ride up, both experiences are special in their own ways! 

2. More festivals than you can shake a llama at

The Peruvian people love a party! It’s frequently claimed that there are more than 3,000 traditional Peruvian festivals that take place every year – and (although we haven’t counted them) that seems feasible to us! The streets of Cusco burst to life every June with the vibrant Inti Raymi Festival, La Fiesta Candelaria is one to rival even Rio de Janeiro’s world-renowned carnival and, perhaps most importantly, there’s a national day dedicated to Pisco Sours, Peru’s national drink. 

Here are our top 10 festivals in Peru to time your holiday around. 

3. The food scene: From the Michelin Stars to the local markets 

If you’re a foodie (like every single one of us on Team HA), you’ll be in your element in Peru – it’s a country bursting with world-class cuisine. Peru has managed to fuse the traditional flavours of local, Peruvian ingredients with cutting edge global influences – and has been rewarded with many a Michelin Star restaurant as a result. Lima is the place to go for some tantalising adventures in top restaurants, but don’t miss the experience of dining on a fresh ceviche anywhere by the coast or a hearty plate of loco salted in the Andes. 

4. You’ll journey through cities, rainforests, ancient valleys and Andes peaks 

Few countries can hold a candle to the diverse landscapes awaiting you in Peru. Of course, you’ll see the iconic Incan citadel of Machu Picchu, but Peru has more up its sleeve than that. You’ve got the lush Amazon rainforest with all of its wild inhabitants, the sweeping views and ancient villages scattered across the Sacred Valley, the gleaming shores of Lake Titicaca, the towering peaks of the Andes Mountains and the cavernous depths of the Colca Canyon – all enjoyed as Andean condors circle above. 

5. Experiencing the warmth of Peruvian culture and hospitality 

The Peruvian people are so wonderful by nature. They’re warm, friendly and greet travellers with a genuine hospitality and welcome that’s hard to match. You might be walking through the cobbled streets of a remote village in the Sacred Valley passing locals (often in traditional dress), or navigating the buzzing streets of Lima – wherever you are in the country, you’ll be met with smiles, open arms and countless stories and tales of traditions. We work with some truly fantastic guides all across Peru. Head to Dawn’s post about her recent adventure to read about how her guides Percy (Machu Picchu) and Mauricio (Colca Canyon) made her experience even more special. For us, travel is as much about connections as it is about sites and landscapes. We know you’ll leave Peru with a real understanding of Peruvian cultures and traditions, and a love of the people who call it home.  

6. Ancient archaeology and civilisations galore 

Machu Picchu might be the biggest jewel in Peru’s archeological crown – but that crown is a packed one! Peru is home to an impressive array of wonders, from the mysterious Nazca Lines and the ruins of Chan Chan, to the ancient city of Coral, one of the oldest in South America! A Peru holiday will give you an unforgettable glimpse into the past and the ancient civilisations that have made their homes in Peru over the eras. 

These are 6 top reasons why we think you should consider a Peru holiday, but there are so many more. Our experts Dawn and Lou have spent so much time over in the country, exploring all four corners to dig out the very best experiences, accommodation and hidden sites to make your Peru holiday extra special. Get in touch today if this South American country is tempting you to reach for your passport.