MAIN Travel South America Peru

Evoking images of friendly locals, Incan ruins and historic treasure, with sun-drenched mountains inhabited by native llamas ... Peru along with neighbors Brazil and Chile is the one of must-see countries in all of South America.

Located along the western Pacific coast lies the capital city of Lima, where many travelers touch down for their first look at the country.

Lima's coastal location makes it an important fishing center, so begin your journey by filling up with the city's world-famous cuisine, most noted for top-notch (and outrageously affordable) seafood restaurants.

Then, take a walk around Lima to discover historic riches from the city's importance as a center of early 16th century Spanish rule, providing visits to lovingly preserved churches and monasteries from the era.

Pre-dating the Spanish invasion by centuries, Peru also boasts its importance in connection with the Incan empire. Therefore, a trip to its once-might capital, Cusco, remains at the top of the 'to do' list for millions of visitors a year.

Perhaps most spectacular of all, also don't miss the train ride to nearby Machu Picchu, an Incan ruin only discovered in 1911 - that sits amid natural flora and fauna 8,000 feet above sea level, and whose mysteries are still being unraveled by archaeologists.

More about Peru travel & tourism around the Web:

Peru Tourism Bureau - The official site, offering information on top attractions throughout the country including Lima, Amazon river trips, Incan ruins and more, suggested itineraries, a guide to Peruvian crafts, hotels & restaurants, event & festival calendar, photo gallery, free travel kits & brochures.

Peru Travel & Tourism - A colorful online tour told in photos, video clips and guides to major attractions by region or area of interest, including a searchable database of top hotels, plus weather facts, travel tips, festival calendar.

Andean Travel Web Guide to Peru - A virtual Peru travel encyclopedia with photos & information on top destinations, museums, national parks and outdoor adventure, with links to major tour operators, hotels, restaurants, online Spanish lessons, travel planners and practical tips.

Peru Travel Blogs - Get been-there advice from fellow travelers with pictures & first-person accounts from major travel spots around Peru.

Lima travel guide - Wikitravel entry with an overview of what to see and do, hotel & restaurant suggestions, safety and travel etiquette tips.

Machu Picchu : In Depth - Top-notch Frommer's guide with detailed information on its history, step-by-step guide to exploring the ruins, with more on everything from suggested nearby hotels & restaurants to where to find an Internet cafe.

Cusco & Machu Picchu Travel Guide - Excellent insider guide from Fodor's on planning a trip throughout the area including stops at markets and restaurants, list of suggested hotels, related travel tips, maps.

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