The Advantages of Group Travel to Peru

The Advantages of Group Travel to Peru
By E. Ferrer

Group travel can be a great way of exploring Peru, in particular when it comes to interest-specific trips involving adventurous travel that will probably take you off the beaten track.

Indeed, many great travel experiences in Peru are unfeasible without group travel, both for safety reasons and economic costs. Some examples include birdwatching in the Manu National Park, trekking in the Cordillera Huayhuash, and, of course, whitewater rafting.

Cost reduction, fun potential among group members, and experience sharing are probably the greatest advantages of group travel. Group travel though isn't for everyone and if you're of the lone-traveller type, it probably isn't for you. Indeed, even the more friendly and outgoing could find that travelling in packs isn't easy, as people problems and personality conflicts might be frequent.

When considering group travel, you should ask the travel agent about their focus: adventure, culture, nature, active travel? Although some tours appeal to a wide range of travellers, many have an archetype traveller. If you were expecting to discover Peru's spiritual edge, you'll probably feel frustrated among a group of shopaholics. The same applies if you're a party animal: you'll rather avoid a group of early-risers, museum-lovers.

Small groups are probably the best option. They allow you to share the company without crowding your experience. Moreover, small travel groups have less impact on local communities and environments.

Journalist, impenitent traveller, and aficionado cook, Ferrer is founder of The Peru Guide, and its Lima Restaurant and Nightlife editor.

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Peru History

Peru History
By Jimmy Sturo

The history of Peru dates back to the prehistoric age. Archeologists have found evidence such weapons made out of flint stone in the land that is now Peru. Ruins of ceremonial temples can still be found in some parts of Peru. In the early times, the occupation followed by most Peruvians was weaving, horticulture, or fishing. The first culture that emerged in Peru was the Chavin civilization.

The first monumental temples were built by the Chavins, but there seems to be no evidence of a middle class society existing during their time. The coastal region saw the emergence of the Parcas during 300 BC. People of this culture produced textile fiber not only from cotton but also from vicua. Other cultures that flourished were the Moche and the Nazca. Moches were known to produce impressive metal work and fine pottery. The Nazcas were good at producing textiles.

Constant floods and droughts caused these cultures to decline. The Huari and Tiwanku cultures, which dwelled in the inlands, became prominent due to their vigorous military conquerors who built and maintained important outposts throughout Peru. In 1531, the Spanish landed in Peru, and it became the prime territory of the Incas civilization. The Spanish gradually colonized all of Peru and received tributes from the Peruvian population. Even though the Spanish allotted a piece of land to Christianity converts, the owner was still the King of Spain.

Fransisco Pizarro was a Spanish explorer who arrived in Peru to explore the Inca wealth. Pizarro was assassinated and, thus, began the fall of the colonial regime. Viceroyalty soon came into existence, and Lima, which was founded by Pizarro, became the center of viceroyalty. It soon became the aristocratic capital of Peru.

Shortly after, Peru was fighting for independence from colonial rule, and it was the landowners who took this initiative. On July 28, 1821, Peru was declared independent from Spanish colonial rule. After Peru became a republic, it faced many wars. These wars affected Peru negatively, and the government had to initiate social and economic reforms. A series of governments ruled Peru until present times, causing strife with political activities.

Peru provides detailed information on Peru, Peru Travel, Peru Tours, Peru Weather and more. Peru is affiliated with History Of Portugal.

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Christmas in Cusco Peru

Christmas in Cusco, Peru
By E. Ferrer

The celebration of Christmas in Cusco begins with the dressing-up of the city with coloured lights and garlands. These can be seen everywhere, from the balconies of the Monumental mountain to the streets around the main square, and donate the city with a warm festive ambiance.

On December 24th, hundreds of artisans coming from Cusco and the surrounding towns lay their blankets on the sidewalks -a custom in traditional Andean fairs- and sell carved Nativity handicrafts.

Held in Cusco's main square, Santuranticuy (which means saints for sale) is a temporary market whose origins go back to the days of the Spanish Vice-royalty. Today it's one of the largest arts-and-crafts fairs in the country.

The central figure of the Christmas fair is the Nio Manuelito, the Andean version of the newborn Jesus. Besides the baby Manuelito, you'll find the other Nativity figures -all with an Andean touch-, as well as saint's images. Much appreciated are the boxed scenes, known as Retablos, whose small figurines can represent almost every aspect of live, secular or sacred, though for the occasion you'll almost only find Nativity scenes.

Although the fair started as a Christmas specific market, over the years it expanded to include other goods like antiques, silverware, and ceramic objects brought from Pucar and Quinua. At night, street vendors sell a traditional hot and sweet rum punch called ponche, to warm up chilly visitors.

To facilitate both clients and artisans, the fair has been divided into sectors, each of which aggregates a speciality product. Among these you can find decorative ceramic, wood and bark crafts, miniatures and filigrees, silverware, stone crafts, stone sculptures, paintings from the Escuela Cusquea, and Nios Manuelitos.

Journalist, impenitent traveller, and aficionado cook, Ferrer is founder and editor of The Peru Guide.

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Why Learn Spanish in Cusco Peru

Why Learn Spanish in Cusco, Peru
By John Slocum

A few of my thoughts over my experience in Cusco to learn Spanish.

When you first arrive to this amazing city youre initially blown away with the colonial and Quechua architecture, some of the best examples of the two cultures mixing (or should I say colliding?) in all of Latin America. Of course, its a Latin American city and like any good Latin America city theres the incessant honking from the taxis and the exhaust fumes that can make you want to head for the hills but...good thing you can do just that!

I had arrived to Cursco to learn Spanish for 4 weeks and from the first day I knew there were lots of other things to do besides learn Spanish. On my walk to school in the morning I gazed down at the Plaza de Armas, over the tops of the buildings saying to myself that this city is breathtaking (literally! especially considering the altitude and the fumes from cars). Then as I turned to the corner I purchased for about .30 cents, two glasses of fresh-squeezed orange juice. I get it o go, meaning in a plastic baggie with a straw.

When I arrived to the school every morning ready to learn spanish, I would always find something new and interesting. The colorful textiles and the way the city is nestled into the surrounding mountains. Probably the most remarkable aspect of Cusco is its setting. You can easily escape the city and be on top of the world at Sacsayhuaman, pronounced Sexy Woman by gringo and local alike, in a mere 5 minutes. Up there you step back hundreds of years. You can take a horseback ride near the ruins or just stroll around taking in the impressive sites.

It takes a while to learn Spanish, after a week I was surprised to meet with students that had supposedly left Cusco but had fallen in love with the city and ended up staying much longer than just to learn Spanish. They said theyve tried to leave several times but the city has seeped into their bones. This place is not just all alpacas and cuy (the delicacy of Cusco - fried guinea pig). This place is just plain old fun. With a nightlife that rivals the major capitals of Latin America, there is always something happening at night. Many of the bars and clubs stay open until 12:00...in the afternoon that is; great to learn Spanish, not! The relaxing couch bars offer jazz, some bars offer live music, most clubs have DJs and sweaty dance floors. On most nights in Cusco you can meet people from all over the world that are there to learn Spanish, tour and even Peruvians making our experience to learn Spanish much richer.

I would like to focus on some issue, even though I went to learn Spanish, that where completely different than in my home country. Forget culture shock, how about showers that shock! Not bad shocks, just quick nips. I learned to only touch the electrical tape after a few showers since they use electrical heating devices to warm the water. Also, dont flush the toilet paper or in the case of the apartment I was in, you cant flush the toilet ...at least not without it making horrible shrieking whirly noises. The person in charge of my appartment had spent waiting for the plumber since last week to fix the toilet. He said the plumber had promised to come at 7pm. I guess they had meant 7pm some time in November after my deadline to learn Spanish in Cusco!!

At the same time, there is a lack of change in this city. Ive been denied movie tickets when I tried to pay for a 10 sol flick with a 100 sol note. You cant even think about getting into the taxi, which costs 2 soles, with anything bigger than a 5 sol coin. Even then you sometimes have to wait around while the taxi driver finds someone kind enough to change his coin. Having a 100 sol bill is usually like having no money at all. One time, having gone out with my classmates after we learn Spanish at the language school, I was buying a hat, and gave the seora a 50 sol note and then waited around for 15 minutes while she ran all over town to get my change. Other customers had come into the store and started asking me questions about merchandise. She had left me all alone to run her business, it was great to learn Spanish!

So...I drink my OJ from a plastic bag, I get into a shower that shocks me, still waiting to flush my toilet properly. All this you ask and I can still recommend this place with a smile? ABSOLUTELY, I wouldnt trade the opportunity to learn Spanish here for anything!!!

Just remember, when you arrive to Peru and your first impressions are of Lima, this is NOT indicative of the rest of Peru. - Happy traveling and make sure you learn Spanish, it comes quite handy!

Enjoy a free Spanish Phrase ebook: http://www.amerispan.com/spdownload - This 30-pager is great if you quickly want to learn Spanish phrases for travel. John Slocum is the president of AmeriSpan, a leader in immersion language programs and study abroad since 1993. 85 cities, 35 countries. 25,000 past participants. http://www.amerispan.com.

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Splendors of Peru Really Good Oportunity to Know Peru

Splendors of Peru, Really Good Oportunity to Know Peru
By Alex Fernandez

Peru is a great destinations in the last years many people travel to Peru, here some tips tour to discover the Land of the Incas. Upon the arrival into Lima the staff from Sun God Expeditions, took us to the hotel in exclusive zone of Lima in Miraflores for your overnight For the next day travel to Paracas: some three hours south of Lima. and stay at the Paracas Hotel to rest for the next day tour.

Early in the morning Ballestas Islands tour, These spectacular islands, eroded into many caves and arches, provide shelter for thousands of seabirds and hundreds of sea-lions. Although the islands fall just outside the Paracas National Reserve they are protected by separate legislation. The islands are home to over 150 species of marine bird including the Humboldt penguin, cormorants, boobies and pelicans. Even condors have been known to visit. On the shores can be seen large numbers of sea-lions and in the sea it is possible to encounter dolphins and even whales. After the boat tour, you will back to the mainland for an excursion to the Paracas National Reserve. Here you will visit several museums showing the natural history of Paracas and also the ancient Paracas culture in addition to the beautiful cathedral, a natural rock formation. In the afternoon to the bus terminal for the Royal Class Bus to Nazca (about 3 hours) Arrival and transfer to Nazca Lines hotel

Nazca: Flight tour over the enigmatic Nazca Lines; The Nazca lines are geoglyphs and geometric line clearings in the Peruvian desert. They were made by the Nazca people, who flourished between 200 BCE and 600 CE along rivers and streams that flow from the Andes. The desert itself runs for over 1,400 miles along the Pacific Ocean. The area of the Nazca art is called the Pampa Colorada (Red Plain). It is 15 miles wide and runs some 37 miles parallel to the Andes and the sea. Dark red surface stones and soil have been cleared away, exposing the lighter-colored subsoil, creating the lines. There is no sand in this desert. From the air, the lines include not only lines and geometric shapes, but also depictions of animals and plants in stylized forms. Some of the forms, including images of humans, grace the steep hillsides at the edge of the desert. Royal Class Bus to Arequipa. Arrival late night and to the Posada Monasterio hotel

Arequipa: Free morning. Afternoon city tour visiting the Chilina valley and the old San Lazaro district. General view of the city from the Yanahuara Belvedere, the Plaza de Armas and its Cathedral, the cloisters of La Compania Church, the Church and Square of San Francisco and the extraordinary Santa Catalina convent which is built from volcanic lava and dates from the 16th century.

Colca Canyon: Departure from Arequipa, passing near the thermal baths of Yura and climbing up towards the National Reserve of Pampa de Canahuas which is situated at 3,800m. The colors and scenery are spectacular as we pass endangered grazing Vicunas and ponds with Andean Geese. We can see many snow peaks and volcanoes from here. Winding down into the Colca, stay at the comfortable Colca Lodge. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Arequipa: After breakfast, early departure to reach the Cruz Del Condor viewpoint, a few kilometers before Cabanaconde, where the Colca Canyon starts. Here Andean Condors and other Birds of Prey, roost on inaccessible ledges and once hot air thermals have developed, produced by the burning Andean Sun, they circle out gaining height and provide stunning photographic opportunities. The Condors are big and one cannot help but be amazed by these creatures. Here you will see a fine view of the flight of the condors as well as of the depth of the mighty canyon. In the afternoon, return to Arequipa and hotel.

Puno: After breakfast, Royal Class Bus to Puno. Hotel on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

Lake Titicaca: After breakfast, a tour by boat to the islands of Uros and Taquile on Lake Titicaca. first stop are the floating reed islands of the Uros indigenous group who maintain houses and evens schools on these floating reed islands continuing to Taquile, where members of this self-supporting island will welcome you and offer a glimpse into their ancient traditions and customs. Lunch on the island and an opportunity for some spectacular views over the haunting beauty of Lake Titicaca. Night at one of the Amantani Islander's homes

Lake Titicaca: Early wake up to enjoy a spectacular sunrise over Lake Titicaca before heading back to Puno by boat. In the afternoon excursion to the Silluastani towers. These ancient funereal towers dating back to pre-inca times are examples of the most ancient cultures found on the altiplano. Accommodation at the hotel

Cusco: Early breakfast and tourist Bus to Cusco (Luxury Orient Express Train available), a long the way you will have stops and guided tours to the Incas sites of Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, and Pikillaqta. lunch at the restaurant in Sicuani. After arrival to Cusco hotel.

Cusco: Morning free. In the afternoon City tour of Cusco, and include: The Cathedral, Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun, the most important of Inca ceremonial sites). Later you will continue to the most important site of Sacsayhuaman, Tambomachay, Qenqo and Puca Pucara.

Sacred Valley: Leaving Cusco in the rear view mirror, travel by bus over a low pass then down into the famous Sacred Valley of the Incas. The scenery is unsurpassable, close and distant snow peaks glistening in the Sun. Visit the Ancient Pisaq market, where many of the local Indians sell their hand made textiles. Lunch at the local hacienda restaurant and continue to Ollantaytambo the major Inca temple / fortress. Probably built by the great Inca ruler, Pachacuti in the 1460s, it was the site of Hernando Pizzaros defeat by Manco Inca in 1536. Return to the hotel

Machu Picchu: Tourist class train to Machu Pichu. The 3 hour train journey passes through picturesque Andean scenery, passing traditional villages, Inca ruins and rushing rivers. descending 1300 meters through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and follow the Urubamba river until the final stop at Aguas Calientes. Afterward 20 minute bus ride up to Machu Picchu. Machu PICCHU! The famous lost city of the Inca is one of the most magical and mysterious places on Earth! Stand 2,430m above sea-level in the middle of a tropical mountain forest. In an extraordinarily beautiful setting, it was probably most amazing urban creation of the Inca Empire at its height, its giant walls, terraces and ramps seen as, if they have been cut naturally in the continuous rock escarpments. The natural setting on the eastern slopes of the Andes, encompasses the upper Amazon basin with its rich diversity of flora and fauna, the site is frequently shrouded in misty clouds pierced by the powerful equatorial Sun. Afterwards take the bus for your return to the Aguas Calientes for lunch. train back to Cusco.

Cusco: Leisurely day with plenty of opportunity for shopping.

Lima: flight to Lima and for your international flight.

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Overview of Peru for Travelers

Overview of Peru for Travelers
By Richard Monk

Peru is located on the upper west coast of South America. If you are considering Peru as a travel destination, following is an overview of the country.

Overview of Peru for Travelers

Historically, Peru was the location of the dominant early cultures in South America. The city of Caral has pyramid remains dated to between 2000 and 2600 BC, which may make it the oldest city in the world. Peru is also the home of the Nazca Lines, the football field size drawings in the ground that are only apparent from the air.

The Incas are a mysterious civilization, but one that was clearly dominant during its time. The Incas were based in modern day Peru. Although it was not a major city, Machu Picchu is the best known archeological remains of the Incas. It was discovered in 1911.

The Spanish defeated the Inca Empire in 1533, who remained in control for nearly 300 years. In 1821, Peru declared independence, but wasnt able to defeat the Spanish until 1824. In fact, Peru was the last Spanish colony in South America.

Peru has seen periods of relative stability and near civil war since gaining its independence. In the late 20th century, conflicts with the Shining Path and Tupac Amaru rebel groups resulted in as many as 70,000 people being killed. Peru has moved beyond such conflicts and is experiencing a period of strong stability and economic growth. In a stunning development for patriarchal South America, Peru elected Beatriz Merino as the first female prime minister on the continent in 2003.

Peru is an interesting climatic country because it contains stunning mountains, flat plains and over 1,500 miles of beaches on the Pacific Ocean. Figuring out what to take is entirely dependent on the part of the country you will visit. Travel to Lake Titicaca, one of the highest lakes in the world, and you will need to dress for warmth. Visit the dry desert in the east of the country, and you will be dressing just the opposite.

Modern Peru has a total population of 28 million people. Roman Catholic is the dominant language. The literacy rate is roughly 88 percent. After years of conflict, the country has suffered economically to the point that over 50 percent of the population lives below the poverty line. With stability returning, this situation is expected to improve.

Peru is one of the hottest travel destinations in South America. With the end of armed conflict, the chance to see Inca ruins should not be missed.

Richard Monk is with FactsMonk.com - a site with facts about everything. Visit us to read more about country facts and more facts about Peru.

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American's Going to Peru

American's Going to Peru
By Dennis Siluk

I am happy that Peru has so much tourism lately; when I started coming hereseven years ago (now my 9th time), it was one plane load at a time descending at the airport in Lima, now there are three or four, within a matter of minutes; coming in from Texas, Florida and George (not to mention Europe). Peruvians love Americans, but I fear the Americans are starting to be quite rude, belligerent, and down right pigs. It is almost daily I see this now; loud and rowdy Americans in the nice outdoor restaurants, having contests with eating Ginny pigs, and eating them like a cow would hay, shoving it down and screaming to the tops of their lungs, while on lookers cant believe their eyes; Peruvians have had a high regard for Americans, in a few more years, I think that will change.

For the most partas Ive already mentionedPeruvians have a high opinion for Americans, and many wish to be in their shoes, but I dont see this kind of behavior with other cultures coming to Peru, like Europeans, or Asians, or even South Americans visiting Peru, only Americans. It is not completely the young crowd, it is a mixture; they show indifference to those around them eating or doing whatever business they are doing.

I have written many articles on Peru, all positive, and I think this one can also be, we must, as Americans, remember, we are in another persons backyard, please act like youd expect them to act, should they visit us.

See Dennis' web site: http://dennissiluk.tripod.com

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The Peru travel tips

The Peru travel tips we offer here at Peru Travel Information are fairly straight-forward and logical. In fact, we'd expect that this advice would be pretty