Peru in South America
This third largest South American country is embraced by Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia and Chile and meets the Pacific Ocean at the west. The exotic Machu Picchu, the source of the Amazon River and the Andes Mountains are a treasure to this country. January to March can be said as the wet season throughout. But the coastal regions which are hot and humid in that time will remain cool during the rest of the months. The climate can be designated as varied as it differs according to the different regions.
Travel to Peru The airlines that serve Peru’s travellers are TACA Peru and LAN Peru. Other international names that are available to meet Peru’s international demand are Air Canada, Air France, Alitalia, Avianca, KLM, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Air Madrid, LAB and more.
Jorge Chavez International Airport is the international aerodrome in Lima – the capital of Peru. It is located at about 16 km from the city and taxis are at hand to transport to the city. The travelling time will be twenty five minutes. Several facilities like duty free shops, Internet facilities, currency exchanging facilities, banks, bars, restaurants are accessible at the airport.
Attractions:
Machu Picchu This is undoubtedly one of the most wonderful looking places in the world and the most loved spot for tourists. It is also an important archeological site in South America. Machu Picchu – the nicely preserved pre-Columbian Inca ruin in situated in the Urubamba Valley. It is about 70 km from Cusco. The place holds within itself temples for Inca deities and a palace that can be found amongst a courtyard. This mesmerising location holds a sanctuary in which landscapes are highlighted. Flora and fauna here may interest may you and orchids glorify the place. Perfection can be found in the interesting classic architectural style and stone walls. You can reach this spot from the La Paz international airport or take a domestic flight from Lima.
Canon del Cotahuasi This is said to be the deepest canyon in the world. It bears lovely scenery with it. It also holds several traditional and rural settlements that are used by travellers now. Hire an experienced tourist guide or a reliable tourism operator to this spot. You can go for a visit or take a trekking trip here.
Language Spanish and Quechua are the official languages of Peru. Spanish is the language widely spoken throughout while Quechua is mainly spoken in a few of the places of Andes. In the department of Puno, in altiplano – a highland plain Aymara is also spoken. Other languages include North Bolivian Quechua and Chinese. Languages like Aguaruna, Arabela, Bora, different dialects of Aymara, Capanahua, Culina, Huambisa, Jebero, Nanti, dialects of Quechua Secoya and more can also be heard in the Peruvian atmosphere. English is familiar among the younger generation and in tourists spot it is accessible with English.
Shopping Peru is one of the best places for shoppers. In Lima you can get the best quality of handicrafts. Other things that might interest you in the capital are copper ware, silver products, intricate gold stuff and clothing. Woven crafts, Indian masks, Textile products like woven tapestries and alpaca garments can be procured at a range of prices. Alpaca wool sweaters and alpaca and llama rugs are other attractive Peruvian handicrafts. A variety of handicraft shops and galleries in Miraflores and Pueblo Libre sell attractive handcraft products that are based on the local culture. At regateos and beach vendors bargaining is a common practise.
The official currency of Peru is New Sol. US Dollars is the best currency to exchange. It is also changed in hotels, banks and restaurants along with the authorised exchangers. Other currencies have a limited acceptance in Lima and in other parts of the country it is not possible. ATMs are also available. Tourists are advised not to exchange their money with the street vendors as it is not a reliable process. As for the credit cards, all major international cards are acceptable. Check with your credit card company for more details. Banks accept Traveller’s cheques but it is a slow process in areas other than Lima and to avoid additional charges you have to carry them in US Dollars.
Destinations
Lima This is the capital of Peru. It sits on a desert coast by the bay of Lima in the Pacific Ocean. The climate here is mild. Textile, paper, food products and paper are produced here. A large number of Asian restaurants are available in Lima. The beaches here attract a lot of tourists during summer. Various attractions including the Historic centre of Lima which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site can also be seen.
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