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Peru

7

Reasons To
Visit Peru

  • Andean scenery

    The Andes in Peru are home a vast array of micro-climates and eco-systems. Deserts, canyons, high altiplano, lush cloudforest, fertile valleys, snow capped peaks and glaciers, and not to forget classic Inca terracing systems, are all common landscapes that can be seen on a trip within the country.

    Andean scenery

  • Walking and trekking

    Beyond the renowned famous Inca trail to Machu Picchu, southern Peru offers dozens of treks and walks. Whether you are seeking a one day walk through Andean villages or a 10 day trek along less-trodden trails then there will be an option for you. Whilst most treks involve basic camping, there are also some lodge to lodge options for those seeking a little more comfort.

    Walking and trekking

  • Archaeological sites

    Machu Picchu is the obvious draw of any trip to Peru, but there are many more Inca and pre-Incan sites to interest archaeologists and historians at all levels. From the Sacred Valley of the Inca’s to the lesser explored pre-Incan ruins on the northern coast and the vast pre-Incan city of Kuelap, Peru has the greatest array of sites in South America.

    Archaeological sites

  • Colonial architecture

    Peru has many fine examples of colonial architecture throughout the country. Lima, Arequipa and Cuzco have well documented and beautifully-maintained historical centres that take visitors back to the Spanish era.

    Colonial architecture

  • Inca Trail

    The draw for trekkers from across the globe, the Classic Inca Trail takes walkers on a 4-day adventure through the high Andes and past a huge number of small Inca sites, all the way to Machu Picchu. Diversifying in recent years, the trail can offer options for all abilities, budgets and timescales. Alternative Inca trails also provide the opportunity to get away from the mainstream and provide varied levels of comfort.

    Inca Trail

  • Machu Picchu

    The jewel in the Inca crown set high on a plateau in the Andes. Breath-takingly beautiful the site rarely disappoints. The trick to exploring these majestic ruins is in the planning process, which is where our country specialists come in.

    Machu Picchu

  • Rainforest

    Easily accessible from Cuzco, the southern Peruvian rainforest has a number of simple lodges, catering for guests who are looking for their first Amazon experience through to the ultimate wildlife enthusiasts. Alternatively, from the northern city of Iquitos, travellers can choose from a number of cruise boats into the pristine Pacaya Samiria Reserve.

    Rainforest

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Excursions in Peru: Sipan & the Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum

Built by the Mochica culture (200 to 600AD) this is where the tomb of the Lord of Sipan was discovered. The gold-laden tomb is considered to be the richest and one of the most important archaeological discoveries in the last 30 years in the Americas.

New Sipan museum, Chiclayo

Sipan & the Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum

Chiclayo, Peru
  • Culture & History

In the morning visit Sipan, 33km south east of Chiclayo through roads flanked by extensive sugar-cane plantations. Built by the Mochica culture (200 to 600AD) this is where the tomb of the Lord of Sipan was discovered. The gold-laden tomb is considered to be the richest and one of the most important archaeological discoveries in the last 30 years in the Americas.

The funerary grave, on a platform in front of two monumental pyramids, contained a fantastic sarcophagus ornamented in gold and silver, symbolising the nobel's religious and military standing. All the removed pieces are now found in the new Royal Tombs of Sipan museum. However, a replica tomb remains on the site.

In the afternoon you travel to the town of Lambayeque to visit the Royal Tombs of Sipan museum where many of these riches are displayed. It represents possibly one of the most important archaeological findings of recent times. The complex houses artefacts from the most illustrious rulers of the Mochica culture including the Lord of Sipan, the old lord of Sipan and the Priest as well as many of their servants and guards.

The museum itself resembles a truncated pyramid made up of five prisms which are laid diagonally and demonstrate replicas of the Royal emblems of the Lord of Sipan. The red and yellow colours which decorate the building are similar to the ochre colours the Mochicas used in their decoration.

The purpose of the museum’s architectural design is to recreate the spirit of the Mochica temples and to serve as a fully functional museum as well as a mausoleum for the Lord of Sipan and his companions. It was inaugurated in 2002 and is one of the most sophisticated museums in Latin America.

Further reading:
PeruWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout PeruCountry Guides

Other countries in South America:
ArgentinaBoliviaBrazilChileColombiaEcuadorParaguayThe Falkland IslandsThe Galapagos IslandsUruguayVenezuela

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