Peru

Peru is a land of ancient wonders, breathtaking landscapes, and living culture. From the majestic peaks of the Andes to the mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu and the lush depths of the Amazon, Peru offers a journey through time and nature. Known as The Land of the Incas, it’s a place where vibrant traditions, world-renowned cuisine, and rich history come together to create an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re exploring colonial streets, highland villages, or sacred valleys, Peru invites you to discover its soul at every turn.

Why Peru?

Peru is a destination that offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you're drawn by the mystery of ancient ruins, the thrill of hiking through the Andes, or the flavors of its award-winning cuisine, Peru delivers unforgettable experiences. It’s a country where centuries-old traditions are still alive, where nature stuns at every turn—from the Sacred Valley to Lake Titicaca to the Amazon Rainforest. With its rich culture, warm hospitality, and diverse landscapes, Peru is as inspiring as it is unforgettable.

A young girl wearing a hat is standing next to a llama in Peru.

Land of the Incas & Ancient Civilizations.

Peru is home to some of the most advanced and fascinating ancient cultures in the Americas. Best known as the heart of the Inca Empire, it’s where you'll find the legendary Machu Picchu, the imperial city of Cusco, and centuries-old Incan trails that still connect mountain villages. But Peru’s history stretches even further—civilizations like the Moche, Nazca, and Chavín left behind stunning temples, mysterious geoglyphs, and intricate art that still captivates archaeologists today. Every region holds traces of a powerful and enduring past.

Why Peru?

Peru is a destination that offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you're drawn by the mystery of ancient ruins, the thrill of hiking through the Andes, or the flavors of its award-winning cuisine, Peru delivers unforgettable experiences. It’s a country where centuries-old traditions are still alive, where nature stuns at every turn—from the Sacred Valley to Lake Titicaca to the Amazon Rainforest. With its rich culture, warm hospitality, and diverse landscapes, Peru is as inspiring as it is unforgettable.

A young girl wearing a hat is standing next to a llama in Peru.

Land of the Incas & Ancient Civilizations.

Peru is home to some of the most advanced and fascinating ancient cultures in the Americas. Best known as the heart of the Inca Empire, it’s where you'll find the legendary Machu Picchu, the imperial city of Cusco, and centuries-old Incan trails that still connect mountain villages. But Peru’s history stretches even further—civilizations like the Moche, Nazca, and Chavín left behind stunning temples, mysterious geoglyphs, and intricate art that still captivates archaeologists today. Every region holds traces of a powerful and enduring past.

Featured Itineraries

A mountain covered in clouds with the ruined city of Machu Picchu in the background.

Machu Picchu & the Amazon

Abercrombie & Kent Tour

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A river runs through a lush green valley surrounded by mountains in the Amazon Rainforest of Peru.

Upper Amazon

Lindblad River Cruise

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The Peruvian Culture

Peruvian culture is a rich blend of Indigenous heritage, Spanish influence, and modern creativity. From the colorful textiles woven in Andean villages to the vibrant music and dance seen at festivals like Inti Raymi, tradition is woven into everyday life. Quechua and Aymara languages are still spoken in many regions, and centuries-old customs are passed down through generations. Whether through food, art, or celebration, Peru’s culture is deeply rooted in the land and proudly alive in its people.

A woman is weaving a piece of fabric on a loom in Peru.

Indigenous Traditions

Peru’s Indigenous communities preserve a way of life deeply rooted in the rhythms of the land and ancient wisdom. Ceremonies honoring natural elements—like the sun, mountains (apus), and Pachamama—are still practiced today. Traditional dress, vibrant with meaning and symbolism, varies from region to region and often reflects ancestral identity. Agricultural rituals, sacred coca leaf offerings, and spiritual festivals are vital expressions of community and continuity. These enduring traditions connect the modern world with Peru’s ancient past in a way that is both spiritual and practical.

Festivals and Celebrations

Peru comes alive through its colorful festivals and time-honored celebrations, many of which blend Indigenous customs with Catholic traditions. Events like Inti Raymi, the ancient Incan Festival of the Sun, and Carnaval, filled with dance, water fights, and costumes, reflect the country’s rich cultural fusion. In cities and villages alike, music, traditional dress, and folk dances turn the streets into vibrant expressions of joy and identity. Each festival tells a story—of ancestry, faith, and the enduring spirit of the Peruvian people.

Art and Handicrafts

Peruvian art and handicrafts are a vibrant reflection of the country’s Indigenous roots and cultural diversity. From the intricate textiles of the Andes—woven with natural dyes and traditional patterns—to hand-carved gourds, silver jewelry, and colorful pottery, each piece tells a story passed down through generations. Artisans in regions like Cusco, Ayacucho, and Puno preserve centuries-old techniques, blending creativity with cultural identity.

Featured Destinations

The Story of The Inca

The Inca Empire, or Tawantinsuyu, emerged in the early 15th century and quickly became the most powerful civilization in pre-Columbian South America. With its capital in Cusco, the Inca expanded across a vast region stretching from modern-day Colombia to Chile. They developed advanced agricultural techniques, built vast road networks, and constructed remarkable cities like Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuamán, and Pisac—all without the use of iron, wheels, or written language. Their society was highly organized, with a centralized government, a labor-based economy, and a deep spiritual connection to nature. Though the empire fell to Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, the Inca’s cultural legacy continues to shape Peru’s identity today.

Three women in traditional Peruvian clothing are standing in front of a stone wall in Peru.
A woman is weaving a piece of fabric on a loom in Peru.
Three young girls are wearing traditional Peruvian clothing with a llama in Peru.

The Mysterious Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are a collection of massive ancient drawings carved into the desert floor of southern Peru. Spanning hundreds of square miles, these geoglyphs depict figures like hummingbirds, monkeys, and spirals—created by the Nazca civilization between 500 BCE and 500 CE. Despite centuries of study, their exact meaning remains a mystery, sparking theories about rituals, astronomy, and communication with the gods. Best seen from the sky, the Nazca Lines continue to captivate archaeologists and travelers with their scale, precision, and enduring enigma.

A plate of traditional Peruvian food with a bottle in the background in Peru.

Traditional Dishes

  • Ceviche

    Ceviche is Peru’s most iconic dish, celebrated for its fresh, bold flavors. Made with raw fish marinated in freshly squeezed lime juice, it’s cured with citrus rather than cooked with heat. The dish is typically mixed with red onion, chili peppers, and cilantro, and served with sweet potato and corn—creating a perfect balance of acidity, spice, and sweetness. Recognized as a national treasure, ceviche reflects Peru’s coastal heritage and is a must-try for any food-loving traveler.

  • Rocoto Relleno

    Rocoto Relleno is a beloved dish from Peru’s southern city of Arequipa, known for its bold flavor and fiery heat. It features a spicy red rocoto pepper—similar in appearance to a bell pepper but much hotter—stuffed with a savory mix of ground meat, onions, spices, and sometimes cheese. The pepper is then baked and often served with a creamy potato or cheese sauce. Both rich and spicy, Rocoto Relleno is a true reflection of Peru’s regional culinary flair.

  • Sopa Criolla

    Sopa Criolla is a comforting Peruvian soup known for its rich, hearty flavor. Made with thin slices of beef, noodles, and a savory broth flavored with garlic, onions, and mild chili peppers, it's finished with a touch of evaporated milk for creaminess. Often topped with a poached or fried egg, this classic dish is a favorite in Peruvian home cooking—perfect for warming up on a cool day.

  • Pachamanca

    Pachamanca is one of Peru’s most ancient and traditional dishes, dating back to Incan times. Meaning "earth oven" in Quechua, it’s a celebratory meal where marinated meats—such as lamb, pork, or chicken—are slow-cooked underground with hot stones, alongside potatoes, corn, and Andean herbs. The result is a tender, smoky feast infused with earthy flavors. More than just a meal, Pachamanca is a communal ritual that brings people together to honor the land and its bounty.

  • Cuy Frito

    Cuy Frito is a traditional Andean dish featuring fried guinea pig, a staple protein in Peru for centuries. The cuy is typically seasoned, then fried whole until crispy on the outside and tender inside. Served with potatoes, corn, or spicy sauces, it’s especially popular in the highlands and often prepared for special occasions. Though it may be unfamiliar to visitors, Cuy Frito is a deeply rooted cultural dish that reflects Peru’s ancestral culinary heritage.

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