Nature is one of the best arts of God. There is no heaven on earth but you can glimpse pieces of it through nature. And if you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere.
Peru is such a land of nature filled with resources and beauty. It is the third-largest country on the central-western coast of South America facing the Pacific Ocean and is home to different species of flora and fauna. It also boasts the Andes mountain, along with a long rich coastline with complex ocean currents and the Amazon Rainforest. Of the 117 life zones of the world, Peru abounds with 84. Some of these are endemic, unable to be found anywhere else in the world.
To discover the best natural attractions in Peru we are willing to overview of Peruvian culture, background, and its natural resources to meet the significant essence all at once.
Geography
Peru lies wholly in the Southern Hemisphere, its northernmost extreme reaching 1.8 minutes of latitude or about 3.3 kilometers south of the equator. Countries bordering Peru are Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Columbia, and Ecuador.
Peru’s landscape is divided into three main regions: the coast, the narrow coastal plains between the Ocean and the Andes, the highlands (sierra) with the Andes mountain range and the Andean Plateau, and the jungle, with the vast plain to the east on the other side covered by the Amazon rainforest.
Population and language
Peru has a population of more than 31 million inhabitants. The capital and largest city is Lima. Principal languages are Spanish, Quechua, and Aymara.
Already we can sense the diversity full of resources and wonders of Peru. So why not take a brief glimpse of its background and resources?
History
Peruvian independence was declared in 1821. Ancient Peru was the seat of several prominent Andean civilizations, most significantly that of the Incas whose empire was defeated by the Spanish conquistadors in 1553. The remaining Spanish forces after the liberation were defeated in 1824.
Natural Resources
Peru is a beautiful region remarkably enriched with natural resources that benefit the country as well. Copper, silver, gold, petroleum, timber, fish, iron, coal, phosphate, potash, hydropower, and natural gas abound.
The significant cultural diversity of Peru attracts many travelers unable to resist their curiosity.
Diversity in Peru
Peru was home to various indigenous groups of wide cultural diversity before its colonization by Spain. Peru is a multiethnic country with a mix of indigenous traditions and European colonial elements, as well as African and Asian influences; it is truly a rich mix of wide-ranging cultures and traditions.
However, along with the many festivals and events throughout the year taking place in Peru, there are countless natural and architectural wonders that attract visitors from all over the world.
The Best Natural Wonders of Peru
Like we said earlier, Peru is a land of diversity and natural attractions; travelers from every corner of the world tend to visit this extraordinarily attractive land of wonders to soothe their eyes.
Natural regions in Peru are full of history, culture, beauty, and adventure. Peru is also a country with a full spectrum of possibilities for travelers. The ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu is one of the highlights of any trip to South America, but there is much more to discover throughout Peru.
The diversity of the landscape, the people, and the experiences here make Peru one of the most unique destinations. So let’s discuss the top tourist attractions in Peru!
1. Machu Picchu
One of the seven new wonders of the world is Machu Picchu for its fascinating views and hiking and trekking facilities. The Inca city of Machu Picchu is one of the most dramatic settings of a ruined city anywhere in the world. Standing near the caretaker’s hut, looking out over Machu Picchu, the jungle-covered mountains, and the river far below, you can imagine why the Incas chose this place to build their city. It is a 15th century Inca citadel, located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru, on a 2430 meter mountain ridge. Words can scarcely describe how majestic this ancient city still looks. The surrounding area offers one of the most beautiful views to see. The whole complex is a wonder that defies modern-day engineering. Prepare to be amazed by this wonder whether you like history, archaeology, engineering, science, or just the thrill of adventure.
2. Sun Gate
Sun gate, the end of the Inca trail, is surrounded by towering mountains on one side and a canyon a few hundred meters deep. After a 30-40 minute slow consistent walk from Machu Picchu, you will reach Sun Gate. The gate likely would have been protected by the Incan military. The altitude of the climb to Sun Gate from Machu Picchu is 290 meters along with a great archaeological site with windows and gates that are held up by terraces. It requires a difficult hike.
3. Colca Canyon
From green mosaic valleys to snow-capped volcanoes, narrow canyons, and beautiful dresser landscapes, Colca has a lot to offer. Colca Canyon is an impressive sight and the best place to witness giant condors in South America.
4. Lake Titicaca
Located in the Puno region, the Titicaca National region is one of the most popular natural attractions in Peru. Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. Don’t miss the chance to see Peru’s oldest surviving civilizations and visit some of the ancient Incan communities that live life so different from ours.
5. Reserva National Pacaya Samira
A great place to see animals and wildlife. The biggest of all the reserves in Peru, it is a truly beautiful part of the world.
6. Las Ballestas
The Ballestas Islands are a group of small islands within the Paracas District of the Pisco Province on the south coast of Peru.
From an ecotourism point of view, the Ballestas Islands is probably the best known along the Peruvian coast.
7. Lachay Hills
Lachay National Reserve is a protected area in the region of Lima, Peru. It is a great place of lush green in the middle of a desert full of colorful flowers. It is a great hiking place as well.
8. Nevado Ishinca
The mountain’s name means “snow-covered mountain.” It is located in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range in the Peruvian Andes, specifically in the Ishinca Valley region, and has a summit elevation of 5,530 meters. It is an easy and accessible mountain for beginners and intermediates.
9. Sayacmarca
The origin of Sayacmarca is pre-Inca, but it was definitely a significant point in the Incan period as well. It is a fortress with a perfectly preserved canal system that provides Sayacmarca with water.
10. Yumbilla falls
It is a waterfall located near the town of Cuispes, in the northern Peruvian regions of Amazonas. It has been internationally known since late 2007 due to a geographical survey. You can take a beautiful walk to the falls through the forest of Cuispes. There are three waterfalls coming down all from the mountain tops. It is a beautiful experience!
Final Thoughts
There are still more natural attractions that words cannot describe. We just tried to give you an overall view of Peru’s natural attractions and diversity of ethnic cultures. You can easily find more information on the rich history and cultural locations of Peru, but this article has equipped you with the most important knowledge for your Peruvian adventure.
