DESTINATIONS IN PERU
Here you can find a description of the different regions in Peru:
HIGHLANDS
General information - Regions
The enormous mountain range of the Andes is almost 7500 km long
and winds its way South from Venezuela to Chile, spanning seven countries and
the whole South American continent. One of the most amazing parts
of these mountains lies in Peruvian territory. Offering breathtaking
views and landscapes, this is heaven-on-earth for all hikers and
trekkers as well as culturally and historically interested travellers.
Location
In Peru, the Andes separate the narrow coastal strip in the West
from the Amazon rainforest in the East, bordering Brasil and Bolivia.
In the South, the highlands have a width of as much as 300 km whereas
in the North, near the Ecuadorian border, they amount only to around
120 km in width. Three major mountain ranges, so-called 'cordilleras',
form both wide highland plains and deep valleys. Between the Western
and the Eastern cordillera you will find the highland plain "altiplano"
with the world famous Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable
lake (3,800 m.a.s.l.) and South America's largest inland water.
Hikers and trekkers especially appreciate the so-called Cordillera
Blanca in the Western Cordillera as well as the Cordillera Huayhuash,
which comprise the highest peaks of the Peruvian Andes, one of them
Huascarán, is at 6768 metres Peru's highest summit.
Climate
Generally, there are two seasons that are distinguished in the highlands. What counts
in this region is not the temperature but rather the rainfall. This is why
you speak of rainy and dry season and not of winter and summer.
Strong temperature differences and variations within a single day
can occur the whole year long and depend on the altitude and region
you are in.
Travelling season
Best season for a visit of the highlands is the dry season which
lasts from March/April to October/November (regional variation).
Days are usually sunny and dry with temperatures reaching 20 to
24°C. Nights on the other hand, are cold, especially in June
and July, and temperatures can drop below 0°C.
Heavy rainfalls (more than 1,000 mm) are typical for the rainy season
(November to April). Due to the sparse vegetation,
floods as well as landslides and mudflows (so-called 'huaycos')
can be caused by the rain and force tourists to change their travel
plans on short notice.
The whole year through we advise you to also take along warm clothes
as it may always get cold.
TOP
Read on for further information about the most beautiful destinations
in the Peruvian Andes!
Region Arequipa
Known as 'The Whie City' Arequipa lies at the foot of the snow-capped
volcano Misti. Being rich in history and architecture, this town
is also the ideal starting point for excursions to the world's second
deepest canyon, the Colca Canyon.
Follow up …
Region Lake Titicaca
You can explore Lake Titicaca by boat starting from the
city of Puno. In the vicinity of the city you can visit the monumental
burial towers of Sillustani, built by the mysterious Colla-people. Follow
up …
Region Cusco
Being America's archaeological capital, Cusco is the centre of the
Inca culture and home of their descendents, today's Quechua people.
Besides the world famous Inca citadel Machu Picchu, this regions
offers a handful of other interesting and exciting destinations
for excursions and day trips.
Follow up …
Region Huaraz
Huaraz is the perfect starting point for incredible treks and hikes
in the Cordillera Blanca and therefore Peru's "trekking capital".
The renowned archaeological site of Chavin de Huántar is
said to be the cradle of the pre-Columbian culture, as their art motifs transcended the ages through influencing other pre-Columbian civilizations art and design accross the continent.
Follow up …
Region Cajamarca
This charming town in the Northern Andes is known for its traditional
carnival celebrated every year in February/March. Thermal hot springs
allow for relaxation and spa treatments in the surroundings of the
city. You can also hike some of the ancient Inca path of the complex network of Qhapaq Ñan, while enjoying the amazing unspoiled
nature with its unique flora and fauna. Follow
up …
Region Chachapoyas
The region of Chachapoyas in the North of Peru is still one of the less well known destinations. It is said to
be a good tip for those travellers wishing to see an uncommercialised part of Peru, vibrant in both nature and history . Besides its fascinating
landscape, Chachapoyas is mostly known for its numerous archaeological
treasures. Follow up …
Region Central Highlands
Also the cities of Tarma, Huancavelica, Huancayo, Ayacucho and Abancay
are still among the lesser explored destinations in the Peruvian
Andes. Besides amazing landscapes, many diverse archaeological sites are among the assets that this region has to offer the traveller to Peru. Follow
up …
TOP
|
