Top Cultural Experiences for a Peru Trip

There are huge cultural riches that are now found across Peru, and much of this is thanks to the steady waves of immigration that have been built on the foundations of ancient civilization. This unique stamp that has been left on the country makes it a great place to visit, and while many people focus on Machu Picchu there are so many other cultural things to enjoy.

Two particularly world famous gems include the Lake Titicaca communities and a visit to the vibrant Amazon rainforest. Separated by hundreds of miles and thousands of years of human history, it is difficult to comprehend how both cultures belong to the same country - just another testimony to Peru's astonishing cultural diversity.

Commune with Nature in the Amazon Jungle

Many foreigners forget that nearly 60% of the country of Peru is vast, dense Amazon rainforest. Though only 5% of the overall population lives in this part of the country, it is one of the most biologically diverse areas of the world: butterflies, insects, mammals and birds are what make this place the unique and unforgettable experience that it really is. The cities of Puerto Maldonado, near Cusco in the South, and Iquitos, in the North are the most popular places to start a journey into the jungle. In both areas, a wide variety of secluded lodges offer multi-day packages and guided activities to bring the visitor close this wild ecosystem.

The accommodations and packages range from high-end luxury to rustic, family-run operations. Almost all will transport you via motorized canoe from the major town to your quiet lodging. Tour companies large and small cater to families, spa-lovers, birders, adventure enthusiasts, amateur scientists and more. Do a little research to find a lodge that fits your energy and interests.

Independent travelers may also be able to hire boats and guides to design their own trip. Pack your bug spray and your rain jacket and prepare to be overwhelmed (in a good way) by the nature, the food and the way of life in the Amazon rainforest.

Navigate the Highest Lake in the World at Titicaca

Of course, no trip to Peru is complete without seeing the magnificent and strange Lake Titicaca. Perched at 12,500 feet above sea level, this famous body of water is the highest commercially navigable lake in the world and the largest in South America. This is on both the Peruvian and Bolivian borders. The city of Puno sits on the Peruvian side of the lake and is especially famous for the hundreds of traditional dances and music groups which can be seen during big festivals, particularly the Festival de la Virgen de la Candelaria, or Virgin of the Candles, in February.

For most people, the quintessential Lake Titicaca experience is getting out on the water and visiting one or more of the islands that dot the lake. Accessible from Peru, Taquile and Amantani are a great way to see traditional life with limited housing and no cars - only lodging available is with families; reserve these homestays in advance through a travel service. Nearby Uros is a collection of floating islands made of a local totora reeds that have become world famous. Houses, boats and of course handicrafts and souvenirs are also made of the reeds.

Lake Titicaca is considered sacred and some say it was the birthplace of the Inca. Important pre-Inca and Inca ruins can be visited on the mainland and the island of Taquile. This immense lake on the majestic South American plane has a history and culture like no other place on earth.


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