From Machu Picchu to the wonders of Cusco, Peru has a plethora of things for you to enjoy. Here we give you the best of a great country.
When visiting this country for pleasure, you’ll love it. If you’re going to be there on business, they’ll try your patience like you never ever thought possible. Welcome to Peru.
These maybe Covid times though thankfully life is slowly getting back to normal and according to experts we are about halfway there.
If you’re traveling to this great country, be prepared with a negative test that has been carried out no longer than 72 hours before your departure. You will also need to sign an affidavit.
The Peruvians are friendly, care-free and a joyous lot, always ready to help a tourist. However, only about 8% of them speak English and most of them are young and in Lima so be ready with your translator.
Even though Spanish and Aymara are the official languages, most speak only Spanish and much slower than the Spaniards. If you know a few words or useful sentences, you’ll comprehend more easily.
To Machu Picchu
Most of us think of Machu Picchu and the colonial city of Cusco when we think of Peru.
Surely, these justifiably have a major drawing power.
At the same time, there’s much more to the country. This land of the Inca empire which incidentally was much larger than the Roman empire and aside from the famed Machu Picchu and Cusco, Peru offers you beaches, desert, rain forests, mountains and valleys.
In fact, the deepest canyon – Cotahuasi Canyon, is here. It’s about twice as deep compared with the better known Grand Canyon.
You will also find the highest sand dune – Cerro Blanco – in Peru. It’s almost 1,200 meters high.
The Rest of Peru
The best time to visit are the dry months between May and October with the history of the country taking you back 5,000 years.
The national animal is Vicuna which belongs to the camel family and is a miniature version of that animal. You will see it in several colours. The wool from this animal is thought to be the most luxurious compared with any other.
The national dish is roasted guinea pig. Sold everywhere mostly as street food. Speaking of tradition, a Peruvian poncho takes months to weave. Most people buy it once in their lives and make it last.
Potatoes are said to have come originally from here. There are around 3,000 varieties.
The Incas were astronomically advanced. The major streets in Cusco are in alignment with the stars depending upon the time of the year. The Sun Temples at Machu Picchu are aligned to perfection with the Sun.
The country is rich in minerals and among other products, exports large quantities of copper ore, gold, refined petroleum, zinc ore and refined copper. Additionally, they export seafood and fish products.
Dos and Don’ts
If on business a casual blazer is acceptable. However, wearing a business suit for men would be in good taste. Any good attire for women will do fine.
If you’re scheduled to meet someone do not expect that person to be on time. In fact, he or she can be late by an hour and more. If you’re unlucky, the person may not turn up at all. Be patient and follow-up if this happens to you.
If there is pleasure, it’s all enjoyment. Have fun.
Do visit Machu Picchu, it’s an experience of a lifetime.
Do visit Cusco. It will be very pleasant. At the same time, do not miss out on all the splendour of natural beauty, rainforests, the mountains, the valleys and even the beaches.
Inca cola which you will see everywhere is an acquired taste. The Peruvians are proud of it. Do not criticise.
Chicha, a drink made of purple corn, is served often before the meal. Try enjoying it.
If you’re going to be spending New Year in Peru, there’s a good chance you will receive the traditional gift of yellow underwear. Wear it inside out and at the stroke of midnight take it off and turn it right side out and wear it again. It’s meant to bring good luck.
Remember to buy a Vicuna poncho or at least the wool and get it knitted in your home country.
Enjoy the country, the people will receive you well.
Another mountainous nation for you to travel to, here is Bhutan.
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