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Peru’s National Tree

Peru’s national tree is the cinchona, and if you’ve heard of it before then it’s probably because the bark of this tree is used to produce quinine. Quinine is used as a muscle relaxant, but is perhaps best known for being one of the main ingredients of tonic water and thus responsible for that bitter taste that you get in a gin and tonic. The ingredient is also the reason that gin and tonic glows in the dark under a black light. You’ll find that cinchona trees are fairly easy to spot when walking Peru  as they have distinct white, pink or red blossoms that are almost tubular in appearance.

Peru’s National Animal

Llamas are synonymous with Peru so most people wrongly assume that the llama is in fact the country’s national animal. However, Peru’s national animal is actually the vicuna, which is very llama-like in appearance. The animal is believed to be the wild ancestor of today’s domesticated alpacas and even features on the Peruvian coat of arms. Like alpacas, which are bred for their coats, the hair of the vicuna is widely sought after, particularly as the animal can only be shorn every three years. During the Incan civilization, the coat of the vicuna was so revered that only Incan royalty were allowed to wear garments made from the hair.

Vicuna can be found all over South America, but when walking Peru’s Andes you’ll see the highest population of these animals.

Peru’s National Flower

Peru’s national flower is the cantuta, a red tubular flower often found in the highlands of the Andes or the Yungas. The flower is also the national flower of Bolivia as it reflects the colours of the national flag.

There is an Incan legend associated with the cantuta that tells the tale of two prosperous kings both annoyed at the wealth of the other. Eventually these two kings attacked each other and both became mortally wounded in the battle. The two kings asked their sons to seek vengeance on one another after their death and the family feud continued.

Once again a bloody battle ensued and, like their fathers, both sons became mortally wounded. However, on their death-beds they generously forgave each other and asked that their servants place them side by side on the green grass of the battlefield.

The legend continues that the Goddess of fertility appeared beside the two kings and told them that they shouldn’t have suffered from their father’s unjustified enmity. To punish their fathers, two stars fell from the sky and became the highest peaks in Andes and the cantuta bloomed as a symbol of the people’s unity, bearing the colour of the two kings (red and yellow), with green standing for hope.

Peru’s National Bird

When walking Peru why not try a spot of ornithology too? Peru’s national bird is the brightly coloured and joyfully named, cock-of-the-rock. The bird has a stunning head-dress of framed orange and red feathers that are reminiscent of the fringes that the Incas used to wear as a badge of rank.

The birds are found in tropical and sub-tropical forests close to rocky areas, where they commonly build their nests.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While walking Peru with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

This article was provided by LeadGenerators – the smartest SEO agency in London, and the proud host of a series of Internet Marketing training seminars and Social Media breakfasts.

What are the Nazca Lines?

The Nazca Lines are a series of gigantic figures engraved into the Peruvian desert surface, that can only been seen from the air. These lines run for 37 miles and comprise of 26 figures that range from llamas and dogs, to spiders, spirals and killer whales. These lines were made by the Nazca people, a civilization that flourished between 200BC and 600AD.

How were the Nazca Lines Built?

When you’re walking Peru, you’ll find that there is no sand in this area of the Peruvian desert. Instead, the landscape consists of dark-red surface stones, under which lies lighter-coloured subsoil. To make the Nazca Lines, the red surface has been scraped away to reveal the light colour underneath. Scientists believe that the creation of these lines had to be a communal effort stretching out over hundreds of years.

Weren’t they built by aliens?

The sheer size of the Nazca Lines, and the fact that no-one really knows the purpose of them has led many to believe that they were in fact built by aliens. Many academics have put forward the notion that the Nazca lines formed an airfield for alien spacecraft. However, this doesn’t really explain why the pictures of a llama, hummingbird and a dog were used, nor does it concern itself with the reason why aliens would need 37 miles of runway to themselves.

The reason that this theory has surfaced is because few people believe that primitive races, like the Aztecs and Mayans, had the tools or intelligence to create such a project. However, the fact that between them these races created the calendar, universal education, popcorn and chocolate should be proof enough that they didn’t however need alien help.

Why Were the Nazca Lines Built?

They may be fascinating to look at on your Peru walking holiday, but no-one really knows why the Nazca Lines were built. There have been various theories and whilst you’ve heard the theory about the alien airfield, academics and anthropologists are still researching what they believe to be the reason for these lines.

When Georg Von Breunig examined the lines, he found that they had been worn by continuous running. This led him to believe that the lines were used for running races in what could possibly have been a ritual for the Gods.

The most common theory is that the lines are in fact some gigantic astronomical calendar that shows various alignments that may have been useful for planting and harvesting purposes.

How can I see the Nazca Lines?

The lines are located in the Nazca Desert, which is an eight hour bus journey from the capital of Lima. Most people choose to visit the area after they’ve taken a tour of Machu Picchu, or just before walking Peru’s Inca Trail. When you reach Nazca you’ll find that flights over the Nazca Lines are very easy to arrange, as it is the alternative option of taking a hot-air balloon over the desert. With a good pair of binoculars you’ll be able to spot a few of the Nazca Lines from the town’s watchtower, but it’s only from the sky that the true beauty of the Nazca Lines can be experienced. Once seen never forgotten!

About The Author:

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While walking Peru with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

This article was provided by LeadGenerators – the smartest SEO agency in London, and the proud host of a series of Internet Marketing training seminars and Social Media breakfasts.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

This article was provided by LeadGenerators – the smartest SEO agency in London, and the proud host of a series of Internet Marketing training seminars and Social Media breakfasts.

What languages do they speak in Peru?

When walking Peru you’ll come across a whole range of different languages and dialects. Spanish and Quechan are the two official languages of the country. Although when you pass through the Lake Titicaca area you’ll hear Aymara spoken. In the jungle areas many different dialects are spoken, but English is widely spoken in the tourist areas of the country.

Do I need a visa to travel to Peru?

If you hold a British, Australian, Canadian, American or EU passport then you won’t need a visa to travel to Peru, unless you’re a Latvian national. You will need a return ticket though and at least six months remaining in your passport.

What is the Peruvian currency?

When walking Peru you’ll be buying your souvenirs in New Sol (PEN). There is roughly 4.1 PEN to 1 GBP. However, US dollars are also widely used and accepted in the major tourist areas. All major credit cards are accepted but outside of Lima and the tourist areas usage is somewhat limited. Traveller’s cheques are also limited outside of Lima.

What vaccinations do I need to travel to Peru?

Vaccinations are set to change at short notice, so it’s important to check the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website at least two months before your date of travel. Most inoculations need to be taken at least eight weeks before you travel, so make sure you’re up-to-date. At the moment the Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid inoculations are the only ones needed for travel in Peru. A yellow fever vaccination is also required if you’re planning on visiting the jungle areas, but is not needed for travellers only visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Can I drink the water in Peru?

No, the water in Peru isn’t safe to drink and it is recommended that guests only drink bottled water, which is widely available.

Is it safe to eat meat and dairy in Peru?

Whilst walking Peru visitors should avoid eating dairy products that have been made from unboiled milk. This shouldn’t be a problem as pasteurised milk is widely available in most hotels and guest houses. As in all countries, visitors should only eat meat and fish that has been well cooked.

Do I need to tip in Peru?

Most restaurants will automatically add a service charge of 10% to your bill. However, additional tips of 5-10% are expected in better restaurants, whilst smaller restaurants generally appreciate you just rounding up the bill.

What’s the time difference in Peru?

GMT -5 is Peru’s time zone.

What kind of plug socket will I need when walking Peru?

Whilst walking Peru you’ll need to bring a 220v standard Continental Europe or Europlug plug socket. Both these plug sockets are widely used on the European continent so should be fairly easy to get hold of within the United Kingdom.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While walking Peru with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

This article was provided by LeadGenerators – the smartest SEO agency in London, and the proud host of a series of Internet Marketing training seminars and Social Media breakfasts.

The Lovely Llama

Probably the most iconic animal associated with Peru is the llama. This odd looking creature has a strange charm and, like its cousin the camel, many people fall in love with their expressive eyes. A fully-grown llama can measure up to six feet from the ground to the tips of their ears and their strength puts them in demand for pack duties. The llama is an intelligent animal and has a pleasant gentle nature. Walking Peru’s mountains and villages you will see llamas used extensively in day to day working life as well as occasionally for guarding herds of sheep.

Spectacled Bear

You may come across this delightful fellow walking Peru’s dry northern habitats. Although unfortunately on the endangered list, there are conservation projects in place to protect the Spectacled Bear. It is so named because of its unique light colouring across its face which looks like a pair of spectacles, but it is also known as the Andean Bear. They are quite a docile animal but very protective of their cubs so if you want to get up close and personal with one of these unique creatures, perhaps the zoo would be the best option, otherwise the hospital beckons!

Magnificent Macaws

South America is one of the world’s premier bird-watching destinations. With many unique native birds it is a birdwatcher’s delight and the spectacular macaw is one of the most beautiful you will see. Walking Peru’s Amazon jungle will give you the best opportunity to meet a macaw and the brightly coloured plumage is easy to spot amongst the lush backdrop of the forests. Travelling in flocks of up to 300 the macaws congregate on clay ‘licks’, special deposits of clay along the riverbanks of the Amazon. There are many different species of macaws, each with their own individual colouring and markings in various vivid shades of blues, reds, yellows and greens.

The Andean Cat

Unfortunately your chances of seeing the Andean cat are quite slim as it has a reputation of being one of the world’s shyest cats. It also has another, unwanted, title which is as one of the world’s top five most endangered cats. Found in the high regions of Peru, the Andean cat is not much bigger than a normal domesticated cat with distinctive rust coloured spots and stripes on a silvery body. Although they look very cute and cuddly with their long thick fur, if you do happen upon one whilst walking Peru’s arid regions of the Andes, it is not advisable to approach them – but do try and get a photograph as proof!

About The Author:

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While walking Peru with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

This article was provided by LeadGenerators – the smartest SEO agency in London, and the proud host of a series of Internet Marketing training seminars and Social Media breakfasts.

The Witches Market, San Pedro, Cusco

Tucked away in the older and more colonial area of Cusco and found within the San Pedro market, the witches market is a true indication of the age-old and revered traditions of Peru. The myriad of stalls and booths sell little bottles of magic potions and concoctions of many different varieties which are both exotic and unusual. With incenses that can make people fall in love with you, dried frogs to bring you financial fortune, dried llama to bring you luck, and amulets that inspire lust, the magic simply seeps out of the stones in the market place. If you want to get really involved with the witchery, get your tarot cards read or your fortune told, and you might just get advanced warning of any bad luck that you might face whilst walking Peru. Forewarned is forearmed as they say!

The Witch Doctor

As well as the various potions you’ll find in the witches market, you will also come across all sorts of remedies and herbal medicines that can be used to cure any maladies you might have picked up whilst walking. Peru’s witch doctors have been around for centuries, and over the years they have collected an unfathomable amount of knowledge of traditional and homeopathic remedies, and the curative power of plants. So, make the most of the chance to get your blisters banished, your muscles soothed, and your aches and pains abolished by the alternative methods and medicines of the witch doctors of Peru.

The Witch Garden

After all the walking, Peru’s culinary offerings will certainly be most welcome. And, if you’re looking for tradition and witchcraft, where better to go for dinner than the Witches Garden. With a cosy and candle-lit dining room, this restaurant emanates the weird and wonderful atmosphere of a witches coven, with a menu that will leave you clamouring for second helpings. Featuring a vast menu of foods from all over the world, the Witch Garden also ensures that traditional Peruvian fare features on the menu several times, giving the restaurant a tremendous sense of authenticity. Lamb and vegetarian dishes are available for those who are feeling slightly less adventurous, or hoping to leave room for dessert, which is advisable given the infamous Black Hole Cake for which the restaurant has become renowned.

About The Author:

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While walking Peru with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

This article was provided by LeadGenerators – the smartest SEO agency in London, and the proud host of a series of Internet Marketing training seminars and Social Media breakfasts.

Formed of volcanic rock that has been cut away over time by the River Colca, the Colca Canyon ranges from 1,000 to 3,000 metres – more than twice the depth of America’s famous Grand Canyon.  However, unlike the Grand Canyon, parts of the 100 kilometre long Peruvian canyon are habitable, and have long been home to both animals and humans.

The Andean Condor

One of the main attractions of the Colca Canyon is undoubtedly the Andean Condor.  The population of this bird of prey is unfortunately dwindling and a visit to the canyon is the best way to ensure that you don’t miss seeing this national symbol during your walking holiday in Peru.  Condors hunt both in the early morning and late in the afternoon, and Cruz del Condor is well reputed as the best place to observe them as they soar gracefully on the thermal winds that blow up through the canyon, searching for carrion to eat.  Whether you are an avid bird watcher or not, catch a glimpse of the Condor and you will be struck by their effortless elegance.

La Calera Hot Springs

In a volcanic area such as the Andes, there is often an abundance of hot, thermal springs – the perfect way to unwind after a day’s hiking.  Peru is no exception to this rule and within the Colca Canyon, you will find the sacred La Calera hot springs.  Situated just a few kilometres outside of Chivay, La Calera hot springs have both indoor and outdoor pools, with water temperatures of around 38 degrees Centigrade.  Find yourself bathing by a water inlet however, and you’ll be able to make the most of the water as it first enters the pool at 50 degrees Centigrade.  The water in these springs is said to have curative properties, and a good long soak will leave you feeling refreshed and more than ready to face the rest of your walking holiday in Peru.

Toro Muerto Cemetery

On the way to one of the deepest points of the canyon, you will come across the Toro Muerto Cemetery – final resting place of the Wari Indians.  The Wari Indians were buried in the foetal position as was tradition in ancient Peru, as they believed that man should exit this world in the same way that they entered.  However, it remains a mystery to this day how the burial party succeeded in navigating a cemetery that is built into the steep cliff side of the canyon.  Attempt to puzzle this out as you take a wander through the area, steeped in mystery and intrigue.

For anyone who enjoys walking holidays, Peru is a fantastic choice; it’s varied landscapes of volcanoes and peaks making every day a new adventure.  The Colca Canyon, with its enormous depth, its diversity of wildlife and people, and its natural beauty, is certainly an adventure not to be missed.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. On walking holidays in Peru with Ramblers, you can walk the most scenic landscapes at the best value prices.

Where to Stay

When visiting Lake Titicaca, the best place to stay is the town of Puno.  Nestled between the shores of the lake and the mountains, the town is riddled with Incan folklore and remnants of the colonial times.  Within the city itself, there remain some buildings that make for very enjoyable browsing; the Catedral Basílica San Carlos Borromeo, for example, which dates back to 1757, is a beautiful stone structure, and houses a fascinating altar made of carved marble and plated with silver.  Puno harbour, on the shores of the lake, has an enchanting boardwalk, where you can relax as you gently stroll, enjoying the boats and the gift shops, and even a visit the Titicaca boats museum.  Whilst locals don’t recommend hiking in the hills just outside the town of Puno, for those who are on walking holidays, Peru’s finest landscapes can still be enjoyed with relative ease by taking a colectivo to Chucioto, where you can see the summits dotted with sacrificial offerings left by the locals.

What to See

The unique floating islands are perhaps one of the most famous reasons for visiting Lake Titicaca; the islands, made of totora reeds, are home to roughly 2,000 members of the Uros tribe, which outdates even the Incas.  The tribe is said to believe themselves to be the owners of the lake, and also immune to the cold.  Houses on the islands are made from reeds, however it is the reed boats they use that are the most impressive.  Often having the shape of an animal carved into the prow, these boats make for a wonderful photo opportunity.  Used to making a living from selling fish on the mainland, and from their woven goods, the Uros tribe now also weave for tourists; one of their woollens can work wonders for keeping you warm during the rest of your walking holiday.  Peru celebrates its wonderfully diverse and traditional culture, and nowhere is this more apparent than on a visit to the Uros tribe.

What to eat

Due to the altitude of Lake Titicaca, it is important not to eat too much if you intend to do any hiking.  Peru does however offer some wonderful culinary opportunities that should not be missed!  In Puno, you are likely to find plenty of fish on the menu, with trout and fried ‘suche’ – another local fish – caught daily, fresh from the lake.  During the day, and whilst out and about on excursions, traditional dish ‘Huaitia’ makes a wonderful snack; consisting of potatoes and oca, a plant found in the Andes.  It is baked in a mud hearth, and will certainly keep you going until dinner.  In the evenings, make the most of local delicacies such as ‘Chairo,’ a lamb soup; ‘chalona’ which is made up of dried meat; or ‘lechon al horno’, made of baked pork.  If however, you are feeling particularly adventurous, why not sample their specialty – guinea pig baked with cheese.  For those who do not fancy making a meal of what we know as a household pet, alpaca meat is also considered a delicacy, and makes for another enticing choice.

For those who wish to amalgamate culture and hiking, Peru is the perfect choice of destination.  Lying high up in the Andes, the areas surrounding Lake Titicaca offer spectacular walking opportunities with some fantastic views.  The Lake itself and the surrounding towns are full to the brim with fascinating culture and tradition, allowing you to immerse yourself in the Inca legend.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. On walking holidays in Peru with Ramblers, you can walk the most scenic landscapes at the best value prices.

Convento y Museo de San Francisco

The Convent of Saint Francis has survived earthquakes and the elements to become one of the most spectacular churches in Lima. Painstakingly restored inside and out, it is a striking example of Baroque style architecture. The interior is beautifully decorated with thousands of ceramic tiles called ‘azulejos’ imported from Seville, and a magnificent carved cedar dome forms an imposing centrepiece. A tour of the convent will reveal a stunning religious art gallery and a 17^th century library which holds over 20,000 books. But perhaps the most fascinating aspect of the Convento de San Franciso, and certainly the most visited, are the catacombs contained below. Built to bury the bodies of the Catholic population, the number of levels the catacombs descends to has not been fully established. Estimates of how many bodies are interred within however, range from 30,000 to 75,000. The display of the remains is somewhat eerie, with neatly arranged skulls, femurs and tibias stretching out in a wheel formation. On your walking holidays in Peru you will come across many instances of ancient Incan burial rituals – this however is not one of them!  In fact it is the work of archaeologists who excavated the catacombs.

A Walking Tour of the City

One of the best ways to discover the real Lima is to take a walking tour of the city. Whether you enlist the services of an expert guide or just go off on your own, you can visit some of the more out of the way places while walking. Peru’s history is written all over the back streets and buildings of Lima. As you wander the ancient back alleys of Old Lima you will be transported back to a time when the city was known as the ‘City of Kings’; and bohemian Barranco will live up to its reputation as one of the most romantic parts of Lima. The beautiful architecture and picture perfect street scenes look straight out of a nineteenth century movie set. If you want to see how the wealthy and privileged of Lima live, take a stroll through the delightful Miraflores or San Isidro areas.

Ride a Peruvian ‘Paso’

The beautiful Paso horses are a 400 year old breed of horse unique to Peru. They are widely considered to be the best riding horses in the world due to their specialised, high-stepping gait providing an extremely smooth ride. These noble horses are renowned for their feisty spirit, reminiscent of their forebears from the royal courts of Spain. If you are in Peru in April you can attend the wonderful Peruvian Paso Horse Festival which is held just outside Lima and is a lively and colourful event. But for a more hands-on experience with the Paso, you can go on an organised riding tour or visit an authentic Peruvian Hacienda. It makes a change if you need a rest from all that walking. Peru is justifiably proud of these wonderful horses and you will fall in love with their gentle nature.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, Ramblers Worldwide Holidays now offer over 250 holidays in more than 70 different countries. On a holiday walking in Peru with Ramblers, you can walk the most scenic landscapes at the best value prices.