Whilst you are in Peri, you must definitely explore the surroundings of Ica. Who would have believed that the country is home to an oasis and a desert, penguins, Pisco and everything, all in such a small place? A journey to the heart of the region can offer you incredible diversity and an unforgettable experience with nature.

Surf, try new things, explore and more in Ica

Huaraz is the perfect departure point for excursions into both the Cordillera Blanca and the Cordillera Negra. It's in the heights of the Sierra that you will truly discover all the fantastic features that the Ancash region has to offer.

Huarez: a jewel nestled between snow-covered peaks

Arriving in Iquitos by air gives a foretaste of what awaits you in the dense jungle. From above, all you see is a thick forest that covers the land as far as the eye can see, where only the river and its tributaries stand out from an immense green carpet.

In the heart of the Amazon rainforest: Iquitos and its floating shantytown

Located between the Selva and the Cordillera of the Andes, the Huancavélica and Cerro Pasco region will put you under its spell, with its incredible landscapes, the welcoming nature of the local inhabitants and the old traditions that are still very much alive

Pasco and Huancavélica: a voyage combining nature and tradition

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 Pachacamac is one of Peru's biggest archaeological sites. This impressive complex sits by the Pacific Ocean.  

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The huge site of Pachacamac (sovereign of the world in Quechua) is in the heart of the desert, so if you're planning to explore it on your own, make sure you wear a hat, slap on the sunscreen and take plenty of water. If you go on a guided tour, you'll be on a double decker bus - less enchanting but practical. This ancient town prospered from the Lima to Inca civilisations, namely from 200BC to 1500, so you can imagine the importance it held in the region. From what we know, the town was a religious centre and pilgrimage site. Inhabited by female acolytes it was also home to a famous Inca oracle. I went for the cheaper option and toured the site by foot, although I regretted not having hired a guide. Fifty buildings are spread across several hectares but, as not all are restored, you'll need to use a bit of imagination to visualise the city during its heyday. The museum at the exit helps to fill in the gaps! The views from the higher levels are well worth the effort. An interesting excursion to put on your <a href="/peru/">Peruvian to do list</a> and a worthwhile stopoff between Lima and Paracas.

A pre-Inca site situated at 30km from Lima.       

The Pachacamac was an important pre-Inca civilisation that went into decline around 1450, the time when the Incas rose to power.  With my guide in tow, I really enjoyed touring the huge archaeological site as well as the museum. Visiting both made my trip all the more worthwhile, as I learnt so much about the area's history. The view that greets you when you reach the highest level of the site is jaw-dropping. On my way up, I trudged through a desert-like landscape, void of any vegetation. It was only when I arrived at the top that I found myself face to face with the Pacific Ocean. So you can imagine my surprise at seeing the expanse of green and fertile lands that stretched out below. This imposing <a href="/peru/">Peruvian site</a> will appeal to any visitor fascinated by pre-Inca civilisations.

Pachacamac is one of Peru's biggest archaeological sites. This impressive complex sits by the Pacific Ocean.

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