Peru

Lima

Lima, the capital of Peru, is a large city located on the country's arid Pacific coast. Though its colonial center is preserved, it's a bustling metropolis and one of the largest cities in South America. Lima is known for its vibrant food culture and houses some of the best restaurants in the world. The historical center of Lima is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Major attractions include the Plaza Mayor, the Lima Cathedral, and the Government Palace. The city's coastal location also affords beautiful ocean views and beaches, making it a significant tourist destination in Peru.

Cusco

Cusco, also spelled Cuzco, is a city in southeastern Peru, near the Urubamba Valley of the Andes mountain range. It is the capital of the Cusco Region and was historically the capital of the Inca Empire from the 13th century until the 16th-century Spanish conquest. The city is a major tourist attraction, known for its archaeological remains and Spanish colonial architecture. The quintessential site nearby is Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca city located high in the Andes mountains, which draws thousands of visitors each year.

Puno

Puno is a city in southeastern Peru, situated on the shore of Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Puno is considered the folkloric capital of Peru due to its vibrant festivals, especially the feast of the Virgin of Candelaria. The city is a gateway to the lake's famous floating islands, where the Uros people have lived for centuries on hand-made reed islets. In addition, Puno's proximity to Bolivia offers an opportunity to explore more of the Andean highlands and ancient civilizations.

Arequipa

Arequipa, also known as the 'White City', is the second most populous city in Peru and is known for its stunning colonial architecture, which includes many buildings made from white volcanic stone called sillar. The historic center of Arequipa is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with Spanish-era churches, mansions, and the impressive Santa Catalina Monastery. Surrounded by three volcanoes, most notably the iconic El Misti, Arequipa is a major economic hub and a gateway for tourists exploring the Colca Canyon and various other natural attractions in the region.

Iquitos

Iquitos is a fascinating city located in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon rainforest. It is known for its unique position as the largest city in the world that cannot be reached by road, making river and air the primary modes of transport. Iquitos serves as the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon, offering visitors a plethora of jungle excursions, wildlife spotting opportunities, and cultural experiences with indigenous tribes. The city itself is vibrant with a blend of Amazonian, European, and modern influences, featuring landmarks like the Iron House designed by Gustave Eiffel, the Belen Market, and the Amazon Rescue Center. Tourism is a key industry here, bolstered by the city’s natural beauty and unique attractions.

Ica

Ica is a city located in the desert coastal region of southern Peru. Known for its historic sites, beautiful landscapes, and a significant contribution to Peruvian wine and pisco production, Ica offers visitors a blend of cultural and natural attractions. The city is close to the Huacachina Oasis, a popular destination for sandboarding and dune buggy rides. Ica's cultural heritage includes impressive colonial buildings and ancient indigenous art, making it a vital part of Peru's tourism circuit.

Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is an Inca archaeological site located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas near Cusco, Peru. It is a significant cultural and historical site, known for its well-preserved ruins, including terraces, stone water fountains, and ancient Inca structures. The town of Ollantaytambo itself is also notable for its original Inca town layout, with stone-paved streets and traditional adobe houses. It serves as a popular tourist destination and the starting point for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.