Peru is a country that enchants millions of visitors every year. In such a diverse country, deciding on whether to concentrate on history and culture, outdoor activities, ancient cultures or wildlife is a challenge for even the most experienced traveller. Full-colour throughout, Peru Highlights cuts through the vast array of available material and showcases the best places to visit, the ultimate itineraries and the finest routes to follow.
First-hand descriptions of essential sights and wildlife, and contributions on accommodation and travel tips from expert tour operators create both a valuable planning tool for selecting an itinerary and liaising with operators and a colourful companion to take on your trip.
Introduction
PART ONE: INTRODUCING PERU
Chapter 1 Background Information
History, People, Culture
Chapter 2 The Natural World
Geography and climate, Natural history, Wildlife, Conservation
Chapter 3 Preparations and Practicalities/Before you Go
When to visit, Getting there, Red tape, Tour operators, Types of tour, itineraries, Special-interest holidays, what to take
Chapter 4 On the ground
Health, Safety, Money and tipping, Accommodation, Eating and drinking, Shopping, Media and communications, Cultural etiquette, Travelling positively
PART TWO: PERU HIGHLIGHTS
Chapter 5 Lima and region
Getting there and away, Getting around, Highlights, Restaurants, Bars and nightlife, Cultural activities and festivals, Shopping, Tours, Museums, Other attractions, Beyond the city
Chapter 6 The North
Huaraz, the Cordilleras Blanca and Huayhuash, Trujillo, Cajamarca, Chiclayo, Mancora, Tumbes.
Chapter 7 Coastal Peru south of Lima
Pisco, Ica, Paracas, Islas Ballestas, Nazca
Chapter 8 The South
Arequipa, Cotahuasi, Colca Canyon, Valley of the Volcanoes, Puno, Lake Titicaca, the islands of Uros, Taquile and Amantani
Chapter 9 Cusco and the Sacred Valley
Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Chinchero, Aguas Calientes (incl Machu Picchu, alternative ruins, the Inca Trail and alternative treks
Chapter 10 The Amazon
Iquitos, Pacaya Samiria, Puerto Maldonado, Tambopata, Madre de Dios, Manu Biosphere
Appendix 1: Language
Appendix 2: Further information
Alexander Stewart first visited Peru having studied the Spanish conquest of the country at university. Since then he has been travelling to Peru for 15 years, and has been a guidebook writer for almost 10 years.