A wonderful Peru travel idea in this specific segment is a 17-day exploration to
northern Peru, a land where
ancient civilisations, stunning landscapes and
vibrant local culture come together. To set the scene for your
journey back in time, visit
Lima's Museo Larco, as described above. Travel north to
Caral, the
oldest civilisation in the Americas,
dating back over 4,700 years, onto the Andes, passing the impressive
pre-Inca fortress of Paramonga (AD 1200-1400), through the
Conococha Pass and into the scenic
Huaylas Valley. In
Huaraz, explore the stunning
Lake Querococha and visit
Chavín de Huantar (850 - 200 BC), an
archaeological marvel and
UNESCO site. Descend to the coast and visit
Sechin, with its impressive monoliths and carved stone figures depicting human sacrifices. Continue to
Trujillo, a city that combines
colonial charm with pre-Incan history. See its colonial mansions and cathedrals before visiting the impressive
Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, the
centre of power in the Trujillo Valley during the Moche period. Experience the unique
traditions of Huanchaco, where fishermen still use reed boats, and explore
Chan Chan, the
largest adobe city in the world, once the capital of the Chimú civilisation. Travel on to
Chiclayo, stopping at the ancient site of
El Brujo and the
Lady of Cao Museum. In
Chiclayo, explore the world-famous
tomb of the Lord of Sipán at the
Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum. Marvel at the incredible artefacts and jewellery that offer an insight into the
Mochica culture. Continue to the
Valley of the Pyramids in
Tucume, a vast archaeological site with
26 ancient pyramids. Then venture into the cloud forests of Cocachimba and hike to the majestic
Gocta Waterfall, one of the highest in the world. Visit the eerie
sarcophagi of Karajía and the mystical
Quiocta Caves, hidden in the lush green Andes. Next, explore
Kuelap, an ancient fortress perched on a cliff, and take the
cable car up to the citadel for panoramic views, known as the
'Machu Picchu of the North'. In
Leymebamba, visit the
Museum of Mummies, which houses over 200 well-preserved mummies from the Chachapoyas civilisation. Then continue to Cajamarca, a city rich in
Incan and colonial history. Explore
Cumbemayo, with its mysterious
stone aqueducts, and visit the
Ventanillas de Otuzco, a fascinating
pre-Inca burial site carved into volcanic rock. Finally, tour the
historic centre of Cajamarca and visit the famous
Ransom Room, where the Inca emperor Atahualpa was held captive by Spanish conquistadors. Wander the charming
colonial streets and reflect on your journey before departing from Cajamarca airport.
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Photo credit: PromPeru © Walter Silvera
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