Top Reasons for Visiting the Rich Diversity Found in Peru

Peru is best known for llamas and for visiting the ancient city remains of Machu Pichu high in the Andes Mountains. But once you've been to Machu Pichu and seen or even rode a llama, what do you do? The answers is there are many, many reasons for a Peru vacation, not the least of which is it makes a very inexpensive vacation.

On A Peru Vacation Discover, See and Photograph The Wildlife

Besides the huge variety of species found in the Amazon basin, Peru has many species of birds and mammals that can be found around the cities. Wildlife forms to be found in the Amazon include snakes, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies and moths and other unusual insects, 1800+ species of birds, 10+ species of mammals including bats and the tame llama and alpaca and the wild vicuma, and unusual tropical trees and plants and many that flower. Look through Best Selected Photographs of Peruvian Mammals and Best Selected Photographs of Peruvian Birds to see more photographs.

The Andes are Rich in Geology and Good for the Heart on A Peru Vacation

Most of the population that doesn't live in Lima lives in the upper valleys of the Andes Mountains at elevations from 5,000 to 16,000 feet. Visitors must move slowly in order to feel like you can breathe at first and it is not uncommon to feel dizzy. But after acclimating, the many walks around town in Arequipa, Cuzco, at Puno and in Colcha Canyon can healthy and introduce many of the aspects of living in one of the most volcanic, earthquake prone areas, with many geologic wonders. Read Earthquakes and the Long Term Effects on the Residents of Peru to see some examples.

The Unusual Locales of Peruvian Cities Provide Glimpses of the Culture

Many people visit Peru by way of small charter flights or by riding the buses that are conveniently booked, comfortable to ride in, offer up travel guide services, and have good air conditioning and large windows for viewing. Some of the main cities visited in Peru include Lima, which is on the coast and the capitol of the country, Cuzco, which is in the highlands of the Andes Mountains, Arequipa, an attractive town set amidst several volcanoes, Yanque amid the Colca Canyon and Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

Understanding the Cultural History of Peru Can be Found in Many of the Historical Sites

Along with an inspiring trip by train to see the misty clouds at the top of Machu Pichu, one can also visit many of the lesser well known historical sites like Sacsayhuman which was the warrior enclave at Cuzco and the Temple of the Sun. In Lima two museums, the Gold Museum, and the National Museum explain about clothing, pottery, metal working, art work and much more. It is clear to see that almost every available ounce of land was being used or put into use by the existing population that was booming.

Take A Close Look at Peru Culture Alone or on a Peru Volunteer Vacation

When riding the buses between cities, the modern Peruvian culture is visible in everything seen. Examples include schools that dress all the same in sweat suits and level a mountainous area in order to play soccer. The effect of earthquakes are seen in the buildings and at the churches. Market days are especially fun with locals traveling for miles by truck or bus and selling goods like dyes for clothing and jewelry. The local food is available in cafes and restaurants. This can be one of the most intriguing experiences, the mix of modern internet cafes and the carrying of goods in a shawl. It is clear to see that almost every available ounce of land was being used or put into use by the existing population that was booming.

During our visit, there was a conference on the use of petroleum and other sources of energy. Also, we ran into American soldiers and students that were in the country to work on aid programs-building homes etc. Here are a few of the available organizations that are looking for volunteers for Peru and can help make an inexpensive trip even less expensive:

Volunteers Abroad

Bunac

Here is a Spanish Tutoring Program that visitors can take that helps single mothers learn to teach Spanish language Skills:

SecondChance

The rich diversity of life between tropical rainforest and high mountain terrain, the contrast between Incan and Spanish heritage, the accumulating effect of technology in the region, all make Peru a visual and mental challenge while offering up relaxation from your day to day style of life. Have a good trip and be sure to check out my links section for other great Associated Content on Peru vacations.