Known for the Inca Empire and the Norte Chico Civilization, Peru is a country located in South America and is very rich in terms of culture. Peru is bordered by countries like Ecuador and Colombia up north and its western side faces the Pacific Ocean. The capital province is Lima, located in the western part. Peru is blessed with natural wonders and scenery that would truly catch your eyes. The Machu Pichu is a popular attraction, although it is not a natural wonder, but just adds to Peru’s aesthetic value. Though Peru is still a developing country, it can still provide you a perfect time for vacation with its natural gifts for you to benefit.
Alpamayo Mountain
Alpamayo mountain is a candidate for one of the Seven Natural Wonders of South America. It is considered one of the most picturesque mountains in the world. Although lower than some of the surrounding peaks, it does reach a height of 19,511 feet (5,947 m). Alpamayo is easily one of the pinnacle wonders of nature from the country. It is located in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range.
One of the key features is the nearly symmetrical 60 degree pyramid shape of the mountain. Get a closer look and learn more about Alpamayo Mountain here.
Gocta Cataracts
Most of the waterfalls in the world only have a single drop, but Gocta Cataracts is different, it has two drops which reach 771 meters in height, making it the third tallest free-leaping waterfall in the word. The waterfall still has trees on its sides and the two drops are very visible from afar. Swimming in the waterfalls is not allowed, but there’s nothing that will stop you from enjoying the breathtaking view. The best way to enjoy is to have you camera ready with you and take your best shots. This natural wonder is an affirmation of Peru’s inner beauty, just like water that never ceases to flow.
El Misti
Standing at 19,000 feet above sea level, El Misti is a stratovolcano located in the southern part of Peru. The peak is seasonally snow-capped and the cone is symmetrical, although not as closely symmetrical to the Mayon Volcano in the Philippines. It last erupted in 1985, and is still active until now, with fumaroles presently found in some of its craters. A trek to the volcano is not advisable for plain tourist because the trek is somewhat very steep and is only recommended for advanced climbers. The sunset view is a good photographic sunset for those shutterbugs out there.
Lake Titicaca
The blue waters of Lake Titicaca are like the fresh and cold Peruvian climate. Lake Titicaca is divided in to two sides where the eastern side of the lake belongs to Bolivia while the western side is for Peru. In the Peruvian side of the lake, you can see locals who manage to preserve the traditional way of fishing with the use of their old designed boats. The lake is also the home of threatened species of frogs which needs biodiversity protection. A day spent in the lake is like a day spent in the spa because the scenery relaxes you from the stresses of life. This lake should be one of the places that you must visit when you are in Peru.
Manu National Park
Make way for this biodiversity wonder in Peru. The Manu National Park is beautifully landscaped with rich green trees all over the place and free flowing streams in some areas.
This park is home to more than 20,000 species of flowers and faunal species that would make you feel that you are in an African safari. The place is perfect for family getaways who want to spend time with their watching animals and birds for pleasure. There also campsites available, you just have to make arrangements with local park officials to be provided with camping permission.
Amazon Rainforest
Perhaps this is the destination that you should not miss when you are in Peru. Of all the places that were mentioned, the Amazon rainforest is probably the word that would ring a bell when we talk about Peru. In movies, the Amazon has always been described as a biodiversity rich area, with a very lengthy river. But beyond what movies show lies the secrets that Amazon wants you to discover. Experiencing it firsthand compares nothing else. The colorful birds are perfect for your kids to enjoy watching. Truly, the Amazon Rainforest is the affirmation of Peru’s innate wonders.