Five times bigger than the UK, Peru is famous for its fantastic cultural attractions. Visitors flock from across the globe to admire its age-old cities and UNESCO-stamped sites. But holidays to Peru also serve up jungle adventures, great hiking opportunities and mouthwatering cuisine. So, if you’ve always dreamt of going to this South American gem, why not make it a reality?

Peru’s landscape is incredibly diverse. In the north, the rich Amazon Rainforest is home to pumas, jaguars, monkeys, sloths and river dolphins. In the south, meanwhile, Lake Titicaca – the world’s highest lake – is peppered with crumbling temples, tiered fields and tiny islands. The Andes Mountains curve down the country like a crooked spine. And, to the east, the Pacific Ocean brushes against the 1,500-mile coastline.

But, for many, Peru’s ancient cities and Incan ruins are the main attraction. Make sure you visit Lima, as this bustling capital has all sorts of things to do. You can admire grand churches, stroll around fascinating museums, and even take surfing lessons. Plus, you can enjoy some of the tastiest cuisine in the whole of South America, as you feast on popular Peruvian dishes like sea bass ceviche, stir-fried beef and spicy stuffed peppers.

Cusco – the once-capital of the Incan Empire – is another must-see. You’ll be greeted by sprawling plazas, impressive cathedrals and llamas walking down the cobbled streets. You can tick off significant sites like Plaza de Armas and the Coricancha. Also known as The Temple of the Sun, this finely-carved shrine was the most important religious place for the Incas.

But the headline act of any Peru holiday is, of course, Machu Picchu. Dating back to 1450 and made up of around 200 buildings, this Incan citadel is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World – and it’s not hard to see why. Perched high in the Andes, this awe-inspiring city and its magnificent views will surpass all your expectations. You can either take a daytrip from Cusco or, if you fancy a challenge, embark on a four-day trek along the Inca Trail. Whichever option you choose, you’ll need to book your Machu Picchu spot several months in advance, as there’s a daily restriction on visitor numbers. Speak to our Travel Specialists to find out more, and start planning your tailor-made holiday to Peru.