South America Tours Offer Almost Endless Beauty

By Earlene Silversmith


South America tours to Peru take you to a country of breath-taking scenery on an epic scale. From the magnificent misty foothills and the cloud forest, to the snow-clad Andean peaks, there is so much to see. One of the most popular ways to take in the gorgeous sights is by trekking in Peru.

There are countless famous cultural and natural wonders to view in this remarkable country. Lake Titicaca is here, as are the Nazca lines are here and the 'Shining Path'. Many backpackers will desire to journey into the 'Sacred Valley' and possibly walk the Salcantay trail as far as feted Machu Picchu. More daring hikers can undertake lesser known rambles to Cusco, or along one of the myriad paths through the Andes of Peru. The Inca Trail is the most renowned trek, and there is a strict limit of 500 hikers daily, who must use licensed guides. This is due to the effect that all the walking boots have made to the stone pathway and its environment. Journeys along this trail are often fully reserved for half a year in advance.

Every piece of this likeable, convivial territory has something distinctive to show the intrepid sightseer. The tropical Amazonian rain forest tracks near Puerto Maldonado provide several eye-catching treks, inspecting temples intertwined with jungle creepers along the way. Other leading centers of adventure tourism are the Earth's second highest mountain ranges, the remarkable sister ranges of the Cordilleras Blanca Huayhuash. Overland quests might originate from among the early shrines around Sican, Sipan and Moche. Another sought-after port-of-call is the Manu Biosphere Reserve.

Trekkers are treated to the diversity of experiences offered by Peru. The cloud forest of Chachapoya is famed for colorful bird-life. Other zones feature untamed rivers, soaring condors, prowling pumas, and wild sea-lions at the coast. Discover forgotten cities and lost temples on some of the more out-of-the-way treks. The stronghold of Kuelap is one remarkable example of the Chachapoyas archaeology which pre-dates the Incan culture.

Ramblers require well-made boots and rucksacks to hold spare warm clothes, water canteens and waterproof coats. Be careful of the risks of hypothermia or heat exhaustion. Altitude sickness is another hazard linked with the Andean Altiplano, and it is sensible to acclimatize gradually to the heights. Expectant mothers and kids of three or under should not climb the mountain peaks.

Air fares from all parts of the globe into Peru are expensive. Knowledgeable guides do not come cheap either, but are well worth it for specialized outdoor activities such as bird-watching, mountain biking, river-running or mountaineering. Haggling is the norm, always ask cab drivers, porters, muleteers, hotels and restaurants for the 'mejer precio' (best price).

Cholera, Dengue and Yellow fevers are quite regular infections all over South America. Confer with a doctor concerning vaccinations before you take a trip. Malaria and rabies (imparted by the wounds inflicted by dogs and vampire bats) are other threats to consider.

There have been cases of robberies and armed muggings of those trekking in Peru. This is mostly around Huaraz, in the Candilleras Blanca and Huayhuash. Generally however, with well- organized South America tours street crime is rarely a factor.




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