Peru: Machu Picchu and Ancient Civilizations

Peru, on South America's Pacific coast, is home to Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel, and one of the world's most significant archaeological heritages. From coastal deserts to Andean peaks to Amazon rainforest, Peru encompasses remarkable geographic and cultural diversity.

The Inca Empire, which stretched across western South America before Spanish conquest, left extraordinary ruins including Machu Picchu, Cusco, and Sacsayhuamán. Pre-Inca civilizations like the Nazca (famous for mysterious lines) and Moche also left impressive legacies. Peru's indigenous heritage remains strong, with Quechua and Aymara widely spoken.

Peruvian cuisine has gained international acclaim, with Lima becoming a culinary capital. Ceviche, causa, and lomo saltado showcase Peru's fusion of indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences. The Amazon basin covers much of eastern Peru, harboring incredible biodiversity. Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, is sacred in Andean culture.