What a Wonderful World

It’s not all about the Incas… Stephen Bray introduces an array of wild wonders, highlighting Peru’s natural attractions

More than Machu Picchu

Peru has long been our best-selling Latin American destination – and that’s not all down to Machu Picchu. The Incas left an impressive mark, but Peru’s natural treasures – from steamy rainforests to plunging gorges – have always astonished. Here’s why the landscapes give the famous ruins a run for their money.

The Amazon
Why go?
To immerse yourself in the riverbanks and leafy canopies of the world’s largest and most species-rich tropical rainforest. The Amazon is immense: its basin encompasses 7 million sq km, and vast tracts of it coat northern Peru in a cacophonous forest intersected by rivers as wide as countries. And then there are the residents: from squawking toucans to howling monkeys, pink dolphins and remote Indian tribes, this is a true world wonder.

The Bales way: For 2008 we are featuring cruises on the Delfin, the most comfortable small vessel sailing the Peruvian Amazon. Settle into one of its seven en suite cabins, enjoy gourmet meals and head out with an expert naturalist to feel the power of the jungle. (Amazon Delfin seven-night extension including cruise, from £1,360)

Lake Titicaca
Why go?
To see the ethereal light sparkle on the clear waters and remote islands of the world’s highest navigable lake (above). Sitting high and mighty at 3,812m, Lake Titicaca’s expansive waters straddle Peru and Bolivia. It has long been considered sacred by local Aymara and Quechua peoples – the mirror-like lake, surrounded by mountains, has a magical air. Don’t miss Isla del Sol, site of an ancient Incan temple, or the floating reed islands of the Uros tribe.

The Bales way: Several itineraries feature Titicaca, with stays on both the Peruvian and Bolivian shores. Delve into Puno’s pre- Columbian history, visit the Yavari, a Britishbuilt steamship, and pop into the lakeside museums. Our new Andean Explorer tour visits the floating islands as well as taking in Machu Picchu en route from Lima to Santiago. (Andean Explorer Escorted Journey; 18 days from £3,825)

Colca Canyon
Why go?
To watch majestic condors soar over one of the world’s deepest canyons. Colca is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, dipping over 1km in places. Pre- Inca terraces line the valley sides while Andean condors drift above. Small villages dot the area, buzzing with colourful markets and traditional costumes – the authentic Andean experience.

The Bales way: Colca is close to Titicaca, so fits well into any Peruvian itinerary. Our Peru and the Andes tour also visits Arequipa and Machu Picchu. (Peru and the Andes Escorted Journey; 16 days from £2,965)