Car Hire Peru - Mini guide to Peru

Situated on the northwestern coast of South America, Peru astonishes visitors with its wealth of ancient ruins, varied scenic beauty and unique flora and fauna, making it one of the most rewarding holiday destinations in the Americas.

Lima, the capital, is the best base to explore the country, and boasts several magnificent attractions of its own, including the Palacio de Gobierno, the Renaissance-style Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace and the 16th century church and monastery of Santo Domingo. If this hasn’t worn you out, there is also the Casa de Osambela, the Jesuit Church of San Pedro, the famous catacombs of the Church of San Francisco, and the spectacular 18th century Torre Tagle Palace. The city also contains Peru’s best museums, with magnificent collections of artifacts, paintings and other works of art.

Numerous opportunities are available to explore the area around Lima on short excursions. To the north lie the Chillon valley, with its Temple El Paraiso, the beach resort of Ancón, and the Chancay valley, while south along the coast are the famous ruins of Pachacamac, with its Temple of the Moon, Convent of the Sun Virgins, and Sun Temple. Other coastal areas of interest are Callao, La Punta Barranco, Castle of Real Felipe, and the Costa Verde, while inland are the magnificent sights of Marcahuasi, Cajamarquilla, Puruchuco, and Tarma. Along the coast to the south are spectacular views and nature lovers will delight in the wildlife of the Islas Ballestas and Peninsula de Paracas. Further south are the world-famous Nazca Lines - huge geometric designs, mostly of animals and birds, whose origins and purpose are a mystery.

Inland, the magnificent white city of Arequipa waits to awe you with its stunning architecture, while nearby is the fascinating ancient Lake Titicaca with its intriguing Isla Taquile. Those seeking spectacular Inca ruins should head for Cuzco, with its Coricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Puca Pucara and Tambo Machay ruins, and the incredible Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Huaraz region, where you can organize climbing, trekking and backpacking expeditions into the Andes. For the more adventurous, Iquitos is Peru’s largest jungle city and gateway for excursions into the Amazon.

Peru’s main cities have ample first-class accommodations and excellent restaurants. The nightlife is varied and vibrant, with numerous cafes, bars, pubs, and outdoor entertainment areas.

Lima's international airport, Jorge Chavez, is the main hub for flights to the Andean countries from North America and Europe. Transportation from the airport into the city is convenient and reliable.