A short guide about Peru
If you love "French Fries" with your burgers, you should know that the potato originated in Peru. The mighty Incas cultivated potatoes in the high altitude of the Andes. There still are thousands of varieties of potatoes in Peru, being only one reflection of its 'mega diversity'. Peru, the land of the Incas, awaits you with a world of adventure and excitement.
The perfectly fitted stones of this glorious empire continue to be the main attraction to people from all over the world. Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas discovered centuries after the last Conquistador left, remains a web of riddles for the adventurer and the scientist to tackle. The Nazca lines, were they UFO landing sites or a pathway to the heavens and the gods?
You do not need to be a history buff to enjoy Peru. Of late, thousands of people have dared to visit the still unknown Amazon Rainforest in search of cures for the world's illnesses, by tapping into the knowledge of Shamans (medicine men). Some tourists will find the high jungle plateau tends to have a slightly lower humidity level than the lower Amazon Basin. You can have a reasonably comfortable trip to the deeps of the jungle in Iquitos, starting at the sea side, crossing the Andes, and slowly making your way down. Iquitos isn't reachable by road, and access is mainly by an Amazon Cruise boat. But if you want to get to the selva quickly, just fly one of the modern airlines that serve Iquitos and Tarapoto with daily flights from Lima. Despite being visited by almost 1.5 million foreigners each year, you can always find a place off the beaten track, where you will be the main attraction for the locals.
Tarapoto is the most important city in the area, and it is the trade centre for the District of San Martin. Tourists aren't crowded into Tarapoto and they are generally treated very well by the locals who welcome their business.
You may not be the adventurous type, but relax. Peru is working hard at becoming a modern country equipping itself to face the challenges of the new millennium. The five star hotels, restaurants, and nightlife will dazzle you. So come and explore this exciting land, rich in history and culture. Hasta la vista amigos! y Buen Viaje!