Machu Picchu Tours

Travellers who are mulling over booking holidays in Peru may like to consider working a visit to the historic Incan citadel of Machu Picchu into their plans.

The settlement is thought to have been built in the 15th century as a retreat for rulers of the ancient civilisation.

After the Incas were wiped out by invading Spanish troops, the city fell into disrepair and was lost to the world until its rediscovery in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, a Latin American Studies professor from Yale University.

Adventure Company offers a number of holidays in Peru which give travellers the chance to take in the sights of the city and the rest of the country.

Trekking the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is arguably the most famous route for travellers to reach the city. Starting in the Sacred Valley of Urubamba and culminating at Machu Picchu, the route offers one of the most diverse experiences that travellers will be able to find throughout the world.

It takes in 4,000m-high mountain passes and a variety of different ecosystems, from high altitude peaks to dense subtropical forests.

Trekkers are generally advised to spend some time in the city of Cusco to acclimatise to the altitude before embarking on the 45km trail - Adventure Company travellers will get to enjoy two days in the city before setting off on the Inca Trail.

Holidays to Peru

Peru is a diverse country which has something to offer for a variety of travellers, from sightseers who want to take in some history and culture to experienced trekkers seeking a challenge.

As well as the famous Machu Picchu, the Latin American nation also gives travellers the chance to see Lake Titicaca, which is located at a height of almost 4,000m and lies between Peru and Bolivia.

Adventurous travellers will welcome the range of activities available on holidays in Peru, from biking in the Andes to rafting in the Sacred Valley of Urubamba.

The High Inca Trail

Travellers seeking a longer, more challenging and less well-known challenge from their holidays in Peru should consider the High Inca Trail.

Beginning at Lake Titicaca - the world's highest navigable lake - and culminating at Machu Picchu, the trek is three days longer than the standard route of the Inca Trail.

Adventure Company puts these extra days to good use, allowing travellers to camp at the foot of a 5,800m high glacial peak and take in spectacular views of Salcantay, which was known to Incans as Savage Mountain.

Land of the Incas

Peru is known as the land of the Incas and is steeped in the culture and heritage of the ancient civilisation.

Travellers may already be aware of the famous lost city of Machu Picchu, which has been wowing those that have trekked to the citadel since it was rediscovered almost 100 years ago.

The Latin American country is also home to Cusco, the former capital of the Incan empire, as well as the sacred Lake Titicaca - where mythology says that the first king of the civilisation, Manco Capac, was born.