Peru has little competition as one of the most diverse and intriguing countries in the world. The country has a geographical diversity that is envied by countries around the world with it's pristine coast, the deepest jungles and towering mountains. Whatever type of holiday you want, Peru can cater to it.

 

Peru's deserted coastline along the length of the entire country, stretching from one end to the other, offers some of the best beaches and surfing in the world.  The Amazon rain forest covers two-thirds of Peru in a rich blanket of green and has some of the last sections of the world yet to be charted.

 

Peru is also home to the second highest mountain range in the world - the Andes - which provide breathtakingly beautiful scenery and a variety of trails, whitewater sports and mountaineering options for those with an adventurous spirit. Ancient Peruvians worshipped the mountains. Experiencing Andes first hand it is easy to understand why these peaks that rise as steeples in the sky play such an integral role in the religion and mythology of Peru, much like it has in the foothills of the Himalayas. The Peruvians call the spirits of the mountains that protect the local people in the highlands Apus, the term traces its history back to the Incan Empire.

 

The Incan Empire was once the largest empire in the world. As far back as the sixteenth century it cast it's spell on visitors who were eager to unlock it's secrets and locate the source it's treasures. It is home to the world’s first stone pyramids, pre-dating the ancient Egyptians. Among the Incan ruins are ancient terraces, cobbled pathways and aquaducts creating a mystical atmosphere.  The remarkable history is the jewel in the crown of Peru.

For me, my addiction to traveling first started in Peru. Before coming to the country I had been on holidays before, but I had never fully embraced myself with the local cultures and experiences. My trip to Peru was an adventure right from the start. When I set off from Belgium in 2002, I headed straight to Peru and what was originally planned as a 3 month holiday turned into a 9 month adventure when I fell in love with all that Peru had to offer. My adventure in Peru planted the seed which lead to me choosing to centre my life around travelling and exploring!

 

For me Peru is a giant outdoor playground. There are so many opportunities to get out and enjoy the natural wonders all captured within it's borders - from the coastline to the rugged mountains and the Amazon jungle all in one country. Every adventurous whim I had could be satisfied in Peru, it is where I really came to realize my love of the mountains. While in Peru I worked as a rafting guide and met people from all over the world while enjoying the wildness of the country. The natural beauty along with great food, amazing people and a remarkable history, it all combines to make me feel continually drawn back to it.

 

I have traveled extensively all over South and Central America but Peru will always be special for me. When I came for the first time I found not only a destination but a country where I was made to feel that I belonged. It is with this same warmth that all are welcomed to Peru.