National Geographic Traveler: Peru, 3rd Edition

A guide designed for those who dream of exploring the magnificent Pacific coast, contemplating the infinite beauty of the Andes and immersing themselves in the boundless Amazonian jungle. Peru offers all this "an enviable wealth of different landscapes and climates“ and, hidden in the heart of forests, mountains and deserts, it also preserves the remains of ancient cultures in over 5,000 archaeological sites. The country's natural scenarios are unique and extreme, from the arid deserts on the Pacific coast, to the humid Amazonian rain forests, the highest navigable lake on the planet, and the imposing tropical mountain ranges. If for a visitor it is almost unthinkable not to see Machu Picchu, the expert authors of the guide provide a thousand other suggestions to immerse you in the colonial streets of Lima, be amazed in its modern neighborhoods overlooking the Pacific, and taste the regional food. And from sea level you can go up to 11,155 feet (3,400 m) in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Nature lovers will plan to explore the first UNESCO protected natural area, the Paracas Reserve, with its red sand beaches. Lake Titicaca with its floating villages is a sight not to be missed, and the Peruvian Amazon is the best kept secret of South America, with the last virgin forests on Earth.

British-born ROB RACHOWIECKI is an award-winning guidebook author and active member of the Society of American Travel Writers, with a Masters Degree in Ecology. He has traveled extensively and frequently throughout Peru since his first visit in 1982. Rob has written numerous books about Peru and works there as an adventure travel guide, leading treks in the high Andes and cruises on the upper Amazon. When not on the road, he makes his home in the American Southwest. VANCE JACOBS is an award-winning lifestyle and portrait photographer and filmmaker based in San Francisco. His work has taken him around the world to 40+ countries. When not on assignment, Jacobs can be found competing in an Ironman Distance Triathlon, marathon or adventure race.