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Breathtaking combinations of landscapes and cultures laced with ancient mysteries makes Peru the most exciting South American destination .

ew countries can offer the spectacle and geographic diversity of Peru. There is a rich history with mysterious pre-Columbian cultures reaching back 5,000 years and the more recent legacy of Spanish colonial rule. Consider the sharp juxtaposition of the narrow and arid coastal plains, the mighty wall of the towering Andes Corridor behind which stretch the tropical forests of the upper Amazon basin and its mighty tributaries. Then add to this the sights and sounds of modern day Peru and you will have the measure of a truly remarkable destination that should be experienced at least once in a lifetime. And if this be the case ...then do it in style!

The vibrant and gastronomically rich capital of Lima offers a fascinating international gateway and visitors should consider a short stay in town at the Miraflores Park before embarking on a circuit of domestic flights linking the cities of Iquitos, Cuzco and Arequipa opening up a splendid combination of Peruvian

experiences beginning with a 3, 4 or 7 night river discovery cruise on the Northern Amazon aboard the small, but ultra luxurious all-suite vessels of Aqua Expeditions.

The cultural climax to the trip introduces a spectacular network of properties owned by Orient-Express in and around Cuzco and the Urubamba Valley beginning with The Hotel Monasterio in Cuzco and culminating in a mountain-top stay at the uniquely positioned Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge. Travel up the valley on Orient Express’ luxury train, Hiram Bingham, stopping off for some magical days at the newly opened Hotel Rio Sagrado.

What better way to conclude an amazing Peruvian adventure than to head southwards to the remote Colca Canyon, an area of outstanding beauty that remains relatively undiscovered by tourism affording the opportunity to completely wind down the tempo at the sublime hideaway of Las Casitas de Colca.