A Photo Journey Through Peru

Machu Picchu- ahhh the quintessential household name for most modern day travelers. This world wonder is discussed so frequently that it may appear to be a jump, skip and hop away. The truth is, the journey to get to this iconic ruin is half the fun! Unexplored ruins, remote villages, hidden hot springs and stunning scenery hardly experienced by tourist's are all at your fingertips..if you're willing to look for them!

1. Alpaca your bags!

Three-quarters of the world’s alpaca population lives in Peru. The national animal is the vicuña, a small camelid similar to the alpaca. It comes in 22 natural colors and its wool is considered the world’s most luxurious fabric.

2. The Deepest Canyon

The deepest canyon in the world, Cotahuasi Canyon, is also found in Peru. At 11,004 feet deep, it is almost twice as deep as the Grand Canyon.

3. Peruvian Ponchos

It takes between 500 and 600 hours and up to six months to spin, dye, and weave a traditional Peruvian poncho. Peruvians generally receive one poncho upon becoming an adult and it is expected to last a lifetime. Nearly every weaving technique known today was invented by Peruvians – and all of them were invented by 3000 B.C..

4. The Massive Incan Empire

The Incan Empire was larger than imperial Rome at its peak. It included 24,855 miles of roads and relied on a network of chasquis (runners) to keep the kingdom connected.

5. Finding your way

The Incas were the only ancient culture in the world to define constellations of both dark and light. Some of the main streets in Cuzco are designed to align with the stars at certain points of the year. At Machu Picchu, each sun temple and ritual stone lines up perfectly with the sun for their assigned solstice.