March 2021

Have you been off the beaten track Peru? Do you know where Peru is and what are the off-beat places? Do you know what Peru is famous for? This post gives you the answers to all those questions.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means, that if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclaimer Policy for more information. 

Where is Peru?

Peru is a country in South America. The country shares borders with Ecuador and Colombia in the north, Brazil in its east, Bolivia in its southeast, and Chile in its south. The official name of Peru is the Republic of Peru.

Peru is a megadiverse country as it has tropical forests, arid plains, and a beautiful marine coastline. Megadiverse means any country that has at least 5,000 species of flora and fauna and shares a border with marine ecosystems.

Origin of Name

There are several stories as to the origin of the name Peru. According to Britannica, Peru was from a Quechua Indian word that means abundance. According to local belief, the name is from the local ruler, Biru, who lived near San Miguel Bay during the 16th century.

Inca Garcilaso de la Vega in his work Comentarios Reales de los Incas stated that Biru was a native Indian who chanced upon a foreign ship on an exploratory mission.

What are the 5 Facts About Peru?

With a history that spreads 10 millennia and is home to the Norte Chico Civilization and the Amazon Jungle, the people of Peru are resilient and are quick to adapt to their surroundings.

Read on to know the 50 Fun Facts Which You Never Knew About Peru. 

Visa Requirements 

To encourage tourism, Peru has a relaxed policy for tourists. Citizens from Western Europe and the Americas do not require a visa and can stay for a maximum of 183 days. This is not extendable further. Citizens of Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, Paraguay, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, and Bolivia do not require a visa. They enter using their national identification documents.

To determine if you need a visa, check how to Obtain A Visa To Enter Peru. The countries which require a visa are on this page. The links to the Peruvian State Government’s website are in Spanish. 

What are the official languages of Peru?

Spanish

One of the legacies of the Spanish conquest was its language. Spanish is one of the official languages in Peru. However, Article 48 in the Political Constitution of Peru states that “Spanish are official languages ​​and, in the areas where they predominate, so are Quechua, Aymara, and other aboriginal languages, according to the law.”

Quechua and Aymara are languages of indigenous tribes in the Amazon Basin. There are 13 ethnolinguistic groups with each having its own sub-linguistics. A basic grasp of the Spanish language is essential before going to Peru. After all, Spanish is the second spoken language in the world after Mandarin. 

To learn Spanish, check out Duolingo and the Spanish Phrasebook which is also useful with basic terms you can use when traveling.

What are the types of Spanish in Peru?

Peruvian Spanish are Andean Spanish, Peruvian Coast Spanish, Andean-Coastal Spanish, and Amazonian Spanish. These are the four major types of Spanish in Peru.

Is Peruvian Spanish Easy to Understand?

Yes! If you are looking to brush up on your Spanish language, Peru is the place to be! Here are 7 Reasons Why Peru is the Perfect Place to Learn Spanish.

How do you say Hello in Peru?

Hola! This greeting is common in Peru and Spanish-speaking countries. Check out the Spanish Phrases You Need To Know before heading to Peru.

How do you say Hello in Aymara?

Laphi! That’s how you say hello in Aymara. Aymara is an endangered language of Bolivia, Peru, Northern Chile, and Argentina. The older generations no longer speak to the younger generations in this language and that is what makes it endangered. Check out the Useful Phrases in Aymara and try interacting with the locals on your trip to Peru.

What are the off the beaten track Peru destinations?

While Peru is known for its most famous landmark, the Machu Picchu, there are many off the beaten track Peru destinations. And, some of these are worth the time visiting.

Sacred Valley

Our first off the beaten track Peru is Urubamba Valley or Sacred Valley. Sacred Valley is in the Andean Mountains of Peru which is 12 miles from Cusco. The people here speak Quechua. This region has snow-capped mountains, fertile lands, and agricultural terraces.

Check out the Sacred Valley of the Incas which is now a tourist hotspot. Four Sacred Valley monuments are in this post. The four monuments are Moray, Maras, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo.

Moray

Moray is 31 miles from Cusco. These terraces are an engineering marvel. This site was used as an agricultural lab to test various crops. This is because of Peru’s micro-climate which ranges from tropical to arid.

Do you know that the temperature at the top and bottom terraces vary by at least 15°C?

Maras Salt Ponds

Salinas de Maras is another name for these salt ponds. Maras is 25 miles from Cusco. This town is known for its salt ponds. This salt production site pre-dates the Incas. These lakes were created by the Wari people. There are 3,000 salt pools which are owned by families who have been working on these salt ponds since pre-Incan times.

The process to extract the salt hasn’t changed. Water from a local stream is left to evaporate leaving the salt behind. The first layer is expensive and is pink or white in color. The second and third layers are of lower quality and are sold as industrial salt.

Pisac

The Incan Complex at Pisac is the place to go to if you want a similar experience to Machu Picchu, without the crowds. Pachacuti built this complex as a royal residence. This site contains agricultural terraces, guard posts, residential homes, and a watchtower.

This area is part of the Pisac National Archaeological Park which was formed to protect and recognize the value of these ruins. The Willka Raymi celebrations conducted here annually. This is as a representation of offering to Pachamama, the Goddess of the Andean indigenous people.

Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is another royal estate of Pachacuti. This area was the stronghold of Manco Inca Yupanqui during the Spanish conquest. He was a puppet emperor and resistance fighter against the Incas who worked with the Spaniards.

Is Ollantaytambo worth visiting?

Yes! Ollantaytambo is the transit for the four-day Inca Trail hike. Check out this Short Guide to Ollantaytambo and the 6 Reasons To Visit Ollantaytambo before heading there.

How far is Ollantaytambo from Cusco?

The distance by road is about 37 miles. This journey takes an hour. There are 5 ways to get to Cusco which are bus, train, taxi, drive, or shuttle.

How much is a taxi from Cusco to Ollantaytambo?

The taxi costs $40 to $50 and the journey takes about an hour.

Huaca del Sol y de La Luna (Temple of the Moon)

Our second off the beaten track Peru is Huaca del Sol y La Luna or Temple of the Moon. This is a must-see archaeological site. This adobe site was built by the Moche people whose empire flourished between 100-700 AD in Trujuilo which is in the northwest of Peru.

The Temple of the Moon is on Xinhua News and World Monuments Fund. This site is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The government hopes to gain recognition before Peru’s Bicentennial Independence in 2021.

Gocta Waterfalls

Our third off the beaten track Peru is Gocta Waterfalls. This waterfall is the 17th highest in the world and 19th in the Most Instagrammed Waterfall by TimeOut. A German named Stefan Ziemandorff “discovered” this waterfall in 2002. This wasn’t a new discovery as the locals knew about these waterfalls for centuries.

He measured the height of the falls to be 771 meters. In recent news, the area surrounding the walls has been declared a conservation zone. The source of this magnificent waterfall and the Inca trail that leads to it is a separate hike altogether.

Ventanillas de Combayo (Combayo Windows)

The fourth off the beaten track in Peru is Ventanillas de Combayo. These are the largest collection of funerary niches in the region. These complexes are 19 miles from Cajamarca. Check out How to Get to Ventanillas de Combayo. This trip can be combined with a trip to Ventanillas de Otuzco which is another funerary niche worth exploring. 

Fortaleza de Kuelap (Fortress of Kuelap)

The last in our off the beaten track Peru is Fortaleza de Kuelap or Fortress of Kuelap. This fortress is the Machu Picchu of the North. This walled fortress is built on a limestone ridge about 3,000 meters above sea level and overlooks Utcubamba Valley.

This site was built by the Chachapoyas who are the “Cloud Warriors” of Peru. These cloud warriors were unique as they are described as lighter-skinned and had a strong will to fight. It is believed that strenghwise, they were just as capable as their Incan counterparts.

What does the word Chachapoya mean?

The word Chachapoya comes from the Quechua words “sachas” and “puyus” which translates to the cloud forest. The name describes the location where the Inca’s first contact with these people was made which is where the cloud-covered forests of Amazon meet the slopes of the Andes mountains.

Some controversies are surrounding the background of this tribe considering no written records about them are available. What we have is information based on Incas and Spanish conquests who met this tribespeople. 

How do I get to Chachapoyas?

There are 5 ways to get to Chachapoyas with the recommended option being to fly to Cajamarca and then drive to Chachapoya. The drive is estimated to be about 6 hours.

What was found at Karajia?

The Sarcophagi of Carajia are described as the “ancient wise men”, and stand at a height of 2.5 meters. These remains are connected to the Chachapoyas who had a culture of mummifying their dead in hard-to-reach places.

There were originally eight sarcophagi, but two have collapsed. And, from archaeological research, only important individuals were buried here, according to local belief and these sarcophagi are proof of that. These sarcophagi were made using clay, mud & straw.

Do you know that the genetic legacy of the Chachapoya resisted the Incan through today?

What is Peru famous for?

Machu Picchu

This iconic landmark, Machu Picchu is Peru’s pride. This iconic 15th century Incan city sits on a mountain ridge above Sacred Valley. This engineering marvel was the royal estate of Incan Emperor Pachacuti. Machu Picchu was used for religious, ceremonial, astronomical, and agricultural purposes based on the structures found on site. 

What is Machu Picchu Famous For?

The Spanish did not conquer as they never found Machu Picchu. There is no evidence that they reached this citadel or ever attacked it. Check out the 11 Reasons Why You Must Visit Machu Picchu At Least Once and leave with beautiful memories of this ancient city.

Do Incas Still Exist?

Yes, Incas still exist and their direct descendants can trace their roots to former Incan emperors. History.com says that the Incas were created by the Sun God. The Sun God sent his son, Manco Capac to Earth. Manco Capac killed his brothers and then led his sisters to Cusco.

Do you know that the descendants of 12 noble Incan families still live in Cusco, Peru?

Rainbow Mountains (Vinicunca)

Montana de Sientes Colores or Montana Colores is what the locals call this mountain. This mountain is on the road to Ausangate Mountain in Cusco. Acclimatization is necessary before hiking as this mountain is 17,000 feet above sea level.

How to Get Here?

Firstly, it is a two-hour drive from Cusco. Secondly, it is then a 3-mile walk through the valleys. If you are planning a trip here, check out the 11 Things To Know Before You Visit Rainbow Mountain.

For further reading, check out What To Expect When Hiking the Rainbow Mountains and Secrets of Rainbow Mountain. This mountain is on CNBC, Forbes, New York Times, Travel+Leisure, and Atlas Obscura. 

What food is Peru famous for?

Ceviche

This is Peru’s national dish. Ceviche is cured and spiced fish. It is best to eat Ceviche immediately upon serving to minimize the risk of food poisoning. 

Do you know that this dish has its national holiday?

On June 28, Peruvians celebrate their National Ceviche Day to honor this dish. Here’s How to Make Perfect Ceviche for you and your family. 

Lomo Saltado 

Lomo Saltado is unique because it combines Peruvian and Chinese cultures in a single dish. This dish is unique as it has Chinese influences as it is based on the Chifa culinary traditions of Peru. This dish is a combination of beef, onions, and tomatoes with a side of fries.

The first documented Chinese immigrants arrived in Peru in 1849 and worked in the sugar plantations, mines, and constructing roads. Once their contracts were over, they set up restaurants. These immigrants from Guandong brought their woks and cooking methods with them. A step-by-step recipe to make this dish is on Serious Eats. 

Cuy

The last must-try dish in Peru is Cuy. Cuy or Cobayo is a guinea pig. This delicacy also has its own national holiday, which is the second Friday in October. Guinea pigs have always played an important role in the Andean culture. Guinea pigs have always been for religious and medicinal purposes in the past. 

There are two methods of preparing this dish. The first is cuy chactado which involves squashing the guinea pig with stones and then frying it. The second is cuy al palo where it is first skinned and then roasted. 

Since there is a growing demand, there is a revival of farmed giant guinea pigs. This has brought empowerment and provided rural women with livelihood as women play a leading role in breeding these animals. 

What are the best hotels in Peru?

The top 3 best hotels to stay in Peru are Skylodge Adventure Suites, Arennas Mancora, and Titilaka.

Skylodge Adventure Suites

This hotel has 3 sleeping pods with magnificent views of the valley, the Milky Way, and Sacred Valley. To access the pods, a decent level of fitness and agility is necessary as they are 600 meters above the valley.

The interior is clean with minimal items in each pod. There are no gym facilities, steam rooms, or room service. Guests have to hike for an hour and a half to get to their pods. Meals are all planned in advance and delivered via backpacks. The review is in Telegraph UK.

Arennas Mancora

This hotel is on Las Pocitas beach which is a 20-minute drive from Mancora. This hotel is suitable for those who seek to get away from it all. This place is a paradise within paradise. The review of this hotel is in Telegraph UK.

Titilaka

Titilaka is a Luxury in Peru’s Other Magical Highlands. This full-service hotel on the shores of Lake Titicaca has 17 rooms spread over two floors. The things to do here include a road trip on the Aymara and Colla Routes which were part of the original Incan roadways. The review is in Telegraph UK.

Is Peru Worth Visiting?

Yes! Peru has a myriad of activities to suit any traveler, whether you are a foodie, historical buff or simply lazing around the beach. Check out the Top 5 Places to Visit in Peru, the Ten Things To Know Before You Visit Peru, and 12 Reasons Why You Should Go To Peru Now.

These are the 7 Things To Know Before You Go. Peru is one of the safest countries to visit in South America. We just need to take extra precautions and not leave our valuables unattended and be extra vigilant.

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This post is the ultimate guide to the hidden gems in Goa. We will explore 6 hidden gems as well as the best locations to stay in Goa for couples and families. The best hotels to stay in Goa is in this post as well. 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means, if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclaimer Policy for more information.

Where is Goa?

Goa is a state within the Konkan region in India. Goa has Maharashtra to its North, Karnataka to its East and South, and the Arabian Sea on its West. Being a former Portuguese colony, the culture is a unique mix of Hindu and Roman Catholic Christians. 

Due to this, the vibe in Goa is different from the rest of India. It is one of the most peaceful states in India. Goans are easy-going and acknowledge their Hindu roots. Goa is a hotspot for both international and domestic tourists. 

Its rich culture combined with an easy-going lifestyle makes it a popular tourist destination. For first-timers here, there is plenty to do such as visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Panjim. Or, one can visit the hidden gems in Goa and experience the beauty this state has to offer.

Goa can be divided into three areas which are North Goa, South Goa, and Central Goa. A further subdivision is between coastal areas and the interiors. The coast has beautiful beaches while the interiors are home to wildlife sanctuaries.

Do you know that Goa’s sister city is Hawaii? 

What is the best location to stay in Goa?

North Goa

North Goa is the supreme party scene in Goa. Tourists come here for its beaches, nightlife, and islands. The best beaches in North Goa are Baga and Calangute. Baga and Calangute are areas you want to consider if you enjoy the nightlife, traffic, and crowds.

There are plenty of restaurants, hotels, and hostels to suit your budget. Check out the 10 Best Restaurants in North Goa to suit your vibe and budget. CNN gives an excellent description of where you can stay, eat and play in North Goa.

Panjim

Panjim or Panaji is the capital and administrative city of Goa. This city is on the banks of the Mandovi River. The features of this city include terraced buildings, red-tiled roofs, and the riverside promenade.

The landmark which stands out is Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church. The church was a chapel for the Portuguese sailors from or to Lisbon. Sitting high on a hill, the church was the first sight the sailors from Lisbon saw as they came to Portuguese India. 

This church is home to an ancient bell retrieved from the ruins of Our Lady of Grace Church in Old Goa. Panjim has the honor of being one of the oldest cities in Asia as it was recognized as a city on 22nd March 1843.

This city is suitable for those seeking a city escape. Check out the Best Places to Stay in Panjim and the Best Restaurants in Panjim.

South Goa

South Goa is perfect for those seeking solace, peace, and calm. This district is the quieter neighbor of North Goa. The beaches are cleaner as it is less crowded. Another feature of South Goa is the relatively fewer things to do here. 

Check out the Best Places to Stay in South Goa and also the Best Restaurants to Eat in South Goa.

Usgalimal Rock Engravings

These engravings are believed to be 20,000 to 30,000 years old and are located on the banks of the Kushavati River. In the Hindu epic Ramayana, Kushavati is a city in the Kosala Kingdom. The carvings were discovered in 1993 according to the Goa Tourism Development. The locals knew about the carvings much earlier.

Do you know that these rock carvings were discovered by coincidence? 

What are the hidden gems in Goa?

Cumbarjua Backwater Canal

The first in our hidden gems in Goa is the Cumbarjua Backwater Canals. Cumbarjua is about 12 miles from Panjim. This is about a half hours drive. The name is from the Konkani words “kumbhars” who were potters who lived in the area. According to the locals, the island was once a peninsula. 

These backwater canals are the habitat of the Indian Mugger Crocodile. This 9 mile canal connects the Mandovi and Zuari rivers. A unique custom is the worship of crocodiles which is known as Maange Thapnee. This canal is on The Better India, India.com, and India Times.

Sinquerim Fort

The second in our hidden gems in Goa is Sinquerim Fort. Sinquerim Fort is also known as Fort Aguada. This fort is about 8 miles from Panjim which is a half hours drive. This 17th-century Portuguese fort overlooks the Arabian Sea on Sinquerim Beach. 

The name of this fort is derived from “Agua” which is the Portuguese word for water. There is a freshwater spring within the fort which made it a watering point for ships arriving from Portugal. This fort was built in 1612 to guard against Dutch and Maratha invasions in Goa. 

This fort is on CNN, Times Travel, and Live Mint.

Arvalem Caves

The third in our hidden gems in Goa are the Arvalem Caves. These caves are 20 miles from Panjim which is an hour’s drive. These caves are believed to be carved during the 6th century. The locals refer to these caves as Pandava Caves as the locals believed the Pandavas from Ramayana stayed here one point in time.

Arvalem Caves is featured on Ancient Origins, The Times of India, and India.com.

Netravali Bubbling Lake

The fourth in our hidden gems in Goa is the Netravali Bubbling Lake. The Budbud Tal and Budbudyachi Tali are some of the names of this mysterious lake. Tucked in a small village is Netravali Bubbling Lake. This place is 48 miles from Panjim which is an approximate 2 hours drive. 

The temple on this ground is Lord Gopinath and according to local belief is that once one chant “Om”, the lake starts to bubble. Another belief is that when one starts to clap, the bubbles appear. However, these are just assumptions and have no scientific evidence. This lake is featured on Times on India and India Times.

Betul Beach

The fifth in our hidden gems in Goa is Betul Beach. This beach is about 31 miles from Panjim. Betul beach is unique in that there is a stretch of sand which is the confluence of the Sal River to the Arabian Sea. If you are looking for a white sandy beach with a beautiful view, this beach is for you.

A short distance from the beach is Betul Fort. This fort, which is in ruins was built by Hawaldar of Balli on the orders of King Shivaji in 1679. This beach is on India.com and Hindustan Times. 

Chorla Ghats

The sixth and last in our hidden gems in Goa is the Chorla Ghats. The Chorla Ghats is a nature destination located on the borders of Goa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. There are several waterfalls to trek for the adventurous or you could simply enjoy nature.  

What are the best hotels in Goa?

The Leela Goa

This hotel spreads over 75 acres of sprawling greenery and lagoons. The Leela Goa is India’s only beach and riverside resort as it sits at the confluence of the Sal River and the Arabian Sea.

For an ultimate luxury experience, arrange a pick-up with their upgraded range of BMW X5 and 7 Series. This resort a wide range of rooms and suites to choose from. This resort is on The Telegraph UK. This hotel is also kid-friendly. 

Anahata Retreat

This beachfront resort is on Ashwem Beach. Anahata is the fourth chakra or the Heart Chakra. The name of the resort resonates with the meaning of the heart chakra which is balance, calmness, and serenity. This resort believes that yoga is for everybody.

Guests can join their yoga classes which are held throughout the week. This resort is on Telegraph UK, The Guardian, and Travel + Leisure.

W Goa

This 5-star resort on Vagator Beach has 121 guest rooms and villas. This resort is a short drive to key attractions such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Chapora Fort, and Mandrem Beach.

Do you know that Chapora Fort was featured in the Hindi movie Dil Chahta Hai?

Siolim House

Imagine staying in a 350-year-old home, that is Siolim House. This house was built using the ‘casa do sobrado’ style. Siolim House was once the home of the Governor of Macau and his family.

This manor also housed the Governor of Mozambique at one point. The story from the current owner is worth reading. Siolim House is on Telegraph UK, Femina India, and New York Times.

Ahilya by the Sea

This hotel sits in a quiet corner of Dolphin Bay. Guests have the choice of staying in an individual room or an entire villa. There are four villas to choose from which is Leela Villa, Sunrise Villa, Sunset Villa, or Arjun’s Tea House.

Some of the things to do are spend the day at the beaches nearby, visit Reis Margos Fort and visit Fundeacao Museum. 

Do you know that Reis Margos Fort predates Fort Aguada and once housed viceroys from or en route to Lisbon?

Is Goa worth visiting?

Yes! Absolutely! Goa is a kaleidoscopic blend of Indian and Portuguese culture. Check out the 19 Things To Know Before You Go To Goa before planning your trip there. 

Several like-minded businesses have formed a Collective of Responsible Tourism in order to practice and promote sustainable tourism. Goa has a laid-back lifestyle, 100 miles of coastline, and delicious food. Check out the Top 10 Foods to Try in Goa and the Best Restaurants in Goa.

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