Deluxe Gastronomic Experiences in Cusco City
Discover why Peru is a cosmopolitan city, where you can enjoy unique and unforgettable experiences created to satisfy the senses, especially taste!
Lima: the gastronomic capital of America
Lima’s amazing culinary legacy inherited from the superb pre-Hispanic and colonial culinary traditions, and nourished by the occidental and oriental have made of Lima, the Gastronomic Capital of South America.
Qoyllur Rit´i: an original Cusco tradition
Find out more about an ancient religious festival held annually in honor of the Lord of Qoyllur Rit´I, which means Lord of Star Snow, at the Sinakara Valley in Cusco, the capital of Inca Empire.
Kuelap: The city amongst clouds
We invite you to discover the best kept secret in Peru, Kuelap, important archaeological site built by the Chachapoyas.
Machu Picchu was elected as a must destination to visit before you die
Machu Picchu became entitled to another international recognition. The ancient Inca citadel was chosen as the primary destination to be visited before dying in a contest organized by an online newspaper in the U.S., "The Huffington Post."
Tips to make the most of your visit to MACHU PICCHU
Machu Picchu, one of the world´s New Seven Wonders and Peru´s most visited attraction recently celebrated the 100th anniversary of its rediscovery by American explorer Hiram Bingham
Inti Raymi
The Inti Raymi or "Festival of the Sun" was the biggest festivity, most important, spectacular and magnificent celebrated during the Inca times. Today, the city of Cusco celebrates every June 24th the winter solstice.
Machu Picchu relics held by Yale return to Peru
After a near-100-year sojourn in the U.S., the first batch of 366 pieces of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu arrived in Peru, following the initiatives taken by the Government of Peru.
Machu Picchu: 100 Years Amazing the World
Metropolitan Touring has put together a special group departure to visit Machu Picchu on the anniversary date of its discovery by the American historian Hiram Bingham, who arrived to the ancient Inca citadel one hundred years ago, on July 24th 1911.
Delfin Amazon Cruises launches the NEW Delfin I
Delfin Amazon Cruises has announced the launching of the NEW Delfin I With only 4 cabins, it is be the most luxurious and comfortable vessel in the Upper Amazon.
Perfect Match: Peru and Machu Picchu plus Two South American Icons
We’re delighted to take advantage of the new flights introduced by LAN airlines – Lima to Easter Island & Lima to Iguazú – by creating two new exciting tours which combine these icons of South America. Find our more.
Mario Vargas Llosa Wins Noble Prize for Literature
The renowned Peruvian writer Mario Vargas Llosa was declared winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature 2010. Explore the writer’s vision and history of Lima with us, using a new guide recently published by PromPeru.
You Heard it Here First: Peruvian Criollo Music Day
On October 31st, Peru celebrates the Criollo Music Day, a celebration that has gained in popularity year on year, reflecting one of the best expressions of the rich process of cultural fusion that characterizes Peru. Join us!
Bon Appetit - Peru's Responsible Gastro Boom
Peru is world famous for its archeological richness, colorful traditions, and for being home to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: Machu Picchu. In addition to these wonders that make it a culturally rich country.
Keep the Kids Happy in Cusco
Now is the time to start considering Cusco an option for a family vacation! The charm of Cusco that attracts adults so much is also appealing to children. It is just a matter of taking a look at trip attractions and planning according to the younger ones. The options abound!
Eco friendly Tips when Traveling in Peru
Peru is a growing tourist destination. Machu Picchu, the so-called Lost City of the Incas, is the biggest draw, with more than 850,000 visitors last year.
Peru´s Awe-inspiring Human Diversity and Traditions
Peru, in its extraordinary diversity of living resources and ecosystems, has an impressive diversity of cultures, which include 14 linguistic families and at least 44 different ethnic groups, of which 42 are located in the Peruvian Amazon.
Peru´s Living Cultures: beyond the Inca cultural legacy
Share with us the spirit of the living cultures of the Andes of southern Peru, whose people harbor traditions dating back millennia, part of several tourism projects that allow travelers to observe and participate in their day-to-day lives.
Trip Advisor´s visitors agree: Peru is tops
The hugely-popular website Trip Advisor recently published its Travelers’ Choice Awards. Its users voted two of Peru’s main attractions as the top attractions in Central and South America for 2010. Can you guess which attractions they are?
Ollantaytambo: Inca community in the Sacred Valley
The Inca community of Ollantaytambo dates from the late 15th century and has some of the oldest continuously occupied dwellings in South America. This town and Inca archaeological site is close to Cusco, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Today, it offers all the modern facilities and services a visitor needs.
Adventure Activities at the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is not only home to picturesque Andean communities, impressive archaeological sites and amazing landscapes. Its mild weather and distinct geography make it ideal for practicing exciting activities and outdoor sports such as River Rafting, Mountain Biking, Hiking, Horseback Riding, fishing…
Colca and Cotahuasi Canyons: two of the deepest canyons in the world
The Colca and Cotahuasi Canyons are home to the legendary Andean Condors, that soar over impressive mountains, adorning the skies in southern Peru. The area of Colca is also the ideal place for outdoor activities like mountaineering, rafting, cycling and trekking…
Virgen de Chapi - Arequipa´s Festivity
On May first, the faithful walk into the desert at night, towards the Sanctuary of Chapi, 2420 meters above sea level, as a homage to the Virgin of Purification. The next day, in Chapi, the virgin is carried in procession over carpets of petals of flowers.
The Peruvian Paso Horse, the ultimate riding pleasure
The Peruvian Paso Horse is undoubtedly, one of the most representative symbols of tradition in Peru. Considered one of the smoothest gaited horses in the world, the Peruvian Paso horse came to Peru with the Spanish conquistadors led by Francisco Pizarro, in 1532.
Peruvian Easter Week
Peru is mainly a Catholic country, and as such, Easter is a real mayor event, not only to commemorate the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, but also the varied expressions of traditions that fluorish in many locations, particularly in the Andes, where Easter week represents the height of religious feeling for its people.
The Inca Trail: An intense adventure
Peru’s Export and Tourism Promotion Board (PromPerú) announced that a jury of the UK's top explorers, adventurers, and award-winning writers has selected the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu as one of the ten world’s greatest adventure trips, ranking fifth on that list.
The Marinera - Peru´s beautiful dance
The Marinera, a romantic and sensuous dance that uses handkerchiefs as simple yet elegant props, is based on the courtship of young lovers. The dance originated to honor the Marine Corps of Peru, in northern Peru, and is currently perhaps the country's most popular dance.
Tourists entering Peru will not pay taxes for their adventures equipment
With the intent to promote adventure tourism in Peru and increase the number of foreign visitors, the Peruvian government reduced the requirements that had to meet visitors to enter Peru. This will allow foreign tourists visiting our country for less than 12 months; enter with their adventure sports equipment without paying taxes.
New Inca trail access to Machu Picchu has been discovered
The director of the Archaeological Park of Machu Picchu, Fernando Astete, reported that there are new findings in the northeastern part of the Inca citadel, such as underground water sources, water accumulation systems and others with agricultural importance.
National Geographic names Peru as top travel site
The National Geographic has named Peru, especially the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco, one of the 25 best new trips in the world for 2010. In its November Adventure issue, the popular American publication cited Cusco's Sacred Valley, the Cachiccata village, a trek to Machu Picchu and the ancient Inca terraces.
Inkaterra´s Unu Spa voted as favorite
Unu Spa provides a unique concept that combines the classic nurturing of a SPA with a mystical Andean approach. All products are 100% natural, derived from local botanical extracts, providing a pleasing spiritual, sensual and soothing experience.
Festivity of the Month: Lord of the Miracles
The Lord of the Miracles, also called the Christ of Pachacamilla or dark-skinned Christ, is a painting of Jesus in the cross, now placed at the main altar of the Sanctuary of Nazarenes in Lima, Peru. It is very venerated by Peruvians and foreigners around the world, who consider it miraculous.
Oldest Tomb of the Mochica Culture found in Northern Peru
Peruvian archaeologists discovered the remains of a nobleman or warrior with religious and military powers in tomb #15 of the archaeological complex Huaca Rajada-Sipan. This could be the oldest ancestor of the Sipan Dynasty
Festivity of the Month: International Spring Festival
During the month of September, La Libertad, in the northern region of Perú, celebrates the International Spring Festival. Its capital, Trujillo, is the third largest city in Peru, one of the first cities founded by Spanish conquerors in South America.
Tips for Responsible Travel
Travel-size packages seem quick and convenient, but all extra packaging takes a heavy toll on the environment. Metropolitan Touring Peru recommends filling re-usable containers with the products you need instead of buying additional sundries. Travel light and take only what you need.
Cusco Ranked Third in Best Latin American Cities Contest
In the contest “World’s Best”, organized by Travel & Leisure magazine, the Andean city of Cusco in southeastern Peru ranked third among cities from Central and South America. The first spot was granted to Buenos Aires, Argentina and the second place to Oaxaca, Mexico.
Festivity of the Month: Saint Rose of Lima - Peru´s Patron Saint
Saint Rose of Lima was the name given to a seventeenth-century lady who lived in Lima, Isabel Flores de Oliva, who felt a great religious vocation and spent her life caring for the sick and enduring harsh penitence to resist sin.
Unknown Inca Trail towards Machu Picchu recently found
Peruvian and Spanish archaeologists have found an unknown Inca Trail leading towards the citadel of Machu Picchu, which seems to be of a religious nature. The finding was made by archaeologists from Cusco’s Regional Direction of Culture.
Tips for Responsible Travel
Consider these responsible traveler tips after traveling: Distribute your responsible travel tips. In addition to telling family and friends about the wonderful memories of your trip, consider also sharing tips on how they too can positively impact the World Heritage sites while having an amazing journey.
Caral Ancient City a UNESCO World Heritage
Peru's Sacred City of Caral, the oldest center of civilization in the Americas, was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The 5000-year-old 626-hectare archaeological site is situated on a dry desert terrace overlooking the green valley of the Supe River.
FESTIVITY OF THE MONTH: Virgen del Carmen Festival - Paucartambo
Four hours from Cusco, in the town of Paucartambo, thousands of devotees hold a festival in honor of the Virgen del Carmen, known locally as Mamacha Carmen, patron saint of the mestizo population.
Tips for responsible travelers
If you’re about to go away on your holidays to any destination with beautiful natural environment and wildlife; and you think you will probably come home with a few souvenirs, here is some advice.
Lima Airport: the Best in South America
The Jorge Chavez International Airport of Lima was chosen as the Best Airport in South America in 2009, as per a study of the British consultant Skytrax Research, specialized in airport matters.
The Inti Raymi festival in Peru honors the sun
Inti Raymi, one of the largest festivals in the Americas, celebrates Inca traditions in honor of Inti – the Inca Sun God. The Inca celebrations take place during the winter solstice, in a rite to make the sun god return.
Inkaterra´s hotels in Tambopata - Madre de Dios
Jose Koechlin, Inkaterra’s CEO, revealed that a new hotel focused exclusively on the bird watching segment will open next month, very close to Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica Tambopata Lodge. “This is a new product for a very specific segment”, said Mr. Koechlin.
Gastronomy attracts 42% of the tourists to Peru
As per information received from the Vice-president of the Gastronomy Sub-committee of Lima’s Chamber of Commerce, 42% of the tourists that arrive to Peru come motivated by its gastronomy, considered among the best in the world.
Tips for Responsible Travel
One of the best things about traveling is making connections with people from different cultures, in an authentic and mutually enjoyable way.
For Nature Explorers: The Galapagos Islands & the Deep Amazon Rainforest
On a 15-day specially designed itinerary, explore exhilarating UNESCO Natural Heritage sites, unspoiled National Parks and embrace the New Wonder of the World: Machu Picchu… all in one journey. This is a truly unique and unforgettable combination specially designed for nature lovers.
Festivity of the Month: Festival of the Virgin of Chapi
Every year, thousands of pilgrims cross the desert from the city of Arequipa to the sanctuary of Chapi to worship the image of the Virgin of Purification, today known as the Virgin of Chapi. In 1790, the parish priest of Pocsi, Juan de Dios José Tamayo, tried to move the small image to another community and failed, reportedly because the statue suddenly became too heavy to be moved.
Tourism to Peru grows 8% in the first four months of 2009
Inbound tourism to Peru has remained dynamic, with an average growth of eight percent, during the first four months of 2009. The preferred destination for foreign tourism continues to be Cusco, followed in preference by the Peruvian Rainforest and the Northern beaches.
Tips for Responsible Travel
Write to your tour operator or hotel with any comments or feedback about your holiday, and especially include any suggestions on reducing environmental impacts and increasing benefits to local communities. If you've promised to send pictures or gifts to local people remember to do so, many are promised and not all arrive!
Machu Picchu - New World Wonder
This month Machu Picchu dresses up to celebrate the third anniversary of its gaining a place among the New Seven Wonders of the World, the worldwide contest organized by the New 7 Wonders Foundation.
The world talks about the renowned Peruvian Food
During the last months, Peruvian cuisine is worldwide recognized and varied tourist destinations have been the highlight of a series of articles and reports published by prestigious news sources around the world like the New York Times, Saveur and National Geographic Traveler.
Peru: 5th most biologically-diverse country on earth
Peru’s extraordinary diversity of living resources and ecosystems, as well as its mountains, deserts, jungles, rivers and sand dunes that provide excellent conditions for agriculture, rank it among the five most biologically diverse countries on earth.
Fundación Galápagos has been chosen by Coca Cola to participate in the campaign “Every bottle has a story” for its commitment to making a positive difference to the Islands
Metropolitan Touring is one of South America’s most known and respected travel companies, providing unrivalled service to our guests for nearly 60 years. Along with our operations in Ecuador, Peru, Argentina, Chile and Colombia, we also own and operate the finest ships for Galapagos Island cruises - the M/V Santa Cruz, Yacht Isabella II and Yacht La Pinta - as well as the Finch Bay Eco Hotel. Come explore with us!
We take immense pride in our Galapagos cruise explorations, during which our guests experience the ever-changing ecological paradise of the islands. Our Galapagos cruises provide opportunities to walk, swim, snorkel, photograph and observe the archipelago’s amazing wildlife in the company of expert naturalist guides. Our Galapagos cruises are characterized by the highest standards of comfort, cuisine and service on board, combining these elements to provide solo-travelers, families and small groups with an unforgettable exploration of ‘the enchanted isles.’
So, pack your bags and come explore with us for a Galapagos cruise of a lifetime!
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