Lima, which hugs the Pacific coastline of Peru , is a city with beautiful colonial architecture and a magnificent cathedral. And just a little south in the high dry deserts you can marvel at the strangely mysterious Nazca Lines from the air they are a true ancient marvel.

Good time to visit: November to April

Sights

In Lima , founded in the 1500’s by conquistador Francisco Pizarro, you can spend the day exploring the city’s colonial and modern sights. Visit the Plaza Mayor, City Hall, the baroque San Francisco Church , and the stunning cathedral, which dates back to 1555. Then in the evening savour the delights of the local cuisine at Las Brujas de Cachiche, a private colonial home built in 1912. South of the city in the province of Ica high on the desert plateau are the mysterious Nazca Lines. These are most likely a type of agricultural calendar to help regulate the planting and harvesting of crops, or perhaps some of the straight lines served as ancient sacred paths connecting huacas, or power spots. Regardless of why they were made, the Lines, with their beautiful animal designs and measuring up to 300m across, are among the strangest and most unforgettable sights in the country. From here the rest of Peru awaits you. To the east lies the Andes and the historic monuments of Cuzco and Machu Picchu , and the spectacular Amazon jungle.