Teaching Abroad in Peru Overview: The scenic attractions are too vast to list but the heavy hitters are Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, the Andes mountains and enough Incan ruins to have you seriously consider purchasing your own headdress and loincloth. Peru will surprise you with its amazing skiing, (both on sand and in snow) and its tranquil coastline. There is everything for the outdoorsy type, but for those English teachers working in Peru who don't like to risk injury or engage in heart-pumping, adrenaline-inducing activities, Peru has you covered as well. Cities like Lima offer a dazzling array of colorful street life, Spanish architecture and cosmopolitan restaurants and cafes. Village squares offering festivals and Catholic feast days will be a goldmine for those interested in pageantry, crafts and some truly one-of-a-kind people watching.
Interesting Facts About Peru
Outside Arequipa, Nevado Ampato was a sacred mountain to the Incas, who climbed it to offer human sacrifices as gifts to the gods.
During the mid -19th century, mineral-rich guano (seabird droppings) accounted for as much as 80% of Peru's national revenue.
There are almost 4,000 native varieties of Peruvian potatoes.
Peru has the most breeding avian species of any country in the world.
The Mayo River Valley in the department of San Martín has been dubbed "the land of orchids" where one can find the Cattleya rex, considered a symbol of the region's wildflowers.
Highlights of Working Abroad in Peru
Trek to Machu Picchu- deservedly world-famous trails to ancient Inca Ruins.
Go on a river running adventure (white water rafting) on the Rio Tambopata and the rivers around Arequipa.
Go sandboarding at Huacachina by sliding down enormous dunes in the desert. Feast on roast cuy (guinea pigs) - they're not just pets anymore!
Take trip to Islas Flotantes - artificial islands made entirely from reeds.
Have a go playing Sapa - a traditional Peruvian bar game and a great way to make some friends!
Festivals in Peru Inti Raymi - June 24th
This festival has been a tradition for Peruvians since the Incas became concerned that the sun might one day disappear forever. Over 200,000 people gather for this winter solstice to entice the Sun God, Wiracocha, to return. It is a three hour ceremony held in the ancient Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman, only a short distance from Cusco. Be sure not to miss the re-enactment with costumes, speeches in Quechua, the Inca tongue, the parade of an Inca high priest in golden throne, and choreographed traditional dances.
