A visit to Machu Picchu is a must. No amount of hype or build up can prepare you for that first, unforgettable sight

Alpamayo and Huascaran Climb

At 6,769m in height Huascaran is the highest mountain in Peru and the second highest in South America and forms part of the Huascaran World Heritage Area. The peak dominates the skyline above the town of Huarez, which is the main base for approaching the Cordillera Blanca Huascaranis the final objective of this expedition, packed with Alpine climbing.

Across the Divide has helped to rediscover otherwise neglected ruins and you will get to see sights normally only viewed by locals

Amazon: Boat with the Locals.
What's the best way to experience Amazonian culture? Certainly not on the luxury liners that ply this river. So hop aboard the two- and three-decked riverboats that are often the only regular transportation for people living in small towns on the Amazonian tributaries. Ucayali, Maraqsn and Huallaga Rivers. It's not a relaxing journey: People come aboard withanimals, children, and anything else that needs to be moved (and we mean anything). On the top deck, passengers sling hammocks for what can be a journey of several days. Pass the time by swapping stories with the locals and watching the slow pace of life on the river.

Shot the rapids in the Andes.
Looking for white water and white knuckles — without hordes of pampered tourists? Check out the Apurmmac and Tambopata Rivers: Water comes crashing out of the Andes, making for a head-spinning ride. Both rivers offer multi-day adventures starting in the mountains and ending in the rain forest, with tons of wildlife viewing along the way and beach camping at night. The Apurmmac is technically the source of the Amazon, though most expeditions begin in the mountains west of Cuzco and end in the Apurmmac Reserve. Tambopata expeditions put in near Lake Titicaca and end in the Tambopata Reserve, where you can take a break from camping in a jungle lodge.

Colca Canyon: Go Deep.
Think the Grand Canyon is deep? Ha! A few hours north of Arequipa, Colca Canyon makes Arizona's ditch look like a pothole. You'll go for the views, but you'll stay for the hospitable people who cling to their ancient farming traditions. The women are especially striking with their delicately embroidered blouses and gaily decorated straw hats. Although one- and two-day tours are available from Arequipa to"El Cruz del Condsr" (the Condor's Cross), an overlook famed for frequent views of Andean condors, adventurous hikers will continue to the remote village ofCabanaconde. Here, a few rustic, family-owned hostelries will provide a bed and information about trails into the heart of the Colca.