Published 28th Jun. 2021
Reading time
The sprawling city of Lima, the depths of the Amazonian forests, the Andean peaks, the pre-Columbian ruins; There are so many facets to this country ! Here are the five best books to read before travelling to Peru.
1
Herge
Tintin's journey to Peru begins in the previous book : 'The Seven Crystal Balls' where we move from the world of ancient Egypt to that of the Andean Incas. In both the first and second book, there is a dream-like vision of Peru: Herge never set foot in Peru, but on your journey you follow in the footsteps of the young reporter. At the beginning of the 'Temple of the Sun ', Tintin and Captain Haddock set out in search of Professor Calculus who is to be sacrificed by Incas, and find themselves in the port of Callao. They pass through Jauga (real name: Jauja) in the Andes, where the Quechuan Indian Zorrino tells them that Calculus must be killed in a secret place, the Temple of the Sun. Maybe it's the ' Coricancha ', the ' golden temple ' of Cusco, the most sacred place of the Incan Empire, looted at the arrival of the Spaniards, and where a church stands today? Herge's references, which masterfully mix the Andes with the desert, or the Andes and the equatorial forest, leave it to the imagination.
Thibaud Perdrix
2
by Mario Vargas Llosa
We're at the end of the world. The Talara Air Base. Palomino Valero, a handsome guitar player, carried out his military service there. For some unknown reason, he deserted three days earlier. His lifeless body was found impaled on an old locust bean tree. "The scene is set. Lieutenant Silva and Sergeant Lithuania conduct the investigation, without the assistance of the base leader. Margo Vargas Llosa's lively language is a delight to read, making it impossible to put the book down.
3
by Corine Sombrun
It's the logbook of a real-life story. Corine works as a musician in London. After the loss of a loved one, she travels to the Amazon and learns about Ayahuaska and Andean shamanism. She tells us about her impressions, her experiences, her incredible transformation, without taboos or filters. With a sober, minimalist, and simple writing style, Corine invites us in and makes you feel as if you are with her in the forest. We fear for her, we laugh, we are amazed, irritated, our stomach turns, our minds open.
By
VERONIQUE DURRUTY
Leave tour buses and jostling crowds behind on a tailor-made adventure to Peru. Whether exclusive access to art collections or walks with local Andean farmers (and their llamas) in the Sacred Valley sound more up your street, every detail of your holiday is designed for you. We’ve got your accommodation covered, too, be it listening to the sounds of the jungle from a remote eco-lodge or chatting with locals in a homestay on Lake Titicaca’s shores. And thanks to our experienced in-country team and passionate Concierges (who are just a WhatsApp message away), your trip will run like clockwork from start to finish.
ENQUIRE NOWPractical advice and inspiration for your next trip
Peru is a country of incredible contrasts. Landscapes range from the sprawling Amazon Rainforest and cavernous canyons, to the soaring Andes Mountains punctuated by ancient Incan citadels.
14th December 2023 - Peru Food & Drink
From the dramatic peaks of the Andes to the lush vastness of the Amazon rainforest, Peru’s scenery makes a holiday here truly special. Natural beauty is
4th September 2023 - Peru The Natural World
Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are the undisputed king and queen on Peru’s chessboard of attractions. Elusive yet ubiquitous, scores of travellers are
21st November 2022 - Peru Adventure
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
