Machu Picchu, Peru For many visitors to Peru and even South America, a visit to the lost 'Inca' city of Machu Picchu is the whole purpose of their trip. With its awe-inspiring location, it is the best-known and most spectacular archaeological site on the continent. Despite being swamped by tourists from June to September, it manages to retain an air of grandeur and mystery.

Cusco, Peru The continent's archaeological capital and oldest continuously inhabited city, Cuzco is now an important link in the South American travel network. Its legacy as the hub of the Inca Empire is readily apparent: Quechua-speaking Incan descendants crowd the Inca-built stone wall-lined city streets.

Sacred Valley of the Incas, Peru Is a valley in the Andes of Peru, close to the Inca capital of Cusco. It is fed by numerous rivers which descend through adjoining valleys and gorges, and contains numerous archaeological remains and villages. The valley was appreciated by the Incas due to its special geographical and climatic qualities. It was one of the empire's main points for the extraction of natural wealth, and the best place for maize production in Peru.