59 days in Lima Region, Ica Region & Cusco Region Itinerary

Encompassing the central section of Peru's coastline, the geographically diverse Lima Region remains a major destination for nature lovers and adventurers. Most Lima Region itineraries include visits to Lomas de Lachay, a national reserve containing a mist-fed ecosystem of varied plant and animal life unique to this part of the world. The region's lush landscapes also provide plenty of room for adrenaline-inducing sports, like whitewater rafting and paragliding. Visitors seeking a quieter holiday in the Lima Region concentrate on exploring the cities of Barranca, Lima, and Huaral--tourist-friendly places offering plenty of urban attractions and enough modern amenities to satisfy the most demanding of tourists.

Ica is a region (formerly known as a department) in Peru. It borders the Pacific Ocean on the west; the Lima Region on the north; the Huancavelica and Ayacucho regions on the east; and the Arequipa Region on the south. Its capital is the city of Ica.GeographyThe Ica Region has a remarkable geography. It is the only region of the southern coast formed by plains, also called coast plains, since the Andean Cordillera rise up inland. Some geological folds have determined the formation of dunes moving toward the sea, which form much of the Paracas Peninsula. Some isolated formations located at the southern part created the Marcona complex, with the biggest deposits of iron in the Pacific coast.Ica's configuration is due to the geomorphology of its two big and unique fluvial watersheds: the Pasco and Ica rivers. Also, it has a waterway called the Rio Grande, although its waters do not reach the ocean. Some waters are diverted for irrigation and agriculture in the provinces of Pampa, Nazca and Ingenio; the Rio Grande's final riverbed is dry since sand and dried lands absorb its limited resources. There are extensive deserts in Ica, such as the Lancha Pampas. Pozo Santo and Villacuri pampas are extremely hot areas. Strong and persistent winds called paracas are present and stir up large sandstorms.

Most visitors take a trip to Cusco Region for a chance to explore the eponymous city, capital of the mighty Incan Empire for over three centuries. Aside from discovering the World Heritage-listed city, which draws two million annual visitors, most Cusco Region tours involve visits to the legendary Machu Picchu. Known to many history buffs as the "Lost City of the Incas," these photogenic ruins remain one of the world's most visited archeological sites. A comprehensive Cusco Region vacation also includes an exploration of local cuisine, famed for specialties like the alpaca steak and roasted cuy (guinea pig).