For years, Peru had been a long-awaited destination on my bucket list. The allure of Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan city built in the 15th-century, was finally too great to ignore. This iconic landmark, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, has captivated travelers and history enthusiasts alike. But Peru’s appeal extends far beyond its most famous attraction. As I immersed myself in the country’s rich cultural heritage, I discovered a wealth of ancient ruins, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences that left me speechless.
A Memorable Trip to Peru
Peru, famously known as the ‘land of the Incas’, boasts an impressive history, with its Inca Empire being one of the largest and most prominent in the world at its peak. Cusco, the empire’s most important city, played a pivotal role in this era. Interestingly, three-quarters of the world’s Alpaca population can be found in Peru, a fact I personally experienced during my Lares Trek adventure. Beyond its stunning landscapes and cultural heritage, I discovered that the people and culture of Peru are truly fascinating, although I’ll save those stories for another time. Let me take you back to day one of my trip to Peru, where this unforgettable journey began. I was traveling with G Adventures, a reputable tour operator offering a range of tours in South America, including this Peruvian adventure. If you’re looking for help planning your next trip, be sure to check out my travel resource guide.
Day 1 – Lima
My journey began in Lima, the vibrant capital of Peru, situated on the Pacific coast where art, culture, and history converge. Nicknamed the ‘gateway’ to Peru, Lima is more than just an entry point – it’s a city that shines with its own unique charm.
Touring with G Adventures
I had the pleasure of meeting with G Adventures representatives to discuss my Peru tour. Founded in 1990, this company specializes in organizing small group-based travel adventures that connect like-minded individuals. Their expertise played a significant role in making my Peruvian experience truly unforgettable! The specific tour I took part in was… (rest of the sentence remains the same).
Day 2 – Cusco
As I stepped off the flight from Lima to Cusco, I was eager to acclimatize to the high altitude that would soon become a necessity for my next adventure – reaching Machu Pichu. The day offered a chance to explore this vibrant city, rich in history and culture, without rushing into the unknown. Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, is now famous for its archaeological remains, architecture, and talented artists and artisans. From handcrafted ceramics and clothing to traditional instruments, there’s an endless array of unique gifts to be found. But it’s not just the sights and crafts that make Cusco special – world-class restaurants and a magical nightlife ensure that there’s something for everyone in this enchanting city. A big thank you to Brendan Williams for joining me on this adventure and capturing its essence through his photography.
Day 3 – Ollantaytambo
As day three unfolded, I embarked on a full-day adventure to explore the captivating Sacred Valley in Ollantaytambo. The expert guidance from G Adventures allowed me to create lasting memories, marked by several standout experiences that lingered long after the trip concluded.
Ccaccaccollo Community & Women’s Weaving Co-Op Visit
As I immersed myself in the local culture, I had the privilege of observing traditional weaving and dyeing methods that give rise to one-of-a-kind clothing and mementos. Moreover, I gained valuable insights into the transformative impact of Planeterra’s weaving co-op on the community.
Cuyo Chico Pottery Making Demonstration
In the heart of Sacred Balley lies Cuyo Chico village, a rural haven where tradition meets commerce. Here, several families have come together to preserve their ancestral craft – traditional ceramics. Working with clay sourced from the surrounding area, they meticulously create an array of functional and decorative pieces, including bowls, plates, and more. Witnessing the artisans at work was a truly captivating experience, allowing us to not only appreciate the artistry but also purchase these unique items directly from the makers themselves.
Parwa Community Restaurant – The Sacred Valley
As I embarked on this G Adventures experience, I had the opportunity to support sustainable tourism by dining at the Parwa Community Restaurant, a farm-to-table program initiated by G Adventures and the Multilateral Investment Fund. The restaurant’s success is a testament to the impact of responsible travel. Following these experiences, I concluded my journey with the Ollantaytambo Storehouse Ruins and Hike, which left me invigorated! The challenging trek up to the Pinkuylluna Incan storehouses rewarded me with a breathtaking view of the Sacred Valley, making it well worth the effort. You can relive my Peru adventure by watching my trip vlog below or directly on YouTube for optimal quality.
Lares Trek Altitude Tips
Before embarking on the Lares Trek, it’s advisable to arrive in Cusco a couple of days early to acclimate to the high altitude. We did just that, spending a few days getting accustomed to the thin air before beginning our adventure.
To ensure a healthy and enjoyable trek, it’s essential to prioritize hydration by drinking plenty of water. However, be mindful of your sources – bottled or boiled water is the safest bet to avoid any potential health issues while hiking.
In addition to staying hydrated, there are a couple of local remedies that can help alleviate altitude sickness. Coca tea and chewing coca leaves are both well-known natural remedies for this common affliction. You’ll find these readily available throughout your journey.
Before departing on the trek, consider consulting with a doctor or pharmacist about obtaining a prescription for Diamox – it’s a medication specifically designed to help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
As we neared the end of our six-day Lares Trek, I had the opportunity to indulge in some extra hiking and exploration time. We made our way through the picturesque valley of Pumahuanca, where we encountered friendly local Quechua people, ancient Inca storehouses, and an abundance of Andean flora and fauna – including llamas and alpacas.
After a long day’s journey, we arrived in Pumahuanca and boarded a van to Ollantaytambo before transferring to the train that would take us to Aguas Calientes. A well-deserved night’s rest at our hotel awaited us, and it was a welcome respite from the rigors of the trek.
Day 7 – Machu Picchu
As I finally set foot in one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, I was struck by the sheer grandeur of Machu Picchu at sunrise. The day’s itinerary allowed for a leisurely guided tour, as well as ample time to explore the ruins on my own and with my guide. The option to hike up to the Sun Gate or Inca Bridge added an extra layer of excitement, allowing me to delve deeper into the remarkable architecture that has stood the test of time.While I had the privilege of reading about Machu Picchu in detail, nothing compares to experiencing it firsthand. As I wandered through the site’s over 150 buildings – including baths, temples, and houses – I couldn’t help but marvel at the ingenuity and skill of the ancient civilization that once called this place home.One fascinating fact that has stayed with me is the incredible feat of engineering that went into building Machu Picchu. Despite the massive stones used in construction weighing over 50 pounds each, it’s believed that hundreds of men transported them up the steep mountainside without the aid of wheels. The history and culture surrounding this site are nothing short of captivating, and I feel fortunate to have had a knowledgeable local guide share their insights with me.From the Inti Mach’ay cave to the Temple of the Water, the Temple of the Condor, and the Room of the Three Windows, every aspect of Machu Picchu’s rich history left an indelible mark on my psyche. I will carry this experience with me for as long as I live, and it has inspired me to continue exploring the world’s most incredible wonders.
Day 8 – Back To Lima
As I boarded the flight back to Lima from Cusco on day eight, I had an entire evening to myself, with no set itinerary in sight. The generous amount of free time granted by G Adventures was a blessing in disguise, allowing me to carve out some personal experiences and create my own unique memories. In hindsight, this proved to be the perfect opportunity to make up for any activities missed earlier on during the tour. If you’re like I was on day one, without a chance to explore Lima’s charms, then day eight presents itself as an ideal time to catch up on what you’ve been missing. Take advantage of it and treat yourself to a city tour, horse show or anything else that piques your interest.
Day 9 – Flight Home
As I prepared to leave Peru on day nine of my journey with G Adventures, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude and accomplishment. The experience had exceeded all my expectations, and I was already dreaming about the possibility of returning. The meticulous planning and organization that went into every aspect of the trip ensured a seamless and enjoyable experience for me and fellow travelers alike.
The highlight of my trip, without a doubt, was the opportunity to visit Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca citadel shrouded in mystery and intrigue. The allure of this fabled site had captivated me before I even left home, and it did not disappoint. Perched precariously high in the Andes mountains, Machu Picchu is a true marvel that can only be fully appreciated firsthand.
What struck me most was the sheer scale and majesty of the ancient architecture, which seemed to defy gravity and blend seamlessly into its surroundings. The experience was all the more profound knowing that this lost civilization had been hidden away for centuries before being rediscovered in 1911. I left Peru with a newfound appreciation for the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of this incredible country.