The desire to experience the legendary Inca Trail burns bright in every adventurer, but time, fitness, or permit availability can sometimes get in the way. Enter the Short Inca Trail (2 Days / 1 Night), the perfect, bite-sized epic that packs all the magic, mystery, and jaw-dropping scenery of the classic trek into one incredible […]
If you are dreaming of walking the historic stone paths of the Incas but are short on time, the 1-Day Inca Trail Trek is the ultimate compromise. This express itinerary lets you lace up your boots, hike the most scenic final section of the classic trail, and walk directly through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti […]
Essential Peru travel information, local insights, and practical planning tips for your bucket-list journey. THiking the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a transformative, once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Because the Peruvian government strictly regulates the trail to protect its ancient heritage, you cannot simply lace up your boots and hike it independently. You must book your […]
Fine Dining / Premium Tier 1. Chicha por Gastón Acurio 2. Cicciolina 3. LIMO Peruano Nikkei 4. MAP Café Mid-Range Tier 1. Morena Peruvian Kitchen 2. Kusykay Peruvian Craft Food 3. Pachapapa 4. KION Peruvian Chinese Budget / Casual Tier 1. Chakruna Native Burgers & Salad 2. Jack’s Café 3. Mercado Central de San Pedro […]
For most travelers, Cusco is the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. However, the city itself functions as a living museum of Incan and Colonial history. To get the most out of your stay, and to allow your body to acclimatize to the 3,399-meter (11,152-foot) altitude, it’s best to structure your first 48 […]
Choosing where to lay your head in Cusco is about far more than just finding a bed. At 3,400 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level, your hotel choice plays a massive role in how well you acclimatize, relax, and experience the ancient capital of the Incas. Cusco boasts an incredible range of accommodations, from spectacular […]
If you are planning a trip to Peru in June, you are about to witness the ultimate crown jewel of Andean culture: the legendary Inti Raymi festival. Held every year on June 24, this spectacular celebration transforms the entire city of Cusco into a living, breathing stage of ancient Inca majesty. The History Behind the […]
Cusco is world-famous for its ancient Inca history and breathtaking treks, but once the sun goes down behind the Andes, the ancient city transforms into one of South America’s most vibrant nightlife hubs. Because Cusco attracts an energetic crowd of global backpackers and adventure travelers, the party scene here is legendary. Whether you want to […]
If you are planning a trip to Cusco, there is one item you need in your pocket: the Boleto Turístico (Cusco Tourist Ticket). Think of it as your all-access pass to the heart of the Incan Empire. Instead of buying individual entry tickets at every single ruin or museum, this unified ticket bundles Cusco’s absolute […]
History, Highlights & Travel Tips About the Sacred Valley The Sacred Valley of the Incas, locally known as the Valle Sagrado, is a breathtaking region that begins just outside of Cusco in the mountain town of Pisac. Stretching all the way to the historic stronghold of Ollantaytambo, this fertile valley is perfectly nestled between the […]
Welcome to the Living Inca Town. Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Ollantaytambo (or simply Ollanta to locals) sits roughly 60km from Cusco and just 32km from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). While thousands of travelers pass through every single day exclusively to catch the train to Machu Picchu, treating […]
Market, Ruins, and Sacred Valley Logistics Only a short, scenic drive from Cusco, the vibrant town of Pisac serves as the magnificent gateway to the Sacred Valley. Famed for its sprawling artisan market and the breathtaking Inca fortress towering high atop the cliffs, Pisac offers an enchanting mix of living history and deep culture. In […]
Essential route logistics, altitude safety tips, and expert planning notes for your journey to Vinicunca. Overview Vinicunca, widely known as Rainbow Mountain, is one of Peru’s most striking geological features. Rising to an elevation of 5,036 meters (16,522 feet), this high-altitude landscape is famous for its vibrant stripes of turquoise, lavender, gold, and terracotta. These […]
Which Machu Picchu Tour Is Right for You? Arrive by Duration Best for Recommended tour Trek – Classic Inca Trail 4 days / 3 nights First-time visitors, the iconic route Classic Inca Trail 4D Trek – Classic Inca Trail 7 days / 6 nights Hikers wanting the full archaeological route Classic Inca Trail 7D Trek […]
As of June 1, 2024, the Sun Gate is open to visitors hiking from Machu Picchu. The round-trip hike takes about 2 hours (approximately 1 hour each way) up a steep stone staircase, but the panoramic views are well worth the effort. To do this hike, you must purchase the Machu Picchu Circuit 1-C ticket, […]
So, you are planning to trek the famous Inca Trail or any Alternative Trek to Machu Picchu? Proper preparation is the key to a safe, comfortable, and successful journey through the Andes. This comprehensive packing guide provides an expert breakdown of every piece of gear required for the region’s high-altitude terrain and unpredictable microclimates. Our recommendations […]
Peruvians don’t just travel on llamas as most people think, they also have planes, and good ones at that! There are domestic flights every day at almost every hour. However, some of these airlines are more or less dependable regarding flight arrival times. See below for detailed information about Flight Companies in Peru. There are […]
When it comes to your precious vacation time and money, spending time carefully planning your trip will help ensure the vacation of your dreams. The whole process can and should be a fun part of the overall experience! The following are ten tips are to help you plan the perfect vacation and help you make […]
A tour of Sandoval Lake is a nature lovers must see. The Peruvian Amazon is a magical mysterious region, the perfect place for a romantic getaway or a jungle adventure. When you imagine the Amazon Jungle in Peru, one does not necessarily think of luxury accommodations, but these are available if you so desire, with […]
As expected, Peru has many things to offer, a vast majority are centered in Cusco. Cusco and the Sacred Valley have an abundance of history and natural wonders. There is no shortage of things to do, like archeology wherever you look, beautiful old churches, museums, green and abundant valleys, hiking trails, horseback riding, and even […]