Machu Picchu
I’ll get this one out of the way! Yes, Machu Picchu lives up to the hype. The ruins and history are fascinating, but it’s the majestic surroundings that really make this sacred site one of the wonders of the world. Every room of the city was built with such intention: the way the stones fit, the direction of the sun, the formation of shadows and the corresponding shape to the mountains. The llamas that roam the grounds are just an added value! The only way to arrive is via hiking a trail or by the bus in Aguas Calientes that winds its way up the mountain.
Hike in the Mountains
If you do choose to hike, there are several options including the Inca, Salkantay, Lares, Choquequirao and the Vilcabamba Trail. The difficulty and number of days range, so you can opt for a shorter less strenuous hike or you can spend a week climbing your way through the mountains. Either way, the surroundings are spectacular and finishing in Machu Picchu will feel all the more rewarding.
A Rainbow Mountain
Recently discovered from the snow melting on the Andes Mountains, bright “rainbow” mountains have emerged. The colors are the result of exposure and erosion of the sedimentary mineral layers (calcium, iron, copper) after years of tectonic shifts and volcanic activity. Vinicunca is the original site and what most people consider “Rainbow Mountain.”
HOWEVER, there’s another option! Palccoyo Mountain is the alternative, but may not be for long! The hike is shorter and there’s a larger range of colorful mountains. The paths and welcome area are being built now in anticipation of crowds. So now is the time to go!
Huacachina
Huacachina, the only desert oasis in South America, is four hours south of Lima. The town is just a couple streets that loop around the lagoon. Backing up, Huacachina is surrounded by beautiful sand dunes. Dune buggies and sand boarding are the most popular activities here, but even if you’re not a daredevil, taking a walk through the desert and watching the sun set is absolutely magical.
Ceviche in Miraflores
In Lima or anywhere along the coast, order the ceviche. Peruvians have perfected this seafood dish, usually marinating the fish with lime juice and flavoring it with chilies. It’s most often served on lettuce with sweet potatoes. (You’ll find potatoes with almost everything!)
Pisco Sour Tasting
Pisco is an acquired taste but the sour concoction is a much more tame version (and in my opinion, tastier!) Pisco is made from grapes and then fermented into a spirit. If you go for a tasting, it’s similar to a wine tasting experience…but with shots of pisco. Otherwise, just order the different varieties at a local restaurant. Salud!
Coastal Activity
Peru has a varied Pacific Ocean coastline that stretches from Ecuador to Chile. Lima is located on the midpoint of Peru’s coastline and therefore is often enveloped in a thick fog. But when the fog rolls out, the dramatic cliffs and water views are stunning. On either side, beaches, rocks and desert sand make up the rest of the landscape.
Go surfing in Miraflores or Barranco, enjoy a beach day in Punta Sal, party in Mancora or see the “poor man’s Galapagos” on the Islas Ballestas.
Take a Tour
There are so many fantastic tour options in Peru. The convivence of having a guide, driver and local expert is worth the extra money. It’s also an opportunity to make friends and meet other travelers.
Take a city walking tour of Lima, a food-focused outing in Miraflores or hire a guide at Machu Picchu. Because really, what is the point if you’re not understanding the history and or getting a genuine glimpse of how locals live?
