Cusco

Nosh on some traditional aji de gallina and wash it all down with some Inca Cola at Los Candiles Restaurant in central Cusco before exploring all that this gorgeous mountain city has to offer. In the evening, weave your way through the maze of cobblestone streets that overflow with people out for a good deal with the local vendors. Don’t forget a hat made from alpaca wool--it will keep you cool once the sun goes down--and an artists’ rendition of the cityscape tightly rolled into a cardboard tube for easy transport back home. Watching the tourists walking alongside the locals was quite a site to see and many were all too eager for a photograph and some soles (Peruvian currency) in return. Charming, captivating, and unforgettable, Cusco is a place I’d gladly return.

Peru’s best-known hike visited by thousands of tourists every year. The classical 43-km trek leading to the Sacred Inca City of Machupicchu combines the visit of mysterious archaeological sites, amazing mountain scenery and lush cloud forest rich in Andean flora and fauna. Machupicchu is reached at sunrise on the fourth day. Terra Quechua offers a diverse combination of traditional and alternative tours, treks, and adventure tourism. Traditional tours include sites such as the mysterious lost city and famous “New World Wonder” Machu Picchu, the Colonial and Incan remains in and around Cusco proper, the agricultural laboratory of Moray and the Maras Saltmines. We also feature adventure tourism such as rafting, bungee jumping, and mountain-biking. There are a variety of established or alternative treks spanning from the snowy mountaintops to the humid jungle. Here you can discover the glacial alpine peaks of Salkantay and Ausangate and the impressive Vilcanota and Apurimac rivers. We also operate in Puno, where you can sail the Titicaca, the word’s highest navegable lake, and explore the the floating islands of Uros, and the Sillustani archeological remains, a legacy of the Tiahuanaco civilization. For people who share our spirit of conservation and enviromental consciousness, we offer tours including stays in the National Park of Manu (the “Biodiversity Capital of the World”) or Tambopata Natural park.

ew places in the world nature shows so magical conjugation of a vibrant forest, winding rivers, huge swamps, forming lush sustainable ecosystems “Aguajales”, this is why Puerto Maldonado is known as the capital of the Biodiversity of Peru.

While Peru inevitably evokes images of Machu Picchu and the Inca empire, the country is also riddled with archaeological sites that are a legacy of even more ancient times. The Inca empire was a recent arrival during the process of cultural development in the Andes during the pre-Hispanic era, and the history of the Incas barely accounts for a century within the 20,000 years of human occupation of Peruvian territory. Much earlier than the Incas and while civilizations like the Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Indian, and Chinese (3000 and 2000 B.C.E.) flourished, the city of Caral, located north of the city of Lima, was built; this was the first American expression of a preceramic urban settlement with monumental architecture in an area greater than 10 hectares. Later, in the northern highlands, the Chavin achieved significant advances in architecture, engineering, and agriculture. Along the north coast, the Moche civilization (200 B.C.E.-700 C.E.) is famous for its realistic pottery (portraits carved into pots and gourds) and its pyramid-shaped temples.

Itinerary Overview: Day 01: Mollepata - Soraypampa(Camping). Day 02: Soraypampa - Chaullay or Colpapampa (Camping). Day 03: Chaullay - La Playa (Cloud Forest) (Camping). Day 04: Playa - Llactapata - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes (Overnight Aguas Calientes). Day 05: Aguas Calientes - Machupicchu - Cusco Day 06: Cusco/Puerto Maldonado/Ecolodge/Monkey Island (Overnight Puerto Maldonado Lodge) Day 07: Ecolodge/ Sandoval Lake (Overnight Puerto Maldonado Lodge) Day 08: Ecolodge / Canopy and Zip Lining (Overnight Puerto Maldonado Lodge) Day 09: Ecolodge / Parrot’s Clay Lick /Puerto Maldonado / Cusco

It may be somewhat of an acquired taste (may want to use some hot sauce), it’s something you just have to do in Cusco or the Sacred Valley!

Inca Trail and Lake Titicaca. This is one of the favourite packages. 13 days include: Cusco, the Sacred Valley, the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca. These are the most important and fascinating places to visit in Peru. Classic tour of Peru, the Sacred Valley and the lost city of Machu Picchu, the floating reed islands and the ancient communities of Lake Tititcaca. Visit some of Lake Titicacas islands and their communities that have recieved tourism gracefully whilst preserving their way of life and customs. We fly to Cusco, where the Inca left their reminders of their Empire everywhere, with their precise stone work and carvings. From the spanish colonial era, a beautiful cathedral and charming colonial churches and neighbourhoods using inca stone to rebuild in their style of their times. We will visit the huge monolithic ruins in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. This tour is full of archaeological and cultural treasures. Boat on Lake Titicaca, submerge yourself in the agricultural life with a homestay in the small village of the Amanti Island. Meander through the charming cobble stoned streets of Cusco, work up a sweat trekking mountain passes along the Inca trail, investigate the ancient monoliths, relics and authentic villages. This is all experienced with a backdrop of stunning natural landscapes of the mythical Andes mountains. Inca Trail Machu : http://www.incatrailmachu.com/en/inca-trail-and-lake-titicaca

Inca Trail and Lake Titicaca. This is one of the favourite packages. 13 days include: Cusco, the Sacred Valley, the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca. These are the most important and fascinating places to visit in Peru. Classic tour of Peru, the Sacred Valley and the lost city of Machu Picchu, the floating reed islands and the ancient communities of Lake Tititcaca. Visit some of Lake Titicacas islands and their communities that have recieved tourism gracefully whilst preserving their way of life and customs. We fly to Cusco, where the Inca left their reminders of their Empire everywhere, with their precise stone work and carvings. From the spanish colonial era, a beautiful cathedral and charming colonial churches and neighbourhoods using inca stone to rebuild in their style of their times. We will visit the huge monolithic ruins in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. This tour is full of archaeological and cultural treasures. Boat on Lake Titicaca, submerge yourself in the agricultural life with a homestay in the small village of the Amanti Island. Meander through the charming cobble stoned streets of Cusco, work up a sweat trekking mountain passes along the Inca trail, investigate the ancient monoliths, relics and authentic villages. This is all experienced with a backdrop of stunning natural landscapes of the mythical Andes mountains. Inca Trail Machu : http://www.incatrailmachu.com/en/inca-trail-and-lake-titicaca

Peru Treks - An in-depth exploration of the highlights of Southern Peru. Visit Peru, it is an extraordinary and unique experience, when visiting the main architectural, archaeological and natural sites, admire the work of the long gone ancient Peruvian cultures where you can still feel their presence and spirit. Get excited as you take in the beauty of the breathtaking Peruvian cities of Cusco, Arequipa and Puno, where there are many fabulous sites and things to do, as well as the classic sites of: Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley in Cusco, El Misti, Colca Canyon in Arequipa, and the stunning Lake Titicaca in Puno which is surrounded by tales of folklore lived by many great cultures. Peru Treks: http://www.incatrailmachu.com/en/peru-treks

The Popularity of the Inca Trail and the scarcity of available spots have led to the opening of several alternative hikes of varying length and difficulty. The three to five day Salkantay Trek is named for the 6,270 meter (20,500 feet) peak of the same name. It begins at Mollepata, four hours by road from Cusco, and is a strenuous hike that goes through a 4,800 meter (15,700 feet) pass. The Salkantay excursion joins the Inca Trail at Huayllabamba. (http://www.incatrailmachu.com/en/travel-blog/hiking-to-machu-picchu)

When to Go to Machu Picchu Winter (June through August) means cooler, drier weather in the Andean highlands, it is peak tourist season and coincides with summer vacations in North America and Europe. This time is the best though the busiest time to go on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or any kind of trekking holiday in the Andes. (http://www.incatrailmachu.com/en/travel-blog/machu-picchu-the-inca-trail-planner)

Trekking Inca Trail & Machu Picchu - On the fourth day we reach Machu Picchu through the sun gate, and you have time explore the site on your own. If you like you can meet up with the rest of the group and have lunch in the picturesque town of Aguas Calientes. It takes an hour on foot to get to town. It’s a lovely descending walk in which you have the chance to take some beautiful pictures. Alternatively you can take the shuttle bus, which takes 20 minutes. You also get the chance to visit the local hot springs (just what you need after a 4 day trek!). On the fourth night you spend the night in a comfortable hostel, where you can enjoy a hot shower. Website: http://www.incatrailmachu.com/en/trekking-the-inca-trail-and-machu-picchu

Activities: Camping, Trekking and Hiking Locations: Cusco - Machu Picchu, Ausangate, Lares Valley, Choquequirao, Vilcabamba, Salkantay, Huchuy Qosqo and the Inca Trail. Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Cotahuasi, Misti & Chachani. Huaraz, Santa Cruz. Trekking in Peru is a rewarding life experience for hikers and lovers of history and culture. Immerse yourself in legendary tales of the ancient Incan Empire as you step foot on trails once roamed by the Inca themselves! Hiking subject to Regulations: Trek permits can sell out 4 months in advance. Check out the availability of Inca Trail trek permits in real time - here. All companies offering these treks must have a special Inca Trail license. Alternative Treks & Hiking: At the moment these treks are not subject to the Inca Trail regulations and trek permits are not required. Therefore this trek can easily be arranged just a few weeks in advance when you arrive in Cusco. However if you have limited time and want to trek with one of the better quality companies, we would recommend making reservations a few months in advance. Our experienced guides will take you on a great adventure! Choose from Salkantay trekking, Lares trek, Choquequirao trekking, Huchuy Qosqo trail, Vilcabamba trek and colca. http://www.llamatoursperu.com/en/treks-peru http://www.llamatoursperu.com/en/inca-trail http://www.llamatoursperu.com/en/machu-picchu http://www.llamatoursperu.com/en/peru-tour-packages Best regards from Cusco, Llama Tours Peru

The popularity of the Inca Trail and the scarcity of available spots have led to the opening of several alternative hikes of varying length and difficulty. The two-to seven-day Salkantay trek is named for the same named for the 6,270 meter(20,500 feet) peak of the same name.It begins at Mollepata, four hours by road from Cusco, and is a strenuous hike thet goes through a 4,800 meter (15,700-feet) pass.The Salkantay excursion joins the Inca Trail at Huayllabamba. (http://www.incatrailmachu.com/en/travel-blog/walking-holidays-to-peru)

Tierras Vivas has created the Trekking & Hiking activity for the all trekkers to enjoy the hike around to Peru. Explore and discover the Inca route to Machu Picchu such as walking to Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek, Trekking & Hiking holiday offers adventure packages through to Peru. (http://www.tierrasvivas.com/en/activities/trekking-hiking)

There is no shortage of companies selling tours to Perú, but not all of them have the same level of experience and reputation. Most U.S. Canadian, and British tour companies offering trips to Peru merely sell tours that are designed and run by Peruvian operators. However, there are international companies that run their own shows in Peru, notably Orient Express. Others send a trip leader to accompany each group, who will often team up with a peruvian guide. However,many simply sell tours that are operated by one or more peruvian companies. (http://www.incatrailmachu.com/en/travel-blog/tour-operators)

The Inka a Trail to Machu Picchu is known as one of the most famous and cherished hiking journeys in the world. It consists of a 4 day trek to Machu Picchu Day 1 .- Trekkers arrive from Cusco, either by train, getting off at the midway stop. Ollantaytambo, or Km 88, the preferred method of transport for many groups. (Starting at Km 82 doesn’t add appreciable distance to the trail). After crossing the Rio Urubamba (Vilcanota), the first gentle ascent of the trail looms to inca ruins at Llaqtapata (also called Patallaqta where Bingham and his team first camped on the way to Machu Picchu). The path then ccrosses the Rio Cusicacha, tracing the line of the river until it begins to climb, until it reaches the small village (the only one still inhabited along the Trail) of Huayllabamba -a 2 - 3-hour climb. Most groups spend their first night at campsites here. Total distance: 10 to 11km (6-7 miles). Inka Trail Itinerary more information : http://www.incatrailmachu.com/en/travel-blog/inca-trail-trek-4-days-3-nights-itinerary

With the new regulations introduced in 2001, only officially sanctioned travel operator are permitted to organize group treks along the Inca Trail. With the higher-end agencies, it is usually possible to assemble your own private group with as few as two hikers (http://www.tierrasvivas.com/en/travel-blog/inca-trail-tour-operator)

Machu Picchu- No matter how you get there or just how many tourists are visiting, Machu Picchu, the fortress city of the Incas, in still mankind’s most incredible creations. Kuélap.- the high walls of this mountain-top citadel of the Chachapoyan culture could becomethe next Machu Picchu, or the next big ancient site in the country. The Inca Trail and Alternative trails-Hike up and down thousands of stone steps that pass through various ruins en route to Machu Picchu. If the trail is filled up, try one of the pleasant alternatives such as the nature trek past Salkantay or to the isolated ruins at Choquequirao. Climbing in Huaraz- join an ice-climbing expedition to one of the world’s most beautiful peaks, Alpamayo, or just go for a day-climb in one of the many sites in theCordillera Blanca. (http://www.traveltourgroup.com/en/travel-blog/top-20-adventures-in-peru)

The Blogger Experience was created by Inca Trail Machu as your Peru travel guide, a place where you can discover the real Peru, South America . We want to invite you to the authentic world of Peru, to uncover what really goes on behind the scenes, you will find everything you need to know, for your travels such as Hiking to Machu Picchu and Alternatives treks to Inca Trail, Trekking to Patagonia or information about the Galapagos Islands, including food, videos, photography—anything worth sharing, really. We aim is to deliver the raw beauty that can normally only be seen up close.(http://www.incatrailmachu.com/en/travel-blog)

One of the main routes to Machu Picchu is the Inka Trail, which is one of most famous hiking paths in the world,and is a favorite of adventures and tourists alike.The Inka Trail is 45 km (28m) long and begins at km 88 in the small village of Qoriwayrachina and finishes in the sanctuary of Machu Picchu.The Inca Trail has been restared, is wellmarked, and is not dangerous.Along the way police,medical attention,and porter services are available. (http://www.salkantaytrekmachu.com/en/travel-blog/inka-trail)

Inca jungle Imperial is a great option to get involved with the nature of the jungle and with the original Inca trails that we have in this part of the Peruvian jungle. We start the adventure trip in Cusco. After three hours car drive we reach to the beginning of biking after 3 hours downhill biking we arrive to Santa Maria, in the afternoon we do white river rafting. Second day we have very interesting activities. Hiking on the original Inca trail, visiting some of the local families to learn about the process of coffee and also we have the chance to see the cultivation of the coca plant then in the afternoon we jump into the hot springs in Santa Teresa third day we do the awesome zip lining and then hike to Aguas Calientes town with the amazing views of Machu Picchu and then arrive at the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. This option is full of adventure in the jungle and the Andes of Cusco. BEGINNING POINT: Cusco ENDING POINT: Cusco DURATION: 4 Day - 3 Nights ACTIVITIES: Biking, hiking, archaeological, Cultural, Ecological, TRIP STYLE: full adventure PACKAGE NAME: classic Inca jungle trail 4days/3nights TYPE OF ROUTE: Best adventures Alternative Trek to Machu Picchu GROUP SIZE: min 02 people - max 10 people Difficulty level: 2 our difficulty ratings are based on a scale of 1-5, tours with a rating of 1 being least difficult, tours with a rating of 5 being most difficult DEPARTURES DAY: Daily Departures DAY 2: SANTA MARIA – QUELLOMAYO- SANTA TERESA 22km 13mi Hiking. Our hiking day starts with energetic breakfast at the restaurant around 6:00 am. Today is one of the most awesome days of the entire adventure. We start hiking along the car route for about 45 minutes. then we get into the original Inca trail that used to be to connect Machu Piccchu. http://incajungle.com

Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu tour involves the experience of visiting the famous Pisac Market, Pisac Ruins and Ollantaytambo archeological site. Then you will take the train to Machu Picchu and spend one night in Aguas Calientes before visiting the site the next day. The next day you will wake up early and take the bus up to Machu Picchu. There, you will visit the Machu Picchu city and have the chance to climb Huayna Picchu mountain (must be purchased in advance) or walk around the ruins. ( https://www.tierrasvivas.com/en/sacred-valley-to-machu-picchu

Cordillera Huayhuash one of the best trekking experience dramatic, amaizing wonderful trek with 15 mountains glacier peaks like Ay Yerupaja (6640 meters), the second highest in Peru; Siula Grande, made famous by the film Touching the Void; and lakes like Carhuacocha, Solteracocha, and Jahuacocha. If you are interested in this trek you can take the service of the company Peruvian Mountains more 17 year of service.

The Inca Jungle is not just a tour, it´s an experience. From descending over 3000 m. by mountain bike to sleeping with a local guest family in the jungle, and from zip lining to hiking recently discovered Inca pathways. Ending up in one of the seven world wonders, and chosen best travel destination by National Geographic: Machu Picchu. We have professional guides, who are well trained, experienced and speak English fluently. For us it is important to share with you all the knowledge we possess about the history of the great Inca´s, their magnificent culture and the secrets of the jungle. We are proud of our heritage and wish to show you something unique and unforgettable, with the goal to change your view on the Peru´s present and history. Your safety is our priority. For the biking we offer full body protection, during the hiking you will be clearly instructed where to go and where not and the extra optional activities will only be done by highly skilled guides. We sincerely hope that you´ll give us the chance to share this great experience with us. http://incajungle.com

The Inca Jungle is a popular and adventurous trip in Cusco, comprised of a wide variety of enjoyable activities ranging from mountain biking to river rafting. The Inca Jungle trip passes through many different climates, beginning high in the Andes Mountains, where the group coasts down a winding road with breathtaking views on mountain bikes and outfitted in safety equipment. After a lunch in the town of Santa María, travelers have the option of river rafting in Vilcanota. The second day is comprised of hiking along the traditional Inca Trail, which passes many small Incan ruins The area passed through this day is brimming with life, including a wide variety of natural growing fruits and exotic birds. In the afternoon, the group relaxes in the thermal baths of Cocalmayo. Day three, the option of ziplining is available, which costs extra but offers a unique vantage point of the forest. That night, travelers rest in Aguas Calientes before the highly anticipated early morning tour of the legendary city of Machu Picchu.

Nothing says “Cusco” quite like a sweater, shawl, poncho or scarf woven from the hair of the cute and cuddly alpaca. Andean Cuisine: Where else in theb world will you find roasted cuy (guinea pig)and alpaca steaks rubbing shoulders on fine dining menu. Inca Architecture: How did the Inca construct stone walls so precisely using 15 century technology, how could they position a temple so it would be oluminated best at the exact moment of the solstice. Ponder history’s secrets. Layered Religion: Like that church’s architecture take a closer look at the walls every Catholic church was built on the site, and often on the foundation of an Inca huaca, or sacred place. Hoteles with History: Cusco’s hosteries brim with history. Many are former convents, monasteries, ddwellings of sacred women, or palaces os Spanish conquerors.

This experience provides an interesting fusion of the beauty and the variations of surroundings, animals and cultures. Whether looking out for animal life from the jungle lodge or ascending the historic path of the Incas to the Lost City of Machu Picchu (located in the promised lands of America). The new wonder of the world will astonish you with its bizarre location and architecture. The views will leave you stunned as you take the train across the Andes and then make your way to the Peruvian jungle where Machu Picchu is located. Experience the culture and allure of Peru, its compelling history, its awesome wildlife on this captivating Amazon and Machu Picchu tour

The Inca Trail is 43 kilometers of road between forests and dense fogs, ancient stone steps and majestic views. You get the reward at the end: the famous Sun Gate and its breathtaking views of the ruins of Machu Picchu. To make this journey is a unique you will never forget we give you some tips for your journey to the Inca Trail.

Peru is a huge country involving many climates and micro-climates as it covers territory from the equatorial zone, coastal areas, mountain ranges as well as the Amazon Rainforest that represents 1/3 of the whole country!! Apart of this geographical richness, there can be found a huge number of monuments of pre-Colombian civilizations such as the adobe city of Chan Chan (the Chimu civilization), the Huaca del Sol y Luna (the Moche civilization), the fortress of Kuelap (the Chachapoyas culture), Caral – the oldest city of both Americas of the same named culture, huge petroglyphs of Nazca Lines (Nazca culture), the New Wonder of the World – Machu Picchu (the Inca’s culture) and loads of more!!

43 kilometers of forest and fog. Old stone steps and majestic views. In the end, an incomparable reward: Machu Picchu There are many roads leading to Machu Picchu, but none like the Inca Trail. The most popular among travelers and the most famous across America. From Cusco, 43 kilometers of track between forests and dense fog, ancient stone steps and majestic views. At the end is the reward: the famous Puerta del Sol and its stunning views of the ruins of Machu Picchu. The Inca Trail is a rite of passage for travelers and a unique adventure, but you have to plan well before leaving. More information visit our Travel Blog (http://www.incatrailmachu.com/en/travel-blog)

While Responsible People Foundation already negotiate hotel rates, tours and restaurant prices in bulk for separate groups, solo travel or small group, there are still additional discounts to be found for a single large group. You can help us to book your trip with us. Responsible People found the best tour operators in Peru and we have a alliance, where we will give the best price and you find the discount for your hike or tours. You can book your travel with us and you can help us to create the new proyects for our communities. The Best Tour Operators. The following Inca Trail tour operators are listed in order of price — not comparative quality — from the least expensive to the most luxurious options. Rates are for the 4 day Inca Trail trek (group tour) or 2 day Inca Trail with Camping or Hotel unless otherwise stated. Prices can change quickly, especially at the start of the year, but We´ll try to keep these updates as often as possible. All of these companies are based in Peru and all offer the Inca Trail and alternative treks to Machu Picchu such as Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, Inca Jungle Trek or Inca Quarry Trail, as well as various other tours around Cusco. Responsible People win a commission for each traveller booked with us. this commission will help us to get more project for our communities, families and children.

Circuit cedros Alpamayo trek is located in The Cordillera Blanca within in the Huascaran National Park the full program take 10 days , during this trek we will see the amazing mountains peaks as Alpamayo one of the most beautiful peak in the world , santa cruz, pumapampa , quitaraju, pucajirca and the last day the huascaran peak chopicalqui, pisco, huandoy and the llanganuco lake. this trek is organized by Peruvian Mountains

Cordillera Huayhuash is located between limits of Ancash, Lima and Huanuco, huayhuash mountain range is concidered one of the best trekking it has 15 glacier peaks yerupaja 6640 the second highest in Peru siula grande 6354m, famous by the film touching the void and others peaks, crystal water lakes. the full trek take 12 days

Lares Valley Trek Hidden within the magnificent snow-capped Andes is a part of Peru where you have all appeal of the Inca Trail – magical mountain scenery and the legacy of the Incas – without the tourist crowds. Salkantay trek The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most interesting and important alternative treks to do, due to its wide range diversity in flora and different ecosystems, and its inca site laid on top of a mountain and just in front of the back of the Machu Picchu mountain. Cachicata Trek to Machu Picchu Cachicata’s proximity to Machu Picchu makes trekking around it an attractive alternative to the oversubscribed Inca Trail. Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu If you’re a haphazard traveler aiming for Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail is possibly not the best option. (http://www.tierrasvivas.com/en/destinations/peru/lares) (http://www.tierrasvivas.com/en/destinations/peru/salkantay-mountain) (http://www.tierrasvivas.com/en/destinations/peru/cachicata-trek-peru) (http://www.tierrasvivas.com/en/inca-jungle-trek-to-machu-picchu)

Many customers have asked us about the differences between the Classic Inca Trail and the Inca Trail Alternatives to Machu Picchu. Well, choosing the right trek might be difficult so we have stated below a list of various factors that might help you deciding CLASSIC INCA TRAIL One of the most famous treks worldwide Following an authentic path of the Incas Taking you to Machu Picchu Arrival to Machu Picchu through Inti Punku (Sun Gate) offering impressive views of the Lost City of the Incas Breathtaking views from snowy mountains to luxuriant cloud forest http://www.traveltourgroup.com/en/travel-blog/the-difference-between-inca-trail-and-alternatives

The Manu National Park is a protected nature reserve with the most animal diversity in Peru and maybe the world. Animal habitats range from 200 masl (meters above sea level) in the Amazon rainforest around the source of the Manu river to 3,800 masl up in the high plains of the Peruvian Andes, an area that covers 17,163 square kilometers. This area has been declared an UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site as well as a nucleus of Biosphere Reserves in 1987. Manu National Park is also the home of various tribes like the Matshiguenka, Jarambut, Yines and isolated populations like the Mashcopiros. In Manu it has been reported that there are 10,000 species of plants, 250 varieties of trees in one hectacre, 221 species of mammals, 1,200 species of butterflies, more than 300 types of ants, 210 species of fish, 155 species of amphibians, 132 species of reptiles and 1,025 species of birds which makes up 10% of the world´s avian population. Manu is considered to be one of the few remaining pristine forests on the planet and it is truly a paradise of natural evolution. http://www.manutoursperu.com/en/manu-national-park-tours http://www.manutoursperu.com/en/manu-biosphere-reserve http://www.manutoursperu.com/en/tambopata- http://www.manutoursperu.com/en/manu-tours/manu-national-park-tour

The route to Machu Picchu has gotten smoother, thanks to two hotels outside Cuzco. Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel and Wellness = resort is built on a 17th-century hacienda and has one of Peru’s largest spas. Treatments feature coca leaves and camu camu, a fruit from the Amazon. To prepare for a trek, check into the Hotel Rio Sagrado and book an altitude acclimatizer massage at Spa Mayu Wilka.

Ollantaytambo, Peru is a historic site, with both ruins and an ancient main town founded in the 15th century. The town boasts some of the oldest still-inhabited buildings in South America, and its cobbled alleyways are inviting little passages that beg you to get happily lost. I especially loved my momentary encounters with locals around each turn. This girl’s slight smile let me know she was happy to be photographed, although we never exchanged a single word.

While riding the train from Cuzco to Aguas Calientes to visit Machu Picchu, I was charmed by this little dog’s ingenuity. It was a chilly, rainy morning and I guess the dog wanted to be a little warmer and thought his cow friend would make a fine bed. The cow didn’t seem to mind a bit - I like to think the dog made as good a blanket as he did a bed.

Cancha is the toasted corn that is often served at Peruvian restaurants, as something to nibble on prior, and during, your meal. It’s roasted un-popped corn and is normally prepared in a clay pot, on a low heat, with a bit of lard and ground salt.

Apologies for the corny title, but I’m a sucker for flowers and I love flower markets. Despite the other shopping temptations when I travel, I always make time to admire and photograph the flowers. But don’t flower bouquets all look the same no matter what part of the world you are in? No, not in my humble opinion, but even if they did, I’ll still be seeking out the flower section of every market to gaze at the sublime combinations of colors and inhale the sweet scents. I just can’t help it!

Anyone heading to Cusco, Peru will discover that there are tons of hostels to choose from. A lot of them tout the fact that they are ‘steps from city center,’ or ‘right downtown where the excitement is.’ But there is only ONE that is literally above all the rest, and that’s the Loki Backpackers Hostel. Now to be honest, it’s a bit of a party scene and the crowd that stays here is definitely on the younger side, students enjoying their gap year and things like that. However, while the clientele likes to carouse, this hostel does boast the premier view of Cusco. The photo above is from my seat at the bar in this hostel. Cusco was glowing in the distance, and a huge fireworks display went off a few moments after I snapped this. Even if you don’t necessarily stay at this place, I’d suggest you make the trek up the hill just to take in a brew and the view.

While exploring downtown Cusco in late August, I was surprised by this rather interesting festival. After inquiring with some locals, I was only able to find out that: 1) it’s a celebration by the Catholic church, 2) it happens three times a year, and 3) they take a giant statue of Mary and parade her around the town square. Nobody could explain to me why everyone was in funky Stanley Kubrick Eyes Wide Shut kind of masks, or why there were four individuals dressed as (wait for it) giant gorillas! It was a jovial, carnival-like vibe, and reminded me of a mini Mardi Gras, in Peru.

Standing beside the amazing Sacsayhuaman wall outside the Peruvian city of Cusco, the former capital of the great Inca Empire. “Scientists” believe hundreds of men dragged each of these stones to the site with rope but we all know it was aliens who built this. One of the most impressive things I’ve seen in my life, maybe more impressive than Machu Picchu itself.

Cusco is one of the most amazing city’s in South America. Hidden squares, restaurants, markets and cafes around every corner. Be sure to check the weather before you head there and pack accordingly. We went in November where we had sun and nice cloud cover; but the evening brought intense downpours for a few hours each night.

My mission was the 4 day hike to Macchu Picchu. It was my first day in Cusco, getting used to the altitude etc. My parents had also decided to attempt the hike and had been hiking trails for a few months before their departure for this trip. We checked into our hostel and my dad and I decided to explore the town and wandered into a side street off the main plaza when we spotted this door. I"m always obsessed about narrow alleys and doors with cracked walls, maybe because of the character they exude and the stories they hide. But after I took this shot where my dad gamely agreed to pose, I realized the real story behind this pic came not so much from the blue door and the walls as it did from my dad and his jovial nature - always young at heart and game for exploring.

Cusco is much more than a jumping off point for Machu Picchu. The cities cobbled streets and sidewalks wind through architecturally impressive cityscapes complete with colorful inhabitants. The cities many plazas, often punctuated by impressive fountains give Cusco a community feel even though the city is most often overrun by tourists. Even in the rain Cusco is special and romantic and is best enjoyed with a glass of vino caliente!

Before going to Peru I had heard that guinea pig was a common food item, so I decided to at least give it a try. I was not prepared for how it was presented. As for taste? There really wasn’t much flavor. After breaking through the brittle skin the meat was slightly greasy with little taste. While I wouldn’t have it again, it was worth the experience.

Because of a tight work schedule I only had two hours to explore some of Cusco. It is definitely a place to which I want to return with more time available.

On the steps of the Spanish Colonial church in the main square of Cusco, these women were resting and watching the world go by.

Local Cusco children

I spent about two weeks in Peru and traveled through a lot of different cities/towns. i can honestly say that Cusco was my favorite. I was traveling solo but always felt very safe and welcomed by the people i encountered there. it is a beautiful city with lots to explore. i wish i had planed more days to stay in Cusco- but now i know for the next time I find myself in Peru I am going to plan more time in and around Cusco. note: I traveled there in November and stumbled upon two different parades/festivals. The festival watching was definitely a highlight of the experience! I got lucky- but it may be worth looking into in advance.

We were lucky to be in Cusco on June 24th, where we got to see the city’s dazzling festivities for Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun). This Incan festival is held annually to worship the Sun God and is one of the biggest events in Cusco that draws a huge number of locals as well as travelers from all around the world. The performances and grand procession start at Qorikancha (Temple of Gold), proceeding to the main Plaza de Armas (Parade Square) and conclude amongst the splendid ruins of Sacsayhuaman. The theatrical presentation involves performers in gaily decorated costumes who dance to the rhythmic and mesmerizing music, as the royal Inca King and beautiful Coya (his queen) wave to the gathered crowds. Inti Raymi introduces travelers to the history of Cusco and the Incan civilization. It is the experience of a lifetime and should not be missed!