By GR on May 1

If you’re looking to get back to nature or clear your head and rediscover yourself this summer, look no further than Perú. You can travel back in time to when Incas ruled the region and experience Michelin restaurants in the sprawling metropolis beach capital city of Lima. But, there are a few things you need to keep in mind while you plan your trip. 

1. Cusco

To get to many of the favorite hiking and historic destinations in Perú you’ll need to first get to Cusco (3,400 meters above sea level), a short flight from Lima. 

I’ve stayed at this amazing Costa del Sol Wyndham Hotel in Cusco. It is a 17th-century mansion transformed into a hotel and is situated in the heart of Cusco. You’ll absolutely love it since it is just a short walk from Cusco Main Square and La Merced Church and provides very authentic colonial-style lodging.

TIP: Make sure you either spend a few days in Cusco to acclimate to the altitude before hiking or stop at a lower elevation city like Arequipa (2,335 meters). 

TIP: Take Diamox for the altitude, particularly if you have not acclimated properly

TIP:  Bring Soles (local currency) unless you want to pay high ATM or exchange fees. Many hotels, even fancier ones, do not change currency although one of our recommended hotels, Sonesta, does. 

Cusco is one of the oldest cities in the Americas and was the capital of the Incan empire. It’s not modernized so don’t expect modern architecture or even paved roads in many parts of the region. Instead, you’ll find many artisanal items like baby alpaca clothes, chocolate delicacies, and Peruvian coffee. 

From Cusco you can organize many tours to Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, Puno and more.

2. Machu Picchu (Inka Trail)

Most tour guides offer the two-day or four-day hikes through the Incan trail to Machu Picchu. You can also take a train that takes you to Aguas Calientes where you can take a short bus ride to Machu Picchu to avoid hiking. The four-day hike features tent camping along the trail, immersing you in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Alternatively, you can do the two-day hike that consists of a vigorous day of hiking, followed by a comfortable overnight stay at a hotel in Aguas Calientes. This allows for rest and rejuvenation before you explore the majestic Machu Picchu the following day.

I opted for the two-day hike because my tight schedule didn't allow for the longer four-day option. Also, the four day hike typically involves sleeping in a tent. It’s great for sometimes, but traveling solo at a high altitude, I knew I needed good sleep every night.

The Hotel I stayed in was El MaPi Hotel by Inkaterra. It has a great location in the heart of Aguas Calientes and 5 mins walk from the bus station to Machu Picchu. It’s also very clean, very comfortable, and as you can see has a modern minimalistic (almost Japandi) style that I love.

After thorough research and consideration, I can recommend the following tour providers for their exceptional service and expertise in Machu Picchu:

1. Alpaca (offers a Four-Day Hike).

2. SAM (has an option for a Two-Day Hike).

3. Inca Expert Travel (if you are looking for a higher end, custom travel experience).

Each of these three options presents unique advantages and disadvantages, tailored to various budgets, preferences for group or private travel, and your specific travel goals. Additionally, the timing of your trip is crucial. While the high season runs from June through August, traveling from May through October offers a great opportunity to enjoy the area while avoiding the rainy season.

3. Rainbow Mountain (for everyone, but particularly for adventurers and athletic people)

With an altitude of 5,200 meters above sea level (17,000 feet - 3 MILES), the oxygen is scarce. Make sure you go with a tour guide so they can help you along the way. Much too risky going solo, although very possible for the risk takers out there. 

Here are some Rainbow Mountain tour options:

1. From Cusco: Guided Rainbow Mountain Tour with Transportation

2. From Cusco: Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour with Meals

3. From Cusco: Rainbow Mountain Day Trip and Red Valley

TIP:  If you haven’t acclimated to the altitude in Cusco or similar elevation, I don’t recommend going to Rainbow Mountain at the beginning of your trip. Instead, save it for later after you’ve had a number of days to acclimate. 

4. Sacred Valley/Ayahuasca

After a rough start to the year in relationships and career, I needed to clear my head and find what’s blocking me from being happy. So, I decided to try ayahuasca. And, very glad I did. It’s like no other drug or experience in the world. It really challenges you mentally and physically while the shaman(s) guide you. 

Plus, located in the mountains of the Sacred Valley, the place is absolutely stunning both in the day and night times. 

I won’t cover everything about the experience here, but I will include the place where I went because it was very well controlled. I had to have medical exams before being admitted and then both a psychologist and a doctor were on hand throughout the time and even in the ceremony to ensure everyone is safe.

I highly recommend this place. But, be prepared. They give you a number of things you need to do prior to attending including detoxing 1-2 weeks prior.

5. Lima

My last stop on the trip (although you could always do it earlier in your trip) was Lima. I have not been here since I was little and oh how it’s changed. 

Where I recommend to stay:

The Costa Verde highway along the coastline is a testament to good transportation infrastructure. The neighborhoods of Miraflores and Barranco along the beach are beautiful with great restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, a tennis club and plenty of coastline to run or ride your bike. 

Some of my favorite restaurants are listed below:

1. Breakfast: Caleta Dolsa San Isidro or Barranco, Pan de la Chola

2. Lunch: Mercado, Huaca Pucllana, Costanera - rustic, but great food

3. Dinner: Osaka, Rafael, Rocco, Carnal, Rosa Nautica, Maido, and La Cantina di Epicuro

If you’re into surfing, there are many surfers along the beach. Just rent a board and find a good spot. 

Overall, my Peru trip exhausted, challenged, and mesmerized me. Along the way, I found a smile. The hole I had in my heart and the fears of what’s to come slowly went away or at least are not as prevalent. 

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind experience.