Is it possible to find a one-size-fits-all solution to the problem of balancing time and budget limits with a thirst for adventure? This is especially tough in places like Cusco, which are already expensive without additional add-ons. But the Extreme Inca Tour is an Inca Trail alternative that might solve the problem for thrill-seekers.
You can get in your adventure activities (hiking, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and ziplining) and still visit Machu Picchu. And the cost is around average for a good tour service to Machu Picchu.
Why The Extreme Inca Tour?
I discovered Cachi Life while searching for podcasts on visiting Peru. Their Peru Travel Podcast is a great resource for anyone visiting Cusco or Machu Picchu.
Cachi Life emphasizes working directly with local people for tourism services. This is important to me, since some tour providers ignore local communities and their needs (even while taking advantage of the natural and cultural richness of those communities!).
Cachi gives the traveler a fuller experience since locals are at the forefront of the company. Plus, the company pays fair wages (which is not always the case in Peru, sadly). They also work directly with local Quechua villages in implementing community projects.
The 4 Days Broken Down
Like the original Inca Trail, this tour is 4 days and 3 nights. However the Extreme Inca Tour goes the “back way” to Machu Picchu via Santa Theresa. On the way you’ll mountain bike, whitewater raft, hike, and zipline.
What’s Included
English-speaking guide
Ticket for Machu Picchu
Mountain Bike + Safety Gear
Lodging (hotels)
Meals
Wifi
Transportation to and from hotels
Return train ticket
What’s Not Included
For these you have to pay more:
Tips for the guide, porters and cooks
Huaynu Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
Zipline option
Whitewater Rafting option
Hot Springs in Santa Theresa
Day 1: Bike & Raft to the Jungle
On Day 1 the tour includes mountain biking and whitewater rafting. Cachi picks you up at the hotel, from which it’s 3-4 hours to the Abra Malaga Pass. Then you’ll descend over 3,000 feet (900 meters) in an adrenaline-packed distance of only 60km (37 miles). You’ll end at Santa Maria.
After lunch you have the option of taking a 2-hour whitewater rafting trip. The rapids are class III-IV. Since the biking won’t involve much pedaling, this is your chance to really get the blood flowing in warm, tropical Santa Maria.
Day 2: Hike with Monkeys & Soak in Springs
Of course, any route to Machu Picchu has to include hiking! Trek through jungle where you can spot monkeys, parrots, and try local coca and chocolate. The distance is 15km (9.3 miles). In Santa Theresa you can soak off in the hot springs to finish the day (always recommended :) ).
Day 3: Zipline!!!!
This starts with 6 ziplines up to 150 meters (492 feet!) in the air! Then you’ll hike 2.5 hours to Hydroelectrica for lunch. From there it’s a 2 hour hike next to the train tracks to Aguas Calientes.
You have to option to get up early for Machu Picchu. I really recommend this, because you can witness sunrise at the Sun Gate. This is described as a peak, even spiritual, moment for many visitors. The Extreme Inca Tour includes a 2-3 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu. Definitely consider purchasing a ticket for Huaynu Picchu, but make sure you have enough time to catch the train to Cusco.
Things I Don’t Like
There are a couple of things I don’t like about this tour, though. Every night you are in a hotel. Although that can be nice, it’s hard to say you did an “extreme” alternative to the Inca Trail and didn’t sleep under the stars for one night!
Maybe it’s the secret hippie in me, but I like the idea of not needing a hot shower or a bed for a few days. Especially if the story ends at Machu Picchu.
Of course, the views and towns you see on this experience are still amazing and beautiful. The Andes are always fascinating no matter where you sleep.
Also, the whitewater rafting and zipline are optional. So you’ll have to pay more to do these. But, the price is still within normal range for a quality Inca Trail tour, even with these additional costs.
Next Steps
Me literally taking the leap at Machu Picchu Mountain (and terrifying my mother)
So if you’re looking for some adventure in Peru, consider the Extreme Inca Tour. You’ll have an unforgettable experience and visit the world wonder of Machu Picchu. The price is good too, considering the multiple activities and tickets involved (Machu Picchu and the train back to Cusco).
Plus, most alternatives to the Inca Trail don’t include a ticket to Machu Picchu. However, this one will have you at the Sun Gate on the sunrise of Day 4. That is an enviable option!
This is also a great choice if you want to do the Inca Trail but aren’t crazy about camping outside for 4 days straight. Finally, Cachi has an excellent reputation, and you’ll be going with a company that prioritizes ethical tourism.
If you’re looking to get dirty and camp under the stars on the way to Machu Picchu, consider another Inca Trail alternative. In fact, Cachi has a regular Inca Trail tour, plus other options like Salkantay and Choquequirao. But if you want a good deal for a multi adventure experience, culminating at Machu Picchu, you can’t beat this tour in price and quality.
Still interested? Here’s a linkto read more or make a reservation on the Extreme Inca Tour:
The oasis of Huacachina– the first time I heard this phrase, I wasn’t sure if it was real. I didn’t even know if oases actually existed (sorry, East Coast American here) or were fictional. I had been cooped up in a room in a village in the Andes for 3 months, waiting out the rainy season when life kind of stops in that part of Peru. So when I heard the warm, sunny oasis was indeed real, I jumped at the chance to go. I was excited to try a new sport, drink some pisco, and catch up with friends.
Not just anyone could escape to Huacachina back in the day, though. Once reserved for Peruvian high society, the (very real) oasis is now a not-so-secret adventure spot just south of Lima for weekend travelers and backpackers. The oasis was made popular with its dune buggy and sandboarding excursions, but there is more to this tiny town of 100. It’s not far from Paracas and the Islas Ballestas, and the famous Nazca lines are a couple of hours away. Plus, Huacachina is located in Ica. Because of this you’ll find the best pisco and historic Peruvian vineyards.
Locals say the water of Huacachina treats asthma, rheumatism, and bronchitis. And a mermaid is said to claim the life of one man every year. I can’t confirm these since I never entered the water. It has gotten polluted from so many dune buggies and visitors, but there are efforts to reverse this using revolutionary nanotechnology. For visitors this means be conscious of your environment, and sadly, don’t swim in the oasis.
Of course, sandboarding is the name of the game in Huacachina. It’s impossible to not run across a dune buggy + sandboarding tour package while walking in the tiny oasis. The buggy + sandboarding experience costs S/ 45 plus S/ 3.60 in tax. Tours are not available in the middle of the day due to the hot sun and sand.
A more eco-friendly option is to rent a sandboard for S/ 10 an hour. You can walk up the dunes (work those calves!) and sandboard on down. The best time for this is after 5pm. Bring water and put on sunblock for this :)
Huacachina is full of discotecas, bars, and pools. If you look for nightlife or a chill afternoon, you will find it. Also consider visiting Tacama (www.tacama.com) in nearby Ica to learn about one of Peru’s oldest vineyards and popular pisco makers. The 50-minute tour is S/ 20 and includes tastings.
Where to Stay in Huacachina
There are lots of places to stay in Huacachina. Here are a couple popular options:
First, I love the name. Bananas are nutritious, and adventure equals life. This popular spot for backpackers has a pool and bar area and is located right inside the oasis. They provide tour services too.
The Upcycled Hostel is just outside of Huacachina. This colorful, bright building has a reputation of friendly staff and service. Plus, as its name implies, much of the premises is made from recycled materials. There is also a pool and garden area. Win-win!!
You have to get to Ica in order to visit Huacachina. From there it is a quick taxi ride to the oasis. Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, Soyuz, and Peru Hop connect Ica with other destinations such as Lima, Paracas (Islas Ballestas), Nazca, Arequipa and Cusco.
Destination
Trip Length (Hours)
Typical Cost (Soles)
Lima
4-5
35-75
Paracas
1
12-37
Nazca
2.5
29-77
Arequipa
12-13.5
110-150
Cusco
17.5
165-177
Note: The exchange rate tends to hover around 1 USD/3 soles. Price are as of April 2020
Things to Know for Huacachina
You can go year-round. So escape the routine anytime!
It’s always dry and the average temperature is 67 F (19 C), dipping a bit to 60 F (16 C) in June-August. Be sure to bring layers and sunglasses, sunblock, a baseball cap, and swimsuit for the pools :)
Your shoes will get full of sand if you wear them on the dunes, so use a good pair of sandals instead
Photo by Elemaki – Own work, CC BY 3.0, //commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3335925
Reasons to Visit Gocta Waterfall
Don’t Miss How to Visit!
Depending on who you talk to, the waterfall of Gocta in Amazonas, Peru is anything from the 3rd to 17th tallest in the world. The strange thing about this is that Gocta, locally known as “La Chorrera”, is considered the same height by most accounts. The waterfall is composed of two cataracts that together measure 771 meters (2,530 feet). Adding to the mystery, other scientific data of the area is pretty easy to find and not under debate. For example, nearby Yumbilla Falls, officially recorded in 2007, doesn’t suffer from a similar controversy. To visit Gocta, one treks through a cloud forest ecosystem for a few hours, where they can spot 21 other, smaller waterfalls in addition to 110+ species of birds, monkeys, and even the elusive spectacled bear.
This biodiverse area is where frigid Andean waters gush down steep mountainsides, unstoppable on the way to their destination in the Amazon rainforest. The area is almost as wealthy in wildlife and waterfalls as the capital, Lima, is in horn-blaring taxi drivers. Obviously, we had to make the hike to the enigmatic Gocta and see this mysterious waterfall in person.
We had to take a bus to the town of Cocachimba from our hotel in Chachapoyas in order to start the hike. An unpainted school bus picked us up at 8am, uncharacteristically punctual for Peru. From there it was an hour of going downhill, into warmer, more tropical, mosquito-filled climates.
Throughout the hike from Cocachimba you canhear Gocta beckoning you. The waterfall is visible from town, incredible considering that Gocta wasn’t officially recorded until 2002. At the beginning of the hike you can barely hear the whisper of the falls. The morning breeze is relatively cool, tropical vegetation covers the ground, and women sell fresh juice for S/ 1. It’s very pleasant.
After an hour or two of going over wooden bridges, stepping over leaves, and hearing the chirps of exotic birds, the noise of Gocta is undeniable. But now the falls hide from view- it’s like you’re playing hide and seek with the colossal cataract. This is another enigma of Gocta- the closer one gets, the less likely it seems to be able to spot it.
Gocta reappears near the end of our hike. Photo by J0EL 20001 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, //commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=74794371
The last twenty minutes were the most difficult. We were under a hot sun and anxious to arrive at the falls after so many games of peek-a-boo. The vegetation stopped covering the path, which was now dry. We could spot groups of tourists ahead simply from the dust clouds. At one point Gocta seemed to quit hiding from us, until we took another curve around the mountain and it again disappeared. This time the accordion of time stretched out, with each step reminding us of the heat and sun. I slightly worried about returning since my water source was under half-full.
Then, just as magically as it left us, Gocta reappeared, with its mist creating a thundering force that drowned out conversation. At 200 ft (65 meters out) the falls sprayed our glasses and blurred our vision. It was raining sideways! I had to yell to ask my wife and her sister if they wanted to get closer. They shook their heads no.
But I had to go. I wanted to get as close as possible to this recently discovered secret of Amazonas. This was a waterfall unknown to the outside world less than twenty years ago. Still today there weren’t many tourists on the path. We were part of a lucky few.
About 200 feet (65 meters) from the falls. Photo by Pitxiquin – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, //commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=59769466
The first dozen steps were fairly easy. Gocta is surrounded by rocks, and at about 75 feet (23 meters) out my boot slipped slightly. Soon it was like trudging through a rainstorm on top of a perilous slip-and-slide. I could see the mist ahead was getting more blurry, so I took off my glasses. It didn’t help. At 50 feet (15 meters) I stopped, having slipped two more times despite carefully planning each step. Gocta was not going to permit me to get closer, much less enter the pool underneath the falls.
Ahead was only mist and thunder. I stood for a minute and replenished my weariness in Gocta’s cold, energizing waters. I was no longer thirsty or tired. A smile involuntarily crept across my face. We made it.
Chuchuhuasi
The walk back was as dry and hot as expected, even though I started off soaking wet. I made it back relatively quickly, in under 3 hours. My mind was set on lunch.
I wasn’t disappointed. The soup in Cocachimba was one of the most replenishing meals of my life. The three of us shared a table with an older man and his daughter, who we recognized from the busride earlier.
The restaurant was pretty standard for rural Peru; cement floors, a chalkboard announcing the day’s menu with 5 set options, and Inka Cola sharing shelves with Coke. Most of the decorations were photos taken from the annual calendars of Cocachimba. Gocta featured prominently in many of the photos, giving the impression that the cataract had been world famous for decades.
The chalkboard had a dish of which I had never heard: Chuchuhuasi. I asked the old man what this was. The old Japanese-Peruvian smiled widely, creases deepening around his eyes and in his forehead. The man, who rode a horse on the trail to Gocta, made a noticeable effort to stand up and yell over another table to order 2 chuchuhuasis. I was so hungry that I didn’t mind eating more, considering how delicious the meal must be.
Before I got to ask what it was, two shot glasses were on the table. The man lifted one, matching his dark-brown eyes with mine. “Chuchuhuasi!” he exclaimed. I lifted my glass, careful not to spill the transparent liquid, as it was close to the brim. It went down in one shot, tasting vaguely like an herbal tea before the overwhelming aftertaste of moonshine. I felt instantly buzzed. The old man was ecstatic. Afterwards he told my wife chuchuhuasi is an aphrodisiac. He found this hilarious.
As our trip ended, I got up from our table and closed the menu to give to the waitress. Only then did I notice the restaurant’s claim to fame: “Cocachimba, hogar de la catarata mas alta del mundo!” Cocachimba, home to the world’s tallest waterfall.
At least in Cocachimba, the mystery is settled.
How to Get to Gocta Waterfall
By Srooose – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, //commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=75690105
Transportation
To get to Gocta you first have to go to Chachapoyas, the cobblestoned capital of Amazonas. “Chacha” is a 1 hour flight from Lima. Cruz del Sur and Movil provide bus services, too:
Destination
Trip Length
Cost*
Chiclayo
9 hr
S/ 56-76
Lima
22-23 hr
S/ 130-165
Trujillo
12-14 hr
S/ 65-85
As of 4/23/2020
Smaller buses and share cars (collectivos) leave from Cajamarca (12 hr) and Tarapoto (8 hr), too.
Any tour agency will take you to Gocta from Chachapoyas. Normally you make a reservation the day before, and they pick you up the next morning.
You can also take a bus combi from the terminal terrestre in the morning. Go to Puente Cocahuaico, a one hour ride that costs S/ 5. From there take a mototaxi to Cocachimba to see the bottom of Gocta, or to San Pablo to hike to the first cataract. Each hike takes roughly 6 hours roundtrip. The mototaxi will cost S/ 10-15.
Note: One US Dollar is equal to about 3 Peruvian soles.
Price
The entrance to the hike costs S/ 20.
Where to Stay
You can usually find triple in Cocachimba or San Pablo for roughly S/ 50. If you go from June through August, consider booking ahead of time since this is Peru’s high season for tourism.
Years ago, the parties were fewer and the surfing in Mancora drew in most visitors. Today it’s a mini-mecca for backpackers in addition to beach lovers. There are cafes, international restaurants (few places in Peru have Thai food), and also tried-and-true surf spots. Some might say the current Mancora is kitsch; others say it just has more flavor now.
If you take the tediously long busride from Lima to Peru’s northern coast, you’ll see the desert stubbornly but surely give way to palms and other tropical trees. Step off the bus at any of the stops and you’ll feel the warmth of the nearly equatorial sun brighten your senses. The grey of Lima dissipates from memory. You’ll wonder why you were crazy enough to be on a bus for 20+ hours. And you’ll second-guess if the relatively few dollars saved was worth it.
But all that melts away when you FINALLY get to the beaches such as Mancora. Here you can surf and dance away the stress from being inside that closed box on wheels. The excellent surfing opportunities, endless parties, and perfect sunsets make this part of Peru unique.
Hang 10! (or even 11)- What to Do in Mancora
Obviously, surfing is the name of the game in Mancora. Some of the best spots in the country are in & around town. You don’t need a wetsuit, unlike the beaches near Lima. Rentals are easy to find as well.
For nearby surf spots, check out Cabo Blanco, Lobitos, Los Organos and Zorritos. Cabo Blanco is said to have the best left-breaking curve in the world. Los Organos is unique in that it has white sand and is a popular fishing spot, too. Lobitos is also famous for its tubes, and is popular for windsurfing too. And the surfer’s paradise of Zorritos is the northernmost, so its waters are the warmest. All of these are within an hour’s drive of Mancora.
Check out the town of Fernandez if you’re itching for a hike. The town’s dry forest and waterfall are popular attractions.
There are other water activities in Mancora such as kitesurfing and banana boats, too. At sunset it’s popular to take a horse ride along the shore. Last but not least, the body surfing is ideal.
How to Get There
The best way to get to Mancora is to steadily make your way up the coast, stopping at beaches like Huancacho in La Libertad to break up the journey. Otherwise it’s a 21-hour bus ride from Lima, and it costs S/ 150-200 for a good seat that reclines all the way. Trust me, you do not want to skimp on the seat.
Mancora is also 8 hours from Guayaquil, Ecuador and 4 from the department capital, Piura. Oltursa and Cruz del Sur provide these bus routes. But If you’re low on time, the most efficient route is to fly to Piura from Lima. The flight takes less than 2 hours.
Destination
Trip Length (Hours)
Cost (Soles)
Guayaquil
7-8
S/ 70-80
Lima
21-22
S/ 200
Piura
4
S/ 30-80
Where Should You Stay?
There are lots of party hostels and bungalows in Mancora, at various price ranges. The classic backpacker stop, Loki del Mar, is beach-adjacent with its own pool and bar. The bar is great, the party doesn’t stop, and the crowd is active and lively.
If you want a more relaxed vibe, there’s Psygon surf camp, which has a good reputation.
You should reserve in advance, since Mancora is the most popular beach destination in Peru.
The Final Say If You Go Surfing In Mancora
Mancora is warm, dry, and sunny year-round. The exception is during El Nino years, when torrential rains can drench the northern Peruvian coast from April to October.
Mancora attracts a lot of tourists, and unfortunately, this can mean pickpockets too. For this reason I recommend being mindful of one’s belongings, especially in large crowds or when alcohol is involved.
Mancora is located in the department of Piura, which claims to have the best ceviche in all of Peru. I can verify that they deserve this claim. So definitely have a great ceviche mixto with a beer to pass an early afternoon!
Of course, bring what you normally would for a wet, sunny adventure. At least have a swimsuit and sunblock.
Ready to Make An Itinerary?
You can make Máncora part of your trip to Northern Peru. If that interests you, here’s a link to our sample itinerary for Northern Peru.
This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my disclaimer here.
Top 8 Sustainable Places to Stay in Peru
Don’t Contribute to Unethical Establishments
There are so many fascinating destinations in Peru that the potential adventures there are limitless. Because of this, the difficult part for me is figuring out where to stay after deciding on my next adventure’s location. Often I use Agoda. Regardless, I do a lot of investigating to know which place will make my experience the awesome-est.
Also, sustainable tourism is important in Peru, since so much tourism there is dependent on conserving the local environment. Because of this I prioritize hotels/hostels that are locally run and green. Finally, I only want to stay somewhere if I think it will be fun and add to my experience. After all, this is an adventure!
These are my top recommendations for where to stay in some of Peru’s most visited destinations: Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, and Puno. These have been selected for their sustainability standards, quality, and ability to add to your overall experience.
By my professional estimation, there are a million hotels in Lima, a city of over 10 million people. Which can be… overwhelming. But in reality, only a handful of neighborhoods cater to tourists. Of these, Janina and I prefer the Bohemian coastal enclave of Barranco. We always end up here, drinking on a terrace and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, as we finish our latest adventure.
I recommend staying at Kaminu Backpackers Hostel. Its location is ideally set close to the main plaza and within walking distance to some delicious cevicherias. Good ceviche alone is worth it, really. Always.
Plus, you can spot and easily reach Barranco’s famous bridge of sighs (Puente de los suspiros) from Kaminu. According to legend, your wish will come true if you hold your breath while walking the length of this bridge. Be strategic, since this only works once!
I also like Kaminu because they cater to lovers of fun. There’s foosball and other games, a public grill, and a terrace from which guests can enjoy the sunset. The eco-friendly aspect comes from the establishment’s free filtered water for guests. Since disposable plastic bottles are a scourge in Peru, this is a big deal.
Breakfast Included?
Yes
Hot Showers?
Yes
Vegetarian Food Options?
No
Outdoor Activity Services
Bicycle Rentals
Kaminu Backpackers Hostel: It’s located in a hip, artsy district with great food and nightlife options. Additionally it has fun options for guests and promotes sustainable water practices.
As one might imagine, there are TONS of hotel options in Cusco. But year in and out, I see one place consistently getting high marks. Ninos Hotel started off as Jolanda van den Berg’s mission to fund safe childcare for underserved children in Cusco. Today it has grown into two establishments (Meloc and Fierro) and a restaurant. The restaurant really hits the spot after walking around Cusco all day (get the pumpkin soup if it’s available!). Today I still recall viewing the Andean sky from the hotel’s courtyard, too.
Ninos Hotel is also a TripAdvisor-recognized Green Leader. That means they recycle, use energy and water-saving practices, and compost their organic waste to grow food for the restaurant. The two locations are two blocks from each other.
Breakfast Included?
No
Hot Showers?
Yes
Vegetarian Food Options?
Yes. Try the pumpkin soup!
Outdoor Activity Services
Packed lunches
Summary of Ninos Hotel Cuzco Meloc and Fierro: This is a socially responsible enterprise that offers an excellent experience to visitors. It’s walking distance (10 minutes) to the main plaza in Cuzco and offers a range of services. The packed lunches are particularly nice if you are waking up at the crack of dawn to catch a car for the Sacred Valley or Rainbow Mountain.
I’m always finding myself wanting to spend more time in the Sacred Valley. There are dozens of traditional villages with their own histories and sights to see. They are less crowded than Cuzco and located at lower altitudes, too. For this reason some tourists stay in the Sacred Valley for a longer amount of time and shorten their time in Cusco, instead of the other way around.
Of the many villages in the Sacred Valley, I picked three that stand out to me: Pisac, Chinchero, and Ollantaytambo. These are known for their archaeological sites, cultural expressions, and locations.
Pisac
The word is out! Pisac was once a hidden gem, largely due to its incredible indigenous market. Today the market has transformed a bit due to the increase in tourists, yet it’s still a top experience in the Sacred Valley. The town’s archaeological site is impressive, too.
Pisac is about one hour from Cusco. You can take a private taxi or one of the many mini-buses (combis) that leave Cusco and pass by Pisac throughout the day. The village lies between Cuzco and Ollantaytambo and so can easily fit into your plans to visit Machu Picchu!
Hatha Art Yoga is a 15 minute walk from Pisac’s main plaza. Views of Pisac’s archaeological site are available in some rooms, in addition to a great vegetarian breakfast. You can rent a bike from the hotel, and as name implies, yoga classes are available if you need to stretch out those muscles before hitting the trails again!
This is a less-visited village compared to Pisac, but is still in the middle of the Sacred Valley. This makes Chinchero a perfect spot from which to explore the region. Chinchero has its own traditional market, fascinating Incan and Spanish buildings, and mesmerizing views of the mountain range. Chinchero is a cultural capital, too- the rebirth of Andean textiles started here, and the village’s textile collective is a great place to find souvenirs.
There aren’t as many options for staying in Chinchero. But check out Hospedaje Encanto de Chinchero. It’s practically adjacent to the Chinchero market, AND the town’s archaeological site is just a 5 minute walk away.
They provide free bicycle rentals, too.
Breakfast Included?
Yes
Hot Showers?
No
Vegetarian Food Options?
No
Outdoor Activity Services
Free Bicycle Rentals
Hospedaje Encanto de Chinchero Summary: This is a small business that provides regular services (ie, laundry) in addition to room and board. Take advantage of the free bicycle rental to explore the Sacred Valley. You can also take a short stroll to the local archaeological site, market, or Chinchero’s famous textile cooperative.
MOST trips to Machu Picchu involve going to Ollantaytambo, and the town was a pleasant surprise for me. Its archaeological site’s architecture is as impressive as Machu Picchu’s, and its history is arguably more interesting (the Spanish lost a battle to the rebel Manco Inca here in 1537). The train station is the last stop before Aguas Calientes (aka Machu Picchu Pueblo). So lots of stores and restaurants cater to the international crowd.
One place that really stands out is El Albergue Ollantaytambo. It is walking distance to the main square, close to the archaeological site, and adjacent to the train station. You’re guaranteed organic, local food and drink here, since El Albergue is next door to the owner’s farm, distillery (Destileria Andina) and coffee roaster (Cafe Mayu). Plus there are excellentviews of the Andean landscape. Cooking classes and cultural shows are available, too.
And there’s a sauna!
Breakfast Included?
Yes
Hot Showers?
Yes (takes time to warm up)
Vegetarian Food Options?
Yes
Outdoor Activity Services
Free Bicycle Rentals, Sauna
Summary of El Albergue Ollantaytambo: This is a strategically-located hotel and restaurant that uses local, organic ingredients. In addition, it has received awards from TripAdvisor, TripExpert and Green Hotelier for sustainable tourism practices. From here you can rent bicycles for free, walk to the main attractions of Ollantaytambo, and then recuperate your muscles in the sauna.
Sunlight hitting the mountains at Aguas Calientes Photo by Paul Daly on Unsplash
I used to hate Aguas Calientes. Honestly, it’s a tourist trap. You see, only the Inca Trail (or the roundabout way) can reach Machu Picchu without stopping in AC. They literally changed the nickname of the town to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
BUT, it turns out there ARE things to do here (besides leave for Machu Picchu)! At the very least I’d recommend soaking in the hot springs after a long day. These hot springs are from which the town gets its name. And some people climb the sacred mountain Putucusi to get views of the area, even of Machu Picchu.
Your trip may involve an early wake up (think 3AM) to see Machu Picchu. Because of this, I recommend a quiet, comfortable place to stay in Aguas Calientes. Check out Rupa Wasi Eco-Lodge. Its comfortable beds, wooden design, and mountain views are great for getting rest. Plus its restaurant, the Tree House, is an excellent option, with vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Rupa Wasi offers massage services, too.
Breakfast Included?
Yes
Hot Showers?
Yes
Vegetarian Food Options?
Yes
Outdoor Activity Services
Packed lunches
Summary of Rupa Wasi Eco-Lodge: This beautiful lodge has a garden, terrace, massage services, and bar area. It’s a 3-minute walk to the bus station for Machu Picchu. The packed lunches are a nice touch for those waking up early (there are no food or drink options in Machu Picchu).
There is nothing like the view of Lake Titicaca at night. The night sky is practically untouched by air pollution at 12,500 feet (3,810 meters) above see level. The stars and moon reflect off of the highest freshwater lake on Earth. Few souls experience this, due to the fact that most tourists do not stay on the actual island. They instead spend the night in the city of Puno.
BUT a homestay in the islands of Puno is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! You only need one night, and you’ll be able to explore the entire island and get to know a family with a different culture and worldview. And you won’t be herded around like sheep from one tourist stop to the next (ahem, boat tours). These are rustic experiences but incredibly authentic, and they directly contribute to the local economy.
Homestay opportunities are available on the two largest islands, Taquile and Amantani:
Taquile Island
Taquile is an UNESCO world heritage site thanks to its rich textile traditions. The island is small enough to walk its entire length (2.2 square miles, or 5.7 square km) in under half a day. With a one-night homestay you can check out the textiles, take in the panoramas of the lake, and enjoy a home cooked meal with your local hosts.
Breakfast Included?
Yes
Hot Showers?
Unlikely
Vegetarian Food Options?
Unlikely
Outdoor Activity Services
Hiking
Summary of Homestays in Taquile: You will be taken in by a local family, who will cook meals for you and perhaps share a bit of their culture and lives. This experiential tourism also provides you with the chance to enjoy the island without other tourists or a fixed tour schedule. Seeing the sunset over Titicaca may be worth it in itself.
Amantani (3.6 square miles, or 9.28 square km) is not much larger than Taquile. But there’s a lot to discover for such a small island: its two mountain peaks, Pachatata (Father Earth) and Pachamama (Mother Earth), each have buildings from the Incan and Tiwanaku cultures.
There are also miradores (lookouts) throughout the island providing the best views of Lake Titicaca. Just as those of Taquile, the residents of Amantani hold on to very old traditions. In fact, there is a temple in the island that is still used for “offerings” (and not open to the public)!
Kantuta Lodge is a solar-powered lodge run by a local family, the Caris. It’s known for providing high-quality experiential tourism to tourists and is accredited by the local tourism committee. The Caris share with visitors their beliefs, daily lives, and meals (which are included in the price).
Breakfast Included?
Yes
Hot Showers?
Yes
Vegetarian Food Options?
Yes
Outdoor Activity Services
Hiking, Oxygen
Kantuta Lodge summary: This is an excellent, locally-run and owned operation. It will provide an experience you will never forget!!!
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You probably know that you need a high-quality backpack to get the most out of your adventures in Peru. This is especially true if you plan on visiting archaeological sites or doing do a multi-day hike such as the Inca Trail. But with so many options today, how do you know what are the top backpacks for your travels?
5 Top Backpacks for Peru
There are backpacks for every type of traveler and trip. To narrow down what you should buy for Peru, consider the following:
Features
Most backpacks have rain covers and a sleeve for a hydration reservoir. Both of these are useful for Peru. Between the two, the rain cover is more essential. A freak rainstorm can ruin a day if your stuff isn’t protected, while there are other ways to carry your water supply. If you buy a backpack with a hydration reservoir sleeve, be sure to buy a bladder and hose as well.
In addition, my recommendations are to buy a backpack with the following features:
“Shovel” side pockets for easy access to snacks, maps, water, or your camera.
A well-ventilated back area to avoid unnecessary back sweats
Sustainably-minded brands. Fortunately most companies that cater to backpackers fit this label.
A J or U-panel zipper for easy packing and access to contents
Size
The right size backpack for you depends on what you need. If you plan to do daily excursions but to return to a hotel every night, then a 35 liter capacity backpack is more than enough. For example, my 40-liter backpack is enough for a one-night hike for two people and can get me through 2-3 days. Backpacks with capacities under 70 liters are not recommended if you’re going on an extended (over 5 day) hike. When choosing between Small, Medium and Large, remember sizes are based on torso and not overall height. And if you can, buy a backpack that can go with you on the plane (no more than 62 linear inches).
Nomenclature
One thing I discovered when I was searching for backpacks was that there is a specific name for smaller packs that can get you through a day trip. “Day packs” (yes, that’s the name) are also considered backpacks. However, larger backpacks are designed to fit gear and supplies for multi-day treks. A day pack is wonderful for exploring the Sacred Valley or the coast. Large backpacks are needed for the Inca Trail or other long treks like Salkantay, Lares, Huayhuash, and Santa Cruz.
Your Gear and Supplies
Your backpack should be designed for the activities you’ve planned. Most larger models are meant to carry trekking poles and even climbing equipment. Some backpacks are designed for camera portability and access.
So, when companies are selecting a target audience, one strategy is to invent an avatar of the ideal consumer. The avatar is a complete (invented) character, with a name, age, and likes/dislikes. If Cotopaxi’s avatar is a Millennial returned Peace Corps volunteer named Brad who still travels throughout Peru, this would not be shocking. That’s because this brand TOTALLY speaks to me. Let me explain why:
First, Cotopaxi is a socially conscious company, demonstrated by its status as a Certified B Corporation. And the colorful designs, logo (who’s not a sucker for alpacas?) and name (Cotopaxi is a volcano in Ecuador) beautifully reflect Andean culture in a modern way.
But more practically speaking, this backpack is perfectly sized and designed for someone who likes to travel light. Its dimensions, 19x12x9 inches, make it able to fit under your seat on the plane. Plus the tuck-in straps help you to carry this as a suitcase when convenient.
This backpack is well-organized to maximize space. It’s got lots of sneaky pockets including a padded space for your tablet/ laptop. And I love that it opens up suitcase style, so you don’t have to dig your hand through the bag like other backpacks. And it’s got a rain cover, breathable back mesh, and theft proof zippers.
28 liters is enough space for day hikes, although some efficient reviewers say this backpack was enough for weeklong trips. Once you’re in Peru this is a great backpack for day excursions. This plus a suitcase or larger backpack, if needed, should be enough for the great majority of backpackers.
If the 28 liter size is too small, they have the same backpack in a 35 liter version too. Unlike other brands, Cotopaxi backpacks are unisex. The only downside I find is the lack of sleeve for a water reservoir. But with enough water bottles or even a LifeStraw water filter, this shouldn’t be an issue.
View from the Machu Picchu Mountain hike. Photo: Jani Goodman
Inca Trail and Other 4+ Day Treks: Gregory Baltoro 75L (Men) or Deva 60L (Women)
Ah, this backpack. I probably have spotted this brand more than any other among fellow travelers in Peru, and for good reason. Gregory is a well-recognized name in trekking. One of the coolest things about this company is their lifetime warranty (be sure to read the fine print though :)).
This pack has amazing reviews and is perfectly designed for hiking longer treks such as the Inca Trail, Salkantay, Lares, Huayhaush, and Santa Cruz.
If you don’t plan on doing such a trek, this backpack can still be a great option, as it may serve as the only piece of luggage you need. This is actually like buying two backpacks in one since the hydration sleeve alternatively serves as a day pack!
This backpack also has a compartment for your sleeping bag (sold separately). The U-shaped zipper panel provides for easy packing and access to your things. A cool feature unique to this backpack is a special storage space that will not scratch your sunglasses.
Most crucially for a backpack of this size, reviewers note that the Gregory Baltoro 75 and Deva 60 balance weight well. The Baltoro 75 is also available in 65-, 85- and 95-liter versions. The Deva is available 60- and 80-liter versions.
And since both models include a reservoir sleeve, I’d consider buying one of Gregory’s water reservoirs, too:
My Recommended Backpacks for Peru:
Backpack
Ideally Suited for
Standout Features
Allpa 28L Allpa 35L
Daypack- can complement a suitcase or be enough for a whole trip if you’re an extremely light packer.
Tuck-in straps. Opens like a suitcase. Fits under the seat.
REI Trail 40L (M) 40L (W) (discontinued)
Daypack and up to a 3-day hike.
U-shape zipper panel. Padded shoulder & hip straps.
Baltoro 75 (M) Deva 60 (W)
Multi-day treks over three days (such as Inca Trail, Salkantay, Lares, Huayhuash and Santa Cruz).
Lifetime warranty.
So What’s Next?
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One of the few things I splurge on for visiting Peru is a pair of hiking boots. Few things can ruin an experience as much as a pair of shoes that comes apart on your hike. So as long as you’re planning on visiting archaeological sites, the Andes or the jungle, here are brands and models that I consider the best for hiking in Peru.
Don’t Miss the Best 4 Hiking Boots for Peru
I only consider boots that go past the ankle, are water-resistant (or water-proof), and have a good reputation among fellow hikers and online reviews. Below are several boots that I would buy (or have used) for visiting Peru. This is in reverse alphabetical order, because it’s fun to start lists with Z:
Zamberlan Trail Lite EVO GTX Hiking Boots: I like that these are lightweight, waterproof and can be resoled. Since the sole is often the first part of the shoe to fall apart, resoling lengthens the boots’ lifespan and results in less waste. For hiking boots these are super fancy-looking and can be worn in non-hiking scenarios. The Gore-Tex lining makes them breathable as well.
Oboz Sawtooth II Mid BDry Hiking Boots: These are the boots my wife currently uses. In our home we love Oboz!!! This particular product features a duel-density EVA midsole. In English, that means the boots have extra cushioning and stability.
La Sportiva Blade GTX Hiking Boots: This vegan option has a GoreTex mesh, making them waterproof. Relatedly, today I learned vegan clothing is made from zero animal products and only from cruelty-free sources. If you buy these, know that some reviews mention that they run a tad small.
KEEN Targhee Vent Mid Hiking Boots: KEEN is another well-recognized name in hiking. These boots are noted for being very breathable and so are recommended for jungle treks or hikes that have a large change in altitude. They also contain Cleansport NXT, which provides natural odor control, which will be very important to your fellow hikers.
Factors to Consider when Choosing Yours:
Weather: Most of the treks in Peru involve huge changes in altitude and maybe rainfall. So boots that are at least water resistant are recommended. If you’re going to the Andes or jungle during rainy season (generally November through April), get waterproof boots. I avoid insulated boots since temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day. And nobody likes sweaty boots.
Quality: Yes, it’s obvious, but you want high-quality boots to get you through the tons of walking that you’ll do in Peru. While I like to try new brands and to support start-ups, this is a case when I stick to what are generally recognized as high quality brands.
Height: I only use boots that go past the ankle when in Peru. It’s easier to twist your ankle when you’re tired from hiking or aren’t familiar with the terrain, so protect yourself! There is no good place to twist your ankle, but there are many bad places. Peru is one of those bad places.
Weight: I don’t have a rule of thumb for how heavy/light a boot should be, but I try to opt for lighter boots when all else is equal. After days of traveling, one starts to notice a difference if their boots are heavy.
Why it’s Worth Investing in Hiking Boots for Peru
I cannot emphasize this enough: Unless you’re just going to hang out in the cities or the beach for the whole trip, get solid hiking boots for Peru. It doesn’t have to be any product recommended by me, but if you’re going to invest so much time and money into visiting this fascinating country, make sure your feet are prepared for it!!!!
So once more, here are brands and models that I recommend for your trip to Peru:
Boot
Unique Features
KEEN Targhee Vent Mid
Cleansport NXT helps provide natural odor control. Water resistant. Breathable design.
La Sportiva Blade GTX
Waterproof mesh made with GoreTex. Runs a tad small. Vegan.
Oboz Sawtooth II Mid BDry
EVA midsole designed for extra cushioning and stability. At least water resistant.
Zamberlan Trail Lite EVO GTX
Can be resoled. Waterproof. Italian-made.
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Why should you start your itinerary for Peru right now?
Well, if you want it, Peru probably has it. World class hikes, of all types of length and adventure? Check. Indigenous traditions and ancient cultures? Yup. Awe-inspiring nature and outdoor activities? You bet.
And to keep you energized throughout all that, it’s even aglobally-recognized food destination.
So Peru is an excellent destination for adventure. It’s also perfect for appreciating nature and different cultures. Many visitors describe parts of their trips as spiritual for these reasons.
Plus,I’d say it’s the best country to cure anxiety and self-doubt that arise from boring office jobs.
If you’re interested in ever visiting Peru, this website will help plan your trip. First, this article will go over background and basic need-to-know travel information.
Afterwards, I recommend selecting a region to start with. That’s because Peru is so large, you might only have time to visit one area. For this reason I’ve written adventure guides for each: The North, Central, and Southern Peru.
Here is all you need to break the boring routine of daily life and start your itinerary for Peru:
Why You Need An Itinerary for Peru
Peru has been climbing in status for adventure travel (and for checking off bucket lists) since relative stability entered the country in the early 2000’s. The great majority of tourism is funneled to the southern region of the country.
Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Manu, Lake Titicaca, the Nazca Lines, and Arequipa are all in the southern region. So is the more-recently “discovered” backpacker haven of Huacachina and the Instagram-famous Rainbow Mountain.
The country has been earning accolades and superlatives at an astonishing pace. National Geographic considers several of the treks there among the very best in the world. The jungle of Manu has the highest level of biodiversity ever recorded. There are more tropical galciers in Peru than any other country.
The country is also recognized as the South American food capital, and Lima now competes with New York City and Paris for the most number of restaurants in the top 10 world rankings. And this isn’t even a complete list!
When I first arrived to Peru, it was my first time out of the United States. Peace Corps sent me to a small village on the top of the mountain in the Andes of Lima, and my life was never the same. Now I can’t imagine my life without knowing Peru; it opened my eyes to new perspectives and adventures that other parts of the world can’t offer.
To decide which destinations to visit, focus on one region of Peru at a time; the south, central, or north. Start out by knowing how limited you are timewise. Time will likely be the most limiting factor for any itinerary for Peru.
For example, don’t visit more than two regions if you only have a week (and even that is tight). Otherwise you’ll find yourself spending a lot more money on plane tickets or much more time in buses than you may like (Peru is the size of 3 Californias!). So I recommend figuring out what you absolutely have to see, and work from there.
If you definitely want to start with the big-ticket destinations like Cuzco, Machu Picchu, and Sacred Valley in the South, here’s an overview on Southern Peru.
Other Excellent Destinations
For a long-overlooked region that deserves consideration for any Peru itinerary, check out Central Peru. This is home to old German colonies in the jungle, rural communities holding on to traditional ways of life in the Andes, and beaches and hikes just a day’s trip from Lima.
The Andes and jungle of this region have been recognized for holding onto their ancient customs a bit longer. Here you’ll be off the beaten path where only a few intrepid backpackers, Peruvian and international, venture. It’s a great place to reset your perspective and take in unbelievable landscapes and cultural experiences.
And last, but definitely not least, Northern Peru, including its beaches, has been gaining in popularity over the past few years, yet is far from being overrun by tourists. The cultures of Northern Peru left behind pyramids on the coast and fortresses in the clouds, and all are worthy of consideration.
The North also has the country’s tallest waterfalls and large lakes for hiking opportunities. Peruvians from other regions often admit the North has the best food, too (a hard thing to admit!).
Top Experiences by Region
Here are the top activities in each region of Peru to help you figure out what to consider for your itinerary:
If you’re looking for something less populated with Gringos, there are several great Inca trail alternatives that get you to Machu Picchu with similar sights and experiences, such as the Lares, Salkantay, and Extreme Inca hikes
The mountain made famous by Instagram, Rainbow Mountain in Cuzco
Hiking in Arequipa, such as the El Misti volcano or Colca Canyon to see the condors in action
Sandboarding Cerro Blanco (near Nazca) or dune buggying in Huacachina
Staying in an ecolodge in the Amazon jungle
Getting mesmerized by the world’s highest freshwater lake and the fascinating night sky at Lake Titicaca
Exploring world-class treks and glaciers in Huaraz
Enjoying the ever-more popular sites of Chachapoyas: the ancient fortress of Kuelap, the waterfalls of Gocta and Yumbilla (2 of the highest in the world!), mysterious sarcophagi overlooking hikers, and various multi day hikes to archaeological sites and lakes
Visiting Iquitos, the largest non-road accessible city in the world, by boat
Surfing or just chilling in the coast of Northern Peru
Checking out ancient Moche pyramids and the giant Chimu city of Chan Chan
Visiting the top-10 globally ranked museum of Sipan
The peak season for Peru is from June through August. This coincides with the dry season in the Andes and much of the jungle. You may find good deals in the shoulder season during the months of April, May, or October.
Lima is grey and dry all year except from late November through March, when it is warm and sunny. The rest of the coast is sunny year-round.
Budgeting
No matter your budget, you can make an itinerary for Peru. You can find a hostel for S/ 10-15 per night. Or end up paying US-style rates to be spoiled by the big chains and expensive hotels.
Day-to-day costs are intermediate but considerably lower than in the US, UK, and Canada.
Prices in peru
The Peruvian Nuevo Sol tends to be worth about 1/3 of a US dollar.
Food & drink
Set price lunches at menus can cost S/ 10 or less and include an appetizer and juice.
A liter of Cusquena beer can go from S/ 5 at a store to over S/ 10 at some restaurants.
Freshly squeezed juice goes for S/ 1 at city markets and sidewalks
transportation
Uber and Easy Taxi operate in Lima and can be cheaper (and safer) than haggling on the street. A taxi from the airport to most touristy areas of Lima goes from S/ 40-70 depending on the time of day. Cross-city costs up to S/ 15, also depending on traffic. The intracity buses are very complicated but charge up to S/ 5. I prefer the Metropolitano, a series of efficient buses that costs S/ 2.50 per trip. This goes through the neighborhoods of Barranco, Miraflores, San Isidro, and the center of the city (Lima Centro).
Minibuses for intracity trips in cities outside of Lima charge up to S/ 3, depending on length of travel. Taxis are also cheaper outside of Lima. Many towns have mototaxis which are more rickety but cheaper, at maximum 2-3 soles per person. They are best for shorter trips.
Intercity bus rides of 6+ hours have different levels of service. You can find tickets for basic seats and service for as little as S/ 30. But a fully 180 degree reclining seat can go for S/ 100+ for overnight journeys. These prices depend greatly on the destination.
Note: Prices for everything spike during Holy Week, Independence Day (July 28th), and the last half of December.
Currency
The Peruvian Nuevo Sol is symbolized as S/. It is normally worth about one-third of a US dollar.
Languages
Peru has several official languages, the most common of which are Spanish, Quechua, and Aymara. Spanish is spoken widely throughout the country. Quechua is common in the Andes and Aymara is almost exclusively spoken in the region of Puno around and in Lake Titicaca.
All visitors should have routine vaccinations up to date
All visitors should have their measles and yellow fever vaccinations
They also recommend visitors to get the vaccinations for typhoid, hepatitis A and hepatitis B
If going to the jungle, talk to a doctor about preventing malaria
Travelers should consider a rabies shot if they are doing adventure travel, caving, will be working with animals, or are going to remote areas
Let’s Start Your Itinerary for Peru Now
Are you already picturing your trip? First, let’s decide on where to visit in Peru: Check out what to do in the South, North or Central.
I developed these adventure guides to help you get the most out of your time traveling, and to save you from hours of time spent researching and planning.
Comment below: What’s your inspiration for travel? When do you want to visit Peru?
