Tag: Peru

Hikes in Machu Picchu

hikes in Machu Picchu. Entrance to Huanya Picchu

Warm sun hits the gleam of sweat on your face, and you trudge over stones that were laid centuries ago while ignoring an adjacent cliffside. You pump your legs up stairs that promise riveting views of the Andean landscape, the same seductive sights that enraptured the Incas and draw thousands of annual visitors to Peru’s most popular (and expensive) attraction.

The dry air has a light sweetness to it. Giant orchids and zipping hummingbirds highlight the low vegetation around you. From over a thousand feet below, a rushing river provides a continuous background to the sounds of your companions’ breathing and the occasional conversation.

This isn’t just a dreamy picture of exploration; it is made reality when you hike Machu Picchu. But before you go, you must prepare. What are your hiking options? How should you get ready, both physically and mentally?

Read on as we answer these questions. And then read our article on Machu Picchu for all the facts you’ll need to visit the actual site (not just the hikes).

The Normal Machu Picchu Ticket

The Ministry of Culture offers 5 different loops (circuits) for visitors to Machu Picchu. These divide up travelers, resulting in a lower daily impact on the site. Your ticket will only include one circuit. This is considered a “normal” ticket for Machu Picchu.

The circuits are relatively new and vary in length. It’s best to get the latest information on each one from the Ministry of Culture’s website (where you can also buy tickets).

But while the circuits take 1.5-3 hours to complete, they are more of a stroll than a hike. If you want to really hike at Machu Picchu there are three options: Huchuy Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and Machu Picchu Mountain.

Note: There is also an option to see the Incan bridge, but this is a short walk and not what most would consider a hike (especially compared to the other three).

Add-on Hikes in Machu Picchu

When you buy tickets for Machu Picchu, you will have the option to buy a ticket that includes one of these hikes. You can only buy one ticket per day, and the circuit at Machu Picchu will be determined by the hike you choose.

For example, you will take a circuit through the lower part of Machu Picchu if you hike Huayna Picchu or Huchuy Picchu, and you’ll walk the upper part of the site if hiking Machu Picchu Mountain.

Your ticket for the hike will also be timed. That means you’ll have a designated hour to show up at the hike’s entrance, where you will then sign in.

Rock and thatched roof stone buildings
This rock is next to the entrance for Huchuy and Huayna Picchu. The Incas shaped the boulder in the same form as the mountain directly behind it, which was a common practice of theirs.

Huchuy Picchu

This is the most recently-opened, and shortest, of the three. At only 1 km (0.62 miles) long, the Huchuy Picchu hike is a vertiginous push to the top of the mountain that lies between Machu Picchu and the taller Huayna Picchu.

Huchuy Picchu isn’t long, but hiking it involves navigating a narrow, towering mountainside trail. Most arrive to the top within 15-20 minutes, and the descent takes 10-15 minutes.

a couple standing in front of stone archaeological site and green mountains
See the green hump all the way to the left, directly behind the stone buildings? That’s Huchuy Picchu! To the right is the larger Huayna Picchu

Huayna Picchu

Huanya Picchu is the most popular of the three hikes in Machu Picchu. That’s because it takes less time to complete than Machu Picchu Mountain and the trail arrives to the top of a mountain taller than Huchuy Picchu.

The ascent and descent take about 2 hours total. Much like at Huchuy Picchu, this 4km (2.5 mile) adventure will pump your adrenaline and put you face-to-face with any fear of heights lurking in your subconscious.

narrow, steep stone steps
One section of Huayna Picchu

Machu Picchu Mountain

The Machu Picchu Mountain hike starts at the opposite side of Machu Picchu than the other two. The 3-4 hour hike involves countless stairs- still on the side of the mountain, but not quite as narrow as those at Huayna or Huchuy Picchu.

All the effort is worth it, as you’ll arrive to the tallest summit at 3,082 meters (10,112 feet) above sea level.

And that will give you an excellent photo opportunity of the Machu Picchu complex, Huchuy Picchu and Huayna Picchu- if the clouds permit, that is :)

This is a moderately difficult hike that I only recommend if you have the time. Remember you’ll want time to tour Machu Picchu itself as well.

How to Hike Machu Picchu for Cheap

There technically is an option to hike Machu Picchu for free, although it is more of a hike to, not within, the actual site. The 8km (5 mile) path is easy to find because it is adjacent to the bus route for Machu Picchu.

Most people complete the hike in 1-2 hours. It’s totally uphill; you start at Aguas Calientes (an altitude of 389 meters or 1,276 feet), and end up at Machu Picchu (1,279 meters or 4,196 feet)!

A less strenuous option is to take the path down to Aguas Calientes after visiting Machu Picchu. Either way, just make sure to pack plenty of water.

Oh, and remember to get a bus ticket for the route that you won’t be hiking (to Machu Picchu or back to Aguas Calientes)!

Can You Hike Machu Picchu Without a Guide?

Yes, you can hike any of these without a guide. Guides are great for providing cultural context to the experience (and as another pair of hands for taking photos), but hiring one is not a requirement. Of course, you will be provided a guide if you purchase a tour package.

The first steps of the Huayna Picchu hike

Training for Hiking Machu Picchu

Anyone in good shape will do fine on these hikes. But remember, each hike is in addition to the 1.5-3 hours you’ll need to tour Machu Picchu.

The most difficult aspects are mental and the altitude. For the first, I recommend doing several 4-hour long hikes wearing a backpack (ideally with steep inclines) in the weeks leading up to traveling. If you can practice in a spot with steep drop-offs, even better.

The altitude aspect will take care of itself if you spend time in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before going to Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu is at a lower altitude than those areas. You should take at least 48 hours to acclimate to the altitude before hiking in Machu Picchu.

people using all fours to go up stone stairway

How Many Hikes are There to Machu Picchu?

For hiking to (not within) Machu Picchu, there are are several options. These vary from the 2-day Inca Trail (which we did in August 2022!) to 4-8 day options.

Conclusion

Including a hike greatly adds to the adventure of visiting Machu Picchu. This is whether you pick Huchuy Picchu, Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain or the hike from Aguas Calientes. And as long as you are in reasonably good shape, you’ll do fine.

Get in some practice hikes before landing in Peru so you’ll be mentally ready.

And make sure you have enough time to catch your train back to Cusco!

Thinking of doing one of these hikes? Then read our post on visiting Machu Picchu– this provides all the basic need-to-know information (including what to pack)!

Please leave a comment if you’ve done one of these hikes. Thanks for reading :)

man with two thumbs up and green mountains in background
Our guide, Abraham from Peru Summit Adventures, at the top of Huayna Picchu!

Peru 2022 Adventure: An Epic August Awaits!

Finally it’s happening. The world had a pandemic and we had a child, at literally the same time. He was born in March 2020.

That would be the exact month everything around us shut down.

And for two years, we lived through Covid craziness, dirty diapers, and understanding this new stage in life. At times we thought of when we’d go back to Peru. We knew the trip would have to be epic, since so much time had passed.

We talked with family and friends about it, partly to just talk about something when the world was shut down, partly to convince them to come. I squeezed out literally every hour possible of my paid time off at the real job. And with two of our friends we came up with an inspiring itinerary that had me giddy for months.

Now, finally, we are going back. Here’s what we’ll be doing in the Land of the Incas:

2022 Peru Trip: The 17-day Epic

Our friends had never been to Peru and wanted to go to Machu Picchu. And we all wanted to have an authentic adventure that wasn’t just in the touristy places. So to start off we we decided to go to Cuzco and hike to Machu Picchu.

The hike we chose is the Short Inca trail. This is a 2-day adventure that includes the final leg of the Inca Trail and a tour of Machu Picchu. We added on the hike to Huaynu Picchu, an (even more) restricted mountain next to Machu Picchu. The steep path has ladders and cables that take you to a beautiful vantage point of the site and surroundings.

We’ll have a day and a half in Cuzco afterwards to explore the city and maybe visit a Sacred Valley site. I’d love to see Chinchero and its famous weavers. But there will be a tight time constraint.

From there, it will be one whirlwind day of travel to take us to the cloud forest paradise of Oxapampa. “Oxa” is off the radars for most international tourists (to our gain!).

In Oxapampa we will stay at a lodge near the middle of town. We’ll have a big family reunion since Janina’s extended family lives there. It’s long overdue.

When not visiting family we may hike in a national park, try the Bavarian-inspired breweries, or take a tour of a native community. Or all three.

A few days later we’ll also try out an ecolodge just outside of town. Everything is included, including experiences. You can pick one a day, out of zip lining, rappelling, night tours, and more.

What can be better than an all-inclusive ecolodge in the cloud forest with every option to satiate our need for adventure?!

Finally, we finish up in Lima. There we’ll eat the food, maybe surf the sea, maybe paraglide over the cliffs, maybe bike the town, and maybe take a food tour. There’s a lot of maybes because this will be a recharge spot after Oxapampa.

Except the food. The food in Latin America’s gastronomic capital is never a maybe but a HELL YES!

What’s Next

The site is going silent for a few weeks since we’ll be away. But once we return, you’ll get the most updated information on Fun & Earth-Friendly Travel in Peru, including:

  • Comprehensive, honest reviews of hotels and lodges where we stayed
  • Videos and written accounts of the Short Inca Trail and the activities we try in Oxapampa and Lima, plus our recommendations
  • Our full itinerary, complete with links to hotels and tour operators we liked, with videos and photos (thank you, new GoPro!)

I can’t wait for this trip, and I can’t wait to share it all with you. Thanks for following Gringo Inca. Be sure to like us on Pinterest and to send our stuff to friends and family members who may be like-minded travelers.

Stay cool & stay free!!!!!!

Abrazos

– Brad

Souvenirs to Buy in Peru That Benefit Locals

souvenirs to buy in peru: person in colorful market shop

Nobody likes finding out the special souvenir they bought was actually mass-produced and not even from the country they visited! Fortunately, you’ll have LOTS of options for souvenirs to buy in Peru. And it’s easy to make sure your purchase benefits someone local. You just need to follow a few simple tips.

The Market

Most importantly, know where to buy things! Every major city (and even small towns) has a tourist market.

Yes, these are touristy by definition. But they are actually great spots to buy authentic, locally-made stuff. And it’s easy to know if the product is local. Just ask the vendor- who is often the the maker too.

What to Buy

Definitely try out the woolen products like sweaters, scarves, and hats. If it’s made from alpaca, even better :)

alpacas resting on grass
So fuzzy. So warm.

Handmade bags are a great way to personalize your trip or gift too.

Not a fan of wool? Tourist markets also have artists who sell their paintings, ceramics, and traditional Peruvian gourds called burilados.

If you want to buy food, I recommend coffee or chocolate. That’s because artisan coffee and chocolate in Peru come from small-scale farmers in often remote areas of the country.

What to Avoid

Honestly, I just try to buy directly from the maker of the product. This is easy in Peru since so many wool, art, or coffee/chocolate products are artisanal and sold in local markets.

If it looks mass-produced or you can’t figure out who made it, then there’s a good chance the profits aren’t going to the local community.

woman in bowler hat weaving
And we don’t like that

Conclusion

You won’t break the bank finding souvenirs to buy in Peru. And by purchasing the right thing, you’ll help local economies and have a cool, useful conversation piece for the rest of your life!

Of course, the main purpose of visiting is something besides shopping for most of us. Make sure you’ve picked the right experiences so you don’t miss out! Check out our sample itineraries to get started on an adventure you can feel good about :)

Transportation in Peru: How to Get Around

red and white bus- transportation in peru

“Transportation in Peru” is one of the most-Googled phrases by visitors to the country, and this is for a good reason. Traffic in the city is INSANE, and roads in the interior are generally not safe for foreign drivers.

Fortunately there are safe, sometimes even comfortable, public transportation options. These depend on your specific location in Peru, so I broke this down into two categories: transportation between cities, and transportation within cities.

How to Get Around in Peru

City-to-City Transportation

Bus

Buses are by far the most popular way to travel in Peru. The great thing is, most companies offer a 180-degree reclining option, or “buscama“. And the food and drink options (included) tend to be decent.

The obvious downside is trip length. For example, if you only have 2 weeks you probably won’t want to spend a full day to get to Cusco. And those long trips can cost almost as much as a plane ticket.

Safety is another issue. Narrow roads with no guardrail and bandits at night are common dangers, so use a reputable bus provider. Well-known companies for safety are Cruz del Sur, Movil and Peru Hop.

Your options narrow dramatically when off the tourist trail. Be prepared to travel in a small bus with no amenities (like the one pictured at the beginning of this article). This doesn’t mean the trip is dangerous or scary; ask locals for tips if you’re worried about a particular means of transportation.

Plane

This is the most-used form of transportation in Peru by tourists. Peru is like anywhere- plane rides are shorter, more expensive, and safer than other options. Most domestic plane rides are under 3 hours.

The good news is that you can find round-trip tickets for under $100. These prices are offered by cut-rate airlines, but Avianca and Latam offer good rates at times.

Train

There are not many trains in Peru but they provide cool, unique options:

  • Arica to Chile: Ride this for the experience! Arica isn’t very touristy, so this train is a quirky addition to any trip.
  • Cusco (or Sacred Valley) to Machu Picchu: Inca Rail and Peru Rail offer the most popular (and fastest) way to arrive to Machu Picchu. Peruvians can take the inexpensive local train. Peru Rail also offers a first-class service to Puno.
  • Huancavelica-Huancayo: The amazingly-named “Tren Macho” is an affordable option that Peruvians take through the Central Andes. Get a ticket that includes a lunch buffet!
  • Lima-Huancayo: This is a daylong ride to the Central Andes and one of the highest passenger train services in the world. It’s beautiful, and the ride is the attraction more than the destination. However the train only goes once a month and is pretty pricey.

Boat

Multi-day boat trip schedules depend on the weather and logistics, and are only for transportation in the jungle. The most popular is any variation of the trip to Iquitos.

Moving in the City

How you get around Peruvian cities depends greatly on the city. But these are the most common forms:

  • App: Uber, DiDi and Cabify are considered the best. Since the apps track where you are, it’s safer than hailing a random taxi from the street.
  • Bus: This is the cheapest way to get around. I always check with hotel staff or someone knowledgeable to make sure I get on the right bus beforehand. Also ask how long the trip will take (it can take a LOT longer than a taxi). If the bus is crowded be aware of your belongings. Lima and other cities have introduced electric buses, making this a cleaner form of travel.
  • “Moto”: Oh man. My favorite way to travel in town is by moto-taxi! These resemble the tuk-tuks of Southeast Asia. They are generally cheaper than a taxi but more expensive (and faster) than a bus.
  • Taxi: Of course, you can always just hail a taxi from the street. Make sure it and the driver pass the “eye test” for safety and be ready to haggle.

Transportation in Peru: Conclusion

Hopefully this article answered your questions on getting around in Peru. Please write any questions below!

If you’re ready to go to Peru check out a sample itinerary to get started :)

Why You Should Try Calientito When You Visit Peru

The ingredients for my perfect Chamis on a cold night!

Coziness doesn’t usually come in a plastic cup that a stranger hands you. But that was my introduction to Calientito.

Calientito is a warm drink made with Pisco, and it’s a tasty way to enjoy cold Andean nights. In this case it was prepared in a giant pot, and a señora poured it into plastic cups with a ladle. I gratefully sipped the steaming liquid and noticed lime and Pisco as the drink warmed me up.

In that part of Peru the drink is actually called Chamis. I imagine this is the Quechua name for Calientito. But what really matters is, Calientito is the perfect way to pass a cold evening. And if you want to sample it, you can find the ingredients at home!

calientito- handsome man with Pisco bottle
Sad because it’s cold and you don’t know what to do with all this Pisco?
same handsome man with drink
Have no fear! Calientitos are here!

Why Calientito is The Best Drink When It’s Cold

In that village on the side of a mountain, there were a few ways to avoid the worst of the cold. But nightly temperatures lowered to almost-freezing, and in the rainy season there seemed to be no escape.

The whole town was in bed by 8PM every day. And every bed had so many heavy blankets it was almost impossible to move under them.

Someone had also told me adobe was a good insulator, but I doubted this in the middle of freezing nights. I later recalled she moved to the warmer coast and had been there for years when she told me this.

Still, calientito is my favorite way to warm up on cold Peruvian nights. It’s a warm drink to begin with, and of course the alcohol gives a feeling of warmth too. Since it’s found in bars and shared in streets there is a social aspect. In the village this was a big plus because my Spanish skills were weak, making calientito a great way to connect with my new neighbors.

My Recipe

This is a simple drink to make. Make sure you have the following:

  • 1 lime
  • 1-2 shots of Pisco
  • 1 tsp of honey
  • Hot tea (any kind works- I prefer green tea)

Once the tea is ready, add the honey and Pisco. Finally, cut the lime in half and squeeze the juice into the drink. You have Calientito!

Conclusion

Definitely try this at home! It’s tasty and a cool cultural experience in a time when travel isn’t super realistic.

When you are ready to experience Peru’s amazing food scene and drink a Chamis in the Andes, consider using ethical hotels.

And check out these itineraries to have the best South American adventure!

Peru Travel Restrictions & Opening During Coronavirus

Peru travel restrictions: grab a coffee and start trip planning! Grey coffee press with beans and a map of Peru.
Photo by Lukas on Pexels.com
Quarantine is a great chance to take advantage of extra time to plan your trip! So grab a cup of coffee and start your epic adventure

All You Need to Know on Peru Travel Restrictions and Reopening During Coronavirus

Latest News on Peru Reopening: Updated November 2, 2020

FREE ENTRANCE TO MUSEUMS THROUGH NOVEMBER 15!!

If you’re in Peru, definitely take advantage of this deal. With its history and archaeology, Peru has excellent museums (especially Lima and Cusco, but don’t miss the museum of Sipan up north, either!). Go for free through November 15. You have to wear a mask and take your temperature to enter.

The Covid-19 pandemic is lasting longer in many countries than we hoped. Because of this I’ll update this page regularly. In Peru travel restrictions may change so keep checking this and your embassy’s webpage.

**Peru Moves to Stage 4 Reopening**

This means limited international flights, specifically from Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Mexico. This may change quickly (and hopefully the list will grow!).

Flight & Border Restrictions

  • International Flights: You must show evidence of a negative Covid test, taken no longer than 48 hours before departure
  • Domestic flights: You will get your temperature taken upon boarding and must have a mask and shield. Also, you must sign a declaration that you are not knowingly sick.
  • Bus transportation will also follow these safety measures.
  • ONLY TICKETED INDIVIDUALS are allowed to travel. Because of this, no standing is allowed on buses
  • Embassies are providing information on repatriation flights Callao. See links to embassies below.

All foreign visas extend until end of crisis

Border status: Borders are ONLY open to leave and go back to country. But contact your embassy before buying a ticket to avoid any mistakes.

If you are Peruvian: You must self quarantine for 14 days after arriving to Peru. There are additional restrictions if you come from a high impacted area. These are Brazil, Iran, China, and some European countries as of July 27th.

Tips & Info for Making Reservations

If you book a flight, hotel, or tour, make sure it is fully refundable. At least make sure you can postpone your reservation.

Links and Resources

The best way to stay informed is to read your country’s embassy page. These update regularly. Plus you can sign up for notifications:

Australia: //peru.embassy.gov.au/lima/home.html

UK: //www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-peru

USA: //pe.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/

Living In Peru has a good updated page on the pandemic in Peru, too:

//www.livinginperu.com/coronavirus-covid-19-peru-updates/

For the most comprehensive and up to date info go to ExploreCuscoPeru.

So keep your mask on, wash your hands and social distance. Let’s get through this as safely and quickly as possible!

Northern Peru Sample Itinerary: How To Plan Your Adventure

stone circular buildings

Northern Peru is the most difficult part of the country for crafting an itinerary. This region is huge (Peru is at its widest in its northern part), and you can’t easily access major cities. So it took some creativity to create this 10-day Northern Peru sample itinerary.

This itinerary can be used to mix-and-match with others. It’s a great way to see the jungle, mountains, and coast of Northern Peru. And you won’t feel you’re inside a bus the whole time. Finally, it’s perfect if you want to visit nearby Ecuador afterwards.

If you have more than 10 days, then check out additional options for Mancora, Iquitos, and Chachapoyas, too!

Don’t Miss The Top Experiences

Days 1-3: The Waters & Jungle of Tarapoto

Hop on the 1 hour, 20 minute flight from Lima to the jungle town of Tarapoto. Northern Peru is gigantic. So it’s hard to fit in a jungle trip if you just have 10 days. Because of this Tarapoto is an excellent option. It offers great adventure experiences and is relatively close to your next stop.

top experiences in tarapoto

  • Partying hard during happy hour at the Street of Stones (Calle de las Piedras)
  • Rafting the Mayo River
  • Having your choice of hikes to waterfalls: Huacamaillo (12 km/7.5 miles from town); Ahuashiyacu (15 km/9.3 miles out); Pucayaquillo (22 km/13.7 miles); or Carpishuyacu (34 km/21 miles).
  • Hiking the Alto Shilcayo route in the Cordillera Escalera Regional Conservation Area. This starts only 600 meters (1,969 feet) from the town’s main plaza
  • Checking out the medieval style castle of Lamas.

where to stay in tarapoto

To get a better appreciation of the jungle, check out Cordillera Escalera Ecolodge.

Days 4-7: Chacha Chillin’

Northern Peru sample itinerary: restored building at Kuelap
Restored building at Kuelap

Catch a van or bus (they start leaving at 6:30AM) to arrive to Chachapoyas early afternoon. “Chacha” is a charming, walkable, cobblestoned town. It’s surrounded by excellent history and adventure opportunities.

Close to Chacha are Peru’s tallest waterfalls and pre-Incan cities located above the clouds (Chachapoyas translates to “warriors of the clouds”). Also there are famous, mysterious mummies. And that’s all just the start.

The city is 2,335 meters above sea level (7,661). So I recommend taking it easy on your first day.

top experiences in chachapoyas

  • Day hike to some of the highest falls in Peru, Gocta or Yumbilla
  • Take the cable car to the Chachapoyas’ culture’s main citadel, Kuelap
  • Hike to the mysterious sarcophagi of Karajia
  • Visit the museum and mummies of Leymebamba
  • Walk around the canyon of Huanca next door to Chachapoyas
  • Eat a classic local snack from the market- popcorn with ants!
  • Take the Coffee Route (Ruta de Café) and explore specialty coffee shops in town
Sarcophagi of Karajia
entrance to cafe in Chachapoyas, peru
A delicious stop along Chachapoyas’ Coffee Route!
Northern Peru sample itinerary: pretty girl holding fruit at a market.
There are a TON of exotic fruits to try in Chacha and Tarapoto

where to chill in chacha

When we visited Chachapoyas we loved Casa Hospedaje Teresita. That’s because the location was great, the rooms were comfy, and the people were warm.

Days 8-9: Sipán & Surf in Chiclayo

4 palm trees with 2 bicycles and a boat and ocean in background. Pimentel beach, peru

Finish your trip enjoying delicious seafood, popular beaches, and archaeological wonders! If you can, take the night bus from Chachapoyas to save a day of travel.

top experiences in chiclayo

  • Surfing at the beaches of Pimentel and Puerto Eten
  • Exploring the Valley of Pyramids at Túcume
  • Visiting one of the top-ranked museums in the world to see the Señor de Sipan
  • Eating, souvenir shopping, and seeing a cultural show at nearby Monsefú
Puerto Eten
Tomb at the Señor de Sipan musem

where to stay in chiclayo

Most of the options in Chiclayo are standard hotels. I found well-run ecolodges hard to find. So we stayed at Casa Andina. It has a pool and an UNBEATABLE Peruvian breakfast buffet.

Day 10: Back to Lima

Fly or bus to Lima. Alternatively, take a bus or plane to the hotspot of Máncora or Cuenca, Ecuador. (See “add ons: if you have more time” below)

Northern Peru Sample Itinerary Add-ons: If You Have More Time

Reed boats next to the ocean at sunset with pier in background. Huanchaco, Peru.
Local have used these reed boats at Huanchaco for centuries! They fish and surf with these “caballitos de totora”. And you’ll spot these at the beaches near Chiclayo, too.

There are some great adventure options near each of these locations if you have a few extra days. For this reason, add one of these to your trip if you have more time:

Iquitos: Boat it Up

Instead of flying to Tarapoto, boat to Iquitos from Pucallpa. Spend some days in the world’s largest non-road accessible city. Also check out the pink dolphins and Amazonian rivers at Pacaya Samiria National Reserve.

To arrive to Tarapoto from Iquitos take a 12 hr ferry from Nauta to Yurimaguas. From Yurimaguas, Tarapoto is a 2-3 hour car ride.

Condor Lake: Combine Cool & Creepy Near Chachapoyas

Take a multiday hike from Chachapoyas. The Laguna de los Condores trek takes you to tombs abandoned over 500 years ago. This hike is based around a beautiful lake. And you’ll explore 18 ancient gravesites.

Máncora Option

Take the 5hr bus ride from Chiclayo to Mancora or nearby beaches. Máncora is a party and surf capital in the Northern coast. Check out quieter spots just north or south of the town if party towns aren’t your vibe.

Beach It Up!

If you return to Lima from Chiclayo, break up the 14.5 hour bus ride with multiple stops along the coast. Consider Huanchaco (get off at Trujillo, a 15 minute taxi ride away) or Casma. Just outside of Lima are the amazing beaches and hot springs of Norte Chico, too.

Best Time to Visit Northern Peru

Try to avoid the rainy season from November through April. Especially avoid the rainiest months, January and February. Transportation can be dangerous, and towns in general shut down in these months.

Since the coast is a desert, this only applies to the Andes and jungle.

Conclusion

I hope this Northern Peru sample itinerary helps you in trip planning!

Message me at GringoInca@gmail.com if you have questions.

Top Backpacks for Peru: Which One to Buy Now

Photo by Ashim D’Silva on Unsplash

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my disclaimer here.

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.

My Personal Top Backpacks for Peru

Day Pack: Cotopaxi Allpa 28L or 35L Travel Pack

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:

BackpackIdeally Suited forStandout 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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Have you used these products or have other recommendations for a Peru packing list? Please leave a comment below!

Buy the Best Hiking Boots for Peru in 2020

Photo by Ashim D’Silva on Unsplash

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my disclaimer here.

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:

BootUnique Features
KEEN Targhee Vent MidCleansport NXT helps provide natural odor control. Water resistant. Breathable design.
La Sportiva Blade GTXWaterproof mesh made with GoreTex. Runs a tad small. Vegan.
Oboz Sawtooth II Mid BDryEVA midsole designed for extra cushioning and stability. At least water resistant.
Zamberlan Trail Lite EVO GTXCan be resoled. Waterproof. Italian-made.
Best Boots for Peru
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And if you have other recommendations or have a question, leave a comment below!