I had always dreamed of travelling to South America and Peru sat firmly at the top of my list.
It was one of those “someday” destinations…and then I made it happen.
One day in March, I felt an unexpected urge to book an overseas holiday. There was no long lead-up or careful planning – just a growing sense that if I didn’t act now, I might keep putting it off indefinitely.
The catch? I only had a 10-day window, including travel time. Two days later I was booked on Intrepid Travel’s Classic Peru tour in conjunction with flights.
The tour covered the country’s must-see highlights in just over a week, an ambitious schedule, but exactly what I needed. Five weeks later, I was boarding my Latam Airlines flight, bound for a country I had only ever imagined visiting.
My adventure began in Lima, where I met my tour leader, Leo, and 10 fellow travellers who would soon become my companions for the journey ahead.
As a group, we explored the highlights of this sprawling, vibrant capital. We gathered for a welcome dinner, sharing stories, expectations and a growing sense of excitement for what lay ahead with a Pisco Sour in hand!
We flew to Cusco, a city with a great atmosphere, full of character and old-world charm. Cusco sits at an altitude of 3,450 metres above sea level and therefore, presents a unique challenge.
Leo briefed us on the effects of altitude and the importance of acclimatisation. We were encouraged to slow our pace, take it easy and allow our bodies time to adjust.
It was a gentle but necessary reminder that this journey wasn’t just about ticking off landmarks, but also about adapting to an entirely different environment.
Leo was attentive throughout, checking in with us daily to see how we were adjusting to the altitude and monitoring our blood oxygen levels. It was reassuring to know that our wellbeing was a priority, especially in an environment so different from what most of us were used to.
The hotels selected by Intrepid Travel were also well equipped for these conditions, with oxygen tanks available on-site if needed, an added layer of comfort that allowed us to focus on enjoying the experience while feeling supported every step of the way.
Over the next couple of days, we journeyed through the incredible Sacred Valley, visiting a local community where we were welcomed warmly and given a glimpse into daily life in the Andes.
We also visited AMA Cafe, a social enterprise that supports single mothers by providing employment and training opportunities, a truly touching experience.
We boarded a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, at the foot of Machu Picchu. The next day we took an early bus up the winding road followed by a short hike and then, suddenly, Machu Picchu revealed itself.
No photo, video, or words could ever truly do it justice. The feeling I had is comparable to the first time I saw the pyramids in Egypt – a surreal, pinch me moment. If you’re short on time, this is easily the best way to experience Machu Picchu.
The following day was ours to spend as we pleased and a few of us opted for an excursion to the memorable Rainbow Mountains.
Sitting at an incredible 4,890 metres above sea level, the climb was challenging in the thin air, but every step was worth it to witness the mountain’s surreal bands of colour and its calming atmosphere. It was unlike anything I had experienced before and highly recommended.
Then it was on the road to Puno, heading towards legendary Lake Titicaca – the highest navigable lake in the world.
We visited the incredible floating islands, stepping into a way of life that felt worlds away from our own, before arriving at our homestay. No luxuries here, just genuine connection, warm welcomes and unforgettable moments with our local host families.
It’s experiences like these that truly put things into perspective. Just make sure you pack warm clothing, as it was freezing in this area.
Our trip concluded back in Lima with a beautiful farewell dinner, where I tried ceviche for the first time – the national dish of Peru.
What began as a fleeting idea soon turned into a real plan – proof that some of the best adventures start with a simple, impulsive decision that truly suits your needs.
Yes, the tour was fast paced, but it packed a punch in a limited time, without compromising on the main sights or the chance to experience the depth of Peruvian culture.
Maria Piliouras | Personal Travel Manager | TravelManagers
