Things to do in Cusco – The Ultimate Cusco Travel Guide
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Welcome to the Ultimate Cusco Travel Guide Introducing our new 2019 edition of the Ultimate Cusco Travel Guide in which we'll cover things to do in Cusco. If you are heading to Machu Picchu, chances are you are flying into the beautiful city of Cusco - formerly an Inca capital now turned tourist mecca. Furthermore, what many people don't realise is if you aren't spending a lot of time here, you could miss out on some seriously amazing experiences that really embody the heart and soul of Peru. With its (seemingly) never-ending festivals, bright colours,...
Bolivia’s Torotoro National Park
Chances are you haven’t heard of Torotoro National Park, and we don’t blame you. Bolivia’s highlights wall normally features Salar de Uyuni, La Paz and Lago Titicaca among others; for some reason Torotoro, by large, has escaped the tourist limelight. Until now. Due to become a UNESCO World Heritage site by the end of 2019, this incredible national park will finally be getting the attention it deserves. Make sure and visit the phenomenal canyons, dinosaur footprints, astonishing caverns and unique sinclinales before the crowds arrive.
Our Salta Travel Guide- Argentina
In the far north-west reaches of the colossal country that is Argentina, Salta is a little different from other South American cities. If you choose to visit – and you really should – you’ll enjoy an authentic Andean city with plenty to keep you entertained.
Found in 1582, Salta is far more Incan than European. The old colonial city boasts elaborate Spanish architecture, modern museums, Argentina’s best empanadas (that’s really saying something) and a fascinating Incan influence. You’ll find it at the foothill of the Andes. Surrounded by impressive mountains and jungle, it’s the perfect place to base yourself if you decide that you want to see the incredible surrounding scenery too. The highest vineyard in the world is nearby where you can try some outstanding high-altitude wine too.
Things to Do in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is electric. The Argentine capital is like no other place you’re likely to visit. Bursting with character, full to the brim with life, everything in this 13-million-strong city is an incessant show of passion, romance and dance. Here you’ll be surprised to find grand European buildings, elegant squares and calm café culture: but you’re never far away from the classic South American frenzy. Sip back delicious Malbec, and losen your belt for some of the world’s best asado. Get ready to explore beguiling neighborhoods with our guide to...
Hiking Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain?
Introduction & Statistics of Machu Picchu hikes For ages, speculation over which Machu Picchu trek promises a greater escapade has been a hotbed of debate. After all, would it be worthwhile to spend a longer time hiking Machu Picchu Mountain, therefore ending up at the highest peak possible, or, rather, unleash your inner daredevil traversing the steep cliffs of Huayna Picchu? Of course, the final say is yours. However, Machu Picchu Mountain has many unconsidered or overlooked beneficial attributes. Don't allow rash decision-making to derail the trip quality. Instead, take into account this brief overview standardizing the positives of trekking Machu...
5 reasons to hike the Huayhuash Trek | Huaraz | Peru
Huayhuash Trek Cordillera Huayhuash Peru Having backpacked around numerous parts of South America, the Huayhuash trek always stands out as being the most memorable. From its towering peaks, ascending more than 6600 meters, to the open sky almost touching the turquoise lagunas, the Huayhaush trek resembles heaven on earth. In fact, this 8-12 day hike circumnavigates the Cordillera Huayhuash mountain range (130 km or 81 miles). Therefore, you can witness a panoramic view of this rocky terrain. Once here, you'll be able to walk amongst these colossal peaks, and visit some of the most iconic vistas...
Huaraz things to do | The ultimate travel guide 2019
When you hear of Peru Machu Picchu comes to mind, however the city of Huaraz things to do in the surrounding Cordillera's will leave you with another idea. South America has many hidden gems and stunning landscapes. Ranging from the jungles of the Amazon, to the snowcapped peaks of the Andes, the possibilities are endless. When it comes to the rugged landscape of the Andes however, few compare to the grandeur of Huaraz and surrounding mountains. Whether you are interested in a simple day trek to the famed Laguna 69 with...
Why You Should Participate in the Cusco Pottery Revival
Highlights *Experience the historic and renowned Cusco pottery culture with a living legend, Julio Guiterrez *Learn to create beautiful, hand crafted pottery as well as the mystical fables surrounding them *Get your hands dirty, craft and paint your own gorgeous piece of Peruvian pottery Why is Peruvian Pottery so famous? Peru has a rich and extensive history when it comes to pottery. Cusco pottery, in particular, has garnered a reputation as bastion of traditional ceramics. Peru, in ancient times was a hotbed of prominent Andean civilisations. The Incas were the most renowned of the bunch. They, along...
Peru’s Finest Vegan Cooking Class
Most outsiders accept the popular assumption that South American cuisine is strictly meat-dominated. But in fact, this statement mows over the vast complexity of Latin America cookery. That being said, get ready to blossom your culinary creativity with the Vegan Cooking Class in Cusco―a perfect opportunity to add a vegan twist to traditional Peruvian dishes. Of course, avoiding meat dishes when traveling across South America becomes a difficult task. Yet at the same time, many Peruvian dishes possess vegan-oriented ingredients. For example, the pseudocereal Quinoa originates from the Andes mountains, both in Peru and Bolivia. Naturally, with an increasing...
Things to do in Lima Peru
Our city guide for Lima, Peru Most people come to Peru to visit the Sacred Valley and ultimately Machu Picchu. However, if you are traveling through Peru the chances of you passing by this busy coastal capital city by plane or road are high. Lima, the second largest city in South America, has so much to offer every type of traveler - from backpackers to luxury holiday goers. The city center was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1988. There are endless things to do in Lima, Peru. Explore Pre-Incan ruins and discover...
Experiencing Peru’s traditions and history – Pachamama Ceremony
Visitors come to Peru for its beautiful and varied landscapes, its world-renowned cuisine and its people. They also visit for the deep history and traditions that have endured from the time of the Incas. One of these traditions is the Pachamama ceremony and I was thrilled to have the privilege of participating in this exclusive ceremony! Read on to hear about my experience sharing in this local custom and to learn more about Pachamama ceremony. What is the Pachamama Ceremony? The Pachamama ceremony, or “Offering to the Earth,” is a sacred ritual in which an offering...
Comfort, Style & Nature: Luxury Hotels In Sacred Valley
A little relaxation and pampering goes a long way on vacation, which is why you will love these incredible luxury hotels in Sacred Valley. Picture romantic suites, mountain views, candlelit dinners, pampering spa treatments and a host of luxuriating facilities. Peru's Sacred Valley, located about 30 kilometres from Cusco, is a treasure trove of natural wonders paired with history, culture, exciting foods and adventures. Of course, no trip to Peru would be complete without visiting its most famous Inca ruins, Machu Picchu. Yet, while you might think the Sacred Valley is nothing more than the location of...
8 Incredible Things To Do In Sacred Valley | Cusco
So, you're on your way to Cusco and Machu Picchu and you're wondering if there are enough things to do in Sacred Valley to warrant a visit? Well, what you might not realise is that the Sacred Valley of the Incas is so much more than just the location of its most famous site, Machu Picchu. In fact, this mystical and beautiful destination really does have everything you could want to complete your once-in-a-lifetime stay in Peru. It's got diverse Inca ruins and thrilling hiking, biking and rafting adventures. There are also an array of luxurious hotels, colourful...
Paradise Found: A Secret New Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Would you like to be one of the first to trek a secret, brand new Inca Trail to Machu Picchu that was only recently discovered? Of course, no trip to Peru would be complete without exploring the famous Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. One of the world's most iconic tourist destinations, this UNESCO world heritage site is internationally renowned as a must-see. But, did you know there is a new way to visit Peru’s top attraction? A recently unearthed pathway that remains so shrouded in mystery that very few people even know about it? I’m talking about the...
The Very Best Homestay Tours in Colca Canyon
Why are homestay tours in Colca Canyon so special? You've probably heard about Peru's famous Colca Canyon. After all, it is the second deepest canyon in the world. But, what you might not know is that the Colca Canyon is more than just a great place to experience incredible natural wonders. Yes, it's got giant condors, majestic volcanoes, hot springs and trekking adventures. However, if you take the time to look a little deeper, you will find a region that is also rich in history and tradition. The Collagua people of the Colca Valley have a culture that...
Why You Should Trek Peru’s Colca Canyon
If you love hiking and exploring, then a Colca Canyon trek in Peru provides the ultimate nature lover’s adventure. The Colca Canyon is one of Peru’s many drawcards, with its giant condors, majestic volcanoes, hot springs, historic churches and traditional Andean communities. The region is obviously overshadowed by Machu Picchu, but still provides some of the best trekking in the country. [caption id="attachment_12105" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Peru's Colca Canyon is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon.[/caption] Most noteworthy, at 3270 metres (10,725 feet), this Peruvian wonder is the second deepest canyon in the world,...
Bolivia Travel Guide – 10 Reasons To Visit
Welcome to our Bolivia travel guide, to help you discover the cultural diversity and astonishing natural beauty of Bolivia. Once the hidden secret of backpackers and explorers this intriguing country is now opening up to all kinds of travellers. In fact, visitor numbers are increasing all the time. There is a wealth of stunning natural terrain in Bolivia. From the high plains of the altiplano and snow-capped mountains to otherworldly salt flats and dense tropical rainforest. While also offering up bustling cosmopolitan cities, fascinating markets, colourful carnivals and unique local cuisine. Bolivia boasts one of the highest indigenous...
Visit Patagonia – Ultimate Travel Guide
Welcome to our Patagonia Travel Guide. Visit Patagonia with us and discover why this beguiling place on earth should find a spot on your travel bucket list. Patagonia is a land that offers unforgettable and unique experiences. So, it is a source of inspiration for writers, explorers and scientists alike. Visit Patagonia to feel the mystic power of nature. Experience the end-of-the-world feeling that pervades its untamed wilderness and the many villages and towns. Finally, travel slowly through this magical land and prepare to be astonished by Mother Nature on an...
Ultimate San Pedro de Atacama Travel Guide in Chile
Welcome to our San Pedro de Atacama Travel Guide, to make the most of your trip to this truly breathtaking array of natural wonders. From the magic of stargazing in pristine skies, to mesmerising views of salt flats scattered with flamingos, to the turquoise of the Lagunas Altiplánicas, there are so many trips to capture the imagination in the Atacama Desert. Plan your stay in the town of San Pedro de Atacama. The perfect base for exploring the enchanting landscapes of the surrounding desert that this San Pedro de Atacama Travel Guide...
Visit Bolivia – Our La Paz Travel Guide
Welcome to our La Paz travel guide, for all you need to know about of Latin America's most exciting and colourful capitals. La Paz is an absolute must-see place when visiting Bolivia. It is a city packed full of history and culture, where this diverse country collides in a captivating sprawl. The city lies in a canyon and surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Altiplano. La Paz is gifted with stunning mountain vistas in all directions. It therefore has the perfect blend of city vitality and natural beauty. This La Paz travel guide will give you an insight into...
Cooking Class in Cusco: A Culinary Experience
If you consider yourself a foodie with an appetite for Peruvian cuisine, then a cooking class in Cusco will surely satisfy your hunger. If you'd like to learn about local Peruvian produce before preparing and cooking your own traditional dishes in a beautiful rooftop kitchen, then this is one Cusco attraction you won't want to miss. Hear the sizzling of frying pans and smell the mouthwatering aromas of onion, garlic and mushrooms. Taste delicately cured trout and let the sweet and milky chirimoya fruit melt in your mouth. Sip a classic Peruvian cocktail on a...
10 Reasons to Visit Colombia: Our Colombia Travel Guide
Welcome to our Colombia travel guide, where you will discover 10 great reasons to visit this vibrant and beautiful country. Colombia is currently having its moment in the sun. Gone are the days when this South American hotspot was off-limits to foreigners because it was wrought with violent crime and drug cartels. The Colombia of today is a safe, affordable, diverse and fascinating place; its people as warm and inviting as the weather in the sweltering north. In fact, tourism in Colombia is experiencing phenomenal growth, with almost 250% more visitors compared with 10 years ago. The country was even named...
Top 10 Great Things to Do in Arequipa
In this Arequipa Travel Guide, you will discover all the wonder that awaits you with travel to Arequipa, the nearby Colca Valley and Peru's Colca Canyon. From the culinary magic of picanterias, to the crisp beauty of the sillar built White City, to the awe-inspiring view of the Andean Condors, trips in Arequipa offer a wealth to see and do. Plan time for a stay in the charming Colca Valley and add a Colca Canyon tour to your itinerary to fully experience all that this Arequipa Travel Guide offers. 1) Delight in the delicious Arequipeña cuisine Travel to...
10 reasons to start planning your next Ecuador vacation
Need an excuse to start planning your Ecuador vacation? Well, sit back, relax and read on, because we've got plenty ideas for your Ecuador vacation. Ecuador is a country of stunning landscapes, rich history and fascinating culture. For once-in-a-lifetime experiences, it’s got the Galapagos, the Amazon and the Andes. There are active volcanoes, colonial towns, colorful markets and spectacular cross-country rail journeys. Ecuador is a wildlife lover’s dream, a hiker’s paradise and an adrenaline junkie’s playground. Now that we've got your attention, here are 10 great reasons for you to start planning your Ecuador vacation today. 1) Be amazed by the beauty of...
Virgen del Carmen Festival in Paucartambo
Immerse yourself in the true local culture and vibrancy of Peru by attending the Virgen del Carmen Festival in Paucartambo. This unique festival, also known as the Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen, features dances of cultural, historical and religious significance. It is also a sensationally raucous party in the streets of Puacartambo. Costumed and masked characters run riot, local beer flows, brass bands perform and fireworks light up the night. It is a dazzling extravaganza; a true feast for the senses. What to expect The Virgen del Carmen Festival is held on July 15-18 every...
Lake titicaca facts | Ultimate Puno travel guide 2018| Pie Experiences
Make the most of your Lake Titicaca travel experience with our Ultimate Puno - Lake Titicaca Travel Guide. In this post we'll provide Lake Titicaca facts including information about the location, weather and travel options. We will also discuss things to do in Puno and Lake Titicaca, such as where to eat, where to stay and some of the interesting places to visit. There's a lot of great information to cover, so let's get started with the Lake Titicaca facts! Lake Titicaca Facts: Why is Puno special? Because of its location on Lake Titicaca,...
Vegan And Vegetarian Food In Peru: Our Survival Guide
When most people think of vegetarian food in Peru, quality and diversity aren't usually the first things that come to mind. But, seriously though, in 2018 this couldn't be further from the truth. [caption id="attachment_11072" align="alignnone" width="900"] Peruvian fried rice and dumplings from Green Point in Cusco.[/caption] Vegan and vegetarian food in Peru, especially in Cusco, is big business. Not only that but the quality, freshness and high standard is enough to turn the most hardcore of meat lovers. [caption id="attachment_11066" align="alignnone" width="900"] Korma filled calzone with avocado and beetroot salad at Green Point, Cusco.[/caption] More...
10 Good Reasons Why You Should Visit Northwest Argentina
Visit Northwest Argentina With dusty desert towns, tiny vineyards and even its own cowboys, visit Northwest Argentina and you'll feel like you've landed in another era. It is said the American Wild West never died, just moved to Northwest Argentina . You’ll find splashes of colour in this desert region, such as the cliffs of the Quebrada de Humahuaca painted with the colours of the rainbow. In addition, the vivid reds of the Cafayate will transport you to another world. Furthermore, the legacy of the Inca Empire is evident in the music, the food and...
Luxury Peru Train Vacations: Onboard the Belmond Andean Explorer
Taking a journey on the Belmond Andean Explorer is by far one of the most beautiful travel trips you could choose to experience. This luxury train is perfect to show off the incredible colours of Peru, to take in sacred sites such as Lake Titicaca, and to holiday in style. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhwp1trE6p4[/embed] The Belmond Andean Explorer: South America's first sleeper train There are many different options for train travel in Peru, yet there nothing is quite like the luxury of the Belmond Andean Explorer. With spacious cabins, decadent furnishings, a piano bar, library and observation carriages (plus delicious...
Inti Raymi Festival: A Guide to the Inca Festival of the Sun in Cusco
What better time to visit Cusco, the ancient heart of the Inca Empire, than during the Inti Raymi festival? [caption id="attachment_12810" align="alignnone" width="900"] Inti Raymi 2017 at Coricancha, Cusco's Temple of the Sun. Photo by Everywhere Please.[/caption] Inti Raymi festival, the Inca 'festival of the sun', is celebrated during the winter solstice (June 24) and is one of the biggest festivals in South America. Surely it is also the grandest, most colourful celebration of Inca culture that exists in modern times. [caption id="attachment_12825" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Inti Raymi kicks off at Qoricancha. Photo by Everywhere...
Choquequirao Trek – While It’s Still Pristine
Introduction to a Choquequirao Trek There is another way to travel. It involves throwing the guidebook away. Listen to what every tourist is saying, and then ignore it. You see, the professional tourists that regurgitate the guidebooks find a place they like, write about it in said guidebook, sell millions of copies, and the people who read the guidebooks go to the places that the professional tourists write about. So far, so straight forward. But, of course, this upsurge in tourism fundamentally alters the nature of the location. Naturally, one example would be Machu Picchu. And conversely I am...
Uyuni Salt Flats: Your Essential Guide
Everything You Need to Know about the Uyuni Salt Flats. The Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia is such a surreal and unique place that you would be forgiven for wondering whether you'd landed on a different planet. In the dry season, your world is divided into the perfect, dazzling white salt below and the perfect blue sky above. In the rainy season, these two halves combine as the film of water on the salt reflects the sky above and you watch fluffy white clouds scudding across the land. The glorious, bleak beauty of the...
Visit Rainbow Mountain, A Truly Magical Place!
Are you planning to visit Rainbow Mountain? If you go 100km from Cusco in any direction, you are liable to find yourself on or near a mountain. This is because Cusco is situated in the Andes mountain range. There are hundreds of mountains in the Andes mountain range above 4000m. If you lowered that number, it would become thousands - thousands of mountains running through Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia and even Venezuela. But visit Rainbow Mountain and ask yourself: how many of these other mountains are magical mountains painted with rainbows? The answer is...
Illegal Tourism Companies and Scams in Machu Picchu and Cusco
As a concerned traveller to Peru, you are probably asking yourself the question, Are there many scams in Machu Picchu? While a great number of tour companies operate out of Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu, and tourists often fall victim to a variety of scams, there are certain precautions you can take to avoid such occurrences. Just by being aware of the issues, including what scams are out there, you will be better equipped to protect yourself from becoming an unwitting victim. Read on for more details about common scams in Machu Picchu and...
About Amazon Jungle – Tourism In The Amazon Rainforest
Which Is The Best Amazon Jungle Region To Visit In Peru? The Amazon jungle straddles a number of South American countries, and each would entreat you that their portion of the earth's lungs are the finest. Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world and it certainly likes to lay claim to being the Amazon authority in the region. However, the obvious choice is rarely the best choice. Colombia and Ecuador might like to dispute it, but it is Peru that offers the best Amazon jungle experience. The Peruvian Amazon extends along the fringes...
Inca Jungle Trail – The Adventurous Way To Visit Machu Picchu
Welcome to everything you need to know about the exciting, adrenaline-pumping Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu! Explore the fascinating landscapes of the Sacred Valley on the Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu. On this adventure, you will bike, hike, and zipline your way from the high mountains to the green valleys and jungle below. Follow ancient Incan paths, as you discover ruins and the colorful culture that surrounds Machu Picchu. This hike to Machu Picchu is an adventure you won’t soon forget! In this blog post we are going to: Introduce The Inca Jungle...
Machu Picchu Facts: Everything There Is To Know About The Magic Mountain
When visiting Peru, it's likely you will be overloaded with all kinds of Machu Picchu facts. Find out more about this mysterious world heritage site, Machu Picchu, which means 'old peak' in Quechua in this detailed blog post. All you need to know about Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley Located in the Sacred Valley close to Cusco, in this blog we will give you all the Machu Picchu facts you need. We will share with you information about the site itself, as well as the various Machu Picchu tours. In this blog post, find out more about:...
Ecotourism in the Amazon – Learn, Relax, Discover
Ecotourism in the Amazon is thriving and offers lots of possibilities for adventure. Explore the depths of this wild ecosystem while supporting Amazon preservation and the local communities. Observe wildlife and explore the jungle with expert scientists conducting groundbreaking research in the field. Furthermore, take part in excursions that will teach you all about the plants and animals in this immaculate area. These fabulous 'ecotourism in the Amazon' experiences are possible due to our partners, Rainforest Expeditions. Rainforest Expeditions Research Rainforest Expeditions is an ecotourism group dedicated to sustaining the Amazon. Hence the group...
Choco Lovers Unite: A Trip To Cusco’s Chocolate Museum
A trip to Cusco's Chocolate Museum is a delight for any fan of the humble cacao bean. Cusco's Chocolate Museum, ChocoMuseo, is the unofficial home of the cocoa bean. Whether you prefer cocoa in a drink, in chocolate or even in your hair or make-up products, it is astounding how versatile this tiny bean can be. Cusco's Chocolate Museum provides you with an opportunity to unite friends and family. Come together and share your love of all things sweet. This sugary paradise is tucked away on the corner of Plaza Regocijo, just two blocks from Plaza...
A behind the scenes look at Peruvian textile weaving
The people of the Peruvian Andes maintain their traditions in a way that much of the world has failed to. Tremendous changes have come to Peru since Spanish conquest and the ever-present globalization, but you will find some parts of Andean life unchanged. For nearly 10,000 years, communities have been producing Peruvian textiles, and the skill runs deep to the modern day. Just outside of Pisaq in the Amaru village, the carefully woven hats and ornate garments are the daily ware. On our recent community-based tourism excursion to the Sacred Valley to learn about Peruvian...
Pachamanca Experience | A culinary journey
You may have plucked up the courage to try cuy or sink your teeth into an alpaca steak, but if you haven't tried a 'pachamanca experience ' you are missing out. This ancient Inca ritual is one not many tourists know of, and yet we consider it to be one of the best culinary experiences you can have in your life. In Peru, adventurous eaters have the opportunity to enjoy some of the world's most unique dining. You just need to know what is on offer. From the world famous raw fish ceviche to the oriental fusion of lomo...
Mastering Macchu Picchu: The Essential Inca Trail Packing List
If you are serious about mastering the infamous Machu Picchu Inca Trail trek, then undoubtedly your first priority needs to be your Inca Trail packing list. Yes, we know you may spend your whole life building up to see this natural wonder of the world...