A trip to Machu Picchu is sure to amaze. With its immense history and beautiful landscapes, it is no wonder that nearly half a million people visit the site every year. Travelers from all over the world set out on Machu Picchu tours and capture the citadel on film and video, ensuring that their memories will last a lifetime. Make your Machu Picchu memories unique by checking out some of these unique ways our clients and staff have documented their time at Machu Picchu.

These clients ate their Wheaties before their Machu Picchu tour – they are holding it up with one hand!

Aleks, our Destinations Manager, enjoys Peru’s famous Inca Kola from above the ruins.

How high can you jump for your Machu Picchu picture?

Flashback! Our expert travel advisor Bianca first visited Machu Picchu in 1989! She has since been back an astounding 18 times and has taken some amazing photos on each of her visits.

Though they didn’t have any crazy photo poses, the clouds in this Machu Picchu picture make it absolutely beautiful and unique!

Planning ahead, this family made shirts to create this one-of-a-kind Machu Picchu picture!

Though it is hard to top the natural beauty of Machu Picchu, you can complement it by creating a one-of-a-kind photo, a great reminder of your amazing Peru vacation. Start planning your trip to Machu Picchu today by contacting one of our expert travel advisors.

Which Machu Picchu pose is your favorite? Let us know by leaving a comment!

Chambi’s photography is deeply anthropological. This photograph of an Andean worker in Machu Picchu was published by Hiram Bingham in 1922. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Martin Chambi was born in 1891 in a small village near Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca to a Quechua-speaking family. His father was a laborer for a mining company, and when he died the young Chambi relocated to Arequipa, where he became an apprentice and learned his trade. Given his humble origins, Chambi’s subsequent economic prosperity was rather extraordinary for the times.

Once trained, Chambi began his career in Cusco in 1923 and he established a studio on Calle Marquez near the Plaza de Armas. He quickly became the favored photographer among members of Cusco’s high society, who commissioned him to do portraits and to photograph weddings, baptisms, and other social events.

Chambi’s true passion, however, was Andean culture – indigenous people, their culture and enduring customs, and the landscapes that they inhabited. At a time when indios were regarded as dirty, poor, and inferior, Chambi’s pictures captured the dignity of his subject and the elegance of traditions retained despite centuries of oppression.

In addition to taking studio portraits of indigenous subjects, Chambi traveled into the Sacred Valley, using horses to cart around his heavy camera equipment, which included a 44 lb (20 kg) tripod. His daughter Julia, once old enough, accompanied him on some of these trips through the countryside, which lasted 15 to 30 days at a time, and she later became a photographer as well.

As the official Chambi website notes, “Surely without intending it, Chambi became in effect the symbolic photographer of his race, transforming the telluric voice of Andean man, his millenary melancholy, his eternal neglect, his quintessentially Peruvian, human, Vallejo-like pain into the truly universal.” (http://martinchambi.org)

Today, the Chambi family is working to create an institute in Cusco to preserve the vast collection of photographs, glass plates, and equipment that Chambi bequeathed to his descendants. If you are in the process of planning your Peru vacation, or already in Peru and wondering what to do in Cusco or Arequipa, you can visit ongoing exhibitions of Chambi’s work. In Arequipa, the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo (MAC) is wrapping up an exhibit that features portraits of Arequipeño high society and also photographs of the “White City” and surrounding landscapes. Meanwhile, in Cusco, travelers have until November to see the Chambi exhibit at the former palace of the Inca Tupac Yupanqui located on Calle Maruri.

It is a truly remarkable experience to see these photographs, which include street scenes, impressively scenic landscapes, Inca archaeological sites, and images of people, wealthy and poor. They recall a past that is strangely familiar – when we travel through these places we recognize the passage of time, but we are also able to see some of these same scenes in Peru today.

The cloistered community grew to such a size that it became a walled city within the city and covered approximately 65,616 ft² (20,000 m²) of land, including gardens, streets, alleys, stairways, a central square, and a church.  Nuns comprised only about a third of the convent’s population; also residing within the citadel were wealthy widows who sought to isolate themselves from society, small children that were to be educated by the nuns, and numerous servants, usually poor indigenous women, who cleaned, cooked, and attended the nuns.

A street inside the walls of Santa Catalina Monastery, offering a glimpse into the past of this richly historical city.

In 2000, Arequipa’s historic center (including Santa Catalina) was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beautiful architectural monuments, crafted from Spanish designs by creole and indigenous masons. Many of the city’s buildings, including houses, churches, and government buildings were constructed of sillar, a volcanic stone that is soft and light and whose pearl color has given Arequipa is other name: “The White City.”

Arequipa’s Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas is a typical example of the style of architecture known as mestizo barroco. Photo Credit: Matthew Barker, Latin America For Less.

Apart from its historic treasures, Arequipa features a distinctive geography that creates exciting options for adventure travelers. The nearby El Misti Volcano rises to 19,101 feet (5,822 meters) above sea level and forms a looming presence that has understandably marked the local psyche. In the celebrated phrasing of author Jorge Polar Vargas and in reference to the fiery temperament of Arequipeños, “No se nace en vano al pie de un volcán;” roughly translated: “Not for nothing is one born at the foot of a volcano.” Today, travelers interested in climbing the volcano and camping along its steep sandy slopes can take one of two routes, Pastores or Aguada Blanca.

El Misti Volcano is a looming presence in the Arequipa skyline. Photo Credit: Matthew Barker, Latin America For Less.

Arequipa is also the access point for visits to Colca Canyon, one of Peru’s top destinations located approximately 100 miles (160 km) northeast of the city. This canyon drops down to 13,650 feet (4,160 meters) – twice as deep as the Grand Canyon.

Travelers come here to see the agricultural terraces and ancient villages such as Chivay that have been inhabited since pre-Inca times, to embark on single or multi-day treks through the canyon, and to admire magnificent Andean condors as they glide gracefully on warm air currents. Another option for trekking is Cotahuasi Canyon, the deepest canyon in the world reaching a maximum depth of 3535 meters, 335 more than Colca Canyon.

A condor gliding on a thermal current in the Colca Canyon.

To learn more about travel to Arequipa, visit the Peru For Less website or contact one of our expert travel advisors.

In 2012, Peruvian park agencies will focus on developing Manu National Park as a destination for ecotourism.

What is ecotourism?

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that places emphasis on responsible and sustainable travel to natural areas. Among its key objectives, the ecotourism ethos seeks to minimize human impact, maximize conservation, and when applicable to increase the direct and indirect socio-economic benefits to the human populations that inhabit the affected environments. This philosophy is particularly important in Manu National Park, especially as it continues to grow and develop as a tourist destination.

Manu National Park

Located where the Andes and the Amazon River meet in southwestern Peru, Manu National Park comprises 1.5 million hectares and is the country’s largest protected area. In 1977, Manu was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, and in 1987, a World Heritage Site. One unique trait of Manu is the range of elevations or altitudes within the reserve. From the river lowlands located at 500 feet (150 meters) above sea level, the mountainous rainforest areas and puna (grasslands) rise up to 13,800 feet (4,200 meters) in some places. This characteristic creates distinct ecological zones and microclimates, resulting in the astounding natural bounty of flora and fauna in Manu.

This tiny critter is one of 140 species of amphibians that populate Manu National Reserve.

Efforts to catalogue Manu’s diversity of species have turned up mind-blowing numbers: over 15,000 species of plants have been identified, including 250 varieties of trees. The number of bird species is around 1,000, more than the total number in the U.S. and Canada combined.  Among the 200 species of mammals are 14 types of monkeys and rare species like the giant otter and the giant armadillo. Manu is thus the perfect location from which to appreciate Peru’s animal diversity.

Crikey, a caiman! With so many species of plant and animal life in Manu, you never know what you’re likely to see if you keep your eyes open.

These exceptional attributes have made Manu an alluring site for researchers and nature travelers alike. As international attention continues to increase in the coming years, organized efforts to protect and responsibly develop Manu are of obvious importance, and the recent meeting of officials and tour operators was an important first step.

Currently, primary access to Manu is through Cusco, whether by air or ground, making it a fantastically exotic destination to add to your Machu Picchu travel packages. Tours of Manu feature a visit to the famous Cloud Forest, and can be customized to include trips to the clay lick where parrots and macaws congregate as well as jungle hikes. See our Amazon tour page, read our blog on Amazon destinations, or speak with one of our expert travel advisors for more details.

Day 1: Arrive to Peru & Fly to Cusco

Machu Picchu may seem like a far away, unreachable destination, but on the contrary, it’s very accessible. Even if you don’t have much time, you can easily organize your trip and check it off your travel list for 2012 in just a weekend! International flights arrive in the airport in Lima, the hectic and vibrant capital of Peru. From there, you can catch a connecting flight to Cusco. The flight is only a little over 1 hour to reach the magnificent former capital of the Inca Empire where you can spend the night and relax.

Day 2: Visit Cusco

In Cusco, you’ll revel in the myriad luxury hotels, delicious restaurants, and most of all, the impressive architecture. From the grandiose Cathedral and tall, resplendent church of La Compania de Jesus on the main square, to the marvelous Inca stonework of the Korikancha temple and 12 Stone Wall, Cusco is one of the highlights of any Peru vacation. It is best to spend at least one day in Cusco to get acclimatized to the altitude and visit its many wonders before you start on your Machu Picchu travel adventure.

Day 3: Machu Picchu & Overnight in the Sacred Valley

Rise early and catch the train to Machu Picchu for one of the most unforgettable travel experiences of your life! You can take the train around 5 a.m. in Cusco and reach Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu, in about 4.5 hours. From here, Machu Picchu is only a quick 20-minute bus ride away. The train and bus ride themselves make for an incredible journey through the beautiful highlands of Peru.

You’ll arrive in the morning at the ruins and have the entire day to explore the site. If you wish to learn more about the history of this majestic fortress and its former inhabitants, it’s best to hire a guide who will provide you with all details and insights you can ask for because there are no informational signs on display among the ruins. Tours generally last around 2 hours, leaving you time afterwards to explore the ruins on your own. Don’t forget to hike up to the Sun Gate, the highest point of the archeological site, for the most beautiful views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andean range.

Once you’ve had your fill of the ruins, just hop on a bus down to Aguas Calientes and catch a train back. For a full Machu Picchu holiday experience, stop in Ollantaytambo and spend the night in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, once the mighty empire’s agricultural breadbasket. You can also visit the impressive Inca fortress that still sits in this small village and relax in the beautiful Andean countryside before returning to Cusco.

Day 4: Return to Cusco & Fly to Lima

In the morning, you can take the train to Cusco and fly back to Lima to catch you flight back home. If you have some time to spare, make sure to hop into town and take a look at Lima’s modern Miraflores district for some shopping, or the historic district to admire the colonial architecture. International flights often depart at night so you may even have time to try some of the delicious restaurants in town. We recommend Astrid y Gaston for a full Peruvian gastronomic experience, or the restaurant at the Huaca Pucllana ruins.

Read more about how to get to Machu Picchu or contact one of our travel advisors to start planning your trip today!

There are several ways to travel from Puno and the magnificent Lake Titicaca region to the ancient city of Cusco, former seat of the glorious Inca Empire. Although not the shortest or cheapest travel option, the train is without a doubt the most wonderful.

PeruRail, the local train company, operates the only trains between these two major Peru travel destinations. The 10-hour ride through the majestic Andean range and spectacular green landscape that characterize Peru is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The journey started early in the morning so we were required to be at the station at 7:30 a.m. From there we boarded the most beautiful train I had ever seen, called the Andean Explorer. The renovated wagons were formerly part of the world-famous Orient Express train company and they still retain their classic, elegant charm with wooden interiors, dim lights, and cozy chairs. We were seated by a welcoming staff, and as the train departed for its long journey, we were offered a hot beverage and breakfast treat to start the day.

10 hours may seem like a long time but they were gone in the blink of an eye. We were kept entertained during the entire trip from Puno to Cusco, first with a colorful traditional music show in the bar wagon. Most of the passengers, and me alike, were eager to admire the stunning landscape through the observation car, with its large windows and opened back. The train travels at a leisurely pace which allowed us to admire the scenery. I felt like I was being transported back to the 19^th century in the heart of the American Midwest during the Gold Rush.

Around noon, we were asked to seat again and enjoyed a delicious several course gastronomic meal. From starters to dessert, all dishes were absolutely fantastic, freshly prepared and inspired by traditional Peruvian cuisine. After a quick nap and time gazing in awe through the windows, the bar opened and we learned how to make the notorious national drink of Peru, the Pisco sour.

After some more music and even a glamorous fashion show, the train made a quick halt in a local handicrafts market in the middle on the countryside, surrounded by mountain and green fields. The market itself is a bit touristy, right on the train tracks, but it’s also the sole means of survival for the local population so everyone made a point to buy a little something. They had beautifully woven textiles, hats, and alpaca sweaters, as well as hand-made jewelry and other handicrafts.

After hopping back on the train, we tranquilly continued our journey toward Cusco, enjoying tea time and a small snack around 4 p.m. We made it to Cusco around 6 p.m., right in time to enjoy a relaxing evening in the city. This Peru vacation experience was one of the most unforgettable, and definitely worth the splurge!

The train travels every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from April to October; and every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday from November to March. Travelers can depart either from Cusco or Puno.

I recently had the chance to visit the Peruvian highlands for the first time, and the experience was richer than I ever imagined. After a breathtaking 12-hour train ride from Lima to Huancayo, the cultural and geographical heart of Peru more than 10,730 feet above sea level, my friends and I took a few days to explore the Andean countryside and enjoy its rural charms.

The Andean highlands of Peru provide some of the most stunning views and authentic cultural experiences in the country.

Beyond the incredibly friendly people and spectacular green and golden landscape of the Mantaro Valley, we also got to indulge in the most iconic Peruvian foods, directly from the origins of their source. As well, learning about the Andean handicrafts gave a fascinating insight into the old traditions that have been passed on generation upon generation. So whether you find yourself in the Andes in the northern city of Chachapoyas, Huancayo in the center, or Cusco in the south on your way to an Inca Trail hike or Machu Picchu holiday, be sure to experience some of these outstanding cuisines and arts.

Food

Noodle and grain-based soups, both vegetarian and meat options, are extremely popular starters throughout Peru.

Hot soups – In many areas, clean and fresh water is difficult to come by and the days and nights can get seriously chilly depending on the season. Therefore, the locals really enjoy hot soups as part of their meals because the water must first be boiled, and they make for warm, cozy dishes. Whether you are coming in from a tiring day of trekking in the mountains or exploring the streets on a Cusco tour, a bowl of hot soup is sure to relax your entire being, not to mention a delicious starter with which to whet your appetite.

Papas a la huancaina – Peru is known for its literally thousands of varieties of potato types. Of the many potato dishes, one of the most popular in the country is papas a la huancaina which originated from the cold Andean regions. Potatoes are first boiled, then either served whole or in slices depending on their size. The defining characteristic is the savory, mild, bright yellow cheese sauce that is poured over them. The taste of the first bite took me back a bit, but soon I devoured the entire appetizer plate and wished for more!

Fresh river trout is an indulgence many love to enjoy away from the coast.

Trout – Although the Peruvian coast is known for its diverse seafood dishes, the internal highlands have varieties to call their own as well. The crisp mountain rivers provide fresh fish for the local populations. A particularly popular  dish is trout, which should not be missed on any  trip to Peru and the Andes. We didn’t get to stop by the famous trout farm in Ingenio just outside of the town of Concepción, but the trout ceviche (raw seafood “cooked” by being marinated in lime juice and spices, largely considered the national dish of Peru) I had from a street vendor in the Cochas Chico village was definitely tasty.

Cuy – One of the most unique foods to be tried on a Peru vacation and particularly the Sierra is cuy, which means guinea pig. The little creatures sell for about $10 per plate—a bit more than a typical meal otherwise, but the taste is worth trying at least once. It really does remind of chicken, but with more tiny bones. A cuy body filet is prepared grilled and usually accompanied by white rice and/or a side salad.

Handicrafts

The artisanal work that comes out of central Peru is some of the most skillful to be found.

Gourds – The village of Cochas Chico just a short 15 minutes outside of Huancayo is known for its skilled gourd carving arts. Many of the gourds are grown and dried in the nearby area, but others are imported from other areas of Peru, each with their own distinctive shapes and sizes. It was amazing to watch elderly artisans (including a man of 70 years!) flawlessly sketch on the dry mate burliados, and with such incredible detail! Scenes are usually of the pastoral and agricultural lifestyle and includes celestial motifs, farm animals, and land workers.

Silver – San Jeronimo is a tiny village, but its vibrant silver works speak for themselves. From delicate jewelries to decorative knick knacks, the crafts definitely tempted my wallet. If you first need some time to think about your purchase, you can also later buy at the artisanal markets back in in Huancayo.

Wool weavings – Small and tranquil little Chupaca has a weekly Saturday market that brings plenty of colorful characters and handiwork crafts from around the area. I managed to snag a good deal on a white woven cap and 3 pairs of thick, handmade wool socks for incredibly low prices. They should keep me sufficiently warm on the rest of my Peru travels!

Far from our Lima office, we decided to put their travel know how to the test. Relying solely on their Peruvian travel expertise (no guide books allowed), they enjoyed a fantastic few days visiting Arequipa, testing hotels, regional cuisine, beverages, and taking in the beautiful scenery (not a bad assignment!). They returned from their excursion with wonderful memories and were eager to share their newest firsthand travel experiences and knowledge with all of our customers and anyone thinking about traveling to Peru.  Here are some of their top picks. Enjoy!

Arequipa

MUST SEES:

• The Juanita Mummy Museum
  

“When I first heard the story about Juanita, a young girl who was sacrificed to the gods in the 1400s and then was discovered on the Ampato Mountain in 1995, I was truly fascinated. Unfortunately, the Ice Maiden, as she is commonly referred to, is only on display from May to December. There is so much else to see in the museum that it was worth the visit, but I hope I will get to see the famous Juanita mummy next time I visit Arequipa!” -Jennie, Travel Advisor

• The Santa Catalina Convent

This interesting convent is so big that it’s known as “a city within a city”. It certainly felt like it! There are so many sections in this convent that you could wander around for the whole day seeing how the famous “wealthy” nuns of this monastery lived in the 16^th century. -Jennie, Travel Advisor

• Andean Camelids

Distant cousins of camels and dromedaries, Andean Camelids have been (and still are) the main source of food and clothing in the Andes. You’ll witness countless herds of these beautiful animals while in the region.

One familiar species, the alpacas, are often used for their meat as it’s delicious and healthy (an extraordinary combination!). The majority, however, are bred for their wool which is considered one of the best in the world due to its light, warm and hypoallergenic qualities.  -Miguel, Tour Operator

• Local Volcanoes

“Misti is our protector, he watches over the White City,” our guide whispered as we all tilted our heads back to gaze at the massive snow capped volcano looming over us. El Misti is an active volcano that sits a mere 17 km away from Arequipa. In fact, Arequipa is surrounded by not one, but three volcanoes:  Picchu Picchu, Chachani, and El Misti. Adventurous spirits with more than a little courage can climb to the top of the volcanoes for amazing views and rich plant and animal life. Unlike most of us, Arequipeños do not fear their volcanoes. El Misti still continues to be seen as Arequipa’s protector and provider. -Spencer, Travel Advisor

WHAT TO TASTE:

• Colca Sour, Alpaca, and Cheese Ice Cream

Arequipa has many specialties, but my three favorites were the colca sours (pisco sours with a colca twist, made with an Andean cactus fruit called “Sancayo”), alpaca meat, and cheese ice cream. The cheese ice cream, which isn’t actually made of cheese, (thank goodness!) got its name for looking like cheese. This is something you should not miss whilst in Arequipa. -Jennie, Travel Advisor

Colca Canyon

MUST SEES:

• Andenes

From Arequipa to Colca Canyon, it’s about a four hour bus ride, passing by numerous high mountains. On the way to the canyon, while riding along the valley, we enjoyed looking at the many Incas terraces.  These terraces also called “Andenes,” were built to farm a variety of crops including potatoes, grains, and corn.  It is believed that at least 80% of these terraces were built by ancient local communities such as the Ollaguas and Cabanas over 1000 years ago.-Silvana, Travel Advisor

• Cruz del Condor

Condors can weigh up to 14 kilos and be over three meters long.  Cruz del Condor is the best spot from where we could marvel at these large birds. While there, we lost track of time searching out the condors. -Silvana, Travel Advisor

• La Calera Hot Springs

Located in the Colca Valley between Arequipa and Colca Canyon, you can soak in La Calera Hot Springs while taking in the mountain scenery around you. Definitely a must see and a great way to unwind! -Jennie, Travel Advisor

WHAT TO TASTE:

• A sample menu of region specialities

By Carina Wetzlhuetter, Operator

Starters:

Rocoto Relleno: Stuffed rocoto peppers with a very tasty and spicy sauce.

Ocopa : A special sauce that has its origins in Arequipa and consists of yellow chili pepper, fresh cheese, peanuts, and black mint. Accompanied with potatoes.

Entrees:

Cuy : Yes it’s guinea pig! A very popular dish all around Peru, and common in Arequipa. Don’t worry,  if desired you can order it without the head!

Alpaca: The deeper you go into Colca Canyon, the better the Alpaca – a soft Alpaca steak, made from the traditional recipe of the great-grandfathers of the local inhabitants of the valley. This meat will give you the ultimate Peruvian cuisine experience.

Desert:

Queso helado: Cheese ice cream.  This may not sound very tempting, but I can promise that it does not contain any kind of cheese. This is a very typical Arequipenean ice cream with a soft flavour of cocoa as well as cinnamon.

All members of our staff are not only considered experts in their field, but are also driven by a common passion for travel and an enthusiasm for adventure. They most certainly love sharing their experiences and helping others to create similar magical memories.  Contact us and we’ll help you plan your next dream vacation in Peru.