My visit to Peru was absolutely magnificent. As a solo female traveler, I had always hesitated to venture to South America, having heard so many cautionary tales. But when a close friend braved the journey, returned with glowing stories, and urged me to go, I decided to take the leap. It turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life—it was more than worth the chance.
Peru became the first stop on my five-country South American adventure. It was the perfect choice because visiting Machu Picchu had been on my bucket list since I first caught the travel bug. With that dream firmly in mind, my journey began.
Day 1 & 2: Lima
I arrived in Lima, the bustling capital of Peru, and checked into a cozy spot in Miraflores, a lively district along the coast. Known for its safety, trendy cafes, and stunning ocean views, Miraflores was the ideal starting point for my exploration. I spent the rest of day one wandering through the neighborhood, with a standout moment being my visit to Parque del Amor (Love Park). The mosaic benches and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean were absolutely breathtaking. Later, I ventured into Barranco, a bohemian district brimming with colorful murals, quirky cafes, and art galleries. I strolled its charming streets, pausing to admire the vibrant street art, and wandered along the scenic Malecón Cisneros, a clifftop path offering stunning views. My day ended with a visit to Larcomar, a modern shopping center carved into the cliffs, where I watched a serene sunset over the ocean.
On day two, I delved into Lima’s rich history with a visit to the Historic Center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights included the ornate Basílica and Convent of San Francisco, with its eerie catacombs, the grand Lima Cathedral, and the picturesque Lima Main Square, surrounded by stunning colonial architecture. I explored Jirón Carabaya, passed by Ramon Castilla Square and St. Martin Square, and admired the vibrant Arco Chino de Lima, a tribute to the city’s Chinese heritage.
Lima truly surprised me with its seamless blend of history, culture, and modernity, providing the perfect introduction to my unforgettable journey through Peru.
Day 3 & 4: Paracas and Huacachina
I started my morning early, heading south to Paracas, a coastal gem surrounded by desert and ocean. My first stop was the Paracas National Reserve, a surreal mix of ochre sand dunes, turquoise waters, and jagged cliffs. The views were stunning, and I loved spotting flamingos and seabirds along the shoreline. Afterward, I explored the small town of Paracas, where I enjoyed a leisurely lunch of freshly caught ceviche—an absolute must in this part of Peru. Later, I embarked on a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, often called the "poor man's Galapagos." As we glided through the sea, we were greeted by playful sea lions lounging on the rocks, adorable Humboldt penguins waddling about, and thousands of seabirds soaring overhead. The islands were breathtaking, a true haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
That evening, I traveled to Huacachina, an oasis town nestled in a valley of towering sand dunes. I stayed at the famous Wild Rover Hostel, known for its lively atmosphere, where I joined a night of drinks, music, and meeting fellow travelers.
The next morning, I visited nearby vineyards for a Pisco wine-tasting tour, learning about the production process and sampling Peru’s beloved national spirit. Later, I returned to the sand dunes for a thrilling dune buggy adventure, zipping up and down the steep slopes. The excitement didn’t stop there—I strapped on a sandboard and slid down the dunes, laughing the whole way. As the day wound down, I perched atop the dunes to watch the sun sink below the golden horizon—a magical, unforgettable moment.
Day 5: Nazca Lines and Arequipa
On the way to Arequipa, I stopped at the Mirador de las Líneas de Nazca, a viewing platform offering a glimpse of the ancient Nazca geoglyphs. Though seeing these massive, enigmatic drawings from the ground can’t compare to an aerial view, the experience was fascinating. The mystery surrounding their creation and purpose only added to their allure.
Afterward, I continued to Arequipa, Peru’s stunning "White City." Surrounded by volcanoes and built from white volcanic stone, the city has a charm that feels both historical and modern. I spent the evening exploring the vibrant streets, admiring colonial architecture, and enjoying the city’s lively atmosphere.
Day 6: Lake Titicaca
The next day, I ventured to the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. I took a boat to the Uros Floating Islands, where I met the indigenous Uros people. The islands, constructed entirely of totora reeds, were fascinating to explore, and the locals warmly welcomed us, sharing their traditions and way of life.
From there, I visited Taquile Island, a peaceful and picturesque spot renowned for its intricate handwoven textiles. The island’s panoramic views of the shimmering blue lake and distant Bolivian mountains were spectacular. Walking through the island’s quiet pathways and learning about the locals’ unique traditions was a highlight of the day.
Day 7 & 8: Cusco and Its Wonders
My final days in Peru were spent immersing myself in the captivating city of Cusco. Staying at a hotel near the Plaza de Armas made it easy to explore, and every step felt like a journey through time. As I wandered the cobblestone streets, I found myself surrounded by the stories of two worlds. The intricate wooden balconies of Spanish colonial buildings stood in striking contrast to the perfectly preserved Inca stone walls, like those on Hatun Rumiyoc Street where the famous 12-angled stone resides. The city’s duality was mesmerizing—churches and mansions rising from ancient Inca foundations, a testament to centuries of cultural fusion.
The Plaza de Armas, Cusco’s vibrant heart, became my favorite place to soak in the city’s lively atmosphere. Surrounded by arcaded walkways, bustling cafes, and two grand churches—the Cusco Cathedral and the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús—it was a constant hub of activity. I spent hours sipping coca tea on a bench, watching locals and tourists blend together, all while being enveloped in the warmth of the plaza.
One of the highlights of my visit was the Qorikancha Temple (Temple of the Sun), a symbol of Cusco’s layered history. Once the wealthiest temple in the Inca Empire, its golden walls were stripped by the Spanish, who built the Santo Domingo Church atop the ruins. Inside, I was struck by the stunning blend of Inca stonework and colonial architecture—an awe-inspiring reminder of the city’s past.
Another unforgettable experience was exploring the San Pedro Market, a sensory overload in the best possible way. From vibrant produce and exotic fruits to handmade alpaca textiles and local street food, the market was a feast for the senses. I indulged in chicha morada, a refreshing purple corn drink, and freshly baked empanadas, savoring the local flavors.
The artistic heart of Cusco lies in the San Blas neighborhood, perched on a hill above the city. This charming artisan district, with its narrow streets, small galleries, and boutique shops, became one of my favorite places to explore. The steep climb was rewarded with stunning views of Cusco and a visit to the quaint San Blas Church, with its beautifully carved wooden pulpit. Cusco's cultural richness extended beyond its historical landmarks. I stumbled upon traditional Andean music, vibrant parades, and spontaneous festivals, all adding to the city's enchanting energy. Cusco felt like a place alive with history, where the old and the new coexist in harmony.
Day 9: Machu Picchu
The highlight of my journey was, without a doubt, visiting the iconic Machu Picchu. The scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, surrounded by lush valleys and towering peaks, set the tone for the adventure ahead. I opted for a hike to the citadel, adding to the sense of excitement and anticipation. Standing amidst the ancient ruins, with the Andes towering in the background, was a moment of pure awe. The intricate stonework, the vastness of the terraces, and the mystical aura of the site left me speechless. It surpassed all expectations and was, without a doubt, one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life.
Day 10: Rainbow Mountain
The trek to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) was one of the most physically demanding yet rewarding parts of my trip. The high-altitude hike pushed my limits, but the views along the way made every step worth it. As I neared the summit, I was mesmerized by the vibrant mineral stripes of the mountain—reds, oranges, turquoises, and golds stretching across the landscape in a surreal display. Reaching the top filled me with a sense of accomplishment, and the natural beauty of the mountain was unlike anything I’d ever seen.
Day 11: Humantay Lake and Maras Salt Mines
My final day in the Sacred Valley began with a trek to Humantay Lake, a serene glacial lake tucked high in the mountains. The vibrant turquoise water, framed by snow-capped peaks, was a sight to behold. The challenging hike up was rewarded with views that seemed almost otherworldly, the lake’s color contrasting beautifully with the rugged landscape around it.
In the afternoon, I visited the Maras Salt Mines, an ancient system of salt terraces still in use today. The sight of thousands of gleaming salt pools, reflecting the sun in varying shades of white and pink, was mesmerizing. Watching the locals harvest salt using traditional methods gave me a deeper appreciation for the region’s agricultural heritage, and the juxtaposition of natural beauty and human ingenuity made it one of the highlights of my journey.
Day 12: My departure
Cusco’s vibrant energy, paired with the incredible nearby destinations, provided the perfect ending to my Peruvian adventure. From its rich history to its stunning landscapes, Peru exceeded every expectation. It was hard to say goodbye, but I left with memories I’ll cherish forever, knowing that the spirit of Cusco and the Sacred Valley will always remain with me.
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