Road trip in Peru, 15 April - 1 May 2025

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu

High above the Sacred Valley, an ancient citadel rests on a mountain ridge, a testament to the architectural prowess of a long-gone civilization.

Perched high above the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu is a breathtaking testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the Inca civilization. This ancient citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rests on a mountain ridge and is often shrouded in mist, adding to its mystical allure. Its dry-stone walls, constructed without the use of mortar, display incredible precision, seamlessly fusing massive stone blocks. The site’s layout reflects the Incas’ deep understanding of astronomy and their harmonious integration with the surrounding landscape.

Machu Picchu’s history is as fascinating as its architectural brilliance. Built in the 15th century as an estate for Emperor Pachacuti, it was mysteriously abandoned during the Spanish Conquest. Hidden from the outside world for centuries, it was rediscovered in 1911 by American historian Hiram Bingham, capturing global attention and becoming an iconic symbol of Inca heritage.

The site is divided into two main areas: the agricultural sector and the urban sector. The agricultural sector features terraces and granaries, designed to optimize crop production and prevent soil erosion. The urban sector houses the citadel’s most remarkable structures, including the Temple of the Sun, the Room of the Three Windows, and the Intihuatana—a ceremonial stone believed to function as a solar clock.

Machu Picchu’s natural surroundings enhance its splendor. Nestled on the eastern slopes of the Andes, it overlooks the lush upper Amazon basin, home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including endangered species. The area’s cloud forests and unique microclimates further highlight the site’s ecological and cultural significance.

The mysteries of Machu Picchu continue to intrigue scholars and visitors alike. Its exact purpose, the techniques used to transport and carve its massive stones, and the reasons for its abandonment remain subjects of ongoing research and debate. This air of mystery, combined with its unmatched beauty and historical importance, makes Machu Picchu a must-visit destination for travelers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers.

This bustling metropolis is the capital of a country known for its rich Incan heritage, diverse landscapes, and world-renowned cuisine.

This vibrant district is renowned for its lush parks, world-class restaurants, and bustling nightlife.

The pre-Columbian site is a main attraction in the colonial centre of Lima, offering insight into the region's ancient history.

A small seaside town filled with restaurants serving fresh seafood, it offers a unique coastal experience.

Ballestas Islands

Known as the 'poor man's Galapagos', this destination offers a rich biodiversity that rivals its more famous counterpart.

This enigmatic location, steeped in ancient history, is home to a series of massive geoglyphs etched into the earth's surface.

A blend of history, architecture, nature, and culinary excellence.

A small town nestled at an altitude of 3,650 meters in the Peruvian Andes, it offers a unique high-altitude experience.

A stunning canyon combining natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.

A town of 145,000 inhabitants, it's situated at the western end of Lake Titicaca, at an altitude of 3,860 m..

Situated at an altitude of 3,860 m, Puno is a town of 145,000 inhabitants at the western end of the renowned body of water.

A stunning example of architectural and cultural heritage.

A quaint village nestled in the vast Andean Altiplanos, it offers a unique experience with stays at the River Lodge, located next to the Urubamba River.

Andean Altiplanos

This high-altitude plateau, stretching across several nations, is a breathtaking spectacle of nature's grandeur.

Titicaca Plateau

This high-altitude region, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural history, is a must-visit for any traveler.

This majestic waterway, often referred to as the Sacred River, is a significant part of the ancient Incan Empire.

This ancient city, once the heart of the Inca Empire, is a treasure trove of history and culture.

This breathtaking region, steeped in rich Incan history, is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, terraced farmlands, and traditional Andean villages.

This colonial town is known for its peculiar structure of circular terraces that sink into a 150-meter deep crater.

Moray Agricultural Laboratory

This unique structure consists of circular terraces that descend into a 150-meter deep crater.

This beautiful small town is built on ancient Incan walls, preserving their urban features.

This ancient path, carved by a civilization long past, is a testament to the ingenuity and endurance of its creators.

High above the Sacred Valley, an ancient citadel rests on a mountain ridge, a testament to the architectural prowess of a long-gone civilization.

It's an impressive trail along vertical cliffs of a canyon, offering an opportunity for a hike up to a historical site.

This towering peak, often shrouded in mist, is a prominent feature of the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu.

Puerto Maldonado

This vibrant city, located in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, is a gateway to some of the most pristine rainforests in the world.

It's an Amazonian tributary where one can observe turtles, osprey, and capybara on its banks.

This Amazonian gem is accessible via a 5 km jungle trail.