Peru
 

When you think of Peru, chances are your mind immediately jumps to Machu Picchu, and rightfully so. But this South American gem is so much more than its world-famous Incan ruins. Peru is a country of contrasts: vibrant cities, surreal desert oasis' and ancient wonders hidden in the clouds. Let's check out- the bustling city of Lima, the desert oasis of Huacachina,  Lake Humanatay and Machu Picchu.

 

Lima, Peru’s capital, is a metropolis that hugs the Pacific Ocean. It’s a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new. Stroll through the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you’ll be greeted by colonial-era architecture, grand plazas, and colorful churches. Don’t miss the iconic Plaza Mayor and the breathtaking Basilica Cathedral of Lima.  All though churches and buildings are not really my thing, it's a must visit when you are there.. Lima has a lot of history, but if your a foodie then you are going to be thrilled.  Known as the culinary capital of South America, the city offers a dining scene that will blow your mind. From high-end restaurants like Central and Maido (both ranked among the best in the world) to local cevicherías serving up fresh, zesty ceviche, every bite in Lima is an adventure. Pro tip: Pair your ceviche with a pisco sour—it’s basically the national cocktail.  The drink is fantastic!  My favorite Peruvian dish is Ají de Gallina.  Please try it while you are there!

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Make your way to the Miraflores district, where modern skyscrapers meet cliffside parks overlooking the ocean. Parque del Amor is a must-visit for its stunning views and whimsical mosaics. If you’re feeling adventurous, try paragliding off the cliffs for a bird’s-eye view of the coastline. For a more laid-back vibe, head to the bohemian district of Barranco. It’s bursting with street art, quaint cafes, and a lively nightlife scene. I stayed in a sweet Airbnb in Barranco and had easy access to everything mentioned.  The walkway along the sea is breathtaking.  Sunset is a must!!!

Best Places To Eat

1. Central Restaurante
   Central is celebrated for its innovative approach to Peruvian cuisine, integrating indigenous ingredients from diverse ecosystems. In 2023, it earned the No. 1 spot on the World's 50 Best Restaurants ranking.

2. Mérito
   A cozy two-floor establishment with an open kitchen, Mérito offers a fusion of Venezuelan and Peruvian flavors. All the dishes give Peruvian ingredients a new identity, you will not be dissappointed.

3. Siete
   Located on a charming street in Barranco, Siete.  The menu features creative modern Mediterranean-influenced dishes with a touch of Asia, try the  catch-of-the-day tiradito with ginger and razor clams.  Yum!

4. Isolina Taberna Peruana
   A beloved spot for traditional Peruvian comfort food, Isolina serves hearty dishes in a rustic setting. It's known for its generous portions and classic flavors, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.  My favorite!

5. Cala Restaurante
   Situated with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Cala offers a refined seafood dining experience. The restaurant combines fresh ingredients with elegant presentation, providing a memorable meal by the sea.

 

These establishments showcase the rich culinary landscape of Barranco, that I heard so much about.  If you would like to take in more about the food in Lima, jump into a cooking class and learn all about Peruvian traditions.  And yes potatoes!  Did you know that Peru grows over 4,000 varieties of potatoes!  Fun fact :)

 

Now Imagine a tiny oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes as far as the eye can see. Huacachina, a surreal little village that looks like it was plucked straight out of a postcard and just a few hours south of Lima.  This tour is one of my TOP Five! Huacachina is a haven for thrill-seekers and anyone looking to experience something completely unique.  It's like a ski resort with sand instead of snow!

The main attraction here is dune bashing. Buckle up and hold on tight as your sand buggy tears across the dunes at breakneck speeds. It’s like a roller coaster, but with better views. Our buggy of nine laughed until out stomachs hurt!  If you’re feeling brave, give sand boarding a try. Picture snowboarding, but on golden dunes instead of snow. Warning: I had sand in places I didn’t know existed, but it was worth it. Ha! Ha! Keep in mind...The beautiful people of Huacachina sell scarves to cover your mouth and nose for a couple of bucks.  BUY ONE!

After an adrenaline-filled day, relax by the oasis lagoon, enjoy a cold beer, and watch the sun set over the desert. The hues of orange and pink reflecting off the sand dunes are nothing short of magical.  Chasing the sunset was so much fun!

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No trip to Peru is complete without visiting Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan citadel perched high in the Andes Mountains. Getting there is half the adventure. You can take a scenic train ride from Cusco, the cutest town on earth or if you’re up for a challenge, hike the iconic Inca Trail. Either way, the journey will leave you speechless.

When you first catch sight of Machu Picchu, it’s like stepping into another world. The perfectly preserved stone terraces, temples, and pathways are surrounded by misty peaks, making it feel both otherworldly and sacred. Take your time exploring the Sun Gate, the Temple of the Sun, and the Intihuatana Stone—each structure tells a story of the Incan civilization’s ingenuity and connection to nature.

TIP: Get there early to beat the crowds and catch the sunrise. Watching the first rays of light hit the ruins is a spiritual experience you won’t forget.  If you want to book a worry free trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu consider using Get Your Guide

They handled the entire tour from pick up at my AirBnB in Cusco, taxi to the train to and from Aguas Caliente, my accommodations in Aguas Caliente for one night as well as the tour to Machu Picchu, the train ride back to Cusco and a taxi from the train back to my AirBnb.  Sounds a bit confusing?  I felt the same and that's why I chose Get Your Guide to organize it for me.

 

Lake Humantay, located in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco, is a breathtaking glacial lake renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters, I mean turquoise!  It's surrounded by snow-capped peaks that are slowly melting into a lake that will soon be non- existent.  Nestled at an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,800 feet), it’s a popular day trip for adventurers hiking the Salkantay Trek. The lake’s stunning beauty, framed by dramatic mountain scenery, offers a serene and spiritual experience. Visitors can reach it via a pretty challenging hike that will take your breath away, literally!  But don't let that stop you, push yourself and if it's too much you can always jump on a horse, they'll be waiting for you.

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From the vibrant streets and great food of Lima to the golden dunes of Huacachina and everything in between, this country offers an adventure for every kind of traveler.  And don't listen to anyone about the weather.  If you have an opportunity to visit Peru, take it, whatever time of year.I went in January(rainy season) and the weather couldn't have been better!