PERU
In late September of 2022, we spent two weeks traveling through Peru, beginning high in the Andes in Cusco before venturing deep into the Amazon rainforest and eventually trekking through the mountains to Machu Picchu along the Salkantay Trail. It was the kind of trip that felt massive in every sense. Bigger mountains, denser jungles, longer hiking days, richer history, and more contrast than I could have imagined before arriving.
The journey began in Cusco, where we spent several days acclimating to the altitude, wandering through the winding streets of San Blas, exploring local cafés, markets, and historic sites while preparing for the adventures ahead. From there, we traveled into Manu National Park, spending several days in the cloud forest and Amazon Basin hiking jungle trails, exploring lakes by boat, searching for wildlife, and sleeping surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest.
After returning to Cusco, we began the four day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, one of the most rewarding and physically demanding experiences I’ve ever done. We hiked through alpine valleys beneath snowcapped peaks, crossed mountain passes over 15,000 feet, watched the landscape transform from rugged Andes into lush jungle, and spent nights in everything from glass sky camps beneath the stars to remote mountain huts tucked into the cloud forest.
The trip ended with sunrise at Machu Picchu before heading to Lima for a final few days filled with incredible food, coastal views, and a completely different side of Peru’s culture and energy.
Peru challenged me physically, inspired me creatively, and constantly reminded me how diverse and awe inspiring one country can be. From glacier lakes and mountain passes to dense rainforest and ancient Incan history, this trip became one of the most immersive travel experiences I’ve ever had.
Salkantay Trek
Distance: roughly 8 to 10 miles
Elevation Gain: approximately 2,800 to 3,500 feet
Altitude: roughly 12,800 to 15,100 feet (3,900 to 4,600 meters)
Main Ecosystem: alpine mountains and glacial terrain
Notes
The trek began before sunrise with an early drive from Cusco into the Andes toward Soraypampa. After arriving at the Sky Domes and dropping our bags, we continued hiking up to the stunning turquoise waters of Humantay Lake beneath towering snow covered peaks.
That night we stayed in glass Sky Domes, geodesic dome accommodations tucked high in the mountains with panoramic views of the surrounding Andes. Sleeping under the stars after the first day on trail was one of the most surreal parts of the trek.
Distance: roughly 13 to 14 miles
Elevation Gain: approximately 2,500 feet
Altitude: up to 15,255 feet (4,650 meters)
Main Ecosystem: alpine terrain transitioning into cloud forest
Notes
Day two was the most physically demanding day of the trek as we climbed to Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the route. The altitude made every step feel earned, but the surrounding snow covered peaks made the climb unforgettable.
After crossing the pass, we descended into greener cloud forest terrain. That night we stayed in rustic wooden Andean huts in Chaullay, surrounded by denser vegetation and warmer mountain air.
Distance: roughly 16 to 17 miles
Elevation Gain: gradual rolling elevation throughout the day
Altitude: roughly 5,200 to 9,000 feet (1,600 to 2,750 meters)
Main Ecosystem: jungle and cloud forest
Notes
By day three, the landscape had completely transformed from high alpine mountains into lush jungle, rivers, waterfalls, and humid air as we continued toward Aguas Calientes.
We spent the night in a hostel in Aguas Calientes, the small mountain town below Machu Picchu, which felt like a major change after several nights of remote trail accommodations.
Distance: roughly 8 to 10 miles including Montana Machu Picchu
Elevation Gain: approximately 2,000 additional feet climbing Montana Machu Picchu
Altitude: up to roughly 10,100 feet (3,082 meters)
Main Ecosystem: cloud forest and ancient Incan mountain terrain
Notes
The final morning began before sunrise as we made our way toward Machu Picchu after several days of hiking through the Andes. Seeing the ancient citadel appear after earning it on foot felt incredibly surreal.
In addition to exploring Machu Picchu itself, we hiked Montana Machu Picchu, an additional mountain that overlooks the ruins and surrounding valleys. It was a steep extra climb after several long trekking days, but the panoramic view over Machu Picchu made it completely worth it.
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Peru Prints
All prints are professionally printed on high quality photo paper with a matte finish, designed to provide rich color, sharp detail, and long lasting quality for years to come.
Please note that pricing does not include matting or framing. Prints arrive unframed, allowing you to customize the final presentation to best suit your space and style.
Please allow approximately 2 to 3 weeks for printing, processing, and delivery.
All prints are professionally printed on high quality photo paper with a matte finish, designed to provide rich color, sharp detail, and long lasting quality for years to come.
Please note that pricing does not include matting or framing. Prints arrive unframed, allowing you to customize the final presentation to best suit your space and style.
Please allow approximately 2 to 3 weeks for printing, processing, and delivery.
All prints are professionally printed on high quality photo paper with a matte finish, designed to provide rich color, sharp detail, and long lasting quality for years to come.
Please note that pricing does not include matting or framing. Prints arrive unframed, allowing you to customize the final presentation to best suit your space and style.
Please allow approximately 2 to 3 weeks for printing, processing, and delivery.
All prints are professionally printed on high quality photo paper with a matte finish, designed to provide rich color, sharp detail, and long lasting quality for years to come.
Please note that pricing does not include matting or framing. Prints arrive unframed, allowing you to customize the final presentation to best suit your space and style.
Please allow approximately 2 to 3 weeks for printing, processing, and delivery.