Fall Break in Peru!

After a week of midterms, my friend, Ella, and I decided to enjoy our fall break (because we are in the Southern hemisphere!) in Peru! Peru, and specifically Machu Picchu and Cusco, had been one of my dream destinations to visit since I was seven years old. Thus, I was extremely excited. We spent four days in Cusco, one in Aguas Calientes, and three in Lima, totalling eight days in Peru! The trip, although beautiful, was very challenging because of the altitude. I had to constantly remind myself to take things easy and not to compare myself to those around me who were used to the elevation. 

On the first day, we flew to Cusco and enjoyed the streets ourselves. The day after, we started our tours and toured Cusco and the nearby Saqsaywaman and Tambomachay, both of which are beautiful, rich sites. Then, we hiked Rainbow Mountain, which was by far my hardest challenge, and  travelled up to Aguas Calientes so we could get tickets for Machu Picchu. There, we spent a full day resting before picking up again on Machu Picchu day, otherwise known as my favorite day. Machu Picchu is perhaps the most gorgeous thing I’ve ever seen and I’ll forever remember it. Dreaming of seeing the citadel from a young age, I remember getting emotional at the sight of it! After our tour of the ruins, Ella and I packed our stuff up and took off for Cusco again where we spent the night before leaving for Sacred Valley. That day, we toured Ollantaytambo, the San Marias Salt Mines, Pisaq, and more! Early the next day, Ella and I flew to Lima where we spent our time surfing, making churros, walking around Parque Del Amor and the historic center, and shopping!

This trip to Peru is now one of my fondest memories. I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to travel with my friend and learn so much about a new place. Peru’s unique history and culture was incredibly captivating and I urge anyone who jas ever thought about visiting to book the trip!