Cusco, Peru

The journey begins at about 3am on the streets of Cusco, where we pile into a minivan and drive a few hours to arrive at the foot of Vinicuna (Rainbow Mountain) as day breaks.  It’s a crisp, sunny morning at the foot of the climb (14,189ft) and the local compañeras line the path with dozens of ho...

Sacsayhuaman is located  about 10 minutes from the Plaza de Armas (by car) or 45 minutes walking. Another option is to take a ‘City Tour’, which includes transportation to this archaeological site. The entrance fee is included with the "Boleto Turistico" which is a ticket that gets you into the m...

Of all the hikes within the proximity of the city of Cusco, this one is the coolest. Not only that, but no one knows about it. It is a local's only secret. The only reason I know about it was because I lived there for years.There are two approaches to the hike. One that is for beginners, and is a...

The Pisac ruins bear a striking resemblance to Machu Picchu, just on a smaller scale. Fascinatingly, the drainage systems and agricultural terraces built in 1440 along with the rest of the ruins are still in use today. The Pisac ruins are believed to have defended the Southern entrance to the Sac...

This is a steep but short hike to see some beautiful terraces and granaries across from the main Ollantaytambo fortress. Depending on your level of fitness, the climb can take between 30 minutes to an hour. It'swell worth it for the spectacular views of Ollantaytambo town and views of the ruins o...

Day 1: Cusco to Ayapata (10 miles) The trail starts at 8,923 ft at the main gate operating the permit and passport check-ins at KM 82, Piscachucho. You'll cross the Urubamba River on a suspension bridge and proceed towards Ayapata at 10,829 ft. It's an easy day on the first day and should take ab...

Spanning just 4 days, but featuring 7 summits over 15,000 feet (and topping out at nearly 17,000'), this trail is not for the faint of heart.  Since the trail is extremely remote, permission must be attained from the locals. This is most easily done through a local guide company (I went with Kill...

Day 1: Cusco to Soraypampa to Wayracpunku (9 miles)The trail starts at 12477 ft and proceeds towards Salkantay Pass at 15090 ft. It's a gradual climb and incredibly beautiful. From the pass, it's a short downhill to the campground in Huayracmachay at 12477 ft. Even if the weather is sunny and cle...

The route is access fairly easily from Sorayapampa. You follow the trail to the west of town, towards the lake. as you work your way up the gully you get to south western trail. Take this upwards. You can follow the trail up to the Incan Cross, itself a marvelous view point. From the Incan cross ...

The 1,000ft climb up Huayna Picchu is one of the highlights of a visit to Machu Picchu. This diamond shaped mountain looms directly behind the site and provides a unique perspective of Machu Picchu, allowing you to see the amazing engineering that went into this site. You start the hike on the fa...

Getting There: When you're purchasing your ticket for Machu Picchu, there is the option to add on "Machu Picchu Mountain". To do this hike, you need to purchase this add-on. Like Huayna Picchu, only a certain number of people are allowed up per day, so make sure you purchase your ticket ahead of ...