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Trip Report

Perú

This country is much more than Machu Picchu.

  • Lima+ 1
  • Lima
  • Cusco
  • Perú
ausra
About Me:dreamer and life lover read more

South AmericaPeru, Chile5 days / April 2018

Highs & Lows

History and landscape.

Rainy season and bad roads.

Itinerary Overview

I arrived at Lima's airport and had one full day to discover this capital. I really enjoyed walking in Miraflores. It has a beautiful Kennedy park, is surrounded by high-rise buildings, and has a boulevard overlooking the ocean. Lots of people doing sports, walking around, or enjoying street food (I tried a nice crepe). There are a lot of theaters, restaurants, and bars, which make Miraflores the place to go for a good night out. There is also lots of green areas for a midday nap.

In Miraflores, there is  a sweet spot called Parque del Amor (Park of Love).

Another place that I enjoyed a lot was Larco Museum which shows an amazing collection of pre-Columbian art. The best part of it was  (unexpected) pre-Columbian erotic pottery (try to have a guide or audio guide to understand everything the what's and why's).

Also, even if I didn't have lots of time, I visited Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor), which is a historical center of Lima, and its Cathedral next to it.

  • 1 Night: Lima
    Airport - arrival destination
  • 4 Nights: Cusco
    To get to Machu Picchu
Lima - Airport - arrival destination
1

Lima Airport - arrival destination

Lima - Airport - arrival destination - null
Lima - Airport - arrival destination - null

I arrived at Lima's airport and had one full day to discover this capital. I really enjoyed walking in Miraflores. It has a beautiful Kennedy park, is surrounded by high-rise buildings, and has a boulevard overlooking the ocean. Lots of people doing sports, walking around, or enjoying street food (I tried a nice crepe). There are a lot of theaters, restaurants, and bars, which make Miraflores the place to go for a good night out. There is also lots of green areas for a midday nap. 

In Miraflores, there is  a sweet spot called Parque del Amor (Park of Love).

Another place that I enjoyed a lot was Larco Museum which shows an amazing collection of pre-Columbian art. The best part of it was  (unexpected) pre-Columbian erotic pottery (try to have a guide or audio guide to understand everything the what's and why's).

Also, even if I didn't have lots of time, I visited Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor), which is a historical center of Lima, and its Cathedral next to it.

Cusco - To get to Machu Picchu
2

Cusco To get to Machu Picchu

Cusco - To get to Machu Picchu - null
Cusco - To get to Machu Picchu - null

I didn't expect much from this place as it was more about getting ready to go Machu Picchu, however, it surprised me with lots of interesting spots. 

I really enjoyed its old town and especially, the district of San Blas where you can find very fascinating artisan work, cute shops, and little galleries. Also, there are people (children including) in traditional clothes walking around with their alpacas (or llamas, who knows). 

I also went on an all-day excursion to Valle Sagrado of The Incas. It's a good way to learn more about local people, the history and ancient civilizations. We visited the ancient ruins of Ollantaytambo, Pisac crop terraces Chinchero and Maras Salt mines. It would have been one of the best tours if I didn't get altitude sickness (won't comment on this one). I suggest to everyone to chill in Cuzco for a day or two before doing any hard traveling or walking.

Q & A

  • What would you have changed?

    To have more time in every place
  • Tips you would give a friend?

    Eat as much as you can ! Food it's just delicious
  • Transportation Tips?

    Uber is a good option

Lodging

  • 1900 Hostel. Cheap and friendly staff.

  • Pariwana Hostel. Comfortable common area and nice brekfast.