Travel South America for a year

Great Machu Picchu is the number one attraction in Peru, but there is so much more than that and I even dare to say, more beautiful places with much fewer people!

Inti Punku literally means Sun door in Quechua, we haven't got much sun while being up there, but we sure got a wonderful view at the valley and the clouds hiding 6000 m tall snow peaks.

When we have discovered a way towards the Chicon Mountain, which most people admire only from bellow, it was no doubt we want to climb it. And so one Saturday morning, we have set to this demanding hike.

We started our adventure in the Sacred Valley with a hike up Saywa Hill. At 3,840 meters, the summit not only offers breathtaking views of the Chicon Glacier but also fascinating Inca archaeological remains, making it a unique destination for those seeking both natural beauty and history.

The Colca Canyon in Peru boasts the status of the second deepest in the world and the source of the Amazon river. Most people decide for a one day tour to Colca Canyon with an agency from Arequipa, which is a pity. From hot springs to hiking and watching condors, there are loads of things to do in Colca.

The Colca Canyon is perhaps the second deepest, but for me, it’s the first most beautiful. During our visit, we went to the lower part of the canyon to hike in unspoiled nature untouched even by a Lonely Planet Guide.

On the bottom of Colca canyon lies a small hidden oasis with tropical fruits, palm trees, and refreshing pools. To get there we had to make a steep descent of 1200m, but the reward was worth it.

One-day trip from Ica turned into a 3-day visit with sleeping on the beach, watching wildlife and enjoying the peace and quiet of a desert...