Eric and I have our big international trip locked in for 2017…we’re going to Peru to hike Machu Picchu in July!
I’m super excited. We’ve heard nothing but amazing things from every person we know who has done this same trek, and it’s actually a good amount of people!
I’m also a little nervous, because I’ve never really done an intense hiking or camping trip like this before. Going 0 to 100 real quick, y’all.
From those same people though, and all our research, I know we’ll be able to do it!
The first thing we booked were our spots for the Classic Inca Trail Trek through Alpaca Expeditions. We read up on lots of great companies, but landed on Alpaca Expeditions after reading all the awesome reviews and awards they’ve received. They have been stellar on customer service already, too!
We learned booking your trek 6 – 7 months in advance is recommended since there’s only a limited amount of permits for the Inca Trail allowed daily.
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The hike is four days and three nights. We’ll actually have individual porters who will carry our bags with the majority of our belongings, as well as our tents and sleeping bags. They’ll also help set up camp each night. Most trek companies have porters included or available for hire.
It’s clear tourism is an amazing source of jobs within the communities of Peru. Our trip is months away and I’m already so appreciative of these incredible men and women who will help us along the way!
Round trip flights to Lima have been booked. From there, we’ll travel to and from Cusco, where we’ll start and end the hike. *Cue Kuzco’s theme song from the Emperor’s New Groove. Anyone else??*
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Aside from the four day hike, we’ll also have a day in Lima and a couple in Cusco to explore! It’ll be our first time in South America.
So now, I’d love to hear from YOU. Have you been to Peru, or hiked Machu Picchu before?? Have you done a long, adventurous trek that’s similar?
What are must-bring items? Are there things you wish you had known or brought?
On our list so far – hiking boots, hiking pants, and a trip to the doctor for altitude medicine they say to have handy! We’re spending the recommended days in the city in advance of the trip to adjust, but I’m all about being safe than sorry.
Do you have a favorite hostel, Airbnb, or bed and breakfast you stayed at? Things to do in Cusco or Lima we must see?
I want to know it all! Please shoot me an email (contact info here) or comment below.
We can’t wait for this adventure. Happy Wednesday, friends!
P.S. We just got back from San Francisco…food guide to some yummy local spots coming soon! Want to see some photos in the meantime? Would love for you to follow along on Insta here!
I have never gone hiking before!!!! And I never even thought of altitude medicine. Makes sense!!! I’m so glad you got to do it!
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Thanks, Tania! I would’ve never thought unless I read an article. Can’t wait to share more of the journey with you! xo Dayna
what an incredible time! Llamas are my fav! so so cute
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Haha thanks lady!! I hope we see lots of them! xo Dayna
How wonderful! This is on my bucket list. I cant wait to see you actual photos later this year.
Sassyteacherchic.com
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Ah, yes it’s been on mine too! Can’t wait to share more with you! xo Dayna
First came to page – in awe from first image – looks beautiful. Second image, oh man, look at those furry animals. Next image – giggled at the Disney cartoon reference haha love it.
Hope you have a great time!
Vanessa | http://www.vanessarenae.com
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Thanks so much, Vanessa! Hehe I’m glad you loved that reference, I couldn’t help myself. xo Dayna
omg! how much fun. I heard Lima is amazing! You will have so much fun hiking and exploring!
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Eeek I can’t wait! Thanks so much, girly! xo Dayna
So jelly, Peru has been on my list forever. Can’t wait to see you guys there!
xoxo,
Alina | besosalina.com
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Thanks so much, Alina!! We’re so looking forward to it and I’ll definitely share all about the adventure! Xo Dayna
Wow it looks beautiful there, I would love to go
xo
http://www.laurajaneatelier.com
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I hope you get to!! I’ll be sure to share all my tips and photos once we go! xo Dayna
That’s so exciting! Seeing the Machu Picchu is always one of my bucketlist 🙂
xoxo
STYLE VANITY
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Thanks lady – we can’t wait!! Looking forward to sharing more with you! xo Dayna
I’ve never been so I don’t have much to add but looks like it will be an amazing trip!
xoxo,
Stacie
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Thanks so much, Stacie!! It’ll definitely be an adventure – appreciate you stopping by! xo Dayna
There are these leafs in Cusco called Coca, the locals drink it in tea to help with the altitude sickness! It really helped me when I went! You have to get lomo saltado and try guinea pig while you are there, my fave.
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Ooo thanks for this tip and for stopping by! I definitely want to make sure we’re ready for the altitude. xo Dayna
This sounds like such an awesome vacation!! I can’t wait to read about it when you’re back. Good luck hiking. you’ll do great!
xo,
Kristie
http://www.kristieincarolina.com
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Thanks so much, Kristie!! We’re so excited! Keep in touch! xo Dayna
What an adventure, this sounds like an amazing trip! Great post, thanks for sharing 🙂
Camille xo
http://www.cococami.blogspot.co.uk
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Thanks, Camille! Appreciate you stopping by – we’re so excited! xo Dayna