In 2022, on an ordinary day that was quickly transformed into the extraordinary, I stumbled upon a serendipitous find - a cheap flight that sparked a rush of excitement wit
hin me. It was then that I felt the call of South America tugging at my wanderlust. It was time, I decided, to answer that call and to plunge into the pulsating heart of adventure.
I've always romanticized the spontaneity of just packing my bags, allowing the wind to guide me, and seeing where "come what may" would lead me. However, the pragmatic part of me recognized the potential pitfalls of such an unplanned journey. A leap of faith may start with a jump, but it doesn't end with the fall - it's also about a smooth landing.
So, there I was, six months ahead of my journey, entrenched in a vortex of meticulous planning. I was determined to decode the secrets of a well-planned journey, which was akin to a complex puzzle. Every piece mattered: the routes, the culture, the language, the currency, the cuisine, the possible pitfalls, and of course, my budget. I was determined to chart my course, leaving room for surprises but not for unwanted shocks.
Fast forward to six months later, I was standing on the precipice of what promised to be the journey of a lifetime - my December 2022 solo travel. Each moment leading up to it had felt like a blend of arduous preparation and joyous anticipation. Now, with my passport in one hand, a suitcase full of essentials in the other, and a heart full of dreams, I was ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure. This journey, I knew, was not merely about reaching a destination; it was also about embracing every twist and turn that would lead me there.
December 19th, I bade farewell to the sun-kissed beaches of the Caribbean and found myself winging towards my first destination, the enthralling land of Peru. As the plane sliced through the skies, my heart was alight with anticipation and dreams – dreams painted in shades of the ancient Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu is a name that needs no introduction among travel enthusiasts. Perched high in the Andes, it has for long been a tantalizing beacon, drawing travelers from around the world, and it had been a dream of mine since childhood. As an architecture student, I had painstakingly sketched plates of this archaeological wonder, every line etched amplifying my longing to see this UNESCO World Heritage site firsthand.
But Peru is more than just Machu Picchu. My research revealed a cornucopia of experiences waiting to be discovered. Every city and town, every nook and cranny, seemed to hold a unique story, a different adventure. In this digital age, the internet was my guide, leading me through the labyrinth of travel blogs, reviews, and recommendations.
One website, in particular, caught my attention. It was Peru Hop. This was the answer to my quest - a one-stop-shop for planning my itinerary. As a solo traveler, convenience was crucial. I needed a service that would take the guesswork out of my travel, and Peru Hop was it. It was like having a knowledgeable companion who could guide me through the sprawling cityscapes and remote landscapes, making sure I made the most of my limited time and budget. I was ready, Peru Hop at my side, to navigate the wonders of Peru.
Peru Hop was a veritable godsend for the intrepid yet pragmatic adventurer in me. The website was incredibly user-friendly, with an interface designed to make trip planning as smooth as sipping Pisco sour - the country's signature cocktail. The representatives were quick to respond to queries, always ready with a helpful tip or advice. It was as if I had a travel genie at my beck and call, smoothing out any wrinkles in my plans.
Choosing an itinerary was as simple as pie. All I had to do was select the journey I desired and make note of the scheduled bus stops. Like a thrilling game of connect-the-dots, Peru Hop charted a path through the wonders of Peru, stopping at predetermined locations along the way.
My excitement soared as I booked my tours through the site. Every bit of essential information was right there, laid out in an easy-to-understand format. Like the blueprints I used as an architecture student, the details guided my planning, allowing me to structure my journey in a way that maximized my time and experience.
One critical aspect of my planning was lodging. Using the bus timeline and the various stops, I strategically booked my accommodations. This way, my hotels were always conveniently located, saving me time and the hassle of commuting. Each day ended with me retiring to a comfortable bed, ready to recharge for the next day's adventure.
This is how I made it happen - a solo journey made smoother by the wonders of modern technology and the assistance of Peru Hop. The combination of adventurous spirit, meticulous planning, and a handy travel companion set the stage for an unforgettable journey.
December 21,Day 1 in Peru
After nearly 10 hours of travel, encompassing layovers in Miami and Medellin, Colombia, I finally set foot on Peruvian soil. There I was, at Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima, armed with nothing but a backpack and a compact trolley bag, a solo voyager ready to dive into the heart of this captivating country.
Despite the journey and the tiredness that started to creep in, I was brimming with anticipation. This was it, I was finally here, ready to explore, ready to discover. But first, I needed to navigate the bustling airport and find my way to my accommodation. The airport was a hum of activity, even at 2 am. Amongst the flurry of arrivals and departures, I made my way to the taxi booking stalls.
While other transportation was an option, I decided to take a taxi for the sake of convenience and timing. With the echoes of my flight still in my ears and the fatigue beginning to settle, all I wanted was to get to my hotel as quickly as possible. I interacted with the taxi representative, my words flowing in a mix of excitement and exhaustion. Luckily, English was a bridge between us. I paid the fare, and before long, I found myself being escorted by a driver to a taxi idling in the chilly night.
Through the darkness, Lima unraveled before me, an urban maze glistening under the moonlight. As the taxi pulled up in front of the San Agustin Exclusive Hotel, a wave of relief washed over me. I had made it.
The paperwork at the hotel was just another hurdle to jump over before I could finally rest. Keys in hand, I trudged to my room. As I collapsed onto the comfortable bed, the day's weariness melted away, replaced with the promise of the adventures that awaited me with the new dawn. Even as sleep claimed me, my mind danced with dreams of the wonders of Peru that were waiting to be explored.
Miraflores to Lima
When the first rays of sunlight peeked through the window of my room at the San Agustin Exclusive Hotel, I sprang up, energized and ready to immerse myself in the Peruvian culture. With a heart full of excitement, I stepped out into the charming neighborhood of Miraflores. The district, with its perfect blend of modernity and tradition, was a microcosm of what I imagined Peru to be.
Just around the corner from the hotel, I discovered a 24-hour mini convenience store. It was here I picked up a variety of Peruvian snacks – a little fuel to keep my energy up during my explorations. I made a mental note to come back later, as it was the perfect spot to grab some late-night munchies or early morning pick-me-ups.
A short stroll away lay Larcomar, a shopping mall unlike any other. Perched on a cliff overlooking the breathtaking Redondo beach, it offered spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The sight of the waves lapping against the beach as cars sped on the highways beneath and the sun cast an orange glow over the horizon was a sight to behold. I whiled away hours here, losing myself in the diverse selection of shops, dining at its myriad of restaurants, and simply basking in the beauty of the location.
Nearby was the tourist visitor center, a hub for wanderers like me. One of the reasons I had chosen my hotel was its proximity to this center, and the fact that the Peru Hop bus stopped here was an added bonus. Inside, I found a wealth of information and friendly, helpful staff ready to guide me through my Peruvian adventure.
Eager to delve into the rich history and culture of Lima, I booked a city tour for the afternoon. There was a sense of anticipation as I waited for the tour to start, knowing that I was about to explore a city that was both the capital of Peru and its largest city. A city that held centuries of history within its bounds. I knew then that my Peruvian journey had truly begun.
At 2 pm, a sense of excitement was already hanging in the air at the tourist center. Our guide arrived, a beacon of knowledge and experience, ready to shepherd us through the labyrinth of Lima's history and culture. A small band of adventurers, we were gathered from various corners of the city.
We stepped onto the metro train, a modern marvel cutting through the heart of the city, connecting its myriad neighborhoods. As we alighted at Central station, Lima spread before us, a canvas painted with a vibrant mix of historic grandeur and modern vitality.
Our first stop was the Parque Neptuno. Standing at its heart, with fellow explorers gathered around, the guide went over what we could expect from the tour. It was as if we were preparing to unravel the layers of Lima's rich tapestry, a blend of indigenous culture, colonial influences, and contemporary innovations.
Then, just across the road, I saw it - our first architectural marvel, the Palace of Justice. A grand edifice that dominated its surroundings, it was an imposing symbol of the country's judicial system. I quickly snapped a picture, capturing the moment in time. Its neoclassical design, imposing pillars, and expansive stairs were an awe-inspiring sight. It was a silent testament to the city's rich history, standing tall amidst the bustling modernity of Lima, and this was just the beginning. I could already tell that Lima had a lot more in store for us, and I couldn't wait to discover what was next.
As we journeyed deeper into the heart of the city, we found ourselves in Plaza San Martin. Named after Peru's liberator, Jose de San Martin, the square was abuzz with activity. Policemen were positioned around the area, their presence a stark reminder of the political unrest simmering beneath Peru's vibrant surface. It was disconcerting to learn that the turmoil had impacted travelers' plans, with the iconic Machu Picchu temporarily off-limits due to roadblocks. A sense of apprehension began to brew within me, the thought of missing out on Machu Picchu was unsettling, but I reminded myself to focus on the present, on the rich experiences that Lima had to offer.
As we ventured into Lima's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the atmosphere was electric. A living, breathing testament to the city's history, it was a vibrant blend of the past and the present. Street vendors set up their stalls, selling everything from traditional Peruvian cuisine to handicrafts, creating a colorful and lively street scene. Despite the political issues, tourists flocked to this part of the city, eager to soak up its rich heritage.
The architecture was a highlight of the historic center. As an architecture student, I was awestruck by the abundance of colonial-era buildings, each a masterpiece in its own right. The district was a treasure trove of Baroque and neoclassical architecture, with intricate facades, grand balconies, and ornate courtyards.
Among the architectural marvels, the Lima Cathedral stood out. Its imposing facade and the twin towers reached for the heavens, while the interiors were a vision of gilded altars, intricately carved wooden stalls, and religious art. The Archbishop's Palace, with its iconic wooden balcony, was another beauty. As was the Presidential Palace, a symbol of power and authority that has housed Peru's leaders for centuries.
Every building, every street in the historic center had a story to tell, a story of the people who had lived there, of a civilization that had flourished, and of a city that had evolved through the ages. Lima's historic center was more than just a collection of beautiful buildings, it was a celebration of Peru's rich heritage and cultural diversity. I was already captivated, and the journey had just begun.
As we meandered through the lively streets, the tantalizing aroma of "churros" wafted through the air. A staple in Peruvian street food, churros are long, thin pastries, deep-fried until golden brown and sprinkled with sugar. They're typically served with a side of rich, melted chocolate for dipping. The churro's outer crunch gives way to a soft, warm interior, a delightful contrast that's utterly addictive. And when dunked into the dark, velvety chocolate, it's pure indulgence.
Our tour concluded at Parque de la Muralla, a park that was once part of Lima's ancient wall. Here, you could see remnants of the past merging with the present, offering a glimpse into the city's fortified history. As I looked beyond the park, the arid mountains in the distance presented a stark contrast to the bustling city, a reminder of Peru's diverse landscapes.
Our guides bid us farewell, leaving us enriched with stories and a deeper appreciation for Lima's rich history. But the day wasn't over yet. Along with some of my fellow tour members, we ventured into the nearby Chinatown. Its vibrant atmosphere and unique blend of Peruvian and Chinese cultures were fascinating to explore. We dined on "chifa," a culinary fusion of Cantonese and Peruvian cuisines that's a must-try when in Lima.
Our adventure continued into a bustling public market, a hive of activity with vendors selling a plethora of goods. Navigating our way to the metro station proved to be a bit of a challenge, as locals primarily spoke Spanish. However, armed with basic Spanish phrases and a keen sense of adventure, we made our way back to Miraflores.
As I walked back to my hotel, the city bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun, I reflected on my first day in Peru. It had been a whirlwind of experiences, a blend of history, culture, food, and camaraderie. As I fell into bed that night, exhausted but fulfilled, I realized that this was just the beginning of my South American adventure.
Tour Guide Fee: The fee for a day tour guide in Lima is typically around 20 soles, which is equivalent to approximately 6 USD. This fee is reasonably priced, considering the amount of knowledge and assistance a guide provides throughout the tour.
Tipping Culture: In South America, tipping is customary and is seen as a gesture of appreciation for good service. You can give a tip whenever you feel particularly pleased with the service you've received. For a guide, a tip of around 20 soles or 6 dollars is considered suitable.
Beware of Pickpockets: As with many bustling cities worldwide, pickpocketing can be a concern. Our guide frequently reminded us to be cautious, especially while travelling on public transport or in crowded areas. Always keep an eye on your belongings and stay vigilant to avoid any unpleasant situations.
Brush Up Your Spanish: Not everyone in Peru speaks English, especially outside of the tourist areas. Brushing up on your Spanish can enhance your travel experience greatly, making interactions with locals smoother and more enjoyable. Even a few basic phrases can go a long way!
December 22,day 2 in Peru
Paracas National Reserve
Day 2 promised a whole new adventure, as I set off bright and early for a day trip to the Paracas National Reserve. A van picked me up from the hotel, and I soon found myself mingling with other excited travelers aboard the distinct Peru Hop bus. Our destination? A landscape where the land meets the sea.
The journey to Paracas National Reserve was a spectacle in itself. As we traveled, Peru's diverse landscapes unfurled before our eyes - from sprawling fields and arid deserts to thick forests. The anticipation built with each passing mile, as we neared the place where the deep blue ocean kisses the rugged terrain.
Encompassing one of the most unique eco-systems in the world, the Paracas National Reserve is an incredible showcase of biodiversity. It's a sanctuary for an array of wildlife species, including a variety of birds such as flamingos, pelicans, and Humboldt penguins, as well as sea lions, and even dolphins.
The reserve's landscapes are as diverse as its wildlife - spanning desert dunes, rocky cliffs, and stunning beaches. Perhaps the most remarkable is Playa Roja, a beach with distinctive red sand, contrasting against the azure blue of the Pacific Ocean.
Visitors can also delve into the area's rich history. The reserve houses the ancient Paracas culture's remnants, renowned for their intricate textiles and ceramics.
Our journey to Paracas culminated around 9 AM as we pulled into one of Peru Hop's designated meeting points: the Backpackers Hostel. Here, we had a chance to stretch our legs, fuel up, and soak in the local vibes before the next leg of our adventure.
A short walk from the hostel brought us to the bustling dock, our gateway to the Paracas National Reserve's marine wonders. We joined a crowd of eager explorers, all waiting their turn for the boat tour that would transport us across the sapphire expanse towards the islands brimming with wildlife. The air was thick with anticipation and salt, while the echo of gulls and the rhythm of waves provided a nautical soundtrack to our excitement.
As we climbed aboard the boat, we were each handed a life vest, our safeguard against the unpredictable ocean. Our guide, fluent in English and gifted with an infectious enthusiasm, primed us for the voyage ahead.
And then we set sail, cutting through the Pacific's azure waters towards an experience brimming with the wonders of nature. As the mainland receded behind us, the thrill of discovery amplified. What lay ahead was uncharted territory for us all, an exciting plunge into the unknown.
The Paracas National Reserve did not disappoint. Mother Nature staged a spectacle that far surpassed our wildest expectations. As we navigated the waters surrounding the islands, we were treated to the incredible biodiversity that the reserve is celebrated for. It was a live theater of nature, and we had front row seats to the show. The diversity of wildlife, the stunning landscapes, and the sheer magnitude of life thriving in this unique ecosystem made our voyage a truly unforgettable experience.
Our return journey was just as captivating, as we sailed past lounging sea lions who are making their turns to lounge on the bulbous bow of the ship for their siesta. Their carefree demeanor and unabashed laziness brought a smile to everyone on board.
Back on dry land, we found a cozy spot for lunch, with the mighty Pacific stretching out as our dining view. Boats dotted the azure canvas, their hulls bobbing gently with the waves. As I enjoyed my meal, I found myself still spellbound by the morning's adventure, the memories of the Paracas National Reserve fresh in my mind.
I wholeheartedly recommend making this journey yourself. To see, to hear, to smell, to feel – this experience offers a sensory feast that you must savor in person to fully appreciate. The satisfaction it brought me is something I wish for each of you to enjoy.
After lunch, we returned to our meeting point to await the familiar sight of the Peru Hop bus. Our day was far from over, and the sun continued to shine brightly in the Peruvian sky. With renewed energy, we prepared ourselves for the next leg of our adventure – a visit to the intriguing desert oasis village of Huacachina. The day, still ripe with promise, continued to unfurl with boundless possibilities.
Huacachina
Tucked away in the heart of Peru's sprawling desert, Huacachina is a veritable oasis of palm trees, flowering plants, and a shimmering lagoon said to have therapeutic properties. Surrounding this oasis are towering sand dunes that seem to roll on endlessly, creating a landscape so dramatic it feels plucked from a fantasy novel.
The village itself is small, home to just a few hundred permanent residents, but its charm is irresistible. Quaint hotels, rustic eateries, and lively bars line the lagoon's edge, providing the perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls or languid afternoons spent sipping a cool drink.
Huacachina's true allure, however, lies in its thrilling recreational activities. Visitors can participate in sandboarding, an exhilarating sport similar to snowboarding but performed on sand dunes instead of snow-covered slopes. There's also the high-octane dune buggy rides, where drivers maneuver specially adapted vehicles over the sand dunes at exciting speeds, offering a blend of adrenaline and breathtaking views that are hard to forget.
And when the sun starts to dip below the horizon, Huacachina becomes the stage for some of the most stunning sunsets. The changing hues of the sky, mirrored in the tranquil lagoon, against the backdrop of majestic dunes, is a spectacle that needs to be witnessed firsthand to be truly appreciated.
In essence, Huacachina is an unforgettable blend of tranquility and adventure, set against a backdrop of natural beauty that leaves visitors spellbound. It's an enigmatic pocket of paradise that effortlessly captivates the imagination and hearts of those who visit.
Arriving in Huacachina around 3:00 pm, we were greeted by an expansive landscape of rolling sand dunes surrounding a tranquil lagoon at its heart. Our guides led us to a local hotel that served as our basecamp, allowing us some time to absorb the unique beauty of this desert oasis. The sands shimmered in the afternoon sun, reflecting a palette of golden hues that seemed straight out of an artist's dream.
Once we had our fill of exploration and obligatory photo ops, it was time to amp up the adrenaline. First up was the dune buggy ride - an experience not for the faint-hearted. Let me tell you, this is akin to a rollercoaster ride, but instead of tracks, we had undulating sand dunes. The buggy zoomed and careened over the sands, sending our hearts into our throats and inciting a symphony of joyous screams and laughter from everyone onboard.
After surviving the dune buggy's wild ride, we set our sights on the towering sand dunes for a taste of sandboarding. There's an unrivaled sense of childlike thrill as you lay belly-down on a board, release your grip, and surrender to gravity, careening down the steep sand slope.
As the day started to wind down, we found ourselves atop the dunes, basking in the ethereal beauty of the setting sun. The dunes seemed to glow under the warm, honey-hued light, a 360-degree panorama of unending sand that was nothing short of mesmerizing.
The day's thrilling exploits concluded with a gentle descent back to our meeting point. As much as I would have loved to spend the night in Huacachina, my journey had to continue. I was due to catch a flight from Lima to Cusco the next day, meaning I had to bid this enchanting desert paradise goodbye far sooner than I would have liked.
So, with a heart full of unforgettable memories and a little sand still in my shoes, I boarded the Peru Hop bus and settled in for the journey back to my hotel in Miraflores. This marked the end of my time in Huacachina, but the impression it left was indelible, a testament to the magic of this remarkable oasis.
As I watched the sand dunes recede in the bus's rear-view mirror, I couldn't help but feel a pang of longing. One month may seem like a substantial amount of time for a solo journey, but with each new experience, I realized just how much more of South America there was to explore. I was already dreaming of the places I couldn't fit into this trip, plotting my return before the journey was even over.
1. Always pack enough water and snacks. Bottled water tends to get more expensive in tourist areas, so it's best to purchase from local convenience stores or supermarkets.
2. Be sure to read up on all the essential information available on the Peru Hop website. They offer a wealth of knowledge that can prove immensely helpful in planning your trip.
3. Tipping is customary in South America. Whether it's for your guides, drivers, or restaurant servers, a little extra is always appreciated.
4. Brush up on your Spanish. While Huacachina is a tourist area, you'll find that not everyone speaks fluent English. Knowing basic phrases can come in handy.
5. Don't forget to pack a mask and shades to protect your eyes during the sand activities. The desert can be windy, and you don't want to get sand in your eyes while sandboarding or during the dune buggy ride.
Ceviche for the night
Ceviche, an iconic Peruvian dish, is a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that will transport your palate straight to the heart of Lima with each bite. At its core, it involves fresh raw fish, "cooked" by marinating in a punchy citrus dressing. This citric acid essentially alters the structure of the protein, giving it the appearance and texture of cooked fish, without the need for heat. The fish is typically marinated in lime or bitter orange juice, and the acid from the citrus causes the proteins in the seafood to become denatured. Accompanying the fish are thinly sliced onions, chili peppers, salt, and cilantro, all contributing to a riot of flavors that range from tangy to spicy. Some variations also include refreshing sides such as avocado, sweet corn, or sweet potatoes. After a thrilling day of exploration and adventure, there is no better way to unwind than with a plate of fresh ceviche, paired with a local beer in hand.
And as the night came to a close, I couldn't help but let my anticipation for tomorrow bubble over. I would be catching a flight to Cusco, the gateway to the sacred city of Machu Picchu, a place that has been etched in my dreams for as long as I can remember. As I lay in bed, I imagined the city in the sky, its ancient stone walls whispering tales of the Inca Empire. Little did I know, the reality would surpass even my wildest dreams. But that's a story for another day.
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