I am finding it hard to process tha plethora of moments, memories and lessons afforded by my trip to Peru in Summer 2025. Perhaps the trip I’ve spent the most time dreaming of, and certainly the one that has required the most planning and prepping. Also, a return to solo traveling after a series of Summer trips with K., only briefly interrupted by a 10 day extravaganza in Albania and North Macedonia.
So, to break the ice, I’m going with a strategy I’ve used before: give you seemingly random images, hoping some form of order will emerge…or not.
Lima the grey. Lima in garúa, that ever-present fog that seems to blur all lines and contours.I will admit – I was excited to arrive but, after almost three days, I was happy to leave.
Hiking was the main reason for the trip, and hike I did. Taking in beatiful scenery, solo and in company. As always, hiking feels safe – it is my home. With the added benefit of a three day detox from booze and internet. Back home, I am still looking at maps and planning future adventures. Perhaps Huayhuash?
Officially – Huaraz’s is the smallest airport I’ve used. A total of two flights per day, probably the same plane: Latam arriving from Lima, Latam leaving for Lima. It felt almost cozy, and the views of the nevados were awesome.
After grey Lima and hideous Huaraz, Cusco came as a blessing for the spirit. A piece of Extremadura at almost 4000m, with endless strolling and people watching opportunities.
I knew I’d walk to Machu Picchu, but perhaps was not expecting so little glamour. 4 am wake-up, walk through ugly Aguascalientes (MP town), then on an unlit road all the way to the check-in point that opens at 5 am. After that, a quick hike in the dark in the sweat all the way to the entrance of the site. So much beauty waiting for me.
I must admit – I never got to like or enjoy Huaraz itself. Ugly beyond description, uncomfortable to navigate because of traffic and road works…plus, it took me almost two days to find a decent pub where I coud settle down, enjoy a beer or three, and get some writing done. All true but, alas, the views were stunning!
Officially, this is the coolest looking guy in all my trip. An Inka sheriff of sorts, greeting the passengers of a colectivo leaving Collpapampa en route to Llucmabamba, in the Salkantay trek region.
I knew that seeing Machu Picchu in the distance after three days of hiking would be a highlight of my trip. Well it was, and the added suspense of a foggy day only contributed to the thrill. I shared the joy with another hiker, and we couldn’t stop high-fiving between each photo, from the lookout offered by Llactapata.
Toward the end of my trip, I made a fascinating discovery. I can eat delicious, filling caldo de gallina (chicken broth) for 2.5 euro. Now I know this budget traveler will be skipping ceviches and lomos saltados on his next trip!
Gracias Porky (Callao politician who looks like…you know) and gracias Peru for so many so different moments of fun and inspiration.
More, better and tidier writing on Peru to come – promised.
B-Side Travels 