what to do in Arequipa: the colonial gem of Peru

Arequipa, often dubbed ‘the white city’ is the colonial pride of Peru. The second-largest city in the country combines beautiful colonial buildings with all modern amenities of a large urban dwelling. It is situated about 2300 meters above sea-level making it the perfect place to acclimatise to the altitude before visiting Cusco, Machu Picchu or Puno which are all a lot higher up. And with the Colca Canyon, El Misti and Chachani on its doorstep, there is really no reason to skip this beautiful colonial gem. The question that remains is, what to do in Arequipa? 

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The best way to get to Machu Picchu: the Salkantay Trek

The best way to get to the holy city of the Incas is not the easiest, but the 5 day/4 night Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu is worth every drop of sweat. You’ll be balancing rocky ridges between snow-capped peaks the one day, only to decent into lush rain forest the next. You’ll see glaciers, cross cold mountain streams, eat ripe fruits straight from the trees and relax in beautiful hot springs after a hard day of trekking. Salkantay trekking has it all and more, because not only is this an epic walk, it is also the route to Machu Picchu. Continue reading “The best way to get to Machu Picchu: the Salkantay Trek”