1. I spent three delightful days in Lima, primarily to acclimate to the time difference and the local climate. Arriving at the end of December, I found the daytime temperature to be a comfortable 26 degrees Celsius. The upscale neighborhoods near the coast are not only safe but also brim with a vibrant holiday atmosphere. Despite the persistent fog, Lima rewards visitors with breathtaking sunsets every evening. The supermarkets offer a wide range of affordable goods, and there’s no shortage of dining options. We indulged in a seafood restaurant that specialized in fish, and we also enjoyed several meals at cliffside eateries, which provided stunning ocean views and delicious cuisine. One tip: Peruvian dishes tend to be on the salty side, so don’t hesitate to ask your server for a less salty version.
2. I embarked on a three-day, two-night adventure into the Amazon rainforest, complete with all meals and accommodations. Our hotel, featured in “Sisters Who Make Waves,” boasted air conditioning and was considered one of the better lodgings in the area. To my surprise, almost 90% of the guests were Chinese. While the experience was decent, it didn’t quite meet my expectations. I had hoped to encounter unique flora and fauna, but instead, we fished for small, unremarkable piranhas. A visit to an indigenous tribe allowed us to hold a sloth, which was a memorable experience. The food, tailored to Chinese tastes, was somewhat underwhelming. If our stay had been extended by another day, I doubt I would have been able to stomach it.
3. Cusco and Machu Picchu are absolute must-visit destinations and were the highlights of my trip. To prepare, I recommend watching documentaries like “Building Dreams: Mysterious Architectural Complexes” and “Traveling Around the World: The Lost City in the Sky – Cusco and Machu Picchu Ruins.” These films provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the historical and cultural significance of these sites.
4. Puno and Lake Titicaca offered a mixed bag of experiences. The Sun Route bus journey from Cusco to Lake Titicaca was enjoyable, with a knowledgeable and humorous English-speaking guide. Unfortunately, it rained the next day, making the weather quite chilly. Our first stop was the floating islands, which, despite the gloomy weather, should be a picturesque sight on a sunny day. The island we visited for a day trip was somewhat underwhelming and not particularly clean. It is said that staying overnight on the islands offers a cleaner and more authentic experience, but we did not get to try that. We then took a boat ride for an hour and a half to Taquile Island, where we only had lunch before returning, leaving us feeling a bit disappointed. From Puno, we continued our journey by bus to Bolivia.
One useful tip: In Peru, you can often find better deals by purchasing tickets and booking tours locally. By comparing prices, you’ll likely save money compared to booking from China. For Machu Picchu, it’s essential to book in advance, as tickets sell out quickly once they’re released online. However, if you miss out initially, locals assure that additional tickets are often made available later.
