- travelrambles
Updated: Dec 31, 2020
After our history lesson at Machu Picchu and overly ambitious shopping trips in Cusco, it was time to hit the road again towards Lake Titicaca (cue the giggles). The lake is not only the largest in South America but it is the highest navigable body of water in the WORLD ;) At 3,800+ meters above sea level and 8,300+km2, this massive body of water spans across both Peru and Bolivia. It was a tough choice but we ultimately decided to head towards the Bolivian side (Copacabana) instead of Puno. If you want to check out the famous reed islands (man made islands), then head to the Peruvian side. The Bolivian is supposedly the more "scenic" side with amazing trails and a "livelier" town.
Summary Days spent: 3 nights, 4 days Type of Lodging: Loft Hotel Name of Lodging: Onkel Inn Torres de Copacabana Activities: A lot of lake gazing, a makeshift floating island/fishing village & access to Isla del Sol Copacabana was a nice temporary getaway from the chaos of the major cities. There is not too much to do in the town but most people use Copacabana as the gateway for Isla Del Sol. Since our group only did a 1 day trek of Isla Del Sol, our overall stay felt a bit extended but gauge based on your own plans :) Overall, I would recommend the town as a rest stop if you are trying to make our way from Peru to Bolivia (or vice versa). Although it is the "nicer" side of Lake Titicaca, there is really not too much to do in Copacabana. Click HERE to read more about our trip and reviews.
- travelrambles
Updated: Jan 6, 2021
We started our morning "trek", and by trek I mean bus ride, towards Machu Picchu at 6AM. Some of our hostel mates started their actual hike at 4AM .. unbelievable. The road up is not at all accommodating to hikers let alone huge buses using the narrow roads as two lanes. When in South America! We wanted to get up there early to avoid the herds of tourists (despite being one ourselves), which was definitely worthwhile as the serene view of the landscape paired with the rolling fog was absolutely breath taking.
We were in Machu Picchu for a total of 5-6 hours and went through so many weather changes (cold foggy morning to blistering hot weather). Be prepared to dress accordingly! The first view upon entering is such a stunner. It's still so hard to believe they were able to accomplish so much in the 15th century. The level of detail is truly amazing. Of course, the iconic post card snapshot is a must. Definitely recommend taking a few minutes here and soaking it all in. The perfect recipe for peace of mind.
Summary Days spent: 1 nights, 1 day Type of Lodging: Hostel Name of Lodging: Super Tramp Hostel Activities: Sight seeing and good eats & cheap massages in the town of Aguas Caliente Aguas Caliente was not nearly as bad as what people made it out to be. Although super overpriced, it still has its charm. Bargain for EVERYTHING (even the menu). Massages were also super cheap (although not very good but how can you complain for a $5 "massage"). There are extra sights to check out while there, such as a local waterfall or an extra hike adjacent to the Machu Picchu mountain, but most people do not allow time for this as they are only in town for the main attraction. The bus station to purchase and board the buses up are just around the corner from the train station (slight left & across the bridge). Last but not least, make sure you buy your entrance tickets well in advance! You do not want to travel so far just to find out all tickets have been sold out. Click HERE to read more about our South America trip and reviews.
- travelrambles
Updated: Dec 31, 2020
From 40+ degrees Colombian beach weather, it was a very different scene upon landing in Cusco, Peru at 3400m elevation. The South American vibrancy remained intact with all the colourful textiles, silver and markets. We made Cusco our home before making our way to Machu Picchu to get acclimatized to the extreme elevation. With all the amazing food, shopping and sights it was difficult to leave!
Summary Days spent: 1 nights, 1 day Type of Lodging: Hostel Name of Lodging: Ecopackers Activities: Amazing food, awesome shopping and charming sights
Loved, loved Cusco. Can't wait to come back!