Peru & Paraguay Travel Review: Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, Moray, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Horseback Riding

We booked private guided tours and the experience was great. The guides were very responsive to our interests and needs. We learned so much and enjoyed a far more intimate experience than going with a large group. While Machu Picchu was incomparable, we loved every aspect of the our sacred valley experience. The Horseback ride to Moray on the wonderful Peruvian Paso Horses was particularly memorable and enjoyable. The early morning misty sunrise and clear evening sunset in Machu Picchu were amazing and the climb of Montana Machupicchu was particularly challenging and thus very rewarding. We also loved Ollantaytambo and our visit with the local craftspeople in Chinchero.

Our unguided trip to Paraguay was to visit our son, who is serving in the Peace Corp. We also found Paraguay very enchanting. It has little tourist infrastructure and the cost of entry is a bit daunting but it is genuine and unspoiled. Trying the cold herbal Mate in the park and sharing it in the Compo with friends of our son was truly unique and enjoyable.