Peru Travel Review: Cusco, Machu Picchu, Inca Trail Hike, Sacred Valley

The Peru travel company did a great job planning and executing my family's trip to Peru in March, 2014. This was my second trip to Peru and my family's first trip. We flew into Lima and spent one night before flying on to Cuzco.  While in Cuzco, we toured the city and neighboring Saksaywaman and surrounding Inca sites.  Our trip continued with a visit to Pisac and Ollantaytombo in the Sacred Valley with an overnight stay near Ollantaytombo.  We continued on by train the next day to Machupicchu Town at the base of the Mountain on which Machu Picchu is situated. After touring Machu Picchu, we hiked the Inca Trail up to the Sun Gate which provided an unforgettable view of Machu Picchu.  Our trip concluded with a return to Cuzco for one more night in Peru.

The travel company made this trip stress free. Every detail was taken care of and there was always someone from the company there to make sure that our airport/hotel transfers and tours were completed in a timely manner.  I requested a change to our itinerary when we were in Machupicchu Town so that we could return to Cuzco earlier in the day.  The agency sent someone to our hotel who walked me to the train station to change the train tickets for an earlier departure. I have never had such service on any trip within the US or abroad as was provided by this tour company.  Our tour guides were true professionals who brought to life the historic sites and provided insights into the social and economic fabric of Peru both past and present.  Tourism is one of the three major industries in Peru and tour guides usually spend 5 years in a university program to qualify for those positions. One suggestion that I have for potential travelers to Peru is to remember that the folks providing for your visit are doing a great job and you should tip appropriately to express your appreciation and to act courteously. You will have an enjoyable and rewarding trip.