Peru

We traveled to Peru twice, and each journey revealed a completely different side of this extraordinary country. From steamy rainforests to soaring Andean peaks, Peru dazzled us with contrasts at every turn.

We plunged into the lush Amazon rainforest in Iquitos, where dense jungle and winding rivers immersed us in a world alive with sound and color. We explored the bustling streets of Lima, absorbing the rhythm of the capital where history and modern life collide. Beyond the coast, the landscapes shifted dramatically as we wandered the golden sands of the Huacachina desert oasis and reflected on the serene waters of Lake Titicaca, where time seemed to slow.

High in the Andes, the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu whispered stories of civilizations past, while Palccoyo Mountain rewarded our first summit above 5,000 meters with a breathtaking display of multicolored peaks.

On our second journey, we ventured deep into Peru’s highlands, trekking through Huaraz and into the spectacular Huayhuash mountains. An eight-day trek tested our endurance with high-altitude passes, steep ascents, rugged trails, and harsh weather. When the rain finally stopped, the reward was beyond anything we could have imagined. Towering snow-capped peaks pierced the sky, turquoise glacial lakes mirrored the surrounding mountains, and pristine valleys stretched as far as the eye could see.

Peru is a land of extremes and beauty, and visiting twice only deepened our appreciation for its endless diversity.