I first visited Machu Picchu 16 years ago but still remember every step I took and every magical stone I saw that was perfectly inserted by the Incas hundreds of years ago. The memories of that magical visit to the Lost City of the Incas are so magical that it feels like I was just there yesterday. But I almost didn't make it because i planned the trip to the exact day and minute with no extra cushion allowed for any logistical challenges that might arise. And sure enough, I arrived at Lima's International Airport, early as always, only to be told that I had been moved to a flight later that afternoon. They said they sent me an email, but of course that didn't happen. The problem was that would not work because I had my tour of Cusco planned that afternoon and would be on an early train the next day headed for Aguas Calientes, gateway to Machu Picchu. So I politely but emphatically let the gate agent know that I needed to be on that plane one way or another. Ultimately I made it on the plane, but it was an important lesson learned that I have heeded every day when designing Private, Tailor-made Packages to Latin America for my valued clients. Always expect the unexpected and be patient when challenges pop up.

Changes due to over tourism, destruction and vandalism of the monuments, and excessive littering have resulted in Peru's Ministry of Culture and Tourism to limit the number of visitors to Machu Picchu to 2,500 per day. There are also only two time slots available - 06:00 to 12:00 and 12:00 to 17:30. Combine that with the fact that the local airlines are not always reliable and mud slides have sidelined the famous Peru Rail Line from Cusco to Aguas Calientes on various occasions, and it can be a feat just to get there. I therefore always design our Private, Tailor-made Packages for my valued clients to include two half day tours of Machu Picchu just in case there are any logistical problems getting to Aguas Calientes in time for the first tour..

PERU TRAVEL ADVICE:

Don't Miss other Spectacular Destinations in Peru

It goes without saying that no trip to Peru would be complete without visiting the Lost City of the Incas. But often travelers are so focused on Machu Picchu they miss out on the spectacular scenery and wide variety of destinations that Peru has to offer. For example, most travelers will pass through Cusco to take the train to Aguas Calientes. But it's worth spending at least a couple of days to explore its own ruins and even take day tours out to the Sacred Valley, famous for gorgeous scenery and wellness retreats!

You might also be tempted to skip over Lima thinking it's just another capital city in South America that's not worthy of your time. But with its well-preserved colonial center and the fact that Lima has evolved in one of the world's most renowned culinary destinations with Michelin Star restaurants and simple seaside ceviche and seafood restaurants sitting side by side, you will definitely go back for seconds and still be tempted for more!.

Peru also boasts some of the most picturesque and fascinating landscapes of any country in South America. Iquitos offers as authentic an Amazon Adventure as you will find anywhere from fishing for Piranhas, spotting the rare Pink Dolphin, tracking down enormous Anacondas with adventurous and very skilled locals, and spending an afternoon eating and learning to shoot poison darts with traditional indigenous people.

For its part, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world and is home to the captivating Uros people that have made their homes and communities on floating islands and move around on huge rafts constructed of strong reeds that grown along the lakeshore. Spending a morning or afternoon learning about and getting to know these ultra friendly locals is nothing short of magical!

The list of incredible destinations and experiences throughout Peru goes on with Arequipa and the awesome Colca Canyon, the mysterious Nazca Lines, and pristine national parks and serene natural lakes with crystal clear water. There is literally something for everyone. So Contact Scott for ideas and to design your own Private, Tailor-made Package!