Discovering the Enchanting Beauty of Peru

Volunteering in Lima

My Peruvian adventure began in the historical centre of Lima, the vibrant capital city. Opting for a unique travel experience, I decided to volunteer at a charming hostel. This turned out to be a fantastic way to embrace local life. It's also a fantastic way to travel on a budget. In exchange for serving drinks and breakfast, I got free accommodation and food. Besides getting to know the iconic historical centre, I went on to explore two of the best and safest neighbourhoods in Lima; Miraflores and Barranco.

Miraflores is a trendy and upscale district. It has stunning coastal views, beautiful parks and shopping centres. It is definitely a favourite amongst visitors. It is a perfect blend of modernity and history, with impressive cultural attractions and a bustling culinary scene. This is where I tried out Ceviche, which is a traditional Peruvian dish made of fresh raw fish or seafood marinated in citrus juices, typically served with onions, cilantro, and other seasoning.

Barranco is a more bohemian and artistic neighbourhood. It is known for its colourful streets, vibrant nightlife and art scene. Here you can find many art galleries, cosy cafés and lively bars. My suggestion is to try out the local restaurants here, take food with you to-go and eat it down by the ocean. It truly makes for a perfect day!

I made lifelong friends and memories in Lima. Leaving the hostel was undoubtedly difficult. However, I had a whole new batch of adventures ahead!

Travel through Peru safely and conveniently

Peru's diverse landscapes offer a mesmerising panorama, but navigating the routes can be a concern for some travellers. Not to mention, the safety can be an issue in certain places. That is why I used Peru Hop, a travel agency that ensures safety and comfort without compromising on the thrill of exploration. Travelling by bus, accompanied by knowledgeable guides, I enjoyed the freedom to hop off and on again at various stops along the way. In this article I am describing my own trip, however there are many other variations to choose from. This well-organised and secure mode of travel allowed me to focus on the beauty that unfolded before me, while also granting opportunities to interact with locals and fellow adventurers.

Paracas

Our first stop from Lima was Paracas, a small coastal wonderland brimming with wildlife. A morning boat ride offered an up-close encounter with penguins, sea lions, and many different birds. Usually they take you to the Ballestas Island, which is a protected reserve, however, I visited Peru in September, which made the weather conditions not ideal. We went to see other places nearby, and it was not much different. We were already on the road again in the afternoon.

Huacachina

After Paracas, our next stop was Huacachina, a beautiful oasis surrounded by tall sand dunes. Huacachina is not just gorgeous; it's also exciting! The guides provided dune buggy rides and we had a thrilling time racing across the sandy landscapes. But the best part was definitely sandboarding down the dunes, feeling the rush as we slid down the sandy slopes. And to top it off, we were treated to a stunning sunset that painted the sky in so many beautiful colours. Picture this - it's 6 pm, and you're on a massive sand dune, which was shaped by the wind. The sun is setting, and the sky is filled with colours of yellow and red. Down below, there's a beautiful lagoon surrounded by palm trees and charming hotels. This was one of my favourite places on the trip.

Cusco

After Huacachina, I spent the longest time of my life on a bus - 32 hours. This made me regret not taking the plane, but I was warned many times that I shouldn't fly there, because a large difference in the elevation would make me feel sick. However, I didn't mind it as much as we were driving past beautiful mountain scenery where I felt like I was in a movie. This is where we also stopped to check out the famous Nazca lines, however I only saw them super up-close, so the experience was nothing special. We also stopped at the highest point of that trip, which was 4400 metres above sea level and made us feel dizzy just standing there.

Finally, after 32 hours, I made it to Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire. Stepping into Cusco's historic streets, I was instantly transported back in time. The bustling markets, infused with vibrant colours and scents, offered a delightful glimpse into local life. Embracing age-old traditions while celebrating modernity, Cusco effortlessly charmed its way into my heart. My favourite thing were my daily visits to the San Pedro Market, where I tried out different delicious fruits, such as mangoes and granadillas, and the local traditional delicacy ''cuy'', which is a fried guinea pig.

Machu Picchu

No journey through Peru would be complete without going to the crown jewel of Inca civilisation - Machu Picchu. This breathtaking archaeological site, perched high amidst the majestic Andean mountains, was as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself. As I stood in the presence of the iconic ruins, a profound sense of wonder washed over me. Surrounded by llamas and the echoes of a civilisation long gone, I felt humbled and privileged to witness one of the world's most iconic landmarks. Many people hike here on the Inca Trail, however I took a bus up to the ruins, which was still an exhilarating experience. Our guide provided some interesting theories about why Machu Picchu was built, my favourite being that one of the Inca leaders built himself a place for a vacation, but sadly we will never know the true reason.

As my journey through Peru drew to a close, I found myself enriched with memories, captivated by the natural wonders, and deeply touched by the warmth of the Peruvian people. Whether it's the breathtaking landscapes, or the thrill of adventure, Peru will leave a mark on your travelling soul. So, if you're seeking a travel experience that blends exploration, wonder, and a touch of magic, look no further than Peru - a country that invites you to explore its treasures and create lasting memories.