We don't really care how you look when you visit Machu Picchu. But odds are in your favor that the local conditions will improve your chances of getting in touch with your skinny, healthy self.

Consider these factors: Did you know that by traveling to Peru, the first thing that happens is that your metabolism gets a kick? When the plane lands in Cusco (11,000 ft/3400 m) your body instantly starts adapting by increasing your rate of respiration, which signals your metabolism to speed up your BMR (basal metabolic rate.)

Another factor affecting your health and energy level is that you have access to healthy food. Fast food and junk food are not as available in Cusco as in western countries. You can find fast food in Lima, but not so much elsewhere. Cusco is the main gateway to Machu Picchu and offers incredible healthy dining opportunities.

Andean food is wholesome and fresh and even "french fries" are made by hand from real potatoes. The staples of the Peruvian diet are chicken, potatoes (about 4000 varieties), quinoa (a high-protein grain) and plenty of fresh fruits and veggies from the jungle.

Finally, traveling in Peru involves a lot of walking. Much more than travelers from industrialized nations are used to. Your activity increases and so does the muscle tone and the calorie-burning benefits.

Traveling to Peru can improve your fitness and enhance your life. Adios Adventure Travel is not ready to set up high-altitude "fat farms," but we can take advantage of the natural factors that occur at high-altitude destinations when you're ready to arrange your trip of a lifetime.