Travel Blog
Expert tips, destination guides, and stories from our adventures across South America. Get inspired for your next journey.

Travel Insurance for US residents: What you need to know
(Some of this may apply to people who live in countries other than the United States.) Unless you're traveling to a country that requires foreigners to show proof of medical insurance when entering, most independent travelers are not required to buy insurance. Some tour operators require medical and evacuation insuranc

Due to Coronavirus Machu Picchu Tickets and Inca Trail Permits can be Changed
In 2020 Peruvian authorities allowed visitors to get refunds or change their Machu Picchu entry tickets purchased for entry in 2020. And tour operators could change Inca Trail permits purchased in 2020. But what about refunds and ticket or permit changes in case of strikes or other events out of anyone's control? I've

A Taste of Corn Beer in Cusco, Peru: the Ultimate Foodie Adventure
It's called Chicha de Jora, and consumption of authentic Inca corn beer is on the rise as foodies of all ages seek out hidden gastronomic experiences still available in Peru today. The production of home-made small batches of chicha beer is one of the most genuine examples of ancient Peruvian culture alive today. Brewe

Valicha: And A Tale of My Mother's Famed Chicha Brewery in the Andes Mountains
The Qechua Culture Literary Project is a collection of Andean fairy tales from the Qechua culture, which will be translated into Spanish and English for publication. The books will serve two purposes. The primary objective is to capture the verbal stories passed down from generation to generation in Qechua communities.

What you Need to Know About the Cost of Inca Trail Hikes
Hiking the world renowned Inca Trail is considered one of the most cherished bucket list experiences for hikers of all ages and backgrounds. Every year, about 60,000 lucky hikers land one of the imited permits only available through licensed tour operators. Most of these hikers book their hikes online then travel to Pe

Are Children Banned from Entering Machu Picchu?
In case you see a headline indicating that children are banned from entering Machu Picchu, it only applies to entry for local tourists in November 2020 due to local covid restrictions.

5 Pro Tips for Organizing the Perfect Trip to Machu Picchu
Don't let tight connections and poor planning ruin your trip to Machu Picchu. We're Machu Picchu travel experts and here's our list of top tips to help you make the most of your trip to the famous Inca citadel.

Why You Need To Travel With A Thermometer: TSA Checking Temperatures
Finally, we're happy to report that Peru and Ecuador have ended their states of emergency and eliminated all covid restrictions. Foreigners with valid passports can enter as before the start of the pandemic. Chile and Bolivia are still officially asking for proof of covid vaccines or PCR tests upon entry. This is subje

Guide to Cusco Restaurants & Cooking Classes
Whether you want to dine in exquisite restaurants, or explore the culture of the Andes by creating your own dishes, Cusco has many choices to enhance your gastronimic experiences on the way to Machu Picchu. Here is a list of favorites along with our tips to help you choose the right one for the right occasion.
Qosqo Tales
Our local guides are Andean natives with a passion for bringing their Qechua culture to life. Here are three Andean legends they translated so you can connect with their roots before experiencing the culture for yourself.
Children of the Sun
The Story of the Origin of the People of the Andes
Valicha: A Tale of My Mother's Famed Chicha Brewery in the Andes Mountains
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