Machu Picchu Adventure with Apus Peru
Machu Picchu is the most famous and highly visited tourist attraction in Peru. But it is not easily reached, involving a plane, a car, a train, and a bus. The ticketing system was complicated, with limited timed entry tickets for a dozen different routes, sold via a website prone to crashing. Amy wanted to join us (hooray!), but she had limited time off from work, which meant less room for unexpected travel delays. I enjoy planning our travel myself, but with all these complexities, it was clearly time to get professional help.
I learned about Apus Peru through ChatGPT. I wanted a reputable tour operator with a strong track record and a commitment to social responsibility. ChatGPT recommended three companies, and I selected Apus Peru. They were responsive and communicated well. They were flexible, readily adapting the itinerary to fit my requests. And the price, including private guide and drivers, 4-star hotels, most meals, train tickets, and airport transfers, was more than fair at about $400 per person per day.
The itinerary was a mix of historical sites and local culture, timed to help us acclimate to the altitude. The 7-day tour was called “Best of Cusco,” but it really covered the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco. I added a second day in Machu Picchu Pueblo in lieu of the day trip to Rainbow Mountain. Three of the seven days involved significant travel, and having our own guide and drivers made it much easier.
Day 1: Cusco to Sacred Valley
Day 2: Ancient Sites and Traditions and People in the Sacred Valley
Day 4: Machu Picchu Part 1
Day 5: Machu Picchu Part 2
Day 6: Machu Picchu Pueblo to Cusco
Day 7: Historic Cusco
It was a fantastic trip, and discovering Machu Picchu with Amy was extra-special!
Kudos to Apus Peru, our planner Lorena, our guide Pilar, and our drivers Ever and Valerio! Everyone was friendly, punctual, knowledgeable, and focused on our comfort and convenience. The tour was everything I had hoped for and more. Our family will always treasure the memories from this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
