Laurel Thompson - Peru Travel Writer

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Laurel Thompson

Laurel ThompsonAuthor

Author, blogger, adventurer, musician — I have divided the past couple of decades between Peru and the United States. I believe in the value of storytelling — I love sharing my stories and listening to others' tales. I enjoy making meaning through creative story and song. Half of my family is Peruvian. My grandson says I have "el corazón Peruano" — a Peruvian heart.

Get in touch with me:

Laurel ThompsonAuthor

Author, blogger, adventurer, musician — I have divided the past couple of decades between Peru and the United States. I believe in the value of storytelling — I love sharing my stories and listening to others' tales. I enjoy making meaning through creative story and song. Half of my family is Peruvian. My grandson says I have "el corazón Peruano" — a Peruvian heart.

Get in touch with me:

Author's Articles

Inca archaeological site surrounded by misty mountains along the Inca Trail.

private inca trail tours: the advantages of a custom trek to machu picchuHiking the Inca Trail is a bucket-list experience for many travelers headed to Peru, but not every trekker wants to share the experience with strangers. A private Inca Trail tour lets you choose your own departure date, set your own pace, and hike with a guide and crew dedicated entirely to your group. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, a family, or a small group of friends, going private lets you tailor the trip to your preferences.

image of peru food tour: your guide to the best food tours in lima

peru food tour: your guide to the best food tours in limaLima has quietly become one of the world's great food cities, and a Peru food tour will show you why in the most delicious way possible. Rather than picking a single restaurant and hoping for the best, a guided food tour strings together markets, family-run kitchens, street carts, and celebrated dining rooms into a single route that allows you to sample a variety of offerings from all of Peru’s climatic regions: coast, mountains, and jungle. For travelers planning an adventure trip to Peru, spending a few hours eating your way through Lima is a delightfully low-effort way to get oriented before heading further into the country, and it offers a cultural introduction that few museums or monuments can match.

Couple enjoying a warm drink with Andean mountain views during a honeymoon in Peru.

honeymoon in peru: the best romantic destinations for couplesPeru is one of South America's most compelling honeymoon destinations, combining the magic of Machu Picchu with colonial cities, high-altitude lakes, and the incomparable Amazon rainforest. A honeymoon in Peru can be as adventurous or as relaxed as a couple desires, moving from candlelit dinners on a balcony overlooking Cusco's cobblestone streets to sunrise views over the Andes; from exploring traditional Andean culture to quiet canoe rides through the Amazon jungle. For couples who want a trip built around discovery rather than just downtime, Peru offers a rare mix of culture, landscapes, nature, and romance in a single itinerary.

Arequipa Cathedral overlooking the Plaza de Armas with El Misti volcano in the background.

things to do in arequipa, peru: the complete guideArequipa, Peru, is a marvelous destination in its own right. True, it doesn't get the same hype as Cusco and Machu Picchu, but spend a few days here, and you'll see why so many travelers end up calling it their favorite city in Peru. Built almost entirely from white volcanic sillar stone and framed by three volcanoes, Arequipa has earned its nickname, the “White City,” honestly. It's a place where colonial churches, a 16th-century convent city, and some of Peru's best food sit less than an hour from one of the deepest canyons on Earth: Colca Canyon. This guide lists the best things to do in Arequipa, Peru — from visiting the historic center and major viewpoints to enjoying local dishes and the day trips that make this region a must for adventure travelers exploring southern Peru.

Hikers trekking through a high-altitude mountain landscape in the Peruvian Andes

the complete guide to peruvian hike culture, history, and destinationsFor over five centuries, the trails winding through Peru's Andes and cloud forests have connected communities, sacred sites, and trade routes across some of the most dramatic terrain on Earth. Today, a Peruvian hike offers far more than a physical challenge — it's a journey through Inca history, high-altitude ecosystems, and living Andean culture. From the stone-paved sections of the original Inca road system, where you can literally follow the footsteps of the ancients, to modern multi-day treks through glacial valleys, Peru's trails trace centuries of human movement across mountains, valleys, and forests. This guide covers where that hiking tradition came from, the destinations that define it today, and what a first-time trekker should know before setting out.

Machu Picchu archaeological site surrounded by forested mountains in Cusco, Peru

machu picchu tickets explained: everything you need to know before you bookMachu Picchu is one of the most tightly managed archaeological sites in the world, and for good reason. As it has grown increasingly popular over the past several decades, with close to 1.5 million visitors per year, site erosion and damage to the delicate Inca stonework have become major concerns. Therefore, officials put regulations in place to protect the site while still allowing travelers to enjoy it. Visitors are no longer permitted to roam freely about the site but must choose from among three major circuits and several add-ons, including climbing the mountains surrounding the site. With daily visitor caps, timed entries, and several circuit routes to choose from, it's easy to book the wrong ticket without realizing it until you're standing at the gate. This guide breaks down exactly how Machu Picchu tickets work in 2026, from circuit differences to pricing, discounts, and the booking mistakes that trip up first-time travelers.

Palm trees surrounding a reflective lagoon in the Peruvian Amazon rainforest

things to do in the amazon rainforestPeru's stretch of the Amazon basin is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, offering visitors a world teeming with vitality. Pulsing with an entirely different rhythm than the mountains of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, every square inch of the Amazon exudes life. Whether you fly into Puerto Maldonado in the south or Iquitos in the north, the jungle rewards visitors with towering canopy views, close encounters with wildlife, and a meandering, river-paced way of exploring. This guide covers the best things to do in the Amazon rainforest, when to go, and how to plan an itinerary that matches your sense of adventure.

Terraced farmland on Taquile Island overlooking Lake Titicaca, Peru

taquile island, lake titicaca: a complete guide to peru's weaving islandSurrounded by the blue waters of sacred Lake Titicaca at nearly 4,000 meters above sea level, Taquile Island is one of the lake's most rewarding stops—a place where Quechua traditions, hand-woven textiles, and dramatic mountain views come together. Unlike the floating reed islands of Uros, Taquile is a solid landmass with terraced hillsides, stone archways, and a community whose weaving practices have been recognized by UNESCO. For travelers building a Lake Titicaca adventure itinerary, Taquile offers a rare combination of traditional textile culture, high-altitude hiking, and splendid lakeside vistas.

Amantani Island rising from the waters of Lake Titicaca, Peru.

amantani island: a complete guide to lake titicaca's hidden gemSacred Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake, runs through parts of both Peru and Bolivia. It is home to several unique cultures and a variety of unusual flora and fauna. The Uros People use totora reeds to build and reinforce their “floating islands,” which can be moved if necessary. The Island of Taquile is home to a culture where the men knit and the women weave. And Island of Amantani is home to ten Quechua-speaking communities that embrace and uphold traditional Andean island ways.

Sunset over the Peruvian Amazon rainforest.

amazon rainforest birds: species, habitats, and where to spot themThe Amazon rainforest is home to one of the most diverse bird populations on the planet. Across Peru's lowland jungle alone, travelers can encounter everything from scarlet macaws flashing raucously through the canopy to harpy eagles, among the world's most powerful raptors. For folks planning a nature adventure in Peru, learning about Amazon rainforest birds is a first step toward understanding just how alive this ecosystem really is, and how to experience it firsthand.

Moss-covered trees along the Hidden Valleys trail in Peru’s Andean Cloud Forest.

andean cloud forest: peru's most fragile and biodiverse ecosystemSomewhere between the snowy peaks of the Andes and the dense humidity of the Amazon lies a mysterious world enveloped in mist. Here, exquisite orchids bloom on tree trunks, hummingbirds dart through fog, and the elusive spectacled bear moves silently amidst the undergrowth. This is the Andean Cloud Forest — one of the richest, most fragile, and least understood ecosystems on Earth, and one of the most rewarding places you can visit on your Peru journey. For adventure travelers heading to Peru, the cloud forest offers a quiet surprise between major attractions. It's the misty corridor you pass through on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the birdwatcher's paradise near Manu National Park, or a standalone expedition into one of the planet's greatest biodiversity hotspots. This guide explains what makes the Andean Cloud Forest so unique, where to find it, and how to experience it responsibly.

Twelve-Angled Stone fitted into an Inca wall in Cusco, Peru.

the twelve-angled stone: cusco's perfect inca masterpieceTucked into a narrow cobblestone street steps from Cusco's Plaza de Armas is an Inca stone that has puzzled engineers, delighted photographers, and drawn travelers from around the world for centuries. The Twelve-Angled Stone isn't the biggest monument in Cusco, but it might be the most talked-about — a single block of rock so precisely cut into its wall that not even a blade of grass fits between the joints. If you're planning an adventure tour through Peru, this is a significant stop to include on your walking route whilst in Cusco. Here's everything you need to know before you go.

Hiker trekking at high altitude in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco.

altitude sickness cusco: what travelers need to knowCusco, the “Navel of the World,” was the ancient capital of the Inca. This vibrant must-visit city boasts cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and original Inca stonework, making it one of South America's most rewarding destinations- but it also sits higher than almost any city you are likely to visit. Before you spend time here, it's important to become familiar with the facts about soroche, or altitude sickness: what it is, who it affects, and how to keep it from derailing your adventure to Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Puka Pukara archaeological complex in the hills outside Cusco, Peru.

puka pukara: the red fortress of the inca empireJust outside Cusco, set atop a hill along the highway to the Sacred Valley, a rustic set of stone walls stands watch over the valley below. Puka Pukara, meaning "Red Fortress" in Quechua, is a lesser-visited but historically rich stop on the classic Cusco City Tour circuit, offering adventure travelers a quiet window into Inca military construction.

Artesonraju mountain rising above the Cordillera Blanca in Peru.

artesonraju: the legendary peak behind the paramount pictures logoSoaring above Peru's Cordillera Blanca, Artesonraju is one of the most photographed mountains in the Andes and, for millions of moviegoers, one of the most recognizable, even if they've never heard its name. This guide covers everything you need to know about Artesonraju mountain: where it sits, how it earned its Hollywood fame, what it takes to climb it, and how to see it for yourself on your journey to Artesonraju in Peru.

Plaza San Blas in Cusco with colonial buildings and surrounding Andean mountains.

san blas cusco: cusco's bohemian artisan quarterSet atop several flights of Spanish colonial steps on the hillside above Cusco's historic center, San Blas is the city's most intriguing and artistic corner. Replete with little shops, cafés, and the iconic “Paccha” cascading fountain, the San Blas neighborhood is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed colonial houses, and generations-old artisan workshops. Known as “the balcony of Cusco” for its sweeping rooftop views, San Blas Cusco blends Inca foundations, colonial architecture, and a living tradition of woodcarving, ceramics, and religious art. Whether you're seeking the best viewpoint over Cusco, hunting for authentic souvenirs, or simply want to wander somewhere with genuine local charm, San Blas Cusco Peru rewards every visitor willing to climb those stone steps.

Glaciated mountain landscape in Huascarán National Park, Peru

huascarán national park: exploring peru's glaciers, mountains & alpine lakesFew protected areas on Earth can match Huascarán National Park for sheer variety — towering mountain vistas, rare flora and fauna, pristine glacial lakes, and ancient ruins, each more astounding than the last. Set in the Cordillera Blanca, the world's highest tropical mountain range, the park is a main attraction for trekkers, climbers, and travelers seeking towering snowy giants and remote sapphire lakes. If you're planning an adventure trip to Peru’s mountains, here's what to know before you go.

Mountaineer standing on the snowy summit of Pisco Mountain with panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca, Peru.

pisco mountain: climbing the “balcony of the cordillera blanca” in peruAmong the most beloved climbs in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca mountain range, Pisco Mountain rises to 5,752 meters (18,871 ft) above sea level inside Huascarán National Park. Accessible to fit beginners yet rewarding for experienced alpinists, it is known as the “Balcony of the Cordillera Blanca” for its panoramic summit view across some of the highest and most dramatic peaks in the Americas, including Huascarán, Peru’s highest mountain; Artesonraju, the peak that inspired the Paramount Pictures logo; and the pyramid-shaped giant Chacraraju, among others.

Colorful handicrafts, textiles, hats, and alpaca souvenirs displayed inside San Pedro Market in Cusco.

san pedro market cusco: exploring the oldest and most authentic market in cuscoWhile Cusco is best known for its Inca heritage, some of its most memorable experiences happen far from the archaeological sites. San Pedro Market is where locals shop, eat, and gather every day, offering visitors a chance to discover traditional flavors, colorful produce, handmade crafts, and everyday Andean life. In this guide, you'll find what to see, what to eat, practical tips, and how to make the most of your visit.

Laguna Churup with turquoise glacial waters surrounded by granite cliffs in Huascarán National Park near Huaraz, Peru.

laguna churup: hiking to the turquoise “seven colors lake” near huarazPerched high in Peru’s spectacular Cordillera Blanca, Laguna Churup Peru is one of the most rewarding day hikes near Huaraz. Famous for its brilliant turquoise and variably-hued waters, dramatic mountain scenery, and a thrilling rope-assisted climbing section, this lake attracts hikers from around the world seeking an unforgettable adventure in the Peruvian Andes. Located within the famous Huascarán National Park, Laguna Churup sits at approximately 4,450 meters (14,600 feet) above sea level and offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, granite cliffs, and serene alpine waters.

Pedestrian bridge and riverside walkway in Aguas Calientes, surrounded by lush vegetation and mountain scenery on the way to Machu Picchu.

aguas calientes to machu picchu: transportation, costs & travel tipsMachu Picchu is one of the most iconic destinations in South America, and for most travelers, the journey to the citadel begins in Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. Located at the foot of the mountain, this small town serves as the main gateway to the archaeological site and offers the final connection before entering the Inca citadel. Whether you choose to take the shuttle bus or hike to the entrance, understanding the available transportation options, costs, and logistics can help you make the most of your visit. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about traveling from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, including practical tips to help you plan a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Laguna Parón with turquoise glacial waters framed by rocky slopes and snow-capped peaks in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca

laguna paron: exploring the largest glacial lake in the cordillera blancaNestled within Huascarán National Park in Peru’s Ancash Region, Laguna Parón is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in the Cordillera Blanca. Famous for its striking turquoise waters surrounded by towering mountain peaks, Laguna Parón is the largest natural freshwater reservoir in the Cordillera Blanca and a favorite destination for travelers visiting Huaraz. Encircled by some of Peru’s most iconic snow-capped mountains, Laguna Parón offers a combination of easy access, breathtaking views, and excellent hiking opportunities. This spectacular lake can be visited by car in only one day. Laguna Parón is generally accessed from the lovely mountain town of Caraz, known for its artisanal local dairies and handcrafted products; especially manjar blanco, a sweet, caramelized dairy dessert similar to dulce de leche. This region is famous for its cheeses, yogurts, and butters from cows that graze among the Callejón de Huaylas pastures of the Cordillera Blanca.

View of the Machu Picchu archaeological site under clear skies, with stone structures, agricultural terraces, and green lawns during the dry season.

best time to hike machu picchu: weather, seasons & when to goHiking to Machu Picchu is one of the world’s great adventures, and choosing the right time of year to go will majorly influence your trek. Variables like weather, trail conditions, crowds, and scenery impact your overall experience. The best time to hike Machu Picchu will depend on the type of experience you want, whether that means clear mountain views, fewer visitors, lush green landscapes, or ideal trekking conditions. All of these factors change depending on the time of year you go. In general, the dry season from May through September is considered the best time to hike Machu Picchu, especially for iconic routes like the Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek. However, the rainy season also offers advantages, including quieter trails, pure air, and vibrant scenery. This guide explains the weather patterns, monthly differences, and trail conditions so you can plan your Peru trekking adventure with confidence.

Local Andean herder with llamas walking beneath the snow-covered Ausangate Mountain in the Peruvian Andes.

ausangate trek: complete guide to tours and routes on cusco’s highest mountainThe Ausangate Trek is one of Peru’s most spectacular high-altitude adventures. Encircling the sacred Apu Ausangate Mountain, this five-day remote hike takes travelers through vistas of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, colorful mountain landscapes, and isolated Andean communities deeply rooted in traditional culture. Unlike the more crowded Inca Trail, the Ausangate Trek offers solitude, dramatic alpine scenery, and an authentic connection with the Andes. For travelers seeking a challenging trekking experience beyond Machu Picchu, the Ausangate route delivers some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in South America. In this guide, you’ll learn about Ausangate trek routes, altitude, difficulty, what to expect on the trail, and how to prepare for this unforgettable journey.

Wide view of Humantay Lake in Peru with turquoise glacial water reflecting the snow-covered mountains of the Vilcabamba range.

humantay lake peru: a complete guide to cusco’s turquoise mountain lagoonHumantay Lake Peru is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in the Peruvian Andes. Known for its vivid turquoise waters and dramatic mountain scenery, the lake sits high in the Cusco region at approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level. Travelers from around the world visit this glacial lagoon for its unforgettable hiking experience, pristine turquoise waters, and stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Located along the route to the famous Salkantay Trek, Humantay Lake has become a popular day trip from Cusco for travelers seeking adventure, photography opportunities, and a connection with the Andes. Whether you are planning a guided tour or considering the hike independently, understanding the altitude, trail conditions, and best time to visit can help you prepare for an enjoyable experience.

Circular agricultural terraces at Moray in the Sacred Valley near Cusco, Peru

moray cusco: the inca circular terraces of the sacred valleyTucked away in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Moray Cusco is one of Peru’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Known for its enormous circular spiraling terraces carved into natural depressions in the earth, Moray intrigues archaeologists, historians, and travelers alike. Unlike the better-known ruins of Machu Picchu or Ollantaytambo, Moray stands out for its elegant beauty and unusual design. Today, visitors exploring the Sacred Valley often include Moray as part of a full-day excursion alongside the nearby Maras Salt Mines. Whether you are interested in Inca engineering, Andean agriculture, or simply spectacular landscapes, Moray offers a unique glimpse into the innovation of the Inca civilization.

Wide view of the archaeological site of Chinchero with Inca stone walls, open grassy plaza, and Andean mountains under a clear blue sky.

chinchero: discover the most beautiful andean village in the sacred valleyChinchero Peru, “Birthplace of the Rainbow,” is one of the most fascinating destinations in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Known for its traditional weaving centers, Inca ruins, colonial church, and breathtaking Andean landscapes, this small village offers travelers an authentic cultural experience just outside of Cusco. Located high in the Andes between Cusco and Urubamba, Chinchero combines living traditions with remarkable history. Travelers visiting the Sacred Valley often stop here to explore archaeological remains, learn about ancestral textile techniques, and experience local Andean culture that continues to thrive today. Whether you are planning a cultural day trip or adding it to a larger Peru itinerary, Chinchero deserves a place on your list.

Terraced salt evaporation ponds at the Maras Salt Mines in Peru’s Sacred Valley

tour: how to visit cusco’s ancient salt terracesThe Maras Salt Mines, also known as the Salineras de Maras, are one of the most unique and visually striking sites in Peru’s Sacred Valley. Located an hour and change by car from Cusco, Maras is where thousands of salt pools cascade down a hillside, creating a patchwork of ponds in white, gold, and earthy tones. A Maras Salt Mines tour offers travelers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, making it a popular addition to any Cusco itinerary. Whether you’re visiting as a half-day trip or combining it with nearby attractions like Moray (recommended, as they are only twenty minutes apart), this guide will help you understand what to expect and how to plan your visit.

Stone terraces and structures at Machu Picchu partially covered by clouds

cost to travel to machu picchu: complete budget guide for visitorsPlanning a visit to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu involves quite a few moving parts. Understanding the full picture helps avoid surprises. This guide focuses primarily on the cost to travel to Machu Picchu via the classic train route, the most common way people visit, while also including a clear comparison with the Inca Trail for context.

Glacial lake with turquoise water below snow-capped peaks in the Peruvian Andes, a typical high-altitude trekking destination.

trip to peru cost: complete budget guide for planning your travelPlanning a trip to Peru is an exciting step toward exploring one of South America’s most diverse destinations, and one of the first questions travelers ask is: how much does a trip to Peru cost? The answer depends largely on your travel style, itinerary, and the type of experiences you choose. This guide breaks down the average trip to Peru cost, key expenses, and practical tips to help you plan efficiently. All estimates focus on land costs (within Peru only), with ranges aligned to real tour and multi-day trek pricing offered by trek operators, such as Explorandes.

Laurel Thompson - Peru Travel Writer