In the Fall of 2017, we had a phone date with our dear friends and found ourselves committing to hiking Machu Picchu. The idea of Peru had come up in past conversation(s) at football games in South Bend, during college reunion weekends and in our group chats… so we decided it was time to make the trip a reality.
If we’re being honest, it was a bit of a process selecting the tour company and trek date. It’s not as easy as you might think (so, plan ahead), as you’re required to go through an agency and the trips fill up quickly in the dry season. Based on a personal connection and a recommendation from a coworker, we settled on a three-day/four-night Alpaca Expedition tour in mid-July.
We booked our flights for July and then basically forgot about the trip until June! Eeeks… We’ve had a busy year and between work and wedding planning, the necessities of a massive four-day hike sort of slipped our minds. Amazon to the rescue!
Fun fact: you need a heck of a lot of supplies for a four day trek. Aside from the obvious – like a Camelbak, a comfy pair of boots, and a solid sunscreen/hat combo – there is also a myriad of other supplies to consider. Here are some to keep in mind if you ever commit to this adventure: head lamp (clutch on your final a.m. hike to the Sun Gate), hand sanitizer (we used this ALL THE TIME), face and body wipes (because… no showers), a kick-ass deodorant (ha!), altitude sickness medication, and Pedialyte packets (to combat dehydration). There’s more – but we won’t drone on… so check this out if you’re interested (see packing list tab).
Fast forward to Friday, July 13 —
With our bags packed and strapped on tight, we left our Manhattan apartment for JFK. A few flights and several cocktails later, Patrick and I landed in Cusco and met up with our friends who came from South Carolina. We were set and ready to explore the ancient Peruvian city which was once the original capital of the country. Stay tuned for more on our first few days in South America!
#TwoforTakeoff
What an expedition! Can’t wait for the next chapter.
Mags whose boots are whose, in the photo of you two looking down the mountain valley from the ledge? The trek of a lifetime looks to be very exciting, can’t wait for the rest of the trip – love Dad! Grandma Rita loves to hear and see the footage of your adventures – thanks for posting the photos/stories.
Mine are on the left and Maggie’s on the right. Stay tuned for more!