Machu Picchu: The Travel Adventure Your 20-Year-Old Self Never Imagined

What happens when you celebrate your 50th birthday by eating guinea pig and conquering one of the world's seven wonders?

Join hosts Heide and Nicky on Untethered and Wander Wise as they share their incredible Machu Picchu journey – proving your most epic adventures happen AFTER 45, not before.

Why This Episode Will Change How You Think About Travel:

🏔️ The emotional moment that brought tears at 8,000 feet above sea level
🚂 Insider secrets for booking tickets, choosing circuits, and avoiding tourist traps
🦙 Honest talk about altitude sickness, bathroom strategies, and unexpected side effects
🍽️ The guinea pig story you won't believe (complete with head-on presentation!)
✈️ Real costs and practical tips for the $1,500 adventure of a lifetime

Perfect For:

• Women over 45 who think adventure days are behind them
• Anyone planning a Machu Picchu trip (booking mistakes could cost you!)
• Solo female travelers seeking inspiration and practical advice
• Bucket list dreamers ready to turn "someday" into "this year"

What You'll Learn:

• Why you MUST book Machu Picchu tickets months in advance
• The secret ticket that gets you away from crowds
• How to handle altitude sickness like a pro
• The circuit system that could make or break your visit
• Why the train route is perfect for non-trekkers
• Essential packing tips and cultural insights

This isn't just a travel story – it's proof that age is just a number and your most transformative adventures are still ahead of you.

Listen now and discover why standing where ancient spirits still live might change your relationship with what's possible.

Machu Picchu travel guide, female travel over 45, Peru adventure, altitude sickness tips, Sacred Valley, women's travel podcast, midlife adventures, bucket list travel

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Transcript

Machu Picchu: The Travel Adventure Your 20-Year-Old Self Never Imagined

Episode Summary

Today's episode is your complete Machu Picchu travel guide, packed with insider tips for visiting Peru's most iconic destination. Whether you're planning solo female travel to South America, looking for Machu Picchu booking tips, or wondering how to handle altitude sickness in Cusco, this episode covers everything you need to know.

We're sharing Nicky's incredible 50th birthday adventure to Machu Picchu - from Sacred Valley accommodations and Inca Rail train experiences to the best Machu Picchu tours for women over 45. You'll discover essential Peru travel tips, learn about Machu Picchu circuits and entry requirements, and get honest advice about altitude acclimatization and cultural experiences, including that unforgettable guinea pig tasting adventure.

If Machu Picchu is on your bucket list, this comprehensive travel guide will help you plan the perfect Peru adventure, avoid common tourist mistakes, and prove that your most epic travels happen after 45. Let's dive into this life-changing journey to one of the world's seven wonders.

Edited Transcript

[00:00:05] Welcome back to Untethered and Wander Wise, the podcast for adventurous women who refuse to let age define their wanderlust. I'm Heide Brandis. And I'm Nicky Omohundro. And today we're sharing something incredibly special, my 50th birthday adventure to Machu Picchu. Can you believe we already did it, Heidi?

[00:00:24] I still get goosebumps thinking about it. But before we dive into our incredible journey, let's talk about why Machu Picchu should be on every woman's bucket list, especially if you're over 45. This isn't just about checking off a wonder of the world, it's about proving to yourself that your most epic adventures are still ahead of you.

[00:00:46] Absolutely. And ladies, we learned so much during the planning of our trip that we wish we had known beforehand. Today we're sharing all those insider tips from booking tickets months in advance to dealing with altitude sickness, plus some unexpected culinary adventures, including my first taste of guinea pig.

[00:01:10] Yes. We definitely have to tell that story, but first, let's set the scene. Nicky, when you decided you wanted to celebrate your 50th at Machu Picchu, what made you choose this particular adventure? Actually, the first thing I saw was I was on Instagram and I saw this reel for this like Dr. Seuss looking Airbnb at Lake Titicaca. And it was one of those things, it was pastels. It looked like snail shells, and there were llamas roaming everywhere. So I was like, that would be so much fun. And Machu Picchu had always been on a bucket list because it's one of the wonders of the world. And I've actually never been to South America, so I started researching and I found a great deal to Peru itself on Exotica.

[00:02:00] I love that. Yeah. We chose the Exotica Sacred Land of the Incas tour, which was fantastic for first timers like us. Let me tell our listeners a little bit about what's included. So the Sacred Land of the Incas tour through Exoticca tour number 7452 for anyone taking notes, this was perfect because it took care of all the logistics, which let me tell you can be overwhelming when you're trying to coordinate trains, tickets and accommodations in multiple cities.

[00:02:33] Yes, and that's one of the things I really loved. So the tour started in Lima. We flew in from Oklahoma City via Atlanta, Miami, and then to Lima. And then from Lima we moved through Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes, and of course culminated with Machu Picchu. But the absolute gem was our stay in Hotel Agustos Urubamba in the Sacred Valley.

[00:03:01] Heidi, describe the setting for our listeners because it was amazing. Yeah, so picture this, you're nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley, surrounded by the towering Andean peaks. Staying in this charming hotel that perfectly blends modern comfort with traditional Peruvian architecture. The views from our room were breathtaking.

[00:03:24] Rolling green hills, ancient terrace fields and that incredible mountain air that just makes you feel alive and a little lightheaded. We went to the Sacred Valley the day that we flew into Cusco. Yeah, and Cusco is, I believe, like 12,000 feet. It's high.

[00:03:43] So we came from sea level to 12,000 feet and immediately a lot of people that were on the same tour started to get a little lightheaded, got a headache. We were good because we took medication, we pre-gamed, we called the doctor, got medication and started as soon as we got to Lima. Plus we did the coca tea and I also did a herbal remedy that helps with oxygen absorption.

[00:04:05] Yeah. And we had to get up that morning super early, I think it was like 1:30 in the morning to catch the earliest flight to Cusco. So by the time we got to this beautiful little resort of Hotel Agustos Urubama  in the Sacred Valley, we were pretty wiped out. So between the high altitude and lack of sleep. We went in pigged out on some Peruvian pizza in town, and then promptly went back to our hotel room and took a four and a half hour nap.

[00:04:34] Yeah, woke up, ate dinner, and then went to sleep for the entire night, and then went back to bed. But what was nice is this location in the Sacred Valley was extremely strategic. It was perfectly positioned for our Machu Picchu day trip. And I should mention, this was all coordinated through Exotica.

[00:04:50] But from Ollantaytambo, we took the Inca Rail train to Aguas Calientes, which is the village at the base of Machu Picchu. That train ride ladies is an experience in itself. Before we get to the train though, we have to talk about our culinary adventure in the village, Nicky. Tell them about the cuy, the cuy cuy cuy.

[00:05:13] Guinea pig in Spanish is cuy, or at least in Peru it's called cuy because that's the sound that they make. So that's what they call them. For those of you that don't know, it's a delicacy in Peru. So I will have to admit, when Heidi showed me a picture of it and I had already said yes, I'll try it because I'll try anything twice, sometimes three times just to make sure I like it, especially with food.

[00:05:35] She let me know that it is traditionally served with a head on it. Yep. I'm like, I said I'd try it. So I said I, yeah. So when the cuy arrived at the table. It looked exactly like what it was. It was opened clean splayed, deep fried with a head on it. Oh yes. The presentation was something to say the least.

[00:06:01] It was served whole deep fried, very crispy, and then they flattened it. Yes, we have amazing video of this, but how would you describe the taste, Nicky? Honestly, it tastes a lot like a cross between a chicken and a rabbit. Slightly gamey, but not unpleasant. It was very much like a very fatty, dark meat chicken.

[00:06:26] But the real challenge was the psychological aspect. But you know what? I was so glad that I did it. At 50, I decided that my mantra would be say yes to new things, and that's definitely what it was. And that's such important advice to our listeners, solo female travelers, especially those of us over 45.

[00:06:50] Sometimes get stuck in our comfort zones, which is understandable. But part of the magic of travel is pushing those boundaries. Whether it's trying new foods like guinea pig taking on physical challenges or just being open to unexpected experiences. And I will say where we had lunch, you had this trout ceviche and it was so good.

[00:07:12] It was amazing. And all over Peru, you can find ceviche in most seafood restaurants. And that was nice because it had big chunks. Yes. Oh, it was delicious. Yeah. And I'm a ceviche fan. I will never turn down a ceviche. And Peru is famous for ceviche. Yes. Especially in Lima, where it's right there on the Pacific and.

[00:07:34] Yeah, we'll get to food. The food was definitely good in Peru, definitely in most cases. Now, let's talk about the practical stuff, because this is crucial. There are several ways to experience Machu Picchu and understanding your options is really important for choosing which is right for you. Exactly. We did the train and bus combination, which is perfect for women who want to experience Machu Picchu without the physical demands of multi-day trekking.

[00:08:04] But let's break down all the options. Okay? So first, there's the classic Inca Trail. That's the famous four day trek that arrives at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. It's incredible from what I've been told and from the pictures I've seen, but it requires some serious physical preparation.

[00:08:21] And advance booking. We're talking like six months in advance if you're wanting to go during peak season, and then you have alternative treks like the Salkantay or Lares trails. These are less crowded, but also physically demanding. The Lares Trail Trek is actually called the Cultural Trek because you interact more with the local communities on that.

[00:08:51] Which I think one day I would love to go do that. Oh, yeah. That's definitely still on the list. On the list. So for those who want a taste of trekking without the full commitment, there's a short Inca trail that's just two days long. You still get that magical arrival through the Sun Gate, but so much more manageable.

[00:09:08] I could see us doing that one. Okay. So we have two trips in our future. Yes, we do. And then there's what we did, which is the train route. You take either a Peru Rail or Inca Rail from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, then a bus up to Machu Picchu. It's very comfortable. It's scenic and accessible for all fitness levels.

[00:09:30] Yeah. I think it's important to mention too, that you cannot drive from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. No. You can only access it through hiking or this bus system that literally does switchbacks up the mountain. But here's also the most important thing, ladies, I can't stress this enough. You must book your Machu Picchu tickets in advance.

[00:09:52] This isn't a figure it out when you get there type of situation. Yeah, that's absolutely right. We booked ours about two months ahead. Well, it was booked through, so they actually purchased the tickets for us. But especially during peak season, which is May through September, you should book your entry and tours at Machu Picchu months in advance.

[00:10:16] And here's something we learned that was really fascinating. Yes, it was the circuit system, and this was new to me and I actually didn't realize it until we got to Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu operates on a circuit system with timed entry slots. You get a one hour window to enter and they technically, you're supposed to stay for only four hours. And although that wasn't strictly enforced when we were there.

[00:10:34] Yeah, and there are four different circuits, and this is where you need to pay attention. Only circuits one and two give you those classic postcard views of Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu Mountain in the background.

[00:10:55] Circuits three and four are on the lower level, and they don't access those iconic viewpoints. Mm-hmm. And we almost made a rookie mistake here. When you see signs for superior platform or inferior platform, you must choose the superior platform first to get those classic views. And here's the kicker, it's a one-way system.

[00:11:19] So if you go the wrong way, you can't backtrack. And pro tip from our research. If you can only buy one ticket, make it the Inca Bridge ticket. It costs about the same as general entry. It comes with access to circuit one or two, but it also includes this beautiful, quiet side trail that hardly anyone visits.

[00:11:38] It's like having a secret pathway from the crowds. But we had a tour guide that was booked through Exotica for us. Yes. Which was extremely helpful. They took care of all the tickets, all of the management and the timing, because I could. It's, it was tricky and I've seen pictures of people waiting for hours.

[00:11:59] Yeah. Because it's one of those things where we got on the train, we had exactly an hour before we had to get on the bus, which is first come, first serve, and then you basically are waiting in line to get on the next bus to go up. So there's a lot of working parts to it. As much as I love logistics. It was fantastic to let someone else deal with it.

[00:12:19] Oh God, yes and there were actually people waiting on the side trying to get tickets to Machu Picchu and you knew they weren't going to. No, I mean, we heard stories about people who were in Aguas Calientes for two, three days in a row just waiting to get tickets because they didn't book in advance.

[00:12:36] So we cannot stress that enough. Please buy your tickets in advance. To make it easier on everybody involved. Yes. And too, and I learned during our tour with the tour guide that they only allow 5,200 people access per day. Yeah. And that was post COVID.

[00:12:52] And Machu Picchu would get very crowded. And I like the fact that they cap it at 5,200 because there were a lot of people there. But you didn't feel crowded in. Yes. And we, our entry time was 3:00 PM Yeah. So that was the perfect time for us. So let's backtrack. Let's go back to the actual day.

[00:13:11] We woke up early in Ollantaytambo to catch the train in Ollantaytambo. The train ride on Inca Rail was absolutely magical. So there's picture windows that showcase the changing landscape as you work your way towards Machu Picchu. We chose Standard Expedition Train, which was perfectly comfortable though.

[00:13:36] You can upgrade to the Vistadome for more panoramic windows, and the scenery just gets more and more dramatic as you go on. You're following the Urubamba River through these narrow canyons with steep mountainsides covered in lush vegetation, it felt like you were traveling to another world.

[00:13:57] When we arrived in Aguas Calientes, the excitement was palpable. This little town exists solely because of Machu Picchu and it's tucked in this dramatic canyon setting with river rushing through the middle and these incredible limestone cliffs, towering everywhere, and tons of little shops. Mm-hmm. If you're worried about getting souvenirs and stuff, don't worry.

[00:14:23] You're going to have a lot to choose from. Yes. And same thing with dining options. But then came the bus ride to Machu Picchu itself. Now, we've heard some scary stories about this being terrifying, but honestly, it wasn't that bad. Yes, you're winding mountain road with all the drop-offs and switchbacks, but the buses are well maintained and the drivers are professional.

[00:14:47] The anticipation during that 25 minute bus ride was incredible. You're climbing higher and higher and getting glimpses of ancient terraces, and then suddenly you arrive at the entrance and a crowd of people. Then before you enter the site properly, you can really feel the energy of this place. It's really something.

[00:15:10] Electric about it. But I will say before you actually enter Machu Picchu pay to go to the bathroom because there are no bathrooms inside Machu Picchu. Yeah. Yeah. So, and you do need a sol, I think it was like five soles. Yeah. It was like a dollar in US dollars. But, yeah, definitely go to the bathroom before you enter Machu Picchu.

[00:15:29] Then when we walked through those gates and got our first full view of Machu Picchu, Nicky, how do you even describe that moment? You know, Heidi, it was exactly what I expected. I was expecting to be impressed, but I wasn't quite prepared for the emotional impact standing there, looking at those perfectly preserved Inca city perched on that mountain ridge with Huayna Picchu rising behind it. Like some ancient guardian I, I actually teared up. I think part of what makes it so powerful is the setting. It's not just the architecture though, that's incredible.

[00:16:15] It's the way it sits in harmony with these dramatic peaks. How the terraces seem to flow naturally with mountainside contours. And we lucked out with the weather, our tour guide told us that Machu Picchu is often shrouded in mist. But we had this crystal clear day. It was a little cloudy overhead, but visibility was perfect.

[00:16:37] Every detail was sharp. The intricate stone work, the ancient. The distant peaks, the way the light played across the terraces was magical. The sense of reverence was overwhelming for me. I mean, you're walking through spaces that were sacred to the Inca 500 years ago, and somehow that spiritual energy is still there.

[00:16:59] We spent hours just wandering, sitting quietly in different spots, taking photos, trying to absorb it all. And what struck me most was the engineering brilliance. Those massive stones fit together so precisely without mortar designed to withstand earthquakes. The agricultural terraces prevented erosion and the sophisticated water management system.

[00:17:24] This wasn't just a city, it was a marvel of sustainable design. Correct me if I'm wrong, but they chose Machu Picchu because of the four springs that feed the water system there. Yes. It took the water from the mountain through these irrigation channels.

[00:17:44] I mean, it was all very sophisticated. Yeah, what surprised me too is it took a hundred years for them to construct Machu Picchu and it was really an agricultural community, but they only lived there for 35 years. Yeah. And that had to do with, the Inca Empire. So Cusco, which was capital of the Incas, had been overrun by the Spanish.

[00:18:05] The Spanish came in and they destroyed anything Inca, so they sent runners to Machu Picchu to warn them. And said, abandon the city, which they did. And the Spanish never did find Machu Picchu. Yeah. And they're still actually discovering more of Machu Picchu in the jungles. So it's amazing because our guide told us that we're sitting there looking down at the jungle, and he is like, there's even more down there.

[00:18:32] It's an ongoing excavation of the site. And what's amazing too is we're talking about architecture. I believe 80 or 85% of the site is original. It's not been reconstructed. If it's original to what the Incas had done. Yeah. There's like 5% that's been reconstructed. And that was mainly for like walkways.

[00:18:54] There was like a guard hut that actually had a new thatched roof. Yeah. But then they had just a little bit of reconstruction in. Yeah. I mean, it's so authentic. Mm-hmm. I mean, when you go to Machu Picchu, you are looking at what it looked like when it was built and when people lived there. And I just mind blowing, there's a reason why this is a wonder of the world.

[00:19:16] Mm-hmm. It's amazing. Yeah. I wish my house was as well constructed. Yeah. Yeah. They don't make them like they used to, sister. No, they don't. So. Let's talk about something super important for our listeners, altitude and health considerations. This is especially crucial for women over 45 who might be dealing with this for the first time.

[00:19:37] Cusco sits at 11,150 feet above sea level, which is seriously high. When we first arrived, I could definitely feel it. I was a little short of breath and just feeling a little tired. Yeah, and we had the medication to help us. So we didn't have it as bad as some people, but the good news is that Machu Picchu itself is actually lower than Cusco.

[00:20:02] It's at about 7,900 feet. So if you can handle a couple days in Cusco, Machu Picchu will feel easier, but you absolutely need to plan for acclimatization. That's right. We arrived in Cusco two days before Machu Picchu visit, which was perfect that first day. Like we mentioned earlier, we took it super easy. We went for a gentle walk around the city.

[00:20:29] Actually, we need to backtrack. We didn't spend it in Cusco. We arrived in Cusco two days before Machu Picchu, which was perfect. We landed in the Cusco Airport and then made it down to the Sacred Valley to where our hotel was, and that first day we took it super easy. We only walked around that little town just to grab lunch and then back to our hotel.

[00:20:51] We drank lots of water, no alcohol. Four hour nap dinner and then back to bed for an early bedtime, and coca tea became our best friend. Every hotel offers it and it really does help, so don't be shy about asking for it. The locals have been using coca leaves for altitude sickness for centuries.

[00:21:13] Unfortunately though you can't bring it back to the states. No. Not allowed. No, you can't not allowed. No. Allowed. Yes. So, and some people use Diamox, which is a prescription altitude sickness medication. I know. I had the generic version of it. I did too. And it worked wonders. It definitely helped me.

[00:21:32] Yeah. So if you're concerned, definitely talk to your doctor before travel. We're not doctors, we're just telling you what we used. But side effects can include frequent urination and a tingling sensation in your fingers and toes. But let me just tell you, you're drinking enough water, you're going to be peeing anyway.

[00:21:49] Another interesting fact and might be TMI, but one thing we figured out with high altitude, it will make you very gassy. Yes, dear God. Oh my God, we are gassy. So you know how sometimes when you go to a higher elevation, you have a bag of chips with you and it blows up? Or if you're in an airplane, it blows up.

[00:22:12] Uh-huh, imagine your body at 12,000 feet. Yeah. So you're going to get that kind of swelling in your gut and everything expands and it has to go somewhere. Yeah. It usually comes out as a fart. Yes. Or as a burp. Yeah. Yeah. So, so be aware of that. Yes. Try to limit your soda or carbonated beverage for the two days before you go up that high.

[00:22:36] Yeah. For altitude it's best to arrive early to acclimatize to that elevation. Stay hydrated. Drink more water than you think you need. Avoid alcohol the first few days. Or if you do drink, just one drink. Light meals and listen to your body. If you feel really unwell, like severe headache, nausea, difficulty breathing, you need to descend to a lower altitude ASAP. Yes, there are some serious health concerns. For some people, yes. And I know on a trip that I did years ago to Pikes Peak in Colorado, we had taken the cog railway up and several people had some issues, but they didn't say anything. They actually passed out when they reached the peak.

[00:23:23] Oh my gosh. Yeah. Their altitude sickness was that bad. So altitude sickness is not a joke, and definitely take it easy. Your hotel will also typically have oxygen on hand too. Oh yeah. Which can definitely help. But don't let altitude concerns scare you off. Yes, it's real, and yes, you need to respect it, but with proper preparation, most people just adjust just fine.

[00:23:49] I'm 50. I'm not in marathon shape. Although I did do a lot more cardio at the gym for the months leading up to it. But I didn't have any serious problems. I was just tired for a couple of days. So let's talk about Peru as a destination for solo female travelers and women like us who are over 45.

[00:24:08] Even though we've traveled together, you and I, we met several other women on our tour and some solo women on our tour. Peru feels very safe for female travelers, especially if we're going on an organized tour or staying in the main tourist areas. The tourism infrastructure is well developed and people are generally very helpful and welcoming.

[00:24:32] The key like always is preparation and common sense. Book reputable accommodations. Keep your group tour guide's contact information handy, and don't be afraid to ask hotel staff for recommendations. Right. And I will say I did have my Google Translate handy, and that did come in extremely useful. Oh yeah.

[00:24:52] Many, many times. But one thing I loved was how empowering this trip felt. At 50, I climbed ancient ruins, tried food that. I could hear the sound it made when it was alive, navigated foreign transportation systems and proved to myself yet again that my adventure years are far from over. And there's something special about Peru that seems to attract adventurous women of all ages.

[00:25:18] We met solo travelers in their sixties and seventies, in their twenties, in their thirties, and all of them were out there living their best lives. It's inspiring. It was, and the practical tip is invest in good travel insurance, not just medical coverage, but trip cancellation insurance too.

[00:25:38] Weather, it can affect flights and trains and you don't want to lose the money you've invested in this trip of a lifetime. Yeah. We have a great podcast that we did with Insured Nomads. Go look that up. Because it has tons of great tips on travel insurance, how to get travel insurance all the benefits of having travel insurance.

[00:25:59] Go check that one out if you've never really looked into getting travel insurance.

[00:26:03] Let's talk about the nuts and bolts. What should women expect to invest in this adventure? Our Exotica tour was an excellent value. It included flights from the US, all of our accommodations, most meals, transportation, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

[00:26:21] We paid about 1500 per person for eight days, which I thought was fantastic. Yeah, it was a great deal. But that didn't include tips. Some of the lunches we had to buy on our own. Souvenirs obviously, and the optional activities. Because we did a couple other tours that were an added expense.

[00:26:41] Budget extra for train upgrades if that's what you want to do. Definitely budget for tips. The porters and guides work really hard. And I will say tipping is a little bit different there than it is in the US so definitely Google. What's standard tipping is in Peru?

[00:26:57] Well, anywhere you go. Yeah, definitely, because it's not always the same, but speaking of which, bring cash. You can pay in US dollars, but having some Peruvian soles is helpful for tips and small purchases. When we went, it was about three soles to $1. ATMs are available in major cities, but less common in smaller towns.

[00:27:20] You can find money changing houses pretty frequently. And then to, they're like random people in a lot of these places that will just change your money. It's not advised because the, their exchange rate isn't always the best. Yeah. I just stuck with ATMs. And I find that works for me no matter where I'm traveling.

[00:27:39] But another big tip is pack smart. Layers are essential. It can be chilly early in the mornings, and then hot as balls by midday. So good walking shoes are crucial. Even if you're not trekking, you want a day pack for Machu Picchu. Sun protection, definitely. And a refillable water bottle. One thing that surprised me is you can't bring food into Machu Picchu.

[00:28:07] We talked about there's no toilets on the inside of the site, so use the facilities at the entrance before you go in, and plan accordingly. The train has luggage restrictions too. Only carry on size bags. So if you're staying overnight in Aguas Calientes. Pack light for that portion of your trip.

[00:28:25] And I will say our flight to Peru was the first time I'd ever encountered a luggage embargo. Oh, that's right. So we flew Delta and I get free bags on Delta with my credit card and my status. And so I just automatically packed a checked bag. And then when I was getting ready to check in, they're like, checked bags aren't allowed due to what they called a luggage embargo.

[00:28:51] Yeah, I never come across that either. And when you texted me, you're like, oh my God, we can't check bags. We have to get everything in our carry-ons. So we packed a little bit lighter, but then on the trip back, we could check our bags back home.

[00:29:04] Yeah, so that's, so I think it was a cargo thing. Probably. Yeah. So double check that. Because sometimes stuff like that happens, yes. But also leave room in your luggage to go alpaca wool shopping. Oh my God. Because you're in Peru and it's like if you're in Ireland, you buy wool and you're in Peru, you buy alpaca.

[00:29:24] And boy did we buy alpaca. We bought quality pieces that are going to last a long time. Cusco is fantastic and some of the higher end shops offer tax free. You'll pay tax at the shop, but then when you go to the airport, you drop your receipts into the box and you'll get the, basically your VAT or your tax back, which is fantastic.

[00:29:49] So, but you know, Heidi, as we're talking about all these practical tips and details, I keep coming back to the emotional impact of this trip. It wasn't just about checking Machu Picchu off a bucket list. There's something seriously profound about standing in a place that's both ancient and eternal,

[00:30:10] Especially when you're celebrating a life milestone. I mean, how did it feel for you to celebrate your 50th birthday there? Well, it felt like a promise to myself, A promise that this new decade would be about saying yes to adventures not letting age or fear hold me back.

[00:30:28] When I was standing on those terraces, looking out over the Andes, I felt connected to myself and to something larger than myself that I had in years. I think that's what makes travel so transformative, especially for women who are entering new life phases. It's not just about seeing new places, it's about seeing yourself in new ways.

[00:30:50] Exactly. And for our listeners who might be hesitating, whether it's because of age, physical concerns, or just feeling like I'm not a trekking type of person. This trip proved that Machu Picchu is accessible if you plan smart. The train and bus route means you don't need to be an athlete. Yes, there's walking and there's some stairs, but nothing that requires special training.

[00:31:14] It's more about mental preparation and having realistic expectations. That's a perfect way to put it. So before we wrap up, let's give our listeners our top actionable tips. First and most important, book your Machu Picchu tickets as soon as you have travel dates. Don't wait. Arrive in Cusco at least two days before your Machu Picchu visit just to get used to the altitude.

[00:31:38] Use that time to explore this beautiful city. Maybe go buy some alpaca wool and get excited about your adventure. And third, choose your circuit carefully. When you buy your tickets, you'll figure out which one you get. But try and get circuits one and two for those classic views. And seriously consider the Inca Bridge ticket for a quieter experience.

[00:32:01] Pack layers, bring sun protection. And don't forget your passport. You'll need your passport at Machu Picchu and for train travel. You need insect repellent. Because those little biting boogers are, they're real. Yeah. But try the local food. I'm not talking insects, but, uh, try the local food.

[00:32:22] If cuy isn't your thing, Peru has amazing cuisine like we talked about, the fresh ceviche, the quinoa dishes and amazing potatoes. They have what, 4,000 varieties of potatoes in Peru. That's where all potatoes come from, by the way. From the Andes. Yeah. So it's a foodie paradise. So try the food. Stay flexible with the weather.

[00:32:43] Mountain weather is unpredictable and even if you get some mist or clouds, Machu Picchu is magical in any condition. Yes, we're not going to melt if we get wet. Yeah, despite what our ex-husbands say. And finally,

Show Notes:

Exoticca Sacred Land of the Incas Tour:
Official Machu Picchu tickets: machupicchu.gob.pe
Agustos Urubamba Hotel: Sacred Valley accommodation
Inca Rail: incarail.com