Cusco, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountains and more

It is impossible to summarize everything we experienced in and around Cusco in 12 days in a blog. That's why we've picked out some highlights.

Peruvian hospitality: In all previous places, we stayed in simple hostels and our expectations are accordingly low. Here in Cusco, we were able to stay with Carole's Peruvian friend Marco, who owns a hotel, a restaurant, and a travel agency in the city. And we felt like guests at a 5-star hotel in his house. We were pampered with single rooms, a large bathroom, hot water bottles, a generous breakfast buffet, massages, and cooking classes. He showed us his city and allowed us to experience the simple life and learn traditional weaving at a friend's place in the countryside. We were overwhelmed by this hospitality and almost felt guilty because we, as his friends and guests, were not allowed to pay for anything.

Machu Picchu: The visit to the long-forgotten Inca city of Machu Picchu was a highlight of our trip. Before that, we hiked in the impressive mountain landscapes on the 5-day Salkantay Trek and crossed the 4,600 meters above sea level Salkantay Pass in front of the impressive backdrop of the Salkantay Glacier (6,264 meters above sea level). On the subsequent descent, we observed the fascinating change of scenery and finally ended up in the jungle surrounded by banana trees and avocado plants. Bathing in natural hot springs and the adrenaline rush of zip-lining on up to 1km long zip lines over a gorge provided variety. Finally, we climbed to the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu. Each of the 2,000 steps we conquered at 5 a.m. was worth the effort. The ruins are in excellent condition and allowed us to immerse ourselves in the life of the Inca before the Spanish conquest of South America. We climbed another 2,000 steps to enjoy the view from Montaña Machu Picchu. And it was truly breathtaking. Surrounded by green mountains and white glaciers in the distance, the ruins blend perfectly into the landscape. We could hardly believe our luck that we actually had 5 days of beautiful weather in the rainy season. Overwhelmed and tired, we finally returned to Cusco.

Rainbow Mountain: At 3:15 a.m., we were ready at the agreed meeting point and waited for our bus. After the obligatory half-hour delay and a flat tire, we finally started at 4:15 a.m. in the direction of Rainbow Mountain. Strengthened by breakfast in the valley at 4,300 meters above sea level, we started our 3-hour climb to Vinicunca - or Rainbow Mountain - at 5,300 meters above sea level. The extreme altitude made the hike a real challenge. But once again, suffering was rewarded with the incredible colors. The former volcanic area is rich in minerals that create the spectacular colors. Once again, the weather gods were on our side, because when we got back on the bus after the descent and lunch, the sun had disappeared and it started to snow.