Machu Picchu alone makes Peru worth the trip

I'll be honest — I went to Peru primarily to see Machu Picchu, and it delivered beyond what any photo prepares you for. But the surrounding region surprised me just as much. Cusco has a character I didn't anticipate, and wandering without a plan for an afternoon turned out to be one of the highlights.

The food is extraordinary. pisco sour sounds simple but here it's done with real craft. incredible Incan history added another layer to the experience. Spent 5 days and honestly could have used a week more.