Our Routes in Peru: Discovering the Amazon & Sacred Valley with Giuliano
When Travel Specialist Giuliano Varela set off on his first journey to Peru, he knew he was heading somewhere remarkable. His route would take him from the lively capital of Lima to the depths of the Amazon, before continuing into the Sacred Valley and onwards to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. Travelling with Virgin Atlantic from London to JFK and then connecting with LATAM to Lima, Giuliano continued with LATAM for all internal flights, allowing him to explore Peru’s landscapes smoothly and efficiently. Let's dive into Our Routes in Peru: Discovering the Amazon & Sacred Valley with Giuliano.
With this being his very first visit to the country, he arrived curious and excited to discover as much as possible. What followed was a journey filled with rainforest waterways, community encounters, incredible food and moments of pure wonder. Below, Giuliano reflects on the highlights of his adventure.
What was your favourite location on the trip?
The whole journey was remarkable, but the Amazon, especially the Pacaya Samiria Reserve, felt incredibly special. Travelling along the Marañón River, watching pink dolphins, walking through the jungle and visiting Cocama Cocamilla communities offered a unique and immersive experience. Swimming in the Ucayali River was a lifelong dream fulfilled. The sunrises and sunsets set a new standard for beauty, and exploring by river cruise created a peaceful way to wake up each day in a new setting.
What was your most memorable moment?
Although Machu Picchu was unforgettable, the moment that touched me most was meeting the children at the Sol y Luna Home. Their welcome was full of warmth and joy. Speaking Spanish helped me connect with them easily, but everyone in the group shared a wonderful experience. It is a memory I will treasure for a long time.
What was your best holiday experience or excursion?
My guide at Machu Picchu was exceptional. Exploring with someone who truly understands the site brings the whole place to life. He shared the history, culture and stories in such an engaging way, and he also took care of all the logistics and ticketing. It made the whole visit smooth and enjoyable.
What would you recommend packing or preparing for?
We were lucky with the weather as it was warmer than usual. In the Amazon, proper trekking trousers are essential for protection on jungle trails. I also recommend taking vitamin B12 before the trip. I did not get bitten once, while my colleagues needed insect repellent throughout the day. Taking a few extra items of clothing is also helpful.
What was your favourite food or drink on the trip?
I tried an Amazonian gin and tonic in Lima on a rooftop and it completely changed my opinion of gin. Lima is an excellent place to start a trip in Peru because it offers a strong sense of the country’s history and an outstanding food scene. As a vegan, I had no issues at all and enjoyed brilliant meals across the city.
Which photo or video from your trip is your favourite?
A colleague filmed me swimming butterfly in the Amazon. The dark, amber coloured water felt heavy because of the low oxygen levels, and the warmth gave the sensation of a natural hot tub. Even as a Brazilian used to warm water, it felt incredibly unique and unforgettable.
How would you sum up your trip in three words?
Puerto llamado Cancion
Giuliano’s journey through Peru shows just how rewarding it can be to explore a country shaped by ancient history, rainforest life and vibrant modern culture. From peaceful river mornings in the Amazon to the energy of Lima and the timeless beauty of the Sacred Valley, Peru offers an experience that feels both enriching and unforgettable.
If you are dreaming of your own adventure to the Amazon & Sacred Valley, our Travel Specialists are here to help. We will design a holiday tailored entirely to you, ensuring every detail captures the spirit of Latin America at its very best. Get in touch with the Latin Routes team to start planning your trip today.
