Embracing the Unexpected: Lessons from my Peru and Inca Trail Adventure

Traveling solo as a female in South America was an incredible adventure filled with valuable lessons. Here are some key takeaways from my journey along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu:

1. Expect the Unexpected

I planned to visit Peru during the dry season and I imagined my arrival at Machu Picchu to be bathed in sunlight, a perfect reward after three days and three nights of hiking the Inca Trail. However, Mother Nature had other plans. I began my hike at 3:30 am on the fourth day in the pouring rain, and upon arrival, it was still raining and cloudy. I was drenched, exhausted, and hungry. Initially, I felt disappointed that the view was not what I had envisioned. But this experience taught me to embrace the unexpected and savor every moment, regardless of the conditions.

2. Stand Your Ground with Tour Operators

Booking my Inca Trail experience was a nightmare. I paid over a thousand dollars only to be met with disorganization, dishonesty, and poor customer service from the operator. The operators in Peru typically require a deposit before planning your trip, which means you can only evaluate their service after payment. By the time I realized my mistake, it was too late, and securing another permit was challenging due to the daily limits for the Inca Trail. 

The camping equipment was substandard, the guide was inexperienced, and the food was mediocre. I hoped to learn about Inca history and culture, but the guide provided little information. Later, another guide helped me check with Indecopi, which ensures that consumers are treated fairly and that their rights are protected in Cusco, and I discovered I had been overcharged. I negotiated a partial refund with the operator, understanding the importance of not being taken advantage of, especially as a solo female traveler. 

3. Prepare for Long Travel Times

Coming from a tiny country like Singapore, where traveling from one end to the other takes just 30 minutes, I was unprepared for the long travel times in Peru. One of my bus rides from Ica to Arequipa took 13 hours, similar to my flight from Singapore to Amsterdam. Long travel times are common in Peru, but the buses were comfortable, with inclined seats and onboard toilets. It was helpful to stock up with snacks and drinks along with netflix movies for the rides.

4. Embrace the Culture and Food

Peru was my first destination in South America, so I was very open to trying anything authentic and local when it came to food, like Cuy (guinea pig) and Alpaca, although I ordered the smallest possible portion served by the restaurants. I enjoyed the vibrant and colorful culture represented by many different communities. I was lucky to be in Cusco during their celebrations for the solstice, so there were dancing and fireworks almost every day during my stay in Cusco. I was also impressed by the deep-rooted history, not just of the Incas but also of the indigenous people.

Final Thoughts

Traveling solo in South America was an eye-opening experience. It taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of standing up for myself. Despite the challenges, I cherished every moment and came away with unforgettable memories and valuable lessons.