INTRODUCTION: DREAM JOURNEY TO THE LAND OF THE INCAS

Peru – a country with millennia of history where modernity intertwines with the legacy of the mighty Inca Empire. In July 2001, my friend Marcin and I embarked on a journey that forever changed our perception of South America. We began preparations in March, studying numerous sources to best understand this fascinating country.

Guidebooks: Polish vs. International

To our disappointment, Polish guidebooks proved exceptionally limited. Publications about South America and Mrs. Kralewska’s “Peru” book contained only dry lists of monuments and basic information. They lacked depth – detailed descriptions, local insights, or practical travel tips that prove invaluable on the road. In contrast, the English Lonely Planet guide and private travel blogs offered rich information, including little-known historical facts. Did you know modern Peruvians in many regions still speak Quechua – the linguistic heir of the Inca Empire?

Stunning view of Colca Canyon
The breathtaking Colca Canyon

Travel Logistics: Tickets and Best Time to Visit

July and August bring peak flight prices to Peru. We ultimately paid about €850 for roundtrip tickets purchased through a German travel agency. Budget travelers should consider May or September – prices are lower while weather remains pleasant. Interesting fact: While the Andes experience dry season in July, coastal areas see “garúa” – the characteristic mist bringing humidity.

Many adventurers opt for last-minute deals, purchasing tickets days before departure at Berlin travel agencies. However, this can be risky during high season as seats sell quickly. By May, we already faced limited flight options. We ultimately flew Berlin-Lima via Santiago, which proved an interesting experience offering brief exposure to Chilean culture.

Aerial view of Nazca Lines
The mysterious Nazca Lines from above

THE JOURNEY TO PERU: ACROSS CONTINENTS

Our expedition began with a train from Warsaw to Berlin (roundticket about €55). From Tegel Airport, we flew to Madrid where a layover let us admire the blend of modern and Moorish architecture – a preview of the cultural diversity awaiting us in Peru.

The transatlantic flight with LAN Chile proved surprisingly comfortable. Meals were quite tasty, and the in-flight movie selection engaging. Fun fact: Crew primarily spoke Spanish – our first immersion in the language that would accompany us throughout our journey.

After many hours aloft, our feet first touched South American soil in Santiago. Though just a stopover, we immediately felt the continent’s unique atmosphere. The final leg – Santiago to Lima – offered first views of the majestic Andes, previewing the incredible landscapes we’d soon explore.

The journey to Peru isn’t just moving between map points. It’s gradually entering a world where pre-Columbian traditions blend with Spanish colonial heritage, creating a unique cultural mosaic. The trip itself became a fascinating introduction to our Andean adventure.