Cusco - Colonial Beauty and the gateway to an Incan Legend.

Cusco is an incredibly beautiful city full of life and exitement. It's typically colonial squares and bustling streets are set against an awesome backdrop of the Andes and make it an incredible hub for  South Americas finest treasure; Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu is now easily accessible to anyone who wishes to see it, and trust me, it doesn't disappoint. I was absolutely taken back by the sheer size and unbelievable setting of the stunning Inca capital; it truly plays on the imagination. 

There are now a million and one ways you can get to these ore-inspiring ruins. Most people take the traditional Inca Trail (book WAY in advance, at least 3 months), following in the steps of the Incas themselves. To me the price does not reflect the experience at about £600, however it is the classic trail. Another option is the Salkantay trek, a hard five day hike where snowcapped mountains collide with lush tropical rain forests. This is a little cheaper than the Inca Trail and if you are into hiking is the one for you. For those who want a different experience and/or didn't book or have the money for the other trails, then the Jungle Trek is a great option. We opted for this and had the most incredible four days. Way cheaper, costing around £200, this included white water rafting (not great), downhill mountain biking (amazing), zip lining (the largest in the southern hemisphere) and everything else (tour guide, food, accommodation, transport, Machu Picchu entry etc). I couldn't recommend it more.

Travellers will notice that Cusco is somewhat upmarket compared to the rest of the continent due to the influx of tourists who have a little more money to burn. However this does not mean prices for you are more expensive, only that the town has a slightly more glossy feel, with cleaner streets and swankier bars, making it all the more charismatic and fun. The food is top notch and if you want to pay a little more it can be something really special. The bars are lively and welcoming and the night clubs (well, all two of them) are great fun till the early hours.

Hostel: Loci for a party - great old colonial building with amazing food and entertainment every night. Just be prepared to be out of breath, the altitude creeps up on you. There are loads of great boutique style hostels about, just take your pick.