ahoooy!

i’m planning a solo backpacking trip to peru (july, 12–15 days), mostly staying in hostels, trying to keep it flexible and meet people along the way. wanted to get some advice from people who’ve done something similar.

my main goals:

- prioritize nature (mountains, lakes, landscapes)

- have some solid adventure moments / stories

- mix in culture + food, but not the main focus

important constraints:

- i don’t want to do long multi-day treks (gonna do salkantay next year)

- i’m more into short hikes / day trips (humantay lake, rainbow mountain, etc.)

rough plan so far:

- lima (short stay)

- huacachina (desert + sandboarding)

- cusco as a base

- sacred valley

- machu picchu (thinking of staying overnight nearby)

- day trips from cusco (humantay, rainbow mountain)

questions:

- am i missing any must-see nature spots that fit this style?

- any underrated day trips around cusco that are better than the classic ones?

- hostel recs?