This is my complete 12-day solo journey across Peru. A country of ancient Inca cities, glacier-fed lakes, and rainbow-striped mountains. From crossing the Salkantay Pass at 15,190 ft beneath a 20,000 ft peak, to walking into Machu Picchu on my own two feet after five days on the trail.

Built from real experience on the road, this guide includes every step, cost, route, link, and lesson learned along the way to help you plan your own unforgettable trip, with no guide or tour group required.

Includes:

• Full 12-day itinerary with mileage, elevation & stage breakdowns for the ~43 mi Salkantay Trek

• My recorded AllTrails route plus linked locations for every stop

• Accommodation, restaurants, attractions & local recommendations, from Cusco to Aguas Calientes

• Day-by-day budget breakdowns in USD & soles, transport logistics & pre-trip planning

• Machu Picchu Circuit 2, Machu Picchu Mountain & the Pallay Punchu Rainbow Mountain day trip

• Practical advice on altitude, weather, gear, safety & trekking solo, plus a full packing checklist

Watch the full trip video on YouTube.