We had no idea how to explore during our first trip to Peru and South America! I had seen hikers posting pictures on Strava, and each of us did our background research on how to prepare through our hiking friends. Machu Picchu involves two distinct components: multi-day trekking routes to reach the base and specific one-way circuits within the citadel itself. Unanimously, everyone recommended the Salkantay Trek! The Salkantay Trek allured us as it is challenging and offers dramatic changes in landscape—Humantay lagoon, glaciers, snow-capped mountains, tropical jungles, coffee farms, and stunning views of Salkantay Peak!