Brazil & Peru: A Journey Through Colour, Culture & Wonder

This blog is inspired by the incredible trip feedback shared by my clients, Nina and Shaan Ashafq, who recently explored the vibrant heart of Brazil and the mystical landscapes of Peru. Their journey was filled with golden beaches, ancient history, and their reflections capture the spirit of South America beautifully. Thank you for sharing.

Rio de Janeiro:

Nothing prepares you for Rio. One moment you’re wandering a lively street with samba beats in the distance, the next you’re standing barefoot on the soft golden sands of Copacabana Beach. The sea is warm, clear, and welcoming, with no seaweed in sight. Hotels all had visible security and took guest safety seriously. The key is simply not to flaunt valuables. We personally found Rio safe both day and night, with friendly, approachable locals. During the day, the city feels laid back, but in the evening it comes alive with energy.

Must-See Sights:

• Christ the Redeemer – An iconic spot, but incredibly crowded. To beat the rush, go first thing in the morning. Expect long queues (over two hours at times) and a bumpy 25-minute ride up to the statue. Still, it’s worth the effort.
• Sugarloaf Mountain – Spacious and well-organised, with cable cars running constantly, so the wait is minimal. A fantastic place to take in the views.
• Selarón Steps – A vibrant, colourful spot in the heart of Rio. Always buzzing with tourists and local market stalls selling crafts. A brilliant photo opportunity and a glimpse into local life.

Cuzco:

Wow – just wow! Cuzco is one of those places that no photo or video can ever do justice. Walking the cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time, with surprises around every corner: from beautiful churches to llamas on the streets, and cosy coffee shops with balcony views. The altitude hits immediately, leaving us lightheaded and short of breath, especially at night. Luckily, after two days, things improved. Hotels here are rustic yet modern, with thoughtful touches like herbal teas for altitude sickness and even hot water bottles for the beds!

Machu Picchu:

The Vistadome train in Peru is one of the most scenic ways to travel through the Sacred Valley on the way to Machu Picchu. The team make sure you have a great experience and provides you with drinks and snacks. The closest town is called Aguas Calientes, and I would recommend you come and stay here for a day before you climb Machu Picchu. Boutique hotels, artisan shops, and restaurants lined the streets, with the river rushing through. It’s the perfect base before tackling one of the world’s wonders. The climb itself wasn’t too challenging thanks to knowledgeable guides who set a steady pace. Altitude wasn’t as tough as in Cuzco.

It’s a long day if done in one go, involving minibuses, trains, and another bus up to the site. Crowds are heavy, but standing in front of Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience and absolutely worth it.

Lima:

Modern and cosmopolitan, and great for two days to relax before flying home. Our hotel had a popular rooftop bar that filled with guests and locals each evening for sunsets, cocktails, and live DJs. By day, the rooftop pool was a peaceful escape.

We visited Huacachina, a sand oasis village famous for buggies and sandboarding. While picturesque, the 9–10 hour round trip from Lima felt too long for what it offered. A better experience was the Tacama vineyard, only 50 minutes away, where we sampled strong Pisco and local wines in a gorgeous setting.

Packing Essentials:

• Lightweight clothes for Rio’s warmth.
• Layers for Peru – days can be hot, nights very cold.
• Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones and uneven paths.
• Sunscreen, hat, and reusable water bottle.

Budgeting:

Food is excellent value in both countries – from street snacks in Cuzco to cocktails in Lima. Brazil is slightly pricier, but still affordable compared to Europe.

Final Reflections:

From Rio’s golden beaches to Peru’s ancient citadels, Nina and Shaan’s journey was one of contrasts and discoveries. Rio showed them joy, rhythm, and life. Cuzco and Machu Picchu humbled them with history. Lima wrapped it up with modern flair.

Their advice? Don’t let the scare stories put you off. South America thrives on tourism, and its people are some of the warmest and hardest-working you’ll ever meet. Go with an open heart, and you’ll be richly rewarded.