Peru.

Landed in Cusco convinced we'd get last-minute Inca Trail permits and got laughed at politely by three different agencies. The guide's Salkantay pitch saved the trip. Went with Machu Picchu Team on the 5-day, groups of 12 so it felt personal, and the crystal dome at Soraypampa was the highlight, better views than my Airbnb back home. Mentioned Aussies In at booking, USD 15 off, no hoops.

Did Salkantay with Machu Picchu Team based on the guide's write-up. The pass day is brutal, no way around that, but nights one and two make up for it. Dome accommodation was the sell for me and it delivered. Would have blown the same money on a wet tent otherwise. Ended up on Circuit 2 like the guide says, which is the only circuit that shows you the postcard shot from above.

Was an Inca Trail or bust head until I read this. The Salkantay breakdown changed our whole approach, half the cost, no permit headache, and you actually walk into Machu Picchu on day five. Best decision we made and we never would've considered it without this guide.

The altitude playbook alone is worth fifteen bucks. We spent two nights in the Sacred Valley first instead of flying straight to Cusco, and we were the only ones in our group not horizontal on day one. Honestly should be the first thing anyone reads before going.

Skimmed the Lima section thinking we'd just transit through. Ended up staying four nights based on the food picks and it was easily the best eating week of my life. Wouldn't have set foot in half those restaurants without this.

Properly thorough. Knocked off half a star wishing for more on Huaraz and the Cordillera Blanca beyond a brief mention, but the Cusco-to-Machu-Picchu chapter and the yellow fever cert advice sorted me out in twenty minutes flat. Easy buy.