At 3,812 m (12,500 ft) Lake Titicaca is one of the highest lakes in the world it is also the largest lake in South America by volume of water. Situated on the border of Bolivia and Peru it is surrounded by the breathtaking Andes. A good place to explore the lake from is the town of Puno which has several great backpacker hostels. From there you can take boat excursions to see the lake and visit the islands. The lake is famous for the Uros which are a group of floating islands made from reeds on which people live. The islands were originally meant to make escape easy in case of attack and many of them feature reed watchtowers. Check out this very unique location.

Need a place to stay while acclamating to the altitude in Cusco? The Hostal Sweet Daybreak is owned by a backpacker couple so they know what a hostel should be. It has private, group and dorm rooms and boasts an amazing vista. The vibe is super-chill and you’ll be able to hang out with other travellers and tell stories or plan future trips. It’s located in San Blas which is a tranquil neighborhood that is still walking distance to bars and cafes. Want to check it out? Book it at minihostel.com as well as other hostels all around South America.

Are you hardly a mountaineer but want to brag to your friends about your mountaineering skills?  When you’re traveling through Arequipa, you can tackle one of the easiest 6,000 meter mountains in the world.  It’s called Volcan Chachani and is just a hair over the coveted altitude mark where you’re considered a “real” climber.

While we don’t suggest getting off the plane at sea level and heading for the hills (unless you want a week-long headache) it is a climb that can be tackled in only two days.  The first day you climb halfway, sleep at about 16,500 feet, and the next day you summit at 19,961 feet, and you’re back in Arequipa before dinner!  Then you can get online and show your jealous friends all your pics from the top of the world!

MiniHostels – book almost every single hostel through these guys. I love the site and the free reservations.

Lonelyplanet – scoff if you will, but they’ve got the best info

Frommers – another guide book

Time Out – yet, another guide book.

JustPeru.org – a helpful travel site

Peru.gov – the peruvian government’s home page.

Buen Viaje!

What do you do when a tourist attraction in Peru begins ruining the foundation of what so many tourists are eager to see? This is the main problem behind what Peruvians are saddened over when it comes to Machu Picchu. This Incan empire brings in droves of tourists each day to see what many can hardly fathom about this lost civilization. However, the influx of so many people and the devlopment of so many commercial aspects to Machu Picchu is ruining the historical landscape of this gorgeous view. Its a huge dilema and a concerning one at that.

This hostel, like other great hostels, is a MiniHostel.

At the foot of the Cordillera Blanca mountains, Huaraz is a great base for tourists looking to explore and begin expeditions. La Casa de Maruja is a hostel for those visitors looking to enjoy the beautiful nature and quiet side of Huaraz. With large, carpeted rooms, each with its own bathroom and guaranteed hot water, La Casa de Maruja is great for traveling backpackers. The employees give great advice on tourist adventures and point visitors to their next journey. The hostel is located just five minutes from Cruce de Palmira. Discover more about La Casa de Maruja at MiniHostels.

Had a hot, sandy day in Ica? The best place to cool off and relax is El Huacachinero Hostel. For starters, El Huacachinero has an amazing swimming pool located at the base of the sand dunes in Huacachinero. Furthermore, the hostel and the staff are dedicated to travelers needs and are focused on giving all guests the comfort and attention they need. The hostel also offers an in house tourist agency and routinely schedules dune buggy tours and sand boarding excursions for guests. El Huacachinero offers quality service for a great price! Visit El Huacachinero on their website at http://www.elhuacachinero.com

Find other amazing hostels like El Huacachinero at MiniHostels!

In the capital of the Lambayeque region in Peru, Chiclayo is definitly one of the most important cities for Peru. Chiclayo also goes by the names The Capital of Friendship and the Pearl of the North. The Mochi culture left their stamp in Chiclayo and now the city lies along the Moche Route, a series of cities with amazing archaeological sites. In Chiclayo there is an important wari archaeological site. Just three blocks from the Plaza is a friendly and cozy hostel. Hospedaje San Lucas is owned by a very friendly woman who welcomes all her backpacker guests. This hostel is perfect for all backpackers looking for a budget stay. Hot water, internet, and a book exchange welcome all visitors. A rooftop room has a great view, and even better knowing that a single room is only $5US. Make your reservation for Chiclayo now at MiniHostels.com.