Jay & I wanted to do something big to celebrate 10 years as husband & wife.
Our Wedding Day – April 25, 2009
We initially thought we’d go to Africa…hike Kilimanjaro, safari in the Serengeti, unwind in Zanzibar, etc. But, with the financial uncertainty of me starting my own business this year, we decided to pursue something a little more budget friendly.
After much deliberation…we landed on Peru! We’ll be spending almost 4 weeks backpacking through this beautiful country. We are excited to disconnect from the rat race and spend some dedicated time reconnecting with each other.
Our Itinerary
12/14 Depart Denver
12/15 Arrive Lima, fly to Cusco
12/16 Moray Terraces & Salinas de Maras
12/17 Via Ferrata & Ziplining, Ollanta
12/18 Ollanta, train to Aguas Calientes
12/19 Machu Picchu Day 1
12/20 Machu Picchu Day 2, train to Cusco
12/21 Tipon (day trip from Cusco)
12/22 Bus Cusco to Chivay
12/23 Chivay, Colca Canyon
12/24 Colca Canyon, bus to Arequipa
12/25 Arequipa, fly to Lima, overnight bus to Huaraz
12/26 to 1/01 Huaraz (Hiking in the Andes)
1/02 to 1/05 Huanchaco (Beach time)
1/05 Fly to Lima, bus from Lima to Huacachina
1/06 Huacachina, then onto Paracas
1/07 Paracas
1/08 Paracas, bus to Lima
1/09 Lima then flight to Mexico City
1/10 Fly Mexico City to Denver
I got a new backpack this year (Osprey Porter 30L). It’s a bit smaller than my previous pack, so I had to be a bit more selective in what I packed. I have a set process I use to pack.
Step 1: Organize everything on the bed and check against packing list
Packing List
- Passport
- Credit card & debit card
- iPhone, charger, headphones
- Earplugs + eye mask
- Toothbrush + toothpaste
- Sunglasses
- Garmin + charger
- Luggage lock
- Black walking shoes
- Waterproof hiking shoes
- Rain jacket poncho + rain pants + Gortex socks + Gortex gloves
- Lightweight jacket
- Wool long sleeve
- 5 t-shirts
- 2 tank tops
- 5 black bottoms (pants, leggings, capris, skirt, shorts)
- Swimsuit
- 2 Hats
- Beanie, ear warmer, neck warmer, wool gloves
- Socks + underwear
- Toiletries + medications
- Travel towel
- Travel clothes line
- Headlamp + extra batteries
Step 2: Organize items into compression sacks
Step 3: Fill backpack; set aside what I will wear on travel day
Our cat, Cali, tried to get into both of our packs while we were packing. I think she didn’t want to be left behind. Thankfully, a friend is staying in our place while we are gone, so she’ll have company.
take me with you!
laying on Jay’s pack
She even climbed into Jay’s closet while he was packing. Something she hasn’t done since she was a lot younger.
what about me?
We’ll miss you Cali. Hasta Luego!
Jay and Joann's Journey 
I’m looking forward to sharing all the sites you visit through your interesting photos and blogs. Praying for travel mercies and a wonderful experience as you celebrate a decade of marriage.
Thanks Aunt Becky! ❤️
Should be another wonderful experience. Happy 10th Anniversary. Look forward to following your journey!
I’m looking forward to your blogs. Have a great trip
So glad you are able to take this trip to celebrate 10 years of marriage!! Looking forward to seeing all your photos and hearing all about your adventures!
What a fun 1st read!!….sweet you included Cali photos—she knows you are leaving for sure!! Nice she gets to stay at home to ease the stress while you’re gone. I am always amazed when I see all your things shrink into such a little space —that is so cool! Great way to celebrate your 10 year anniversary with a getaway!! So many new sites, sounds and adventure await you as you explore Peru! Love & hugs— Aunt Marty
Thanks Aunt Marty! It is so nice to getaway and explore!