The exceptionally well-travelled social media influencer, otherwise known as Chad Nathan, takes us on his unforgettable journey through Peru.
Two months ago, I embarked on a long-cherished adventure that took me to one of the most enchanting destinations on my bucket list: Peru. This vibrant country became the 53rd on my quest to explore all 197 nations by the time I turn 40. My travels are anything but conventional – I thrive on spontaneity, revelling in the unpredictability that comes from stepping into a new place with little more than a backpack and an open heart. For me, this approach has always led to extraordinary experiences and remarkable encounters.
Arriving in Cusco, perched at an altitude of 3 400 metres, I was instantly struck by the thin air, making each breath feel like a challenge. With only 11 days in Peru and a seemingly endless list of sights to see, I felt a familiar wave of stress wash over me.
Friends had advised me to take at least two days to acclimatise, which I decided to use to gather my thoughts and plan my next moves.
Staying in a cosy hostel, I overheard two fellow travellers discussing the infamous Salkantay Trek – a five-day hike to Machu Picchu that beckoned to me with its promise of adventure. Despite my lack of preparation – no hiking shoes, gear or even a basic plan – I felt an exhilarating spark of courage. With a departure just a day away, I quickly set about organising my gear as if I were training for a marathon. To kill two birds with one stone, I decided to go for a 20km run through Cusco. The rhythm of my feet on the cobbled streets allowed me to soak in the city’s rich history while also scouting out a local store for hiking shoes and other essentials. This impulsive sprint through the streets of Cusco was not just a workout; it was a whirlwind of culture and beauty that left me breathless – both from the altitude and the sheer wonder of it all.
Soon, I found myself joined by a diverse crew of adventurers: a German, an Australian and a South African – all of us eager to tackle the Salkantay Trek. Unlike most ravellers, who opt for guided groups complete with donkeys and chefs, we were determined to navigate the trail on our own terms. We set off, fuelled by a mix of adrenaline and naivety, and promptly got lost within the first kilometre. But it didn’t matter; we were surrounded by breathtaking mountains and valleys, and we figured it out together. Over the next five days, we forged an unbreakable bond as we hiked 20km to 25km each day, climbing to altitudes of 4 600 metres. We dealt with bed bugs, freezing nights and the kind of exhaustion that pushes you to your limits. Yet each challenge was accompanied by laughter and camaraderie. We shared stories, swapped travel tips and celebrated our small victories as we reached stunning landmarks like Laguna Humantay and Salkantay Peak, all while making new friends at the hostels along the way.
Finally, after days of hard work and shared experiences, we arrived at the legendary Machu Picchu. Standing in the shadow of the ancient ruins, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment – not just for completing the trek, but for the incredible connections I’d formed along the way. By the end of our journey, we were no longer just strangers; we were kindred spirits united by our love for adventure and discovery. Reflecting on my two-month journey through South America, this trek in Peru stands out as the highlight of it all. The memories I created with those two legends will remain etched in my heart forever. Peru was not just a destination; it was a transformative experience that reaffirmed my belief in the beauty of spontaneity and the power of shared adventures.
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