Tuesday, 09 June 2026 02:06

Winning HoT agent shares Peru tips

Jessica Oswald, HoT with friend Sarah Jay Jessica Oswald, HoT with friend Sarah Jay

Jessica Oswald from House of Travel Auckland City has returned from Peru after winning a Mountain Lodges of Peru prize trip for two at a Viva Expeditions breakfast event last year.

Oswald travelled on a six-day Lares Adventure to Machu Picchu, exploring Peru’s Sacred Valley through a combination of trekking, cultural experiences and mountain lodge stays. She has returned with a number of learnings from her experience.

‘Before heading off to Machu Picchu for any treks it’s definitely a good idea to have some time in Cusco to acclimatise as the altitude does surprise you,’ she says ‘Layers and good shoes are great for the ‘Inca flat’ trails…which means uneven and ancient – that’s part of the experience.’

Viva Expeditions GM Tara Sutherland says the Lares Adventure is one of the best ways to experience Peru beyond the traditional tourist route.

‘It gives travellers the feeling of adventure and achievement while still allowing them to experience Peru in a more relaxed and immersive way.’

The six-day Cusco-Cusco itinerary is available March to December and is priced from $5,680pp twin share.