Gale Beeby hops aboard the famed Andean Explorer train and heads high into Peru's Andes to visit and enjoy beautiful Lake Titicaca

Ollantaytambo, Peru — As we trod along, both ourselves and the horses looking a bit worse for wear, the welcoming sight of Ollantaytambo’s cobbled streets came into view, it’s neatly stacked rock walls, yellow houses, and blooming bougainvillea marking our safe return.

CHACHAPOYAS PERU - My cabbie excitedly yells into his phone “Dónde estás se encuentra la entrada?” It’s the third call he’s made since we arrived at the ruins of Yalape in the Northern Andes of Peru. I soon learn it’s his first time here, too.

CUSCO, PERU - While peering through the aircraft’s cabin window as we descend into this high altitude city, my anticipation soars. Cusco is the starting point for my journey through the Sacred Valley of Peru.