u/Adventurer_258

I’m planning to visit Cusco in late July and my main goal for the trip is to be more social, make new friends, and create memories while being surrounded by incredible nature.

I’ve solo travelled to around 10 countries and it’s been amazing, but I’ve usually stayed in hotels and sometimes felt a bit isolated. This time, I’m thinking of staying in hostels instead, probably in a private room, so I still have some independence but can meet other travellers more easily.

I’m really into spirituality and nature, so I’d love the trip to feel meaningful and memorable — not just rushed sightseeing. I’m considering social hostels like Wild Rover, Viajero, or Pariwana, and I’m also curious about group trips through Contiki, Intrepid, or G Adventures.

For those who’ve done Cusco, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, etc., how would you recommend I go about achieving this kind of trip? Are hostels the best move, or would organized group tours be better? Any advice on meeting people, joining group activities, and balancing the social side with altitude and early hikes?

I’m planning to visit Cusco in late July and my main goal for the trip is to be more social, make new friends, and create memories while being surrounded by incredible nature.

I’ve solo travelled to around 10 countries and it’s been amazing, but I’ve usually stayed in hotels and sometimes felt a bit isolated. This time, I’m thinking of staying in hostels instead, probably in a private room, so I still have some independence but can meet other travellers more easily.

I’m really into spirituality and nature, so I’d love the trip to feel meaningful and memorable — not just rushed sightseeing. I’m considering social hostels like Wild Rover, Viajero, or Pariwana, and I’m also curious about group trips through Contiki, Intrepid, or G Adventures.

For those who’ve done Cusco, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, etc., how would you recommend I go about achieving this kind of trip? Are hostels the best move, or would organized group tours be better? Any advice on meeting people, joining group activities, and balancing the social side with altitude and early hikes?

Hi all,

I’m a 29-year-old from Toronto planning a solo trip to Rio for the last 2 weeks of July and wanted some advice from people who know the city well or have done it solo before.

I’ve solo traveled internationally before and I’m comfortable being on my own. Usually I end up doing my own thing while traveling, but this time I want the trip to feel more social and memorable rather than just sightseeing.

I’m very interested in nightlife, beaches, local culture, meeting people organically, and experiencing the energy of Rio properly.

I’m trying to figure out how many days I should realistically spend there and which areas are best to stay in.

I’m also considering organized trips like Contiki or Intrepid as well if they make it easier to meet people and have a more social experience.

Would appreciate any honest advice, recommendations, or personal experiences.