AN INTRODUCTION TO
KUODATRAVEL
Be not afraid of growing slowly, be afraid only of standing still Chinese proverb
At Kuoda, our name is more than just a name, it’s a form of identity. It says a lot about our approach to our work too. Originating from Mandarin Chinese, Kuoda means to expand and broaden one’s scope. Every new day is a new opportunity in striving to improve, learn and ultimately grow, so we can help provide the best possible personalized travel experience for you.
TABLE OF CONTENTS 6 What does traveling to Peru mean?
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8 Mery Calderon
Founder & President of Kuoda Travel
Why travel with Kuoda?
Featured Destinations & Specialty Travel
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12 Sustainable tourism and meaningfull travel
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A Sample
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itinerary at a Glance Recommended Sample Journeys to South America
WHAT DOES TRAVELING TO PERU MEAN? Only a handful of places in the world can claim to have as rich a spring of offerings for travelers as Peru. In Peru, thousands of years of history and culture are packed into one truly brilliant package. Unwrapping it reveals multiple layers: mountainside Inca ruins, dense Amazon Rainforest, enigmatic desert geoglyphs, traditional Andean festivals and customs, and a world-class culinary scene. And while one part of Peru remains entrenched in its captivating and colorful past, the other part steps confidently forward, embracing change and new possibilities.
Peru draws myriad travelers because it offers so much. Visitors can allow their special interests and passions – be it history, archaeology, gastronomy, music or extreme sports – to shape their journey. But a private trip to Peru is also about discovery, and many people find that the highlights of their visit emerge from fortuitous moments: perhaps a timely glimpse of clouds parting to reveal an ancient stone kingdom, a surprising connection with locals who live an entirely different kind of life to you or your first taste of an unfamiliar, yet delicious food. Often, it is these experiences that can
be transformative. As travelers nourish and satisfy their interests, passions, and desires, they find themselves unexpectedly awakening new ones. Slowly, it dawns on them that they have but scratched Peru’s surface; there’s a lifetime’s worth of exploration here. This vast, complex land, stuffed to the brim with secret treasures and remarkable adventures, is just waiting to be explored. At Kuoda Travel, we invite you to find your own personalized Peru adventure, creating memories that you’ll revisit long after your trip here is over.
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WHY TRAVEL WITH KUODA? THE KUODA EXPERIENCE At Kuoda Travel, we have just one goal: helping you have the vacation of your dreams. We’ve become known as one of the top providers of luxury travel in Peru and other parts of South America. But true luxury isn’t about price. It doesn’t mean you have to overnight in the most exclusive hotels or dine in the most expensive restaurants. (Unless, of course, that is your dream vacation). What it really means is not having to worry. To be able to relax completely and simply enjoy your experience. Imagine having a friend who lives where you want to go, has experience in tourism and can guide you every step of the way. In South America, that friend is Kuoda Travel
UNEARTH PERU
MERY CALDERON FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR
Your experience is everything, so flawless personal service is our focus. We want you to experience the best of our region and leave knowing you have friends in South America.
Most vacation memories quickly dissipate in the face of routine, but remarkable travel experiences hover in the back of the mind forever. With Kuoda’s private tours to Peru, we create meaningful memories that last for a lifetime. Private and completely personalized, your one-of-a-kind itinerary takes into account all the practicalities as well as the fun stuff… By collaborating with Kuoda, you are enlisting the help of the best tour operator in Peru, and indeed South America as a whole. Consider us your travel fairy godmother ready to grant your wishes for an unforgettable vacation.
OUR INNOVATIVE, ENRICHING ITINERARIES Our personalized tours of Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru are designed to leave not just a positive impression, but a lasting one too. Sure, you’ll go home with outstanding photos (that’s a given), but you’ll also return from our tours with much more – a sense of rejuvenation, priceless family memories and new perspectives on and a greater understanding of the world and its cultures.
FOR LOCAL INSIGHT Kuoda is a Peruvian-owned travel agency with offices in the U.S. and Peru. Having an on-theground presence in Cusco gives us an edge. Not only do we know the region like the back of our hand, but we’re able to keep abreast of any exciting goings-on as well as any changes that may affect your Peru, Ecuador or Bolivia private travel experience. We know when traffic will come to a standstill and when festivities will result in reveler-clogged streets. Put simply, we don’t miss a beat. An international frame-of-mind with Peruvian know-how, can it get any better?
TO DISCOVER THE UNKNOWN We actively seek out the undiscovered: the hidden-away wonders, the little-known locales and out-of-the-way attractions. In other words, the things that have yet to make it into the guidebook. We believe that by providing extraordinary experiences that fit your passion, we can take your vacation to the next level. Our focus is fixed on your individual requirements, interests and wishes, so you can expect our itineraries to be of the mold-breaking – not cookie-cutter – variety.
BEST VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY Your leisure time is a seriously precious commodity, so you have the right to expect the best return for your investment. We understand that letting us plan how you spend it is an act of trust, so we promise we’ll be there to provide personal attention and service at every point of the process. We want your trip to South America to leave you longing for more – in your next vacation of course! And lest you still need convincing, consider the following fact: more than 60 percent of our business comes from referrals.
OUR DEDICATED, PASSIONATE AGENTS At Kuoda, we don’t see our clients as robots, but as real, live people and thus, deserving of the best hospitality and warmth this side of the equator. A simple concept, yes, but it makes all the difference. We value your opinions and hope that you’ll come to value ours too, as we succeed in providing not just more than you expect but also more than you can imagine. It’s not just our clients that matter, either. We are equally passionate about the people and environments of the countries we send them to. That’s why, we’re more than happy to arrange for travelers to participate in philanthropic efforts, cultural interchanges and other mutually enriching experiences.
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AND MEANINGFUL TRAVEL CULTURAL RESPONSABILITY At Kuoda, we take our ethical and social responsibilities very seriously. We believe that tourism in South America should do more good than harm, which is why we are committed to following ethical practices. Not only do we treat the cultures we visit with humility and reverence, but we also strive to create a two-way dialogue that’s enriching for both visitors and locals. Through sustainable tourism practices, communities can focus anew on their traditions, celebrations, stories and traditional arts, and can devote more resources to maintaining their cultures, heritages and even languages. Our guests have the opportunity to see the world and contribute to it in a way that is more responsible and, ultimately, more rewarding.
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ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSABILITY
It was in response to this situation that the Andean Children’s Learning Center was born. Kuoda dedicates a portion of its proceeds to providing a quiet, well-lit facility for the children to study in as well as a certified teacher to tutor them. In March of 2011, we added a computer center and computer teacher. Our goal is to provide the facilities and encouragement that will help these children continue their education beyond the sixth grade and, ideally, through to college. Today, we are proud to say that almost two-thirds of the children in this area visit the Andean Children’s Learning Center regularly.
When it comes to environmental responsibility, we take our cue from the Quechua, the indigenous people of the Andean highlands. They hold a strong belief in the power of the planet, or “Pachamama,” and so do we. We always seek to steer our guests toward culturally authentic experiences that protect and preserve the ecological environment they interact with. Our goal is to have minimal impact on the areas we visit. To ensure we attain this, we only work with trusted travel agents, suppliers, We invite you to learn more about guides and lodges who share our our Andean initiatives. If you’re ever keen to get an even closer look at our eco-minded beliefs. projects, you can experience them first-hand and perhaps even participate in local activities. Visits to these LEADING communities have proved particuA HEALPING HAND larly rewarding, with one client sharIn 2007, we began an ambitious ing the following thought: “After this project in a small, remote Ande- experience, my children seemed to an village. At that time, the only understand much more about comofficial public school in the set- munity and sharing than before. My tlement, which served kids from husband and I ended up wondering kindergarten through to sixth just who was helping whom.” grade, was without a library and short on suitable teaching materials. The level of education there was low, even compared to the standards of other rural schools in the region. When children here completed the sixth grade, they had to travel outside of the village to continue attending school. Students rarely had a place to do their homework. Their parents – armed with only an elementary school-level education – could offer little assistance at home.
Kuoda is an active member of APTAE, the Peruvian Association of Adventure Tourism, a non-profit organization that works with Peruvian travel agents and tour operators to promote adventure and ecological tourism in Peru in order to ultimately preserve and benefit the environment. Most members of our staff are volunteers and conservationists, working with earthquake prevention programs, river clean-up campaigns, reforestation projects, and various social projects throughout the local communities.
FEATURED DESTINATIONS & SPECIALTY TRAVEL Culture
Cusco & The Sacred Valley
Arequipa & The Colca Canyon
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Manu Biosphere Reserve
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A Day in The Life Family Travel
Puno & Lake Titicaca
The Adrenaline of Adventure travel
Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
History Travel
Nazca Lines, Ballestas Islands, Paracas & Ica
Iquitos & The Amazon River
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Trujillo & Chiclayo
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Lima
For the Nature Enthusiast
Culinary travel
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sanctuary of machu picchu
Explore the grandeur of the “Lost City of the Incas”
Machu Picchu deservedly tops the agenda of most visitors to Peru. Set on a lofty plateau surrounded by the soaring and dipping Andean peaks, this ancient city is a stirring reminder of an advanced and powerful civilization. For 400 years, it lay silent and forgotten by all but the locals, until Yale university historian Hiram Bingham re-discovered the overgrown site in 1911 and shared what he had found with the world. As word spread about this magnificent lost Inca city high among the Andes, intrepid explorers started trickling in and later, a large tourist influx followed. To combat overcrowding and help preserve the fragile site, visitor restrictions have been implemented.
Going early in the morning just as it opens is a novel way to begin a day. At this time, the crowds are usually thinner and the light is particularly fabulous as the sun creeps over the surrounding Andean spires. As you explore the site, ponder the ingenuity of the Inca people, who built this city in the clouds without using any cement or mortar – just precision measurements to ensure every block fit perfectly together. The innovation and artistry of the Incas is made all the more incredible by the fact that they managed to construct this isolated citadel without the use of the wheel or written language.
TWO WAYS TO GETTING TO MACHU PUCCHU If you are interested in private tours to Machu Picchu, discuss your options with the Kuoda team, who can advise on the different ways and best times to visit. Don’t let time restrictions or a lack of fitness prevent you from visiting the famous Inca complex; we can arrange luxury tours to Machu Picchu too. Arrive in style via train – we can even secure you first-class seats – from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, the town nearest Machu Picchu. The total journey time will take around three and a half to four hours. From Aguas Calientes, hop on a shuttle bus, which takes just 20 minutes to reach the site. Please pay attention to the conservation regulations of the sanctuary as detailed on your ticket.
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Alternatively, you can approach Machu Picchu the old-fashioned way: on 2 foot. The Inca Trail will take you directly to the archaeological site through the main Sun Gate, or Inti Punku, entrance (though there are limited daily permits). The Salkantay trek (no current limitations) will take you into Aguas Calientes. The Salkantay trek has the added draw of being near a variety of high-class hospitality lodges for those who would rather hike by day and indulge in Machu Picchu luxury travel experiences by night.
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PISAC
cusco & the sacred valley of the incas Imperial Capital and ultimate Treasure of the Incan Empire
CUSCO The one-time capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is filled with masterfully executed Inca stone relics. Legend has it that the city was founded by the first Incas, Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo, the sun and daughter of the sun god. After being born from Lake Titicaca, Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo headed north to found the Inca dynasty here. Whatever the truth of the city’s origins, for the Incas Cusco was the heart of their empire and the “navel of the world.”
Other Inca sites worth seeking out in Cusco include the walled complex of Sacsayhuaman, where Spanish conquistadores clashed with Inca leaders in a brutal battle; Qorikancha (the Temple of the Sun); and Calle Hatun Rumiyoc, a shining example of Inca masonry skills and home to the famous 12-angle stone.
Despite its collection of ancient treasures, this vibrant city is no mere museum. In fact, it’s surprisingly happening and vivacious, with lots of lively Despite the onslaught of earthquakes and the plun- restaurant, bars and shops, as well as fiestas, makdering and rebuilding of the city by the Spanish ing it a worthy inclusion on luxury tours to Peru. conquistadors, the presence of the Incas is still writ large here in the so-called archaeological capital of THE SACRED VALLEY the Americas. A quick stroll around this UNESJust a one-hour drive from Cusco, shadowed beCO-listed city will reveal the astounding construcneath the emerald Andean peaks lies the Sacred tion skill of this once-powerful civilization. Marvel Valley of the Incas. Here, you’ll find peaceful vilat the precision of the Inca-built walls, where huge lages that modernity has barely touched as well as blocks fit together like perfectly cut jigsaw pieces, Inca ruins, such as those near Pisac and Ollantaywithout cement or mortar to bond them. The fact tambo. Mild weather, rousing scenery and interestthat these structures remain intact today is testaing terrain attract outdoorsy types who come here ment to the incredibly sophisticated engineering to enjoy rafting, mountain biking, hand-gliding, skills and impeccable workmanship of the Inca paragliding, horseback riding and trekking. people.
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The mountain town of Pisac is best-known for two things: its magnificent Inca ruins and its colorful artisan market. Start by exploring the Inca citadel, which sits on a plateau above sweeping agricultural terraces. At the top of the site is the Sun Temple, which contains an abstract yet significant carved rock hitching post; this is thought to be symbolically tied to the sun as it journeys across the sky. Back in town, Pisac’s artisan market happens daily, but peaks on Sundays, when the selection of weaved blankets, knitted scarves, cozy alpaca jumpers, ceramics and other traditional products is particularly wide-ranging.
CHINCHERO Chinchero’s Sunday market was originally set-up so that people living in the valley and the surrounding hills could trade produce. No longer is it just a local affair. Visitors now come from far and wide to browse superb handicrafts produced by the indigenous weaving community here. Chinchero’s weavers are artisans in the truest sense; they harvest wool, produce their own plant dyes and hand weave their intricate textiles.
OLLANTAYTAMBO Named after the Inca chief, Ollanta, this town is now the kick-off point for the Inca Trail. But even if you aren’t hiking the world-famous route, Ollantaytambo’s cluster of well-preserved Inca ruins and relics form an attraction in their own right. The town retains its original Inca walls and street grid, and the formidable fortress here was one of the last Inca bastions to withstand the attacking Spanish.
MORAY This stepped, amphitheater-like pits are believed to have been used by the Incas to experiment with groundbreaking agricultural methods. Because of the different elevations, the temperatures between each layer of the pit can vary by several degrees. These distinct microclimates allow different types of vegetables and cereals to grow, which couldn’t otherwise survive in the harsh Andean environment.
manu biosphere reserve World’s Most Diverse Protected Reserve
This sprawling UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve covers an area approximately one-third the size of Costa Rica. This is Peru’s largest protected natural region and indeed, one of the largest on the planet. Yet it is the species it shelters, rather than its scale, that truly wows. Protection levels are staggered throughout the park. At its core is a strictly controlled center devoted to the protection of the wildlife and virgin forest. Surrounding this is a reserved area, which is allowed to be used for research and tourism purposes. Lastly is a designated cultural area, where villages can be found and cultivation of the land is allowed. More than 800 species of birds fly around Manú, including the eye-catching cock-of-the-rock, recognizable by its rich orange-red plumage. Joining the feathered inhabitants of the jungle are a further 200 mammal species, including black caimans, skulking jaguars and spectacled bears – so-called for the fur-markings around their eyes, which often resembles glasses. Scuttling around from the forest floor up to the canopy are countless reptiles and insects, some of which have yet to be classified. Then there are more than 2,000 different plant varieties, ranging from giant orchids through to trees as tall as a 15-storey building. The Manú residents that seem to stir up most intrigue, however, are the indigenous tribes, who live in voluntary isolation and possess their own language, rituals and hunting and fishing practices. Consider spending at least a few days in Manú as part of your Amazon private tour, as a longer stay will allow you to get deeper into the park and thus, closer to the wildlife.
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THE ADRENALINE OF ADVENTURE TRAVEL If you’re the kind of traveler who craves a rush, and who is happiest when out and about and active, we can arrange the perfect adventure vacation for you. At Kuoda travel, we can fill up your exclusive tour of Peru with ambitious treks to distant Andean peaks, challenging rides down white-flecked rapids and hikes into the Amazon jungle. And if going by boot or paddle isn’t enough, we can up the ante even further with surfing, dune-buggying and other heart-racing activities. Peru is an Adventure-lovers paradise, from the world´s best treks, to the best surf and as one of the best tour operators in Peru, we know where to find the most thrilling adventures and stimulating experiences. Just let us know your adventure threshold and we’ll concoct an active, fun-filled trip.
THE CULINARY TRAVEL THE DELIGHTS OF EXUBERANT & ANCIENT FLAVORS If you haven’t heard about Peru’s gastronomic revolution, you must be living under a rock. The country, which was recently named the world’s leading culinary hotspot by the World Travel Awards, is now a white-hot culinary destination, with gastronomes the world over embarking on luxury tours to Peru. Lima – the historical capital of the Spanish Viceroyalty in South America and the current capital of Peru – is also the country’s “food capital.” Many of Peru’s most cutting-edge chefs practice their craft here, relying on the incredible assortment of local ingredients available and drawing on the multicultural influences (pre-Columbian, Spanish, Italian, Japanese and Chinese to name a few) to put up imaginative and seriously tasty plates. The rich history, culture, art tradition and cuisine of Peru all contribute to its status as a gastronomic capital of the Americas and as a must-experience destination.
arequipa & the colca canyon The “White City”& home of the mystic Andean Condor AREQUIPA With three snow-sprinkled volcanic peaks looming impressively over a bleached stone cityscape, Peru’s second-largest city supplies visual impact in spades. Its grand colonial buildings are made from white sillar stone, and it’s their gleaming complexion that has earned Arequipa its nickname, “White City.” Wander the European-style streets and shop for antiques, handicrafts and high-quality alpaca goods so deliciously soft they beg to be touched. Arequipa has also been a driving force in Peru’s culinary scene, and its picanterías (traditional restaurants) are known for their spicy stews (adobo) and shrimp chowder (chupe de camarones).
Among the top attractions in Arequipa is the stunning Santa Catalina convent, a walled colonial complex. Also of note is the Santa Maria Catholic University’s Andean Sanctuaries Museum, which houses the Juanita Mummy – the body of a young Inca girl who was killed as an offering to the gods in the late 15th century. With its UNESCO-listed historic core and glorious volcanic vistas, Arequipa makes a wonderful stop-off during a private Peru holiday.
COLCA CANYON The gargantuan Colca Canyon, located just 100 miles northwest of Arequipa, boasts some seriously impressive stats. At 0.6 miles in depth, it is twice as deep as its famous American counterpart, the Grand Canyon. Colca Canyon is also home to several Andean communities who continue to cultivate agricultural terraces that date back to pre-Inca times. Adventures can embark on canyon trek, before soothing tired muscles in the La Calera hot springs, which are just a short journey away from the largest canyon town of Chivay. Keep an eye on the skies as you explore the canyon; the Andean condor, one of the largest birds of prey in the world, can occasionally be spotted soaring overhead. Up your chances of a condor sighting by heading to the Cruz del Condor lookout, where the black-feathered beast frequently makes an appearance.
nazca lines, ballestas islands, paracas & ica
Mysterious Collection of Geoglyphs & stunning scenery
THE NAZCA LINES This mysterious collection of geoglyphs is spread across the desert terrain of southern Peru. Drawn by ancient Nazca people circa A.D. 600, these etchings continue to mystify archaeologists and historians. Why were they made? What is their purpose? What do they mean? Theories about the geoglyphs are wide-ranging and connect them to everything from extraterrestrials to water rituals. Some of the etchings are straight lines and trapezoids while others depict stylized representations of various animals, including a hummingbird, a monkey and a fish.
PARACAS NATIONAL RESERVE
An ornithologist’s dreamland, this UNESCO-listed national reserve is just under four hours from Lima by car, yet it couldn’t feel further away. It encompasses parts of the Paracas desert; the Ballestas Islands, which are famed for their fauna; and wildlife-rich ocean environments where sea lions, Humboldt penguins and dolphins play.
ICA An unexpected oasis in the middle of the barren desert, Ica is surprisingly fecund. Excellent wine and pisco – Peru’s national liquor and the star ingredient in the much-loved pisco sour cocktail – are produced in the nearby fruit-laden vineyards. Ica is the starting point for many tours to Nazca and Paracas, but also has attractions of its own: for the desert-bound, sandboarding and dune-buggying, and for the thirsty, pisco tasting.
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iquitos & the amazon river World’s Most Diverse Protected Reserve Iquitos – set on the banks of the mighty Amazon River – is no ordinary city, but a steamy jungle metropolis. No roads lead here and it can only be reached via water or by air. Born from a small Jesuit mission, Iquitos’s heyday came in the 19th century as the result of a rubber boom. During this period, money flooded into the region and a bevy of grand and extravagant mansions were built, including the Gustave Eiffel-designed Casa de Fierro (the Iron House). Though the rubber barons have long since fled, their opulent residences – so incongruous to the jungle setting – still stand.
Opposite Nauta is the National Pacaya-Samiria Reserve, whose protected tract of flood forest is quite unlike anything else on the planet. The clarity of the reflections that appear on the river and lagoon surfaces have earned it the nickname of “Mirror Jungle.” Manatees, pink dolphins, charapa turtles and anacondas are just some of the critters that live in these lakes, lagoons, swamps and wetlands.
Just 16 miles southwest of Iquitos lies the wildlife-packed Allpahuayo-Mishana National ReIquitos makes an excellent base from which to set serve, which is home to an exceptionally dioff on luxury tours. Amazon luxury cruises are a verse range of trees, birds, reptiles and animals. popular option and most commonly depart from the port of Nauta, just south of the city. Not far If you are looking for Amazon luxury travel, Iquifrom here is the confluence of the Marañon and tos makes a fantastic jump-off point. Trips can also the Ucayali rivers, which marks the starting point be made from here to a number of typical jungle of the Amazon. From here, the roaring waterinns and to Amazonian communities, such as way continues to snake through the continent the Bora and the Yagua peoples. for more than 4,217 miles before finally reaching the Atlantic Ocean.
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CULTURE INMERSE TRAVEL THAT WILL LAST FOREVER
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Our immersive travel experiences don’t just allow travelers to witness the culture and heritage of the places and people they visit, but to experience it too, whether through art, folklore, music, rituals or other aspects. Though the cultural pursuits we arrange may be less physically demanding, they are nevertheless thrilling. On a customized tour of Peru, Bolivia or Ecuador, we can introduce you to locals who will welcome you into their world and invite you to converse and participate in it too. If you have a particular historical fascination or want to research a specific topic related to South America, Kuoda can deliver that. Travel motives are the desire to not just witness different cultures but to experience them. The cultural experiences we arrange are always honest and are specifically designed and developed by the locals themselves with full support from the Kuoda Team.
Peru is packed with relics of its former inhabitants, from the oldest civilizations in the Americas to the largest and mightiest empire on the southern continent. You could take a year-long personalized trip to Peru to explore its riveting ancient sites, and you’d probably still have only scratched the surface. It is, most famously, known for being the center of the Inca Empire, whose former capital – Cusco – is now the “archaeological capital of the Americas.” Because of the power and breadth of the Inca Empire, it is their footprint you will see most frequently during your private Peru holiday, yet this brilliant civilization is but one chapter in Peru’s long story. Pre-Columbian cultures, some of whom flourished thousands of years before the Incas, have also left their mark on the land. Learning about these ancient sites is a highlight for all generations.
HISTORY ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS ONLY FOUND IN PERU
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puno & lake titicaca The “birthplace”of the Incan Empire It’s hard to imagine just how gigantic Lake Titicaca really is until you see it for yourself. Half in Bolivia and half in Peru, Titicaca sits at 12,500 feet above sea level, making it the world’s largest high-altitude lake. Once you set eyes on the remarkably calm, mirror-clear expanse, it’s not difficult to understand why this unique, incomparable place was so highly venerated by the Inca people. The Incas believed that these waters birthed the first two of their kind, Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo, who would go on to found the empire’s capital, Cusco. Several different communities still make their home on the lake. Arguably the most intriguing community here is the Uros, who live on floating totora-reed islands that are built and maintained entirely by hand. Hugging the shores of the lake is the larger Puno settlement, which explodes into color in February for the Virgen del Candelabra Festival and Carnaval. If you plan on visiting Lake Titicaca during one of Kuoda’s customized tours of Bolivia or Peru, consider bedding down on the privately owned island of Suasi, where a secluded solar-powered lodge offers stunning lake views.
tambopata national reserve The Exotic Amazon at its Very Best!
Tambopata National Reserve covers more than one million square hectares of Amazonian wilderness. It’s a vast and astonishingly biodiverse place that harbors 575 bird species, 1,200 butterfly varieties, 103 different types of mammals and 94 fish species. Endangered creatures, among them the giant river otter, South American bush dog, black caiman and the fantastical-looking harpy eagle, all find sanctuary in this protected rainforest tract. The flora of the reserve is equally showstopping. Some 1,400 different plant species thrive here, including cedar, palms, Brazil nut and the Peruvian pine – one of the tallest trees in the rainforest and a frequent target of loggers. Weaving through the reserve are the Tambopata and the lower Madre de Dios rivers, and it is near these that most tourist activities, including jungle walks and boat rides, take place.
Also encompassed in the reserve is the Bahuaja-Sonene National Park. Here, the absence of permanent human settlements has allowed species like the tapir and spider monkey, which are extinct in other areas of the Amazon, to thrive. Lodges built in the reserve inject some unexpected style and comfort and are a tempting choice for anyone seeking an Amazon luxury travel experience.
trujillo
& chiclayo
Peru’s Culture Capital and Paradisiacal Northern Beaches
TRUJILLO
cultures known for their gold, silver, pottery and At first glance, Trujillo, Peru’s third-largest city, architectural creations. looks colonial through and through. The mod- Travelers in need of some restorative beach time ern-day city was founded in the 16th century with during their private Peru vacation may choose to the arrivals of the Spanish and there is a sense that doze a while on the sands or ride a wave at nearby time has almost stood still since then. The grace- beaches, such as Delicias, Salaverry, Huanchaco ful streets are still awash with Baroque churches and Chicama. The Pacific swells provide plenty and colorful houses complete with elegant window of rideable waves and are often the setting for intrimmings. ternational surfing competitions. In Huanchaco, But this region’s colonial-era appearance belies its earlier history, which actually stretches back to pre-Columbian times. Between 200 B.C. and A.D. 700, this was the base for the Moche and Chimú civilizations, both of which were highly developed
fishermen can been seen out on the water sitting astride their caballitos de totoras (reed canoes), a traditional watercraft that has been used here for thousands of years. The Pacific shores also deliver a bounty of fresh seafood, which usually isn’t long from the water before it’s placed on your plate.
TEMPLES OF THE SUN AND MOON AND CHAN Many visitors to Trujillo come specifically to see the two ceremonial centers, known as “huacas,” of the Moche culture, found south of the city. The Temples of the Sun and the Moon were believed to have been used as an administrative nucleus and a center of worship. If you choose to make the journey out here during your personalized tour of Peru, be sure to look for the detailed polychrome murals on the walls of the Temple of the Moon, where the face of the fire god, Aia-Paec, can still be made out.
CHICLAYO AND THE LORD OF SIPAN Also in the region and well worth checking out is the ancient adobe city of Chan, the one-time capital of the Chimú kingdom. This pre-Inca citadel is located just three miles northwest of Trujillo and would have, during the halcyon days of the empire’s height, contained an array of gold and silver – later plundered by the Spaniards. These days, the most treasured features are the earthen walls, which are adorned with geometric reliefs as well as depictions of animals and mythological figures. Chiclayo was founded in the 16th century by missionaries and is now the fourth-largest city in Peru. Pre-Columbian sites are scattered around the region, but it was the discovery of one in particular in 1987 that propelled it into the archaeological big leagues. This was the tomb of the Lord of Sipán, a Moche leader whose entourage and dazzling royal regalia has been compared to that of Egypt’s King Tutankhamun. Want to see the mummy and his most important artifacts in the flesh? Let us know, we are more than happy to arrange visits to the Royal Tombs Museum of Sipán in nearby Lambayeque (where they are held) as part of our customized tours of Peru.
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A DAY IN THE LIFE FAMILY SPECIALTY TRAVEL We design unique family tours to Peru where itineraries, activities and menus are developed with the younger travelers, as well as their parents, in mind. And we don’t just want to ensure your kids are taken care of; we want them to be just as inspired by the new places they’re exploring as you are. Traveling is a quintissential and one of the most effective ways to open up a child’s world, introducing them to new possibilities, as well as sparking new interests. Exposure to unfamiliar cultures, languages and environments during family travel in Peru will help ensure the kids of today become the responsible, well-rounded adults of tomorrow. By finding the perfect blend of adventure and education, we’ll make sure there’s enough fun happening to keep them smiling too.
FOR THE NATURE ENTHUSIASTS
PERU IS YOUR ULTIMATE DESTINATION Peru is a natural treasure trove, one of just 17 classified megadiverse countries that contain most of the world’s living bounty. For nature-lovers embarking on private tours to Peru, the country presents seemingly unlimited opportunities. More than 2,000 species of fish, 1,736 species of birds dwell here (making Peru the second-most biodiverse region for birds in world), as well as 460 mammals and 365 reptiles, ranking 3rd and, 5th respectively, well I think you get the picture! Offering hundreds of endemic species of flora and fauna, it’s up to you whether you desire to marvel at the painterly beauty of flowering orchids or spot scores of rare birds squawking under the cover of trees, Peru is the place to do it. Contact a Kuoda representative to plan your personalized back-to-nature experience.
lima “The City of Kings”and Gastronomic Capital Peru’s cosmopolitan capital was first founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador, Francisco Pizarro, and its UNESCO-listed historic core is still endowed with extensive colonial architecture. History buffs will find plenty to keep them enthralled, from ancient temples such as Pachacamac, an oracle center for the Wari and Moche cultures, to the elaborate Baroque-style Lima Cathedral and the Convent of San Francisco. While the city cradles its past, many of the residents have their eyes focused firmly on the future, constantly striving to create boundary-pushing food and cutting-edge art. Lima is not just Peru’s, but South America’s gastronomic capital and excellent restaurants aren’t difficult to find. Nor, for that matter, are exquisite five-star hotels, superb shopping, architecture, archaeological sites and culture. Upscale Miraflores, which is sprinkled with restaurants, hotels and nightspots, is a great neighborhood to stay in during a Peru family trip. Bohemian Barranco, a hangout for artists, musicians and free spirits, also deserves some of your time, particularly after dark, when nightlife and live entertainment scenes flourish. Spend a little time in both to experience their unique spirit and energy.
Lima is well-suited to outdoor life too. Warm weather combined with beaches and shore-line cliffs mean that activities such as surfing, hang-gliding and paragliding are part of the whole packaage
YOUR TRAVEL ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
T he Grand Tour Experiencing Southern Peru
The following sample itinerary has been selected to give you an idea of the kind of personalized travel experiences we design for our guests, which range from family tours to Bolivia to luxury cruises to the Galåpagos Islands. These are not packaged tours. All of our trips are individually customized, so be aware that your experience will undoubtedly vary in certain details. Feel free to browse this sample for inspirational purposes, and start thinking about what you want from personalized travel in Ecuador, Peru or Bolivia. At Kuoda, we want you to have the experience of your dreams, not someone else’s, and we are here to talk through your ideas and help you make those dreams a reality.
15 Days/14 Nights enjoying Lima - Arequipa - Colca Canyon - Lake Titicaca Cusco -The Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu - The Amazon Jungle
DAY 1
Welcome to Peru! Arrival in Lima You will find us waiting for you when your international flight arrives in Lima. Look for the Kuoda sign with your name and the smile. We will escort you to your hotel, check you in and help you get settled. You’ll then be able to rinse away the feeling of a long flight and enjoy a good night’s rest!
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SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATIONS
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Country Club Lima Hotel Enjoy the County Club’s premier location, soak up Lima’s vibrant history, and delight in the comforts of truly one-of-a-kind luxury.
JW Marriott Lima This stunning and iconic hotel boasts incredible, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean from every guest room, and a delicious restaurant.
Miraflores Park Part of the renowned Belmond Luxury Hotel collection, the Miraflores Park Hotel is located in an exclusive beachfront area of Miraflores.
Hotel B Barranco Hotel B provides the quintessential boutique experience in Lima, from within an historic mansion from 1914 in bohemian Barranco.
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Arequipa
DAY 2
From Lima to the White City Flight from Lima to Arequipa and a Private Tour of the City You will wake up refreshed and enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast in the hotel before we escort you to the airport for your morning flight to Arequipa. We will be waiting for you when touch down and will bring you to your hotel. In the afternoon, your guide will meet you for a private tour of Arequipa. – “the white city.” You’ll stroll through the shining center of town – with many buildings made from a white volcanic rock called sillar, giving the city its nickname – until you arrive at the Andean Sanctuary Museum, where you can gaze upon the famous ice-mummy, Juanita. You’ll continue to the 16th century convent of Santa Catalina, which seems to be a jewel of a city within a city. Finally, you’ll visit the main square of Yanahuara, with its famous panorama of Arequipa and the distant Misti Volcano. Your guide will then take you back to your hotel, where you can rest your feet and enjoy a relaxing evening!
AREQUIPA & COLCA
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATIONS Sonesta Posadas del Inca
Stunning Arequipa hotel located in the center of Arequipa’s main Plaza de Armas and features the restaurant “Inkafé” and a deluxe rooftop terrace.
Las Casitas del Colca One of Peru’s true hidden treasures is this elegant hotel and spa located amidst the serene calm of the Colca Canyon.
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Libertador Arequipa Constructed in 1940, the Libertador Arequipa Hotel is one the only luxury hotels in the “White City” of Arequipa, Peru.
Aranwa Colca The enchanting village of Aranwa Colca is idyllic community providing relaxing and elegance while you explore the breathtaking Colca canyon!
DAY 3
Toward The Colca Canyon Journey to Chivay, Sightseeing as You Go After a relaxed breakfast, your private guide and driver will pick you up for a scenic drive to the town of Chivay. This will be your jumping-off point for the Colca Canyon. Today’s drive takes us through breathtaking landscapes and makes stops to mingle with Peru’s camelids at Pampa Cañahuas, to flock with migratory birds at Bofedales de Toccra and finally to gaze on Arequipa’s surrounding volcanoes at the outlook of Patapampa. As you look out to the snowcapped peaks of the Misti, Hualca-Hualca and Ubinas Volcanoes, breathe deeply and feel the peace of taking in something completely new! When we arrive in Chivay, we will make our way to your hotel. In the afternoon you can choose to simply relax or to adventure off to the hot springs of Calera. Hot springs are an excellent option as the locals attribute healing properties to the soothing waters.
DAY 4
Canyon, Condors and the Road to Puno A Private Tour of Colca Canyon and A Road Trip to Puno Early in the morning, your guide will bring you to Condor’s Cross, where you can observe the depths of the Colca Canyon and watch the majestic flight of the giant Andean condor. You’ll also visit villages in the Colca Valley, where you’ll revel in the colorful local dress and friendly faces! In the afternoon you’ll depart Chivay with your private driver. The five-hour drive to Puno is through such beautiful country, the time will pass like nothing! Your Kuoda Puno host will check you into your hotel upon arrival.
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Lake Titicaca
DAY 5
Lake Titicaca’s Magical Islands A Boat Tour of the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Today, you will visit Titicaca’s islands by boat. Lake Titicaca, at 12,500 ft. above sea level is the world’s highest navigable lake. This means that even when the strong Andean sun shines, the wind can be chilly, so be sure to dress warmly! Your boat will take you out through the bay of Puno, past banks of reeds to the incredible floating islands of Uros. For hundreds of years, the people living here have constructed these small islands by hand from the local totora reed and they continually refresh the island floor. Their houses and boats are also cleverly constructed of the reed. You will have a chance to feel the rise and fall of the islands in the water and to chat with these ingenious people about their way of life. You will next motor to the large natural island of Taquile. Outside the Bay of Puno, Taquile seems almost Mediterranean, with grassy cliffs falling toward the blue water. The residents of the island are incredibly friendly and will explain how their chullos (earflap hats) distinguish married men from those who are single! In the afternoon, the boat will slowly bring you back to Puno. Let yourself be lulled by the waves and the sun. You will then be driven back to your hotel for the evening.
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PUNO & TITICACA
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATIONS
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Casa Andina Private Collection Suasi
Homestay in Amantani
Visit and stay at the only luxury hotel situated on a private island in the middle of the world’s highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca.
Spend a night participating in an authentic and culturally respectful homestay on the Peninsula of Amantani for those searching a truly authentic Peruvian experiences.
Libertador Hotel The iconic Libertador hotel juts out onto Lake Titicaca from the comforts of its own private peninsula, offering stunning night views of Puno.
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Titilaka An all-inclusive Relais & Chateaux property on the banks of Lake Titicaca, offering a true escape into the luxurious and mystic Peruvian culture.
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Sacred Valley
DAY 6
Over the Altiplano to Cusco A Sightseeing Tour by Bus from Puno to Cusco After breakfast, you will embark on a guided bus tour that will take you from Puno to Cusco. Along the way, you’ll stop at the key points of interest that dot this breathtaking route. You’ll pass La Raya– the highest point on your route. Surrounded by glorious snow-covered mountains and buffeted by chilly winds, you’ll marvel at the artisans who offer their wares at the roadside market. You will also visit a pre-Inca site at Pukara. You will see the Inca outpost of Raqchi. Constructed on the Inca frontier, the stone and mud brick walls of the town were meant to repel invaders from the South. You will visit the church in the tiny town of Andahuaylilllas. Adorned with beautiful frescoes, gold leaf and incredible wood sculpture, this church is considered the “Sistine chapel of the Americas.” At the end of the day, you’ll see rustic suburbs transform into the historic center of Cusco! We will meet you as you exit the bus in Cusco and bring you to your hotel, where you’ll be able to take a hot shower and put your feet up, watching the lights start to twinkle on the hills around the city.
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DAY 7
Delving Into Past and Present in the Sacred Valley Private Tour of Pisac’s Artisan Market and the Inca Ruins at Ollantaytambo Today, you will experience the wonderful combination of past and present that makes Peru so very fascinating. Your journey will start by taking you to the Living Museum of Awanakancha, where you will see traditional weavers at work and come face to face with llamas, alpacas and other Andean camelids. We will then take you to the small valley town of Pisac where you will visit the native village and its vibrant artisan market. With colorful textiles, sturdy ceramics, many varieties of fresh vegetables, dyes and well-crafted silver, there is truly something for everyone! The next stop will be in the ancient town of Ollantaytambo. This is one of the few remaining places in the Sacred Valley that has retained the Inca urban planning. You’ll note the street canals, the multi-family houses with interior courtyards and the trapezoidal doors! With your guide, you’ll climb the agricultural terraces that lead up to the temple of the sun and enjoy an Inca’s-eye view of the valley. You’ll see the food storehouses that the empire kept well-stocked and your guide will point out the distant quarries from whence the stone for Ollantaytambo came. Considering that the Incas did not have pack animals sturdy enough to carry stone (llamas are too delicate), their feats of engineering are awe-inspiring. At the end of the day, your guide and driver will bring you back to your hotel for a quiet evening. Remember, your Kuoda guide and driver are at your disposal – please feel free to stop at any point during the day for photos, stretch your legs and breathe in the clear air!
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SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATIONS Casa Cartagena A contemporary boutique hotel housed in a 16th-century casona in Cusco’s historic city center. Luxurious elegance, a relaxing spa, and a cozy restaurant that is also a local landmark!
Inkaterra La Cazona Open the doors of the Inkaterra La Casona hotel onto 11 of the most exclusive suites found in Cusco, just one block from the vibrant Plaza de Armas.
Sol Y Luna El Mapi by Inkaterra is the ideal hotel choice for visitors to Machu Picchu that are looking for a comfortable stay, accented with Peruvian personality.
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Palacio Nazarenas One of Cusco’s newest luxury hotels, the Belmond Palacio Nazarenas brings a fresh spin to historic, personalized luxury. A visit to Palacio Nazarenas is a must!
Monasterio Arguably the most iconic hotel in all of Cusco. This luxury hotel blends austere elegance with local history to create a true colonial masterpiece.
Tambo del Inka Tambo Del Inka Luxury Collection Hotel was recently named as one of the top 5 hotels in the world thanks to TripAdvisor!
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DAY 8
Visiting Curious Ruins and Our Friends in a Local Community Private Tours of Moray and Maras and Off-theBeaten Track Stop at a Local Community After breakfast in your hotel we will visit the Inca ruins at Moray. Some experts still believe these ancient amphitheaters served as an agricultural laboratory, though nobody has been able to confirm their true purpose! Form your own hypothesis as you peer into these beautiful concentric circles. We will continue through the small town of Maras before arriving at the unbelievable salt pans. Still in-use, each of thousands of flat white pools that terrace the hillside has been passed down through families since pre-Incan times. The intricate network of waterways and white evaporation pools seem like a work of modern art. We will then pause for a locally-prepared lunch. After lunch, we will take you to visit our friends in a small Sacred Valley village. Surrounded by towering mountains and hugging the shore of the breathtakingly blue Lake Piuray, agriculture dominates life in this close-knit place. The women of the village are weaving masters, using Incan techniques, materials and patterns. You will also meet some of the local children who attend Kuoda’s after-school program. The kids love to show off their drawings and computer skills! This town is far off the beaten-track, so you won’t see other travellers here. You will get to meet some of the friendliest people in Peru and to glimpse a more traditional way of life. At the end of the day, we will return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
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Machu Picchu
DAY 9
The Lost City of the Incas: Machu Picchu Private Tour of Machu Picchu Prepare for a climactic day! In the morning, we will board the Vistadome train in Ollantaytambo for our journey to Machu Picchu. Watch the cloud jungle pass by through the large glass windows! A bus will take us to the gates of this Wonder of the World. You will then ascend stone steps, through heavy tree cover to finally emerge at the top of the world – Machu Picchu! The incredible Inca stone construction will be spread below, alternately hidden and revealed by clouds. Your expert guide will give you a private tour of the ancient city. After a savory lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge, you can re-enter the citadel to explore on your own or return with your guide. You will descend down the mountain by bus for an evening in Aguas Calientes, and your guide will give you advice about how you might use your following free day.
DAY 10
Machu Picchu on Your Terms A Free Day to Explore the Ancient City at Your Own Pace This is your day to relax and enjoy Machu Picchu. The adventurous can climb to the citadel from town or hike the steep Huayna Picchu for the postcard view of the city. We recommend planning an early day – seeing the mist clear over Machu Picchu during the last rays of the sunrise is not to be missed! Entrances to Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, as well as round-trip bus tickets, are included today. In the afternoon, you will descend to Aguas Calientes for your return train. We will be waiting in the station for you and will bring you to your hotel for a good night’s rest.
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A.CALIENTES & MACHU PICCHU
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATIONS
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El Mapi El Mapi by Inkaterra is the ideal hotel choice for visitors to Machu Picchu that are looking for a comfortable stay, accented with Peruvian personality.
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge The Belmond Sanctuary Lodge boasts an ideal location with exclusive access to Machu Picchu. The only hotel located near the entrance of the lost citadel.
Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel Five-star hotel offering all the luxurious amenities needed to make your visit to Machu Picchu relaxing and unforgettable.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo This hotel is an entire little luxury village tucked away in the mountains of Aguas Calientes home to 370+ orchids species.
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Cusco
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DAY 11
Exploring the Imperial City of Cusco Private Tour of Cusco and the Inca Ruins Surrounding the City Your guide will meet you after breakfast and proceed to illuminate the glorious past of Cusco! From the Santo Domingo monastery, built on top of the ancient Inca temple of the sun, to the incredible colonial cathedrals in the Plaza de Armas, to impeccably-wrought Inca stones that form the base of modern buildings, you will learn about the astonishing mix that is Cusco. You will then journey into the countryside just above the city to visit the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, the temple of Q’enko and the red fort PucaPucara. After lunch on your own, you will have the afternoon to yourselves. You will be able to relax in the main Plaza de Armas or in your hotel, explore the artsy neighborhood of San Blas or wander the quaint cobblestone streets, soaking in as much of this beautiful city as possible.
DAY 12
Into the Jungle Flight to Puerto Maldonado. Boat to Your Lodge in the Tambopata Jungle. You will wake up refreshed and enjoy breakfast in the hotel before we escort you to the airport for your morning flight to Puerto Maldonado. The Hacienda Concepción team will be waiting for you when touch down at the small jungle airport. You’ll have a brief orientation, then it’s into the jungle by boat! After 25 minutes, you’ll arrive at the Hacienda Concepcion lodge. After you’ve had a moment to settle in and enjoy lunch, you’ll set out on a guided walk along one of the many beautiful trails. This is a wonderful introduction to the Amazon Rainforest. After an excellent supper, you’ll head into the forest for a twilight river excursion along the Madre de Dios River. Witness the transformation to a nocturnal world: animals and birds of the daytime give way to species specially adapted to the night. Keep your eyes peeled - you may see such animals as nightjars (a species of bird), owls, capybaras, and caimans!
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Tambopata
DAY 13
River Otters and Canopy Views A Day of Jungle Activities After breakfast, you’ll head for Lake Sandoval. Glide in a wooden canoe across a beautiful, mirror-like lake that is home to the endangered giant river otter, as well as red howler monkeys, red-bellied macaws, anacondas, side-neck turtles and black caimans. You’ll then return to the lodge for lunch. Then, it’s time to visit the Canopy Inkaterra Interpretation Center. The center consists of eight observation platforms, located 30 meters up in the canopy and linked by suspension bridges. You’llspend some time walking on the bridges that stretch between the different platforms, observing the jungle from above and seeing various bird species flying in the canopy or landing nearby. Some of the animals you may see include woodpeckers, toucans, monkeys and sloths. You’llend the day with a stroll along the Anaconda Walk wetlands, where you’ll learn of the flooded ecosystems and their fauna.
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PUERTO MALDONADO
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATIONS
Refugio Amazonas A delightful lodge adjacent to the Tambopata National Reserve, offering 32 guest rooms and constructed with a blend of traditional native materials and modern-day eco-friendly technology and sustainability.
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Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción
Tambopata Research Center
Inkaterra’s newest endeavor in the Tambopata jungle, and their award-winning service mixes perfectly with excellent jungle adventures and cozy guest accommodations, making for the perfect stay in the Peruvian Amazon!
Both a genuine biological research station and comfortable guest lodge. The lodge’s remote location ideal to glimpse rare wildlife and learn about recent biological jungle studies!
Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica Exotic, yet deliciously elegant, the Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica Lodge was one of the first constructions built in a private reserve, surrounded by an incredible pristine jungle canopy.
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DAY 14
Jungle Farming and Cocha Lakes A Day of Jungle Activities After breakfast in the lodge, you’ll visit the Hacienda Concepcion Native Farm, and get to sample some native fruits and veggies that make up the local crops. Visit the Botanical Gardens, too, and learn about the medicinal plants that make up the “Pharmacy of the Amazon.” Return to the lodge for a delicious lunch and some free time to spend on your own. Then, it’s time to visit the Hacienda Concepcion Cocha (natural lake). While enjoying a dugout canoe ride, try your hand at catch-and-release fishing of local species! You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the wreckage of the famous Fitzcarraldo ship, inspiration for Werner Herzog’s award-winning movie. Return to the lodge for a relaxing dinner and visit an Inland Collpa, where from behind blinds you can witness many animal’s evening-to-nighttime routines.
DAY 15
Bidding Farewell to Peru Fly From Puerto Maldonado to Lima. Fly Home. After breakfast, we hop back in the boat, and will escort you to the Puerto Maldonado airport for your return flight to Lima. Watch the windows as the lush jungle becomes coastal desert! Your Kuoda Lima host will meet you upon arrival and help you check-in for your international flight home. Thank you for traveling with Kuoda Travel, and buen viaje!
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RECOMMENDED SAMPLE JOURNEYS TO PERU, ECUADOR, & BOLIVIA
Ecuador’s “Avenue of Volcanoes” 11D/10N
Enjoy the mainland’s charm, with visits to ancient Inca ruins, the Famous Avenue of Volcanoes, and a special visit to what many consider, Ecuador’s pearl, the city of Cuenca.
The Amazon & Machu Picchu 10D/9N
Day 1-4: Quito/Otavalo/Cotocachi Day 5-6: Papallacta Day 7-8: Cotopaxi Day 9-11: Cuenca/Quito
Explore the Wonder of Peru, unlocking the ancient Lost City of Machu Picchu and experience the exotic Amazon Rainforest within the Tambopata National Reserve.
Journey to the Salt Flats of Uyuni 8D/7N
Day 1-5: Tambopata NR Day 6: Sacred Valley Day 7-8: Machu Picchu Day 9: Cusco/Lima
Discover the some of the most spectacular landscapes on earth, including the Salt Flats of Uyuni, Poopo Lagoon, Sol de Manana Volcanic Zone in what is still unearthed Bolivia!
Journey to the Center of the Incas 8D/7N
Immerse yourself in Peru’s rich history with special visits to pre-Columbian sites, including Sacsayhuaman, the fortress of Ollantaytambo and of course the New World Wonder, Machu Picchu.
Day 1-4: Sacred Valley Day 5-6: Machu Picchu Day 7-8: Cusco/Lima
Classic Ecuador & the Galapagos 9D/8N
Embark on the trip of a lifetime, cruise though the stunning and famous Galapagos Islands, where you will learn about wildlife that exists nowhere else on earth!
Day 1-3: Quito/Otavalo Day 4-8: Galápagos Day 9: Quito
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Day 1-2: La Paz Day 3-7: Uyuni Salt Flats Day 8: Oruro/La Paz
Ancient Bolivia & Lake Titicaca 5D/4N
Explore Bolivia’s historic capital and then venture via hydrofoil through the world’s highest navigable lake and its stunning islands including Islands of the Moon & Sun.
Day 1: La Paz Day 2-4: Lake Titicaca Day 5: La Paz
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