Aracari is well aware of the gloomy effects of the economic crisis on many travellers, who constantly try to find ways limit their expenditures, which brings us to point out one undeniably positive fact : LOW AIRFARE, found with regional carriers LAN and Taca, aggressive indeed...
Aracari is well aware of the gloomy effects of the economic crisis on many travellers, who constantly try to find ways limit their expenditures, which brings us to point out one undeniably positive fact : LOW AIRFARE, found with regional carriers LAN and Taca, aggressive indeed…
Aracari's favorite Ecuadorian Haciendas National Geographic Traveler's April 2009 edition places a spotlight on our two favorite Ecuadorian Haciendas: San Augustin de Callo ("There's enough historical wattage around this hacienda to send a few shivers up my spine") and Zuleta ("The feeling? As though I had ridden right into a fable, to a time-honored hacienda that now seems like home") in its feature "Avenue of the Volcanoes". Antisana Volcano Last September we revisited Quito and the Avenue of the Volcanoes in the capital's surrounding highlands. The mission was to scope out the optimal travel experiences for the Aracari client in this stunning region, and after spending a few nights at both Zuleta and San Augustin de Callo we came to the same conclusion as Charles Kulander: "Still owned by Ecuador's former aristocracy and known for their ranch-style hospitality, they offer a glimpse of authentic hacienda life, a lifestyle that includes fine horses, regal accommodations, and bountiful meals." As seekers of the truly "authentic", we consider these properties to be ideal components of Aracari's portofolio of Andean travel experiences. Sights and sounds of Zuleta Since we have a wonderful relationship with the owners of both haciendas and our clients have consistently given rave reviews on both properties, it's always a pleasure to incorporate stays at Zuleta and San Augustin into any Aracari journey. For instance a hacienda stay at the beginning or end of a Galapagos cruise is one of our top Ecuador travel recommendations. Check out the Ecuador Photo Gallery on National Geographic Traveler's website. It gives a colorful glimpse of Hacienda life at these unique properties.
Aracari’s favorite Ecuadorian Haciendas National Geographic Traveler’s April 2009 edition places a spotlight on our two favorite Ecuadorian Haciendas: San Augustin de Callo (“There’s enough historical wattage around this hacienda to send a few shivers up my spine”) and Zuleta (“The feeling? As though I had ridden right into a…
We posted a behind the scenes look at Northern Chile from the James Bond installment Quantum of Solace (2008). While at first glance it might seem a little moonlike and "dry" to say the least, this place has so much to offer and is the best starting point for an adventure to the salt flats of Uyuni in Bolivia, a truly magical place. But back to Chile, it is in San Pedro de Atacama that one can truly experience a desert that is very much alive. With gorgeous sunsets in the valley of the moon, you can reminisce in luxury at a number of hotels in this charming desert oasis. The rooms at the plush Explora hotel are filled with quality linens and custom-designed furniture. There are four inter-connecting pools and saunas, and the food and wine are superb - enjoyed with spectacular views of the Licancabur Volcano. Perhaps the chicest and coziest choice is the fabulous Awasi hotel with its 8 private cottages and individualized excursions. The new Tierra Atacama is another option that boasts a unique Andean spa, priceless Volcano views and personalized service. No matter which hotel you select, a visit to the Atacama is very James Bond...
We posted a behind the scenes look at Northern Chile from the James Bond installment Quantum of Solace (2008). While at first glance it might seem a little moonlike and “dry” to say the least, this place has so much to offer and is the best starting point for an…
Choquequirao has appeared in our blog in the past, and it is only relevant to bring it up one more time as we noticed its appearance in the latest Conde Nast Traveler. Aracari has finally answered the hard question of how to bridge the gap between trekking and a fair-deal to those supporting us with their services, and so far so good. At Aracari we can arrange a trek to Choquequirao which is considered the most difficult of our treks. It is ideal for those wanting to get that "undiscovered" feeling. Be sure to read another amazing article in the New York Times from 2007. More on our different treks click here
Choquequirao has appeared in our blog in the past, and it is only relevant to bring it up one more time as we noticed its appearance in the latest Conde Nast Traveler. Aracari has finally answered the hard question of how to bridge the gap between trekking and a fair-deal…
Photo Credit: eaganj (Flickr) 10 years ago, Peru had one train running from Cuzco to Machu Picchu, it was very likely that one had to travel next to a chicken and suffer constant interruptions along the way. Then Peru Rail happened, they came in and totally revamped the system. Yesterday they celebrated their anniversary amongst the most important people in the travel industry including Aracari. The event began with dancing shadows emulating the different aspects of the 3 different trains, Backpackers, Vistadome and Hiram Bingham. The more executive people gave speeches about what had been accomplished in 2008 and improvements coming in the current year. There was also a presentation about the new logos being used by the company giving it a very chic edge. Aracari is a strong partner of the Peru Rail system as most of our guests travel on these trains when in the Cuzco area. For more info about our trains, contact us!
Photo Credit: eaganj (Flickr) 10 years ago, Peru had one train running from Cuzco to Machu Picchu, it was very likely that one had to travel next to a chicken and suffer constant interruptions along the way. Then Peru Rail happened, they came in and totally revamped the system. Yesterday they…
Kuelap sits leering over the dreamlike clouds of the Peruvian high jungle. When you are there you feel as though you've been let in on a secret and you have it all to yourself. What most people don't know is that the Chachapoyas culture has had it's fair share of mentions, yet still manages to keep most of the tourist flock away, much of this has to do with it's inaccessibility and that isn't a bad thing. The Warriors of the Clouds lived in what is today the Amazonas region, 10 hours to the nearest airport. The clip is from Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981). In this scene Indiana captures the precious golden idol belonging to the Hovito indians, inspired by you guess it, the Chachapoyas. We might not be able to provide you with this type of heart stopping danger but that does not mean we can't provide something just as thrilling! Here's our suggested itinerary for your own Indiana Jones adventure (without the hassles): Chachapoya's Best Kept Secret
Kuelap sits leering over the dreamlike clouds of the Peruvian high jungle. When you are there you feel as though you’ve been let in on a secret and you have it all to yourself. What most people don’t know is that the Chachapoyas culture has had it’s fair share of mentions, yet still…
