Excluding the KLM problems that we have discussed the holiday was a wonderful experience and we will have so many happy memories. The rainforest was terrific and our guide Vico was so helpful and knowledgeable. He always kept us informed with so many explanations of what we saw and his enthusiasm for the environment was infectious. He had a unique ability to judge what we wanted to see and do. A smile was always on his face and he set the tone for our entire holiday. I have to also say that Raul Varela (Aracari in Lima) was brilliant and we owe him and his staff a great big Thank You for all they did throughout our stay. We had full confidence in everything they did.Then we moved on to Cusco and Maria del Carmen Vargas (Aracari) was equally helpful and was always available. She obtained a wonderful guide for our next part of the holiday. Adriel Vilcas was a true 'Andean' and knew so much about the local history and due to his local knowledge and contacts took us to villages and sites that most guides would not have been able to do so. He made the whole area 'come alive'. He was invaluable when sorting out the fiasco of Puno. There the local Aracari representative was only noticeable by her/his entire absence. More of that later. We loved this part of our holiday and Sacred valley came alive because of Adriel's explanations. Machu Picchu was as brilliant and awesome as we had dreamed and all the hotels in this area were everything we could have wanted. The train journey was wonderful and unlike British Rail it was clean and on time! Then we moved to Puno. The hotel said we were not booked in that night and were
Excluding the KLM problems that we have discussed the holiday was a wonderful experience and we will have so many happy memories. The rainforest was terrific and our guide Vico was so helpful and knowledgeable. He always kept us informed with so many explanations of what we saw and his…
Trip with Aracari - testimonial First of all Joyce and I want to say thank you. All the fine staff of Aracari that we met did an excellent job of caring for us and ensuring that every day of our trip to Peru was a wonderful happy adventure. The itinerary that was designed, achieved a good balance of activity and relaxation. I was able to see all the archeological sites of interest to me. We were able to shop for everything we expected to buy, plus a little more. The hotels were well located , comfortable and accommodating. The meals were great; presentation and preparation was excellent. Drivers, vehicles and guides were first class. Here are our feelings about each segment of our itinerary: 1- Arrival in Lima We were greeted by Raul of client relations. He has great people and communication skills. His understanding of "tourism", the processes of moving clients, and the importance of detail, make him a very valuable member of your team. The confidence and calm he displays is contagious. Every time we were back in Lima, his warm and welcoming smile made us feel like we were home. His dining reccommendations were perfect. Driver and vehicle were always excellent.Colonial city tour - John Alfredo Davis - personable, fun guide with a vast knowledge of history and of course textiles. The lunch at Mrs. Gonzales's home was enjoyable, the conversation equally so. 2- The Iquitos / Ceiba Tops portion Was exactly the correct balance of comfort and adventure we were seeking. The canopy walkway at Napo lodge, the shaman's demonstration (and pet anteater), the Yagua village visit (blowgun challenge), the pink dolfins, and pirhanna fishing were all great experiences. Our very good guide at the lodge, Raul Petite, shared his knowledge of his environment and ensured all transfers were trouble free. 3- Shopping with Susy
Trip with Aracari – testimonial First of all Joyce and I want to say thank you. All the fine staff of Aracari that we met did an excellent job of caring for us and ensuring that every day of our trip to Peru was a wonderful happy adventure. The itinerary that was designed, achieved…
The Spanish Conquistadors did more than defeat the Incas in the 16th Century. They sowed the seeds for the evolution of a unique breed of horse, the Peruvian Paso Horse, which is often referred to today as the ‘smoothest ride in the world'. Here we provide information on this special breed or horse and where to see a Peruvian paso horse demonstration as part of a luxury travel peru tailormade journey. The unique characteristics of the Peruvian Paso Horse At the core of its popularity is the extraordinary natural four beat lateral gait that the Peruvian Paso horse unusually passes through the generations. In layman's terms, the forelegs ‘almost prance', like the horse is always on parade – a graceful, flowing motion called ‘termino'. Bred for luxury and endurance by a select group of prominent Peruvian families for over 450 years, this compact, sturdy horse evolved to ride long distances comfortably, often across savage Andean mountain ranges. Unsurprisingly, the breed developed a congenial nature as with the landowners having little time, the unfortunate individuals with a bad disposition were simply discarded. ‘Brio' is the word most often used to describe the Peruvian Paso horse's nature. Deceptively short as a term, it stands for intelligence, grace, pride, dignity, docility and gentleness. These horses are renowned for their love of people, particularly their owners whom they become extremely attached to. After 450 years of quiet evolution and steadfast service, the Peruvian Paso horse is experiencing something of a boom in worldwide popularity. This is particularly true in the United States where it was introduced a mere thirty years ago. Today it is hailed as the ideal ride for the 21 st Century rider, with demand often outstripping supply of these beautiful creatures. Where to see a Peruvian Paso Horse Demonstration Peruvian Paso
The Spanish Conquistadors did more than defeat the Incas in the 16th Century. They sowed the seeds for the evolution of a unique breed of horse, the Peruvian Paso Horse, which is often referred to today as the ‘smoothest ride in the world’. Here we provide information on this special…
Dr John Hemming is an explorer and writer who ran the Royal Geographical Society for 21 years. In addition to Peru, his passion is Amazonian indigenous peoples. His latest book about them is Die If You Must. Brazilian Indians in the Twentieth Century. Here he shares thoughts and top tips for visiting Cusco with Aracari. Dr. Hemming's Insider Insight: Tips for Visiting Cusco Why Cusco? I first saw Cusco in 1960 and fell hopelessly for this strange city. I have twice lived there for a while, and go back whenever I possibly can. Cusco never forgets that it was the capital of the mighty Inca empire. This means a lot to me, as I have written a history of the Conquest of the Incas and another book on their greatest artistic achievement - architecture. What do you miss most when you are away from Cusco? The altitude and the dignity. Cuzco is at 3310 metres (almost 11,000 feet), and I am addicted to the thrill of stepping out of a plane into that cool, thin climate and deep blue sky. I marvel at the way Cuzqueños keep their calm despite living in one of the world’s great tourist destinations. Everyone is unhurried at that altitude, and the townspeople are always friendly but dignified, as befits the heirs of the Incas. (The altitude should not be a problem, provided that you go easy on both food and drink for two or three days after arrival.) What’s the first thing you do when you return? I walk, slowly of course, around beloved streets. The ancient heart of Cusco is quite small, and there is Inca masonry everywhere. Every ruler built a palace of ashlars cut with dazzling virtuosity and you keep bumping into fragments of their walls. But look at the base of every
Dr John Hemming is an explorer and writer who ran the Royal Geographical Society for 21 years. In addition to Peru, his passion is Amazonian indigenous peoples. His latest book about them is Die If You Must. Brazilian Indians in the Twentieth Century. Here he shares thoughts and top tips for…
If you are seeking the perfect secluded break, you could do no better than to follow the route of famous pirates of old to the spectacular Pearl Islands, today an easy 90km reach from Panama City in the Gulf of Panama. Nestled within 14,400 acres of virgin rainforest on the second largest island of San Jose, the Hacienda del Mar, a small, luxury eco-resort is the only hotel on the island. For us, the organic home-grown cuisine and the 12 comfortable cabanas made from the finest Panamanian ‘caña blanca' and pinewood, each with magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean, are reason enough to travel here. But for nature lovers and amateur fishermen this place is paradise. Wildlife is abundant in this remote location, and you can expect to see wild pigs, deer, iguanas, agoutis and parrots among the 100 species of birds recorded on San Jose. While these are considered some of the best deep sea fishing grounds in the world, as 16 black marlin world records testify. With your own golf buggy, you can explore the island stopping at some of the 57 coral white, ebony black and gold beaches and coves found along the irregular coast, or you can simply relax by the pool enjoying the peace and tranquillity. Just a short flight from Panama City, this as J Morris from Boston says is “Truly a hidden gem. It was just so peaceful and serene.” More on Hacienda del Mar
If you are seeking the perfect secluded break, you could do no better than to follow the route of famous pirates of old to the spectacular Pearl Islands, today an easy 90km reach from Panama City in the Gulf of Panama. Nestled within 14,400 acres of virgin rainforest on the…
This month we are celebrating! The restoration of Casa Prado, a dilapidated 17th Century house of major historic, architectural and artistic importance in the centre of Lima, has been given a significant boost by being named, as part of the Lima entry, as one of the top 100 endangered sites 2008 by the World Monuments Fund, more commonly known as the “World Monuments Watch”. Casa Prado Lima The nomination of Casa Prado has been a labour of love for my associates and I for the past two years. The attraction was immediate – Casa Prado has such an incredibly unique history and architecture that it desperately needs to be saved. Built in 1690 using a fascinating amalgamation of European design, indigenous styles and materials, Casa Prado was the main residence of one of the most influential family dynasties in Peruvian history for over two hundred years, and only ceased being a private residence one year ago. The Prado family spawned two Presidents of Peru, each of whom served two terms – Mariano Ignacio Prado (1865-1868 and 1876-1879), and Manuel Prado Ugarteche (1939-1945 and 1956-1962). The family was also renowned for military bravery and heroism in the 19 th Century, with two national heroes proclaimed during this time. Originally built with adobe (mud brick), the house became a showcase of secular Peruvian architecture as it was enriched over the centuries. Today, it boasts many original fittings, furnishings and artwork including leather, paper and fabric wall-coverings, silver and crystal chandeliers and original Spanish and Peruvian wall and floor tiles. The riches extend beyond the structure and furnishings as the house is host to an incredible Collection of decorative art pieces and furniture from many different periods and styles. This Collection also contains over 100 paintings principally from the Vice-royal and Republican times.
This month we are celebrating! The restoration of Casa Prado, a dilapidated 17th Century house of major historic, architectural and artistic importance in the centre of Lima, has been given a significant boost by being named, as part of the Lima entry, as one of the top 100 endangered sites…
