La Paz is a metropolis of many nooks and crannies. I had visited La Paz once before in 2011 when I was living in Sucre, but when I was passing through again in 2015, I wanted to get a new perspective on the city. In order to become reacquainted with the cultural and historic highlights, I decided to take a a private alternative La Paz walking tour with Aracari travel, local experts in luxury travel Bolivia, to get to know the city. The tour consisted of taking the cable car (Mi Teleferico) on the yellow line from the center of La Paz to the last stop which is in the 'Satellite City' of El Alto, up above the valley. Afterwards, the guide lead me back down with panoramic views of the valley below through residential neighborhoods built into the hills and then markets before reaching the center. Expert guiding on my La Paz Walking Tour My tour guide, Alejandra, was very punctual and was waiting for me at my hotel at 2 pm. We took a public taxi to the cable car stop and along the way she pointed out various things such as the Alasitas Fair, a market of miniatures open for about a month each year. Bolivians buy miniatures of things that they hope to have in the New Year, such as food, a new house, a cell phone, a car, or a baby. Alejandra provided me with a bottle of water, but as open food and beverages are not allowed on the cable car, it had to be stowed away in a bag for the ride. The cable car ride lasted about 15 minutes and had amazing views of the entire city spreading out into the mountains. Alejandra explained and pointed out different neighborhoods along the way and answered any questions
La Paz is a metropolis of many nooks and crannies. I had visited La Paz once before in 2011 when I was living in Sucre, but when I was passing through again in 2015, I wanted to get a new perspective on the city. In order to become reacquainted with…
At Aracari, we dedicate ourselves not only to providing the best experience for our travelers, but also by supporting local initiatives that make a positive impact in the regions we serve. One of our favorite initiatives is from the Sol y Luna Lodge and Spa, which aside from being a gorgeous luxury property in the lush Sacred Valley not only supports the Asociación Sol y Luna educational initiative, but it was the very reason that founder Petit Miribel founded it with her husband - precisely to generate sustainable funding for the educational projects of the Association. Petit Miribel is a French ex-pat who moved to Peru 20 years ago to work in mining, though since early childhood had always felt a profound desire to advance social justice. About one year after moving to Peru, she was inspired to work in education in the Sacred Valley, where she has lived ever since and committs her work and efforts to the improvement of educational opportunities in the area. Petit was disappointed in the state of schools when she first moved to Peru, well before tourism in the region had developed as much as it has today. There were 200 students without no bathrooms, the roofs were falling down, and getting the most basic needs met was a struggle. With the public schools' inaction, she decided to take matters into her own hands and start a school of her own to deliver quality education in an inclusive environment. This last point is particularly important for Petit's vision for equal opportunities: her own children attend the school and are educated alongside children from the wider community; only those who can afford to pay full fees. The Sacred Valley was hardly a tourist destination two decades ago, so it complicated to lay the groundwork for Petit's vision.
At Aracari, we dedicate ourselves not only to providing the best experience for our travelers, but also by supporting local initiatives that make a positive impact in the regions we serve. One of our favorite initiatives is from the Sol y Luna Lodge and Spa, which aside from being a…
Tailormade trip Peru The Sacred Valley is replete with towns and villages influenced by both the ancient legacies and modern day life. Pisac, which sits about 32 kilometers (20 miles) from Cusco, is a popular place to visit as part of any private, tailormade trip Peru as it boasts a hybrid modern-colonial village lying on the riverbank with a souvenir and local market, and an Inca fortress on a mountain spur about 600 meters (1,970 feet) above. A tailormade Pisac tour is an enjoyable day trip through stunning landscapes, which can be easily combined with other nearby attractions: Chinchero, Maras salt Pans, Maray and Ollantaytambo ruins. Pisac Market For most of the week, the colonial town of Pisac is a quiet Andean village where locals relax in the plaza or enjoy fresh bread baked in an old-fashioned clay oven. Here there is a popular market for tourists where you can pick up an array of souvenirs. But the village comes alive on Sunday when the famous weekly market takes place. Pisac’s Sunday market attracts locals and international tourists alike.The main square gets crowded, especially after the mass, which is celebrated in Quechua. The congregation leaves the church in a colorful procession, led by the Mayor holding his silver staff of office. Pisac Ruins The Pisac Archaeological Site above the village is the largest fortress city of the Incas and one of the largest of ancient America. During a Pisac tour, walking the site in full with expert guiding in Peru takes one and a half hours approximately. For those seeking less adventure, it is also possible to visit the main entrance to the site and walk less, which still affords impressive views down into the green valley. Pisac's setting is postcard-worthy. Visitors can reach the site either by a 10-kilometer (6-mile) paved road up the Chongo Valley, or by a short
Tailormade trip Peru The Sacred Valley is replete with towns and villages influenced by both the ancient legacies and modern day life. Pisac, which sits about 32 kilometers (20 miles) from Cusco, is a popular place to visit as part of any private, tailormade trip Peru as it boasts a hybrid modern-colonial village…
The Galapagos Islands almost always come up as one of the world's bucket-list destinations. Of course, as with any remote location, there is the matter of getting to the islands, surrounded by vast swaths of Pacific Ocean. So choosing between Quito or Guayaquil is a frequently asked question on how to get to the Galapagos Islands for anyone planning a luxury travel Galapagos trip. Quito or Guayaquil - how to get to the Galapagos Islands The Galapagos Islands can be reached by flights from mainland Ecuador departing from either Quito or Guayaquil. But which flight is better? Well, it depends on your specific preferences as a traveler. I have compiled a list of pros and cons for both options (plus, a few more booking tips), so you can make the choice that is best for you. Flying from Guayaquil Advantages to flying to the Galapagos from Guayaquil: Shorter flight time (about 2 hours) No altitude concerns Cost can be slightly cheaper Disadvantages to flying to the Galapagos from Guayaquil: Guayaquil is not as charming a cultural destination as Quito Smaller choice of recommend hotels Flying from Quito: Advantages to flying to the Galapagos from Quito: Plenty to do and see Good range of hotel options Wider range of international flight connections Disadvantages to flying to the Galapagos from Quito: Longer flight time (about 3.5 hours) with early morning start Costs can be slightly more expensive Altitude (2,850m / 9,350ft) When booking flights to the Galapagos, it is essential to ensure that flights are booked to the correct airport. The two airports of Baltra and San Cristobal are located on different islands. It is very important to consult with the cruise or hotel operator to see which flights they recommend. With regards to connections to Peru, both LAN and Avianca offer daily direct connections
The Galapagos Islands almost always come up as one of the world’s bucket-list destinations. Of course, as with any remote location, there is the matter of getting to the islands, surrounded by vast swaths of Pacific Ocean. So choosing between Quito or Guayaquil is a frequently asked question on how to…
With Valentine's Day fast approaching, romance is in the air. But there's a scent of something else as well -- pressure to choose the perfect Valentine's Day destination. In a land teeming with colourful adventure, it can be easy to forget that Peru is also an ideal choice for a relaxing and indulgent romantic getaway. Whether you're honeymooners or celebrating your 60th anniversary, the plush luxury accommodations combined with isolated natural splendor will surely make for a Valentine's Day to remember. We've compiled a list of our favorite romantic locales in Peru so you can plan the perfect getaway for you and your sweetheart for Valentine's Day in Peru. Where to spend Valentine's Day in Peru 1. Mancora - If a traditional, beach resort getaway is the ideal, then Peru’s 1300 miles of coastline, particularly on the tropical Northern Beaches, offer any newly weds a range of options. KiChic, a boutique retreat with a focus on wellness, is an especially luxe option that is perfect for couples. KiChic is the kind of place that has the comforts of a five star property, but without the pretensions. Plus, no kids allowed – perfect for uninterrupted peace and tranquility. 2. Lake Titicaca - Because of its sheer natural beauty, Lake Titicaca is a popular locale for romantic adventures. The vistas seem endless on a clear day, and the sunsets are unparalleled. Suasi Lodge is perfect for nature lovers looking for an isolated escape. The lodge, built with adobe and thatched with native high altitude grass calledichu, is rustic and charming, allowing guests to become more in tune with the environment that surrounds them. All rooms are equipped with skylights and balconies that offer a breathtaking view of the lake. 3. Sacred Valley - With its pristine mountain peaks, verdant fields, and natural tranquility, the Sacred Valley is also a great location for
With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, romance is in the air. But there’s a scent of something else as well — pressure to choose the perfect Valentine’s Day destination. In a land teeming with colourful adventure, it can be easy to forget that Peru is also an ideal choice for a…
Find your hotel in Cusco A hotel can set the tone for your visit to a city, providing a canvas to paint your memories of the trip. When I visited Cusco with a friend from college, we happened to find ourselves in the a perfect hotel to provide such a backdrop for first-time visitors like us: Abittare Hotel. The hotel is in a prime location, on the side of Qorikancha and two blocks away from the Plaza de Armas. The property is secluded, which is a benefit for travelers looking for a bit of peace and quiet. However, it is a little difficult to find -- the door occupies a nondescript wall with only a tiny plaque displaying the name of the hotel to guide hapless guests. My friend and I arrived late at night and thus were quite distressed when it appeared the hotel did not exist at all. Apparently this is a relatively common reaction, according to the amiable receptionist who rushed outside after hearing our distraught cries. Once we calmed down from the initial panic and went inside, we were immediately delighted by the quiet hotel oasis. There are two floors of rooms arranged in squares around open-air plazas. At night, you can look up and see the stars and the Sun Temple’s dome cresting over the roofs in the distance. The décor in our double standard room was simple and elegant, with blue trim on white and gray walls reminiscent of the French-inspired San Blas neighborhood up the street. All aspects of the bathroom were designed as quadrilaterals, from the tiny soaps to the toilet seat. The Wi-Fi was spotty in the rooms, and some noise leaks through the walls, but all our complaints melted away as soon as our weary bodies sunk into the cloud-like
Find your hotel in Cusco A hotel can set the tone for your visit to a city, providing a canvas to paint your memories of the trip. When I visited Cusco with a friend from college, we happened to find ourselves in the a perfect hotel to provide such a…
