Abel Cisneros – Luxury Travel to Peru, Galapagos & Bolivia https://www.kuodatravel.com Kuoda Travel Tue, 21 Sep 2021 18:33:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.7.3 What To See and Do In Cusco’s Nearest Jungle City, Quillabamba https://www.kuodatravel.com/what-to-see-and-do-in-cuscos-nearest-jungle-city-quillabamba/ https://www.kuodatravel.com/what-to-see-and-do-in-cuscos-nearest-jungle-city-quillabamba/#respond Mon, 25 Jun 2018 10:10:31 +0000 https://www.kuodatravel.com/?p=27927

Located about four to five hours from Cusco, Quillabamba is a market town set in the steamy brow of the Peruvian Amazon. It’s best known for its exports, like coffee, tropical fruit, and chocolate, but it’s also home to several scenic waterfalls and swimming holes perfect for taking a dip. Read this article and consider a visit to Cusco’s nearest selva town during your custom Peru tour.

Getting There

To get to Quillabamba is a bit of an adventure in and of itself. From Cusco, the journey takes you first through the Sacred Valley, passing through Urubamba and Ollantaytambo before the road turns into a series of ascending serpentine curves. Before the road begins its winding descent into the Urubamba Valley and the town of Quillabamba, you arrive at the famous Abra Malaga(14,100 ft), a pass often shrouded in a dense fog. From Abra Malaga, the descent into the jungle town of Quillabamba is full of jungle vegetation and lined with fruit trees, tea bushes, and coffee farms – very scenic to say the least!

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What to See and Do

The town of Quillabamba doesn’t offer much for travelers, however its outskirts do. Here is what to see and do during your visit to Quillabamba.
1. Coffee and Chocolate Farm Tours: As mentioned, Quillabamba is a popular source of some of Peru’s best coffee and chocolate. Ask a Kuoda Travel Designer about scheduling a tour of one of the local coffee or chocolate farms and learn about the production process straight from the farmer.

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Photo Source: Cooperativa Agraria Cafetalera Maranura

2. Waterfalls: Siete Tinjas, Pacchac, and Mandor are Quillabamba’s three best-known waterfalls where you can swim, climb, and eat fruit straight off of the trees.

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3. River Tubing: Though it is more of a local hangout, river tubing at La Balsa is an option. La Balsa is located at the bend in the Río Urubamba and is also a popular spot for swimming.

Speak to a Kuoda Travel Designer About Planning Your Perfect Peru Holiday

Whether Quillabamba makes your Peru itinerary or not, our Kuoda Travel Designers can point you to the destinations and attractions in Peru that best fit you and your travel companions’ preferences. After all, it’s your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Peru. We’ll help you make it extraordinary. Get in touch with Kuoda today.


Main Photo and Video Source: Municipalidad Provincial La Convención

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Why Arequipa Landed a Spot on Forbes’ “10 Coolest Cities” List for 2018 https://www.kuodatravel.com/why-arequipa-landed-a-spot-on-forbes-10-coolest-cities-list-for-2018/ https://www.kuodatravel.com/why-arequipa-landed-a-spot-on-forbes-10-coolest-cities-list-for-2018/#respond Thu, 14 Jun 2018 13:51:25 +0000 https://www.kuodatravel.com/?p=27878

Arequipa, the volcano-ringed, colonial-era city in Southern Peru, has surprisingly managed to remain an off-the-beaten-path destination. That is until Forbes released and included Arequipa in their article, “The 10 Coolest Cities Around the World to Visit in 2018.” Though it is the second most populous city in Peru, Arequipa offers a blend of Cusco and Lima’s best qualities in a quieter, less congested environment.

Forbes “10 Coolest Cities” List and Why Arequipa Was Chosen

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The way Ann Abel of Forbes arrived at her final list of ten was by talking to the experts at various high-end travel agencies, the ones “keeping their ears on their clients’ interests and their eyes on the adventures they themselves have in every corner of the world.” As a high-end travel agency ourselves with our ears constantly to the ground, we weren’t surprised to see Arequipa make the shortlist. Of course, we have our reasons for why Arequipa is worth a spot on your Peru itinerary, but here is how the super-agents swayed Forbes to include Peru’s “White City” on the list.

“Andean vistas and colonial splendor”

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Arequipa’s “Andean vistas and colonial splendor” are two qualities you’ll notice immediately upon arrival and they certainly do leave an impression. With three snow-sprinkled volcanic peaks looming behind a white sillar stone cityscape, the visual impact of Arequipa is memorable. There’s really no place like it in Peru. Wander its cobble-stoned streets, quaint antique shops, and narrow, stepped passageways and you’ll have to remind yourself that you’re in South America, not Europe.

“A city that’s played a fundamental role in Peru’s gastronomic renaissance”

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Arequipa’s claim to gastronomic fame is its picanterías, traditional, communal-style restaurants that serve up a host of spicy dishes. Forbes calls out a few of the most famous of these dishes, including rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy red peppers), chupe de camarones (prawn chowder) and ocopa (boiled potato in a creamy, spicy sauce). Arequipa’s cuisine is a point of pride, and not just for local Arequipeños, but for the nation as a whole.

“Notable sights”

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Come to Arequipa on your Peru holiday and you certainly won’t be bored. There are so many sights to see, from touring the clock towers of the gigantic cathedral in the Plaza de Armas to stepping inside the Museo Santuarios Andinos for a look at the world’s oldest mummy, Juanita. There’s also the picturesque Santa Catalina Monastery, a must-see when in Arequipa for its stunning aesthetic and architecture rooted in Moorish influences.

Tap into the Expertise the Best Travel Agency in Peru to Plan Your Perfect Peru Vacation, Arequipa Included

With the world’s top global travel agencies taking notice of Arequipa, imagine the local insight one of Peru’s top local travel agencies might have on this up-and-coming travel destination in Peru. Our team of Kuoda Travel Designers are up-to-date on the latest bespoke travel experiences in Arequipa and throughout Peru. Contact us today to begin piecing together a custom Peru vacation perfectly tailored to you and your travel companions.

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Cusco’s Sacred Huacas: Neighborhood Shrines You Can Walk To https://www.kuodatravel.com/cuscos-sacred-huacas-neighborhood-shrines-can-walk/ https://www.kuodatravel.com/cuscos-sacred-huacas-neighborhood-shrines-can-walk/#respond Fri, 15 Sep 2017 16:54:53 +0000 https://www.kuodatravel.com/?p=23304

Cusco is a city full of intriguing and mysterious surprises, many of which travelers will probably never fully understand in just one trip to Peru or short visit to Cusco.

But your trip to Cusco can be different. Allow us to share with you three of the lesser-known, yet extremely accessible, neighborhood shrines of Cusco. You could easily visit some of them during a free day in your Cusco travel itinerary without even needing a guide. Just remember to bookmark this blog post so you have it handy for when you do visit Cusco.

The Huacas of Cusco

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During Inca times, the city of Cusco was arranged along a system of ceques (an Inca word meaning something like line, pathway, or trail) that may have had something to do with the political and/or kinship organization of Cusco. The ceque system in Cusco began at the Qorikancha Temple, and radiated out into 42 pathways, along which one could find hundreds of small huacas, or sacred shrines.

Some of these shrines could be natural features of the terrain, such as caves, rock formations, large boulders, and springs; others were manmade, such as fountains, tunnels, and buildings. Their significance was related to the complex Inca belief system. Fascinatingly, some of these huacas still exist as parts of modern day Cusco neighborhoods and there is no entrance fee to visit them. In fact, you’ll likely have the following three sites to yourself.

Mesa Redonda and Inca Altar :

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Located in Lucrepata, just to the east of San Blas, and just below the street known as Jardines de las Incas, there is a huge somewhat egg-shaped boulder, seemingly stuck in the middle of an ordinary residential neighborhood.

Near the boulder is an equally enormous flat, round stone. Both formations sit among ancient terraces and are divided by a flowing stream, surrounded by Inca stonework. The flat stone is the Mesa Redonda, the round table, which, according to prominent archaeologist Brian Bauer, used to be an altar where llamas were sacrificed to the Apus, or mountain deities.

He believes that this rock is what was called the Pachatusan, which is the same name given to the Apu that towers over Cusco, making it probable that this, along with the huge boulder right near it, called Senqa, “the nose”, were part of a highly significant sacred ceremonial site. This intriguing place actually receives little attention nowadays, but is free for all to view and soak up the atmosphere. Just ask your Kuoda Travel guide to point you in the right direction.

Rumihuasi:

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Located above the San Sebastian neighborhood of Cusco, is another huaca situated along the ceque lines, known as Rumihuasi (rock house)

This ruin is reached by taking a taxi up to the neighborhood known as Carigrande, then climbing the large cement staircases (beware of dogs) until you reach a dirt path. If you ascend the path to the right, there is a trail that cuts left just before the first house: take that path and you will come upon Rumihuasi.

Alternatively, you can take this same path to the left for perhaps a half an hour for a gentler, less ascending trek, and the road will wind around to the ruins. You’ll find a rock tunnel here that has no obvious practical purpose, around twenty to twenty-five feet long, through which you can walk.

Perhaps traversing the tunnel was part of the ritual associated with this fascinating place. When you emerge from the tunnel, there is an open area with carved Inca stonework; look up to find the ruins of rock houses above it, with four or five rooms surrounded by rock walls, some of which are original Inca stonework.

Rumihuasi is a peaceful, calm, out-of-the-way but still accessible huaca, planted just there above the Carigrande neighborhood in Cusco.

Zone X:

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Find the Huerto Bus at the western end of Avenida Collasuyo, just before it turns into Avenida Recoleta, above the Rosaspata Marketplace.

If you board this bus, (which will cost 80 centimos), it will climb up into the hills above Cusco and you will pass the town of Qenqo (with a large, green sign) on your right hand side; beyond this town there is a stand of eucalyptus forest and just after this on the left hand side you will see a sign that says Parque Arqueológico de Sacsayhuaman.

Get off here and cross the street; walking up into the hills, you will come upon the area known as Zone X. This is an area with lots of ruins, remnants of walls, and ancient caves.

There are also areas that contain huge sections of inexplicably carved-out rock. You will find many mysterious niches to explore all over the hillside. From this zone, you can look down on spectacular views of Sacsayhuaman and the city of Cusco.

There are more insider tips where this came from. Get in touch with a Kuoda Travel Designer today to begin discussing your personal Peru travel options.

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Kuoda Travel Receives ‘Stride Preferred’ Designation https://www.kuodatravel.com/kuoda-travel-receives-stride-preferred-designation/ https://www.kuodatravel.com/kuoda-travel-receives-stride-preferred-designation/#respond Mon, 29 May 2017 16:26:02 +0000 https://www.kuodatravel.com/?p=19182

We are happy to announce that Kuoda Travel was recently selected as a Stride Preferred Operator on leading tour and reviews marketplace, Stride Travel. Stride is the largest reviews site for tours and adventure trips with reviews on itineraries and tour operators.

The selection of Kuoda Travel as a Stride Preferred operator supports our rigorous industry standards for quality, professionalism, customer service, and responsible travel.

Kuoda Travel is now among an elite group of worldwide tour operators who have received this distinction from Stride Travel. We are always looking for unique ways to bring Kuoda Travel’s amazing collection of tours to more people, while ensuring that our customers can rely on the top notch customer service they expect from Kuoda Travel.

Our collaboration with Stride means that in addition to the Kuoda Travel website, inspiring tours such as Signature Peru & Beyond, Discover Southern Peru and Peru Adventure Tour are now searchable and reviewable on Stride. It is easier than ever to find great travel experiences in Peru. This transparency ensures our clients will book their next Kuoda Travel tour, knowing they found the perfect trip for their travel style.

Interested in learning more about a custom luxury Peru tour? Contact the Peru travel experts at Kuoda Travel.

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Insider Access Series, Part 5: Culinary Experiences in Peru https://www.kuodatravel.com/insider-access-series-part-5-culinary-experiences-peru/ https://www.kuodatravel.com/insider-access-series-part-5-culinary-experiences-peru/#respond Fri, 26 May 2017 20:51:15 +0000 https://www.kuodatravel.com/?p=19108

Welcome to our 5-part blog series featuring some of Peru’s most exclusive, authentic, and unheard-of travel experiences handpicked by our team of Kuoda Travel Designers. Many of these experiences are exclusive to Kuoda travelers, as we pull on our local connections and intimate knowledge of Peru to create something special and unique for your once-in-a-lifetime vacation in Peru.

Taste the Local Flavors on Your Peru Tour with These 5 Experiences

You can’t go to Peru without sampling the country’s unique flavors and award-winning cuisines. From culinary rituals steeped in history to never-before-seen twists on age-old favorites like beer and chocolate, the food and drink scene in Peru is alive and thriving. Pick one of the following foodie experiences for your vacation in Peru.

Experience #1: Sample southern Peru’s up-and-coming craft beer scene on your visit to Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
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Experience a proper beer sampling tour of Peru’s finest craft beers

Artisanal beer is on the rise in Peru. Outside of Lima, Cusco and the Sacred Valley are hotspots for some quality craft brews. From the award-winning Cerveceria del Valle outside of Ollantaytambo to craft beer bars in Cusco city, there is plenty for beer connoisseurs to imbibe on during their Cusco and Machu Picchu vacation. Let us know your favorite beer style and we’ll happily point you to where you can find it on tap. How’s that for a custom tour of Peru?

Experience #2: Taste Peruvian pisco, sip award-winning Peruvian coffee, and make your own chocolate in an exclusive hands-on three-part workshop in Cusco.
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Enjoy an authentic hands-on three-part culinary workshop in Cusco

Pisco, coffee, and chocolate – has there ever been a better combination? In Cusco, we can set you up for a day of indulgence with local pisco, coffee, and chocolate experts. Visit the Choco Museo for a class in chocolate making and plenty of chocolate tasting. Grab a seat at the bar for a front row view and crash course in pisco and the art of making the perfect pisco sour at Republica del Pisco. Finally, savor the taste of world-renowned Peruvian coffee at the Museo del Café as an expert roaster walks you through the different pours and beans of Peru. This is a must-do when you visit Cusco.

Experience #3: Unearth a true and ancient Peruvian feast: the traditional Pachamanca.
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Experience an authentic Peruvian feast in a local Pachamanca

Common in the Peruvian Andes and Southern Peru, the Pachamanca is a ceremonial Peruvian dish of meats, potatoes, vegetables, and spices all cooked underground in an earthen oven of fire-warmed hot stones. After a highly anticipatory two hours of cooking, enjoy a truly authentic Andean dish that has existed since the time of the Incas. Be sure to include this one on your Peruvian vacation itinerary, especially while visiting Cusco and the Sacred Valley.

Experience #4: Sample and learn the culinary secrets of Peruvian cuisine in a private cooking lesson.
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Learn some new Peruvian cooking skills in a private culinary class

Your private cooking lesson with an expert Peruvian chef begins with a tour of one of Peru’s vibrant markets. Learn about the ingredients that go into Peru’s world-renowned cuisine and learn to cook some of Peru’s most traditional recipes. For an even more food-centric tour of Peru, check out our gastronomic itinerary packages or use them as inspiration for some other foodie experiences you can have on your Peruvian vacation. There is a reason Peru has been named the world’s top culinary destination time and again. Don’t miss the chance to discover why for yourself.

Experience #5: Sit down for an authentic, home-cooked meal with a local family from the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
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Enjoy the intimacy of authentic home cooked meal with a native local family

Don’t let the language barrier stop you from experiencing something as transforming as a shared meal with a local Andean family right inside their humble home. Our Quechua-speaking guides will be your go-between as you delve into a hot meal and an unforgettable cultural exchange. It’s experiences like this one that make international travel so valuable. Seize this opportunity to connect with the locals during your vacation in Peru.

Book a Food & Drink Experience for Your Peruvian Vacation

What will it be? Earthen cooked meal just as the Incas preferred, or a stop at an innovative Peruvian brewery to sample local beers? The possibilities are far-reaching when it comes to food and drink experiences in Peru. Incorporate one of these experiences into your Peru vacation itinerary. Contact a Kuoda Travel Designer today to get started.

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Why Trujillo is Peru’s Destination to Visit This 2017 https://www.kuodatravel.com/trujillo-destination-visit-2017/ https://www.kuodatravel.com/trujillo-destination-visit-2017/#respond Fri, 06 Jan 2017 23:41:49 +0000 http://www.kuodatravel.com/?p=13598

Known as the City of Eternal Spring for its year round sunny weather, Trujillo is a popular coastal destination in northwestern Peru on many travelers’ must-visit lists. With its great weather, eye-catching architecture, rich culture, and of course its beautiful beaches, Trujillo is a one-stop shop for travelers looking for both a relaxing beach getaway and the opportunity to explore some of Peru’s impressive cultural attractions. In this article, we introduce you to Trujillo and its many draws for luxury travelers to Peru.

History
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Temples of the Sun & Moon in Trujillo

Before the Spanish founded Trujillo in the 16th century, it was the site of two great pre-Inca cultures, the Moche and the Chimu. These two highly-developed cultures used Trujillo as their base between 200 B.C. and A.D. 700. Today, Trujillo hangs on to its colonial-era appearance with baroque churches and colorful houses.

*Fun Fact: Trujillo is known as the place of origin of Peru’s judiciary branch and thus has been termed the “Cradle of Liberty” of Peru.

Archaeological Sites
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The Archaeological Complex of Chan Chan

There are two major archaeological sites close to Trujillo: Chan Chan, known as the largest adobe city of ancient times, and the Temples of the Sun and Moon, the largest adobe pyramid in Peru.

Chan Chan was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986. Active around the year 850 AD, it was the home of the Chimu culture, and is called the largest Pre- Columbian adobe city in South America! At one time, it was home to 30,000 people. It consisted of ten walled citadels that contained many types of buildings: homes, burial chambers, temples, ceremonial rooms, and reservoirs. The adobe walls were covered with a smooth finish, which was inlaid with intricate designs depicting fish, birds, sea monsters, crabs, turtles, and other sea-themed representations.

The Huacas del Sol y Luna (Temples of the Sun and Moon) are also found near Trujillo, at the volcanic peak of Cerro Blanco. The Huaca del Sol is built of more than 130 million adobe bricks and was the largest pre-Columbian adobe structure in the Americas! The Huaca de la Luna (Temple of the Moon) is a better-preserved, smaller structure located at the same site.

Festivals
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Peru’s National Dance of Marinera

Trujillo is the “Capital of the Marinera,” Peru’s famous national dance, and also the site of the largest Marinera competition in Peru, which takes place annually in January. It is known, too, for being the birthplace of the Peruvian Paso Horse, a breed of horse known for its elegant high-stepping gait. With its vibrant artists’ community, it is a center of national and international annual cultural events, including The International Book Festival in March, the Marinera Festival in January and the Trujillo Spring Festival that begins at the end of September.

Nearby Attractions
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The Surf Hot Spot of Huanchaco in Trujillo

Yet another attraction located a short car or bus ride away from Trujillo is the beachside town of Huanchaco. Huanchaco is a popular Peru vacation spot, known for its surfing opportunities, its ceviche, and the caballitos de totora, ancient reed boats whose design dates back to pre-Inca times. They are still used today, ridden astride like horses, hence the name, “little reed horses.” Huanchaco’s seaside charm and friendly atmosphere make it an ideal destination for the sea-loving tourist.

Travel to Trujillo in 2017

All of the above attractions make Trujillo and surroundings the ideal Peruvian destination for 2017. With its lovely weather, cultural and arts events, fresh seafood, and fascinating pre-Inca ruins, you’ll want to spend at least several days visiting the City of Eternal Spring. Speak to a Kuoda Travel Designer today to begin planning your 2017 customized Peru vacation to Trujillo and other exciting Peru destinations.

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When You Only Have Time for One: Arequipa vs. Iquitos https://www.kuodatravel.com/time-one-arequipa-vs-iquitos/ https://www.kuodatravel.com/time-one-arequipa-vs-iquitos/#respond Fri, 09 Dec 2016 20:28:33 +0000 http://www.kuodatravel.com/?p=11607

So you’re finally doing it: you finally are on your way to having a custom Peru tour! You’ve have the vacation days, spoken to your boss, set aside the money and gone back and forth with your Kuoda travel designer about your tailor-made custom travel itinerary. You’re doing it! You’re planning your trip of a lifetime to Peru and you want to do it right.

You have a few things sorted out like knowing you want to go to Machu Picchu and see the sites in and around Cusco and the Sacred Valley, but you also know you don’t have the time to see every incredible destination Peru has to offer. You’re going to have to pick and decide where you go and what to do with all of those options. At Kuoda Travel, we are very familiar with this vacation dilemma and have honed our skills in helping clients, like you, make just these sort of travel itinerary decisions. In this blog post, we’ll help you choose between two of Peru`s best destinations: The colonial gem of Arequipa or Peruvian Amazon capital of Iquitos.

The Rundown on Arequipa

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El Misti Volcano lays as a backdrop to Arequipa`s Historic City Center

Arequipa is a proudly regional, Spanish-influenced city whose loyalty to the Spanish Crown was well documented up through the 19th century. It’s known for its strong self-awareness and intellectual atmosphere; it’s the birthplace of the famous Peruvian author, Mario Vargas Llosa.  This unique city is known for its white sillar architecture, picking up the nickname “The White City.” Sillar is a light-colored volcanic rock that is found in walls and buildings throughout the city. With its moderately cool desert climate, Arequipa boasts approximately 300 days of sun per year!

Known for its spicy cuisine, Arequipa is the birthplace of many popular Peruvian dishes and has been instrumental in Peru’s recognition as having one of the best cuisines in the world. Some of the dishes you can enjoy here are rocoto relleno, spicy batter-dipped stuffed peppers, and chupe de camarones, a spicy shrimp soup. Our Kuoda travel designers will be sure to set you up with some of these must-have food experiences while in Arequipa.

Arequipa’s outstandingly beautiful Plaza de Armas and surrounding structures have earned it the distinction of being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its 16th century architecture and art can be found in many places of interest throughout the city.

Points of Interest:

Monasterio de Santa Catalina:
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Santa Catalina Monastery

Located within Arequipa´s historic city center, this is an actual walled village of 20,000 square meters that once housed cloistered nuns for 400 years and was not opened to the public until 1970. It is filled with elegant period furniture and paintings.

Andean Sanctuary Museum:

This museum is home to displays of ancient indigenous textiles, crafts, ceramics and other articles; Its most famous display is the well-preserved Juanita Mummy, a twelve-year-old girl who is thought to have been an Inca sacrifice.

Misti Volcano:
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El Misti Volcano in Arequipa

Misti is one of three spectacular volcanic peaks overlooking the city and can be climbed in two or three days by the moderately experienced mountain-climber. Misti stands at 19,101 ft. above sea level and lies between mount Chachani  19,931 ft. and Pichu Pichu volcano 18,599 ft.

The Colca Canyon & Cotahuasi Canyon:

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Two of the deepest canyons in the world, these canyons offer some truly spectacular scenery and views, including pre-Incan architecture and terraces.  Visit the area at the right time and you’ll be sure to spot a few Andean Condors in flight!

The Chili River:
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White Water-Rafting in Arequipa’s Chili River

Arequipa is one of Peru`s premier spots for whitewater rafting.  Located within just 7km of Arequipa`s historic city center, you will find the Chili River, an adventure`s paradise.  From water rapids ranging in classes of ll – lV, there is a suitable option for all ages and levels.

The Case for Iquitos

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Iquitos, known as the capital of the Peruvian Amazon is a city of some 400,000+ people situated in Northeastern Peru and the entrance to the Peruvian Amazon. It is the largest city in the world that can only be reached by plane or boat. This vibrant, unique, and complex city is highly influenced by the native tribes and the lure of the jungle as well as the European culture that arrived with the rubber boom in the 19th century. Some of the architecture in the town center shows these roots; Alexandre Eiffel, famous for building the Eiffel Tower, constructed the Iron Building on the Plaza de Armas! Iquitos’ climate is hot, humid, and rainy between November and March, and sunny but still quite hot the rest of the year; you will SWEAT when you come to Iquitos. It’s common to cool off with several showers per day or even taking a dip in one of the nearby rivers if you are up for it!

As the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon, Iquitos is full of diverse and colorful influences: tribal crafts from the Shipibo, Bora Bora and other tribes, Amazon pop art paintings with intricate patterns, fantastic animals, and magical creatures, and a large influx of tourists who participate in Ayahuasca ceremonies in retreat centers in the jungle.

The cuisine of Iquitos is unique to the selva, or jungle regions of Peru and includes dishes like fresh river fish, such as paiche and doncella, juanes, a rice and chicken mixture stuffed and cooked inside the leaves of the bijao plant, and tacacho, mashed plantains fried in pork fat. In Iquitos you can also try suri, grilled wood larvae on a stick that you can find in the Belén Market, considered the largest traditional outdoor market in the Peruvian Amazon! Your private tour to Iquitos will most certainly include a visit to this famous and vibrant market.

Points of Interest:

Belén Market:

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A huge outdoor market with wild jungle meats (some of which are illegal), exotic fruits and vegetables, an extensive herb section with all kinds of medicinal plants and jungle medicines, and food stands, including grilled fish, meats and suri, wood larvae considered a delicacy by some.

Quisticocha:

This is an ecological park with beaches and a large lake for sunning and swimming; there are also many animals housed in the zoological section of the park, including manatees and a pink river dolphin!

Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm:

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A short boat ride from the town of Nauta, this sanctuary includes a breeding room for exotic jungle butterflies, which you can see in their caterpillar and butterfly stages; there are also several species of monkeys, a jaguar, and an anteater on the premises.

The Malecón:

This riverfront walkway is the center of Iquitos’ bustling nightlife; Most of the tourist restaurants and many bars and nightclubs are located here and there is often street entertainment in the evenings, including demonstrations of Capoeira and musical performances.

Pacaya Samiria National Reserve:
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Pacaya Samiria National Reserve: One of Peru`s best parks for seeing exotic wildlife

Peru`s second biggest protected natural area is an ideal spot for nature tourism lovers. The reserve protects tropical rainforest ecosystems that contain great biodiversity for the Amazon Rainforest, a Natural Wonder of the World. The main purpose of the reserve is to preserve the flora and fauna resources, as well as a large human population that makes the most of the natural resources.

Luxury Amazon River Cruises:
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Embark on a Luxury Amazon Cruise: M/V Aria Luxury Cruise

A unique experience unlike any other. We highly recommend a luxury Amazon cruise if you choose to visit the area of Iquitos. You will take part in a personalized, luxurious, and comprehensive Amazon expedition while experiencing the exotic Amazon River and all the exotic animals that call this area home.

So, there you have it! For a taste of jungle heat, vibrant nature, and the exotic, visit Iquitos. However, if you are more interested in Spanish-influenced culture and art, volcanoes and the beauty of deep canyons, go for Arequipa. And of course, if you have enough time, definitely do both!

Reach out to one of our expert travel designers to begin planning your personalized trip to Peru. We’re here to help you navigate Peru’s many incredible destinations to create the perfect private Peru travel itinerary customized to fit you and your interests.

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Where to Eat in the Gastronomic Capital of Lima: Part 1 https://www.kuodatravel.com/eat-gastronomic-capital-lima-part-1/ https://www.kuodatravel.com/eat-gastronomic-capital-lima-part-1/#respond Wed, 28 Sep 2016 16:54:28 +0000 http://www.kuodatravel.com/?p=8697

You may have already heard that Lima is often touted as the culinary capital of South America. Visitors are truly spoiled for choice when it comes to excellent restaurants in Lima. These are a few of our top picks, which we think you should consider including in your Peru luxury tour. You even might find these restaurants have you planning a return trip to Lima for another unforgettable meal.

Astrid y Gaston: Lima’s Culinary Kingpin

Gaston Acurio is Peru’s unofficial worldwide culinary ambassador, with his flagship restaurant, Astrid y Gaston, ranked on San Pellegrino’s list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants for the last three consecutive years.  Developed alongside his wife, Astrid, Astrid y Gaston recently moved from Miraflores to the historic Casa Moreyra mansion in Lima’s ritzy San Isidro neighborhood.

The restaurant’s imaginative menu changes every six months, with each dish presented as an exquisite combination of colors, flavors and textures. You can bring your own wine to enjoy with the meal (corkage is free), or let the restaurant’s wine sommelier make a recommendation for you. Astrid & Gaston has also won best wine list of Peru at the Summum awards for the last three consecutive years! Be sure to make reservations well in advance.

http://astridygaston.com/en/

Central: Top 5 World Restaurant

If any restaurant in the city rivals Astrid y Gaston, it’s Virgilio Martinez’s Central restaurant. Chef Martínez has achieved worldwide fame over the past few years, contributing greatly to Lima’s recognition as a leading gastronomic destination. His restaurant was chosen as San Pellegrino’s Best Restaurant in Latin America and the fourth best in the world for 2015. Central’s avant-garde menu takes luxury travel in Peru to a new level of excellence. Using local ingredients gathered from sources ranging from 14,500-foot (4,420 meter) high mountains to places 100 feet (30 meters) below sea level, Martínez’s menu highlights the abundance and exotic variety of Peru’s natural ingredients.

http://centralrestaurante.com.pe/en/

Rub Elbows with Lima’s High-Rollers at Rafael

Rafael is headed by Rafael Osterling, another highly-praised local chef. Set in a gorgeous Art Deco townhouse in the chic Miraflores neighborhood, Rafael offers a chance to dine among Lima’s trendiest crowds. The menu is a celebration of Peru’s eclectic food culture, fusing traditional ingredients with Italian and Asian influences. The grilled octopus with pimento chimichurri, Kalamata olives and garlic confit is among the stand-out dishes. Pizza, sashimi, ceviche and tiraditos all make appearances on the menu in various forms.  Looking for an authentic Peruvian culinary experience? Check out Rafael.

http://www.rafaelosterling.pe/

Taste the Best of Lima’s Seafood at Maido

With its coastal setting, it’s no surprise that Lima is seafood lover’s paradise. Combine this fresh seafood with the talents of the many Japanese chefs that have immigrated to the city over the years, and the result is countless excellent sushi restaurants. One of the city’s best sushi restaurants is Maido in Miraflores.

Another world-renown restaurant, the tasting menu, called the “Nikkei Experience,” consists of 16 courses and features everything from ceviche to traditional chicken stew. Maido’s website put it best: “This wonderful cuisine is the reflection of the Japanese influence on the Peruvian gastronomy. The ingredients of both cultures complement each other as if they had been born to be one. It is an honest cuisine with unique textures and flavors.”

http://www.maido.pe/en/index.php

Try Saqra’s Playful Take on Peruvian Cuisine

Saqra takes its name from a Quechua word meaning “naughty” or “the devil.” It’s also the name of a character from Andean folklore who is celebrated a Cusco’s annual Paucartambo Festival.

For the restaurant, this concept has been reinterpreted to describe the playful, inner child that many of us have lost touch with. Saqra is the part of us that feels compelled to do something a bit mischievous sometimes. As you might expect, the restaurant therefore exudes a more whimsical and low-key ambiance than some of the city’s other top restaurants.

Saqra may not be as well known as other restaurants on this list, but its food is both delicious and delightful. The menu includes variations on classic Peruvian dishes, along with some completely new dishes of the restaurant’s own invention.

http://saqra.pe/

The cuisine alone is reason enough to begin planning your luxury Peru holiday. Contact one of our travel designers now to get started.

 

*Photos provided were taken and are owned by each respective establishment.

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Andean Cock of the Rock: Peru’s National Bird https://www.kuodatravel.com/andean-cock-rock-perus-national-bird/ https://www.kuodatravel.com/andean-cock-rock-perus-national-bird/#respond Tue, 30 Aug 2016 15:36:47 +0000 http://www.kuodatravel.com/?p=8276

Spot the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock on Your Private Peru Holiday

The Andean cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruviana) is the national bird of Peru. It’s a shy, scarlet or orange-colored bird belonging to the passerine order. This bird is mostly found in ravines and forested streams in mountainous areas, 1,600 to 7,900 feet (500 to 2,400 meters) in elevation. This species can also be encountered in cloud forests of Colombia, Bolivia, Venezuela and Ecuador. Spotting one of these beautiful birds is a memorable highlight of any personalized trip to Peru. Let’s learn more about this fascinating bird.

What Does the Andean Cock-of-the Rock Look Like?

A medium-size passerine, the Andean cock-of-the-rock is approximately 13 inches (33 centimeters) in length. This bird is known to exhibit sexual dimorphism, with the males’ appearance being more colorful than the females. Males also have large, unusually-shaped crests on top of their heads. The male’s wings and tail are black and gray. The female is browner and darker in color with a smaller crest.

What’s With That Weird Dance?

The Andean cock-of-the-rock is characterized by its unique mating dance. The dance is performed in a lek, which is a group of males that gather together for mating displays. As many as 20 males may perform together, challenging one another while also beckoning females. These elaborate display rituals show off the males’ magnificent plumage.

The displays are performed in treetops and on the ground, with males defending the territory of their lek from other males. Plan your private Peru holiday in the months of September, October, or November, which is the best time of year to witness this unusual mating display.

What are the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock’s Enemies?

The Andean cock-of-the-rock mating dance consists of flapping its wings vigorously, as well as ceremonial bowing and hopping. The birds’ bizarre-sounding calls can be heard from great distances, sometimes inadvertently attracting predators, such as jaguars, pumas and even boa constrictors.

The Andean cock-of-the-rock is not endangered at this time; however, like many species, the conversion of forests into farmlands is an ongoing threat to their habitats.

How Does the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock Nest?

Nests are built by females using a variety of plants and mud. They’re typically positioned on the sides of rock cliffs, steep gorges, caves and walls, often in close proximately to one another. The nests are incubated for 28 days. The males are polygamous and do not help in the rearing of the young.

What Does the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock Eat?

The Andean cock-of-the-rock mainly feeds on fruits, ingesting them whole and swallowing most of the seeds. These seeds pass through the birds’ bodies unharmed, and as a result, the Andean cock-of-the-rock plays an important role is dispersing seeds and regenerating forests.

The birds’ digestion also causes the plant communities that grow around their nest and lek sites to differ from the surrounding area. As many as 35 different species have been found around a single site.

Are you ready to start planning your private Peru trip to see this bird in its natural habitat? Consider a private Amazon tour and experience a watching adventure with Kuoda Travel. Contact one of our travel designers to feature this adventure in your personalized trip to Peru.

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Cusco: Beyond Machu Picchu https://www.kuodatravel.com/cusco-beyond-machu-picchu/ https://www.kuodatravel.com/cusco-beyond-machu-picchu/#respond Wed, 20 Jul 2016 23:54:20 +0000 http://www.kuodatravel.com/?p=7863

Many travelers pass through Cusco en route to Machu Picchu, but this compelling city deserves more than a short stop-over. Cusco is one of the most vibrant cities in Latin America.

An Incan City at Heart

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Enjoy Cusco’s Spectacular Scenery!

Cusco is situated in the heart of the Andes Mountains, at an altitude of approximately 11,150 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level. Hundreds of years ago, Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire. This powerful civilization ruled a large part of South America before being displaced by the Spanish in the 16th Century.

Cusco fell on hard times after the Spanish conquest, but the discovery of Machu Picchu in the early 20th century signaled the beginning of a renaissance for the city which later received declaration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The innumerable delightful amount of churches and convents are testament to the city’s unique conservation, beginning with the churches throughout the central historic district and the Cathedral in particular as the most striking example.  Between independent travelers and private tours, Machu Picchu and Cusco attract more than one million international visitors every year.

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Cusco Beautiful Church – Iglesia de la Compañia (Church of the Company)

The city is proud of its Incan heritage, with modern Cusco blending ancient traditions with influences from its Spanish settlers. You can sense the city’s rich history as you wander through its old colonial streets building that were constructed using the foundation of Incan stonework and architecture. You’ll find numerous excellent museums all over the city, dedicated to the mixed cultural heritage that has made Cusco such a unique, fascinating place to visit.

Take a Tour of Cusco

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The Four “Suyos” (Regions) of the Incan Empire

In 1950, a terrible earthquake struck Cusco, seriously damaging over half of the city’s buildings. Although numerous colonial churches and adobe houses were left in ruins, almost all of the city’s Inca sites remained intact.

Some notable Inca sites in the city include Koricancha, which was once the most important temple in the Incan Empire; as well as Sacsayhuaman, a citadel found on the northern outskirts of the city.

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Private Family Travel to Sacsayhuaman Archeological Complex

A compact and open city, Cusco’s appeal is further enhanced by its walkability. It’s easy to stroll between various sites, soaking up the city’s infectious energy as you go. Cusco’s narrow colonial streets are a sea of noise, color and smells, making a stroll through the city an intense yet wonderful experience.

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What You Can Find As You Wonder Through Cusco’s Streets

Cusco is also home to some of Peru’s finest restaurants and services. Although Lima is recognized as the country’s Mecca for foodies, Cusco is not far behind. Cusco’s restaurants are using traditional ingredients and techniques to create modern interpretations of classic Peruvian dishes. With Gaston Acurio’s Chicha leading to way, the city’s talented chefs are enticing more and more visitors to come to Cusco as much for its food as anything else.

Cusco also offers some of the top hotels in the country. Unique accommodations like Hotel Palacio Nazarenas and La Casona are redefining luxury travel in Peru, and are consistently voted among the best places to stay in South America. Cusco’s innovative hotels and attractive restaurants add a cosmopolitan flair to the city, while its rich customs and intriguing historical sites connect it to the past allowing the city to strike a perfect balance between history and traditional culture.

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Palacio Nazarenas Hotel in Cusco

We can help you plan a rewarding stop in Cusco as part of your personalized trip to Peru. Meet one of our friendly travel designers and contact us today to get started!

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