#day trips from lima peru

[alpacaexpeditions]

Day Trips from Lima, Peru: Alpaca Expeditions

Discover the best of Peru with Alpaca Expeditions' exciting day trips from lima Peru. Explore historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant local culture with our expertly guided tours. Enjoy a hassle-free experience with customized itineraries, ensuring a memorable and enriching adventure in and around Lima.

[lantur]

I got back from Peru this morning after an overnight flight from Lima. :) It's been wonderful to be with Derek and Westin again, and to nap and relax after a 10-day trip!

Unorganized thoughts,

The Inca Trail was the most intense, demanding physical experience of my life. The group my friend and I were with hiked 26 miles/41 kilometers over 4 days, in rough terrain including the highlands of the Andes, the Amazon, and the cloud forests of Peru. The hike was at altitude, at an elevation nearing 13,828 feet/4,215 meters - which I struggled with, coming from living at sea level. I learned that I'm fit on sea level, but NOT at altitude. I also caught a pretty bad cold from another group member overnight on Day 3, which made Day 3 and Day 4's hikes extra challenging.

We were up at 4:30 AM every morning (3:30 AM on our final day to reach Machu Picchu), and due to my slower pace/altitude struggles, I usually had ~10-12 hours of hiking steep inclines and inclines. It was really so hard and I had to be very careful on the steep, rocky steps. The hiking poles saved me! We had to ascend and descend four mountains over the course of our hike. Ascents were really challenging for me due to shortness of breath at altitude. Descents were easier on my cardiovascular system, but required a lot of concentration to make sure I didn't miss my footing and fall down steep, uneven stone steps. Each step was about 12 to 18 inches high, which is significant for my friend and I, who are under five feet tall.

We also camped every night for 3 nights, in tents, which I've never done before. Our group bonded over the struggles of surviving the hideous campsite bathrooms, not being able to shower for four days, finding safe and private places to use the bathroom in the wild, staying warm at night, staying dry in the constant rain on day 2, and our feet and legs killing us at the end of the day. We ate every breakfast, lunch, dinner, and teatime together, and I liked everyone in the group. :) We enjoyed our time together and talked a lot.

We got to explore several Inca ruins on the way to Machu Picchu, and Machu Picchu itself was incredible. The scenery and views along the hike - the mountains, the jungle, the cloud forest - made it worth it, despite how physically difficult it was. I've never seen anything like it before. The sound of the birds singing in the jungle, the llamas and alpacas in the mountains, the butterflies, the rainforest flora... That was amazing.

One of my favorite memories was Thursday morning, when we all woke up at 3:30 AM and hiked in the dark to be among the first at the checkpoint to enter. We all brushed our teeth in the forest around the trail and hung out until the sun rose at 5:30 AM and we could enter the park. :)

My friend and I spent Friday chilling out in Cusco and recovering from our hike. We were SO tired when we got back to our hotel on Thursday night, and so relieved to finally shower and sleep in a real bed. We traveled from Cusco to Lima to Atlanta/Miami to Minneapolis. I got home this morning around 10:45 and I've literally just been sitting on the sofa or napping. Doing post-trip laundry was the big accomplishment of the day, lmao.

This was such an adventure. I'm so glad I could do it, and return safe. It was wonderful to experience South America for the first time, and I hope to go back many times. It was wonderful to completely disconnect with no phone/internet while I was in the mountains. The whole experience was a test of my physical and mental endurance, and my ability to be out of my comfort zone - but as I told my friend when we got back, while I was on the trail, simply focusing on nature and getting through each ascent and descent safely, it let me forget about the things I've experienced this year. My dad dying, estrangement from my mom, the ongoing interpersonal stresses at work. It was a great way to close out my 30th year, which has also been my hardest year.

My 31st birthday is tomorrow. :)

[gemwolfz]

the thing i miss most from my trip to japan has got to be the convenience store food/snack selection. onigiri is so easy to eat (not just in terms of convenience, but as in its rice and i love rice) and there was always such a variety of pastries. and there was that cantaloupe flavored frozen dessert (shaped like soft serve ice cream but definitely wasnt ice cream but idk what it was exactly) that i got on a walk that was sooo so stinkin good

i love being middle class enough to go on big trips ive loved every country ive ever been to. peru was so good it was my senior trip so we had a whole local guide and all our meals were paid for and were very high end (and i was forced to try new things because there were only like 2 options per meal) and although it was a very tiring "we are doing so much every day" trip it too was great fun 10/10 everyone i encountered there was lovely (the only negative interaction being with people from one of the other schools in our tour group, which im still fuming about to this day but i digress) and i would love to go again and especially to spend more time in lima.

just to finish flexing all the countries ive been to my first time out of the country was a trip to england and france. both were pretty. my brother got injured and had to get a cast so we got disability priority for a lot of things which i feel scummy for appreciating so much but also god the lines for things were horrible im so glad we got to skip so many. anyway london was quite lovely, paris as well but i think the main reason i would ever return is because we never got to go to the louvre

anyway enough sleepy rambling i need to actually sleep goodbye

[bmenvs3000f23]

My Experience with Operation Groundswell and My Future Plans with Ecotourism - Blog 5

In March 2019, I embarked on an ecotourism trip to Cusco, Peru, with an organization called Operation Groundswell. You may be thinking, you went on this trip in 2019; why are you still bringing it up?! My answer to that is because it honestly shaped my life! I was in my victory lap (or Grade 13) of high school, looking for ways to get out and experience the world. I knew that I needed to revive myself with travel and step outside my comfort zone, and lucky enough, an Instagram ad popped onto my timeline. This ad promoted ecotourism, something I had not heard of, but I was intrigued. After checking out their Instagram page and looking further into their website, I came across the “Peru: Secrets of the Sacred Valley” trip. Before my research, I had never considered travelling to Peru and had minimal knowledge. I calculated the finances, dipped into my savings, purchased some outdoor gear, and decided to explore what Peru had to offer. I would like to recognize the privilege I had to participate in this experience and my ability to purchase the outdoor gear I needed. Without support from family and some fundraisers, this trip would have never been available to me. I am so grateful that this opportunity came to me and that I was able to gain financial support!

After months of fundraising, saving, and picking up extra shifts, I headed to Toronto Pearson Airport for only my second time and set off to Peru with only a backpack! I embraced my family one last time before setting off for my first solo travel experience. From Toronto, I travelled to JFK Airport in New York -> Lima, Peru -> Cusco, Peru, the final destination. The long commute was exhausting, but I was revived once Peru's warm, humid air hit my face. I was picked up by the local ecotourism leader and transported to our hostel to meet the rest of the ecotourism group!

Figure 1. Cusco, Peru. Photographed by: Brigette Matthias.

While on this trip, I was fully immersed in Peruvian culture and learned the history of the Andes! We spent time making our own granola bars out of local ingredients, picking eucalyptus and creating our own essential oils, collaborating with local environmentalist groups to discuss the issues the Indigenous community faced regarding mining injustices, and spent three days hiking through the pristine Sacred Valley. This trip began a strong relationship between myself and the environment, and it guided me to environmental science!

I was unfamiliar with mining injustices and the mining industry's impact on the earth and the people. Many mining companies take advantage of the Indigenous community in Peru and offer them false promises and monetary rewards. The main issue is that the Indigenous people are told they will gain lots of money by selling their land to mining companies, but they often lack financial literacy and knowledge about banking. Therefore, they are left with no land and no money. Mining and resource extraction is a significant industry in Peru, however, these extractions are responsible for polluting the environment and displacing the rightful landowners. This not only happens in Peru, but it happens in Canada, as well. Many injustices facing Indigenous communities in Canada are due to large fossil fuel corporations and their greed to overexploit resources, displace Indigenous communities, and gain profit. Companies such as these have caused many environmental issues and contributed to climate change. Learning about these hardships in Peru led me to further research these environmental problems. It encouraged me to attend school to learn more about how I can play a role in mitigating climate change and ecological extraction.

My trip also allowed me to learn the benefits of medicinal plants and how the knowledge of these plants was passed down for generations. Our group gathered eucalyptus leaves to be prepared for essential oil making, and we watched a local use their equipment to produce natural products. Peruvians have learned to respect the land and Mother Earth, whom they call Pachamama. They appreciate the earth and use medicinal plants to treat illnesses and support their health. They also use plants to produce natural dyes for clothing and textile art, such as bracelets, headbands, hats, and purses. Learning how the colourful Peruvian clothes were made was fascinating, and I am beyond grateful that I got to see this firsthand.

Figure 2: Brigette and Kait in naturally dyed, traditional Peruvian clothing.

A local guide guided us through the Sacred Valley with his dog over three days. He taught us about the native plants and the importance of the valley, led us to a farm that tended to sheep and lived isolated from the cities, and taught us his native language. This was one of the most influential nature interpretation walks I have ever experienced, and I learned so much about Peru! Nature interpretation truly is a vessel and can allow people to feel connected to the earth, nature, and everything it provides. Ecotourism is also an excellent method for eco-conscious tourists. It can allow local environmental groups to receive funding while spreading their knowledge about their work to the rest of the world.

Figure 3: Brigette and local guide in the Sacred Valley, Peru.

I am forever changed by my trip to Peru. I am thankful that Operation Groundswell offers such beautiful ecotourism programs that allow people to experience the world thoroughly and unconventionally. I plan to travel to Guatemala with this organization after completing my undergraduate studies! I recommend this program to anyone with a love for nature, a backpacking enthusiast, or anyone seeking a meaningful and immersive thrill!

Figure 4: The March 2019 Operation Groundswell Peru Group in the Sacred Valley, Peru.

What places have you travelled to, and how did your travels impact your lives? I’m looking forward to hearing everyone’s travel memories!

To learn more about Operation Groundswell: Operation Groundswell: Backpacking with a Purpose | Join Today!

[2wards-travelling]

Normal service has now resumed After our Galapagos adventure we are now relaxing back in Quito, until our flight tomorrow to Lima for a bit of site seeing before we test the political climate in Peru on our 20 dsy tour of the country, hopefully devoid of road blocks and demonstrations. I Didn't want anything too strenuous today, so we took a cable car to view the City from 1000m higher at 4000m above sea level. A bit of altitude sickness kicked in and despite my high level of natural fitness I became dizzy and breathless. Unfortunately the notoriously changeable Quito weather didn't go our way, but we did get a close up view of the Quito mist, ( see our wildly interesting pics later ) We did get a couple of photos which give an idea of the vastness of the 44Km by 18 Km city. To get there we had to experience a typical Quito taxi ride, on roads where six cars take up only 4 lanes. ( I try to keep my eyes closed most of the journey to prevent potential heart attacks ) I am sure also that these taxis all have a feed from the exhaust pipe directly into the back seat. I think this may also be a reason why I felt dizzy before. I think they should all be fitted with carbon monoxide indicators. The country seems very good at conservation and saving the environment in some areas,but could make things better by adding an emissions test to their equivalent of our MOT, ( assuming they have some sort of vehicle inspection which I extremely doubt)

Anyway onto the Galapagos......

And for any of you who know me and my propensity for motion sickness, I was a bit apprehensive of 4 days on a small boat. ( yes the motion sickness is why I don't move so quickly on the volleyball and tennis courts anymore ) However those fears never came to fruition ( much ), and we were totally blown away by the landscapes, seascapes , wildlife, the boat, the crew and fellow passengers. I encountered Sharks, seal lions ( not seals, there is a difference ), sea turtles, rays, red crabs, frigate birds, flamingoes, darwins finches, giant tortoises and many more, but my favourites had to be the many boobies I saw. We were ably assisted by our knowledgeable and witty Ecuadorian guide who was even funnier than me and based upon our current experiences would recommend Intrepid tours to anyone thinking of making similsr trips and no I am not sponsored by them. Anyway enough from me for now, as even I am getting bored of rambling on, and Dom needs me to change the Disney + password. Have a look at the photos which will follow shortly and look forward to my next thrilling instalment, once we have had the opportunity to experience some delights of Lima, bye for now

[roomchailimited]

Lima’s Legacy: A Journey Through Peru’s Culinary and Historical Gems

Peru’s capital, Lima, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and some of the world’s finest cuisine. As a coastal city with deep colonial roots and Incan heritage, Lima serves as a gateway to both ancient traditions and modern gastronomy. From its historic plazas to its vibrant food markets, this guide will help you discover the charm and flavor of Lima.

Plaza Mayor: The Colonial Heart of Lima

Begin your journey at Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas), the birthplace of the city. Surrounded by the Government Palace, Lima Cathedral, and Archbishop’s Palace, this square reflects the grandeur of Spanish colonial architecture. Take a walk through the plaza, snap photos, and visit the Cathedral of Lima to admire its intricate altars and crypts.

Miraflores: Coastal Views and Urban Charm

Head to Miraflores, a modern district known for its scenic coastline, lush parks, and lively cafés. Stroll along the Malecón, a clifftop walkway offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Don’t miss the Parque del Amor (Park of Love), where mosaic walls display romantic poetry and art. Adventure lovers can try paragliding over the cliffs for a thrilling experience.

Barranco: Lima’s Bohemian Soul

Explore the colorful, artistic neighborhood of Barranco. Wander through its graffiti-covered streets, visit art galleries, and cross the famous Bridge of Sighs—a spot said to grant wishes if you hold your breath while crossing. The district comes alive at night with live music venues and bars offering pisco cocktails, Peru’s national drink.

San Francisco Monastery: A Glimpse into Lima’s Past

Step back in time with a visit to the San Francisco Monastery, an architectural gem featuring intricate baroque designs. Explore the catacombs, where thousands of human remains are arranged in eerie patterns, offering a glimpse into Lima’s colonial past. The monastery also houses a library with ancient texts and religious artifacts.

Museo Larco: Exploring Pre-Columbian Art

For an in-depth look at Peru’s ancient history, head to the Museo Larco. This private museum showcases a stunning collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, including ceramics, textiles, and gold jewelry. Its beautifully landscaped gardens and café provide a relaxing break during your tour.

Gastronomic Adventures: A Taste of Peru

Lima is often called the culinary capital of South America, and for good reason. Start your gastronomic journey with ceviche, Peru’s signature dish of marinated raw fish, at one of the city’s many cevicherías. Don’t miss a visit to Central or Maido, two of the world’s top-ranked restaurants. For street food, try anticuchos (grilled skewers) or picarones (sweet potato doughnuts).

Magic Water Circuit: An Illuminated Experience

As night falls, head to the Magic Water Circuit in the Parque de la Reserva. This park features a series of illuminated fountains, some of which synchronize with music and lights. It’s an enchanting way to end the day and a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Day Trip to Pachacamac: Incan Legacy Outside Lima

If you have extra time, consider a trip to Pachacamac, an ancient archaeological site just south of the city. Explore the Temple of the Sun and learn about the significance of this sacred place in Incan and pre-Incan cultures.

Conclusion

Lima offers travelers a fascinating mix of history, art, and world-class cuisine. Whether you're wandering through its colonial streets, exploring its ancient ruins, or indulging in Peruvian flavors, Lima is a city that leaves a lasting impression.

To make your journey smoother, consider consulting travel agencies like Roomchai Limited, Peru Hop, or Lima Discover Tours for tailored itineraries and insider tips to explore this vibrant capital and beyond.

[manessha545]

Cañon de Autisha (Autisha Canyon): The Ultimate Guide

By: AuthorDaniel Piggott  

Posted onPublished: August 20, 2022

SOUTH AMERICA | PERU

Cañon de Autisha is a stunning place to visit near Lima in Peru. It’s fairly well-known by locals, who tend to visit on the weekends. But, this beautiful area is barely known to foreign visitors. Certainly, visiting this place isn’t a mainstream tourism activity for tourists. Commonly, locals do a full-day Cañon de Autisha tour, from Lima, which involves trekking, rappelling and puenting (bungee jumping). During our time in Peru, Beck and I decided to join the locals and do a Cañon de Autisha tour from Lima.

In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about visiting Cañon de Autisha. Given the fun activities and beauty of the area, the canyon certainly deserves a higher profile with tourists. By reading this Peru travel guide, we hope to inspire you to do a Cañon de Autisha tour.

Visiting Cañon de Autisha in Peru

Cañon de Autisha, also known as Autisha Canyon, is one of the most popular natural attractions for locals to visit from Lima. The canyon is 170 metres deep and is a well-known place for adventure sports and activities. But, as far as we’re aware, it’s not a location familiar to tourists. Indeed, during our Cañon de Autisha tour, there were no tourists in our group, nor, in any other groups. Similarly, at the time of visiting, we couldn’t find any blogs written about visiting the canyon. So, how did Beck and I find out about this place?

Basically, in between our hiking trips in Cusco and Huaraz, and, before and after our Amazon trip (read our Tahuayo Lodge and Amazon Research Center Lodge reviews), we found ourselves in Lima. With some time to kill, we looked at some day tour options from Lima. One of the most popular trips we read about, from Lima, was to Marcahuasi. But, we’d heard mixed reviews and it was only really possible to visit as an overnight trip. So, Beck and I kept looking for another day trip option, preferably to a natural attraction.

We then stumbled upon multiple online tour agencies, prominent on social media, promoting cheap weekend group tours. Luckily, our time in Lima coincided with the weekend. So, these cheap group tours were a viable option. There were many to choose from. But, many trips involved too much travel time on a bus (Cordillera Raura, Cañón de los Perdidos, etc.) Essentially, the best options were day tours to Cordillera de la Viuda, Marcapomacocha and Cañon de Autisha. After some further reading, and with tour availability, we chose to visit Cañon de Autisha. So, where is it?

Cañon de Autisha Location Description and Map

Cañon de Autisha is located in the Huarochiri Province, which falls in the Lima region. The canyon is located around 66km northeast of the capital city. Given some of the winding and bumpy mountain roads in between Lima and Autisha, the drive takes around 4–5 hours.

How To Get To Cañon de Autisha

The most popular and easiest way to visit Cañon de Autisha is by doing a tour from Lima. A full day tour includes roundtrip transportation in a minivan. Transportation in between the sites for trekking/rappelling and puenting, at Cañon de Autisha, is also conveniently sorted. So, getting to and around the canyon is all taken care of. Certainly, it’s easy to get to Cañon de Autisha by taking advantage of the transport offered on a day tour.

Although, it’s possible to visit independently if you’re the intrepid type. But, given logistics, doing a day trip independently is just about impossible. To get there and visit independently, it would have to be over two days. Even then, trying to fit in trekking, rappelling and puenting at Cañon de Autisha over two days, doing an independent trip, would be difficult.

Basically, we don’t recommend visiting independently. In fact, given that Cañon de Autisha is basically unknown to tourists, it’s possible that no tourist has ever visited independently before! So, if you’re brave enough to try, be our guest!

A bus travelling from Autisha to Chosica

Getting There Independently

In terms of visiting without an organised tour, it’s essentially the same as how to get to Marcahuasi independently. You’ll need to firstly catch a two hour public bus or colectivo from Lima to Chosica. Then, a three hour public bus from Chosica to San Pedro de Casta; but, alight earlier at Autisha.

Lima to Chosica Bus: depart from Paseo Colón or Vitarte in downtown Lima. Costs are between S/5–10 ($1–2.50USD). There’s not much information online about this service. A colectivo from Lima to Chosica seems to be the more popular option.

Lima to Chosica Colectivo: departs from three locations in downtown Lima (see interactive map below). We’ve read that people doing this journey have arrived in Chosica by 9am. So, we assume the Lima to Choscia bus departs around 6–7am. Costs are similar to the bus, around S/5–10 ($1–2.50USD).

Chosica to San Pedro de Casta: you’ll likely get dropped at Parque Echenique de Chosica in the centre of town. From there, make your way north, around 120 metres along Jr. Libertad. There, you should find the bus service. If you’re unsure or get lost, ask a local. We’ve heard there are only two or three departures per day at 7am, 9am and 12pm. But, ask ahead to confirm departure times. Of course, you’ll need to alight at Autisha, before the bus continues all the way to San Pedro de Casta. Costs around S/10–15 ($2.50–4USD).

Cañon de Autisha (Autisha Canyon): The Ultimate Guide (travelmademedoit.com)

Canyon de Autisha / Peru (by Kari Josselyn).

[peru-perusals]

Day 14 - Whirlwind & A Lo Pobre

Whirlwind - I met a man from Johannesburg, South Africa at the Inca museum who had arrived in Brazil at the same time we had arrived in Lima. He went from Brazil to Colombia to Uruguay to Argentina to Chile to Peru in the time we've spent in only Peru. I've appreciated being able to see so many different landscapes and cultures around Peru at a depth not possible on a whirlwind trip like that. I wonder if some countries need whirlwind trips to support their tourism sector. Do people travel to only Uruguay or is it more often part of a South America tour?

A lo Pobre - I've had two dishes in the A lo Pobre style and each have added egg and fried banana to the base dish, such as chicken or salchipapas. These are incredible additions that would be a hit in the states on these and so many other dishes, including, but not limited to, burgers, club sandwiches, hash browns, burritos, pizza, and tacos. Just imagine the possibilities! If I ever open a restaurant, I'm definitely adding Peruvian-inspired dishes like these to the menu.

[thetravelleragenc]

The Traveller Agency - Peru

We are a tour operateur in peru, based in Lima. Our travel agency doing excursions full days and multidays to many cities around peru as Lima, paracas, ica, arequipa, cusco huaraz.

Most popular : Full day paracas ica from lima / city tour / Machu Picchu / Montana de 7 colores / salkantay trek / parque de manu 

At The Traveller Agency, we don't just sell trips; we create life-changing experiences. Nestled in the heart of Peru, our agency is fueled by a passion for exploration and a deep love for our country's rich culture, history, and natural wonders.

With a team of knowledgeable experts who are not just travel enthusiasts but true ambassadors of Peru, we go above and beyond to ensure that every journey we craft is infused with authenticity, adventure, and unforgettable moments.

From the majestic peaks of the Andes to the mysterious depths of the Amazon rainforest, we invite you to embark on a transformative voyage with us, where every step is a celebration of Peru's boundless beauty and enchanting spirit.

Welcome to The Traveller Agency, where your dream adventure awaits.

social profile links:

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Business hours:

Monday 9AM–7PM

Tuesday 9AM–7PM

Wednesday 9AM–7PM

Thursday 9AM–7PM

Friday 9AM–7PM

Saturday 9AM–7PM

Sunday 9AM–7PM

Business Email:

contact@thetravelleragency.com

Phone number: 

+51 983 187 354

Website:

Address :

Calle narciso de la colina 183 - 15074 Miraflores - Lima

[indiatajtours]

Taj Mahal tour packages by India taj tours Company.

India Taj Tours Company offers a range of Taj Mahal tour packages to meet the interests and tastes of every traveler, allowing them to experience the magnificence of the Taj Mahal.

1. One-day tour from Delhi to the Taj Mahal: Travel smoothly from Delhi to Agra and return in one day while touring the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort with our friendly guides. Taj Mahal tour packages Take advantage of our local team's experience, delectable meals, and comfy transportation to make the most of your trip.

2. Overnight Taj Mahal Tour: To enhance your experience, spend an additional night in Agra. This will give you more time to see the Taj Mahal's sunrise and sunset vistas. Take in the delicious local food, become fully immersed in Agra's rich culture, and learn more about Mughal history by seeing Agra Fort and other important sites.

3. Jaipur & Taj Mahal Tour: Take a multi-day tour that combines the regal charm of Jaipur with the draw of the Taj Mahal. Enjoy opulent lodgings and smooth transportation between cities as you explore the magnificent forts, palaces, and lively markets of the Pink City, such as the Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal.

4. The Taj Mahal and the Golden Triangle Tour: Take a thorough tour of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur that includes stops at the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Amber Fort, and other famous sites. With a blend of history, architecture, and regional customs, this tour provides a comprehensive look into India's cultural legacy.

5. Customized Taj Mahal Tour: Use our customizable tour options to arrange your visit around your interests and availability. Whether you'd rather have a private tour, exclusive lodging, or something different, like a dawn tour or a photography trip, our experts will create an itinerary that goes above and beyond your expectations.

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Professional Guides: In-depth guides offer insights into each destination's history, architecture, and cultural significance. Travel in comfort: Take advantage of air-conditioned cars, cozy lodgings, and smooth transfers all along the way. Local Experiences: Indulge in regional cuisine, meet craftspeople, and explore undiscovered treasures to fully immerse yourself in the culture. In conclusion, India Taj Tours Company offers a variety of tour packages that highlight the finest aspects of Indian hospitality and heritage. Take an amazing trip to the Taj Mahal with them. Our trips offer to make lifelong experiences amid the timeless splendor of the Taj Mahal, whether you're a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or a tourist looking for inspiration.

ALSO READ-

Two South American neighbors, Peru and Chile, each have a rich past, varied cultures, and thriving economy. Because to their close proximity, they have certain things in common, yet they also stand out from one another thanks to their distinctive differences. This article offers a thorough analysis of Peru and Chile, comparing many elements such as geography, culture, economy, and social programs.

Regional Variations The Amazon rainforest, the Andes mountains, and the coastal deserts are just a few of the varied landscapes that make up Peru. The climates of the nation are diverse, ranging from tropical in the Amazon basin to desert near the coast to temperate in the mountains. Arequipa, Cusco, and Lima are major cities.

Conversely, Chile lies on the western border of South America, bounded by the Andes mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Its long, narrow form allows it to span a variety of climates, from the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the world, in the north, to Mediterranean conditions in the center, and temperate rainforests in the south. Santiago, Valparaíso, and Concepción are among of the major cities.

Background History Ancient civilizations play a major role in Peru's history, especially the Inca Empire, which left a lasting legacy of sites like Machu Picchu. Later Spanish colonization of the nation resulted in a blending of Spanish and indigenous traditions. Important moments in history include the 16th-century advent of Spanish conquistadors and the 19th-century independence movement.

With ancient cultures like the Mapuche and Tiwanaku, Chile has a rich past as well. Much of its current culture was shaped by Spanish colonialism, which started in the sixteenth century. Significant historical turning points include the Pacific War, which established its northern boundaries, and the late 20th century shift from military dictatorship to democracy.

Historical Culture Peru's cultural legacy includes a mosaic of Spanish and indigenous elements. This blending is on display at festivals such as Inti Raymi and saint festivities. Peruvian music comprises traditional instruments like the panpipes and charango, and the country's art is recognized for its pre-Columbian textiles and ceramics.

With a considerable influence from its indigenous peoples, particularly the Mapuche, Chile has an equally rich cultural legacy. Chile's cultural identity is greatly influenced by its literature, which is best represented by Nobel laureates Pablo Neruda and Gabriela Mistral. Folk dances that are a reflection of the nation's rural past, such as the cueca, are included in traditional music.

Language In Chile and Peru, Spanish is the official language. But there is also great cultural value associated with indigenous languages. The Andean areas of Peru are home to many speakers of Quechua and Aymara. The Mapuche people of Chile, especially those in the south, speak Mapudungun.

The economy The mining industry—especially that of gold and copper—agricultural, and tourism are important components of Peru's varied economy. The export of natural resources and the expansion of the service sector have been the main drivers of the nation's consistent economic growth during the last ten years.

With a largely copper-dependent economy, Chile is one of the most rich and stable countries in South America. Agriculture, fishing, and manufacturing are some other important businesses. Strong financial markets and wise economic policies are two of Chile's well-known attributes, both of which support steady growth.

[female-malice]

LIMA, Peru (AP) — A Kichwa tribal leader has been shot to death in an area of the Peruvian rainforest that’s seen high tensions between Indigenous people and illegal loggers.

Quinto Inuma Alvarado was attacked as he was returning from presenting at a workshop for women environmental leaders in the San Martín region of the Amazon on Wednesday, his son, Kevin Arnol Inuma Mandruma, told The Associated Press in a phone interview. Peruvian police confirmed his death.

“He was travelling in a boat,” when assailants blocked the river with a tree trunk, Kevin Inuma said. “There were many shots fired.”

The boat carried six people, said Kevin Inuma, including his mother, brother, sister and uncles. Quinto Inuma was shot three times in the back and once in the head, and Kevin Inuma’s aunt was wounded too, he said.

Kevin Inuma was not on the trip. He said his brother and mother recounted the attack to him.

Quinto Inuma had received numerous death threats over illegal logging, said Kevin Inuma.

The loggers “told him they were going to kill him because he had made a report,” he said. “They’ve tried to kill him several times, with beatings and now gunfire.”

A joint statement from Peru’s ministries of Interior, Environment, Justice and Human Rights, and Culture, said Quinto Inuma was the victim of a “cowardly” attack. The statement promised a “meticulous investigation on the part of the National Police” and said a search for suspects was underway.

“We will continue working hard against the illegal activities that destroy our forests and ecosystems and threaten the lives and integrity of all Peruvians,” the statement said.

Peruvian Indigenous rights news service Servindi wrote in 2021 that the victim’s community had been left to combat illegal loggers alone, suffering frequent attacks “that could take their lives any day.”

The workshop Quinto Inuma had been attending was aimed at helping women leaders of the Kichwa exchange knowledge on how to better protect their land.

Last year, an Associated Press investigation revealed Kichwa tribes lost a huge chunk of what was almost certainly their ancestral territory to make way for Peru’s Cordillera Azul National Park, which straddles the point where the Amazon meets the foothills of the Andes mountains. The trees in it were then monetized by selling carbon credits to multinational companies seeking to offset their emissions.

The Kichwa say they gave no consent for that and received no royalties, even as many lived in food poverty after being barred from traditional hunting and foraging grounds. Quinto Inuma attended a meeting in 2022 with Peruvian national parks authority Sernanp, which was observed by The AP, to discuss the conflict.

The nonprofit Forest Peoples Programme wrote online that Quinto Inuma was a “tireless defender of the human rights and territory of his community.”

The lack of title to their ancestral land has left Kichwa communities in a “very vulnerable position,” it said, “unable to defend themselves from illegal logging” and “with no legal consequences for the perpetrators.”

“The death of Quinto Inuma highlights the impunity that prevails in cases of environmental crimes and violations of Indigenous peoples’ rights,” it said.

[alpacaexpeditions]

Unveiling the Marvels of Cusco: Exceptional Tours in Cusco Await with Alpaca Expeditions

Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, beckons travelers with its mystique and allure. Nestled amidst the majestic Andes Mountains, this historic city boasts a tapestry of cultural wonders, archaeological marvels, and breathtaking landscapes. For those seeking to immerse themselves in the essence of Cusco, embarking on tours in Cusco is an enriching experience like no other. 

At Alpaca Expeditions, we pride ourselves on curating exceptional tours that unveil the treasures of Cusco in all their splendor. Our expert guides, with their deep knowledge and passion for the region, lead you on a journey of discovery through iconic sites such as the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, the sacred valley of the Incas, and the charming streets of Cusco itself. With tours in Cusco by Alpaca Expeditions, every step is infused with history, culture, and adventure. 

One of the highlights of our tours in Cusco is the opportunity to explore the legendary Machu Picchu. Situated amidst mist-shrouded peaks, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. As you wander through the ancient ruins, guided by our knowledgeable experts, you'll uncover the secrets of this mystical citadel and marvel at its architectural marvels. 

But the magic of Cusco extends far beyond Machu Picchu. Our tours offer a comprehensive exploration of the region, from the vibrant markets of Pisac to the archaeological wonders of Ollantaytambo. You'll have the chance to interact with local communities, learn about traditional Andean customs, and savor the flavors of Peruvian cuisine. 

For those seeking adventure, our tours in Cusco also include exhilarating trekking experiences. Whether you're hiking the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or conquering the towering peaks of the Andes, our expert guides ensure a safe and unforgettable journey. With Alpaca Expeditions, you'll not only witness the breathtaking beauty of Cusco but also forge lasting memories and friendships along the way. 

In addition to our scheduled tours, we also offer customized itineraries tailored to your interests and preferences. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique travel experience, we'll work with you to create the perfect Cusco adventure. 

So why wait? Embark on a journey of discovery with Alpaca Expeditions and experience the wonders of Cusco like never before. Join us as we explore ancient ruins, trek through pristine landscapes, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant culture of this extraordinary region. Your adventure awaits! 

[jsbsam]

No room at the inn

Despite receiving an email from BA just as we arrived at Heathrow that our flight to Madrid might be cancelled or delayed due to the weather and, therefore, we might miss our connecting flight to Lima everything went fine. We arrived in Madrid in plenty of time for MM to have a coffee and things were much more relaxed than usual as she wasn't banging on about finding somewhere to have a fag.

She's decided that she's going to give up smoking while she's on this trip. I can't decide whether that's a good thing or not. It's good that she won't be constantly holding us up while she tops up her nicotine levels but the downside is that she'll be even more aggressive than usual and I won't be able to find her by following the smoke signals or the little orange glow in the dark about 4 foot 6 inches from the the floor in the dark!

Anyway, I digress, a bad habit I've picked up from MM who has a well developed tendency to start a story, move into several others, not necessarily connected, and then completely forget the punchline.

Back to our travels. The flight from Madrid to Lima with Iberia was supposed to take just under 12 hours. Not the greatest food, or friendliest crew but a smooth flight that arrived nearly an hour early. We were quite near the front of the plane so got off quickly and headed for immigration control. The queue moved quickly, we'll it did until we got to the front. The official wouldn't allow us to both go to the same passport control desk so I went to one and MM went to another. I got a pleasant chap. He asked a few questions which I answered and I was through. However, while I was being grilled I could hear a lady at another desk asking MM

"how long are you staying in Peru? “.

Answer - *after Peru we're going to Bolivia".

So the lady said "OK, very nice, but how long in Peru?".

MM *then we're crossing the salt flats into Chile".

This went on for some time, I think she'd covered Christmas and our trip to India to watch the cricket next February before I managed to get there and say "about 10 days".

You wouldn't believe the look of relief on the the officials face when she heard that, handed MM's passport back and said "enjoy your holiday". Was that sympathy I saw in her eyes as she looked at me, or gratitude - we'll never know, probably both!

The taxi I'd organised to pick us up and take us to our hotel, the Santa Cruz, was waiting as promised and we were on our way. After a circuitous route to the hotel we arrived, tired, relieved and ready for a quick beer and bed. It was 8pm local time, 1am UK time.

We signed in and then the receptionist started looking a bit awkward. She made a couple of calls and my Spanish wasn't good enough to understand what was said but my body language skills were good enough to know that things weren't going as planned. Sure enough, when she got off the phone she explained to me that they didn't have a room for us. All the rooms were too damp and they'd got the builders in! This is despite me booking the room several weeks ago and not hearing anything from them since! Fortunately, MM was too tired to get into full battle mode and just wanted a bed. The hotel arranged for us to stay somewhere else a couple of blocks away and I'm sitting on the patio there now having a beer and typing out this message while MM calms down in the room.

Not the ideal start to the trip, but we're here now. Let the games begin!

[adventure-diaries]

Best National Parks in Scotland: Exploring the Natural Wonders

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the best national parks in Scotland. From the rugged landscapes of the Highlands to the serene beauty of the islands, these parks offer a diverse range of experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Introduction

Scotland's landscapes are as diverse as they are stunning, ranging from majestic mountains to picturesque lochs. The best way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Scotland is by visiting its national parks. In this article, we'll delve into the top national parks in Scotland, each with its unique charm and attractions.

Best National Parks in Scotland: A Journey Through Nature's Masterpieces

Best National Parks in Scotland: An Overview

Scotland boasts several outstanding national parks that cater to a variety of interests. From hiking to wildlife spotting, there's something for everyone.

Cairngorms National Park: Exploring the Highland Wilderness

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Cairngorms National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its vast wilderness, towering peaks, and diverse wildlife, this park offers hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching opportunities. Visit the Cairngorms for a true Highland adventure.

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park: Water and Wilderness

Famous for its breathtaking lochs and rugged landscapes, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is a paradise for water lovers. Explore the tranquil waters, go kayaking, or hike along the scenic trails to capture the essence of Scotland's beauty.

Isle of Skye: Where Myth Meets Majesty

While not a traditional national park, the Isle of Skye deserves a spot on this list. Its otherworldly landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and ancient castles make it a must-visit destination. Experience the magic of Skye's Fairy Pools and the iconic Old Man of Storr.

Taynish National Nature Reserve: A Hidden Gem

For those seeking a more serene experience, Taynish National Nature Reserve offers a tranquil escape. The lush woodlands, diverse flora, and stunning loch create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely walk or birdwatching.

Ben Nevis and Glen Coe: A Hiker's Paradise

Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak, resides in the Lochaber Geopark, which includes the iconic Glen Coe. These areas are a haven for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. Experience challenging trails, breathtaking views, and a rich geological history.

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[travels11]

Best Restaurants in Quito

Ecuadorian food is as diverse as Ecuadorian landscapes. A country with mountains, jungle, beaches and bustling urban centers The food here is based on the amazing range of fresh produce, meats and fish indigenous to this small place.There are numerous eateries located in Quito which it became nearly impossible for me to go through the entire menu because I cooked almost all my meals. Here I would like to share with you my top choices. I hope that this article provides some useful tips for your restaurant choice.

This travel guide to Quito can help you plan a fun and affordable trip without breaking the bank! 

Neuma

If you seek out a local's opinion on the top restaurant in every city, you're bound to receive a variety of different responses. In Quito the one that has been consistently most often on the list is Nuema that is owned by the chef Alejandro Chamorro. There aren't many chefs in Ecuador's kitchens who have the type of background that he has. He worked in Noma in Copenhagen which is among the most rated restaurants in world. Alejandro worked alongside well-known Peruvian chef Gaston Acurio at the Astrid and Gaston Restaurant located in Lima. As the partner chef (and his wife) Piedad Salazar is a talented pastry chef who manages the majority of the sweets in the restaurant menu.Nuema now has a brand new hotel at The Illa Experience Hotel in Quito We haven't been able to get to talk to yet, however we'll publish the review here once we have. The extremely anticipated luxury hotel will be an exciting expansion to San Marcos neighbourhood of the historical centre. Because many of Quito's top restaurants are in the more modern business district and having the Nuema place here is bound bring many foodies who visit satisfied.The restaurant isn't just famous for its excellent food, but also for its excellent service. It's a comprehensive "back back to the roots" way of looking at Ecuadorian food. The cuisine of Ecuador isn't as popular as Peru's, however it shares the same culinary origins as Peru's Andes Mountains, thick jungle and the ocean. Green plantains are the main ingredient of virtually every dish that is local, peanut is the main ingredient in a wide variety of dishes as well as Amazon products like paiche (Amazon fish) or garabato yuyo (bud of the plant) are used in the menu. The majority of the ingredients come origins from Ecuador and a dedicated farm-to-table program is implemented for land-based products. When it comes to seafood, they collaborate exclusively with small-scale, environmentally conscious fisherman.The local flavor is not only what's served on the plates but also a part of the plates. The cutlery and crockery was created exclusively specifically for Nuema by artisans who hail from the coast in Ecuador..

Cire

Cire represents the dream coming to life of the Quito couple Maria Gabriela Crespo, interior designer as well as Eric Dreyer, chef, who put their respective talents to work to make Cire an institution that is among the most sought-after restaurants of Cumbaya.Signature cuisine is the ideal name for the food, though there is a distinct European influence, from many nations at the same time and perfectly blending with the interior of the restaurant (with touches of rococo, which are colorful and pastiche). The service is friendly and quick. The balcony is ideal for dining during the typically warm days in the valley. Cire is located a half block away from the main park in Cumbaya the small suburban town has grown to become an important commercial and residential center, and also an entertainment and culinary destination.If the innovative twists on traditional Ecuadorian food served at Cire won't convince you The view will. The restaurant is situated on the edge Cumbaya's Parque de Cumbaya, the restaurant is situated on three floors and has a rooftop terrace with a 360-degree view across Quito along with its mountains.From there, you'll be able to enjoy the chef Erick Dreyer's innovative renditions of traditional dishes, like suckling pig, Ecuadorian Black Angus beef and indigenous potatoes. For a price that averages $36 USD for a guest, Cire offers up incredible food and stunning views for a price far more than fair for the quality of food you'll get.

Rincon De Francia

Rincon de Francia ('French Corner') has been delighting its loyal customers since 1977, serving the best quality French and international food.When you arrive to the eatery, you'll be welcomed with a warm welcome upon arrival by Azucena Aragon. She is also the proprietor who will assist you to pick the most delicious dishes from the restaurant and the right wine to pair them with. The food is prepared by skilled cooks under the supervision of the executive chef Mario Aragon, one of the most famous chefs in Ecuador.In the afternoon The atmosphere is pumped by the piano. A few of the menu options that will satisfy your appetite are Stuffed Crab Shell, Sea Bass Flambe with Pernot as well as Three Pepper Escargots or Charolais. The waiters and chefs are able to suggest the best food options for your tastes and mood. It is possible to pair them with a luscious French wine, or perhaps, if you prefer, the classic champagne.Having Rincon de Francia on the list is just one of reasons why we like our fifty Best Discovery List. They don't only give you the latest and greatest items, they also recognize well-established, long-standing gems that don't often make these lists (but certainly should be included).Rincon of Francia is the Rincon de Francia Quito popular restaurant for more than 40 years. Serving traditional French food, such as their delicious crepes Suzette as well as South American and Spanish staples like ceviche and Spanish Omelettes.The cost per head here is slightly in the upper end, with a price of $50USD. However, with heads of state and politicians of state frequenting this restaurant and an explanation for the high price.

*You can book your cheap flights from Boston to Madrid with Lowest Flight fares and enjoy a trip.

Somos

An energetic, vibrant and relaxed restaurant Somos is a fantastic place to enjoy a casual dinner. It is decorated with hand-painted Ecuadorian murals by the renowned artists from the local area Apitatan across the wall, a kitchen that is open and wood-fired oven this modern, friendly restaurant is a fantastic addition to Quito's food scene. Chef Alejandra Espinoza has was a student for a few years, learning her trade from Michelin Chefs who have been awarded Michelin stars in France prior to working in the booming dining scene that is emerging in San Francisco. Relocating to Ecuador to establish Sonos together with her brother their motto is perfect: "Born in Ecuador, in awe of The World". Somos has found an ideal equilibrium between Ecuadorian and French food. This is the genius work of the chef-owner Alejandra Espinoza who draws inspiration of her early years in Ecuador and blends them with the skills in cooking she gained in France.The result is a collection of globally inspired recipes that make use of local ingredients, flavors and customs. You can try the tasting menu that starts at just $25, or opt for the menu of a la carte for around $32 USD for a person.We strongly recommend trying the guinea pig when you're here. It's an old-fashioned dish that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Some include dumplings, shredded pork and dumplings.

[chaletnz]

Welcome to La Paz

I woke up feeling loads better and made sure to rustle around loudly in the room getting ready to wake the rest, since they had kept me up all night. I met up with Paul and we shared a taxi to the airport as we were on the same flight. It was a decent airport in Uyuni surprisingly, I compare all the small ones to Cusco as that being the worst. Uyuni airport only has two flights a week on Saturdays and Wednesdays and it seems like the whole town pitch in to run the airport as their part time job. We sat for a coffee while waiting to board and noticed the huge cloud of dust hovering over Uyuni city in the distance - it was shocking. I wished I had been wearing a mask the whole time I’d been there as it definitely can’t be healthy to breathe that in. I had brought a few masks with me just in case but hadn’t needed them so they’d all been moved to my big bag, and of course this flight was the one where a mask was required and I didn’t have one! They gave me one at the gate along with a sour look though. La Paz airport was the best of the trip so far, a lot more modern than Lima and with more facilities for the amount of passengers so it didn’t seem so crowded. I took the minibus 212 which was destined for downtown La Paz. I sat in the very back corner as I figured I’d be about the last person off, and then it got super crowded in all around me in every other seat. It only cost 5 bolivianos (less than $1) and took about 45 minutes to get into the central city. I hopped out when a lady and her very elderly companion started yelling at the driver asking him to take them closer but he was stuck at a steep one way the opposite way and these people didn’t understand that it’s not a private taxi! I visited Roasters Specialty Coffee in Sopocachi for breakfast of a strong cortado and French toast which in hindsight probably wasn’t the greatest decision right away… it was delicious though after days of not eating. I walked all the way back up to the hotel I’d stayed in previously to collect my bag and relocate it to the next hotel which was much nicer and a better location. I also picked up a reloadable card for the Teleferico system. Basically because La Paz/El Alto cities are built into the mountains, there are a lot of steep hills that make transport connection difficult. Also this city is so extremely busy but with a lot of poor people without their own wheels that there is a huge demand for ridership on public transport. As a result, the Teleferico was built. It’s a huge cable car gondola system that connects all the different neighbourhoods of La Paz and extends all the way up to El Alto. There are 38 stations across 11 different lines and 32km of cable tracks that carry almost 600,000 passengers per day. Each coloured line costs 3 bolivianos to ride and you can transfer from one colour to another for 2 bolivianos so I loaded my card with about 30 bolivianos which should be enough to ride around the whole system for a day. My new hotel was near the Mercado de las Brujas (the Witches Market) so I went for a walk around there and picked up a few souvenirs, didn’t see too much to do with witchcraft unfortunately! I bought a llama pocket tee for 100 which was a little bit overpriced but really cool and not like other souvenir shirts that are all the same. I also picked up a puzzle for Eva and a couple little llama magnets because they’re so cute and cheap - 5 bolivianos here compared to 5 soles in Peru so basically half the price. As I walked on the market turned into a regular street market and I bought a larger backpack for 35 bolivianos as my tiny bag was a bit too small now for the amount of souvenirs I was getting and for $5 I really can’t complain! I reached San Francisco plaza which was crowded like all of La Paz, there was a huge police presence at the roundabout here, lined up like they were waiting for a fight to break out. There were people everywhere sitting on every available bench, step, wall, and leaning against rails making it hard to take a photo of the church between them all, not to mention all the pigeons! Chaos!