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This is a challenging hike. The altitude makes the steep ascents and descents
very demanding. But the scenery and the access to Inca sites that aren't
crawling in tourists makes it worth it. After having Choquequiaro to
ourselves for a full day the hordes of tourists at Machu Pichu were
definitely frustrating.
The full day that we got to spend at Choquequiro exploring the site.
Tomas has lots of experience, and a great sense of humour. Our sense was that
he might be bored with the guide routine, and the constant questions of
clients. Didn't get the sense of personal connection that we have had with
other guides on previous trips.
Assistant guide Jhonny still has lots of work to do on his knowledge, but was
very enthusiastic and I think the group felt a closer connection with him.
Really do need to respect the altitude! Slowly, Slowly is the way to approach
the hiking or you will crash and burn. Also learn to love cocoa tea! The sand
flies were a huge problem (don't know if this is seasonal or constant). Take
LOTS of bug repellant and protective clothing.
Crew (Guides, cooks, wranglers) looked after us really well. In fact, some
days it seemed too well. It is hard to do a step climb right after a very
heavy breakfast or lunch. There was always a several course meal prepared
and waiting.. even on the summit of a major pass.
A strenuous but rewarding trek, topped off with some fantastic sightseeing,
and of course Machu Picchu!
Great diversity of microclimates during the trek, as well as weather changes.
The trip definitely deserves its challenging rating, but the guides and
support staff helped all to enjoy this trek. The local people are welcoming.
This is one of the best treks I have had the opportunity to be a part of.
Hard to say. Exploring Choquequirao in the mist and almost to ourselves
after an intense day of climbing. Climbing Yanama Pass after a snowfall
amongst the glaciers. Arriving in the tropical forests of Lucabamba knowing
that our climbing was over. Seeing Andean condors one day and parakeets the
next. Trying chicha and cuy. And Machu Picchu, glorious despite the number
of people there, which I was dreading after eight days of being almost
isolated from anyone else but our group, but still found completely
breathtaking! Lastly, the group of walkers I was fortunate enough to
accompany on this trip. A diverse and wonderful group of people.
Edwind was simply amazing! His ability to keep the group motivated and
together through some tough climbing is noteworthy. Steep ascents and
different levels of conditioning can really spread people out over long
hikes, but he managed to keep everyone intact. Really responsive to
different members interests and remembering them over the course of a two
week trip. Joshua was also fantastic and very enthusiastic. They were both
loaded with information regarding the culture and natural surroundings.
The walking is strenuous, no doubt, but the rewards are well worth it. As
noted in previous reviews, the ascents and descents are steep and long with
almost no flat terrain. Insect issues previously mentioned are intermittent
but definitely need good repellant. I usually wear shorts and I definitely
paid for it! The weather was everywhere, from snow to tropical sun, so pack
accordingly. The camping sites and hotels were fantastic and the food was
amazing, especially considering the conditions in which it was prepared. All
in all, if you are physically prepared, I believe its one of the best trips
you will ever experience.
Special note to our chefs Beltram and Victor and assistant Isrrael. Their
food was phenomenal, especially considering it was cooked from equipment and
ingredients from the backs of mules. Also to Tibo and his group of
muleteers. It is awe inspiring to watch these men work.
It was a difficult trip for me, but the support of the Exodus staff made it
an excellent experience.
I think the final hike up to Llactapacta, and the realization that we had
made it up and down several steep climbs and descents, and we’re now on the
doorstep to Manchu Picchu, was my most inspirational moment.
Julio Llancay was an excellent group leader. He was always helpful and
understanding, and his interactions with us, the hikers, and the rest of the
support staff, the horsemen, cooks, and assistant leader, set a tone of
cooperation and friendship.
I believe that it is accurately rated as a challenging/tough trip, but after
experiencing the crowds around Manchu Picchu, it was worth the effort to
experience Choquequirao and the less crowded Inca sites.
This trip challenges you physically, mentally and emotionally. It provides
breathtaking scenery, camping in cloud forests, visiting Inca sites in
beautiful and inaccessible places and the chance to observe how humbly people
live in the harsh landscape. It fulfilled all of my expectations and more,
spectacular scenery, challenging walking and indulging in the Indiana Jones
experience. There was great camaraderie and our guides, Michael and Vladimir
were just the best. They had infinite cheerfulness and patience and were
determined that we would understand as much as possible about Andean culture,
past and present. My only regret is that this trek may be 'it', the best
one!
One every day! Camping on Inca terrraces, learning about how the Incas viewed
the Mayu, the Milky Way, standing on the usnu, the ceremonial platform at
Choquequirao surrounded by mountains, ravines and sparkling rivers whilst
clouds swirled around, the cardio workout exploring the Llama terraces,
walking down to Yanoma amongst wild lavender with horses passing, sitting on
a rock edge at San Abra pass at 4200m, surreal bathing in hot springs at
Santa Teresa with bats flitting overhead.
Michael ensured we had the best time. He made everything as easy as possible
for us. He was so patient taking photos of us at iconic spots and being an
archaeologist, we were in the hands of an expert. He has a great approach to
life and was always conscientious. A very genuine man who worked extremely
hard on many levels to make sure our holiday was perfect, which it was.
For those who are not super fit, do some training, legs, core and walking of
course. Take extra clothes, it is hot and sticky and not easy to wash or dry
clothes or towels.
A challenging trek in Peru that managed to combine quiet trekking,
magnificent scenery, the remote city of Choquequirao and the spectacle of
Machu Picchu. Walking in remote areas of Peru, at times surrounded by
snow-capped mountaings, or maybe cloud forest, or then again coffee
plantations. Very varied and interesting at all times.
The guides and support staff added to the atmosphere, providing a friendly
and informative company. Helpful at all times, providing surprisingly good
food in very basic conditions and unexpected "extras" - like the very welcome
visit to the hot springs!
All-in-all and excellent trip.
Having a wild condor effortlessly flying past us at a distance of only 20m!
Excellent! Knowledgable about the Inca history, although sometimes a little
to mystical. Always in control and adaptable to changing situations. Always
felt safe with him, and the other support team around.
Walking poles essential. The bugs bite a lot so bug spray essential,
recommend always wearing long sleeves and long trousers.
This is one of the best trips I have done. This was my first visit to South
America - Peru is a beautiful country with fascinating history. The trekking
is hard but well worth the effort.
There were several, including Choquequirao where it was so quiet (only our
group plus 3 other people) and Machu Picchu, which although crowded is
spectacular. However, the most inspirational moment for me was the San Juan
pass; the conditions were perfect, the 360 degree views breath taking and
several Condors flying around when we arrived.
Frank was very passionate and knowledgeable about Peru and the Inca culture.
Jonnie was a great and enthusiastic co-leader on the trek.
The support team worked very hard to make sure we were comfortable on trek.
Prepare for the trek - it is hard with long ascents and descents but very
rewarding. Take plenty of insect repellent - mosquitos are prolific
particularly on the trek.
I was worried about arriving in Cusco and coping with the altitude, however,
the time spent in Cusco at the start of the trip was ideal to acclimatise.
All Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City) tours, river cruises, expedition cruises, and adventure trips. Find the best guided trips and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Average rating of 4.6 for all Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City) trips.
0 trips from 4 tour companies with 107 reviews
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