Senior Travel  Specialist and Groups Coordinator, Stephanie Rudolph, recently returned from traveling to Peru and shares her tips and highlights.

I arrived during “Dia del Muertos” so the graveyards were full of people. I included a visit to the 

Chinchero market to see the rich textures and textiles known for the area. Chinchero is one of the last strongholds of the Inca culture, its inhabitants retain the use of traditional clothes with bright colors, which they get with natural products. Known as the population of the rainbow, an Andean deity is the connection between the Inca and the upper world, formed by the sun, moon and stars. Therefore, it was the place chosen by the Inca to relax. In his palace he was found dead under mysterious circumstances. According to the gossip of the time, it is believed he was killed by one of his concubines, the result of jealousy. I recommend a visit the archaeological ruins of the palace.

What experience with locals was memorable?

My trip to Misminay, where we were greeted with leis, the women sang, men played music and we were invited to dance with them. Misminay is over 12,000′ above sea level, so it is higher than Cuzco. I think it is an enjoyable experience for travelers to get a feel for rural life in Peru, and experience one on one interaction with a local family. Here you can enjoy a walk and “story time” followed by a wonderful dinner (I had rainbow trout with lots of local vegetables). 

Trekking in the Ausangate region from Lodge to Lodge was a real treat and one I highly recommend. Andean Lodges offer you the opportunity to experience the Andes from one of its richest regions. The landscapes are beautiful and amazing. The unique fauna and flora, as well as the expressions of the original cultures really transform this trip into a memorable experience. The lodge to lodge hike takes place in one of the most beautiful Andean locations. The Sacred snow-capped Mount Apu Ausangate, will turn your experience in the Andes into an unforgettable trip.

 While Machu Picchu is a MUST during a trip to Peru, there are a series of other hikes for those who enjoy trekking adventures. Wayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are prime examples of these hikes, both with breathtaking vistas. My mother joined me on the trip, just as she did a decade ago. 

Our hike up Wayna Picchu this trip was almost 10 years to the date after our first climb, and though we were a bit slower than the first time, were still able to do the hike in about 2 hours (roundtrip).  This photo was our view from the top of Wayna Picchu.

Tell us about some of your favorite hotels:

Sol y Luna **I LOVE this hotel – it is a great value for the money. It has a fun, artistic environment with work from Lima artist Fredrico Bauer all throughout the hotel grounds and rooms. There is a fantastic restaurant onsite, the property is one big, gorgeous garden, there are stables onsite as well, all of which make if great for foodies, equestrians and art-lovers. Really, I don’t know of anyone who would not be happy here. It’s one of those properties where you feel that every detail has been thought of & is definitely a world-class option, but still has so much local personality that when you open your eyes in the morning, you KNOW you are in Peru.

I would also recommend Casa del Sol in Aguas Calientes. It is only 2 years old (2nd birthday was November 1, 2014 ) and has great, attentive service. The food here was some of the best we had on the whole trip. This is definitely a 4-star hotel, but the service bordered on 5-star.

In Cuzco, Maytaq Wasin won my “best surprise” award. It is literally next door to museum Casa Cancha. I was very impressed with this hotel for the price. It had an artsy vibe and a great little restaurant that is also open to the public and one of the best surprises was the view from the rooftop!

Truly, Peru has so much to offer every traveler, whether it be an adrenaline-junkie, an artist, a family, or someone in need of simply exhaling and relaxing, they will find it in Peru.  I’m happy to connect each traveler with the right hotel and activities and look forward to helping others experience the beauty of Peru.

Call or email me at +1 802 760-6546, stephanie@yampu.com to find out more.

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