Cindy M.’s Trip to Peru

We are pleased to share our featured testimonial of the month, a trip report from Cindy M., who traveled with her father to the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest, Cusco, the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Lima, Paracas, and the Nazca Lines earlier this year. Read on to find out all about their trip!

The Peruvian Amazon Rainforest

“I just wanted to thank you for arranging the trip of a lifetime and also provide you with some feedback on the unbelievable trip that we experienced. After spending our first night in the Hotel in Lima (which was quite lovely and a welcome sight after a long day of travel) we set out the next day for our stay in the [Amazon] Rainforest. We were met at the Puerto Maldonado Airport by the staff of the Lodge and taken to a rest center which was not only lovely but included a live Butterfly Exhibit. We were transported by car and boat to the lodge and staffs were only too happy to provide a guided tour on route. THE LODGE WAS AMAZING. It is in a wonderful location and we were blown away by our room which included hammocks, deck chairs, our own cooling pool with a screened roof for star gazing and a multitude of wonderful amenities. Sitting by candlelight listening to the sound of the animals and birds was just incredible. Further, every meal was a delight and the staff went above and beyond to ensure that our stay was memorable. The next day we had the pleasure of meeting our guide Hugo. He took us a tour of the river, lagoon and a walking tour of the jungle. After lunch, we did the rainforest canopy tour which was an experience we will never forget. Hugo went above and beyond to ensure that every question was answered and that we got the most out of rainforest experience. He is a real asset to the lodge.

Cusco

The next day it was off to Cusco where we were welcomed at the Monasterio Hotel. We were given a suite which included a second-floor living room. The food, drink, service, accommodation, and staff are exceptional bar none. Dad and I both travel frequently and we both felt that this was the best service we have ever experienced. In Cusco, we were met by our host Carlos who was extremely helpful. He introduced us to our guide for the Inca trail Rueben Soto. Rueben spent a day taking up to other Inca sights, a couple of animal sanctuaries a tour of the countryside, he took us for lunch and then shopping. He was a delight to be with and was able to answer all of our questions.

Machu Picchu

The next day we set off for the trek to Machu Picchu. I have never participated in anything as hard as this was in my life. If it was not for Rueben’s patience and encouragement I would not have completed this task. It is an accomplishment that I do not take lightly and wouldn’t have missed for the world. All the staff (porters, cooks etc.) were wonderful. The meals were excellent (when I had enough energy to eat them). I can’t put in words the feeling that came over me the fourth morning coming of the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu below. I cannot say enough about the kindness and generosity that Rueben displayed. My Dad lost his glasses during the trek and Rueben was able to locate them and return them to us on his own time back in Cusco. We will never forget him. Our stay at the Sanctuary Hotel in Machu Picchu was the icing on the cake. The staff makes this one of the finest hotels I have ever day the pleasure of staying at. The Orient Express Hotel Chain now has a client that will seek out these fine hotels every time we travel. The standards they set and the quality of care is matched by none. Our room was not ready when we arrived at 900 am so we were put in a day room in the orchid garden. We were able to shower, eat, relax and organize our belongings in a private area with beautiful surroundings. Again the food was out of this world.

Lima

Then it was off to Lima, the Casa Andina Private Collection hotel was very nice. We took a private tour of Lima and saw some incredible sights. The staffs in the Hotel were very friendly and helpful. Our room had a nice view and was very large. Something that was very convenient at all of the hotels was the ability to leave the majority of your luggage in a secure location and just take an overnight bag for the various excursions. It is a very helpful and practical provision.

Paracas and the Nasca Lines

Our final adventure in our trip was to Paracas to see the Nasca Lines. We stayed at the DoubleTree Resort which is in a beautiful location on the Pacific Ocean. We had a suite right on the beach. My only complaint was that the staff was not as friendly were not trained properly and overall the service was not great. I have to say we were a little disappointed probably because we had gotten so used to being spoiled. We loved the airplane ride over the Nasca Lines and it was enhanced by the fact that our tour guide in Lima also named Carlos, had provided us with a history of the lines and how they had been discovered. Again I cannot thank everyone involved in planning this trip enough. Bucket List checked and invaluable memories obtained.

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