New Peru Group Trekking Departures for 2018

Posted on January 12, 2018 by Adventures Within Reach

Happy New Year! As we roll into 2018, we would like to highlight our newest Group Trek Departures for Peru. This is the year to grab your trekking boots, meet new travel companions and explore the magic of Peru!TREKS WITH GROUP DEPARTURES FOR 2018:

5-Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu 
5-Day Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek
4-Day Cordillera Blanca Trek / Santa Cruz Loop
4-day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu
2-day Inca Trail Express Trek to Machu Picchu

*** VERY IMPORTANT FOR THE INCA TRAIL (4 & 5 day itineraries): Permits are already sold out for April, May and June. Now is the time to book for 2018! ***

Inca Trail Machu Picchu

Inca Trail Machu Picchu

1) 5-Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

The legendary Inca Trail takes you through the diverse wilderness of the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, passing numerous Inca ruins on the magnificent stone highway before descending to the famed citadel of Machu Picchu. It starts in Cusco or Ollantaytambo and returns to Cusco with an overnight on the fourth night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Set departures are on Sundays and Wednesdays!

Starting at $1235/person!

Salkantay

Salkantay Peak: One of the coveted vistas throughout this trek

2) 5-Day Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek

This trek is a good alternative to the Inca Trail when permits are sold out!

From Cusco, Trek across the Cordillera Vilcabamba, past Mt. Humantay and Salkantay into the headwaters of the Santa Teresa valley. Hike through lush cloud forest and stunning 360 views until arriving at Machu Picchu!

Group departures are every Sunday.

Starting at $1135/person!

Cordillera Blanca

Cordillera Blanca

3) 4-Day Cordillera Blanca Trek / Santa Cruz Loop

This trek is called the Santa Cruz Loop and offers a hike amidst towering peaks–Huascaran, Alpamayo, Taulliraju, Huandoy, and Chacrerau–in the glacial canyons of Peru’s first mountain national park and biosphere reserve.

2018 set departures for the group rates are every Sunday from April through October. Minimum 4 people. For groups of 2 or 3, please add US$195 per person.

Starting at $495/person!

Inca Trail to Machu PicchuInca Trail to Machu Picchu

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

4) 4-day Inca Trail to Trek Machu Picchu

The legendary Inca Trail takes you through the diverse wilderness of the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, passing numerous Inca ruins on the magnificent stone highway before descending to the famed citadel of Machu Picchu. It starts in Cusco or Ollantaytambo. Arrive Machu Picchu at sunrise on the fourth day; then a guided tour of Machu Picchu, option to climb Huayna Picchu, and ending with your return to Cusco and your hotel.

Set departures are Saturdays and Wednesdays (and some Mondays) in high season!

Special rates for students and teens! Early booking discount of US$25 per person for set departures, booking 6 months in advance

Groups starting at $1110/person!

Inca Trail Express Hike

Inca Trail Express Hike

5) 2-day Inca Trail Express Trek to Machu Picchu

This is an outstanding mini-trip for those wanting “a taste” of the Inca Trail, but either lack the time or energy for the full 4- or 5-day Inca Trail. There is one day of hiking; second day is at Machu Picchu.

NEW FOR 2018! We are offering a set departure on Thursdays

You will need Inca Trail permits for this trek. NOW is the time to book for 2018!

Groups starting at $625/person!

 
READ MORE:

South America Treks for Every Month of the Year

Transformative Father-Daughter Inca Trail Journey

Tips for Altitude Acclimatization in Peru

Ready to plan your next adventure to Peru? Contact us!

Your friendly Peru expert,

Gretchen

Posted in Family Travel, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Peru, South America, Trekking | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

10-Day Bhutan to Bumthang and Fly Back

Posted on January 9, 2018 by Robin Paschall

10-Day Cultural Tour driving to Bumthang Valley and then flying back

With this trip, you really see EVERYTHING in Bhutan, going all the way from Paro in the west to the Bumthang Valley in the east.  To do all this and not have to drive all the way back, you will fly back to the Paro airport, cutting the drive time in half.

We can customize this trip to including more hiking each day, and you can schedule your trip around a local festival/Tshechu.  You can also upgrade the accommodations.

Look closely at the map — you really see everything except for the Haa Valley to the west….

10-Day Cultural Tour driving to Bumthang Valley and then flying back

Itinerary in Brief

  • DAY 1: Arrive Paro, drive to Thimphu (Simtokha Dzong, Tashichho Dzong)
  • DAY 2: Sightseeing in Thimphu (Folk Heritage Museum, National Library, Handicrafts Emporium, Traditional Medicine)
  • DAY 3: Drive to Punakha, afternoon sightseeing (Dochula Pass, Divine Madman Monastery, Punakha Dzong)
  • DAY 4: Drive to Gangtey, afternoon sightseeing (Phobjikha Valley, Gangtey Gompa)
  • DAY 5: Drive to Trongsa, afternoon sightseeing (Chendebji Chorten)
  • DAY 6: Drive to Bumthang, afternoon sightseeing (Jakar Dzong)
  • DAY 7: Sightseeing in Bumthang (Iron Castle, Monasteries)
  • DAY 8: Fly to Paro, afternoon sightseeing (National Museum, Paro Dzong)
  • DAY 9: Sightseeing in Paro (Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Kyichu Monastery)
  • DAY 10: Depart Paro

Pricing

The price for this itinerary with mid-range accommodations:

  • $2495/person for groups of 4 or more
  • $2995/person for groups of 2-3 people
  • $250/person for the flight back from Bumthang (estimate)

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Adventure Life: Follow One of Our Travelers in Torres del Paine For a Day

Posted on January 7, 2018 by Adventures Within Reach

Come experience the grandeur of Torres del Paine National Park with our traveler, Diego Arelano, as he takes us from the cozy and luxurious yurts at Patagonia Camp, up the little-known Pingo Trail and finally to the epic banks of Lago Grey!

With its awe-inspiring nature, intense weather, epic dramatic landscapes and magnificent flora and fauna, Torres del Paine has something for everyone.

While staying at Patagonia Camp, choose from a multitude of various excursions to explore the park with expert, bi-lingual Patagonian guides. Excursions vary in difficulty, length and activities allowing guests to choose what best suites their personal interests and skill levels. Trek through ancient forests, past electric blue and green lakes, rivers and streams with the jagged mountains and captivating glaciers as your backdrop.

Return to the warmth of your personal yurt as the sun slips below the horizon and take part in local quincho, Patagonian barbecue, while sipping a glass of local Chilean wine to end the perfect day!

Want to you book your next Patagonia adventure? Contact us!

Your friendly Patagonia expert,

Gretchen

 

Posted in Argentina, Chile, Family Travel, Luxury, Patagonia, South America, Trekking | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

4 New Luxury Galapagos Yachts for 2018

Posted on January 5, 2018 by Robin Paschall

2018 is a big year for luxury in the Galapagos!  These 4 yachts are brand new in 2018 and offer the very highest standards found in the Galapagos Islands.  They also offer intimate settings of 16-20 passengers.

Infinity Yacht

Infinity luxury Galapagos

Infinity Luxury Yacht

This brand new luxury yacht will begin operations in March 2018.

Her modern design will host 20 passengers comfortably in ample and well-appointed cabins and suites, all with private balconies.

All details have been taken care of: 2 luxurious suites, interconnected cabins, 1 Naturalist guide per every 10 passengers for excursions and activities and a resident cruise manager on board. All these features plus top notch service and logistics offered by Royal Galapagos, guarantee that your clients will have an unforgettable experience while cruising the Enchanted Islands aboard the Infinity.

Whether traveling with your family or a group of friends, or on a vacation or honeymoon, the Infinity will help bring your dream of a Galapagos cruise to life. All-inclusive 4, 5, and 8-day cruises are available to visit the Galapagos Islands’ remote and untouched points of interest, all in comfort and with high quality service.

Discover the Galapagos Islands, one of the world’s most famous and pristine natural laboratories, through excursions lead by expert Naturalist Guides appointed by the Galapagos National Park. They are eager to share a wealth of knowledge about the many historical and natural highlights of the Galapagos archipelago.

Varied activities await you at each of the visitor points to be explored in Galapagos. Kayak on tranquil bays of turquoise waters, take a peek at colorful sea wildlife while snorkeling, and trek through moon-like volcanic landscapes.

2018 Prices:

  • 4-Day Itinerary: $2945/person Standard or $3245/person Suite
  • 5-Day Itinerary: $3945/person Standard or $4345/person Suite
  • 8-Day Itinerary: $6545/person Standard or $7245/person Suite

Origin Yacht

Luxury Origin Yacht Galapagos

Origin Luxury Yacht

The 20-passenger Mega Yacht is the newest and most comfortable yacht with amenities catering to guests with a highly evolved lifestyle. The 142 foot Origin features 10 deluxe staterooms all on the main deck with large windows for ocean views.

Expansive indoor and outdoor social and observation areas allow for easy and comfortable viewing of the islands’ unique scenery and topography. On board enjoy locally inspired gourmet style menus, open bar policy, a sun deck with wet bar and day beds and a fitness Center.

Modern sophistication with understated luxury await with a crew of 13 including high-level Captain, two naturalist guides and a concierge to attend your every need. The ORIGIN is ideal for family travel, offering connecting cabins and triple accommodations.

2018 Prices:

  • $7845/person Double 8-day cruise
  • $7645/person Triple 8-day cruise

Endemic Catamaran

Galapagos Endemic Luxury Catamaran

Endemic Luxury Catamaran

The Endemic Catamaran is synonymous with elegance in the Galapagos Island with a strong silhouette, warm, intimate, and sophisticated style.  It offers the intimacy of a small boat but with luxury and comfort, complemented by personal service and delicious gourmet cuisine.  It has 8 cabins for 16 passengers.  Starting operations on July 1, 2018.

2018 Prices:

  • 4-Day Itinerary: $3345/person
  • 5-Day Itinerary: $4395/person
  • 6-Day Itinerary: $5295/person
  • 8-Day Itinerary: $7045/person

Camila Trimaran

Camila Trimaran

Camila Trimaran

Brand new in March 2018, this luxury trimaran is very stable and can move quickly between the islands.  It has 8 cabins for 16 passengers.  Each large cabin has a private balcony.  It also has a dining room, lounge, al fresco dining area, sun deck, kayaks, and jacuzzi.

2018 Prices:

  • 4-Day Itinerary: $2945/person
  • 5-Day Itinerary: $3945/person
  • 8-Day Itinerary: $6195/person
Posted in Ecuador, Galapagos | Leave a comment

South America Treks for Every Month of the Year (October, November & December)

Posted on January 3, 2018 by Adventures Within Reach

This post concludes our “Trek a Month South America” overview highlighting our favorite treks each month to help you pick a great adventure for your travel dates. Check the final three months of the year and what we’ve got in store!

>> Read about top treks for January, February and March! >>

>> Read about top treks for April, May and June! >>

>> Read about top treks for July, August and September! >>

>> Read about top treks for October, November and December! >>

Salta

Salta Trekking to the Clouds

OCTOBER: 4-Day Northwest Argentina: Trekking to the Clouds

This trek begins at the foot of Cerro El Golgota in Ingeniero Maury and ends four days later in Quebrada de San Lorenzo, right next to Salta city. Explore an old Inca trail amid landscapes of great contrasts. The first part of the tour takes place in a dry and arid climate. During the final segment we will enter the rainforests of Salta’s Yunga. Along the route, we will be in contact with nature and the culture of a special area of Salta.

Starting at the Quebrada del Toro, our first ascent will be surrounded by cardones (giant cacti) and will reveal the snowy peaks of Cerro San Miguel and Acay. The trail leads to the archaeological site of “Sillon del Inca” (Inca Seat), ruins that once belonged to the southern part of the Inca empire. We will continue the trip visiting the local inhabitants of the area, who work the fields and breed livestock over in villages over 3,000 meters high. Camp sites and dinners will be the time to share moments with the group and sometimes with locals when we camp near their homes at night.

GROUP DEPARTURE DATES 2018:

  • April 28**
  • May 26**
  • June 23
  • August 25**
  • September 22**
  • October 27
  • November 24

Private departures available upon request (2 person minimum)

  • *New Moon
  • **Full Moon

PRICE: $590 per person (group departure)

Ecuador

Trekking in Ecuador

NOVEMBER: 14-Day Seven Ecuadorian Peaks With Cotopaxi and Chimborazo

A program directed specifically to mountain lovers. This trip is also relatively demanding physically.

The treks and the ascents are linked to assure a perfect acclimatization to the altitude and to increase your physical resistance.

You will pass almost 14 days at high altitude and will climb 7 of the most famous Ecuadorian volcanoes: Fuya-Fuya, Culbiche, Imbabura, Pasochoa, Illinizas, Cotopaxi and Chimborazo.

The itinerary also includes several days of rest and recovery that will allow you to discover 4 of the most famous tourist attractions in Ecuador: the old colonial city of Quito, the equator, the famous Indian market of Otavalo and the charming thermal city of Banos.

PRICE: Available upon request

Colombia

Los Nevados Trekking

DECEMBER: 8-Day Los Nevados Trekking

Enjoy an awesome mix of city, mountains, and rural coffee country on this custom, private trekking tour that you can start any day of the year. The trek has a number of days at over 12,460 feet (3,800 meters) above sea level so we would consider it physically challenging (similar to the Inca Trail). Walking can be adapted, however, to suit a traveler’s needs and pace; that is, the distance and inclinations can be increased or decreased in difficulty based on a traveler’s needs. Your baggage, food, and equipment will be carried by mules for the duration of the trek; you need only carry your daypack. A logistics manager, chef, and trek leader make up the trek team with additional helpers depending on group size. Camps will be made ready for when you arrive and the trek has been designed so you typically arrive for lunch, with the rest of the afternoon to relax and take part in further activities like optional day hikes. 3-season Marmot tents, warm 0 degree F Marmot sleeping bags, Thermarests, and sleeping bag liners are all provided for you along with lighting and a toilet tent. Depending on a given location, food may be served either in a support structure or a mess tent. All meals on trek are included, plus meals in remote locations, such as the flora and fauna sanctuary of Otun-Quimbaya.

For your city stays, you’ll stay in refined 3-star hotels with excellent service and ratings in both Bogota and Cartagena. These can easily be changed for 5-star options on request. In the cities, most meals are up to you, since there are so many choices to pick from, but we will help with transportation if necessary, so you can experience some fabulous local dining.

PRICE: Available upon request

Want to join one of these treks? Have questions? Contact us!

Your friendly South America expert,

Gretchen

Posted in Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Family Travel, Inca Trail, South America, Trekking | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

6 Tips to Prepare for Climbing Kilimanjaro

Posted on January 1, 2018 by Adventures Within Reach

For many people, climbing Kilimanjaro is one of the hardest things they have done.  Being prepared will increase your chances of summiting, and will just make the hike more enjoyable.  Here are some tips to prepare for climbing Kilimanjaro you may have missed!

1) Fitness

Cardio should be the core of your training program.  Get out and hike, run, bicycle, swim, whatever you like to do.  The more in shape you are, the easier the hike will be.  With reduced oxygen levels on the mountain, a strong cardiovascular system will help in reaching the summit.

Strength is the next area to work on.  A strong body will help carry you to the top!

And finally, trim down your weight.  The less you have to carry up the mountain, the easier it will be.

2) Train with day pack

Get out and walk, walk, walk.  Go up and down hills as much as you can.  And wear your day pack.  It will be light, but it can feel like it weighs a ton if you are not used to it.  This will also test out what items you will need for hiking for the day.

3) Get the gear

Staying warm and dry is so important.  Get the right clothes and sleeping bag.  They need to be warm, moisture wicking, and lots of layers.  Spend a little money to get good gear that won’t rub in the wrong places, that dries quickly, and is comfortable.

4) Break in boots

How many times have you heard that?  It is still so important on Kilimanjaro.  Also test out your socks, and wear your boots up hills and down hills to see how manage in both extremes.

5) Talk to doctor

We highly recommend that you visit your primary doctor to discuss high altitude, fitness, pre-existing conditions, and general health.  The climb is strenuous, and your doctor can provide guidelines whether you should do the trek and also on training.

Talk your doctor about vaccinations, or go to a travel medicine clinic.

6) Don’t over pack

You are limited to 15kg / 33lbs in the bag that you give to your porter.  Bring the right gear, an you won’t need to bring too much.  Share common items with your travel partners so that you don’t bring double of things.

Posted in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, Trekking | Leave a comment

South America Treks for Every Month of the Year (July, August & September)

Posted on December 29, 2017 by Adventures Within Reach

This post is the third installment of the Adventures Within Reach “Trek a Month South America” overview highlighting our favorite treks each month to help you pick a great adventure for your travel dates. We’ll write 1 more post, with the last 3 months of the year with the best treks for those times of year.

>> Read about top treks for January, February and March! >>

>> Read about top treks for April, May and June! >>

>> Read about top treks for July, August and September! >>

>> Read about top treks for October, November and December! >>

Brazil

Trekking in Chapada Diamantina

JULY: 6-Day Trekking the fantasy world of Chapada Diamantina

Near Salvador we find the most important trekking spot in Brazil: Chapada Diamantina. Large quantities of rivers are born in this spectacular region, forming over the years, beautiful streams, bubbling waterfalls and clear, natural pools. Some natural attractions include the Cachoeira da Fumaca, with its free fall of 380 meters, or the dazzling cave, Poco Encantado. Throughout the trek, the marvelous natural landscape will continue to surprise and amaze.

PRICE: $1095 per person (private based on 2 people)

Lencois Maranhenses

Trekking through the dunes of Lencois Maranhenses

AUGUST: 4-Day Barefoot Trekking through the Hidden Pools and Dunes of Lencois Maranhenses

The name of this park makes reference to the immense dunes that look like a bed sheet (lencois) spread across the land. Near Sao Luis, this park is divided into Grandes Lencois and Pequenos Lencois, separated by Rio Preguicas. The zone contains beaches, mangrove swamps, lagoons and dunes, and it was declared a National Park in 1981. This experience takes us across the shifting dunes of fine white sand and crystal clear blue lagoons that seem to glow under the sunshine or the moonlight; a true spectacle for our eyes.

  • This trip can be made throughout the year. Between January and April the weather is unstable, from May to September is the period when lagoons are fuller, and from October to December is the dry season when it’s windier and there is less tourism.
  • The period of June and July are the celebrations of Sao Joao in the region, there is less accommodation availability, but there are many folk festivals on the weekends.

PRICE: $985 per person (private based on 2 people)

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, Inca Trail Trek

SEPTEMBER: 5-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The legendary Inca Trail takes you through the diverse wilderness of the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, passing numerous Inca ruins on the magnificent stone highway before descending to the famed citadel of Machu Picchu. It starts in Cusco or Ollantaytambo and returns to Cusco with an overnight at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

  • Set departures are on Sundays and Wednesdays.
  • Minimum two people.
  • Groups are limited to 12 people, but most groups are smaller than that.
  • Season: All year, except February, when the Inca Trail is closed; best season for trekking is April through October. Note that you may start your trek on any day of the week for a private trek. Check with us for availability! Now is the time to book your trek for 2018! Permits for 2018 go on sale in October 2017.

Groups to Join:

If you are a single traveler or a small group that wants to join others, we have a number of groups that you can join. Permits may be sold out for some of departures so it is best to contact us for availability. We can help with an alternative trek, that is just as challenging as the Inca Trail and gets you to Machu Picchu!

 

PRICE: $1235 per person (group departure, budget accommodations)

Want to join one of these treks? Have questions? Contact us!

Your friendly South America expert,

Gretchen

Posted in Brazil, Family Travel, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Peru, South America, Trekking | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Top 13 Things to do in Zanzibar

Posted on December 28, 2017 by Adventures Within Reach

Some of our favorite things to do in Zanzibar!  In no particular order — they are all great!  Start with our 4-Day Best of Zanzibar Trip >>

1) Scuba/Snorkeling

Scuba Diving in Zanzibar

Scuba Diving in Zanzibar

Arguably the best diving is around Mnemba Island off the northeast coast of  Zanzibar.  However, there is also great diving from Stone Town, including some wreck diving.  If your hotel does not have a dive center, there is certainly one nearby!

The snorkeling at these dive sites is also amazing.  Also popular is snorkeling with wild dolphins on the southwest region on the island.

2) Forodhani Park nighttime street market

Forodhani Park nighttime street market

Forodhani Park nighttime street market

This is a fun food market on the water’s edge in Stone Town, an easy walk from any downtown hotel.

It is lively and popular even with locals.  Even if you don’t eat dinner here, it is worth the walk around for the ambiance.

3) Wildlife

Red Colobus Monkeys at Jozani Forest Zanzibar

Red Colobus Monkeys at Jozani Forest Zanzibar

There is some unique wildlife to see on Zanzibar!  The Jozani National Park is the most famous with the endemic Red Colobus Monkeys.  Cheetah’s Rock is a non-profit with a up close experience, but quite pricey.

If you are staying nearby, you can also visit the Zanzibar Butterfly Center, Zanzibar Land Animal (ZALA) Park, and Nungwi Natural Museum.

4) Visit a Spa

Many hotels on the island will offer spa services.  If your does not, check out some of the other great spas in Stone Town like the Mrembo Spa, Cinnamon Spa, or te Spa at the Park Hyatt.

5) Rooftop Dining

Beautiful sun sets on Zanzibar Island

Beautiful sunsets on Zanzibar Island

Many hotels in Stone Town will have a rooftop for a a great sunset view.

The most popular rooftop restaurants for dinner are the Emerson on Hurumzi (make reservations), Tausi Palace, and Maru Maru.

6) Festivals

Schedule your trip to Zanzibar around one of these great festivals:

  • Zanzibar Music Festival (Feb)
  • Zanzibar International Film Festival ZIFF (late June/early July)
  • Zanzibar Jahazi Festival for writers/artists/musicians (late Aug/early Sep)

7) Chumbe Island Coral Park

This is a separate island off the coast near Stone Town.  It is a private nature reserve with a protected coral reef and forest with rare animal breeds and nature trails, including the rare coconut crabs.  You can just do a day tour here, but we recommend at least 2 nights.

8) The Rock Restaurant

The Rock Restaurant

The Rock Restaurant

This is an amazing restaurant built on a rock off the beach in southeast Zanzibar.  They are open for lunch and dinner, serving a great selection of seafood.

You walk to the restaurant at low tide, and take a boat at high tide.  Another amazing location for sunset!

9) Spice Tour

Spice Tour Zanzibar

Spice Tour Zanzibar

This is a must-do for anyone visiting Zanzibar.  The farms are located just northeast of Stone Town.

You go on a walking tour of the farm to see all the spices that are grown, then see a coconut harvesting in action, and finally enjoy local exotic fruits.

10) Stone Town Tour

Stone Town Tour

Stone Town Tour

This tour is a great opportunity to learn about the culture and history of Stone Town.

You will learn about Arab trade influences, religious history, see the slave chambers, and it is a great way to become acquainted with the windy alleys of Stone Town

11) Full Moon Party in Kendwa

This is a fun gathering organized around the full moon every month, typically on a Saturday at the Kendwa Rocks hotel on the northeast coast of Zanzibar.  They have a BBQ grill, acrobats, and live music.

12) Kite Surfing

If you are looking for a new sport, this is mostly offered on the east and southeast coast of the island (Paje perhaps being the hub).

13) Dhow Sunset Cruise

A fun way to spend the late afternoon as the sun sets.  Some hotels will offer this, but it is fairly easy to find tours in Stone Town.

Start with our 4-Day Best of Zanzibar Trip >>

Posted in Tanzania, Zanzibar | Leave a comment

South America Treks for Every Month of the Year (April, May & June)

Posted on December 26, 2017 by Adventures Within Reach

This post is the second installment of the Adventures Within Reach “Trek a Month South America” overview highlighting our favorite treks each month to help you pick a great adventure for your travel dates. We’ll write 2 more posts, each with 3 months of the best treks for those times of year.

>> Read about top treks for January, February and March! >>

>> Read about top treks for April, May and June! >>

>> Read about top treks for July, August and September! >>

>> Read about top treks for October, November and December! >>

Peru

Luxury Salkantay Lodge to Lodge Trek

APRIL: 7-Day Luxury Lodge to Lodge Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

A physical challenge worth every ounce of effort! Like Inca royalty, experience the Salkantay Lodge to Lodge Trek to Machu Picchu in style. Each day’s impressive trek ends with a hot shower in a cozy lodge, complemented by a massage or a dip in an outdoor jacuzzi, followed by a gourmet Peruvian meal with select wines and all provided with highly personalized service by local staff.

Accompanied by expert Peruvian mountain guides and horse packing crew, this 7-day trekking adventure traverses 15 separate ecosystems along a spectacular ancient Inca Trail route in the heart of the Cordillera Vilcabamba. Pass towering snow-capped peaks dominated by Mt. Salkantay, explore villages where locals still maintain age-old traditions and re-discover the mystical beauty of Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca Empire.

This route is an even more spectacular high Andean trek than the popular Inca Trail Trek and the last day passes over a protected remnant of another Inca Trail and ancient Inca city hidden in the cloud forest near Machu Picchu. Small groups of no more than twelve trekkers ensure an intimate experience amidst stunning mountain scenery.

PLEASE NOTE: This trek is with a group of 12 people maximum. Private departures or a private guide may be available upon request.

PRICE: $3885 per person (group departure)

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, Vilcabamba Trek

MAY: 6-Day Vilcabamba Trek: The Search for the Lost City of the Incas

This rugged trek to the remote Vilcabamba ruins is a challenge! You will be able to explore the area that was Hiram Bingham’s goal in the early 1900’s. End the trek with a visit to Machu Picchu!

PRICE: Available Upon Request

Peru

Huayhuash Trek

JUNE: 6-Day Best of the Huayhuash Trek

With new access roads into what is considered the most spectacular mountain scenery of Peru, we have developed this trek into the heart of the mountain range. It offers a new opportunity for those who don’t have the time to do the longer, classic traditional route. A prerequisite however is to be well acclimatized since we gain altitude quickly!

This trek is 5 days of hiking.

There is an excellent transportation service between Lima and Huaraz, with multiple departures daily. Certain times of the year there are also flights in small planes from Lima to Huaraz. Check with us for schedules.

2018 set departures for the group rate are on Saturdays, April through October. You may combine this with the 4-day Cordillera Blanca trek for a 10-day expedition.

Minimum group size is 4 people. Groups of 2 or 3 trekkers have a surcharge of US$225 per person. Single travelers contact us for groups to join.

PRICE: $995 per person (group departure)

Want to join one of these treks? Have questions? Contact us!

Your friendly South America expert,

Gretchen

Posted in Family Travel, Inca Trail, Luxury, Machu Picchu, Peru, South America, Trekking | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Galapagos with the Alya Luxury Catamaran

Posted on December 21, 2017 by Adventures Within Reach

This catamaran was introduced in March 2017. The Alia is a luxury-class, 16-passenger catamaran with nine cabins, eight of which have private balconies. All of the cabins are the same, making this an ideal charter for groups.

Prices:

For 2018, the Alia offers cruises starting at

Highlights:

  • One of the newest boats in the Galapagos
  • Spacious sundeck with jacuzzi
  • Private balconies
  • Large suites
  • Sea kayaks, snorkel gear and wet suits included

More on the Luxury Alia Catamaran >>

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