Our unique experience through Peru & Bolivia
“ And then, at last, the journey to Peru and Bolivia is really about to begin ”
Arequipa
All the drivers and guides during the trip were truly very professional. I also thought it was excellent that we were kept informed via WhatsApp about pick-up times and useful information. The Hotel Cirqa in Arequipa is truly excellent and ideally situated in the city centre. The former monastery has been tastefully and luxuriously refurbished. In addition to breakfast, one meal is included: either lunch or dinner. We would definitely come back here!
“ The freedom of a rental car is also a real bonus, and the roads leading there are of good quality. ”
The journey to Colca Canyon
We really enjoyed the drive to Colca Canyon and the scenery is spectacular. The freedom of a rental car is also a real bonus and the road leading there is in good condition. You just have to get past the chaos of the city first, and that’s all! We found the Colca Lodge a very pleasant place to stay. You can tell the hotel is showing its age a bit, but it’s a lovely place to stay. The gardens are beautifully maintained. The restaurant by the springs is also highly recommended. They serve a really delicious BBQ there. We thought this was ideal for lunch. We set off at dawn (6.00 am) to see the condors flying at Cruz del Condor. We returned via the small Andean villages, and afterwards it was the perfect time for a late lunch. We ate better here than in the main restaurant.
On the way to La Paz, Bolivia
In hindsight, it would have been a real bonus to stop off and spend the night on the Bolivian side of the lake, in Copacabana, and perhaps pop over to Isla del Sol. This was a mistake on my part. Nevertheless, we had a lovely suite in La Paz with a balcony. A good, safe location with plenty of restaurants within walking distance in the neighbourhood.
The Uyuni Salt Flats
Without a doubt the highlight of the trip. We also had the best guide and driver here! Both the drives across the high plateau and the visit to the Salar should be on everyone’s bucket list. It’s so beautiful here!
“ Sucré has a pleasant climate and is rich in culture. ”
Sucre
The Parador where we stayed was, once again, very stylish and chic. Highly recommended! There isn’t much privacy, though, as many rooms overlook a patio where you can see into your neighbours’ rooms. It’s also a bit of a maze, but the location is perfect: just one street away from the Plaza de Armas and, once again, a suite.
Sucré has a pleasant climate and is brimming with culture. We booked a cooking trip which we can highly recommend. Together with your guide, you head to a local market on the outskirts of the city centre where local farmers sell their produce. You’ll be given a shopping list of what you need and get to do the shopping yourself (with plenty of help for non-Spanish speakers, of course). Once everything’s been bought, you can start chopping vegetables and preparing the chicken. The chicken is baked in clay, which you first have to soften yourself with water. The chicken goes into the clay, and the clay then goes into the oven. Whilst you wait, you learn how to make some local cocktails. A sopa de mani is served as a starter, followed by the chicken you’ve prepared yourself.
Amboro
A small but very lovely park with stunning natural surroundings. In some online reviews, guests complain about a lack of food and no internet. This is absolutely not the case. There is plenty of food and a selection of beers and a few types of wine. There is Wi-Fi in the restaurant and in the rooms. The router is on the terrace, so reception in the rooms can be a bit patchy at times. There’s even a 4G signal, so no need to panic for those who can’t switch off. Every day, you can head out into nature with a guide once or twice. It’s very small-scale, but that’s what makes it feel so much more ‘authentic’.
“ The boutique hotel Villa Barranco was very pleasant and we received excellent personalised service. There are also plenty of restaurants within walking distance. ”
Lima
Dinner at ‘Central’ in Lima was sublime. There’s loads of street art in Barranco – hire a local guide and explore the streets and alleyways. Listen to the stories that bring this neighbourhood to life.
Request a travel proposal
Do you have any questions about a unique active holiday through Latin America, would you like a bespoke itinerary for a trip to Peru or Bolivia, or would you like to arrange an appointment at our office? Please feel free to get in touch with us. Send an email to info@sapapanatravel.nl or call us on +31 73 610 62 04. We’d be happy to help.