Bespoke Magazine Fall 2011

THE LUXURY MAGAZINE FOR WORLD TRAVELERS

BESPOKE FALL 2011

KER & DOWNEY MAGAZINE

THE PERU ISSUE

THE VERY BEST OF PERU’S HOTELS, SPAS, AND EXPERIENCES

INSIDE: SACRED VALLEY CUSCO MACHU PICCHU LIMA THE AMAZON

(

One cruise not to miss

)

SPECIAL REPORT

Best Floating Hotel On the Amazon

SEEING PERU

BY PRIVATE PLANE

5

TOP SPAS AND EXPERIENCES

Sacred Valley, Lima, And More

Into the Andes

LUXURY ON THE TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

Sacred Valley

OFFERS CULTURE OF A LIFETIME

BESPOKE

Contents FALL 2011 CONTENTS

ADVENTURE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

PRIVATE JET

Trek to Machu Picchu

The Top 5 Spas of Peru

Wings Over Peru

Forget the Inca Trail; try trekking to the Inca Citadel, Machu Picchu, on a new route. It’s Peru’s backdoor trail with luxury accommodations.

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Pg.

So many of Peru’s most memorable images can be seen from above, and there’s no better way to do it than by private plane with Ker & Downey.

Pg.

55

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PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED BY: HOTEL PARACAS, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT

Pg.

True Peruvian hospitality takes center stage in the treatment rooms of these top spas, each with a unique treatment you won’t soon forget.

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W W W. K E R D OW N E Y.C O M

FALL 2011 // INSIDE THE ISSUE

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PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED BY: INKATERRA MACHU PICCHU PUEBLO HOTEL

Inside the Issue

GASTRONOMY

Something’s Sizzling in Peru See for yourself why Peru’s culinary scene is such a hot topic right now on this epicurean journey from Ker & Downey.

Pg.

39

CRUISING

Amazon Sailing

The newest luxury cruise ship to hit the Peruvian Amazon is making big waves with its sleek design and raw adventure.

Pg.

45

“Leisurely walks through Lima blend the old world and the worldly, with your mind and belly brimming of Peruvian hospitality...”

SOMETHING’S SIZZLING IN PERU / Page 39

PHILANTHROPY Love from Lima Partner with Ker & Downey and Lima Tours Foundation to spread the love while traveling to Peru. Learn more about the various ways to give back. pg. 11

T H E T R AV E L O G U E Newsworthy Ker & Downey gets recognition from Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. pg. 5 Letter from the President President David Marek shares his thoughts on all that Peru has to offer. pg. 7 Our World A comprehensive map of our destinations. pg. 9 Itinerary Ker & Downey’s Inca Explorer is a perfect starting point from which to customize your own Peruvian journey of a lifetime. pg. 14 Colca Canyon Learn more about Las Casitas Del Colca. pg. 19

THE LUXURY MAGAZINE FOR WORLD TRAVELERS

CREDITS Spring Magazine 2011 Executive Editor: Andrew Littmann Contributing Editors: Becky Bader, David Jones, Brittan Pittman Content Writers: Katy Heerssen, Andrew Littmann Design: Andrew Littmann, Brittan Pittman For future advertising consideration: Contact Andrew Littmann - 281.371.2500 alittmann@kerdowney.com Photography credits include: Piotr Redlinski, courtesy of Redux Pictures, Starwood Hotels - The Luxury Collection Hotel Paracas, Inkaterra Machu Picchu, Aqua Expeditions M/V Aqua, Thinkstock Photos, Lima Tours Foundation, Starwood Hotels - The Luxury Collection Tambo del Inka, Orient Express Hotel Monasterio, LAN Airlines, Mountain Lodges of Peru, Orient Express Las Casitas del Colca, Aranwa Sacred Valley, Orient Express Rio Sagrado, Orient Express Miraflores Park Hotel, Lima Tours, Aqua Expeditions M/V Aria, Alamy Photography, Intersection Photos.

All pricing that has been notated in this magazine has been listed based on double occupancy. Prices may vary depending on the time of year as well as other variable factors. © 2011 Ker & Downey *This magazine is a publication of Ker & Downey. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine belong to contributors and writers and may not reflect the views and opinions of Ker & Downey.

&

BESPOKE SPRING 2011

KER & DOWNEY MAGAZINE

THE PERU ISSUE

THE VERY BEST OF PERU’S HOTELS, SPAS, AND EXPERIENCES

INSIDE: SACRED VALLEY CUSCO MACHU PICCHU LIMA THE AMAZON SALAMANDORA

(

One cruise not to miss

)

way you’ve always dreamed it. Whether its a picnic atop Machu Picchu, a glass of champagne on the sun deck of an Amazon cruise, or culinary classes with an acclaimed Peruvian chef, we can arrange anything for your trip of a lifetime to Peru.

SPECIAL REPORT

Best Floating Hotel On the Amazon

SEEING PERU

BY PRIVATE PLANE

5

TOP SPAS AND EXPERIENCES

SACRED VALLEY, LIMA, AND MORE

Into the Andes

LUXURY ON THE TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

3

On the Cover: When it comes to Peru (or any other Ker & Downey destination), our philosophy is simple: enjoy the world in privacy, the

Sacred Valley

OFFERS CULUTRE OF A LIFETIME

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F O R T R AV E L A G E N T S : Reservations or questions can be handled by calling us at 800.423.4236.

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W W W. K E R D OW N E Y.C O M

FALL 2011 // NEWSWORTHY

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Newsworthy AWARDS

The World’s Best

Other Awards TRAVEL + LEISURE

Ranked in the Top Ten by Travel + Leisure in the 2010 World’s Best Awards for Luxury Tour Operator NANCY NOVOGROD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC + ADVENTURE JEAN-PAUL KYRILLOS

The prestigious Travel + Leisure Magazine has named Ker & Downey #2 in their search for the World’s Best Tour Operators and Safari Outfitters in 2011. With this third consecutive World’s Best Award, Ker & Downey continues to prove its excellence in providing truly customized, luxurious and experiential travel to destinations all over the world.

VP/PUBLISHER National Geographic Adventure Magazine’s “Best INVITE YOU TO THE Adventure Travel Companies on Earth”TRAVEL - Luxury+ LEISURE Category

2011 WORLD’S Best Adventure Tour - “Best BEST of Peru”, by Concierge.com AWARDS PARTY CONDÉ NAST

THURSDAY, JULY 14 6:00-8:30 PM MR. C BEVERLY HILLS EDITORIAL 1224 BEVERWIL DRIVE LOS ANGELES

Turkish Delight RSVP TLEVENTS@AEXP.COM Acclaimed travel writer Margie Goldsmith shared Ker & Downey’s Tour of Turkey by Private Jet in Elite Traveler Magazine’s May/ June 2011 issue. A 14-day journey escorted by private jet follows the footsteps of famous jet-setters Sarah

EGYPT: TRIP OF A LIFETIME World-renowned National Geographic Traveler magazine has included Ker & Downey in their 2011 list of 50 Tours of a Lifetime.

Added to the fray for 2011 is Ker & Downey’s Uncovering Alexander’s Egypt: A Desert and Diving Expedition itinerary.

The 14-day adventure features surprising locations and experiences, among them a sustainable and eco-conscious stay in the Western Desert and a chance to dive back in time in the harbor of modern Alexandria, where ruins and shipwrecks date back to

the age of the pharaohs.

The journey is bookended by several days in Cairo exploring the Great Pyramids and other relics from Egypt’s past and diving excursions in Sharm El-Sheikh, another of the world’s most coveted dive sites.

Magazine Subscription To subscribe to Ker & Downey’s BESPOKE Magazine, click to: www.kerdowney.com/bespoke_subscription/

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Tours of a Lifetime

Tours of a Lifetime

2011

2011

CR UISE

Tours of a Lifetime

Diving the Red Sea in Sharm-el-Sheikh

2011

S

The ruins of Ephesus, one of the many stops on Margie’s 14-day trip to Turkey.

Ferguson, Sting, Tom Hanks and Bill Gates through the sights of Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Bodrum and a private overnight cruise on the Aegean coast.

Tours of a Lifetime 2011

A KER & DOWNEY JOURNEY:

BE ST O F P ER U A BEST ADVENTURE TRIP

BY CONCIERGE.COM S E L E C T E D A S O N E O F T H E B E S T A D V E N T U R E T R I P S B Y C O N D É N A S T ’ S C O N C I E R G E . C O M , T H I S FA S C I N AT I N G J O U R N E Y A L L O W S YO U T O E X P L O R E S O M E O F T H E M O S T I N C R E D I B L E S I G H T S O N E A R T H , I N C L U D I N G A L L O F T H E N O T-T O - B E - M I S S E D P E R U V I A N H I G H L I G H TS , TO P P E D O F F BY A LUXU RY C R U I S E T H R O U G H P E R U ’ S N O RT H E R N A M A ZO N R E G I O N .

W W W. K E R D OW N E Y.C O M

FALL 2011 // LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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Letter from the President

OUR PERU Cusco, one of Peru’s most treasured cities, is a must on any of Ker & Downey’s journeys to Peru for its fusion of colonial charm and natural beauty.

Peru is a destination that should be on every American’s travel list.

It’s only a 7-hour flight from most southern cities, which should make it a playground for the states, yet Peru is still one country that remains relatively unexplored for most Americans. We would like to change that, by introducing you to the Peru of Ker & Downey.

When you consider travel to Peru, no doubt at the top of your list is a visit to the mountain sanctuary of Machu Picchu. We do this in Ker & Downey style via 5-star train; however, for the more adventuresome, there is a five-day hike on a new trail through the Andes, enjoying exclusive mountain trekking during the day with four-course dinners and warm beds in the evening. We’ll make it happen for you.

Peru’s Sacred Valley of the Incas, Cusco, Ollantaytambo, the Nasca Lines, and Machu Picchu. All done privately with the legendary Ker & Downey style of service.

Peru is one of the oldest civilizations dating back almost 5,000 years. Take your camera and carry extra flash cards to record your memories because the snowy peaks, the shimmering rivers, the sunrise over Machu Picchu, the audacity of the Nasca lines, and the sea lions on the coast are memories to capture. Why wait? Call us and let us plan your Peru adventure of a lifetime.

Our adventure, “Wings over Peru,” takes you to Machu Picchu and more. Since you will be traveling with Ker & Downey, you’ll be able to see sights that others traveling by road probably will not see. You’ll visit the northern coast and the Sacred City of Caral with its intricate network of temples, homes and 19 pyramids.

You’ll also see Huascaran, Peru’s highest snow-capped mountain, the adobe city of Chan Chan, and you’ll be guided by D. Luis Jaime Castillo, Peru’s foremost scholar on the ancient culture. But that’s not all! You’ll also visit the Royal Tombs of Sipan with Dr. Walter Alva, lead archaeologist on the tomb’s digs and you’ll fly over the Valley of Volcanoes and Colca Canyon with additional visits to

David Marek President

KER & DOWNEY

Philanthropy: For ideas on how to get involved in doing good while traveling, visit us on the web at kerdowney.com/philanthropy.

F O R T R AV E L A G E N T S : Reservations or questions can be handled by calling us at 800.423.4236.

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THE

THE PHOTO HUNT IS BACK. SUBMIT PHOTOS. WIN ADVENTURE.

photo

HUNT Show us your images from Asia, Africa, South America, the South Pacific, or the Middle East along with a location and description, and you could be published in the Spring 2012 issue of BESPOKE and win a $500 coupon off your next trip with us!

PLEASE SUBMIT ALL ENTRIES BY EMAIL TO: THEPHOTOHUNT@KERDOWNEY.COM

W W W. K E R D OW N E Y.C O M

FALL 2011 // OUR WORLD

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Our World

Bespoke Thinking

Our Global Destinations BRAZIL CHILE ECUADOR & THE GALAPAGOS PERU

E AST AFRICA KENYA RWANDA SEYCHELLES TANZANIA UGANDA

AS I A

NO RTH AFRICA & THE M ID D LE E AST EGYPT ISRAEL JORDAN OMAN QATAR TURKEY MOROCCO UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

BHUTAN INDIA NEPAL LAOS CAMBODIA THAILAND VIETNAM

S O U T H PAC I F I C AUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND

SOUTH AM E RICA ARGENTINA

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S O U THER N AF R I CA BOTSWANA MAURITIUS MOZAMBIQUE NAMIBIA SOUTH AFRICA ZAMBIA ZIMBABWE

The real heartbeat of Ker & Downey traveling lies in our dedication to creating hand-crafted journeys that will change your life. The experience you gain, the adventure you have, the people you meet - all of these are the benchmarks of a truly life-changing journey - so step into the world of Ker & Downey with boldness. With any of our excursions, mix and match a world of destinations and luxury properties for your very own, unique trip of a lifetime.

FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE PERU AREQUIPA COLCA CANYON CUSCO LIMA MACHU PICCHU

PERUVIAN AMAZON PARACAS SACRED VALLEY

FALL 2011 // OUTLOOK

PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED BY: LIMA TOURS FOUNDATION

The Outlook

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WILLOQ: The children in the small village of Willoq, one of Lima Tours and Ker & Downey’s opportunities for social responsibility, receive books in their local dialect.

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FALL 2011 // PHILANTHROPY

The Storybook Collection

Love from Lima Any guest visiting Peru with Ker & Downey has the opportunity to give back to the local communities through a partnership with Lima Tours Foundation.

Convinced that tourism can and must be a road toward the development of Peru, Ker & Downey and Lima Tours Foundation seek to improve the well-being of the country, especially for its neediest citizens, so that everyone has a chance for a positive and meaningful future.

WAYS TO GIVE On any journey to Peru, guests of Ker & Downey have several ways to make an impact on the Peruvian communities we visit.

Small gifts such as pencils, pens, notebooks, or crayons are great items that you can pack with you.

Guests also have the opportunity to participate in an “Adobe Bricks”

program that helps to create local buildings in the community. There are also opportunities for taking part in refurbishing schools, painting in the community, or teaching children how to use a computer.

For those with a more conservational focus, Ker & Downey travelers can participate in river cleaning activities, which help to keep the water supply clean from pollution.

Another way that Ker & Downey guests can support the efforts of Lima Tours Foundation is through its storybook collection. Thus far, Lima Tours Foundation has published two wonderful children’s books: “Machu Picchu, of Gods and Men” and “Caral, Adventures in the Sacred City.” In a fun and easy-to-comprehend manner with beautiful illustrations that complement the text, each book relates to a history of a culture and of the site. The books may be enjoyed by both children and adults.

The goal is to publish eleven books, each one based on a different UNESCO World Heritage Site from Peru.

Caral books

Visiting Willoq Willoq is a small community of approximately 200 families and a total of 1,500 people, located in the heart of the ancient Inca civilization, not far from Ollantaytambo.

THE NEED This impoverished village relies heavily on farming, and in the dry season, the villagers work as porters on the Inca Trail. The women help with daily activities and preserve their unique and ancient tradition of weaving fabric of the highest quality, which they sell to travelers visiting their community.

Their daily income is

very low and not enough to cover their basic needs including food, education and health.

THE ACTION As a Ker & Downey traveler, you can choose to spend time in the village of Willoq by serving the community in some capacity or spending time with

the children, playing games and learning to understand this community in a new light. Any time spent in Willoq can be lifechanging, both for the villagers and for you.

FOR MORE INFORMATION To learn more about Ker & Downey’s philanthropic opportunities in Peru with Lima Tours Foundation or to discover other ways to give back while traveling, please contact us:

email: info@kerdowney.com phone: 800.423.4236

Community of Willoq

Ker & Downey | FALL 2011

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FALL 2011 // INCA EXPLORER

Inca Explorer

Ker & Downey’s Inca Explorer melds the traces of ancient cultures with the traditions still thriving in a modern Peru over twelve days in the eclectic region.

After spending your first night in Lima, your adventure into the history of the country begins in the Sacred Valley, aptly named for its concentration of the country’s oldest and most remarkable ruins. Rio Sagrado, next to the winding Urubamba River, is the gateway to these sites where you will capture a unique snapshot of everyday life in the fertile region.

Venture into the Incan village of Chinchero, the “town of the rainbows,” where amidst the incredible views of the Andes, pre-Hispanic tradition still reigns. The bygone fingerprints are evident on the main plaza’s ancient stone wall and agricultural terraces, originally developed

by Incan ancestors, that are still planted and tilled today. Interact with the colorful Andean villagers and vendors at the Chinchero market and at Wayra Ranch meet the Peruvian Paso horse, famous for the world’s smoothest gait.

A flurry of color, handkerchiefs and nimble hooves provide entertainment over a gourmet lunch as human and horse alike perform to the rhythm of the traditional marinera courtship dance.

Peru’s most famous landmark is your next destination. Arrive by way of the luxurious Hiram Bingham Train to Machu Picchu’s hidden valley and rest for the evening at Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge on the actual site of the citadel.

Explore the city upon arrival with a guide, and on your fifth day, rise early to watch the morn-

ing sun bathe the valley in light and melt away the secretive mist, opening the monument up for your exploration once again. Both tours are intimate and quiet, avoiding the peak times for larger groups and lessening the competition for photo opportunities.

Continue to Cusco, the seat of the ancient capital where Incan roots still weave between the architectural influences of the colonial Spanish.

From the resplendent Hotel Monasterio, a monastery and seminary built in 1595, take a tour of Cusco’s architectural mix of Inca and colonial styles. Many of the buildings that now define the historic sections of the city surrounding the bustling Plaza de Armas sprung up from the foundations of Incan temples. Outside the city other ancient sites are on the agenda: the Sacsayhuaman walled complex overlooking Cusco, Kenko’s temple and amphitheater, the royal Inca baths of Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara’s red fortress.

Next, discover the “white city” of Arequipa, tucked between three impressive Andean volcanoes and distinguished by the milky volcanic rock used in its architectural achievements.

Note the distinct Santa Catalina Convent and the mestizo Baroque style of the Jesuit Church on a tour of the city, ending with a view of the countryside from the elevated Yanahuara and Chilina residential districts. You will also look into a face of the past at the Catholic University’s Museum of Andean Sanctuaries, where Mummy Juanita waits. Discovered frozen and almost perfectly preserved on nearby Mount Ampato in 1995, this young girl is thought to have lived during the Incan Empire and was likely killed as an offering to Incan gods.

The journey through Peru’s Inca heritage ends in the Colca Valley where you will spend two full days in a private luxury casita at Las Casitas del Colca. Take in as many activities in the valley as you can: spot condors in Colca Canyon at Cruz del Condor, go fly fishing on the Colca River and tour by bike or on the back of a Peruvian Paso horse. At the lodge, experiment in a Peruvian cooking class, bottle-feed baby alpacas on the farm, pursue luxurious moments in the Spa Samay, or stargaze through the glass ceiling above the fabulous sunken tub in your casita, reflecting on your journey through Peru’s Incan past.

IMAGES OF INCA EXPLORER

1. Machu Picchu, a rewarding site after the journey on Inca Explorer.

2. The suites at Hotel Monasterio are all individually styled. This one has a gorgeous view of the rooftops in Cusco.

Peruvian Property Spotlight

HOTEL MONASTERIO

Hotel Monasterio derives its name from its original purpose as a sixteenth-century monastery. Though the architecture of the hotel, indicative of the colonial period, has not been significantly altered, the hotel features entirely modern facilities, helping to make Hotel Monasterio one of the finest hotels in the world.

The artwork found along the walls of the living areas and many bedrooms is part of the monastery’s original collection, and the combination of Inca foundations, colonial Spanish architecture, and modern amenities will exceed all expectations of what luxury should be.

LOCAL EXPERIENCES AT HOTEL MONASTERIO

A.

Horseback riding

B.

Birdwatching

C.

Cultural tours

D.

City tour

E.

White water rafting

F.

Mountain biking

G.

Paragliding and hang gliding

Pricing for Inca Explorer is from $6,535 per person, based on double occupancy. Prices may vary depending on travel date. For more information, contact us at info@kerdowney or by phone, at 800.423.4236.

Ker & Downey | FALL 2011

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FOLLOW IN

DARWIN’S FOOTSTEPS

Blue-footed boobies like to show off their color.

During mating rituals, males perform a high-stepping dance; the bluer the feet, the more attractive the mate. To watch them strut their stuff is mesmerizing.

See it yourself with LAN. With over 80 years of award-winning service and more than 60 destinations in the region, South America is closer than ever.

LAN. Fly South America’s best network.

Prepare for landing.

You could unwind with a hot shower, or close the doors to your First Class Private Suite. You could mingle in the onboard Lounge*, or just sleep under the stars in a Business Class lie-flat bed. With so many choices, you may find yourself wishing for a longer flight. Discover more at emirates.com/choices

The Emirates A380. A sky full of choices. Fly Emirates. Keep discovering.

emirates.com/choices *Shower Spa and Private Suite available in First Class. Onboard Lounge available in First and Business Class.

Over 400 international awards and over 100 destinations worldwide. Discover frequent yer benets at skywards.com

Galapagos Islands ECUADOR

EASTER ISLAND

IGUAZU FALLS AIRFARE

Traveling with LAN South America is a rich destination full of mysterious history, cosmopolitan culture and natural wonder, presented on Ker & Downey’s hand-crafted journeys.

OUR PARTNERSHIP

Thanks to our relationship with LAN Airlines, we are able to couple a great value with LAN’s variety of destinations to help simplify your airline choice. LAN carries Ker & Downey guests directly to Easter Island, the Galapagos Islands and Iguazu Falls, some of the most desired remote destinations found on many intrepid Ker & Downey

journeys to South America. If South America is your goal, LAN Airlines is the premiere choice in carriers, bringing over 80 years of experience and fantastic amenities to its privileged passengers.

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

The Best Network in South America To learn more about traveling with the best network to South America and Ker & Downey, please contact our airfare department by calling us at 800.423.4236.

More information is available at kerdowney.com/book-airfare

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FALL 2011 // LAS CASITAS DEL COLCA

Down in the Colca Canyon The exclusive Orient-Express collection opened Las Casitas del Colca in 2008 in one of the most dramatic landscapes of Peru.

Coming to Las Casitas del Colca allows you to disconnect from the world to relax and enjoy the serenity of southern Peru’s Colca Canyon, the second deepest canyon in the world. The beautiful valley is a fertile region of pre-Inca terraces used to this day for farming, and dotted with villages where residents follow ancient traditions.

This luxury lodge has nineteen individual casitas and an extra spacious presidential casita granting the best view of the valley and Colca River. Guests can arrive at Las Casitas del Colca via car in 3 hours from Arequipa, Peru’s second largest city. The journey will take you through a rugged landscape reigned by volcanoes and herds of wild vicuñas from the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve.

Las Casitas del Colca preserves the local charm with vast gardens, construction and decoration with natural materials and an experience focused on nature and well-being. A range of activities are offered to allow guests to do as much or as little as they wish. Those who prefer to stay on the property

PERSONAL PERU Relaxing in the comfort of the property’s spa tubs is an absolute delight.

will always be entertained with cooking and cocktail lessons, painting lessons, visiting the farm and stable or sunbathing by the pool. Guests who would like to explore the area can ride Peruvian Paso horses or take a walking or bicycle tour to nearby towns.

A highly recommended excursion is to Cruz del Cóndor, a dramatic viewpoint above the deep canyon where tourists gather to see up close the incredible flight of the Andean condor, the world’s largest flying bird with a wingspan of up to 3.2 m.

Peruvian cuisine is recently gaining fame around the world for its delicious flavors, great quality and variety of regional recipes. The Arequipa region is particularly well-known for dishes such as stuffed pepper, shrimp stew, fava bean and Andean cheese salad, and many more. At Las Casitas del Colca, the menu changes daily and features traditional Peruvian dishes and typical recipes from Arequipa mixed with some international touches. The property’s Curiña Restaurant serves buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner a la carte using organic fruits, vegetables and herbs from the large garden of greenhouses, fruit trees and vegetable terraces. There is also a barbecue lunch option to enjoy the outdoors while having grilled chicken, beef, alpaca or vegetables.

One of the most enjoyable experiences is spending time at Spa Samay complete with an outdoor heated pool, sauna, two single treatment rooms, one double treatment room and a suite with a bath. All treatments and massages are inspired by the Colca Valley using healing elements from the Andes and herbs from the garden. One of the new treatments is a moisturizing body wrap called Sara Qata made from purple corn and honey.

Families are also welcome as children can learn about the destination and Peruvian culture through outdoor exploration and fun activities. They can help hotel staff feed the cute baby alpacas every day and get up close to farm animals like rabbits and guinea pigs. Perhaps they will pick up a new

1. The spacious interior of the suites at Las Casitas del Colca. 2. The early afternoon sun warms the Canyon, making it the perfect time to go for a swim in between local activities. 3.

The lush green of the Canyon is best seen atop some of the horseback riding trails around the property. 4.

Indulge in the Spa Samay, one of Ker & Downey’s Top 5 Spas in Peru.

“Coming to Las Casitas del Colca allows you to disconnect from the world, to relax and enjoy the serenity of southern Peru’s Colca Canyon, the second deepest canyon in the world.”

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4.

Ker & Downey | FALL 2011

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1. One of the Casitas’ living areas 2. Afternoon lunches on the patio. 3. Learn the art of Peruvian cooking techniques with private lessons 4. Entrance to the Spa Samay.

hobby by fishing in the property’s trout pond or signing up for cooking classes to make easy and tasty recipes with the family. After all that activity, at night they will curl up in bed with a sweet toy baby alpaca, which is actually a bed warmer!

When nighttime comes around and the peace and quiet of the Colca Canyon settles around you, adults can relive the day’s events while sipping a cocktail at the bar among fellow guests. A visit to Peru would not be complete without trying pisco, a grape brandy and the signature drink of Peru. It is served in many ways: pisco sour, chilcano de pisco, capitán, and pairs well with fruit juices. After dinner, return to your Casita and take a dip in the private 21

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heated plunge pool or cozy up in front of the fireplace before going to bed to have energy for the following day’s activities.

Las Casitas del Colca is available on Ker & Downey’s Inca Explorer and is also easy to combine on your own customized journey to Peru. For more information on Las Casitas del Colca or any other Orient-Express Hotels in Peru, please contact us at info@kerdowney or by phone, at 800.423.4236.

About in Peru

Other Peruvian Hotels Worth Noting Aside from the Las Casitas del Colca, there are a few other exclusive Peru lodges that Ker & Downey recommends: RIO SAGRADO

SACRED VALLEY

MIRAFLORES PARK HOTEL LIMA

WHAT

A ‘villas & spa’ retreat standing on the privileged riverfront to the timeless Urubamba River.

HIGHLIGHTS

A Peruvian spa treatment with views into the Sacred Valley.

WHAT

An unparalleled luxury hotel in the exclusive Miraflores district, with access to the best of Lima.

HIGHLIGHTS

A sunset dinner and drinks in the Observatory Restaurant.

THE PERU ISSUE

THE VERY BEST OF PERU’S HOTELS, SPAS, AND EXPERIENCES

“For those who want to capture just a tinge of that same rush of excitement felt by the explorers a century ago, the Salkantay Route to Machu Picchu is the way to go.”

TREK TO MACHU PICCHU / Page 23

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TREK TO MACHU PICCHU It’s easily South America’s most popular destination: Machu Picchu, the sprawling complex tucked away in the Cordillera Vilcabamba range of the Andes.

Historians offer theories on Machu Picchu’s original purpose - from a convent of sorts to a retreat for royalty - but its true purpose remains shrouded in mystery, much like the entire complex is hidden from below by overgrowth and incredible misty clouds. This July marked the centenary of historian and adventurer Hiram Bingham’s famed discovery of Machu Picchu. A Quecha-speaking guide led Bingham to the ruins

A view of the Machu Picchu ruins overlooking the valley

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that had long been locally-known, but was left inexplicably undiscovered by the colonial Spanish.

For those who possess a sense of adventure and want to capture just a tinge of that same rush of excitement felt by the explorers a century ago, the Salkantay Route is the way to go. Though this route is certainly well-traveled, it’s not as popular since most visitors opt for a bus or train to ferry them to the impressive ancient citadel. Some even hike along the more crowded and grueling Inca Trail from Cusco. But without a doubt, trekking on the undulating slopes along the Salkantay and retiring each evening to the Mountain Lodges of Peru is hands-down the most comfortable way to reach the ancient ruins.

MLP was born out of a genuine desire for an alternative to more primitive trekking opportunities with Machu Picchu as the goal – “true comfort and true service, amidst true adventure.” The family of four lodges is spread along the Salkantay Route, acting as cozy stepping stones on your path. Why pitch your own tent when you can instead enjoy the rugged scenery with a roof over your head and a masseuse at your disposal?

Why stuff all you could possibly need for a five-day trek into a bulky, heavy backpack when you can entrust a team of porters to guide your belongings safely to the next destination? Why take in the placid Vilcambamba scenery anywhere that doesn’t involve curling up in a fireside chair, soaking in a bubbling outdoor hot tub or drifting off under a down comforter each night? Why, indeed?

Although being physically fit helps, you don’t need to be an Olympian to accomplish this trek. Time spent hiking between lodges varies from 3-6 hours each day, with the distance traveled proving more demanding than the terrain encountered. Lodge fare, dubbed “Andean Energetic Cuisine” by the food and beverage director, is made with high-quality local ingredients and optimized to replenish one’s strength and lessen the physical effects of the trek on one’s moving parts. And so it is on the trail, too, with hot lunches that are always high-energy while granola snack mixes are constantly on offer to keep stamina high. There is no shortage of visual stimuli to keep you pressing onward - the spectacular scenery around you will surely get your pulse racing, your eyes eager for more snow-capped vistas and your lungs craving more cool mountain air. Your physical efforts each day are rewarded tenfold by the splendor of your lodge amenities. Bio-climactic architectural standards employed during the construction of the lodges make the most of the sun and wind exposure while keeping guests sheltered from the elements in utter

The Lodges The four lodges along the newest trail to Machu Picchu with Ker & Downey lack no luxury.

SALKANTAY LODGE

LUCMA LODGE

COLPA LODGE

WAYRA LODGE

comfort. This genius use of traditional techniques has resulted in miniscule energy consumption and a small footprint left on the fragile hills.

Despite its energy efficiency and remote location, all of the amenities at a modern hotel are afforded visitors: wireless Internet, luxury bedding, climatecontrolled rooms and en suite baths with a constant supply of hot water, enhanced by the soothing lather of organic shampoos and soaps. Each communal living and dining area is a welcome retreat after a day of trekking, as the wood-burning stove centerpiece casts a warm glow over the plush furnishings and stone finishes while you get to know your guides and fellow trekkers.

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Hikers along the trail often enjoy stunning scenery like this private and breathtaking.

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{THE TREK } Trekkers begin at Salkantay Lodge and Adventure Resort in the shadow of Salkantay Peak, the highest in the region at 20,600 feet.

Acclimating to the altitude is the goal here, aided by an introduction to high-mountain trekking and an unforgettable swim in the Humantay Glacial Lake.

Reach the highest point on the trek between Salkantay and your next stop, Wayra Lodge. Begin traveling through Rio Blanco Valley, circling Humantay Peak with Salkantay Peak’s south face ever in view until you reach 15,906 feet and the thousands of stone markers at Apacheta Pass. For centuries these Apacheta rock piles have been left on high mountain passes to pay tribute to Pachamama, Mother Earth, a tangible prayer for good health and a safe trek. Continue down to 12,630 feet and Wayra Lodge, a name that means “the place where the wind lives” and aptly named since the lodge perches cliff side overlooking the Rio Salkantay snaking into the distant jungle far below. This meaning is also reflected in the lodge décor which pays tribute to the mountain spirits and deities from local legends. Next, reach “the eyebrow of the jungle” at

RAYANPATA

Elevation: 11,138 feet Transition into warmer climates at “the eyebrow of the jungle”

WAYRA LODGE

Elevation: 12,630 feet Recharge and soak in the cliff side hot tub

STARTING POINT

Begin your trek from Soraypampa to Salkantay Resort

SALKANTAY LODGE

Elevation: 12,467 feet Swim in the Humantay Glacial Lake

SALKANTAY PEAK

Elevation: 20,600 feet The highest peak in the Vilcambamba region

Rayanpata, the point of transition between the rocky slopes of the high Andes and the lush jungles leading to Machu Picchu.

Shed your jacket as you feel the climate shift and trek to Colpa Lodge at 9,180 feet where the Salkantay, Chalan and Totora Rivers meet to form Rio Santa Teresa. Jungle wildlife abounds and is often spotted through the trees, while colorful butterflies are more forward, flirting with you as you enjoy the outdoors. After your downward trek, it will be hard to resist the natural hot springs located on lodge site. Before you depart, celebrate your trek with a traditional Pachamanca meal prepared in Colpa’s garden. This treat of roasted vegetables and meats is as much a hearty meal as it is a spiritual offering, prepared in reverence to Mother Earth and roasted in the ground, buried and sealed COLPA LODGE

Elevation: 9,180 feet Dine on a traditional roasted pachamanca meal

by hot stones. La Playa’s riverside town usually marks the end of the trekking for Machu Picchu’s pilgrims, but on your journey you will continue on to the tropical Lucma Lodge at 6,890 feet. Stands of coffee, banana, avocado and eucalyptus welcome you to this verdant lodge site, encouraging you to explore outdoors and watch for parrots and parakeets darting between the trees. Adjacent to the accommodations, uncover an ancient Inca trail that has been painstakingly restored, offering a glimpse into the path traversed by countless mountain residents of the past.

The final pass on the trek at 9,843 feet is Llactapata, where you will see your goal in a stunning panorama. From this vantage the whole of Machu Picchu is visible as you gaze out towards the Sun Gate of the Lost City. Your journey by foot ends not far from here as private vehicles take you onward to Aguas Calientes, where you will await your chance to enter the citadel to explore and celebrate the completion of your trek.

THE TRAIL Follow the trail to Machu Picchu.

ROCKY TERRAIN Hiking level: moderate to challenging.

JUNGLE Lush jungles full of wildlife, hot springs and vegetation.

GOURMET PICNIC Enjoy hot meals along the trail as you take in impeccable views of the Sacred Valley.

LOOKOUT POINT View a rare panorama of the entire Machu Picchu city.

LUCMA LODGE

Elevation: 6,890 feet Explore portions of a restored Inca trail on the grounds

ENTER THE CITY The rock formations indicate you have arrived in the city of Machu Picchu.

MACHU PICCHU

Elevation: 7,710 feet Your ultimate goal, the sprawling ancient Inca city

APACHETA PASS

Elevation: 15,906 feet Look out for condors on the pass!

THE TOP SPAS IN PERU Aranwa Resort & Spa

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Sacred Valley

About the Spa: Aranwa’s spacious Unno Spa is a journey into the tranquil and ultra-luxurious. Thai and Swedish techniques are enhanced by the use of Andean herbs and salts from the ancient Maras mines, creating an experience that is simultaneously unique and authentic. Entire rooms are dedicated to meditation, electrotherapy, Vichy shower and oxygen therapy, a spacious retreat overlooking the forest and river. The crown jewel of the Unno Spa is the opulent hydrotherapy area, featuring whirlpools, foot and body showers, a dry sauna and steam room.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Experience the Secret of the Andes, a meditative massage and wrap treatment administered atop a natural stone bed that has been soaked in aromatic oils and heated by open flame.

NO. TREATMENT ROOMS

GYM AVAILABLE

SPA STAFF

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Yes

10, including a doctor, nutritionist and stylist

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Indulge in a unique journey with pure relaxation, spectacular views and blends from authentic Andean remedies at some of Peru’s most popular spa destinations.

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Las Casitas Del Colca

Colca Canyon

About the Spa: Spa Samay takes its name from the Quecha word for “rest” – and rest is just what guests experience here. Complete with a sauna and spacious treatment rooms, a philosophy of natural healing and nurturing permeates the spa. Herbs used in the various treatments are grown in the adjacent garden and greenhouse, and the free form swimming pool provides additional moments of respite before or after a spa treatment.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Indigenous cultures have long used ground corn to purify the skin, a technique sampled in the Sara Qata corn blanket treatment. Purple corn, fresh honey and salvia oils cleanse the skin, sealed together snugly by an Alpaca blanket.

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NO. TREATMENT ROOMS

GYM AVAILABLE

SPA STAFF

3 private treatment rooms

No

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Rio Sagrado

Sacred Valley

About the Spa: Flanked by indigenous trees, medicinal wildflowers and artful stone structures, entering the Spa Maya Wilka is like stepping into a shaman’s upscale flat. Time-tested local remedies of eucalyptus, kiwicha and maracuya enhance each of the various massages and beauty treatments on offer. Overlooking the Urubamba River, the native gardens are a tranquil setting for outdoor massages and yoga practice while inside, guests may luxuriate in the sauna and spacious indoor/outdoor Jacuzzi.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Try an hour-long body wrap of essential oils, local herbs and coca leaves - an ingredient used for centuries in traditional medicine. The experience includes head and foot massages and is finished off by a refreshing Inca shower.

NO. TREATMENT ROOMS

GYM AVAILABLE

SPA STAFF

1 private treatment room (many treatments are outdoors)

No

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Miraflores Park Hotel

Lima

About the Spa: A lofty haven of restoration and relaxation, the Zest Spa at Miraflores Park Hotel enjoys prime views of the Pacific from the eleventh floor. Facials by Lancôme leave guests aglow, massages and reflexology soothe, and an array of “Wraptures” offer a unique pampering on the thermal dry-float bed. For those with more active interests, a completely custom workout involving the pool and gym can be tailored by the staff.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Skin receives a healthy polish with a Peruvian olive oil and brown sugar scrub. This indulgent mixture is native to Lima but has been perfected by the innovative Zest Spa, adding soothing eucalyptus to the blend.

NO. TREATMENT ROOMS

GYM AVAILABLE

SPA STAFF

3 private treatment rooms

No

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Tambo Del Inka, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa

Sacred Valley

About the Spa: The bygone days of the Inca receive a modern reboot at Tambo del Inka’s Spa at Valle Sagrado. Favorite Andean ingredients of cocoa, quinoa and mud from Mount Misti combine with traditional massage and relaxation techniques in the well-appointed space. Water is also a major component in the treatments offered, with a heated indoor/outdoor pool, whirlpools, Vichy showers and sub-aquatic beds all available in the myriad of healing and relaxing experiences.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Be treated like an Incan princess with the 24K Gold from the Gods facial. Rosehip, green tea and a variety of Peruvian nutrients and oils combine with actual gold for this anti-aging treatment.

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NO. TREATMENT ROOMS

GYM AVAILABLE

SPA STAFF

12 treatment rooms

Yes

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PERU CUISINE

THE PISCO SOUR Perhaps Peru’s most notable culinary delight.

Something’s

Sizzling in Peru

sun and the moon in a romantic display

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SOMETHING’S

Sizzling

IN PERU

In every corner of Peru, you can see it, smell it, taste it - over 500 years of culture, simmering in a true melting pot of flavor, where plates of the traditional and the nouveau all take their culinary cues from around the world and their own backyard.

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Paracas Scallops being grilled over the open flame

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P Perhaps the easiest way to immerse yourself in any given culture is by putting your mouth to work: not by attempting the local dialect, but by sampling as many of the most popular foods as you can. Fresh meats and other ingredients give you a crash course in local industry and agriculture. Types and amounts of spices often correlate with area climates. And signature cocktails? They describe the local sense of fun and relaxation with just one sip.

There’s no better place in Peru to dive head first into the epicurean culture than Lima, the gastronomical capital of South America.

A city with more Chinese restaurants than traditional Peruvian eateries, its bustling markets overflow with culinary treasures from every corner of the country and street vendors and high-end chefs alike covet the same quality ingredients and demand perfection from every dish. Lima is a foodie’s unending smorgasbord, stocked with local cuisine inspired from all corners of the earth. Here, a melting pot was forged from centuries of traders, travelers and immigrants coming and going from the Orient, Europe and Africa and the diversity of Lima’s past is evident in the foods of today. A favorite destination among locals, “chifas” serve typical Chinese food adapted and enhanced with Peruvian ingredients.

Italian favorites also get the local treatment, with chefs often substituting the aji chili pepper in place of traditional Italian herbs and spices that are scarce in Peru.

Ceviche – or “cebiche” as it is known locally – combines the best fresh fish with lime juice and onion. The acidity of the lime cooks the fish and the flavors combine to create a delicious dish usually served garnished with peppers and sweet potato. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a shot of “leche de tigre” or tiger’s milk, the spicy leftover juices from ceviche that is said to be an aphrodisiac. Stateside eateries may try to duplicate this Peruvian original, but no artful interpretation can compare to the creations you will find here, especially one that you craft with your own hands under the guidance of a native culinary artist.

CEVICHE RECIPE

The Ingredients 1 1 1/2 1/2 1 1 1 4

pound white saltwater fish cup lime juice cup lemon juice cup orange juice tablespoon salt chopped habanero pepper (or aji limon if you can find one) medium onion tablespoons chopped cilantro

Cut the fish into small pieces: You can dice it or leave it in pieces up to 1 inch square, but remember that the larger the pieces the longer it will take to marinate.

Salt the fish, then cover with the citrus juice in a non-reactive (glass or plastic) container with a lid. Add the sliced onions and the chiles.

Chill this in the fridge for at least 2 hours, possibly as much as 3 hours -- very large pieces can take longer.

If your fish is truly raw-eating quality, it is OK if the centers of the pieces are still raw-looking.

To serve, lay down some of the onions and chiles and top with the fish. Garnish with the cilantro.

In Peru, you will most often find this served with potatoes, either sweet or white.

Fish Market

Spend a morning in the Villa Maria del Triunfo Market, South America’s largest and most diverse outdoor market.

The scene is one of pure culinary chaos: unending ramshackle stalls teeming with whole fish, having arrived fresh from the Peruvian coast and all across South America, mingling with a rainbow of fruits from the highlands and jungles of Peru. You will rub elbows with some of Lima’s most talented chefs from high-end bistros and family-owned huariques as you search for your own ceviche ingredients, moving on to a local restaurant to assemble and taste your Peruvian creation. Though the original ceviche recipe used by pre-Hispanic coastal residents remains a mystery, Peruvians have invented dozens of variations on the dish, both modernized and traditional.

Back on the bustling streets, Lima’s food stands rival those in Hanoi and Seoul, serving incredible tamales, Peruvian sandwiches, shish kebab anticuchos of skewered meat and syrup-covered fried doughnuts called picarones. Try the “five flavors,” a snapshot of Peru’s culture on a plate, combining spaghetti pasta, ceviche, rice and Andean ingredients to create an eclectic dish. At the other end of the spectrum of palatable offerings, bite-sized dishes paired with sumptu-

ous cocktails are a constant at the exclusive tapas restaurants, a dining experience that is decidedly Spanish with no shortage of Peruvian flavors commingled.

The culinary evolution of Peru has come full circle and returned to its Andean roots in many ways. Thought to be “peasant food” for centuries by the colonial-minded European Peruvians, Andean ingredients of quinoa, maize and potato once shunned are now featured regularly in haute cuisine. The potato, in particular, holds a special place in Peruvian history as the starchy staple was first cultivated some 7,000 years ago in the south of the country, paving the way for thousands of different native varieties. Indigenous cuy, also known as guinea pigs, yield a meat high in protein and low in cholesterol that has long been a source of sustenance in the Andes. In larger municipalities, cuy is a common ingredient in street fare and fine dining alike.

A treat that is best enjoyed in the remote Andes is a pachamanca meal, a hearty mixture of meats, vegetables, potatoes and spices that is baked in the ground by hot stones. This ancient cooking method is designed as an offering to Mother Earth, returning the food to the earth from which it sprung in an act of reverence and appreciation.

Pachamancas are usually re-

PRESENTATION It’s not all about taste when it comes to Peruvian cooking.

Chefs take great pride in amazing presentation of their artistic creations.

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served for special occasions, taking several hours to roast and often prepared in mass quantities and enjoyed in a festive banquet setting.

TRADITIONAL DELIGHTS From left to right: Traditional ceviche dish; local chef preparing pachamanca.

The Paracas Peninsula on the northern coast of Peru is renowned for its spectacular seafood. Peru’s ancient settlers thrived in this area in spite of the desert climate, with the cold waters of the Humboldt Current creating the perfect conditions for an unending Pacific bounty of fish and shellfish. Paracas is famous for its scallops, baked on the half shell with Parmesan cheese and butter, tossed in a ceviche, or enjoyed raw with a simple sprinkling of lime juice and salt. Not far from the peninsula, Pisco in the Ica Valley is where you will find the birthplace of the grape liquor used in the famous pisco sour, Peru’s national drink. Lime juice, egg white, sugar water and pisco are blended with ice and garnished with bitters to

create a crisp, tangy cocktail that is a standard in eateries throughout Peru.

Wherever you are or whatever you’ve eaten, taking a post-dinner walk is a must.

El Paseo - the stroll - is a tradition with Spanish roots in which families and dinner guests take a long walk together, allowing time for swimming heads to slow, full stomachs to settle and spirited conversation to continue. Leisurely walks wind you through the cosmopolitan blend of the old world and the worldly in Lima, next to the lapping waves of the Pacific in Paracas and along the undulating hills of the Sacred Valley with mind and belly brimming with Peruvian hospitality, history and an eclectic mix of flavors. P

The Inside Scoop By: Marni Granston EXPERIENTIAL TRAVEL SPECIALIST / KER & DOWNEY Seeing the wonders of the ancient Inca civilization of Machu Picchu, like many travelers, was my initial draw to Peru. But Peru is a destination full of rich culture, offering up an incredibly unique culinary experience as well. One of my personal favorites was the Alpaca. Prepared in a variety of ways from an alpaca burger, carpaccio or tenderloin, it’s an absolute must when sampling the local cuisine.

For those looking to sample more of the indigenous meats of the Andes and want to embrace the “bizarre foods” sort of experience, try a local favorite, guinea pig... Can’t say I tried this one personally. Your Ker & Downey guide can recommend some wonderfully quaint restaurants to indulge in these local favorites throughout your journey. Want to learn how to make some of the traditional dishes? Ker & Downey will arrange for your own private cooking lessons where you can master the recipes of your favorite Peruvian dishes to share with your friends at home.

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TO MARKET, TO MARKET Markets in Lima are a delicious assault on the senses, and the Villa Maria del Triunfo is the king of them all. Uncover the most famous feature - the aisles upon aisles of fresh fish from the Pacific.

A STAUNCH STARCH The potato was cultivated in the Peruvian Andes as many as 7,000 years ago and since spreading to Europe and the rest of the world via the conquistadores, potatoes have grown to be the fourth-largest crop in the world. Give a nod to the Peruvian farmers of old the next time you sample spuds au gratin, mashed, baked or French fried.

PISCO A GO-GO Chile and Peru both claim to have invented this tangy drink, and untold variations adding tropical fruits can be found throughout South America. Peru, however, is the undisputed origin of the grape-based pisco liquor and also has Anthony Bourdain’s vote for the more perfect pisco sour.

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FLOATING BOUTIQUE HOTEL The newest addition to the Aqua Expeditions fleet takes luxury one step further with its enormous suites that make this more of a boutique hotel experience than a cruise

AMAZON Down the Amazon you’ll find an array of boats carrying discerning choose Ker & Downey and a privileged spot aboard the brand the pristine Pacaya Samiria reserve where the wildlife

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SAILING all kinds of passengers, but the most new M/V Aria. This ‘floating boutique hotel’ traverses puts on a display you won’t want to miss.

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A

As the popularity of the Peruvian Amazon grows, so does the luxury cruise ship fleet of Aqua Expeditions. In April of 2011, the M/V Aria was introduced as a second option to float the tranquil Amazon. The plush modern aesthetics of this updated vessel come courtesy of renowned Peruvian architect Jordi Puig, the same artist who designed the Aria’s sister ship, the M/V Aqua.

There is space aboard for 32 Amazonian adventurers – eight more than the Aqua – as well as a generous observation deck with ample room for sun loungers and a luxurious outdoor Jacuzzi.

From the decks of the Aria, Peru’s Amazon comes to life in a vivid spectacle of color and natural beauty. Guests are guided aboard a fleet of skiffs to see the treasured forests and jungle denizens up close. In the low water season, typically June through November, more of the land trails are navigable by foot, while in the high water season, the skiff does all the moving for you as much of the lush jungle is flooded with some 23 extra feet of water.

The sunrise over the Amazon you will see on your first morning aboard is merely an appetizer, and the excursions along the mighty river’s tributaries are each a satisfying side dish composing the main course of your journey.

Spend time in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, see the black waters of the Nauta Caño and experience the meeting of the rivers Ucayali and Marañon to form the mighty Amazon. Wildlife is in abundance from every angle, above and below, and naturalist guides are keen to point out the sights and sounds of

T H E AQ UAT I C L I F E

Opposite: Each of the design suites aboard the M/V Aria have spectacular picture windows that allow the room to be a part of the natural surroundings; Clockwise from top left: Fine dining aboard the Aria; Luxurious common areas are comfortable for afterexcursion conversations with other guests.

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The M/V Aria

Space is the new luxury, and the M/V Aria has plenty of it. The newest vessel from

OUTDOOR LOUNGE

You will find that you spend a lot of time on the generous top-level sunbathing, reading a good book, or simply watching the river go by.

THE INDOOR LOUNGE

Relax between Amazon adventures or enjoy a pre- or postdinner cocktail in the air-conditioned indoor bar, a soothing oasis in an exotic location. The atmosphere is casual, the music is soft, and the conversation is good. The M/V Aria lounge access is fully air conditioned.

SECOND DECK

The second deck: includes dining area, design suites

202 204 206 THE DINING ROOM

Gaze out at the great wilderness from the elegant comfort of the ship’s dining room.

Fine china and crystal and superb service are part of the experience, matching what you would expect from a fine dining restaurant in Lima. Choose to dine à deux or at a table accommodating your whole family or your new friends.

208 201

203

205

SHIP STATS:

. . . . . . . . . . .

Capacity: 32 passengers 4 interconnecting family suites Length: 147 feet / 45 meters Beam: 29.5 feet / 9 meters

THE DESIGN SUITES

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All of the M/V Aria’s oversized suites come with a comfortable en suite seating area and extra-large windows that enable you to get the “big picture” of the rivers and their banks from the comfort of your air-conditioned room.

Draft: 5 feet / 1.5 meters Life jackets: In all cabins Crew: 24 Guides: 4 Launch boats: 4, each with a capacity of 8-10 Passengers, guide and launch pilot Cruising Speed: 10 knots

ABOUT THE ARIA The M/V Aria is a luxury vessel featuring 16 suites, all with beds that are convertible to California king-size beds. All suites face outside, have large panoramic windows, and are air-conditioned with en suite sitting areas.

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Aqua Expeditions is redefining luxury cruising on the Peruvian Amazon.

THE ARIA BAR

At the end of the Aria’s gorgeous indoor lounge is a full-service bar. Premium liquors, fine wines, and a selection of beers make enjoying the view from the deck that much easier. The bar provides a perfect social setting at the end of great excursion to reminisce with other guests aboard.

EXCURSION SKIFFS

Embark on ‘Amazonian safaris’ with an Aqua guide aboard expedition skiffs. These experiences aren’t to be missed as you get up close and personal to the native wildlife like pink dolphins.

OBSERVATION DECK

The top deck: includes outdoor lounge, indoor lounge, jacuzzi, sun loungers, top-deck bar

THIRD DECK

The third deck: includes family interconnecting suites, design suites

THE INTERCONNECTING SUITES

Aria Suites 104-106 and 103-105 are perfectly suited for families, as these two suites can be interconnected to allow maximum space for larger groups traveling together.

102 104

106 108

101 103 105 107

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Relax in the spacious lounge area with a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres, located on the observation deck.

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7 4

DAYS

The Aria’s Route Itinerary

AMAZON RIVER

DAY 1

DAY 5

Depart from Iquitos

Marañon River

Amazon River

Choroyacu River

DAY 2

DAY 6

Amazon River

Tacsha River

Yarapa River NAUTA

Pacaya Samiria Reserve

San Martin De Tipishca

DAY 3

Yanallpa River

DAY 7

Ucayali River

Tahuayo

Charo Lake

DAY 4

Amazon River

DAY 8

Puerto Miguel

Nauta Caño

CHARO LAKE CHOROYACU

YARAPA

SAN MARTIN DE TIPISHCA

PUERTO MIGUEL NAUTA CAÑO

TACSHA

YANALLPA

Manatee Rescue Center

the waterlogged jungle. Giant Victoria Regias water lilies, the world’s largest aquatic plant, emerge in a burst of color from the waters. Monkeys hoot at you from the nearby trees, and birds are constantly heard chirping happily in the thick forest. Flashes of grey and pink – yes, pink! – pass inches from you as the unique freshwater dolphins escort the skiffs through the waters. Not nearly as friendly as the dolphins, but still fascinating, carnivorous piranhas can be seen in certain sections of the river. If you’re lucky, you may find one staring back at you from the end of your fishing line. You will visit the Yacapana Isles, known as “Isle of the

Iguana,” where untold numbers of these lizards make the most of sunny days on the shores. Exit the skiff to meet the villagers of the region and share in their stories of life next to the powerful river. After watching the colorful macaws take flight at sunset, the skiff will meander back to the ship, and your guide will be on the lookout for caiman and other nighttime river dwellers.

Off-boat tours are offered typically twice daily with time midday for lunch and even a relaxing siesta in your suite or on the sun deck. Executive Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino has offered his talents to the Aria’s sumptuous menu, utilizing native fish and produce to craft meals that showcase the region’s cuisine and pair perfectly with the extensive selection of wines on offer. Rise each morning to enjoy the breakfast buffet, given an exotic treatment with the array of tropical juices made from fresh-squeezed fruits. From start to finish, whether on three-, four- or seven-night cruises, the M/V Aria chauffeurs you in splendor through the unexpected wonders of the Peruvian Amazon.

Excursions DAY 1

DAY 6

Arrival in Iquitos, transfer to Dock

and Check-in

or Morning Rainforest Walk & Afternoon Caiman Expedition

DAY 2

Iguana Isles and Piranha Fishing

Dolphin, Birds, & Monkey Expedition

DAY 3

Magdalena Village or Flooded Forest

Pink Dolphins

Macaws at Sunset

DAY 4

Enjoy the sun and spectacular scenery along the Amazon from the outdoor lounge of the M/V Aria.

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AMAZON RIVER

IQUITOS

IQUITOS

Forest of Mirrors

DAY 5

Nature Excursion

Jungle Walk; Meet the People

All-day Primary Forest Excursion

DAY 7

Breakfast with Pink Dolphins

Fishing Trip

DAY 8

Iquitos City Tour and Departure

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The Aria’s spacious decks that wrap around the exterior of the boat provide guest with ample room to catch a glimpse of the Amazonian wildlife.

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Wings Over Peru Above the Peruvian landscape await the most vivid images of a country and culture that can’t be seen any other way. Experience the ultimate Peruvian journey by private plane with Ker & Downey.

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SACRED VALLEY Stunning sunset over Sacred Valley is just one of the reasons to take Ker & Downey’s Wings Over Peru by private plane.

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PERU BY PRIVATE PLANE One of Peru’s most memorable images, the Nazca Lines, are best seen by private plane from above with Ker & Downey’s Wings Over Peru.

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Peru’s pre-Hispanic endemic cultures come to life on this journey, uncovered on private tours and private flights that span the entire country. Trace the fascinating 4,000-year-old history of the indigenous people of Peru at active archeological sites, learn of their conquest and bear witness to the resurgence of many old traditions in the modern society.

Though spread over just nine days, you will see more of the country in a shorter time thanks to the private air transfers, allowing you to jump quickly between the magnificent sites while viewing them from above and up close on terra firma.

Lima’s blend of the modern world with the ancient influence of long-past civilizations is the perfect place to begin your journey. View pre-Columbian and pre-Inca artifacts in the Larco Museum, an extensive private collection comprised of artifacts that were likely misappropriated by colonial-era looters, now secured in the former viceroyal mansion. Over lunch, championship Peruvian Paso horses bred for generations by the Rizo Patron family will perform the famous marinera courtship dance and will even allow for a ride so you can experience their comfortable gallop, a trait that makes them an internationally-coveted breed.

Peru’s foremost scholar on the ancient culture, at the Pyramid of the Moon, Huaca de la Luna. This adobe pyramid is part of what remains of the ancient Moche capital and is thought to have been the main religious center of the city. Archeologists have discovered once-vivid murals depicting Moche deities as well as skeletal evidence of human sacrifice. Drive through Trujillo to Huanchaco Beach where you will see fishermen riding on totora reed boats, a method traced back to the time of the Moche and possibly the root for the sport of surfing – an activity that remains popular on the temperate coast. It is also thought that the Moche pioneered the dish ceviche, and in a breezy

Thanks to the private air transfers on this journey, it will be easy to travel to a historically-rich region of Peru that most visitors skip – the northern coast.

On your way to the seaside hub of Trujillo, fly over two of northern Peru’s treasures: the Sacred City of Caral and Huascaran National Park.

Caral is the oldest city of the Americas, settled between 2600 and 2000 BC, and comMARKET GOODS Peruvian women in traditional dress weaving outside their home in prises an intricate network Chinchero. of temples, homes and 19 pyramids. View the city from the air and continue to the snowy peaks of Huascaran, Peru’s highest mountain and the centerpiece for the wildlifebeachfront restaurant, the national ceviche champion rich conservation area. Upon landing you will head to the chef will teach you how to create this simple but coast and sprawling Chan Chan, the adobe city constructed hearty meal of fish, lime juice and spices. by the Chimor, descendants of the Moche civilization.

Amazing adobe carvings and reliefs depicting pelicans, crab, View several Moche sites from above en route to fishing nets and other coastal imagery are found throughout Chiclayo to see the Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum. the ruins. Its precarious coastal location leaves this ancient Treasures from the tomb where the mummified city under constant threat from rain and wind, causing many remains of the Lord of Sipan were discovered in 1987 of the facades and structures to erode and decay – a constant – miraculously untouched by looters or the elements reminder that the city may not be so easy to explore in the for centuries – are displayed in the museum, a buildnear future. ing modeled to look like the Lord’s original tomb.

Follow Dr. Walter Alva, the museum’s founder and Uncover the Moche civilization with Dr. Luis Jaime Castillo, lead archaeologist on the tomb’s dig, as he guides you

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City exploration illustrates the role Catholicism played in the conquest of the ancient Inca capital, and how the church’s pioneering of the Cusco School of Painting led to a surge in the arts.

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ALONG THE WAY Clockwise from top left: Cobble streets of Cusco are lined with dwellings full of life, color, and character, which give the city its charm; The Miraflores Park Hotel is privy to some of the best views Lima has to offer; The Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu is one of the many highlights of the Wings Over Peru journey; Opposite: Dr. Walter Alva, founder of the Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum, at dig site.

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on a private tour through the stunning collection of gold and jewelry, the largest ever discovered in Peru.

rare vicuña wool that is only shorn every three years, and masterful embroidery from the Collaguas culture.

Head into the Andes next and overfly the Valley of Volcanoes and Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons, en route to Arequipa. The “White City” shines brightly, thanks to the alabaster volcanic rock used to build many of the colonial-era buildings. Walk through Arequipa’s historic center to see Santa Catalina, a sixteenth-century convent where as late as the 1970s the second-born daughters of the city’s elite were sent to live out their lives. Sample the varieties of traditional Andean food at lunch in Casa del Moral, an impeccable colonial mansion. Menu offerings for the adventurous include cuy, grilled guinea pig, and chupe soup made using a sweet-tasting river shrimp. International designers crave Andean textiles and during lunch you will enjoy a fashion show of the best of the region – plush alpaca,

Continue on to Peru’s Sacred Valley of the Incas, the undulating terrain of mountains and valleys home to some of the most cherished sites in Andean culture.

Visit the lofty city of Pisac, where sacred ruins and shrines are the focus of a pilgrimage every September - while a retail pilgrimage happens three times a week at the massive market - and explore the Maras salt mines, hundreds of terraced ponds and canals that have been a source for salt since pre-Inca times.

Ancient settlers flocked to this region for the temperate weather and rich soil and flourished for centuries in the fertile hills. Crops of colorful maize, groves of exotic fruit trees and several hundred varieties of potato are plentiful in the area, all part of the delicious

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of the complex with leave you breathless. After your grand guided tour, indulge in an afternoon tea at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge and enjoy a private dinner as you transfer to Cusco, trading air travel for the scenic mountain train ride once more in the pristine comfort of the Hiram Bingham.

OLLANTAYTAMBO The beautiful setting of this ancient city between the Urubamba and the Patakancha Rivers, still inhabited today.

In Cusco’s historic center, a local chef will guide you through the farmer’s market with many of the familiar crops from the Andes available in the bustling stalls as he picks a few choice ingredients to cook for you in a “novo-Andean” lunch. Travel into the hills overlooking Cusco to the Sacsayhuaman fortress and explore Koricancha, temple of the sun, in Cusco’s old town. City exploration illustrates the role Catholicism played in the conquest of the ancient Inca capital and how the church’s pioneering of the Cusco School of Painting led to a surge in the arts. You will even see a private sculpture exhibition by the renowned Octavio Mendivil in the San Blas district.

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bounty you will enjoy in a ritual pachamanca feast. While you dine on this specially roasted meal, stories from Quecha and Inca lore will be performed by the Yuyachkani theater and folk arts group, and the art of coca leaf reading can also be performed by a local shaman.

The impressive ruins of Machu Picchu, the most visited site in South America and the world-wide symbol of the Incas, is your next goal. You will spend a day exploring the sanctuary in the shadow of the Andes, but the manner in which you arrive at the citadel is an adventure all its own. Before heading to the citadel, you might choose to visit remote Willoq, where women practice the ancient art of weaving colorful tapestries in their simple, isolated village. Another route you may take includes touring Ollantaytambo, the fifteenthcentury fortress town near the confluence of the Urubamba and Patakancha Rivers. Though ancient, Ollantaytambo remains an inhabited village today and is a brilliant example of a metropolitan grid layout with a number of terraced gardens, fountains, temples and reinforced armaments spread throughout its expanse. The city served as one of the last bastions defending against the Spanish conquistadors at the end of the Incan rule, and the halt of the society is evident.

The area known as Temple Hill features several unfinished structures which were abandoned mid-construction when the aggressors threatened the city, causing the leaders to flee for the final time.

Continue on from either of these villages to the train station for your journey up to Machu Picchu aboard the Hiram Bingham. Named after the American explorer who rediscovered the citadel in 1911, this luxury train surrounds you in luscious furnishings, premium refreshments and impeccable service during a gourmet brunch as you are transported to the heart of the sacred site.

Care for more adventure? You may even hike the Qhapaq Ñan, the ancient Royal Inca Road, and climb almost 500 feet over six miles to Machu Picchu’s Sun Gate. Whichever route you choose to reach the sanctuary, the sheer size and wonder

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On your last full day in Peru, fly over the mysterious Nasca Lines. Hundreds of drawings of monkeys, lizards, fish and other animals stretch over 50 miles in the desert, etched only a few inches deep in the red earth. This unexplained desert art must be seen from the air to appreciate the marvel of the achievement. Back on the ground, talented barmen will lead you in a pisco tasting, offering several varieties of the famous brandy used to make the country’s signature cocktail, the picso sour. For dinner, visit the sixteenth-century home Casa De Aliaga, the oldest household inhabited by the same family in all of the Americas. Meet the Count and Countess of San Juan de Luriganco, among the generations of families who have called this stunning mansion home and descendants of the home’s original owner, Captain Jeronimo de Aliaga Ramírez.

The Miraflores Park Hotel in Lima is the base for the first part of your journey. Between jaunts to the incredible coastal heritage sites, spend time in the hospitality suite, which offers refreshments and snacks in between excursions. While in the Sacred Valley, enjoy the services of the Sol y Luna Lodge and its luxurious Yacu Wasi Spa. The sprawling grounds of the hotel are home to some 30 bird species and the gracious Andean décor is a reminder that you are indeed in the remote region of the ancient Incas. In Cusco, the historic Hotel Monasterio is your destination. As the name suggests, this resplendent sixteenth-century abode was once a monastery, and while it retains its original colonial architecture, the interiors are plush and modern. Oxygen-enrichment systems to assist with acclimatization and an indulgent menu of soothing baths drawn for you by a bath butler are just a few of the special touches experienced at this grand hotel - a far cry from the spartan feeling of the original cloister.

Luxurious private air transfers punctuate this cultural and spiritual journey, ferrying you through the timeline of Peru’s many ancient denizens. The scope of the history, mystery and pride of these blended cultures and ancient sites is so grand in scale that only by air will you be able to view their impact and significance in the Peru of today.

SOL & LUNA luxury at service of good taste

S A C R E D VA L L E Y O F T H E I N C A S CUSCO - PERÚ

PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED BY: SONEVA FUSHI BY SIX SENSES