This trip leans more toward moderate walking rather than leisurely due to the terrain which is quite rocky.
The weather the week I was there was clear, sunny, and warm. The countryside was filled with beautiful spring flowers which offset some of my disappointment in the general scenery and the walks through pasture lands where it was sometimes difficult to navigate holes hidden by grass, limestone outcroppings, and cattle paddies.
The Cortijo Rosario was lovely and the staff very welcoming and accommodating. The dinners were very good and the staff very obliging to dietary requests without sacrificing taste or portions of substituted dishes. The only hiccup as far as our stay was being without hot water one evening. I would not mention it as we made do, and no one seemed upset over it, including myself, but I have read in other reviews that the same thing has happened.
Algámitas is a very rural village with very few businesses (take what you will need), but the couple of times we made pre-hike morning stops for coffee at two of the cafes there were nice.
Walking Holidays in Peru
Our Peru Walking Holidays
Top 5 Places to Visit on Peru Trekking Holidays
Machu Picchu: Placing Peru firmly on the map, Machu Picchu is an ancient archaeological site that can’t be ignored by anyone wanting to explore the country. The ancient citadel was built by the Incas around 500 years ago and is set among the most incredible Andean backdrop of mountains and cloud forests. You can take various routes up to Machu Picchu, but the Inca Trail is arguably the most stunning. Arriving at the Sun Gate on the slopes of Machu Picchu, you’ll enjoy staggering views across the Lost City and the Andes.
Cuzco: Once the capital of the Incan Empire, Cusco is a spellbinding city in the Peruvian Andes and is most famous for its Spanish colonial architecture and archaeological remains. At its centre ornate cathedrals, ancient ruins and agricultural terraces surround the Plaza de Armas in the old city. This is a fascinating place for history lovers wanting to learn more about Peru’s Incan heritage and you could easily spend a day here admiring the architecture. Cusco is also the starting point for the Inca Trail and Salcantay routes.
Amazon Rainforest: The lush canopy of the sprawling Amazon Rainforest is home to some of Peru’s most wonderful wildlife and is a must for nature lovers on walking holidays in Peru. Meandering rivers, lakes and forest trails steer you through the natural habitats of animals such as monkeys, reptiles, giant otters and a whole host of birdlife. As well as exploring on foot, you can also paddle along the waterways in a canoe. This is a unique experience that will jostle your senses as you listen to the sounds of the wild on an extraordinary adventure.
Lima: The city of Lima is the vibrant capital of Peru and is a heady concoction of culture and history, providing a stark contrast against the natural landscapes. There’s no doubt Lima will charm you with its colonial-influenced architecture, coastal backdrop and tropical beats. Dubbed ‘the gastronomic capital of South America’, the city is also home to some of the most sensational food in the world with Peruvian delicacies such as Ceviche, Lomo Saltado, Picarones and Aji de Gallini. Food lovers will be in their element with the wealth of tasty treats on offer.
Lake Titicaca: Lying nearly 4,000 metres up in the Andes on the border of Bolivia and Peru, Lake Titicaca is the largest and highest navigable freshwater lake in South America. But this isn’t the only reason it’s caused a stir with both locals and visitors to Peru – it’s believed by the Incans to be the birthplace of the sun, and that’s one impressive claim to fame! The highland lake is overlooked by imposing Andean peaks and strewn across the plateau you’ll find ancient ruins that tell of its past. The locals make a living from selling handmade crafts and even to this day they harvest their crops by hand. If you enjoy delving into the history of the destinations you visit, this is a great place to find out more about the real Peru.
Norma Hargraves Walking in Andalucia
Pete Grist Sierra de Aitana TrekI wanted a challenging week in good company and that’s what I got.
Michael Wortley Walking in AndaluciaExcellent trip with a variety of terrain and something different to offer every day. As described, it’s a grade2 level, with leisurely/moderate walking.
The accommodation is homely and comfortable, the food great quality and variety, and the staff couldn’t be more helpful and friendly. There’s also a very reasonable honesty bar!
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