Most Inspirational Moment
Wildlife at the Ballestas Islands, including dolphins and whale, seeing the penguins, although they were rather high up. Seeing flamingos in the wild and also flying for the first time. Seeing the condors in the Colca Valley. Machu Picchu no. 1 highlight. Alternative Sacred Valley trip including the salt mines at Maras. Cusco and Lake Titicaca. The scenery, mountains, valleys. Architecture in Cusco.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Renzo is a brilliant tour leader, one of the best. He took our wellbeing very seriously with altitude and checking on us daily whilst at high altitude very seriously: pulse oximeter readings and assessments re symptoms. He was helpful and listened to what we wanted to see and do, adding in a few extra activities not mentioned in the itinerary . He arranged an alternative tour of the Sacred Valley that was not listed on tour details. His knowledge was immense and he had a good sense of humour.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Book extra day(s) either side of the tour in Lima to see something of the city otherwise you won't get to see it. The hotel is well out of the centre, in the Miraflores district. Before I went away I pre-booked Magic Circuit Fountain Show for my first evening pre-tour, excellent start. I found US dollars were not shown or accepted in shops I went in, credit cards were accepted in restaurants and larger shops. Walking poles ARE allowed in Machu Picchu (but with rubber tip and not spikes), information on internet etc says they are not allowed. Long sticks of wood available at M.Picchu for those who needed them. All hotels in Aguas Caliente start breakfast at 5 am so 7 am entry for second visit to M.Picchu is best if you want to get there early and have breakfast before queuing for the bus. The gift for the homestays on Lake Titicaca was rice or bread bought by the tour leader out of the tipping kitty, which was allowed for in total amount), save you buying something back home. Useful item re donations to bring are old glasses. Free day in Cusco with optional day/half day trips - ask about the alternative Sacred Valley trip if it is not offered to you - Maras Salt Mines (spectacular), Moray and Chinchero (including visit to textile centre), instead of the one that went to Ollayantambo and Pisac. It's worthwhile doing a bit of research pre-holiday on these tours so you can make an informed decision at the time and know what you want to do. When in Arequipa, pick-up time for flying back to Lima is 3.30 pm so you get a good 4 hours free time in Arequipa after the guided tour of the convent, enough to see other sights, have lunch and do a bit of last minute shopping.