News from Senderos
Welcome to our newsletter with latest from our friends across South America.
In our recent travels we once again attended Travel Mart Latin America September this year in Puerto Varas, Chile. Beforehand Simon visited Casa Higueras in Valparaiso, and took a small fam group to experience an Aparte Campero at Estancia Huechahue (photo right) before crossing the Andes once again to Quincho Country Home. To see images from the trip click here
In November we were busy with visits and with WTM in London and PURE in Marrakesh.
Gareth accompanied a German speaking fam trip in December to Peru (photo right) with LAN, Casa Andina and Rainforest Expedition, and also walked the stunning Salcantay inca trail with our new partner Mountain Lodges of Peru.
Also in December Simon took an exceptional voyage in Chilean Patagonia aboard wooden 3 cabin M/Y Noctiluca (photo right).
Looking forward, Senderos will be at ITB once again in Berlin in March as will the Antarctic Dream, Casa Andina, Puyuhuapi Lodge and Spa, Rainforest Expeditions, Vida Sol e Mar, Casa Higueras and Mountain Lodges of Peru. Contact gareth@senderos.co.uk if you would like an appointment.
We wish you all a very happy, healthy and prosperous 2010!
Simon and Gareth
Senderos Partners are:
Antarctic Dream www.antarctic.cl
Argentina - Estancia Huechahue www.huechahue.com
Argentina - Hosteria Los Notros www.losnotros.com
Argentina - Hotel Los Cerros www.loscerrosdelchalten.com
Brazil - Pousada Picinguaba, Costa Verde www.picinguaba.com
Brazil - Pousada Vida Sol e Mar, Praia do Rosa www.vidasolemar.com.br
Brazilian Beach House Company www.brazilianbeachhouse.com
Chile - Puyuhuapi Lodge & Spa, Aysén www.patagonia-connection.com
Chile - Quincho Country Home, Lake District www.quinchocountryhome.cl
Chile - Awasi, Atacama Desert www.awasi.cl
Chile - Casa Higueras, Valparaiso www.casahigueras.cl
Chile - M/Y Noctiluca, Islas Guaitecas
Colombia - Hotel La Passion, Cartagena www.lapassionhotel.com
Ecuador and Galapagos - Ecoventura www.ecoventura.com
Ecuador - Huaorani Ecolodge www.huaorani.com
Peru - Rainforest Expeditions, Tambopata www.perunature.com
Peru - Casa Andina Private Collection Suasi Island, Lake Titicaca
Peru - Mountain Lodges of Peru www.mountainlodgesofperu.com
Antarctic Dream www.antarctic.cl
For season 2010/11 we’re pleased to announce a departure (date tbc) with camping and trekking on the Antarctic Peninsula!
This optional add-on activity will include 2 nights camping on ice and trekking to enjoy beautiful landscapes, experiencing what Shackleton lived. Additional fee tbc.
Special offer! We offer 10% discount over the rack rate for any booking for the 2010/11 season with non-refundable deposit paid before 31 March 2010
Onboard our Jan 17th 2010 departure we welcome Dr. Steve Running, co-winner of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize and one of the leading authors of the fourth assessment report issued by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Dr Running travels extensively to speak with groups across the USA about climate change as one of the nation’s foremost experts. He will be offering lectures and presentations for Antarctic Dream passengers about global warming and other topics related to climate change. This is a vital issue for many industries worldwide as they pursue goals of de-carbonized energy, improved efficiency and conservation, and we are very excited about his presence onboard our Ship.
Do remember our new website www.antarctic.cl packed full of information and resources. We hope you find it useful, and do let us know your comments. To access the tour operator area of the site User: antarctic2009 / Password: dream2009.
Argentina - Estancia Huechahue www.huechahue.com
During a recent stay at Estancia Huechahue I had many fantastic experiences. The highlight was taking part in the Aparte Campero, a traditional gaucho cattle competition, in which myself, Simon and Marie-Louisa were entered. Donning the traditional gaucho beret and poncho we did ourselves proud, managing to push a few cows into the pen in between tucking into the huge parilla!! Galloping through the fields the following day on Bigote (Moustache) was exhilarating! A truly memorable stay with big thanks to the Huechahue's wonderful host Jane Williams. OL, Steppes Travel Sept 09
We have formed a partnership with Patagonia Style – one of the most experienced fishing outfitters in the area. They are now organizing all the fishing and running the catering and accommodation side of Huechahue. Huechahue is strategically located for fishing. Apart from the 8 km of river frontage on the upper Collon Cura River it offers private and easy access to the floating sections of the lower Alumine river, some of the most prolific and picture-perfect stretches of the Collon Cura, the exciting stretches of the upper Chimehuin and the productive lower Malleo. In short you can fish four rivers from one location.
The rest has not changed. The estancia is still run from the main house and guests continue to easily become part of Estancia life. Riding and other activities continue as before with Jane hosting.
We have 2 new week programs in the spring.
Aparte Campero week (19 to 26 Sep 10) A week of fast scenic riding combined with opportunities to work with cattle alongside gauchos, culminating in the traditional cattle cutting competition. Guests will have a chance to test their gaucho horsemanship separating cattle against the clock. With teams competing from all over the Province of Neuquén dressed in their finest and the chance to enjoy a huge traditional Asado (bbq). The Aparte Campero (photos right) makes for a fantastic climax amid the spectacular colour, sense of tradition and camaraderie unique to Argentina. Price US$ 2,625 gross including transfer from Bariloche (meeting flights arriving at 14.00) on 19/09/10 and to Bariloche (for flights departing 14.00) on 26/09/10.
½ Term for the horse mad! (23 to 29 Oct 10) We’re formalizing something we have always run. A week of concentrated riding for all the family – working cattle, visiting Indian caves, rounding up horses, helping with the new born foals, watching the condors – as much exciting riding as you could wish for. Price US$ 2,250 gross including transfer from Bariloche (meeting flights arriving at 18.00) on 13/10/10 and to Bariloche (for flights departing 14.00) on 29/10/10.
Dates and prices for our Across the Andes, Cross the Continent and Estancia to Estancia rides are now available.
For a truly authentic experience Huechahue is a must. We were fortunate to be able to enjoy days of fantastic scenic riding across the Patagonian steppe, combined with the opportunity to work with cattle alongside the gauchos, culminating in the 'Aparte Campero'. A unique glimpse into the traditional Argentine way of life. ML Cox and Kings Sept 09
Argentina - Hosteria Los Notros www.losnotros.com
Stayed for 3 nights as part of our honeymoon - WOW! The view is just unbelievable and the service was very attentive. The tours go from just outside the hotel which is excellent and you have a really good choice of things to do - lots of activities for the adventurous or in my case sitting outside on the deck in the sunshine with a glass of wine, a book and the view, wrapped in a lovely soft blanket! Come for at least 2-3 nights to get the most of the experience. Oct 09
Please see our new website (www.losnotros.com) for a 3 minute video on the hosteria and nearby scenery and activities. Or see it on youtube
Argentina - Hotel Los Cerros www.loscerrosdelchalten.com
Southern Patagonia Programme - Hosteria Los Notros and Hotel Los Cerros have teamed up with Los Cauquenes in Ushuaia to show the best of Patagonia.
Combine at least 2 of these 3 great hotels and guests are rewarded with special benefits. Book 2 nights full board at Los Notros and get a room upgrade subject to availability; 2 nights bed and breakfast at Los Cerros and receive a welcome dinner and upgrade subject to availability; at Los Cauquenes guests receive a complimentary 30 min massage, a plate of smoked meats and cheeses at dinner and a bottle of wine.
Special offer available until the end of April 2010.
Please check out our new website and video on the hotel and this amazing region.
Brazil - Pousada Picinguaba, Costa Verde www.picinguaba.com
We had such a wonderful time here, pure bliss and plenty of relaxation in your georgous hotel. Heaven on earth! We were looked after so well by all your staff. Thank you so much. UK, Nov 2009
2010 is a very exciting year for us with lots of new plans afoot, including the beginning of the construction of our second hotel at a coffee fazenda in the serra (see picture right)
We’re delighted that in the last year we beat our previous record of guest satisfaction scoring a 4.8 on out 5 – this on average for all the pousada’s services including rooms, food, transfers, service and excursions. We are going to let them tell the story...
Many thanks for the wonderful week at Pousada Picinguaba. The staff was great, the fine food delicious (and healthy), we’ve been lucky with the weather. We loved the garden and its surroundings, the forest, and hope that “modernism” will never reach this extraordinary place! Dec 09
Thank you every member of the team for making our few days with you so special. This is one of the most beautiful places we have visited and we do hope to return one day. New Year will definitely go down in the memory book. It was such fun on the beach. Jan 10
Thank you for the amazing days, the views, the beaches, the village, the food, but most of all the people have made it a very memorable stay. I can’t imagine we’ll ever have a wetter New Year celebration, nor a more memorable and fun one! Thank you for your warm and generous hospitality. Jan 10
Brazil - Pousada Vida Sol e Mar, Praia do Rosa www.vidasolemar.com.br
What a place, a wonderful beach, a wonderful resort! surpassed only by fantastic service from simply wonderful people. I could not recommend it more highly. Jan 2010
Here at Rosa we are in the middle of high season - here is our latest news!
We’ve equipped our boat with an offshore Solas lifeboat with capacity for 20 people and now resume sailing to Coral Island.
The new whale watching boat is being built and will be ready for the next whale watching season, and we've bought a new van for airport transfers and excursions
From Christmas until the 1st March 10 our restaurant Igenio do Mar runs special programmes; on Tuesdays the samba dinner with sambistas dancing and teaching guests how to dance, and on Fridays our shrimp festival.
The spa is offering several new techniques and massages. One is with two trained therapists simultaneously – imagine the best massage possible with 2 hands, now double it - deeper and twice as effective! More details of all our therapies on request.
During the summer the IBF (Right Whale Institute) is running a special trekking programme with environmental education explaining the flora and fauna of Rosa and Garopaba, and Laguna’s dolphins.
Reveillon (New Year’s Eve) was a great party at the pousada, with family and guests all celebrating together around the pool (see pic right).
7 days in Paradise, obrigado to the whole team of Vida Sol e Mar! Chritmas 2009
Brazilian Beach House Company www.brazilianbeachhouse.com
THE FULL BRAZILIAN
Having analysed our clients feedback in depth over the last year we have found that all of our clients rely heavily on our local staff - both those who care for our guests in the properties and our local Concierges
who work tirelessly to make sure everything runs smoothly - and we have worked hard to develop and refine these services and with great results. In Trancoso for example we are now able to offer a selection of speedboats for clients to zip along the coast to Espelho for lunch; a very patient surf instructor who can work wonders for beginners (excellent for children) and intermediates who gives classes on a beautiful white-sand beach away from prying eyes; a great English speaking yoga teacher; a tennis professional with a private court for our guests' use...as well as a complete in house service of cooks, maids, nannies and barman that offer a level of service that rivals the best small hotels in the country.
Virtually all of the properties in our portfolio will now be available for 4 night packages that will include breakfast, daily maid service, a cook and English speaking concierge and one fabulous day with a local guide. This varies depending on the location, but in Paraty for example we include a day exploring the islands and beaches in the bay by speedboat, and newly negotiated rates mean higher levels of commission to those willing to actively promote our properties to their clients. Please contact Steven Chew directly at steven@brazilianbeachhouse.com for rates and to create your own portfolio of properties to offer your clients out of the 40 or so houses and city apartments we now offer.
HONEYMOONS
We have designed three unmatched honeymoon options: The First is a very private beach front house in Trancoso which has just one enormous master-suite in the main house of over 100m2 with views over the most perfect beach; another is a fabulous Ipanema pad which combines stylish living space (featured recently of the front Cover of French Architectural Digest) and a wide balcony for sunbathing and private dinners; the third is a tiny, secluded former fisherman's cottage perched on the edge of a small island retreat near Paraty. All of them are unique and come fully staffed, including a lavish pre-stocking of the fridge with champagne, drinks and delicious snacks and fruit, private dinners and huge Brazilian breakfasts served in bed...
Paradise found! Love the place and great house - the ultimate beach house. David F, Casa Azul, Trancoso, December 2009
Chile - Puyuhuapi Lodge & Spa, Aysén www.patagonia-connection.com
This is one hotel where everything from the moment they pick you up to the point they drop you off at the airport is organised and works like clockwork. The hotel and spa are wonderful. The spa, food service and the trip on the Catamaran to the San Rafael glacier was the best of our trip. Especially impressive was the food and service on the catamaran. The rooms and the views are very nice and staff very helpful. Worth the cost! Jan 10
Early booking offers!
15% for bookings more than 9 months ahead of departure
10% for bookings made more than 6 month ahead
Both options require 30% non refundable deposit when making the reservation and the balance 60 days before arrival.
5% for all bookings more than 3 month ahead of travel – payment in full, normal cancellation conditions.
We’re very proud that Puyuhuapi Lodge was recently recognised as one of the best spa’s in the world by Spanish website Viajes Pasion
A beautiful tranquil remote lodge with fantastic views across the bay and wonderful thermal springs. Rooms are very spacious and comfortable with balconies overlooking the fjord. Aysen is a wonderful region where Patagonia meets the Lake District you have it all dolphins, penguins and hummingbirds – a real treat! EB Dec 09
To date, the most incredible overall experience we have encountered. Puyuhupi not only was an unforgettable natural experience, but the first rate staff and facilities combined with the setting sets your lodge into a league of its own. As a former executive chef, I was amazed with the quality and presentations of your food. Please share our regards to your world class staff! RB Oct 09
Chile - Quincho Country Home, Lake District www.quinchocountryhome.cl
A truly wonderful place to spend three days of our honeymoon. Fabulously spoiling in every way especially by the staff. The views are stunning, scenery staggering and some great activity options. Most enjoyed our great horse riding and livid my husband caught four trout but thrilled with my giant. Many thanks! Alice & Will
See the photo (right) for our new team albeit with mostly familiar faces!
We have changed mattresses, and new white bed-linen is made from 415 Peruvian pima cotton
Remember our Special offer! Stay 4 nights pay 3, Stay 5 pay 4. Valid during the whole of high season.
Low season starts on the 1st April, and this is also one of the most beautiful months to travel through Chile.
Also in the news the River Petrohue was finally protected by a presidential decreed against any kind of dam, and last week we saw wild Puma during on of our excursions.
Punihuil (Chiloe) is a stunning spot our guests visit with a big variety of sea birds beside Humboldt and Magellan penguins (see photo right), sea otter and so much more.
Chile was fab! I really enjoyed it and you were a big part in that. Thank you so much for managing to fit me in to Quincho and the delights of the honeymoon suite! Your hospitality was super! DH, Sep 09
Chile - Awasi, Atacama Desert www.awasi.cl
Awasi, a small luxury hotel born out of the land and treasured by the owners and those who work there with homey hospitality, Hotel is beautiful, food delicious, staff willing to do everything to make you comfortable. We went on magnificent private hikes with a driver and guide to places you can only imagine.... beautiful, unmanicured, unpopulated desert. Visually satisfying and invigorating hiking experiences matched to your skill level and interests with a private guide to savour, and enjoy. This is an experience that makes travelling the pleasure that it should and can be. If you get to go here enjoy! Sept 09
Our Executive Chef Anita Mingo is available for guests before their visit! We’ve developed special menus for vegetarians, vegans, celiacs, and diabetics and will cater to any special requests. Guests that wish to can communicate directly with Anita so they email or speak by phone making sure we’ll have everything perfect for them on arrival.
We have designed a new travel blog for children to get the most out of their visit and to learn about our region’s flora, fauna, history, astronomy and geology.
4 Memorable Travel Experiences - Examples of our unique tailor made service, actual requests from past guests. This shows what really sets us apart, tailoring truly individual experiences!
Since Oct 09 AWASI is proud to join Virtuoso, a by-invitation-only organization comprised of elite hotels, lodges and resorts located in the premier tourist destinations around the world.
During WTM in London, LATA (www.lata.org) votes Awasi as Best Boutique Hotel in Latin America 2009 for a second year in a row
Awasi is the 1st hotel in Chile to be Carbon Neutral. Agreement signed with British company EcoSecurities as of Sep 09 offsetting 100% of our greenhouse gas emissions.
Its not an hotel - its an experience, which one just wants to keep reliving. My wife was in trepidation prior to leaving the UK…for her to say that Awasi and the desert are now in her top 5 places in the world says it all. The food was exquisite, the service impeccable. All in inclusive meant just that. The climax was indeed a climax in height too, on the last day a visit to the salt lagoons near the Argentine border. Beautiful, beautiful colours and masses of flamingoes of all three main species. A truly fitting end before returning for lunch and the flight back to Santiago. Can't wait to return to the Atacama and Awasi. Dec 09
Chile - Casa Higueras, Valparaiso www.casahigueras.cl
Immaculate, modern hotel in the hills of Valparaiso with great views of the harbor. Rooms were elegant and the staff was attentive. The restaurant was amazing. We had the octopus stuffed tortellini and it was extremely well prepared—very memorable. The restaurant’s terrace is a wonderful place to sit and look at the city lights/water… felt like an oasis. Oct 09
Casa Higueras recently opened the roof terrace, and now invite our guests to enjoy the sunset and an evening drink with a 360° panoramic view of Valparaiso. The roof terrace is open 730 to 1030 pm every evening.
Valparaiso will hold a Cultural Carnival 22 to 24 January. This year Mexico, Colombia, Argentina and Chile are invited. Click here for more information (Spanish only)
We stayed here for 3 nights during a recent 12 day trip through Chile. The view from our room was spectacular and the views from the terrace restaurant were equally spectacular. Our room was very large and comfortable. Jan 2010
Chile - M/Y Noctiluca, Islas Guaitecas
Simon was hugely looking forward to this very special 8 day voyage and wasn’t disappointed! Anglo-Chilean family the Westcott’s have been sailing this pristine wilderness since the 1970’s and Robin and Martin’s hospitality is second to none.
A few of the many highlights:-
Mooring for the night in deserted coves and inlets with the incredibly bright stars reflecting in the water. No light pollution!
Laguna San Rafael – as if being alone in this place wasn’t stunning enough she produced a Leopard seal on ice! The next morning we woke to a picture perfect day, surrounded by icebergs which we weaved our way through
Hacienda Quitralco, the family’s 15,000 acre hacienda – porpoises on arrival and later watching a sea lion fish and play by the boat as the sun set; fishing for trout and salmon with Miguel; riding and then swimming in crystal clear rivers; incredible hospitality from Don Manuel and his wife with mouth-watering spit roast lamb washed down with good Chilean red
Wildlife abounds – penguins, albatross, sea lions, dolphins and porpoises. The biggest salmon I have ever seen (at Quitralco).
Walking up sea shell roads to the mirador above Puerto Aguirre, incredible views of volcanoes (see pic right)
Stopping to see our old friends at Puyuhuapi Lodge and Spa, terra firma & hot springs for a night.
On our penultimate day, 40 to 50 bottlenose dolphins put on an unforgettable show, so exciting.
For more images from the trip see Simon in the Guaitecas.
Noctiluca has 2 fixed departures per month for the 2010/11 season (min 2 guests, + charter availability), and some space still for this Austral summer. For more information, conditions & information please contact simon@senderos.co.uk
Dear Martin & Robin, I just wanted to thank you for an amazing trip onboard Noctiluca – she is a wonderful boat and you have a great product. The hacienda is a great addition and a fabulous trip all in all – thank you for inviting me to experience her and your farm. I was thoroughly spoilt and what a wonderful place the Guaitecas and Aysen is. Of course thanks also for the extra special treat on the final night – 40+ dolphins – a fantastic show! EB, Steppes Travel Dec 09
Colombia - Hotel La Passion, Cartagena www.lapassionhotel.com
Our stay at La Passion was amazing. The building is incredible and each of the rooms has a different layout with special features from it's colonial past. The rooftop pool/breakfast is a great area to relax in the Caribbean sunshine. This is a must stay hotel in the heart of Cartagena de Indias. PW, Western & Oriental Dec 09
Beautiful Inn with luxury eclectic decor and 5 star service. My room was gigantic with all the comforts. Roof top pool was fantastic, we felt like it was our own private retreat. We had a wonderful stay, we will be back! Oct 09
Ecuador and Galapagos - Ecoventura www.ecoventura.com
The trip was FABULOUS and far exceeded our expectations at every level! The Letty was so comfortable and inviting that we didn't want to return to land. I was simply blown away by how close we could get to courting boobies and baby sea lions - not to mention life in the water. This was a snorkeler's paradise: we snorkeled with sea lions and sea turtles every day. We swam with penguins, sharks, rays and huge schools of fish. It was all truly fantastic.
2010 marks a significant year for Ecoventura - the 20th anniversary of the first cruise on the M/Y Eric, our flagship yacht and the only solar powered vessel in Galapagos. We look forward to celebrating this important milestone with you throughout the coming year.
Culinary-school trained chefs have introduced a reduced calorie, healthy dining menu built around natural and organic foods purchased locally from island farmers. Ecoventura’s pacesetting approach to healthier fare underscores our holistic approach to Galapagos cruising: continued environmental stewardship, and promotion of healthier living and support for local communities.
The new menu has increased its organic content by over 12 percent; nearly 60 percent of produce comes from the Galapagos; only 32 percent of the food products are now shipped from the mainland of Ecuador and the company continues to annually reduce that. Four chefs, three assistants and the purchasing manager attended a weeklong cooking course at the Escuela de Gastronomia de la Universidad Espiritu Santo located in Samborondon (Guayaquil), Ecuador. They learned techniques including sauces, temperatures to create new dishes, the importance of presentation and new, lighter deserts. The new menu can be viewed here
Aerogal fares have increased due to governmental airport taxes effective immediately. For those passengers already paid in full, Ecoventura will absorb this increase. For all unpaid and new invoices, these rates will apply.
We had a fantastic time. The crew were great, the naturalists were both knowledgeable and very entertaining and the itinerary was the best of all cruises. We were delighted to find that there was so much time for snorkelling. All in all a fabulous trip and we heartily recommend the M/Y Eric for anyone planning a trip to the Galapagos.
Ecuador - Huaorani Ecolodge www.huaorani.com
So what did we discover ...... their blow-pipes are enormous and we never expected to learn how to shoot the darts with such accuracy; a machete in the hands of the Huaorani chief could be used like a delicate craft knife; how endearing the young children are when they peer at you out of the long grass as the plane lands; just why the preservation of the rainforest is so vital to the Huaorani not to mention the rest of mankind; a beautiful people; a breathtaking environment; an unforgetable experience ........ don't hesitate!
In November Huaorani Lodge was once again voted Best Sustainable Tourism Project by the UK’s Latin American Trade Association (www.lata.org). Tropic were also ‘Highly Commended’ in the Virgin Holidays Responsible Travel Awards (see Telegraph article online)
Other news:
A pair of Crested Eagles have been spotted nesting close to the Huaorani Ecolodge! These are very rare, large birds - similar to the Harpy Eagle. Our naturalist and Huaorani guides are monitoring.
Work has continued on improving the infrastructure at the Nenkepare camp.
I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Huaorani in November. It was a really fascinating and amazing experience. Thanks to you all for arranging such a memorable trip! RM, Wexas Nov 09
Please also check our innovative Galapagos programme at www.walkingalapagos.com
Peru - Rainforest Expeditions, Tambopata www.perunature.com
[Refugio Amazonas is] a unique lodge set in the jungle, made out of local materials. One wall of our room was "no wall" and open to the jungle. We went to bed with sounds of the jungle and slept like babies. The food was just right for several days of vigorous hiking. Our guide was terrific and had eyes in the back of his head. He didn't miss anything, no matter how well hidden. The highlight was seeing a Jaguar in the wild.
We re-launched our website last week. The main focus was to make it easier to present our special interest products, be more user-friendly, have the content in three languages, include additional and interesting content to support sales, and improve integration to youtube, flickr and Trip Advisor.
At one of our nests near TRC, one that we have been monitoring for a decade, a couple of macaws are successfully raising 3 chicks. They are all older than 50 days, far beyond the critical phase of 20. This would be a scientific sensation as usually only the oldest chick survives and two juveniles from the same couple and season is already something really special!
Since September last year TRC serves coffee and tea at early morning clay lick sessions while waiting for the 'show' to start.
We will be starting our 17th guide course in February.
Posada Amazonas dining area has a new floor.
We didn't have enough time to go deep into the jungle (Tambopata Research Center), so decided on Refugio Amazonas after reading reviews on Trip Advisor and in guide books. I just have to say that it was an amazing four days and would highly recommend. The group was small - the four of us and four others, so it was very personalized, just the perfect balance. Our guide was excellent-friendly and knowledgeable, and a wonderful photographer as well. It truly was an amazing experience.
Peru - Casa Andina Private Collection Suasi Island, Lake Titicaca
My husband and I spent four days here at the end of our honeymoon. We were ready for some long-awaited rest and relaxation. Suasi Island was perfect. The staff were very friendly and helpful. We walked up the hill to watch the sunset one night. The next night we had a guided star-gazing excursion. The food was delicious. Our room looked out onto the gorgeous lake. Every night while we ate dinner, hot water bottles were placed in our bed, and a fire was started in the wood stove. The nights got pretty cold, so it was amazingly cozy to return to such a warm and welcoming room. We loved our stay.
Casa Andina’s new speedboat means Isla Suasi costs 35% less, and daily departures! The new fiberglass speedboat has capacity for 16 pax with airline-style seats, on-board toilet and is equipped with the latest communication and safety technology.
General Casa Andina news -
- Since Sept 09 Mariella Hernandez is Casa Andina’s Social Responsibility Manager.
- Casa Andina was awarded 11th position in the annual Great Place to Work ranking (up 15 places in 09), and is also the only Peruvian Hotel Chain to win this distinction.
- In Nov 09 The Latin American Travel Association (www.lata.org) recognized Casa Andina as the best hotel chain in Latin America
- Casa Andina received Valentin Díaz, its millionth guest, in the Private Collection Arequipa. He was received by a limousine and awarded unlimited lifetime use of our hotels!
- Casa Andina will open its 4th hotel in the region of Arequipa in April 2010. 2 blocks from the Plaza de Armas, an 18th century sillar manor house that was part of the Santa Catalina Convent. 47 rooms with cable tv, café de viajes, colonial interior courtyard, outdoor pool with sundeck, free high speed wifi internet access and internet centre.
- 2 further hotels will open in 2010: Casa Andina Classic – Miraflores Parque and Casa Andina Private Collection – Chincha Hacienda San José
We have been to many places in Europe, United States, Australia, and never have we had such pleasant service, hospitality, ambience, scenery, etc. as we had at your hotels. Believe me, we have certainly told everyone we come in contact with about Peru and the beauty and history of your lovely country. Thank you again for helping make our trip memorable!!! Oct09
Peru - Mountain Lodges of Peru www.mountainlodgesofperu.com
Forget your tents and sleeping bags! On this Inca trail we enjoyed not only fantastic trekking in the stunning landscapes of the Vilcabamba range of the Andes, but also the luxury of hot showers in cosy mountain lodges, pampered by friendly staff who cleaned our boots, served us excellent meals and even slipped a hot water bottle beneath the sheets in our private, heated bedrooms! MLP have put together a very special trip… Gareth, Senderos Dec 2009
Mountain Lodges of Peru honour promotional rates issued for travel between 1st March and 15th April 2010, for bookings made until 31st January 2010. With discounts of up to 60% on the Fixed Departure rack rate and waiving of single supplements, we’re looking to jumpstart the 2010 low season with high occupancy but space is limited; for availability click here.
MLP programs include “unlimited insurance coverage for medical emergency evacuation and treatment for all guests at the lodges”. Insurance is included in the rate, coverage is provided by IHI, a Danish company and member of BUPA Group.
Since its inception, MLP had made a commitment to sustainable practices founding Yanapana , an NGO that works with local communities to alleviate poverty and prevent environmental degradation along the Salkantay Trail. Among the most recent projects are a veterinarian campaign to create and sponsor the opening of a permanent service in the town of Mollepata, and assistance to the Alto Salkantay Women’s Weaving Cooperatives by involving a Spanish designer for new ideas and creative patterns, click here for more info.
MLP will participate again in Travel Mart Latin America to be held in Peru in September. A couple of FAM Trips are in planning around the event. Please enquire for dates and availability.
2011 books are now open for Fixed Departures and Special Group Departures. Dates in high season are running out fast; book quickly for high season (May-September). Contact elisabeth.lr@mountainlodgesofperu.com for available dates.
Social Media - To see guests commenting about their experience or to keep updated with rates, dates & general periodic news, follow us on Twitter (experienceMLP), become a fan on Facebook (experienceMLP) or visit our blog
Last but not least, news of a new lodge! Coming soon in March, Puyuncuy Lodge (photos right) is strategically located a stone’s throw from Mollepata at 2,850 mts, 1 ½ hours from Cusco en-route to the Salkantay Trail. A beautiful boutique adventure mountain lodge with 2 large, fully equipped villas (each with 2 large en-suite rooms) and 1 spacious, unique and very private Villa Suite for 2 guests.
The lodge’s location allows for a wide range of activities: hiking routes, riding for all levels, archaeological visits, visits to the Salkantay Mountain, cultural and experiential visits within the town, helicopter flights to the archaeological site of Choquequirao (said to be larger than Machu Picchu and the Incas’ last stand before their retreat into the jungle). Also ideal for acclimatisation prior to embarking on an excursion on the Salkantay Route.
Please enquire for rates, programs and availability or visit our homepage www.cuscocasapuyuncuy.com
Email info@senderos.co.uk for more information.
