Exploring Peru: An Adventure in 28 Climates

Peru’s amazingly diverse geography and climatic zones boast a variety of weather patterns, whose splendor is matched only by the fascinating history inscribed throughout the country’s landscape. As home to 28 of the world’s 32 climates, Peru’s biodiversity makes it a unique destination to anyone looking for a truly memorable experience. Although Peru is located very close to the equator, weather patterns are also strongly affected by the Humboldt Current and the Andes Mountains.
The Humboldt Current is an ocean current that flows along the South American coast from Chile up to Peru. It flows in the direction of equator, and has a very large effect on Peru’s rainfall and temperatures along the coast. Primarily, the presence of the Humboldt Current keeps Peru’s central and southern coast extremely dry, while the northern coast still receives somewhat regular rainfall. The Humboldt Current is also a very strong upwelling current (water moves from deeper depths towards the surface), which brings cold, nutrient-packed water to the surface and results in a rich ecosystem along the Peruvian Coast. Because the water in the Current is quite cold, the water cools the marine air, and thus prevents it from creating much rain along Peru’s central and southern coastline.
The Andes are the longest exposed mountain range on the planet and have an average height of approximately 13,000 feet. They stretch across seven countries in South America (Chile, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador and Venezuela), and Aconcagua is their tallest peak at 22,840 feet. Because this mountain range stretches through a variety of climates and weather patterns, the climatic diversity offers adventurous travelers the chance to explore a myriad of geographies within Peru. The weather patterns in the Andes range from humid with high rainfall, which can be found in northern Peru, to areas that are very arid and have less precipitation, which is common in the southern regions in the country.
Peru’s biodiversity is continually affected by the presence of the Humboldt Current and that of the Andes, and this combination results in weather patterns and climates that continue to amaze those individuals that travel to Peru to explore its natural wonders. The temperatures vary greatly depending on the specific region, and this variety adds even more excitement to an already fascinating country.

The Mysterious Chachapoya Mummies of Peru

Located in the Andes Mountains of Northern Peru, there once existed a culture that thrived in their independent dwellings. A short time before the Spanish invaded South America and conquered the Inca Empire, the Incas had conquered the Chachapoya people, assimilating them into their massive fold. It is for this reason that the Chachapoya culture remains mysterious – there is very little direct information about this ancient Peruvian people. Most of the available information is either from the Incas or the Spanish – and we all know history is written by the winners.
In the past few years, the mystery of the “People of the Clouds” has resurfaced because of pertinent archeological discoveries, including the discovery of an enclave of well preserved mummies in the Utcubamba Valley. Over the course of the last 15 years, over 200 Chachapoya mummies have been discovered. The ones that weren’t looted or moved by government officials are in remarkable shape; each one was wrapped and preserved with herbs, all internal organs were removed and the facial orifices were stuffed with cotton.
Although mummification is so closely tied with Egyptian culture, the misconception exists that the Egyptians were also the first known culture to intentionally mummify their deceased. This is actually not the case. The oldest artificial mummies were discovered in Northern Chile and Southern Peru. The earliest Chincorro mummies date back to 5,000 B.C. which predates the first Egyptian mummies by almost 1,500 years. The tradition of mummification is well known in South America and archeologists are still discovering this tradition spread far and wide across the continent.
The amazing Chachapoya mummies can be found at the Museo Leymebamba, located high in the Northern Andes of Peru. Showcasing some ancient Inca artifacts, the museum mainly focuses on the funerary practices of the Chachapoya and has over 100 mummies from the Lake of the Condors, the largest known Chachapoya burial site in Peru.

The Inca Trail: A Brief Overview

The classic 4-day Inca Trail hiking route from the Peruvian city of Cusco to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most popular treks for its beautiful Andean scenery and compelling history. However, this famous route is just a small part of the extensive network of roads that connected the immense territory of the Inca Empire.

The Inca Empire was the largest ancient civilization in pre-Columbian America. The Incas, who flourished from approximately 1200 to 1533 AD, grew their empire through military conquests and peaceful assimilation, eventually occupying an extensive area in the Andes Mountains in what is now western South America. As a means to traverse this large empire, the Incas built a network of approximately 25,000 miles of roads that covered 1.2 million square miles. Reaching from the northern city of Quito, Ecuador, to modern-day Santiago, Chile, this network included over 20 routes that traversed terrain up to 16,000 feet.

Providing crucial pathways between cities, government centers, agricultural areas and sacred complexes, the road system allowed the Incas to easily move within their extensive empire. While the Inca Trail network was built upon existing roads, some of which were built centuries before, many of the routes were added and upgraded to meet the needs of the flourishing Inca Empire.

While only 25 percent of the Incas’ original road system is visible today, visitors are rewarded with historic treasures scattered along the remaining route. The historic trail features archeological wonders, such as the ruins of Ingapirca in Ecuador, as well as rare flora and fauna and spectacular scenery. Machu Picchu, the most famous remnant of the Inca civilization, was located far off the main roads due to its remote location in Peru’s Urubamba Valley. Yet, the popular 4-day hiking path from Cusco to the ancient complex remains the most popular with adventure travelers for its mesmerizing views of the high Peruvian Andes and its accessible pathway to one of the most incredible remnants of the Inca Empire, the ruins of Machu Picchu.

For active journeyers interested in traveling along the path of the ancient Incas without the crowds of the 4-day Inca Trail, the 7-day Salkantay (Salcantay) route is a great option. Mountain Lodges of Peru (MLP), a premier local tour operator, was the first operator in the region to offer a lodge-to-lodge trek along this alternative Inca Trail route. This unique Machu Picchu tour allows hikers to experience adventure-filled days combined with relaxing nights at MLP’s luxury eco-lodges, strategically located along the trail. Built in accordance with traditional Incan construction techniques, this trip ensures travelers will experience the history and mystique of the Inca Empire both on and off the trail.

Mountain Lodges of Peru Partners with Rainforest Alliance

Mountain Lodges of Peru has just signed a project agreement with Rainforest Alliance, an international, non-profit and sustainable development organization.

The agreement began on November 10th, 2009 and includes an evaluation and the improvement of environmental & socio-cultural aspects of Mountain Lodges of Peru’s operation throughout the Salkantay Route. Rainforest Alliance will help MLP improve its practices while sharing the objective of promoting sustainable management in the company and field.

Mountain Lodges of Peru hopes to empower its existing environmental and social sustainability projects which are currently in development by MLP’s Eco-Team and NGO Yanapana Peru.

This alliance means that MLP can now rely on an environmental specialist, Rainforest Alliance, to provide guidance and support in the transition towards cleaner and more renewable energy systems for its own operation, as well as benchmarking proven industry experience for small operational issues which end up making a big difference in the end. This is a form to contribute to the well being of the communities in MLP’s area of influence.

Agreement Between Mountain Lodges of Peru and the Missouri Botanical Garden in Association with the Universidad Nacional San Antonio Abad of Cusco

Mountain Lodges of Peru has signed an agreement with the Missouri Botanical Garden, a center for botanical research and science education, and the Universidad Nacional San Antonio Abad of Cusco.

Both organizations have agreed to develop scientific investigation and furthermore to establish a cooperation agreement. Therefore, they will develop research and conservation projects in the “Salkantay Trail”, which is the area of influence in which Mountain Lodges of Peru operates its Machu Picchu Lodge to Lodge Trek program.

The project will study the flora biodiversity throughout the collection of different species of plants that are non-commercial. MLP will cooperate looking for financial support and will help in providing unique and duplicate exemplary of flowers obtained during the explorations.

This is a small example of the continuous projects that Mountain Lodges of Peru has and that contribute to the well being of the communities and protection of the environment.

Off the Beaten Path in Peru: The Moche Civilization

Most travelers automatically associate Peru with the famed Incas and Machu Picchu. However, Peru is a country rich in culture and history – and not all of that legacy belongs to the Incas. Over the past few years, archeologists have begun to focus more attention on ruins scattered in Northern Peru and along the coast, most of which belong to the Moche civilization – a culture that predates the Incas by almost 700 years.

In the late 1980’s, Peruvian archeologist Walter Alva discovered a mummy in an undisturbed tomb, now referred to as the “Lord of Sipan.” This Peruvian region where the Lord of Sipan was discovered, Huaca Rajada, is a known burial location for the Moche and four tombs have been unearthed here. Because of the status and position of ruler that the Lord of Sipan held in Moche culture, he was buried with eight other people, including his wife, two concubines, a watchman, military commander, and child. Beneath his tomb, an older Lord of Sipan was also found along with the tomb of a priest.

Recent discoveries about the Moche civilization has created a buzz throughout Peru. Previously known for producing diverse and intricate pottery, evidence suggests the Moche mass-produced pots and ceramics using molding technology. Over the past few decades, archeologists have begun to investigate the historical importance of the paintings on the ceramics, including pictures of gruesome acts of war and ritual slaughters. The mosaics on the walls of the Huaca de la Luna and the Huaca del Sol, two pyramids located 4 kilometers outside the city of Trujillo in Northern Peru, also display similar pictures.

In recent years, new evidence has surfaced proving these images were much more than creative works of art. During the excavation of a nearby plaza, two layers of human remains were unearthed, one from 150 A.D. and the other from 500 A.D. Forensic evidence suggests that most of the remains belonged to young men who participated in combat regularly. Further investigation revealed that the men died from having their throats slit or had been decapitated, paralleling the images depicted on the walls throughout the region.

Although Peruvian travel has been previously dominated by historical trips to Machu Picchu and various other Inca ruins, the Moche are proving to be an interesting alternative as more historical information is uncovered.

Mountain Lodges of Peru Sustainiblity Programs on Green Living Project!

Mountain Lodges of Peru hosted in April 2009 the Green Living Project crew (http://www.greenlivingproject.com/) which came to film our sustainability projects we are doing in conjunction with NGO Yanapana Peru (http://www.yanapana.org/) and MLP's EcoTeam.

Green Living Project is dedicated to filming sustainability projects worldwide and then tours around the whole United States presenting the projects in this incredible events where you can be able to learn about the projects and if you are interested, see how you can help out in any of the ones you feel like participating in.

Watch the video about Mountain Lodges of Peru's sustainability programs by pressing on this link: http://www.greenlivingproject.com/south-america-projects/mountain-lodges-of-peru/ and learn more as to what MLP does in helping the community and environment in the areas in which we operate.

If you wish any more detailed information about our projects, don't hesitate in emailing us at info@mountainlodgesofperu.com and we will gladly send you more information and participation opportunities.

Machu Picchu: “The Lost City of the Incas”

Perched on a mountain ridge overlooking the Urubamba Valley in the high Peruvian Andes, Machu Picchu is one of the most famous archeological discoveries in the world. This World Heritage site, constructed by the ancient Incas, receives thousands of visitors per day looking to explore the legacy of the largest empire of pre-Columbian South America. While the allure of this site can be attributed in part to its remarkable state of preservation and impressive archeological qualities, it also stems from the mysterious history of “The Lost City of the Incas.”

The Incas built Machu Picchu in approximately 1462 AD at the height of their power, but the site was abandoned less than 100 years later during the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire. However, despite the invasion, the sacred site was unknown to the Spanish due to its carefully hidden and well-protected location in the high Andean terrain. While other Incan establishments in the lower Urubamba Valley were raided and plundered by the Spanish conquistadors under Francisco Pizarro, Machu Picchu remained concealed amidst the jungle – where it would remain hidden for the next 400 years.

While Andean locals knew of Machu Picchu’s existence, the ancient citadel wasn’t revealed to the rest of the world until American explorer and historian Hiram Bingham “rediscovered” the site in 1911. Bingham, who was in search of the Inca city of Vilcapampa, was led to the hidden citadel by a local Quechua boy. After his discovery, the historian referred to the incredible archeological find as “The Lost City of the Incas.”

Despite a century of examination and scholarship, the purpose of Machu Picchu remains a mystery. Located 80 kilometers northwest of the Peruvian city of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, the most common theory proposes that the site was used as a retreat for the Incan emperor Pachacuti. Due to its location on an impassable ridge 1,300 feet above the Urubamba River, it remains unlikely that the Incas would have used the complex for any type of administrative or commercial purposes. Other theories maintain that the site was used as a military outpost, or as an important religious center.

While the exact function of Machu Picchu remains shrouded in mystery, the ancient site’s superb archaeological ruins and breathtaking Andean setting will surely continue to entice visitors for many years to come.

A Brief History of the Inca Empire

While Peru’s vibrant culture and breathtaking Andean landscapes continue to entice travelers worldwide, the history of the ancient Inca Empire is one of the most alluring draws when opting for a Peru vacation. Whether choosing the popular 4-day Inca Trail trek or a tour of the mesmerizing ruins of Machu Picchu, travelers flock to Peru to immerse themselves in the fascinating history of this mysterious civilization.

The Inca Empire, which flourished from approximately 1200 to 1533 AD, was the largest ancient civilization in pre-Columbian America. Arising from the Andean highlands of Peru sometime in the early 13th century, the Incas established their capital in the city of Cusco, located in modern-day Peru. Through military conquests and peaceful assimilation tactics, the civilization grew to occupy a large territory in the Andes Mountains in what is now western South America. At the height of their power, the Incas ruled a population of approximately 5 to 11 million people. The empire finally fell in the early 16th century after the Spanish Conquest, led by the famous conquistador Francisco Pizarro.

The ancient Incas’ official language was Quechua; however, over seven hundred local dialects were spoken, a reflection of the vast territory the empire occupied. Even without a written language, the Incas accomplished incredible engineering feats, including suspension bridges and roads to cross steep Andean valleys. The Incas also constructed large stone buildings without the use of mortar; the pieces fit together so perfect that even a single knife blade couldn’t pass through the junctures. The ancient complex of Machu Picchu, perched on a cliff above the Urubamba Valley, is one of the most magnificent examples of the Incas’ architectural ingenuity and skill. Due to Machu Picchu’s remote location in the highlands of the Peruvian Andes, the Spanish conquistadors did not know of the sanctuary’s existence, leaving it unharmed during the conquest.

In addition to the Incas’ complex political system and polytheistic religion, there are many more fascinating facts about the Inca Empire. By choosing to visit some of the numerous Inca sites scattered throughout Peru, such as Cusco and Machu Picchu, travelers are sure to be rewarded with the rich history of this ancient civilization.

Machu Picchu: An Endangered Species?

The majestic ruins of Machu Picchu sprawl along the edge of a cliff overlooking the Urubamba Valley in Peru, dominating the landscape and proving the site’s prowess as one of the most sought-after locations for travelers. Included on almost every “Top 100 Things to See in Your Lifetime” list, the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu are shrouded in mystery and elegance. However, according to the World Monument Foundation, this locale in Peru is in danger of crumbling down the cliff.

The World Monument Foundation, a nonprofit organization, has composed a list of 93 at-risk sites across 47 countries. WMF helps to raise money to protect cultural heritage sites around the world in an effort to preserve sites for generations to come. According to WMF, this international treasure is slowly being damaged by the unchecked and unmanaged tourism. In total, there are over 2,500 visitors to this location daily, creating a strain on the structures that have withstood the test of time. This once isolated retreat can be accessed by foot, train, and bus, and the local government has put plans in motion to make Machu Picchu even more easily accessible without increasing protection to the site.

With the urbanization of the surrounding area, including the spreading of Cusco, Machu Picchu and other Inca ruins within the area are being eroded by the constant influx of visitors. Stone structures and platforms that have survived wars, earthquakes, and foul weather are being threatened by sightseers. However, Jorge Zegarra, the head of the National Institute of Culture located in Cusco, Peru, has stated that UNESCO is the only organization that can declare a monument at risk. Zegarra claims that the visitors and plans to expand the entrance to Machu Picchu pose no threat to the conservation of the region.

Whatever the case may be, it is important to understand the impact of every step you take as a traveler on the surrounding environment. When traveling to places such as the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu, be sure to research what influence your trip will have on the culture, people, and environment. Research and book a trip with an adventure company that gives back to local conservation efforts like Mountain Lodges of Peru. Using local operators, environmentally friendly lodges, and sustainable tourism methods, MLP ensures that each traveler has a minimal impact in order to keep Machu Picchu and the beautiful landscapes of Peru in good condition for years to come.

2009 Season Finale Promotion!!

Mountain Lodges of Peru has issued a special SUPER Season Finale Promotion for its famed Machu Picchu Lodge to Lodge Trek through the Salkantay Route in Cusco, Peru. Enjoy this unique and exclusive trip through this ancient Inka trail and sleep in our four exclusive lodges before you reach the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.

The promotion consists of the following:

- 1st guest in a room: Full rate but NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT!

- 2nd guest in the same room: 40% DISCOUNT OFF THE NORMAL RATE!

- 3rd guest in the same room: 60% DISCOUNT OFF THE NORMAL RATE!

The following conditions apply for this promotion:

- Valid only for our Machu Picchu Lodge to Lodge Trek 7 day & 6 night Cusco to Cusco program.

- Offer valid for NEW bookings made between October 1st, 2009 and December 31st, 2009 for travel between October 1st, 2009 through April 15th, 2010.

- Deposit, payment, cancellation, and transfer policies apply the same as for the regular program.

Take advantage of this GREAT promotion and come along and enjoy the great views of the Andean Mountains, learn about the history of the Inkas, feel the mysticism that only Machu Picchu can give you, and relax at our four lodges after a day's trek.

For more information, please contact us via email at info@mountainlodgesofperu.com and we will gladly help you out with your booking.

Happy Trekking!!

Peru 101

As Peru gains popularity, this previously discovered destination deserves to be revisited for many reasons. Located in the northwestern region of South America, the renowned destination of Peru has traditionally been associated with Machu Picchu and the mystery of the Incas. Although a trek to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail (or less crowded Salkantay Route) is worth a trip to this legendary Latin American country in itself, Peru has about every landscape possible, including over 2,600 km of sandy tropical beaches, the lush jungles of the Amazon rainforest, and the high mountain plateaus of the Andes.
For the first-time adventure traveler to Peru, there are a few destinations and revelations to be discussed. First of all, set aside some time to travel through the different areas of this diverse country. The Pacific coastline of Peru is a spectacular site known for having excellent surfing, deep sea fishing, windsurfing, and sailing. The inland areas encompass the Amazon Basin, comprised of dense jungle filled with a wealth of wildlife and unique flora. Take a boat ride along the Amazon River to see the interior of this exclusive terrain and enjoy the solace that comes with being deep in the jungle.
Lima, the illustrious capital of Peru, has become a dichotomy of European chic and South American poverty. With a wealthy downtown, affluent suburbs lining the coast, and shantytowns spreading into the surrounding areas, this Peruvian city is full of culture and variety. With a microclimate that beckons cooler temperatures and a consistent fog bank throughout the year, Lima is far from the sultry paradise one would expect when traveling to the tropics. Rich in history and full of the Latin love for life, Lima encompasses the spirit of the country and serves as the pulse of Peru.
For the cultural experience of a lifetime, a trip to Lake Titicaca is unparalleled. Located on the border between Peru and Bolivia, this is the largest lake in South America and the highest navigable lake in the world. Comprised of 41 islands, some of which are densely populated, Lake Titicaca is known as the heart of Incan mythology, with Isla del Sol being considered the birthplace of the Incan sun god. With over 180 ruins sprinkled over the island, adventure travelers will need to allot a fair amount of time to explore the lake, islands, and people who reside here.
Plan to take at least one multi-day hiking trip in the Andes. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a 4-day trek, is by far the most popular route, although other trails such as the Salkantay Route offer a comparable experience without the crowds (a great option is the 7-day lodge-to-lodge trek along the Salkantay Route, offered by local operator Mountain Lodges of Peru). Most trekking adventures begin in Cusco, the “Gateway to Machu Picchu” and the ancient capital of the Incas. Explore the wonders of Urubamba, also known as the Sacred Valley, as the many hiking trails leading to the famous Inca ruins of Machu Picchu weave their way through this valley, into the Andes, and high into the cloud forest. Also accessible by train, Machu Picchu can now be visited by travelers of all ages and fitness levels.
Whether you’re interested in vibrant cityscapes, charming towns, ancient wonders, breathtaking alpine scenery, or lush tropical jungles, Peru is a great option for every type of active traveler.

Hiking the Salkantay Route - An Alternate Inca Trail Trek

The awe-inspiring mountain range surrounding the ancient city of Machu Picchu, a must-see Peru travel site, is one of the world’s most enchanting landscapes. The “Land of the Incas,” as this Peruvian region is known, offers ancient Incan ruins and breathtaking alpine scenery, a winning combination for any adventure traveler. In response to the thousands of trekkers that hike along the traditional Inca Trail route from Cusco to Machu Picchu each year, Mountain Lodges of Peru offers the Salkantay Route as an alternative hiking option. The trail features similar natural and historic wonders, without the crowds found on the traditional route.

Aside from avoiding the throngs of travelers who hike the Inca Trail each year, the Salkantay (Salcantay) Route offers a lodge-to-lodge trekking option that is ideal for Peru travelers looking for premier hiking opportunities, without sacrificing a good night sleep or other comforts of luxury travel. This alternative route to Machu Picchu winds through the Cordillera Vilcabamba, a stunning mountain range in the heart of the Andes. By day, lodge-to-lodge hikers will travel through lush cloud forests and small, traditional villages while passing stunning natural wonders, such as the Salkantay peak and Humantay Glacier Lake. By night, trekkers will enjoy the comforts of the mountain lodges, including delicious cuisine, heated rooms, hot showers, satellite phones and internet.

Mountain Lodges of Peru, a premier Peru adventure tour provider and the first company to offer lodge-to-lodge treks along the Salkantay Route, offers a 7-day adventure along this unique hiking trail. This distinctive Machu Picchu tour option features adventure-filled days, combined with relaxing nights at luxury eco-lodges. Built according to eco-friendly practices and influenced by traditional Incan construction techniques, the adventure lodges used by MLP ensure that guests will experience the wonders of the Peruvian landscape without negatively impacting this rich environment.

In addition to a thrilling 6-day trek through the Andes, this weeklong adventure from Mountain Lodges of Peru features a guided tour of the mysterious ruins of the “lost city” of Machu Picchu – being this the ultimate Peru tour package to experience the fascinating history, cultural charm, and unparalleled flora and fauna of this special South American region.

Often considered more scenic than the traditional 4-day Inca Trail path, the Salkantay Route takes trekkers through fifteen bio-zones, across stunning mountain passes, and to heights up to 15,000 feet, along its path to the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu. For travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind Peruvian adventure experience, a lodge-to-lodge trek along this alternative Inca Trail route is a can’t miss choice.

Giddy Up in Peru: Exploring Machu Picchu on Horseback

With towering snow-capped peaks, lush alpine valleys, Amazonian jungle, and a pristine coastline, it is no wonder that Peru continues to draw adventure travelers from across the globe. Thrill seekers and outdoors enthusiasts flock to this South American nation for its wealth of adventure pursuits, from trekking and rock climbing to whitewater rafting and surfing. While the options are endless, one of the top spots for Peru travel is the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu, located in the Andes Mountains above the spectacular Urubamba Valley.

Peru’s Machu Picchu region is a must-see for any adventurer for its natural beauty, rich ancient history, and vibrant culture. While most active travelers to this area choose to hike the Inca Trail from Cuzco to Machu Picchu, another adventurous way to explore this Peruvian region is a horseback riding vacation to this enchanting part of the Andes. Equestrian tours provide opportunities to explore the breathtaking terrain along paths carved out by the ancient Incas in a new and exciting manner.

Many operators running equestrian vacations in Peru use Peruvian Paso horses, specially bred for the Andes terrain. The Peruvian Paso, or Peruvian Horse, is known for its smooth ride and named for its four-beat lateral gait, called the “paso llano.” Descended from the horses of the Spanish Conquistadors, this breed of royal origin is also noted for its gentle nature, making it the perfect companion for a Peru adventure tour.

Similar to hiking and trekking adventures in the spectacular Machu Picchu region, equestrian tours also offer riders the chance to explore the natural wonders and ancient ruins of this stunning landscape, while staying in premier accommodations. These lodge-to-lodge horseback riding options are a great way to explore the wonders of this terrain – from the Salkantay peak, the second most sacred point in Inca mythology after Machu Picchu, to the Humantay Lake, a scenic body of water fed by glaciers on the slopes above.

After exploring these mesmerizing sites by day, lodge-to-lodge riders stay at one of the premier resorts in the region, such as Mountain Lodges of Peru’s Salkantay Lodge and Adventure Resort at Soraypampa. MLP, an award-winning Peru tour company, also offers equestrian vacations from its Vinak-Reichraming Lodge, nestled in Peru’s Sierra region. Horseback riding tour participants can take advantage of the lodges’ delicious cuisine, plush accommodations, first-class service, and premier horses and riding options. Travelers can also choose to combine a horseback riding excursion with a number of other activities, including hiking, cultural tours, and fishing, among others.

For a one-of-a-kind adventure tour to Machu Picchu, try a horseback riding vacation to experience the rich history, stunning vistas, and enchanting culture of this spectacular Peruvian region.

Mountain Lodges of Peru wins TO DO! Award

Mountain Lodges of Peru is the winner of the TO DO! - Contest for Socially Responsible Tourism 2008!

The prize was awarded Friday 13th 2009 at the ITB Travel Fair in Berlin by the renown Institute for Tourism and Development .

This is an amazing ackowledgement of MLP's work in the field of eco-tourism and social responsibility in only two years of operation. Please find herewith a link to the interview with Enrique Umbert Jr and Enrique Umbert Sr by Valere Tjolle, editor of Travelmole, recorded during ITB. This interview is very informative about the history of Mountain Lodges of Peru - http://travelmole.tv/watch_vdo.php?sid=87&id=14990

Mountain Lodges of Peru in National Geographic Traveler May 2009 Issue

Mountain Lodges of Peru has appeared in the "50 Tours of a Lifetime" issue of the prestigious magazine National Geographic Traveler in its May 2009 edition.

This recognition follows a previous one done by National Geographic Adventure magazine in its November 2007 issue when it recognized MLP's Machu Picchu Lodge to Lodge Trek as one of the "25 Best New Trips" for the 2008 season.

This trip, done through the Salkantay Route, an alternative Inca trail to the traditional one that is highly promoted and overcrowded, will take the guest trekking the Cordillera Vilcabamba in the Peruvian Andes and be able to stay in four pristine, high comfort lodges throughout the route. During the day, you will be able to trek through snow - capped mountains, never ending valleys, and be surrounded by extreme views of the cloud forest. At night, enjoy and relax in the outdoor heated jacuzzis and delight yourself with exquisite gourmet cuisine, all of this with a highly personalized service given by our local staff.

Don't be left out in experiencing this great trip and book your trip now! For more information, you can visit our website at http://www.mountainlodgesofperu.com

Hope to see you on the trail soon!