Monthly Archives: October 2018

Experiences, Hotels

In Conversation with Alan Huisa, Explorer-Guide Leader at Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica

At each Inkaterra hotel, naturalist experts, our Explorer Guides, share their vast knowledge of the local environment with guests. One of the expert explorers Inkaterra are proud to call a member of our team is Alan Huisa, who is the Head Explorer Guide – Tambopata at Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica. Having studied to be an Official Tourism Guide at a National Institute in Puerto Maldonado, Alan has been working at Inkaterra for 10 years. We caught up with him to find out what his favourite excursion is and the best to take children on. Read on to find out more…
 

  1. What does an Inkaterra explorer-guide do?-
    Inkaterra explorer-guides carry out a truthful, rigorous and informed explanation of the environment in which they find themselves. They take into account the natural, historical, geological, economic, social and cultural aspects of the area and educate the travellers on the value of the resources that surround us, as well as the importance of its preservation.
  2. What initially drew you towards Inkaterra?
    – I was interested in joining Inkaterra because of its good practices in sustainable tourism and I hoped to have better opportunities for professional growth.
  3. What do you think is the most important aspect of being Head Explorer Guide at Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica?
    – There are several important aspects but a fundamental one is being in charge of the excursions. Often, the excursions are the main reason our guests visit us so it’s important we exceed their expectations for a jungle adventure they’ll remember.
  4. How does your day-to-day work differ throughout the seasons?
    – Our day-to-day work does not differ much during the seasons as the flora and fauna remain the same year round.
  5. What is your favourite excursion, and why?
    – My favourite excursion is the visit to Lake Sandoval, this is where you can see and observe wildlife the best.
    Lake Sandoval at Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica
  6. What have you learned since becoming the Head Explorer Guide at Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica?
    – I have learned a lot since becoming the Head Explorer Guide at Inkaterra, from service and teamwork to leadership skills.
  7. What’s the most thrilling fact that you learned about the Amazon while you were training?
    – While training, I learned to value all that surrounds us, and that every living thing has a purpose.
  8. What are the most incredible sights you think guests should see at Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica?
    – The most incredible places to visit are Lake Sandoval, Lake Valencia, the Inkaterra canopy walkway, the parrot clay lick. Of course, you must not miss the spectacular sunrise and sunset.
    Inkaterra Canopy Walkway
  9. What excursions are the best to go on with children, and why?
    – There are many excursions that you can go on with children but I especially recommend Lake Sandoval, because you will be able to observe wildlife very closely. As well as Lake Valencia where guests can try piranha fishing. Visit “Inka Tots: A kid’s guide to Inkaterra” to find out more.
  10. What is the most adventurous aspect of your role?
    – As Head Explorer Guide I have the opportunity to explore new places in search of future excursions.
  11. In your opinion what is the most fascinating aspect of the Amazon that is rarely asked about?
    – People rarely ask what we could do in order to help save animals that are in danger of extinction.
  12. What makes an exceptional guide?
    – There are many attributes that make a good guide but I believe the passion they show when talking about nature, and their commitment to taking care of it, are what make an Explorer Guide exceptional.
  13. Do you think it’s important to educate guests on sustainable tourism?
    – It is very important to educate guests on sustainable tourism as not all travellers are aware of or involved in this issue.
  14. Do you think that it is important for Inkaterra Explorer Guides to be local to the area?
    – It is a good asset to have but I would not say it’s important; what’s crucial is their commitment to do a great job.
  15. Have you got any tips for someone travelling to Peru for the first time?
    – Come and appreciate the diversity of the flora and wildlife that surrounds you.
    Fauna at Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica

When visiting Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica, you can meet Alan and the other exceptional Inkaterra Explorer Guides. With them, you can learn about the beautiful flora and fauna that is so abundant in the Amazon jungle. Discover more at Inkaterra.com.

The Day of Creole Song
Events, Our Peru

The Day of Creole Song; Día de la Canción Criolla

Amid the fast approaching All Hallows’ Eve, where faux cobwebs adorn the streets, and apparitions of commercialised ghosts and neighbours disguised in a multitude of outlandish costumes are predictable scenarios, there is promise of unswerving culture in sight.
It has been a long standing Peruvian tradition to celebrate local musical wonders on The Day of Creole Song (‘Día de la Canción Criolla’ in Spanish). The performance event, hosted by The Ministry of Culture, takes place each year on 31st October along the Peruvian coast and Andean highlands, and serves to bring together a medley of provincial music whilst providing a platform where musicians feel free to showcase their skills.

The Day of Creole Song

Photo: perutraveltips.org


First orchestrated in 1944, the occasion was actualised to acclaim the time-honoured Creole genre. The music stems from an eclectic history of Spanish influence and African communities in Peru and is typically created using instruments such as the guitar and the Peruvian cajón; this is a traditional box-shaped percussion instrument which is played by beating its different faces with one’s hands or tools such as brushes or mallets.
Accompanied by an array of cultural dances such as the Peruvian national dance, the Marinera, and Vals Criolla (the Peruvian Waltz), the event is a jovial occasion which coincidentally falls on the same day as Halloween. Travellers and locals alike can therefore be found in main town squares celebrating both in unison.
Marinera Dance

Photo: kuodatravel.com


Throughout generations, Creole has been subject to many international musical influences. The premise therefore of The Day of Creole Song is rooted in the longevity and preservation of this musical style, sense of community and young talents. Find out more about Día de la Canción Criolla on our blog and visit Inkaterra.com to be informed on the natural marvels of Peru.

Food and Drink, Our Peru, Uncategorized

Peru's Coffee Route

Due to the high altitudes, winds that sweep across the land from the Pacific Ocean and alternating periods of warming sun and thirst-quenching rain, the Peruvian climate provides ideal growing conditions for the Arabica coffee bean. Now at number seven of the world’s largest coffee growing countries, Peru is also known globally for being predominantly environmentally friendly. Peru is one of the main producers of organic and fair trade coffee beans in the world, and this is something that we, at Inkaterra, are very proud of.
The Peruvian coffee route takes you along the ancient Inca Trail
Travellers and Peruvians alike can take the breath-taking coffee route from the bustling city of Cusco (or Ollantaytambo) all the way to the beautiful Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Gain a deeper understanding of your favourite hot beverage by visiting local communities, walk the well-preserved Inca Trail and enjoy a variety of activities revolving around coffee.
Finish your Coffee Route at the Stunning Machu Picchu
Find out exactly how your coffee is made, from learning about the best time to pick beans all the way to what temperature coffee is best served at. During an adventurous and intrepid trek on the historic Inca Trail, visit the incredible, centuries-old native farms, all using traditional Andean techniques to grow their unique coffee beans.
Coffee beans
Having conquered Machu Picchu and starting your descent, you can continue this exciting visit to the coffee plantations all over the Andean landscape via another trail. After this coffee route, there is nothing more satisfying than a fresh local coffee from our scenic restaurant Café Inkaterra, overlooking the serene Vilcanota River. The perfect spot to sip on a cup of rich, smooth Arabica and mull over all of the incredible things you have learned about Peruvian coffee, while you wait for your train back to Cusco.
Café Inkaterra
Our Inkaterra coffee beans are grown just moments away from the scenic café in Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel’s plentiful and exuberant tropical organic garden. Our luxurious lodge reflects the environmentally friendly ethos of Peruvian coffee bean farming and you will see extensions of this practice throughout elements of your stay.
Other organic and environmentally friendly initiatives at Inkaterra include a biodiesel production plant, which reduces the use of fossil fuels and helps prevent oil spills; the Earth to Table initiative (only at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba); a bear sanctuary for endangered Andean Spectacled bears; and an organic tea plantation that produces excellent tea available exclusively at Inkaterra, where guests are welcome to visit and produce their very own tea bag. Coffee beans are much more than a quick pick-me-up in Peru, they are an integral part of our countries’ culture and landscape, to be appreciated and preserved.

Señor de los Milagros
Experiences, Food and Drink, Hotels, Our Peru

El Señor de los Milagros; The traditional processions of the Lord of Miracles

The Catholic processions of the Lord of Miracles take place in Lima every year during the month of October. The occasion is in remembrance of the events that transpired following a life-changing earthquake which took place in Lima and El Callao in the 17th century. In the wake of this natural disaster, those in the affected villages had very little remaining and turned to the sole standing element, a mural of the crucified Christ, for religious guidance and direction. The mural, painted by a former slave against an unassuming clay building, had many attempts on its existence as authorities prohibited its adoration and endeavoured to destroy it. Standing the test of time, the mural has become the most highly venerated symbol in Latin America.
Following the initial earthquake, a second occurred in the city, causing chaos to the surrounding villages except for the adored mural. This phenomenon was the catalyst which invigorated the dwellers to foment the first Lord of Miracles procession. This event began as an Afro-Peruvian practice as a profession of their faith and was subsequently adopted by the Creole middle class in the 18th century.
Processions of the Lord of Miracles in Peru
Today, the event is one of the largest of its kind in South America. Comprising some 2,500 people, the processions take place in central Lima and are festivals of flags, bunting and bursts of colour. The format of the event follows a walking convoy of transporting a mural replica from its base on men´s shoulders. Starting at the “Iglesia de las Nazarenas” and progressing to different churches spread across Lima, the processions cross areas such as the historic city centre, La Victoria and Barrios Altos – a nearby city located east of the historic centre and streets, which also leads back to the “Iglesia de las Nazarenas”. During the processions of El Señor de los Milagros, participants are clothed in purple attire which is significant of their devotion and a representation of the patience possessed by the women who cared for the church. For this reason, in Lima, October is commonly referred to as Mes Morado or the “purple month”.  
traditional processions of the Lord of Miracles
As one of the most popular events in the city, with thousands in attendance each year to participate and to observe, there are many family-friendly ways to get involved. Local vendors on neighbouring streets showcase religious ornaments and traditional signature dishes. Turron nougat, picarones and turrón de Doña Pepa are just a few of the delectable dishes you can expect to see during a Señor de los Milagros procession.
Representing a long-lasting faith, resilience and pursuit of happiness, El Señor de los Milagros is an integral part of Peruvian culture which also offers a vibrant atmosphere of people, hymns and local delights and is certainly not one to be missed.
Get informed on more of Peru’s treasured traditions by visiting our website, Inkaterra.com, and to learn more about processions and celebrations in Peru, read our blogs ‘Inkaterra´s book dedicated to the “Lord of Miracles‘ and ‘Festival season in Peru’. It should also be noted that Inkaterra previously published the book “El Señor de los Milagros” which was subsequently gifted to Pope Francis in 2014, during Peru’s former President’s visit to the Vatican.