LIMA — Exploring Peru offers travelers a chance to visit some of the world’s most iconic destinations, including Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, and the picturesque Sacred Valley. This journey can be a transformative experience, combining physical adventure with spiritual reflection, and often becomes a once-in-a-lifetime endeavor.
Before setting off on a journey filled with vibrant landscapes and rich history, travelers often hear tales of altitude challenges, steep ascents, and unique local dishes featuring guinea pig and alpaca. As a traveler boards a flight from Toronto (YYZ) to Lima (LIM), they arrive just in time for a stunning sunrise over the vibrant capital. Lima, with its bustling metropolis of over ten million residents, offers a lively atmosphere complemented by a serene coastal backdrop, reminiscent of both Vancouver and San Francisco.
Travelers joining Intrepid Travel’s Premium Walking and Hiking in Peru tour can expect to explore essential sites such as Cusco, the Inca Trail, and of course, Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Before embarking on this adventure, Intrepid offers pre- and post-trip options to spend additional time in Lima, which is particularly beneficial for those traveling from eastern Canada, as the time difference is minimal.
Empowering Women Through Cultural Experiences
A unique aspect of this expedition is the focus on women-centric experiences. Led by guide Ale Vega, the predominantly female group brings a sense of camaraderie and shared adventure. Although Intrepid hasn’t rolled out formal women-only trips yet, they strive to incorporate women-centered initiatives throughout their journeys. According to Nour Shell of Intrepid North America, their tours “celebrate the role of women as leaders, artisans, and changemakers” by providing meaningful experiences that uplift local women.
A highlight of the tour is a stop at AMA Restaurant in Urubamba, where travelers enjoy locally sourced meals crafted by single mothers. This establishment not only serves delicious food but also features a boutique for local women artisans to sell handcrafted items, many made from the finest baby alpaca wool. Owner Julio Hernandez shares the inspiration behind the restaurant: “I wanted to build something in honor of my mother, a single parent who worked hard for a good life.”
Tourism’s Shift Towards Inclusivity
Peru is increasingly embracing the trend of offering options for solo and women travelers. The country’s tourism board, PROMPERÚ, has developed programs that assist travel agents in promoting Peru as a travel destination. With resources available through their Peru Agent program, travel advisors can enhance their knowledge while participating in webinars that offer rewards such as gift cards.
Visiting the village of Willoq introduces travelers to an Indigenous community known for its skilled women weavers, whose vibrant textiles showcase stunning colors and intricate patterns symbolic of Peruvian culture. Dressed in traditional attire, these artisans embody the essence of family and community, often asking personal questions about family life, which fosters a deeper connection between visitors and locals.
As the travelers stroll through spontaneous market stalls showcasing handcrafted goods, each purchase not only serves as a cherished memento but also supports the artisans’ livelihoods. Engaging in culturally immersive experiences like these transforms a simple trip into a memorable journey full of rich interactions.
In conclusion, a trip to Peru can encompass breathtaking landscapes, a vital cultural exchange, and the empowering stories of local women, all woven into a traveler’s unforgettable adventure.
