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The highlights of this unique program are homestays with both the Quechua-speaking people of the Andean mountain village of Chinchero and the Yine Tribal Community in the Manu Biosphere Reserve of the central Amazon rainforest. The people of Chinchero have invited Crooked Trails to assist them in setting up locally operated, community-based ecotourism programs. We will live with local families in conditions that are simple yet comfortable and will participate in the daily activities of the village, such as making bread, working in the fields, attending tribal council meetings, or joining in village celebrations. The focus of our days in Chinchero will be on working with the locals to develop sustainable tourism projects and meeting with local weavers, carvers, beekeepers, farmers, and families who wish to participate. In addition, we will learn about medicinal plants and traditional healing on guided walks with the village shaman. Other activities will include Quechua language lessons, music, dancing, and storytelling.
In the Amazon our days will be spent hiking through the rainforest with our Yine guides and learning about the incredible diversity of plant and animal life. The Yine have developed an ecolodge and tourism services that contribute to economic stability and the conservation of their culture. We will stay in comfortable jungle lodges and visit local communities to learn about indigenous culture and sustainable development efforts. We will be working with the Yine to bring their voice to the rest of their world in a new project.
This program will also explore many of Peru’s major sights, including the magnificent ancient capital of Cuzco with its narrow streets and rich history. We will spend several days in the Sacred Valley of the Inca exploring ruins and visiting colorful markets. We will also hike a portion of the Inca Trail to visit the magnificent ruins at Machu Picchu. The hiking is at high altitudes and can be challenging, but anyone in good physical condition with a willingness to try can easily make it with the support of our local guides.
Return to Peru
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Amazon and the Inca
Program length: 11 days
Dates:
02 Aug to 12 Aug, 2009
Grade: Easy-Moderate
Price: $2,495 plus airfare
Sample Itinerary (PDF)
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for Andes/Inca! |
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Highlights!
Andes & Amazon homestay
Sustainable tourism programs
Learn traditional skills
Exploring a tropical rainforest
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Beautiful & historic Cuzco
Sacred Valley ruins & markets |
