Heading to Peru!!

Windian · Since 28 Apr 2008 901 Posts Newport, OR NEWPORT OG

Got the airfare, but we haven't committed to any accomodations or other ventures as of yet. My wife and I will be landing in Lima in the middle of June and flying back home in the middle of July so we have a full month to plan for at this time. Both of us are proficient in Spanish, but certainly not fluent.

Most likely will be doing the Cuzco/Sacred Valley/Machu Picchu side trip as soon as we get there for a week or so. Then coming back to Lima to jump on a bus or plane, not sure which, to head north to Huanchaco, Chicama, and Pacasmayo. I am planning to mostly be surfing the left points, but I will for sure be bringing kites and a directional quad for the potential windy days.

Looking for any and all advice on kite sizes, accomodations, travel, safety, dining, side ventures, personal contacts and anything else that forum chimers might want to offer.

I bought Frommers travel guide to Peru and a good map. Plus have been spending time searching the internet and Google Earth for info and education. What else do you advise?

Spike · Since 13 May 2007 1414 Posts Alameda Spelling Expert

I went to Peru two years ago, the coast is a nice place (warm and windy as hell), I was not much of a fan of the inland areas, mostly because we were there during the rainy season. Anyhow, I have some useful advice:

We spent the first night in the top-rated hostel in Miraflores (Lima), called the "Miraflores House" simply because we wanted to make sure we got off on the right foot. The owner there is amazing, this guy (after learning we hadn't made a plan yet) booked stuff all over Peru for us through all these different travel agents he knew all over Peru. He also booked all our travel through a tour company called "Cruz Del Sur" (see pic). This is as far as I know the only legitimate bus service in Peru that isn't sketchy. They operate much like airlines at an airport. You can board and deboard in fenced-off areas so your stuff doesn't get stolen, and the drivers switch off so you don't have to worry about them falling asleep at the wheel (happens a lot in Peru supposedly).

I would highly recommend staying at this hostel, it wasn't rated number 1 for no reason, and this guy Francis who runs the place definitely left a very good impression.

Some last advice, and probably the best if you follow it, don't drink roadside "Chicha" (see pic) you will severely regret it the following two weeks!

Onad · Tue Feb 08, 11 9:09 pm

I haven't been to Peru, but met Jose and Katie when they were here for the summer a few years ago and really liked them. He kites and para-glides.

Check out his web site: http://perufly.com/ (slow to load)

jose@perufly.com

Joshiebaby · Since 14 Oct 2007 569 Posts Vancouver, WA Addicted

I taught English in Lima onesummer and the word about your stuff getting jacked off of a bus is seriously legit. Not so much the local buses but the long distance ones. Keep an eye on your bags-- even in the bus. People get up in the middle of the night and will pilfer any bags that you put up and overhead.

Great people in general but extreme poverty brings about the worst in folks. Never kited there but had a blast hitting Machu Picchu and lake Titicaca is pretty amazing too. Enjoy!

Jackal · Since 17 Dec 2005 147 Posts WS Stoked

A buddy of mine (Justin) runs trips throughout Peru including Machu Picchu. His company was recognized by National Geographic as one of the best travel companies on the planet. He uses local guides that speak English- no kiting trips, but you can do that on your own. I think they have a range of prices- from budget to lavish. They're located in Seattle- give em a call to see what they can do for you if it sounds right.

http://www.southernexplorations.com/

blancoh2o · Since 15 Mar 2005 1154 Posts Oregon Phishy

Check this place out. www.samanachakra.com

It is a great place for both you and your wife.

fredf · Since 10 Jan 2009 80 Posts Eugene. Or

While you are in Miraflores be sure to stroll over to the cliffs and watch the parapenters launching off the edge as soon as the fog burns off.

Gman · Since 11 Feb 2006 4911 Posts Portland Unstrapped