Monday, February 18, 2013

Enjoying The Best South America Tours

By Earlene Silversmith


South America tours to Peru take you to a country of breath-taking scenery on an epic scale. From the magnificent misty foothills and the cloud forest, to the snow-clad Andean peaks, there is so much to see. One of the most popular ways to take in the gorgeous sights is by trekking in Peru.

There are countless famous cultural and natural wonders to view in this remarkable country. Lake Titicaca is here, as are the Nazca lines are here and the 'Shining Path'. Many backpackers will desire to journey into the 'Sacred Valley' and possibly walk the Salcantay trail as far as feted Machu Picchu. More daring hikers can undertake lesser known rambles to Cusco, or along one of the myriad paths through the Andes of Peru. The Inca Trail is the most renowned trek, and there is a strict limit of 500 hikers daily, who must use licensed guides. This is due to the effect that all the walking boots have made to the stone pathway and its environment. Journeys along this trail are often fully reserved for half a year in advance.

Every part of this pleasant, hospitable land has something distinct to present to the intrepid visitor. The Amazon tropical rain forest trails near Puerto Maldonado give some eye-catching treks, investigating temples entangled in jungle creepers. Other foremost regions for adventure tourism include the second highest range of mountains on earth, the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Huayhuash - their equally outstanding sister range. Overland adventures might commence from amid the ancient shrines around Sipan, Moche, and Sican. Another desirable destination is the Manu Biosphere Reserve.

Trekkers are treated to the diversity of experiences offered by Peru. The cloud forest of Chachapoya is famed for colorful bird-life. Other zones feature untamed rivers, soaring condors, prowling pumas, and wild sea-lions at the coast. Discover forgotten cities and lost temples on some of the more out-of-the-way treks. The stronghold of Kuelap is one remarkable example of the Chachapoyas archaeology which pre-dates the Incan culture.

Walkers need good boots and a day-pack containing water bottles, rainproof jackets and extra warm clothing. Heat exhaustion and hypothermia are hazards to be aware of. Altitude sickness can be a problem in the heights of the Andes, and gradual acclimatization is recommended. Pregnant women and children under three should not trek high in the mountains.

Plane travel into Peru is pricy from all areas of the world. Well-informed tour guides are not inexpensive either, but do provide value for money in particular outdoor pursuits like river running, mountaineering, ornithology, and mountain biking. Bargaining is customary, always haggle for the 'mejer precio' (best price)when dealing with restaurants, hotels, cab drivers, porters or muleteers.

Yellow fever, cholera and Dengue fever are fairly common diseases in South America. Check with a doctor about immunizations before travelling. Malaria and rabies (transmitted by dog or vampire bat bites) are also risks to consider.

Instances of armed muggings and thefts from those trekking in Peru have been known, but most South America tours will go without incidents, if planned ahead. This is chiefly around in the ranges of the Candilleras Huayhuash and Blanca, as well as in the Huaraz area. In general though, street crimes are rarely violent.




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