Where do I begin? Every part of this wonderful adventure offered through Active South America was fantastic. I have dreamed of visiting the various sites in Peru since I was a teenager (30+ years ago); this trip surpassed all my expectations.

Arturo was a phenomenal guide: I feel that I speak for everyone in our group when I say that we truly appreciated his historical knowledge, technical prowess, infinite patience, positive attitude, and most of all...his choices in restaurants! Arturo is a definite asset to his profession.

We were fortunate to have beautiful weather the entire trip. Machu Picchu was even more magical and magnificent than I had ever dreamed. Julio, our little group's Classic Inka Trail guide was a joy to be with. His infectious laugh and in-depth knowledge of the trail and surrounding areas made our trek interesting and fun. The side trip to Paulo's traditional Inka-style home was a pleasant surprise appreciated by us all. It helped bring history to life, and his hospitality warmed my heart.

I must mention the outstanding service provided by the Porters and Cook: they made this trek so enjoyably relaxing. There was always much merriment in the camp and on the trail. Gourmet meals and snacks (minus the parakeet seed trail bar, that is ;-) were a definite delight on the trail.

Having tea and hot wash water delivered to your tent was another luxurious treat that they spoiled us with. How will I ever be able to camp on my own again?? For me, the trek ended all too soon on Day 4 at the Sun Gate at dawn. I remember thinking...how can they possibly top this experience? I was about to find out.

The Amazon Jungle portion of the trip gave us accommodations that were extravagantly relaxing. Once again, we had beautiful weather, which helped bring about our numerous monkey, parrot, caimen, and insect/spider/scorpion sightings; including several javalina and capybaras.

The greatest thing of all, and the least expected, was our jaguar sighting and subsequent photo opportunity! The big cat sat on the riverbank long enough for us to get numerous close-up shots of it. Arturo was as happy and excited to see it as we were. What a fantastic experience to see this beautiful cat in its natural surroundings!!

On the final leg of our journey we traveled to Puno and Lake Titicaca where we once again enjoyed beautiful, mild weather. The boat trip and kayak outing to the various islands helped emphasize just how large the lake is. After a long Upstate New York winter, it felt great to be out on the water again. I was literally and figuratively on top of the world!

Regarding our family stay: both Jennifer and I were pleasantly surprised that our family accomodations were so luxurious. We had our own beds, in a cozy second floor room with a balcony that had the most spectacular view of the lake. Julian and Lucia's house was warm and welcoming...and provided us a cultural experience that we will never forget.

Another experience that touched my heart and warmed my soul was when Arturo took my "toy bag" on our hike to Pachemama mountain. The two of us had such fun handing out the pencils, paper, and various toys to the little kids. They truly appreciated our little gifts of friendship.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention the food experiences throughout our trip: They were awesome!! We visited a variety of local restaurants and markets. I can't say enough about the amazing variety of dishes that comprise Peruvian cuisine. Fresh fruits, vegetables and meats/fishes. There was something for everyone. Portions were good sized, and always served with a smile. The chicken and Alpaca in Cusco was outstanding...the trout and kingfish in Puno: fantastic...the seafood in Lima was scrumptious. I can't even begin to describe how wonderful their desserts were! If you are a bread-lover, beware: their breads are so delicious and tasty...BUT are usually only served at the morning meal! They had a sweet bread that we tried in a market in Cusco that I could have eaten all day long...it was SO good!!

From the tastly cuisine to the phenomenal scenery, friendly people, and spectacular wildlife sightings...this trip most certainly surpassed all my expectations. My thanks to: Arturo, Julio, Daniel, Frank, Oswaldo, Julian, Lucia, and everyone else who made this the trip of a lifetime! May all your travels be filled with sunshine and gentle breezes!

Colleen Drenckhahn

| January 1970