Stories

“Visiting Peru was an unforgettable experience, everything went as planned and even better than I thought it was going to be because fun and adventure are everywhere. We met in Peru from different countries and it was great not having to worry about what to do or research what is best, because of the personalized attention offered by our tour guides. There were multiple options every day. We had many adventures with nonstop breathtaking natural and man-made landscapes each provided with a detailed explanation and its history, which made us feel part of the culture. After we arrived at Machu Pichu, we were impressed by the structures and the way that they were built without any of the current technology. Our guides suggested that seeing Machu Pichu from above is one of the most wonderful experiences because you can appreciate the Inca’s greatness. The best view is from Wayna Pichu but because the corridor is narrow and full of steps, only 400 people are allowed on a daily basis in two groups, 200 at 8:00 am and 200 at 10:00 am but we needed to wake up very early to be on the line and be part of those people. Our adventure started at 3:00 am and we were able to make the 400 people. The Wayna Pichu trail is full of nature and surprises, some areas were so narrow that we needed to take off our backpacks because only our bodies sideways would fit. It is hard to think how the Inca was brought there carried by natives on their shoulders, they said he used to come to meditate. In every turn we made, we were able to see Machu Pichu in a different way and see how its shape of a “condor” (native eagle) was forming, so perfect, so impressive. Once you hit the top, it is just greatness around you: nature, mountains, peace. You feel the world at your feet. Just a bit piece of advice, follow your tour guide's suggestions and do not get away from the trail. We felt so empowered that on the way back decided to take a different trail (la gran caverna) and separate from the group without the tour guide. that led us to a 4 hours trail (not the 30 mins walk that was advertised on one of the signs) and really the new spot was not worthy of those extra hours. I can’t wait to go back, this time with my husband, and use your services again. ”

— Carla J., native of Ecuador living in Miami, FL

“My friends and I hiked to Choquequirao in 3 days, staying 2 nights in a remote camping area (no showers/no toilets) overlooking the valley. We hiked most of the day, so if you want to hike only 5-6 hours a day – then you need more time. This hike is not for the faint-hearted or the occasional hiker who isn’t active most of the year. We went in August, it was hot during the day and cool at night. The mosquitos on the trail are a special dragon breed – they bite until blood flows. I recommend keeping your body covered (although being so hot, it wasn’t easy), I wore long hiking pants tucked into my hiking boots and moisture-wicking long sleeve shirts, used mosquito repellent – and still got some bites. A hat and sunscreen are a must. At the beginning of the hike, a lot of it is downhill which is a steep decline – so make sure your hiking boots are fitted well or you’ll have sore toes or lose a toenail. With all this said – it is more than an amazing hike. There is a reason the Spanish never found this place! In the days it took us, we barely passed other hikers. The scenery was spectacular and the air was fresh and clean. I have never seen stars in the night sky like there were here! Once we got to the actual site – something out of an archaeological fantasy movie – it was only our group there, so 4 whole people.  The site is very well taken care of and with so few tourists in pristine condition. It was worth every sweaty step. Hurry and experience this before they build a cable car!”

— Tracy M. Barcelona, Spain

“Places: I love visiting new cultures and countries, but sometimes life gets in the way and the time necessary to research and plan just isn’t available. You created the ideal vacation, layering the vacation with historical background, cultural monuments, archeological sites, and local flavor, and took us to places I never would have experienced left to my own devices. We even got to go out dancing one evening – always a bonus for me!
Food: One of the highlights of our Peruvian adventure was the cuisine! The tour took us to wonderful local restaurants. My favorite one was a restaurant above the city of Cusco with a 180-degree view of the city. AMAZING! I also got to try Cuy (guinea pig) – the local traditional food – which is, well, a little bit boney!
Rituals: These take traveling up a notch! Being able to participate, personally, in a ceremony and meet the locals made my trip to Peru incredibly memorable.
Guides: Taking guided tours in a country where you don’t speak the native language – you never know what you’re going to get. Our guides were AWESOME!!! Their English was FABULOUS! And, on top of that, they knew so much about the sites we visited. I loved getting to know their history and they totally sated my cultural curiosity. What a great addition to an already fabulous vacation experience!”

— Andrea K. Seattle, WA

“As the Inti Raymi approaches once again it’s hard to believe that it’s been close to 5 years since I visited Cusco, Peru. It seems like it was yesterday... During our visit to Machu Picchu, I don’t believe I would have had such a unique experience as I did if it weren’t for you! To be able to experience the day-to-day Peruvian reality, share with the people, visit the local markets with all the amazing Peruvian textiles, taste the Andean delicacies, and sightsee the region and its history was truly fascinating. The warmth of the people can only match the geography of the territory and its rich culture. The positive vibes of such a majestic place travel through the air. The only way to experience all this firsthand that I could think of is through your tours, you’ll be in good hands!”

— Javier H. Nashville, TN

“Having a guide for our trip to Peru made such a difference. I can’t imagine not having knowledgeable guides available to us while visiting such historic and beautiful sites. I was a little nervous about visiting a country where I didn’t speak the language, but the guides made me feel comfortable and helped me to interact with shopkeepers while informing me about the history and culture of everything around me. It was one of the highlights of my life. Thank you so much for allowing me to experience such a rich culture.”

— Marcy H. Houston, TX

“The Inca Trail was grueling, but I’m proud to say I finished it! We met the most interesting people along the way and the scenery is amazing! And of course, our reward for completing the trail was seeing Machu Picchu, truly one of the 7 Wonders of the World!”

— “KJ” L. Dallas, TX

“Thank you so much for arranging the most memorable tours of Cusco and Machu Picchu and the surrounding areas. It was so exciting to learn about the history and culture of such an ancient society. Your guides were so informative and knowledgeable that they really enhanced our experience. The transportation was very well organized and timely from the vans to the train ride into Machu Picchu. The accommodations and restaurants you chose were excellent. Thank you so much for making our vacation to Peru one of the most favorite of all our experiences that we will never forget!”

— Harry and Melissa H. Hallandale Beach, FL

“Our trip to Peru was fabulous! We loved the Spanish colonial architecture in Cusco, and were blown away by Machu Picchu! The way the Incans were able to build without using mortar, and having virtually no space between blocks was incredible. Their walls and dwellings have lasted several centuries with little or no signs of decay. Our guide was of Incan descent, spoke several languages, and was one of the best we’ve ever had in all our travels! She was very personable and accommodating, and had a wealth of interesting information. We would highly recommend Native Tours for your trip to Peru!”

— Ted and Jane S. Peoria, IL

“We had planned way in advance to visit Peru. All we could think of was that this was a trip of a lifetime, but we had just delivered our first child. We were unsure about going to another country with a baby of only 3 months old. After looking at the details of the trip there were no more questions, we were ready to check Macchu Pichu off our bucket list. Everything was planned out to a “T”. Who our drivers would be, which bus we would take and when we had to get on the train. There was time enough in each town to get a feeling for the people and beauty that Peru has to offer. I felt safe the entire time. We even took a side trip with our tour guide to meet his family, it was a very sweet exchange because his sister had a baby the same age as ours. The weather was amazing. When we ventured up to Macchu Pichu at dawn, the sunrise was the most phenomenal and breathtaking sight I’ve ever witnessed. I just kept saying over and over, this is amazing, this is amazing. We took so many pictures, but my memories have more detail of the awesomeness of this place. Pictures do not do my words justice. Remember to bring your passport when you visit Macchu Pichu, because they will give you a special stamp, we missed this opportunity and have regretted it ever since. I would not hesitate to visit again because I know how organized the trip will be and how safe we would be with Karen and Willy’s expert advice and love for all things Peru.”

— Lizzie and Santosh K. Bentonville, AR

“When you're ready for one of those trips of a lifetime, Native Tours, is a very good place to start. We were struck by Karen Vegara’s close relationships with not only the Parks, Trails, and local guides - who make-or-break a venture like this. If you're into hiking, they’ve been there and done it, many times. Cusco and Machu Picchu were a long way outside of our comfort zone, and they turned out to be the highlight of our South American travels. Karen’s knowledge and integrity made our Peruvian travels easy and enjoyable!”

— Tom & Pat L. Friendswood, TX

“In Good Hands… International travel can be intimidating, especially when you don’t speak the native lingo or know the local customs. But those were the areas where my guide on a 10-day trip to Peru excelled. My group of Americans was presented with so many options as far as day and overnight trips in and around our base at Cusco. And our guide, with her fluent English and seemingly endless knowledge of local and national culture both past and present, was delightful. With our limited Spanish, somebody suggested we call her El Jefe, which in American movies some Mexican soldiers or bandits always seemed to be calling their leader. A quick language lesson later, she became La Jefa. From Cusco in the deep valley of the Urubamba River to the ancient city ruins atop Machu Picchu, the sights were breathtaking. But digital media can now bring those views into your living room. What made our trip special was a guide who not only knew her area’s people and places but also understood her aliens. Toward the end of our stay, we just asked her to pick where we would go, how we would get there, and what we would eat. You gotta know the territory. And that includes knowing your customers.”

— Bob L. Peoria, IL