Peru - North
Introduction to the Peru North expedition |
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| Peru sits on the Pacific coast of South America and has three main environments: the vast Amazonian lowlands, the Andes mountains and a narrow strip of coastal plain which runs down the west of the country. Each of these environments has its own distinct climate and during a four-week expedition it is common to experience a range of different conditions - from the heat and humidity of the jungle to freezing temperatures in the Andes. |
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Peru has the largest indigenous population of all the South American countries and boasts a fascinating cultural heritage. The Quechua and Aymara are the largest tribes and in more remote areas team members will have the chance to see how some communities have maintained their traditional customs and language. Peruvians tend to be very warm-hearted and take pride in welcoming visitors into their communities so teams are encouraged to make the most of the opportunities for cultural exchange. Learning some Spanish will really help with this and more ambitious teams may even want to try their hand at learning Quechua!
While Peru is well know for the famous Inca site of Machu Picchu, teams going to Northern Peru will have the opportunity to get well off the tourist trail and to explore some lesser known, but equally impressive sites. With its outstanding trekking opportunities, Northern Peru is a great destination for teams looking for an adventurous and physically demanding expedition.
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Some possible Northern Peru expedition objectives are given below, please note these may alter between now and your expedition. The Expedition Program Manager for Northern Peru will design an expedition itinerary for you to best match the abilities and aspirations of your team.
Acclimatization
There are numerous treks in the Cordillera Blanca region around Huaraz, including day walks to local ruins and hot springs or overnight trips along spectacular valleys to glacier fed lakes. Alternatively, around Chachapoyas teams may trek to the fascinating pre-Inca fortress of Kuelap.
Main Trekking phase
Cordillera Blanca Huaraz provides the base for treks in the Cordillera Blanca. Here the Andean views are at their best with snow capped mountains towering over crystal blue lakes. Trekking trails from 4-10 days include passes of up to 5,000m, requiring a high level of fitness. Highlands around Chachapoyas Chachapoyas in the northern Andes is a good base for relatively unknown treks at a lower altitude, which pass through little-visited villages and pre-Inca sites. Dry Tropical Forest in the area around Tumbes Starting from Rica Playa in the far north of Peru, teams can trek through the forest, passing waterfalls along the way and camping near to sandy river beaches.
Jungle exploration
The team can make a short trip into the Pacaya Samiria Reserve, reached from the small village of Lagunas, in the Amazon jungle. With local guides they will discover the diverse flora and fauna, on foot and by canoe.
Projects
During this phase, teams have the opportunity to learn about the Peruvian way of life, experiencing local culture and customs at first hand. Projects could include helping villages to construct or renovate community buildings and facilities, painting murals, establishing recycling systems or planting trees.
Rest and Relaxation
During an expedition to Northern Peru there are a variety of opportunities en route for rest and relaxation. Peru contains many fascinating cultural sites including ancient ruins and colorful markets. Adventurous teams could choose to take part in a White-water rafting trip and those visiting the far north of Peru could spend some time relaxing on one of the area’s beautiful beaches.
It was the best 4 weeks of my life. I loved every moment of it.
Sarah Lloyd - Challenger, Peru
My expedition was extremely valuable for me as it has made me independent and was very good preparation for my gap year.
Lindsay Cleland - Challenger, Peru
The thought of the students having to raise the expedition fee, plan and budget their food allowance and make all the necessary arrangements for lodging, transportation and activities while oversees seemed overwhelming, but Jackie and the rest of the team eagerly took on the task. On return, it was clear that they had developed long lasting friendships, a new appreciation for life, shared many experiences and will have lifetime memories they will never forget.
Maureen Murray - Mother
Find out more
T: 877 – 333 – 1060
E: infoUSA@wcexpeditions.com
