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CALL 877.784.5400 TOLL FREE
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CONTACT US
CALL 877.784.5400 TOLL FREE
(outside USA call +1.206.784.8111)
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“Our Luxury Peru trip was wonderful. We had a wonderful guide, Juan who relayed the history and culture to us, was energetic and really made the trip go smoothly. Peru is a fabulous country – we loved our lodging, the food, the sights, everything. This was a trip for my mom who is 83 and always wanted to see Machu Picchu. The guides were so attentive to her and assisted her in seeing every sight we visited. She says it was the best trip of her life. I can’t wait to go back to Peru.”
-Sue Strater (Portland, Oregon)
Luxury Peru trip
“I can't recommend Southern Explorations highly enough, from the great hotels to a totally awesome guide, Jose, who took care of us from the minute we stepped off the plane in Cusco to the time we flew back to Lima. Jose's knowledge of Cusco, the Incas, the sites we visited, history, plants and wildlife was boundless. Also, if you prefer to get off the beaten path and don't like big groups, Southern Explorations is without any shadow of a doubt the way to go ... we were easily the smallest group on the Inca Trail and thankful for it! The timing on the trail was also excellent, we avoided other groups to such an extent that we felt like we had the trail to ourselves 90% of the time. We were taken care of from start to finish and I'd certainly recommend and use Southern Explorations again for future adventures of this kind.”
- Julia Relf (California)
Classic Inca Trail
“Thank you, Southern Explorations, for a wonderful trip. We'd been looking forward to seeing Machu Picchu for years, yet despite all of that anticipation what you delivered somehow still exceeded our expectations. Thank you not only to Chenna – the best guide on the planet – but also to all the people who worked quietly in the background to make this such a memorable trip for us.”
- Gordon McConnell (San Jose)
Luxury Peru trip
“This was our first trip to South America and despite initial anxieties of going to a developing nation, we felt totally secure and confident in our guides, drivers, and transfer agents. Southern Explorations advice about water, food, insects, and altitude was helpful, but definitely the added information provided by our local travel clinic really reinforced the importance of the pre-cautionary measures. Chema’s calm and patient demeanor was very helpful for us as we adjusted to the altitude in the first part of the trip.
Chema didn’t overwhelm us with information; rather he had a more Socratic style of conveying his broad knowledge of Peru. Percy’s enthusiasm was engaging and contagious, and he provided us with entertaining anecdotes from his past experiences with archeological expeditions.”
- Kevin Peterson
Traveled to Peru
“Our trip was amazing and we would most definitely travel with Southern Explorations again. In fact we can't imagine coming to South America and not using Southern Explorations. Everything was handled flawlessly and our trip was so much better because we did not have to worry about the details. There are many parts to a trip and you guys take care of each of them. Thank you so much for all your efforts and the question is not whether we would travel with you again but rather when and where? Thanks for a great trip.”
- Jason McConkey (Tennessee)
Traveled to Peru
“Choosing a company for an international trip can be daunting, but Southern Explorations provided a flawless, first-rate trip that I will remember my whole life. Jose, our tour guide, helped us find incredible restaurants we would never have even seen on our own, pointed out amazing historical information everywhere we visited, and acted as an "ambassador" so that we found ourselves treated as welcomed guests everywhere we went. I would recommend Southern Explorations without hesitation for an experience unmatched by any other tour company. They provided the perfect balance between structure (planned excursions) and flexibility (free time to explore). From the moment we began planning the trip until we arrived back home, the staff at Southern Explorations made the entire trip effortless and worry-free -- and most of all...fun!!!”
- Peter Zakhary(California)
Luxury Peru
“Thank you for your services in organizing our trip to Peru/Machu Picchu. The trip went smoothly and we are very satisfied with all aspects of the trip. I appreciate the professional staff we worked with in Peru to ensure our good health and safety. In Lima, Giovanna was a wonderful guide and accommodated our special requests without question. We sincerely thank her for giving us a look at local Peruvian life, not just the tourist view. She is a great asset to your organization. In Cusco, Augusto our guide and Claudio our driver were very professional and I am most appreciative of their concern for our good health and safety. Augusto is very knowledgeable, and we gained a great deal of history and information from him. Claudio was kind enough to allow us our special requests.”
- Nicole Peterson (California)
Luxury Peru
“John and I have travelled extensively, to include a one year trip around the world. This is the first time we have travelled “guided” and the experience was so spectacular that we are daring to call it perfect. Giovana in Lima was attentive and charming; she was delightful to be with and a very good omen for what was to come. We cannot say enough about Wilber, our driver in Cusco/Sacred Valley/Machu Picchu, but the entire experience belongs to Jose. Our trip would not have been what it was without him. When I owned my own company, at least once a day I had to say to clients, “Don’t worry. I’ll take care of it.” When there was the threat of a general strike and our plans would possibly have to change, the first thing he said was “Don’t worry. I’ll take care of it.” I fell to my knees and worshipped at the hem of his garment. He just exudes calm and confidence. His level of knowledge is astounding but he is more than a guide; he is a raconteur and a warm and caring individual. We thoroughly enjoyed every moment with him. . . Would we do this again? ABSOLUTELY! Please keep us informed of any new private guided itineraries you develop, although you have a tough act to follow. Perfection is hard to top.”
- Marla & John (Toronto)
Luxury Peru
“We LOVED this trip. We went to Panama last year and SE exceeded all of our expectations. You did it again this year with our trip to Peru. We loved every minute of it. Every single detail was thought out and executed in a professional manner. We would plan another trip with SE in a second. Thank you for all your hard work. We feel grateful to have found such a wonderful and reliable travel company!”
- Elissa Bowes (New Jersey)
Amazon & Inca Trail
“Justin-
Outstanding trip!! Your organization and execution for a group this size was truly extraordinary!! Will certainly reach out to you on any future trips.
Sincerely,”
- Jeff & Julie Schoenfeld
Luxury Peru
“This trek is what people read about in books -- porters bringing tea to your tent to wake up. 8 staff members - cook, assistant cook, horsemen and general helpers. The Inca alternative trail is THE only way to go, the Machu Picchu or Inca Trail is littered with trash and like a 2 lane highway with a lot of tourists. We never saw any other tourists on the Inca alternative trail! We came to ruins that no one else was at and we could explore all by ourselves. Every meal was a 4 course meal that you easily would pay $25 per meal in US dollars for in a restaurant. On our last day in the mountains - the cook made us a cake!!! Yes a cake with frosting and all. We had a port a potty at every camp site - which was very nice as well. The porters bring you hot water 3 times a day to clean and wash up. At every destination we had someone waiting for us and guiding us to our next spot. We never felt unsafe at any time on this trip.
If anyone has any questions please feel free to email me. This was a trip of a life time for the four of us and I would recommend Southern Explorations without any reservation to family & friends. It exceeded by a long shot our expectations!”
- Peter Bouchard (Founder of Pioneer Telephone)
Alternative Inca Trail
“I am a seasoned traveler; my goal is to see as much of the world as I can. Of all the places I have traveled and visited Peru exceeded my expectations by far. I never would have guessed! Your company was THE best group I have ever dealt with. I could not have asked for more. I was recommending Southern Explorations to people we met during our trip, they just don't know what they missed! The Hiram Bingham train was quite a pleasant surprise! The guides made all the difference, they really knew how to take care of us and we enjoyed hanging around with them. You did a superb job, can't wait for our next trip with you in February! Can you top this one?? I truly can't say enough! We'll be in touch soon!”
- Susan Webster Campbell (Chesapeake City, MD)
Luxury Peru
“Excellent value for money. Have been singing your praises… Yes, I will travel with you again. The small Peru book was invaluable. I must have checked some detail in it almost daily.”
- Anne Moore
Peru Highlights tour
“The guides were exceptional. They had a strong understanding of the history and local areas. In one particular case, Augusto (even though he didn't have to) climbed Huayna Picchu with me because I was doing it on my own. This went way above his normal duties. All excursions were well planned and interesting to visit. The Inca ruins for obvious reasons were the highlight of the trip. Definitely an excellent trip that way exceeded my expectations. The other two members of my group also felt the same. It might seem like I am just filling in excellent to everything above just to complete the form quickly - but really everything was excellent.”
- Paul Fahey (Massachusetts)
Peru Highlights trip
“Great trip -- we had a wonderful time. Thank you for the help in organizing a wonderful trip.”
- Dennis and family
travelling in the Galapagos and Peru
“I want to tell you how impressed I was with Jose. I have traveled all over the world with private guides but have never felt so comfortable, welcomed, and taken such good care of as I was by Jose. He made the trip!!! He has a very welcoming personality and is incredibly knowledgeable. He never preached to us as some guides do. He always made the history very interesting!
Anyway thanks so much! This was one of my favorite trips!!! I will be back!”
- Kathy Harvey (Maryland)
Luxury Peru
“Our Lima guide was a scholar on all of the cultures: pre-Inca, Inca and post-Inca including the Spanish impact on culture, archeology and religion. He communicated his knowledge well and was patient and accommodating with our questions. He is a great resource/guide for Southern Explorations. Also, I can't say enough about Jose. In addition to providing excellent presentations of the Inca culture and archeology including the Spanish impact, he created an environment that allowed us to have personal experiences with the people of Cusco, the Scared Valley of the Incas, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu. All along our travels, Peruvians knew Jose and respected him. His compassion for his fellow Peruvians was obvious and refreshing. He became a friend. We invited him and his family to visit us in San Antonio. His background as an adventurer coupled with his compassion, and capabilities make him an ideal guide. He is a valuable asset to Southern Explorations.“ - Fred Delaney
“The trip far exceeded our expectations: fantastic guide, fantastic food on the trail, fantastic itinerary = fantasy trip -- one of the best travel experiences of a well-traveled lifetime. Thanks!”
- Jim Warfield
Peru Day Hiker
“Even our high expectations for a remarkable trip were exceeded by the many incredible experiences on this journey. Special thanks to our guide Patricia, who has an encyclopedic knowledge of history, language, customs, geology, wildlife--- anything we asked her about, she had the information. Her descriptions at the archeological sites were so interesting and informative. However, it was not just her expertise that endeared her to us, but also her genuine concern for us and open-hearted friendship. We also felt completely safe in the hands of our wonderful driver, Mauro. Our guides in Lima (Carina, when we arrived, and Giovana, when we left) also took such good care of us, answered our questions, and made us feel at home.”
- Cathy Ordiway (Florida)
Luxury Peru
“Agusto was an amazing guide and companion on our Inca Trail trek. He was very passionate about the Inca history and traditions and very knowledgeable. Carrie and I learned a lot and this made the 4 day hike and site visit to Machu Picchu all the more meaningful. Augusto set us on a very good pace along the trail - we were challenged but never felt pushed beyond our capabilities. He was also very good at helping us set expectations about each day’s trek, what we would see, what challenges the trail would provide and how each trek tied into the Inca’s ways. We truly enjoyed Agusto’s company. He also was very kind in helping me down some of the more steep areas of the trail. I felt that our service was very personalized and that Agusto genuinely cared about our experience and making it special. I do feel that our journey was very special and will be cherished. We arrived at Machu Picchu very tired but proud of our accomplishments over the 4 day hike. We were also in awe of Machu Picchu and again, Agusto gave us a very thorough tour that I know most of the day visitors never get - nor then can they appreciate the history and beauty of Machu Picchu as we can - thanks to Agusto.
I also want to comment on our crew of porters and our cook. Our team exceeded our expectations. Any anticipated need was addressed and any request was executed quickly and done very well. The meals were outstanding every single day. We were amazed at what could be done outside of a conventional kitchen. Kudos to all!
All SE drivers and local representatives were very friendly, well organized and informative. They made it very easy for us to get where we needed to go.”
- Lisa Rhind (Chicago)
Classic Inca Trail
“This was also probably the most relaxing vacation I've ever had. As a business owner I am used to being responsible and on top of everything. The guides made it possible for me to completely relax and just show up with my hiking boots, sunblock and hat for a day of adventure. Truth be told, I never even referred to the itinerary...I trusted the guides completely to make sure that everything went well and would be fun. And, yes...please feel free to use this testimonial on your Web site. I am already raving about you guys to all my friends and looking for other trips to schedule with you.”
- Diane Valenti (California)
Peru Highlights Vacation
“This trip vastly exceeded my (high) expectations. The scenery was extraordinary, the hiking challenging but well-paced, and the service and food were fabulous. Our guides were well-educated, genuinely friendly, and shared their significant knowledge of local history and culture with enthusiasm and pride. Well done, Southern Explorations—I’ll be back.”
- Lorna Corrigan (Washington)
Classic Inca Trail Hiking Tour
“This was my first experience traveling with Southern Explorations and in South America. I had a truly amazing time and thought the tour was just as we planned out and organized. The guides, transfer associates, the drivers, porters and cooks were warm, friendly, caring and well informed. They made my trip easy and enjoyable. The staff was always ready to alter the plan to accommodate us. I chose Southern Explorations based on your web site and took a big risk by not having any references. I was pleasantly surprised and will absolutely be using your services again. I am currently looking into a Galapagos trip next summer. Look forward to traveling with you again.”
- Andrew Romar (New York)
Amazon & Inca Trail Hiking Tour
“We had an amazing time and can't wait for the next trip - thanks again!”
- Lisa Wilder (California)
Custom Peru Tour
“Fina our guide in the jungle understood and conveyed good information on both aquatic and bird wildlife. All three guides were able to convey excellent information on cultural, historical and the political background of the past civilizations as well as the current situations of the Peruvian people. They were very informative. They were all very friendly as well.”
- Henrik Peterson (New York)
Peru Highlights Vacation
“I wanted to tell again how much we all enjoyed our trip. All of our guides were excellent, the transportation was always right on time and the accommodations were wonderful. We were all very impressed with your services. I would highly recommend you to anyone. Thanks again for a wonderful trip of a lifetime!”
- Linda, Mike, Tory and Leah Palendat (Florida)
Peru Highlights Vacation
“I have already recommended Southern Explorations to my family and friends. I could not have asked for a better vacation. It was over and above my expectations. Thank you for making this a very unforgettable experience and pairing us up with some wonderful people that we enjoyed traveling with.”
- Lisa Bowman (California)
Amazon and Inca Trail
“The pre-departure information was excellent and the staff made me feel very secure about going on this tour as a single person not knowing anyone else. I felt very confident that I would be met at the airport in Lima since I was coming a few days early and that the tour would be well organized and run smoothly. I was very impressed by the intelligence, education, knowledge and English ability of all of the guides. This made the tour special since I am particularly interested in the history, art and architecture of countries I visit.”
- Judith Auer (Colorado)
Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca Tour
“This was an amazing experience and our guide, Jose, made a significant impact on the quality of our trip. Jose was an exceptional guide who was attentive to all people in the group. He was extremely detail-oriented, knowledgeable, caring, thoughtful and went out of his way to ensure all needs were met. Jose went beyond what we expected.”
- Shelly Zavala (California)
Amazon Inca Trail Tour
“Although we have always done European travel on our own, we would not have attempted a Peru itinerary ourselves, as this trip involved so much traveling/flying within Peru and so many transfers, safety concerns and such a different culture. Having the guides really enabled us to enjoy and understand so much more of the Peruvian history and culture. The highlight of the trip was definitely Machu Picchu.”
- Sue Reed (Missouri)
Amazon & Machu Picchu Package Tour
“This was the most wonderful trip. We all had a fabulous time with the guides, the cooks, the horsemen, and the camp staff helpers. Our guide, Jose, was a fountain of information!! I was continually impressed with his knowledge and ability to make the hikes fun and informative. He is a humorous, walking encyclopedia. Walter was a magician in the camp kitchen. He never ceased to impress us with his talent and presentations. Thank you all for all the arrangements, the time and effort that certainly goes into planning a trip like this. I will remember this with fond memories forever! Thank you, thank you so much.”
- Nancy McCandless (Colorado)
Alternative Inca Trail Tour
“THANK YOU for a phenomenal trip! Krissy and I had an amazing time, both in the Amazon, as well as Cusco, Inca Trail. We could not have asked for a better experience. Everything went smoothly, and was extremely organized. We had a fantastic guide for Cusco and Inca Trail - Fernando Silva. THE BEST. We'd recommend you use him as much as you can!
So THANK YOU, THANK YOU for making it all happen for us! We will definitely recommend you guys to our friends/family and anyone who asks. We're now thinking about Ecuador and Galapagos possibly for next year! Cannot wait.
Cheers!”
- Nicole Cassani (San Francisco, CA)
Inca Trail and Amazon
“My daughter and I had a great experience. Peru is just a beautiful country, the people are wonderful and the food fabulous. The Inka sites, cloud forests and rain forests are just amazing. Southern Explorations had everything well organized; all our accommodations were great and the guides are well informed and caring. I am saving up for the next trip.”
- Richard Cooper (Overland Park, KS)
Amazon & Inca Trail
“Our guide Jose was OUTSTANDING. His knowledge and experience were superb. He did an excellent job of balancing professionalism while knowing when to "chit-chat" and relate to those of us on the tour. He made our trip so enjoyable. Antonio, who was with us in Cusco & Machu Picchu as sort of an intern in training, was also great. He was very attentive and concerned with our safety, enjoyment of the experience, and will make a great guide on his own.”
- Carol Hodges (Fancy Gap, VA)
Peru Highlights Tour
“This was the trip of a lifetime -- an awesome family experience. We came home enriched with much greater insight into the Inca civilization and culture -- and current Peruvian life and politics. We are healthier and wiser as a result of our adventure. What more could one ask for a vacation! The alternate Inca Trail turned out to be much better than the Classic. Accommodations far surpassed our expectations. We were delighted with the portable toilet facility. We especially appreciated the hot water brought to our tents each morning. Our son, who is a U.S. Navy corpsman and has trained with the Marines, described the trek as the hardest (and most satisfying) that he had ever done. (He carried his own backpack and shunned trekking poles most of the way and never availed of the horses.) At the same time, our daughters (aged 18 and 20) and my 65-year old husband found the trek within their abilities. Juan was extraordinarily knowledgeable and organized. He was always punctual and reliable. He had a great sense of humor and related very well to both ourselves and our three young adult children. We loved his musical talents, which he shared each night. One of the highlights was his playing his pipes as we labored our way up Wayana Pichu. Another highlight was Juan's sharing of his real-life childhood experiences of the time he left Cusco to join his relatives in the mountains. We really appreciated your staff's availability and willingness to answer all of our questions. I was particularly grateful for the final pre-departure phone call to wish us well.” - Ruth Anderson
“Our highlights were: the cooking class at Punta Sal!!! Adrien took us on a great tour of the market and then we met our instructor, Chef Adolfo Perret, at the restaurant. We had a delightful time learning to make (and sample) a pisco sour and then a delicious ceviche. But the best part was when we returned and had Adolfo select our meal--wow!!! We had seven courses plus dessert, and more pisco sours!! A great start to our Peru adventure. I would recommend it to everyone just for a meal, even if they weren't interested in the cooking class. The next highlight was our time at Machu Picchu. I am glad we stayed the two days, as we had a wonderful hike to Intipuku. Harry (great guide) correctly guessed we would be more comfortable with that trip than the more strenuous Huayna Picchu that we had contemplated. We then had time in the afternoon to just sit and drink in the view and revisit the site. It was memorable. Harry was another highlight. He became like a part of the group--he helped us get money changed, stamps and a post office, laundry service--we even met his father. When our local restaurant choice was closed for the day, he took us by taxi to a family favorite in the hills above Cusco where we had a very non-touristy meal (including cuy)--Palacio del Inka. Puno was fun. We enjoyed our free time there--a procession went on during the evening and a festival featuring the local technical school was fun to visit the next day. But the trip to Uros island was the most fascinating, and our guide, George, gave an excellent lesson (with the help of the local people) showing us how they lived on a floating island.“ - Cathy Nelson
“If you think you know your way around because you’ve traveled the world, you don’t know traveling until you’ve been with Southern Explorations. They bring not only organization and experience to your trip, but provide you with superb guides along the way that are steeped in the history of the country. Southern Explorations adds to your enjoyment of the country.”
- Michele Hasson
Peru
![We are now spoiled and will expect any other trip we take to measure up to [Southern Explorations'] standards](/img/photoTestimonialPeru28.jpg)
“This was the first organized tour that we have ever taken, but now that we have experienced what a great job Southern Explorations does, it will not be the last. We are now spoiled and will expect any other trip we take to measure up to their standards.”
- Dan & Randy Busch (Kodiak, AK)
Experience Machu Picchu and Galapagos Cruise
“We really enjoyed the trip; I was very impressed with the overall service and how we were taken care of. I will definitely travel down to South America with you again. The hotels were wonderful and the people were amazing. Our river rafting was really fun; we had a great time with Manuel and Walberto. They are good guides, very informative and fun to be around. Your service went beyond my expectations, thank-you so much for a fun and exciting adventure.”
- Alice Wilson (Toronto, Ontario)
Experience Machu Picchu
“We could not have been happier with both of our tour guides. Each seemed perfect for the role they played. Juan, with his passion for Cusco and his Inca heritage, provided a unique perspective of the area and its rich culture. Adrian, on the other hand, was a great fit for the juxtaposition of Lima’s blend of Spanish and Native cultures with recent rise of more western influences. He proved to be the perfect tour guide for Lima as he is well versed in not only the history of the city but is quite the student of both art and architecture as well. A+ for both.
All of the sites included on the trip were very interesting and Juan made sure we were not only well educated about each area but also made sure we all had enough time to explore things on our own. While in Lima, Adrian allowed for a flexible itinerary that had a few “must see” sites of interest but also let us choose a few sites that catered to our specific interest.
We were pleased with both of our local representatives as they were friendly and informative. Of particular importance is how the local representatives were of assistance at the airports which can be confusing when you don’t speak Spanish!
We could not have been happier with the trip! Thanks!”
- Andrew Burkus (Massachusetts)
Experience Machu Picchu
“I cannot say enough about our guide Washington. He was personable and attentive as well as professional and knowledgeable. As a tour manager and tour guide myself for the past 28 years, I can fully appreciate the outstanding job Washington did in sharing his knowledge and passion for his culture and his country with the group. He truly made the trip.”
- Niki Sepsas (Birmingham, Alabama)
Classic Inca Trail
“While our group opted for upgrade accommodations, everything exceeded our expectations. Our travel arrangements went like clockwork; our guides were very knowledgeable and likeable. The drivers and guides promptly handled our bags. Everything was taken care of so that we did not have to worry. We would definitely recommend Southern Explorations to anyone!”
- Bill & Kathleen Hall (Aurora, CO)
Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, and Nazca Lines
“Our Alternative Inca Trail adventure was a great trip. It was the perfect combination of challenging hiking and experiencing the countryside of Peru.”
- Jerry and Angie Richardson (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Alternative Inca Trail
”I wanted to let you know how much Joe and I enjoyed our Machu Picchu adventure. From the minute we arrived in Lima to the minute we left, the capable crew at Southern Explorations took great care of us.
In particular, our guide, Washington, was truly amazing. He was knowledgeable, helpful, and just plain fun to spend time with. But more than that, Washington seemed to generally care about the porters and people we came across on the trail. He was just wonderful!
And another person in need of some kudos was our cook, Walter. Each meal was worthy of a nice restaurant--and this while camping in the middle of the Andes. Every meal was a delight.
All in all, the trip was really fantastic. Thank you for providing us with a trip that we will always treasure!”
- Joe and Katherine Houlehan (Prairie Village, Kansas)
Classic Inca Trail
“Lacy and Jonathan were both excellent! They were so patient with us as we debated which exact tour to take and which dates to travel on. They answered all our questions and really helped us plan an excellent trip. We are so appreciative of their suggestions (hotels, etc.) and emails that helped us prepare for our journey. Your website is also really great and helpful...much more so than many other tour companies that we looked at.”
- Kandice and Mike Brandt (Chula Vista, CA)
Peru Highlights
“The experience with Southern Explorations exceeded my expectations. The trip was well organized and representatives were prompt and informative at every step of the way. The guides were very knowledgeable and keenly interested in sharing their information. The guides have relationships with the local people and invite you to get to know the local folks. It was a terrific experience.”
- John Gardner (Yorba Linda, CA)
Discover Peru
“I suppose the highest compliment I can give you is that the very day I returned on Sunday, I was on your website to see what other trips Southern Explorations offers. It was just a fabulous trip and Southern Explorations made it a seamless process from the moment we landed in Lima. We loved Harry and Claudio. Harry was very knowledgeable, detail-oriented and FUN. All the accommodations were great. Peru is an amazing destination on its own, but Southern Explorations took all the stress out of travel. I just can't say enough great things about the vacation!
Many, many thanks for all your help along the way!”
- Elizabeth Bailey (Georgia)
Amazon and Machu Picchu trip
“Thanks to Jonathan who patiently answered all of our questions…”
- Cynthia Johnson (Texas)
Amazon and Machu Picchu
“This trip far exceeded my expectations. From my arrival in Lima, to the time that I boarded the plane to return to San Antonio, everything was handled in a most efficient and professional manner. The balance between providing an "adventure trip", and making such a trip comfortable, was noteworthy. My commendations to Juan, Angelita, Giovanna, and all of the staff working with Southern Explorations in Peru. Anytime that I travel in South America, I will consider Southern Explorations my partner in making sure that I have the most memorable time possible.”
- Mark Lindow (San Antonio, TX)
Classic Inca Trail
“The whole trip was perfect. After all of the wedding planning and the wedding itself, it was awesome to have this trip where we did so much but never had to really think or stress about planning, travel, communicating with locals, etc. It was exactly the honeymoon we wanted. Thanks so much to everyone at SE who helped to make it happen!”
- John Gaetzi (Denver, Colorado)
Luxury Peru
“I really appreciated the small group after seeing the bus loads of people at some of the stops. The personal attention with our small group may have cost us more but it was worth every penny. We had such a wonderful experience with this whole trip and would go back to Peru again.”
- Diana & Donald Black (Erie, Colorado)
Machu Picchu & Amazon
“Harry was absolutely great. Not only was he very knowledgeable about the sites and history, but he was very open and clear about Peru culture, the people and their beliefs. I felt that he took a sincere interest in what the group had to say. It is clear that he really enjoys his job.
Each hotel was perfect. The rooms were great and staff was friendly and went out of their way to help us. Posadas Amazonas was great as well and added to the experience of the Amazon in its seclusion”
- Jeff Eissinger (Bear, DE)
Amazon & Machu Picchu
“We thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Peru! It was a magnificent country. Harry, our guide in Cusco, The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. We would highly recommend him as the perfect guide! We also enjoyed the Lima City trip at the end of our tour. Oscar was very informative and friendly. Traveling to Puno by the Orient Express was another highlight and made the time on the train fun. No words can explain the beauty of Machu Picchu. Thank you for a wonderful trip to Peru!” - Diane and Jim Sampson
“Juan was a great guide. Very knowledgeable and attentive, but also knew when to give us space so that we could chat amongst ourselves and enjoy the Incan trail and take it in at our own pace. He was by far the best of our guides though we did enjoy hanging out with Giovana as well. She did a great job of welcoming us and making us feel comfortable in a new country on those first days. We also had an awesome team of porters. They did a tremendously good job. I was very impressed, as I think their job is pretty darn tough.
The meals on the trail were crazy! Way better than what I typically eat at home. Our chef amazed us. The last day, they even baked a farewell cake for us. Just unbelievable. I felt really well accommodated as a vegetarian as well. All other meals were great. Pretty good breakfast buffets at all places (Miraflores and Libertador were perhaps best). Food across Peru is really, really good.
I would be happy to give a testimonial at any time. I was hesitant about signing up for a trip with a "tour company" at first but found our experience to be authentic and relaxed, as well as extremely well organized. I can't imagine a better experience. I will not hesitate to take a trip again with the company, and will use Southern Explorations whenever traveling to an area they cover. I loved Peru, the culture, the food and the people. It's a special place that everyone must visit and enjoy at some point in their lives.”
- Angie Weber (Seattle, WA)
Classic Inca Trail
“We had a fantastic trip. Going into the trip I did not know what to fully expect, however the trip exceeded any thoughts or expectations I had. I would travel with Southern Explorations anytime. The accommodations, food, and guides were unbelievable. Thank you for a great experience.”
- Sabrena Sinanan (Delaware)
Amazon and Machu Picchu
“We were very pleasantly surprised by the level of guides and accommodation on our trip. We have already recommended Southern Explorations to our friends. Everything, from the first contact via email to the guides and tour conclusion, was a delight for us. WELL DONE & Thanks.”
- Steve Whelan (New South Wales, Australia)
Experience Machu Picchu Tour
"Justin, Lacy, Eric, Jonathan and staff in Cusco and Lima offices:
Thank you for orchestrating an absolutely magical trip. We've been lucky enough to travel the globe and attend landmark events, but this was something very special. Our friend Harry was the perfect guide, melding together the past, present and future of Peru, with the passion of an archeologist, the national pride of a patriot and a sense of humor that transcends all cultures. And our dear Claudio, whose focus on the oft times scary roads allowed us to comfortably see some wonderful sights...without throwing up! These gentlemen were the finest ambassadors your company, or Peru, could have. As was Oscar in Lima...he did an incredible impromptu architectural tour for us! We are recommending your company and this adventure to everyone!
Our warmest regards to all!"
- Wendy and Ken Kurek (West Hollywood, CA)
Luxury Peru
"Great guides. Marilyn and I found them very organized and informative. They were very attentive to our comfort and level of interest. We enjoyed their company. They made recommendations for evening activities and helped us make arrangements when necessary." - Stan and Marilyn Teitelbaum
"Southern Explorations made sure that our trip was well-planned and centered around our interests. We were able to do everything that we wanted to do during our short stay in Peru. Our guides were friendly and very knowledgeable and we could not have had the same experience without them. We’ll fondly remember our time in Peru because of Southern Explorations."
- Julie Hertzberg
Experience Machu Picchu
"Very lucky to have Harry as the guide. He is extremely enthusiastic, resourceful and keen on his job. Good Peruvian ambassador. Would recommend Southern Explorations and Harry Cavezo as guide to any of my friends without hestitation." - Loh Lee Hua
"Please extend our thanks to the entire Southern Explorations staff. We had a wonderful visit in Peru, and much of the success is attributed to Southern Explorations. Each of the local guides was a pleasure to meet. We especially enjoyed Patricia’s company for our week in Cusco and the Inca Trail. She is a special person and we arrive home feeling like she is a good friend.
We would again travel with SE without hesitation. Before this trip, we had never been on a tour-style trip, as we are very independent travelers. But you have opened our eyes to a different style of travel and we are grateful for that."
- Peter and Karen Radosta
"This was our second trip with Southern Explorations. Again, every element was perfect. Our guides were knowledgeable and attentive. The accomadations were superb.
The itinerary was varied and fascinating. You think of every detail.
We loved learning about the culture and history of different parts of Peru. We also had a chance to challenge ourselves by hiking to the top of Huayna Picchu and slogging through the mud in the Amazon. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to visit the village of Huilloc and see their beautiful textiles. We were thrilled to give them the books that we had collected for their school.
Again, thank you for another amazing trip."
- Chris Howard
"Southern Explorations was very organized and planned an excellent and memorable trip for my family. Thanks for everything. We have already recommended you to our friends!" - Jodi Sandler, Experience Machu Picchu
"It was GREAT traveling to Peru with Southern Explorations. All the arrangements were done very well, and tour guides have a tremendous knowledge of their culture. They had a willingness to share and really good attitudes. My special THANKS to Patricia, who was our tour guide for Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu. She is one of the amazing people I met there. Her enthusiasm and knowledge is great. THANK YOU for such wonderful service, Southern Explorations." - Vandana Bajikar
"We cannot tell you how much we appreciated the extraordinary job Southern Explorations did to coordinate the logistics of the complicated travel arrangements required for our Peru and Galapagos trip (and you did it all on very short notice). The travel, accommodations, and food arrangements were generally seamless and the guides where knowledgeable, resourceful and fun!
Thank you for the adventure of a lifetime!"
- Becky Jessen & Tom Moore
"I thought Patricia was an excellent guide. She was knowledgeable about all aspects of the tour (plants, animals, birds, ruins, etc). She also understood the needs of us hikers and did everything possible to keep us comfortable. She was also warm and personable. We all liked her very much."
- Joe Luse
Classic Inca Trail
"We travel a great deal. We believe that Southern Explorations stands at the top of our experience in its focus on the customer.
In addition to a superb job of organizing a trip and attention to details, were most impressed with the way that the US and Peru-based staffs made extraordinary efforts to work with our family. This included making sure our son was safe to eat the foods (due to his food allergies), to adding on specific excursions to a small village of weavers and arranging a bike tour, to the ability of the local guides to get to know us as people, not just to conduct the guided tour. This made for a rich and worthwhile experience. Keep it up! The ultimate compliment in this world is whether we would call again to arrange a trip to another country.
The answer is a definite Yes."
- The Gilman Family
"Judy and I are still on a big high from our incredible vacation to Peru. We have shared our adventure tales with our family and many of our friends who were very excited to hear our about it all.
Not only did the trip fully exceed our expectations but the guides and staff of Southern Exploration helped make our vacation the most enjoyable and relaxing we could have imagined. We would like to extend a big thank you to our extremely knowledgeable guides: Oscar (Lima), Aldo (Puerto Maldonado), Juan (Cusco) and in particular, Jose (Sacred Valley and Inca Trail). Most of our trip was in the safe hands of Jose, whom made the Inca Trail an incredible, fascinating experience for us both and was very reassuring every step of the way. All the guides assigned to us during the trip had a stellar knowledge of their subject and were only too happy to share their knowledge and facts with us. We learnt so much about the people and culture of Peru, the Incas, all the interesting ruins, the jungle, and much more, from the Southern Explorations guides and we have continued reading more on these topics since we returned home.
Southern Explorations is an organization that I will be recommending whenever the subject of South American adventure travel is the topic.
Thank you for organizing this fantastic vacation for us."
- Tony Scott
"Southern Explorations provides perfectly organized excursions featuring a well-balanced mixture of learning and hiking in very small groups. I enjoyed every moment of my Peru trip; I am fascinated by the Inca Empire and the mind-blowing landscape. I highly recommend Southern Explorations." - Sven Zuehlsdorf
Guides:
"Jesus was our guide in the Amazon and he was very good. He was very enthusiastic about the wildlife and horticulture. He was always courteous and helpful.
Gustavo was our guide for Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley (Cusco). Gustavo is very intelligent and knows his Inca history. He went out of his way to make us comfortable and we learned a tremendous amount about the area from Gustavo.
I believe Oscar (?) was our guide for the last day in Lima. He was also exceptional. Oscar took us to amazing and beautiful places around Lima. He was extremely intelligent and knew his architecture and time periods. He also volunteers at the local Geological sites on his time off and was very knowledgeable in that respect too.
The hotel accommodations were awesome. We loved the El Libertador hotel and the Pueblo Hotel in Machu Picchu was outstanding. The hotel in Ollantaytambo (spelling) was very clean and nice but we would have loved to stay another night at the Pueblo Hotel and would have taken a later train ride if that was possible. The Pueblo Hotel was really incredible."
- Robin and John Lindsay
Amazon and Machu Picchu
"Our Cusco/Machu Picchu experience was nothing short of FABULOUS.
We loved the streets and markets in Cusco, visiting the cathedrals and archeological sites, and our visits in the Sacred Valley before arriving at Machu Picchu. Waiting for the sunrise on our second day at Machu Picchu was one of those priceless moments I shared with my two daughters. Our guide Patricia was knowledgeable and wonderful and a real pleasure to have with us. We were well taken care of from arrival to departure by Southern Explorations, and I have only good things to say about how great this trip was."
- Jean Smith, Richmond, Virginia
Machu Picchu and Galapagos
Hola,
. . .emailing you from Macchu Picchu...I return to the States on Monday early AM....The trip has been terrific...Can we take Augosto back to the States as he is magnificent...can you tell your people here how we all LOVE LOVE LOVE him....will fill out the form upon return...We are off to Cusco tonight and then to Puno etc.
You guys are the best...and Peru is just beautiful...the people are so kind and accommodating...
Hasta Luego
- Sharon Albert
Exploring Machu Picchu
Hi Justin!
I just called your office and they said you were out of town but checking your email. . . our group just got home yesterday and we are still numb with happiness! I miss my group...I started my day with tea! Unfortunately, it wasn't coca tea...
I got two phone calls from you but was unable to return them until today and now you are off somewhere fun I hope....I will do the eval probably this weekend but I have to say that overwhelming the group had a wonderful experience due in large part to the efforts of Jose Ugarte...he went beyond the call of duty. He was there for us even when we didn't realize we needed him....I would say that without him the trip would have been a different and more difficult experience....so thank you and give him a raise! Lookingforward to talkingto you next week.
I looked at the pictures again and realized I hadn't sent you one with me in it so here's my favorite picture, as I can't believe I finally made it to my dream destination.
It was a dream come true for me....your company is awesome!
- Susanna Heapy
Classic Inca Trail
Juan was really outstanding as a tour guide. He was informative, interesting and passionate about Peru. He took my son on an excellent hike which was the highlight of his trip. We can't say enough good things about Juan. SE really went beyond expectations when you anticipated the rail strike and got us to Machu Picchu a day ahead to avoid the strike. That was fantastic!
- Jill Baskin
Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca
Dear Justin and the Southern Explorations Team,
I wanted to take a moment to thank you for the vacation of a lifetime! I have been wanting to visit Machu Picchu for 23 years and was worried that I might have over-hyped it in my mind but every moment of the trip exceeded my expectations! Our guides, Harry and Armando, were incredibly accommodating, knowledgeable, kind, patient, fun and creative and we will never forget them. The pace of the trip was coordinated to fit all fitness levels so that no one felt pressured beyond their limits or slowed down. Our guides knew exactly when we needed rest and when to let us go on our own.
The porters who labored and cooked for us were unbelievable! The food was worthy of 3 star restaurants and I still think about (and long for) Franklin's cooking today. Somehow, the porters managed to bake one of the best cakes I have ever had on day 4 of the trek in a camp oven for my husband and my first year anniversary. the camps that you reserved were all gorgeous locations and it was so nice to have camp set up when we arrived each day from hiking. Popcorn and tea in the afternoons was priceless.
The coordination from the front office with tickets and transfers and changes and tours was completely seamless and looked easy but I know how much work went into making our trip so smooth. Milagros was an incredible help and it was such a relief to see her friendly face at 1:00 a.m. in the Lima airport and again at the train station on our way home from Machu Picchu. The hotels you have partnered with were also very impressive (especially in Aguas Calientes!).
Our group of fellow travelers were some of the best people I have ever met and I couldn't have picked a better collection of people to share my dream with. We formed friendships that we hope will last forever. We have even talked of visiting one another and traveling together again.
The Inca Trail itself was a wonder beyond words and Machu Picchu and all of the ruins along the way were everything I had dreamed of and more. I had no idea the trail would be so beautiful and multifaceted nor did I know how many ruins we would see along the way. The tours we experienced in Cusco, Sacsayhuaman, Pisac the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo were incredible and added so much history and cultural context.
Thank you also for encouraging us to go paragliding over the Sacred Valley. It was an amazing experience that I will never forget and Richard (Paragliding guide) was a fantastic guide turned friend with whom we hope to stay in touch for a long time.
In short, the trip would have been good but not have been half as memorable without the coordination, knowledge and help of Southern Explorations. Justin--I am especially grateful to you for your friendship and guidance. I will always link you with Machu Picchu in my mind. You helped me realize a dream and I am grateful. You are truly doing your calling and you have attracted a group of people at Southern Explorations that reflects you perfectly.
With deep respect and thanks,
- Leah Brecunier-Dunn
Classic Inca Trail
Great trip--everything went like clock work; the guides were excellent and very informative. I would not hesitate to travel with Southern Explorations again.
- Ron Foulk
Classic Inca Trial
Guides:
Our guides couldn't have been better. Most especially Harry. He cared for us every step of the way. All the guides were very knowledgeable regarding the history and natural history of the areas we visited. The guides had good English language skills and we had no trouble communicating our questions and understanding their answers.
Meals:
I thoroughly enjoyed the food. There was plenty to eat and I never experienced even a tinge of traveler's diarrhea. The cooks were excellent and the meals were presented beautifully. The food really did exceed my expectations.
Transportation:
All the transportation was in clean and efficient vehicles. All the drivers were clean and courteous and the vehicles were also clean and ran well. We were met at each airport by our guides and had no trouble connecting.
Pre Departure Information:
I carried my itinerary with me on the trip and with the exception of the farm tour instead of the medicinal plant tour in the jungle, the days followed the itinerary almost exactly. The clothing you recommended for the trip was perfect for the conditions.
Additional Comments:
I think I've been spoiled by your company. In the past I've traveled in foreign countries on my own. This trek to Peru was so well organized and the accommodations, food, guides, etc., so good that I don't think I'll ever travel on my own again.
- Paul Whiting
Discover Peru
Guides:
Patricia was more than excellent - she was outstanding! She had a great attitude, was well organized, clear in her communication and very knowledgeable. Her presence/knowledge/apparent love of her country and its heritage added value to our trip that could not be obtained monetarily.
Meals:
All of the provided meals were outstanding.
Ground Operations:
The airport transfers were always courteous and right on time. The hotels, vans, SUV, train, and national flights were top notch.
- Dan and Tracie Henry
Peru and Galapagos Country Combo Trip
Jose (Peru Guide) was fabulous. He is very knowledgeable on all aspects of the tour from picking campsites to avoid crowds to the Cusco city tour. I would request Jose again on my next trip. He also figured out what aspects of the trip were important to each of us and made plans accordingly.
I very much appreciated the depth and thoughtfulness put into the tour stops - from sampling chicha (local beer derived from corn) to visiting a typical family home in Ollantaytambo to hiking off the beaten path in the mountains above Pisac. It was more than I expected and I loved it as I am very interested in learning about different cultures and their every day life.
I am very glad Jose spent the time to do these extra things.
- Maureen Grandcolas
Peru is a wonderful place and you guys made it even better for us. We could not have asked for more. We traveled at our own pace which was very important to us. Jose is so well connected in the area that it made a lot of doors open for us to make things very easy.
- Peter Frederick
Dear Jonathan,
got your phone message today. I have to say you all do a fine job. Alison and I had a terrific time, each day got better and better. Juan our guide in Cusco was wonderful, so knowledgeable and caring and knew how to keep us away from large crowds so we could get the most from each place visited. David the driver was conscientious and helpful. I just can't say enough about them they are truly an asset to you. The Icelandic couple that were on the trip, Sigrun and Gylfi, were fun and we hope to keep in touch. When we think of going south again we'll be thinking of you.
Yours truly,
- Alice Slavik
Dear Monica,
As our plans have become firmer and firmer and we are more and more excited about our trip to Peru, I wanted to thank you again for recommending Southern Explorations to us. We have been delighted with the quality and choice of their itineraries as well as with the professionalism and enthusiasm of Jonathan Borgida. As you know, we were very close to moving forward with LatinDiscover the organization so highly recommended by friends and colleagues. Without your help we would not have found what we now believe is a much better organization for our needs!
Best,
- Bridget Palmer
I wanted to send you this email to let you know that my wife and I had a great time in Peru. I want to commend our tour guide Harry Farfan. He was knowledgeable, friendly, professional and a very caring person. Harry went out of his way to make sure my wife and I enjoyed our stay. He was patient with us, educated us and took care of us as if we were family. As the end of our trip drew near, we considered him family. Thank you very much for sending him our way. I would also like to commend our driver Claudia. She was very cautious, punctual and a woman with a caring heart. Lastly, I want to commend Oscar Velasco. Oscar took care of several issues we had at the J W Marriott. He was professional and was on our side. He made sure we did not get short changed, and were treated right by the hotel. Thank you for having a professional and caring staff.
- John Figueroa
All the guides were extremely helpful and attentive to our needs, I especially thought Harry and Oscar in Peru were very knowledgeable and passionate about showing what the country had to offer. Kudos to them! Airport transfers were seamless...it was comforting to have someone waiting for you at each airport location. - Abby Fuchs
We had such a wonderful trip, even with the added adventure of the mudslide in between Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu.
We can't say enough about Milagros and her commitment to making sure we were well taken care of. She is wonderful!!! We felt that she went over and above the call of duty many times, especially in her efforts to get us to Machu Picchu and back. It was quite a day (and night) and it's been a wonderful story to tell.
We would absolutely travel with Southern Explorations again...do you do anything in SE Asia???
- Dave and Marcia Gross
Have the highest respect for Southern Expectations. Our friends and us had a wonderful 10 day trip with the most excellent guides you can imagine. The most impressive thing was from the CEO of the company to the guides they were there to take care of you and your group. The people in Peru were working around the clock at times to adjust to changing conditions outside there control. Our next adventure of this type without a doubt will be with Southern Explorations.
- Jim and Ginny Walker
I feel as though I know Southern Explorations well now, the people that work there in Seattle, in Lima and in Cusco. We heard lots of stories which just added to the feeling that we were being let in to this family that was knowledgably and passionate about what they did - it was great. As for the trip itself, it exceeded expectations, the food was great (we are convinced Walter's cooking can't be surpassed, even by the Inka Grill), I celebrated my birthday on the trail and was surprised with a cake and singing which brought me to tears (happy ones!), things were well organized and we always felt as though we were in good hands. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to experience Peru in a low-key yet in-depth manner. - Jennifer Schmidt It was such a great trip because it was customized just for us--from the itinerary to the trail, and even down to the food. Everything was so well planned that all we had to do was show up and enjoy our vacation. - Lauren Weinstein, New York City This was, by far, the best trip I have ever taken. Your entire team planned every detail to perfection.. There is nothing more you could have done and I will be spending more time in South America with you, because of it. - Andy Simpson We had a trip of a lifetime to Machu Picchu. Thanks for all your hard work organizing such a wonderful trip. The guides were fantastic, accommodations were beyond what we expected, and the food was incredible. Thanks again, and we hope to travel again with you in the near future. - Whit Sheard, Anchorage, Alaska GUIDES -
We had a fantastic time. I would recommend the trip and your company to others. I enjoyed the shortened Inca trail option that you provided, because it was a great balance for someone that wanted to hike (my boyfriend) but not camp (me).
- Stacy Scherf
The true test of a service like the one Southern Exploration provides, beyond providing a terrific travel experience, is the ability to efficiently resolve problems, big and small. Our trip was made amazing by the fact that it was well and custom-designed by knowledgeable people, who then made sure all went smoothly every step of the way. Thank you all for an unforgettable time in Peru!
Guided Tours - We were amazed at how well the tours were organized, providing the exact mix of guidance and freedom. We chose to stay a free afternoon after a guided morning at Machu Picchu, which was a highlight of the trip. The guides answered our questions and engaged in conversations about a variety of topics. We feel we learned a great deal, and as well had time to relax and enjoy.
Guides - We enjoyed meeting, spending time with and learning from Marybel and Betty. They are both excellent, knowledgeable and dedicated guides, who looked to help us learn and enjoy our experience. Milagros' dedication and organization skills are amazing.
- Marie Paul
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“This was the most wonderfully organized trip. Absolutely everything went as described. The guides were helpful, knowledgeable (especially Augusto), intelligent, friendly, easily understandable, and full of information on the local area.
Every transfer was smooth and easy. Everything Southern Explorations said was included was included - the little “Peru” handbook was essential reading.
The organization could not have been better; the value for the money was exceptional; the whole experience was a super mix of history, ecology, exercise, and sightseeing… truly a wonderful, unforgettable trip. I looked at your website for other trips the day I got back……
Thank you Southern Explorations and all your staff.”
- Christine Moore
Peru Highlights