Right now we love: Colca Canyon, Peru
Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of visiting Las Casitas del Colca, a new Orient Express property in the Colca Canyon. Located in southwest Peru, a three-hour drive from Arequipa, Colca Canyon is not yet on the radar of many travelers – but it should be. The fascinating drive to the property winds through a desolate, dry region inhabited primarily by alpacas, llamas and wild vicunas, a reminder of just how remote and inhospitable the area can be to all but the hardiest creatures. Las Casitas del Colca is a welcome green oasis amid these steep canyons and arid landscapes – each guest gets their own charming little house (”casita”), complete with plunge pool. The heated stone floors, four-poster bed, dramatic chandelier, and crackling fire make it hard to leave the casita, but guests are lured out with daily activities like horseback riding, cooking classes and village tours. By far the most popular activity (and an absolute must for guests) is a visit to Condor’s Cross, the spot where giant Andean condors ride thermal drafts above the deep canyon. When we visited, six condors soared above us: with an average wingspan of 9 feet, the sight of these enormous birds did not disappoint. A visit to Las Casitas del Colca and Condor’s Cross is highly recommended for those who enjoy stepping off the beaten path; check out our suggested itineraries to Peru for more ideas on your own customized journey.
– Christina Stubbs
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