Peru. What an incredible place with so many ways to experience this mesmerizing country. On this trip I had the opportunity to visit Lima and The Amazon Rainforest. I was in Lima, the country’s capital, for a couple of nights on the front and back end of the trip and exploring The Amazon Rainforest on The Delfin Amazon Cruises for 4 nights during the bulk of my travels. The experience of a lifetime and one I will never forget. Peru is for the curious traveler, the adventurer, the solo traveler or to be shared with loved ones. Peru welcomes you with open arms and is ready to fill your being with whatever you are looking for –
I arrived later in the evening at the Lima airport and was greeted by the hotel transportation representative as soon as I exited the airport. Easy arrival, found the transfer (yay!) and headed to Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel. Located in the vibrant Miraflores Park district, the hotel is beautiful, elegant and upscale. The hotel is perched on the grounds that overlook the sea and the rooms are spacious with Peruvian accents and large marble bathrooms. I stayed in one of the Deluxe Junior Suites on the upper level with gorgeous views. After checking in I headed down to the stylish and fresh Tragaluz Restaurant where I had an avocado ceviche, olives, chips and the best herbal mocktail. Of course non vegetarian items and other drinks are available if you wish. Sitting on the patio under the umbrellas with a light breeze, enjoying my meal, people watching and admiring the funky talent of local Artist Mateo Liebana – I had arrived! Let the adventure begin.
After the best night sleep (first time sleeping through the night without babies yelling for mommy in a longgggg time!) I headed up to enjoy breakfast at The Observatory Restaurant. Swimming pool and rooftop views are all around as I enjoyed cheese, croissants, yogurt, fruit and a decaf cappuccino, my fav! A wonderful stay at The Miraflores Park Hotel and to top it off the staff are incredibly gracious and wonderful to work with. After a stroll around the park and a bit of a wander around the neighborhood it was time to head to The Amazon.
Off to the airport to take the 1.5 hour flight to Iquitos. I arrived and was quickly greeted by the Delfin Amazon Cruises representatives. We were gathered onto the van and headed through Iquitos and on our way to Nauta where the Delfin III was waiting. The ride was around 2 hours, but felt much quicker. I was so excited to be there and was taking everything in as we drove by the markets, tuk tuks and people interacting with each other in their daily lives. We arrived at the Delfin Amazon Cruises lounge and hopped on a skiff that brought us to the ship. It’s hard to describe seeing The Amazon Rainforest and the Delfin III vessel for the first time – it’s almost overwhelming. Hard to grasp the vastness and beauty of it all. The Delfin III is the largest of all the cruises and has 22 suites, most with floor to ceiling panoramic windows. The vessel features gorgeous indoor and outdoor lounge areas, a dining area, a sundeck with a plunge pool, spa room and gym. All meals and excursions are also included in your stay. I stayed in one of the Upper Suites and it was stunning. Peruvian accents, comfy King Size bed and a constantly changing view of The Amazon Rainforest. I was here!!! Checked in, settled and ready to explore. Each day was filled with different excursions and activities:
-Morning meditations and yoga
-Skiff explorations where we spotted all types of birds, monkeys, sloths, lizards, frogs, snakes and alligators
-Kayaking
-Night safari with piranha fishing
-Swimming in the river with pink dolphins (did not get eaten by alligators, piranha or snakes yay!)
-Discussions on Cacao with the amazing Carolina Ward and learned more about her chocolate brand Conciencia Chocolate
-Cacao ceremony
-Community visit where we learned about the daily lives of those living in The Amazon Rainforest – it was such a moving experience and the community is in need of many items. Please check out the Delfin Amazon Cruises Go Fund Me page to support the Amazon Villagers.
-Jungle trekking where we found an anaconda, a tarantula, poison dart frogs, boa’s and the most magical plant life
-A visit to the manatee rescue center where they help wounded animals and bring them back to health
The excursions were incredible, the guides and staff on board were so caring, fun and made the trip so special. The food was wonderful. I made so many new friends that will be in my life forever. It was a magical trip filled with breathtaking scenery, endless adventures, lush rainforests and an experience I will never forget.
We left the vessel and headed back to the airport for the 1.5 hour flight to Lima. Upon arrival in Lima, I stayed at the funky, fabulous and artsy Hotel B for the final night and it was so cool. Located in the Barranco district filled with lively people, wild art and great restaurants. A Relais & Chateaux hotel, Hotel B is a super comfortable and historic hotel with an eclectic style and tons to take in. Situated in a great location, it was such fun to stroll around the neighborhood checking out local shops and restaurants. I stayed in the Aposento Junior Suite and loved the art and overall upbeat vibe. There are a variety of dining options at the hotel and one of my favs was the rooftop. Fun atmosphere with stunning views and a vibe to match. Yummy bites with a gastronomic foodie adventure to be had at Hotel B. The staff is so accommodating and a pleasure to work with. I was invited to dinner with my new found friends at the super hip and delectable Mayta Restaurant. A must when visiting Lima.
The night was over, the trip was done and it was time to reflect. Heading back to the airport the next day while the cab swims through the traffic magically evading any type of contact with the other cars, I think how thankful I am to be alive and to experience this world we live in. I am so appreciative of this trip, the experience and the generosity of everyone who was involved in inviting me to Peru. I am so excited to share the magic of Peru and to invite you to experience this country in your own unforgettable way.
#AWAKENYOURWANDERLUST
Have fun!
Pace