Journeys

                                       Journey of the Unity of Hearts

                                        July-August 2011

Learning from Mother Earth and its elements is one of the most special experiences to discover how one is connected to all beings in the unity of hearts, that we are not separated; that what we feel is an individual choice or action, actually is felt by all.

The journey of LIFE is one such that we return to Unity, that is the love within the Soul that we all share.  This is a unity that goes beyond all religions, race, culture and nationality.  In this journey, symbolically we experience a re-birth within the womb of Mother Earth to come back to a state of harmony, joy and love.

This full program consists of 3 journeys.  You may select either  journey alone or in con-junction with each other. The trips are very different in where we will be visiting and what we may experience, they are largely experiential in nature, it is for us to experience who we are ultimately.  There is a lot of intense learning and integrating of energy throughout the entire trips, so these journeys are not meant to be vacations but rather, personal transformations.

Journey A

MANU

TRAVEL INSIDE THE HEART OF THE FOREST MOTHER

July 15-24, 2011

10 days 9 nights

USD 3,000

Entering into the jungle of Peru is a very special learning and deep life experience. Throughout  the trip we are in contact with the energy of the forest and lakes, travelling by car by boat and on foot, we will see a great variety of birds and animals and have contact with an infinite number of plants. This journey will expand more of our consciousness about our planet, her energies and fragility, it is a journey of learning within our mother earth.

Day 01 July 15: Arrive in Lima airport

Stay overnight in Lima. Welcoming group dinner.

Day 02  July 16: Air travel from Lima to Cusco

Our guide will meet us in the airport

Gentle day with rest and city tour.  Lunch and dinner.

 Manu National Park

DAY 03 July 17: We leave Cusco early in the morning in one of our vehicles. Approximately mid-morning we visit the interesting tombs of Ninamarca, commonly known as “Chullpas”. We continue to Paucartambo, a picturesque Spanish colonial town, and then to the Acjanacu pass, which marks the beginning of the Cultural Zone of Manu Biosphere Reserve.  Here, a thick cloak of clouds provides perpetual humidity and makes an ideal habitat for epiphytic plants such as bromeliads. This varied and fascinating world is home of the Cock of the Rock, Spectacled Bear, Orchids, Tree Ferns (one of the oldest living plants), mosses and lichens. This cloud forest exists between 2,000 and 3,500 m.a.s.l. and at least 50% of the plant species found here are endemic to this region. Overnight at our “Orquídeas de San Pedro Lodge”.

Day 04 July 18: Today we wake up very early to observe the Cock of the Rock (Rupicola peruviana), Peru’s national bird from a platform. The male birds are a vibrant reddish orange, and as many as several dozen come together for an exhibition of a mating ritual dance in a place called Lek. The males display their crest, showing off and posturing for the females. The females, fewer in number, watch to select the most suitable males. After breakfast we continue in our vehicle (*1) down the narrow road between waterfalls and canyons toward the town of Pilcopata (*2) and then to Atalaya Port. here we board our covered, outboard motor boat and head down the Alto Madre de Dios River for approximately 15 minutes toward our private reserve of “Erika” a comfortable / rustic lodge owned also by Manu Adventures where we will hike through the interesting trail system that this transitional area between high and low jungle offers. Overnight at the lodge.

*1 Free Option: Here in Pilcopata town we will make the final settings for a 1 ½ river rafting (class I and II) trip down the Koshñipata River where we will have the opportunity for a dip and of course enjoy the spectacular view of the Koñeq Canyon.

*2 New!!! Option: We walk through the trail that leads us to the observation platform located 15 feet above the mammal lick itself where we wait for the lumbering peccaries to arrive, we observe and photograph them in action. Important: The observation depends on luck on availability and weather conditions.

DAY 05 July 19: After breakfast we leave Erika Lodge and board our canoe ride down the Alto Madre de Dios River to Boca Manu Village during our voyage we may see bird species typical of the river or forest edge such as: Black Skimmer, Pied Lapwing, Capped Heron, Jabiru Stork, and several species of kingfishers, swallows and flycatchers. Boca Manu’s village is situated a short distance from the confluence of the Manu River with the Alto Madre de Dios River place where you can buy your last fresh supplies and cold drinks before setting off again in the canoe toward Boca Lodge where we will spend the night. Option to do a short nigh walk.

*3 Free Option: Canopy zip down: At Erika Lodge, our guests traverse from tree to tree and platform to platform using pulleys on horizontal traverse cables zip lines), as they sail through the treetops of the tropical rainforest canopy, and over the trails far below. Expert guides assist you in this exciting journey through the different layers of the rain forests and explain what’s going on around you from the time you leave the ground, until you rappel back down to the forest floor.

DAY 06 July 20: Very early and after a ten minutes boat ride, we will arrive to a Parrot Lick “Collpa”, which is a wall of clay in the riverbanks, where many species of parrots such as the blue headed parrot, the white-eyed parakeet, the dusky-headed parrot the chestnut fronted macaw and others feed for mineral and salt supplements to their diet of seeds and fruits. After registering in the official tourist logbook at Limonal, the Park Rangers Headquarters and eating an early breakfast, we will continue travel up the Manu River for 4 hours approximately into the pristine heart of the reserve; we will leave the final traces of human habitation behind us.  We arrive Salvador Lake, our base safari campsite (screened dining room, toilets / showers, solar panel system for some electricity and with radio communication available). Differences in wildlife abundance will be noted immediately we will begin to sight macaws, herons, kingfishers and cormorants frequently and improve our chances of encounters with capybaras, caimans, monkeys, and other wildlife, you will often see animals sunning themselves on beaches, or foraging for food in the trees lining the riverbanks. This canoe ride gives us the opportunity to observe the immensity of the rainforest. We arrive early in the afternoon and have lunch before setting off on a jungle trail although at this time of day mammals and birds are not as active as in the early morning, we will concentrate on the forest itself and discuss general rain forest ecology, return to the campsite.

DAY 07 July 21: We rise early in the morning, as the forest is awakened by the Red Howler monkey (Aloatta seniculus) declaring its territory. A morning walk before breakfast is a great way to catch wildlife in the pursuit of food, as the temperature is very pleasant at this time of day. We explore Salvador Lake by paddling quietly along on a catamaran, giving us the opportunity to observe unique species of birds, monkeys, caimans and with luck the Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis). This endangered species can be seen swimming, fishing, eating and playing. After we enjoy lunch, we cross the river to walk a trail to another oxbow lake called Otorongo. This forest, which is estimated to be 200 to 300 years old and includes truly huge Ceiba trees and Strangler figs, and it, is home to several mammals that are occasionally encountered: Saddleback tamarins, Squirrel, Spider and Brown Capuchin Monkeys, the Collared and the white lipped peccaries. At the lake a strategically located observation tower rises 15 meters above the lake and the jungle floor, from the top you not only get spectacular view of the lake and the surrounding forest but also excellent opportunities to observe birds from the canopy, this also gives us more chances to observe wildlife including the Giant Otter. Back at Salvador Lake, late in the afternoon we will use the catamaran and with the help of flashlights we can observe the black caimans rise from the depths of the lake and begin their search for prey. Return to the safari campsite.

DAY 08 July 22: Once again we wake up early, enjoy walking around Salvador Lake and then pack up and slowly go down stream the interesting Manu River. We continue to Boca Manu’s Village, situated a short distance from the confluence of the Manu and Alto Madre de Dios rivers. From here we descend the Madre de Dios River arriving Boca Lodge and spend one more night in this magical Amazon jungle. Possibility to do a short night walk through the forest to observe American bullfrogs, horned frogs, tree frogs and an incredible variety of colorful insects.

DAY 09 July 23: Around mid morning or before we continue up the Alto Madre de Dios River to camp on an appropriate beach in the Cultural Zone if for some chance we can not arrive Erika Lodge and enjoy the sites and sounds of the jungle for one last night.

DAY 10 July 24: Waking up very early, we continue the trip by boat to Atalaya, where the bus will be waiting for us and drive back up and out of Manu, arriving in Cusco very late this night or the next early morning. END OF OUR SERVICES.

IMPORTANT: In order to meet with group and guide, receive last recommendations and answer questions; briefing one day prior to departure at 7:00pm. At the agency.

SERVICES INCLUDED: Own transportation, own boat transportation (covered motor boats), Specialized and bilingual guides, 01 night in Orquideas de San Pedro lodge, 02 nights in Erika Lodge, 01 night in Boca Manu Lodge, 02 nights in Sajino Safari Campsite, 01 night in Yanayacu Lodge,  meals (vegetarian option is available), first aid Kit including anti-ophidian shots, paperwork and payment for Park permits, radio communication equipment in all lodges and campsites, and as additional service we offer safety box for values and storage for luggage in Cusco’s main office.

NOT INCLUDED: Entrance fee to the Reserved Zone of Manu National Park

S/. 150 per person (about US$ 55).

Sodas, alcoholic drinks, tips ,mineral water for the first day, first breakfast neither last dinner.

Local air flights (we can arrange the tickets but the price is not included)

THINGS YOU SHOULD BRING ALONG ON A TRIP TO MANU

-    Sleeping bag. (Optional).

-    Binoculars, Camera.

-    Warm clothing (in case of a cold front), long sleeve shirts and long pants (cotton)

-    100% waterproof rain gear (long poncho or rain wear)

-    Insect repellant (at least 50% Deet), sunscreen lotion

-    Hiking shoes and sandals

-    Flashlight, enough batteries (alkaline) and bulbs

-    Wide brim hat (for sunny days), sun glasses

-    Towel for all the tour

-    Swimming suit, personal medicines and/or supplies (liquid for contact lenses, for example).

-    Day pack, and one back pack or duffel bag of luggage per person

-    One bottle of water for the first day, plastic bags.

Journey B

MACHU PICCHU, PUNO AND BOLIVIA

July  25-Aug 8

15 days and 14 nights

USD 4000

Puno is the town of folklore in Peru,  there is a lot of magic in this place especially in the special portal of Amaru Muru and the highest navigable lake on the planet, the womb of feminine energy, Lake Titicaca.  This lake also spans the border of Bolivia, and through our journey here, our vision and heart is opened by the beauty and energy of special places such as the Salar de Uyuni and much more.  This intention of this journey is for the harmonizing of the inner female and male parts of ourselves within.  As this harmony is crucial for the harmony we shall witness in the planet.

            FREE DAY July 25

          DAY 1 July 26

Group reception at Cusco, transfer to Hotel Casa de Campo, lunch, visit the temples of the four elements with Salute Ceremony for Apus (Mountains) and energy connection.  Overnight at the hotel.

DAY 2 July 27

Breakfast at the hotel, depart at 8am to go to Sacred Valley of the Incas.  We visit the archeological site of Pisac and the ceremonial center of Urco.  Lunch in Urubamba and travel to Ollantaytambo to catch the train to Machu Picchu.  Overnight in Hotel Kuychi.

DAY 3 July 28

Visit Machu Picchu the historical monument and connection with the Crystal City.  Connection and offering at the Rock Pachamama.

From Machu Picchu we go down town.  In the afternoon or evening we can go to the medicinal hot springs (optional, price not included in the program) and stay in the Hotel

Machu Picchu Pueblo or the Sanctuary Hotel.

DAY 4 July 29

Back on the train to Ollantaytambo where we take the bus to Puno.  Overnight in the Hotel Calasaya.

DAY 5 July 30

We visit the magical door of Amaru Muru in Chucuito, Puno and continue our trip to Tiwanaku, Bolivia, to visit the temples of Kalassaya Akapana Pyramid and the semi-subterranean temple.  Overnight at the Hotel Tinhuanaco.

DAY 6 July 31

Visit the Temple of the Moon in the City of La Paz.  Overnight at the Hotel las Brisas.

DAY 7 Aug 1

Bus trip to the Salar de Uyuni, the salt plains.  Overnight at the Hotel de Sal.

DAY 8, 9 AND 10 Aug 2-4

Visit the Salar de Uyuni, the Fish Island, the Salt Hotel, natural geysers, volcanoes and lakes.  Returning by the Stone Forest and the train cemetery.

DAY 11Aug 5

Return to La Paz through Copacabana, overnight at the Hotel Mirador.

DAY 12 Aug 6

Visit the Island of the Sun, sleeping in hotels in a rustic village.

DAY 13 Aug 7

Visit the Island of the Moon, back to Copacabana.

DAY 14 Aug 8

Return to Puno, overnight at the Hotel Calasaya.

DAY 15 Aug 9

Transportion to Juliaca Airport in Puno.  Return to your homeland.

INCLUDED

-All transportation explicitly stated in the itinerary, land stays of 14 nights based on double occupancy, all meals specified.

-Train tickets to Machu Picchu, and entrance fee for one day entry.  Visits to all archaeological specified throughout the trip.

-In Machu Picchu and Puno hotels are 3 stars.

NOT INCLUDED

-Meals on days off are not included.

-Personal expenses such as national or international calls, internet, laundry, excess baggage charges, alcoholic beverages, medicines, tips and / or any other service not explicitly stated in the program.

-OPTIONAL: Full Cancellation Insurance

-Local flights (we can arrange for the tickets but the price is not included)

ADDITIONAL

-Reading Coca leaves and healing based on individual participation, done by an Andean seer at a cost of USD$ 30.

IMPORTANT NOTE

-The itineraries and prices can change without notice, according to any price changes that may occur and for the convenience of the group.

-50% of the payment should be transferred as deposit including any bank charges for bank transfers overseas to the facilitator's account.  The remaining 50% balance is to be paid in full in cash on the first day of trip in Cusco.

-Participants carrying a HKSAR passport requires a Visa to enter Bolivia.  This visa needs to be applied for in person in the Bolivian Embassy in Beijing, China (which is the nearest Bolivian Embassy to HK).  I am willing to arrange a trip to Beijing for those who requires this service.

For those carrying a B.N.O. Passport, no visa is required. 

http://www.britishhongkong.com/main/bno-visa-free/

-For other passport inquiries regarding Bolivian Visa, check out http://bolivia.visahq.com/

Journey C

AREQUIPA, NAZCA, PARACAS AND LIMA

Aug 10-Aug 15

6 days 5 nights

USD 2500

In this trip we have the chance to visit and connect with many special sites and energies of Peru-- for example, in Colca Canyon we may see condors majestically soaring above us.  The wonder of the Nazca Lines is a must-see in Nazca, who has drawn such amazing figures and patterns on the slopes of Nasca? Till today it is still a mystery and has drawn millions of curious visitors.  A natural oasis, the beauty of Huacachina is not to be missed in Ica.  And the Ballestas Islands is definitely a heart and eye-opening experience to connect with the energy of infinite number of seagulls, sea lions and penguins.  We end our journey in Lima, with the opportunity of experiencing the wondrous gastronomic marvels in Peru's capital.

DAY 1 Aug 10:

Early in the morning depart to Chivay town, overnight in the hotel Colca Inn.

DAY 2 Aug 11:

Breakfast in the hotel, depart at 7 am to visit the Sacred Colca Canyon that is considered one of the most deepest canyons in the world, in the road we are going to see beautiful backgrounds ancient pre-Columbian terraces dedicated to the agriculture (the main activity for the Incas), when we arrive to the viewpoint we are going to see the greatness of the canyon and if we are lucky we will see the secret bird of the Andes the condor, then we  will have lunch and in the afternoon we will be relaxed at the hot springs of Calera.

DAY 3 Aug 12:

Depart to Arequipa City, have lunch and he afternoon is free, maybe you can visit the colonial city and the Santa Catalina monastery; at the night we leave Arequipa to travel to Nazca city.

DAY 4 Aug 13:

We check-in at the Alegria Hotel, its better not to have breakfast because we will have the overfly the Nazca Lines we can take many pictures from the shapes and symbols drew in the desert thousand years ago, in the afternoon we have lunch and travel to Paracas, we overnight in Santa Maria hotel.

DAY 5 Aug 14:

In the morning we will have breakfast at the hotel, then we go to the port to take the boat and visit the Ballestas islands we will be able to appreciate this marvel of the nature and the marine wild life. The sea lions will probably come closer until the boat or you will see many penguins in the water. Thousands of marine birds will fly between the islands or you will be able to see their nests on the rocks, in the afternoon we will visit Ica to have lunch and go to the Huacachina oasis it is the unique oasis all over the South America a beautiful place to rest, relax and also take wonderful pictures from the area. Overnight in Santa Maria hotel.

DAY 6 Aug 15:

Breakfast in the hotel and travel to Lima city, lunch on the way.

Return to your homeland.

THE TOUR INCLUDES:

-  All the transportation starting in Puno city for 6 days.

-  6 nights in overnights in hotels 3 stars based in double occupancy

-  All meals specified

-  Entrance and guiding to all the touristic places mentioned.

-

NOT INCLUDED:

-  Meals that are not mentioned.

-  Personal expenses such national or international calls.

-  Internet service (sometimes hotels do have).

-  Laundry.

-  Excess baggage charges.

-  Beverages in or out the meals.

-  Tips.

-  Medicines.

-  Any other services not specified in the program.

-  Local air flights (we can arrange the tickets but the price is not included)