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This Cusco-based company offers unique trekking and lodging experiences on the Apu Ausangate route, with a focus on community-based rural tourism. You can choose from different programs that suit your preferences and abilities, ranging from two to seven days. You’ll stay in comfortable eco-lodges that are owned and run by the local communities, and enjoy the spectacular scenery and wildlife of the Andes.
Unique or special aspects
What sets Andean Lodges apart from other trekking companies is its social vision and its respect for the Andean culture and environment. Andean Lodges was founded in 2006 in association with the people of the peasant communities of Chillca and Osefina, who are the direct beneficiaries of the tourism activity. The company also employs local guides, cooks and porters, who are trained and certified by the company. Andean Lodges also supports various social and environmental projects, such as building schools, health centers and greenhouses, restoring ancient trails and protecting endangered species.
Setting
Andean Lodges is located in the Cusco region of Peru, in the Vilcanota mountain range. The Apu Ausangate route is one of the most beautiful and challenging treks in Peru, reaching altitudes of over 5,000 meters above sea level. The route offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, lakes, waterfalls and valleys. The route also passes through traditional villages, where you can witness the ancestral way of life of the Andean people.
Style
Andean Lodges combines adventure and comfort in its four eco-lodges along the Apu Ausangate route. Each lodge has a different name and theme, inspired by the local culture and nature. The lodges are built with local materials, such as stone, wood and thatch, and have solar panels for electricity and hot water. The lodges have cozy rooms with private bathrooms, dining areas with fireplaces, and panoramic windows that offer breathtaking views of the mountains. The lodges also have outdoor jacuzzis where you can relax after a long day of trekking.
Sustainability
Sustainability is at the core of Andean Lodges’ philosophy. The company follows ecological guidelines in its operations and lodges, such as using renewable energy sources, recycling and composting waste, using organic products and avoiding plastic bottles. The company also educates its guests and staff on environmental issues and best practices. The company also contributes to the conservation of the natural resources and biodiversity of the area, by supporting initiatives such as reforestation, wildlife monitoring and climate change adaptation.
Andean Lodges is not only a trekking company, but also a social enterprise that empowers its local community. The company works in partnership with the peasant communities of Chillca and Osefina, who own 50% of the shares of the company and receive a percentage of the profits. The company also provides employment and training opportunities for the local people, who work as guides, cooks, porters, lodge managers and artisans. The company also supports the development of the communities by funding and implementing projects such as building schools, health centers, greenhouses, libraries and cultural centers.
Rooms
Andean Lodges offers 16 rooms in four eco-lodges along the Apu Ausangate route. Each room has a comfortable bed, a private bathroom with hot water, a heater and a balcony. The rooms are decorated with colorful textiles and artworks made by the local women. The rooms also have stunning views of the mountains and the valleys. The rooms are cleaned daily and have fresh drinking water.
Food and drink
The food at Andean Lodges is fresh, delicious and varied. The company serves three meals a day, plus snacks and drinks, in its dining areas at each lodge. The menu changes daily, depending on the availability of ingredients from the local markets and farms. The cuisine is a fusion of Peruvian, international and vegetarian dishes, such as quinoa soup, alpaca steak, trout ceviche, pasta and salads. The company also caters to special dietary needs and preferences. The company also offers a selection of beers, wines, cocktails and juices.
Things to do
You can choose from different trekking programs that suit your preferences and abilities, ranging from two to seven days. You can enjoy the spectacular scenery and wildlife of the Apu Ausangate route, as well as visit traditional villages and sacred sites. You can also learn about the local culture and history from your guides and hosts. You can also enjoy other activities such as yoga, meditation, stargazing and photography.
Wider region
Andean Lodges is an ideal base to explore the wider region of Cusco and Peru. The company offers guided tours to some of the most popular attractions in the area, such as Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Cusco city and Lake Titicaca. The company can also arrange trips to other destinations in Peru, such as Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon and Amazon rainforest.
Kids
Andean Lodges is a family-friendly place that welcomes children of all ages. The company has a family program that includes shorter treks and easier trails for kids. The company also offers activities that are suitable for kids, such as visiting a llama farm, making pottery or playing games. The company also provides babysitting services upon request.
Getting there
Andean Lodges is located about three hours drive from Cusco city. You can get there by car or by shuttle service arranged by the company. If you’re flying from Lima or other cities in Peru, you can take a flight to Cusco airport, where the company will pick you up.
- Actively reduces consumption
- Sustainable build
- Recycling
- Employs local people
- Promotes local businesses
- Funds projects
- Local or organic food
- Education
- Community led or owned
- Culture
- Mountains
- Pool
- Up to 2
- Lodge
- Hiking
- Cultural visit
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Active
- Up to one week
