2012-03-20

TOURISM TO KUELAP IS ON THE RISE

Known as the “Machu Picchu of northern Peru”, the Kuelap archeological complex is the most important one in Peru's upper jungle region. The fortress was built in the midst of the awe-inspiring crossroads between the Andes and the Amazon, a setting without peer.

Tourism to Kuelap is small scale in comparison to other destinations around the country, yet it experienced a growth spurt of 24% in 2011, with domestic tourism claiming the largest share; international tourism has notably been on the rise as well, and more visits are expected by the end of this year.

2012-01-25

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNER OF THE 2ND STAGE OF OUR MACHU PICCHU PHOTO CONTEST

Today we celebrate 100 years of Machu Picchu to the world, sharing with you the winning photo of our Machu Picchu Photo Contest.

Our friends captured the magic moment lived in one of the 7 wonders of the world and the winner was Inga Judge. Congratulations

2011-11-22

CONDOR CUSCO NOW ENJOYS RAINFOREST ALLIANCE (RFA) VERIFICATION

This means that, on the basis of having made progress on our responsibility towards communities, we are laying in a course to follow for developing “greener” tourism and that we will continue to promote practices in pro of the environment that will make our workplace and our passengers’ experience more environmentally friendly. We have taken on the commitment of seriously advocating sustainable tourism in all our destinations!

We wish to thank the entire Condor Cusco team that took on the commitment of leading this initiative which marks the beginning of a new corporate direction on sustainable tourism.

The Condor Travel Team

2011-08-31

CONDOR TRAVEL AND ORIENT EXPRESS TRAINED LOCAL MEMBERS FROM MULLAKS MISMINAY

In order to develop inclusive business in the Mullak’s-Misminay community, Orient Express joins in to the Condor Travel’s iniciative for training local community members in hotel techniques, so they can offer homestay tourism in the village in Maras province, Cusco. 

Since 2010, personnel from Monasterio and Rio Sagrado are providing personalized assessment to a group of community members that are taking their first steps in the touristic services area, regarding costumer service, F&B and housekeeping. 

These first trainings have been an important incentive for teachers and students alike, who have been able to evaluate a high quality service, take the best out of it and put it into practice in their own local context. 

Different events, such as contests and internships within the hotel facilities, have been planned for soon, in order to reinforce basic lessons and motivate the effective learning by the community members.

2011-08-02

MICHAEL DUNBAR - WINNER OF THE MACHU PICCHU PHOTO CONTEST EXPRESSED HIS EMOTION

The winner of the Machu Picchu Photo Contest, Michael Dunbar, expressed how he feels about his trip to Peru  and about winning the tour to Galapagos Islands.

"I believed visiting Peru this spring was the trip of a lifetime. The people and places I visited are something I’ll never forget. Now, thanks to winning the Condor Travel photo contest, I’ll have an opportunity for another trip of a lifetime. I couldn’t be more excited!"

The Condor Travel Team

2011-07-25

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNER OF THE 1ST STAGE OF OUR MACHU PICCHU PHOTO CONTEST

Today we celebrate 100 years of Machu Picchu to the world, sharing with you the winning photo of our Machu Picchu Photo Contest.

Our friends captured the magic moment lived in one of the 7 wonders of the world and the winner was Michael Dumbar. Congratulations

Do not forget, there is still a second stage of the contest so submit your photo as soon as possible. 

Follow the news on the contest in our Facebook Page.

The Condor Travel Team

2011-06-27

CONDOR TRAVEL & LAN AIRLINES HOSTED A SUCCESSFUL EDUCATIONAL TRIP TO MACHU PICCHU & IGUAZU FALLS

Lan Airlines and Condor Travel joined together on an effort to invite 10 agents from Denmark, Sweden and Norway on a fantastic experience to two of the most impressive highlights of South America: Iguassu Falls and Machu Picchu.

Promoting the new direct flight LIMA-IGUASSU; Lan and Condor organized a 9 day trip to Peru and Brazil. In Lima the group visited its interesting museums, traditions and even rode the famous Peruvian Paso Horse; in Iguassu Falls they visited both the Brazilian and Argentinean side of the Falls and enjoyed a fun boat ride. In Cusco, they learned about the Incas, they visited Misminay community and were welcomed by a local family there before heading to the impressive Machu Picchu citadel. 

Condor Travel would like to thank the support of its hotel partners: Orient Express Hotels & Trains, Casa Andina, Atton hotels, Continental Inn, Westin Lima, Inkaterra and Sol y Luna lodge for making this wonderful experience possible. 

The Condor Travel Team

2011-06-23

MACHU PICCHU ARTIFACTS ARRIVE IN CUSCO

Cusco, Jun. 22 (ANDINA). The archaeological pieces, taken from Machu Picchu nearly a century ago for research at Yale University, arrived Wednesday morning to Cusco which were received by political, military and religious authorities.

These Inca artifacts landed at Alejandro Velasco Astete airport at around 08.20 hours (13.02 GMT) in an airplane of the Peruvian Air force (FAP) along with Peru’s Culture Minister Juan Ossio.

After unloading the relics from the aircraft, a welcome ceremony was carried out with the attendance of Regional Governor Jorge Acurio, Cusco Provincial Mayor Luis Florez and Machu Picchu District Major Oscar Valencia, among other authorities.

Minister Ossio stressed “it is an unforgettable day for me, I’m overwhelmed. I appreciate and love Cusco, because it was here where I identified with the culture”.

In addition, Victor Raul Aguilar, rector of Cusco's San Antonio Abad University (UNSAAC) said that it is a historic moment for people of Cusco.

It is worth mentioning that Peruvians who attend the Machu Picchu artifact exhibition, to be housed at Cusco’s Casa Concha in July, will enter free of charge.

2011-02-25

TAMBO DEL INKA HOTEL OPENS ITS OWN TRAIN STATION TO MACHU PICCHU

Cusco, Feb. 25 (ANDINA). The luxury resort Libertador Tambo del Inka in Peru's Sacred Valley has just opened its own train station –Urubamba- to Machu Picchu, thanks to an agreement with Peru’s national railway network PeruRail.

The Urubamba Station has been included along two of PeruRails Tourist routes to Machu Picchu (Autovagon 601 and Vistadome 304). The daily service will make the archaeological site much more accessible for tourists staying in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, according to www.etravelblackboard.com. 

Peru's Tourism Board coordinator for Asia Pacific, Rosana Guinea, says that increasing the ease of accessibility to internationally popular locations such as Machu Picchu is vital to improving the quality of visitor's experiences and increasing visitor numbers.

Tambo del Inka Hotel is the second new Luxury Collection Hotel from Peruvian Chain Libertador in two years. Nestled in the Sacred Valley, just 50 m from Cusco, the resort has quickly become a leader in the market, offering a full service spa, and amazing views of the Urubamba River.

“Peru is working very hard on product development to increase the quality and quantity of tourism services in Peru, and we are anticipating that the upcoming Centenary of the Rediscovery of Machu Picchu next July will be a watershed moment”, Rosana said.

“The Machu Picchu Centenary is expected to drive record visitor numbers to Peru, and leading international and national hotel chains are rushing in to open luxury and boutique hotels in key locations. According to Peru’s Hotel Society (SHP), hotel investments will reach a historic record in 2011 totalling $482.5 million, a 324.5% rise compared to 2010”, she added.

The first Westin in Peru will open in Lima in the coming months. Set to become Lima’s tallest building, it will offer meeting and convention facilities, stunning restaurants and luxurious suites.

In Cusco, a new Aranwa Hotel, a JV Marriot Hotel, and an expanded Orient Express owned Monasterio Hotel will open within the next six months. The 5-star Libertador Hotel in Cusco, one of the finest hotels in the region with 254 rooms, has been renovated as well.

The Condor Travel Team

2011-02-21

MAINTENANCE ROAD WORKS IN OLLANTAYTAMBO

Due to maintenance road works in Ollanta town, it is not permitted to have large vehicles in the area. 

According to this regulation, passengers must get down at Ollanta main square and, take a 20 minute walk from there to get to the train station.

If passengers have overnight at Pakaritampu Hotel, located in the same area, the operation will be the same.

For small vehicles, such as van and sprinters, this is not a problem. Passengers will be dropped off at the train station or hotel itself.

We expect that work roads end by mid April.

The transfers from the hotels to Ollanta have been re-scheduled, to arrive in time before the train departure (20 minutes earlier).

We're sorry for the inconvenience that this may cause. 

The Condor Travel Team

2011-02-07

14 INTACT PRE-COLUMBIAN TOMBS, TEMPLE FOUND IN LAMBAYEQUE, PERU

An important religious temple of the Mochica culture, along with a group of tombs from all the cultures that inhabited the northern coast of Peru from 1,500 B.C. until the Spanish conquest, have recently been discovered in the Lambayeque region of Peru's north coast.

Edgar Bracamonte, the archaeologist heading the project, told Efe Thursday that the discoveries indicate that the region, famous for the discovery of the magnificent tomb of the Lord of Sipan - considered the Tutankhamun of America - has many more surprises in store.

Work began on the Santa Rosa pre-Colombian tomb last November as part of a series of projects that include new explorations but also entail work to protect the archaeological sites from the weather and to prevent looting by tomb raiders.

Notable archaeological finds unearthed up to now include 14 tombs, completely intact, that date back to such cultures as the Chimu, Lambayeque and Inca, as well as other burial sites found opened and damaged - not by today's archaeological tomb robbers but by the same ancient cultures that settled the area over the centuries.

"What we have found at the site is a complete sequence of cultural occupation of the northern coast of Peru in the Lambayeque Valley, from its primitive origins until the Incas - in other words, from 1,500 B.C. to the arrival of Spaniards in the area," Bracamonte said.

For the archaeologist, the abundance of remains from all these cultures shows the importance of the site, which also, since they are concentrated at a central point in the Lambayeque Valley and not on one side of it like the tombs of Sipan, made the place "a point of control and exchange between the mountains and the coast."

The other great discovery up to now is also related to this strategic geographical location: a temple of the Mochica culture from between 550 and 800 A.D.

It has been christened the "Temple of Clay" for the construction technique employed, which differs from the traditional adobe used in the rest of the area's ancient structures.

"This was a traditional type of architecture in the Peruvian mountains," Bracamonte said, adding that the numerous offerings found along with the altars and platforms seem to indicate the religious importance of the area.

The work of exploration will continue for now at the temple, where offerings of wood and ceramic objects are being dug up - work which, according to the archaeologist, will shed light on "cultural evolution in the northern region of Peru and its processes of syncretism." (EFE)

2011-01-17

SITUATION WITH RAINS IN BRAZIL

Just a short notice to inform you about the situation with the rains in Brazil. 

The strong rains fell in the Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo area and up to this moment are not disturbing our operations.

The most affected areas in Rio de Janeiro are the mountains like Petropolis, Teresópolis and Nova Friburgo, where the access is difficult and the best option is avoid this places. Since the only city that is normally visited in this area is Petrópolis, we are asking our clients not to take tours in this place at this moment. 

In Sao Paulo the situation is more calm than in mountain areas in Rio.

Hope that this information helps you clarify your concerns.

Should you need more information please don’t hesitate to contact us!

The Condor Travel Team

2011-01-14

SAFETY MEASSURES ON THE RAILWAY TO MACHU PICCHU

PERURAIL advices that as a result of a pronouncement from Ferrocarril Transandino, railway concessionaire, attending safety measures, from January 1st to February 28th 2011, the train operations from/to Poroy will be offered on bimodal basis.

Important:

If any file/booking is affected, will inform you on a separate email. For further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. Warmest regards from,

The Condor Travel Team

2011-01-14

NEW YORK TIMES, SANTIAGO DE CHILE #1 PLACE TO VISIT IN 2011

www.thisischile.cl

At the end of its rollercoaster year in 2010, Chile has been picked from a list of 41 highlighted destinations by one of America's most-read newspapers as the best tourist destination for 2011.

From “the beaches of Mexico to the wilds of Kurdistan,” The New York Times chose Santiago over all else as the most gratifying tourist destination for the oncoming year.

The article - published in full on the newspaper's website - frames Santiago as a city bouncing back faster than ever from the aftermath of the country's February earthquake. Its sparkling cultural scene and an array of top-class restaurants and hotels such as the boutique Aubrey, or "W", lead the editors of the newspaper to believe it carved itself out as best of all.
 
The declaration will undoubtedly send a flurry of open-minded tourists to Chile's capital - The New York Times, whose readership averages 876,638 people daily, is one of the largest newspapers in the U.S.
 
The ranking puts Santiago s upcoming culture scene as the top reason why tourists would want to visit. February s earthquake, it says, only “briefly paused a cultural shift that had (already) begun to take hold in the city.”

Despite the devastating 8.8 magnitude earthquake and widespread disruption across the country, Chile has been on the fast-track to a full economic recovery, with the last seven consecutive months recording financial growth. Many cultural sites in Santiago – including the Museum of Fine Arts – were also heavily damaged. But the swift action on reconstruction has ultimately proved a bonus for the Chilean economy.

The Chilean government's recent investment into the arts has seen resurgence of public spaces for art and contemporary art events. The article mentions the newly inaugurated Gabriela Mistral Center – a gigantic and atmospheric 200,000-square-foot building made of glass weathering steel.

Since its opening, the center has hosted a variety of open air music and art shows - to see more information about future events programs, visit the official website. Other upcoming cultural events around the neighborhood include the Providencia International Jazz Festival, which begins tomorrow, Jan. 11, and the ongoing, month-long Santiago a Mil festival.


The Condor Travel Team
 

2010-12-01

HOLIDAY IN PERU

We would like to inform you that our office in Peru will be closed next December 8th, due to a national holiday.


Of course, our 24-hour operational office cannot stop, and will be available on those dates. If any operational requirement or emergency should arise, the direct contacts are:


Operations Department, 24 Hours  (Peru): 
Office: + 511 615-3000. Ext. 251 /113
Mobile: + 511 99350-0766
E-Mail:  24horas@condortravel.com 

As usual during these kinds of festivities, some suppliers may change their operational routines, especially churches and other cultural sites. Our Sales or Operations departments will advise you about specific cases that may affect your passengers. 

The CONDOR TRAVEL Team

2010-11-25

CUSCO IS THE SEVENTH BEST CITY TO VISIT IN AMERICA

The Readers Choice Awards 2010 –the choice is made once a year by thousands of readers of the American magazine Condé Naste Traveler, one of the most important publications of tourism worldwide, emphasizes that the 10 favorite destinations in America are: Vancouver, Québec, Victoria, Montreal and Toronto in Canada, San Miguel de Allende and Oaxaca in Mexico, Antigua in Guatemala, Buenos Aires in Argentina and in Peru, Cusco in 7th place.

The Condor Travel Team

2010-10-12

TACA ANNOUCES NEW CONNECTIONS BETWEEN LIMA AND SOUTH AMERICA

Taca Airlines is set to launch four new direct international flights from its hub at its home base of Lima. The new Taca Airlines flights are:

Lima to Mendoza (Argentina)
Lima to Antofagasta (Chile)
and Lima to Brasilia (Brazil)

This growth represents a 25% increase in TACA's operations from the Peruvian capital.

The Lima-Mendoza route will start operations on December 1st and will operate 3 times per week, becoming the second  Argentinian city connected by TACA from Lima as Taca already operates 17 direct flights each week to Buenos Aires.
The Lima-Antofagasta route will start to on January 3rd, 2011, with 3 flights per week and the Lima-Brasilia route will start operations on December 15, with 3 weekly flights.


The Condor Travel Team

2010-09-07

NEW FLIGHTS TO THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

LAN announces their new flights to the Galápagos Islands starting September 16,2010. Important information and recommendations  when booking flights, cruises and programs to the Galápagos Islands……
 
1. When booking with Condor Travel air spaces to the Galapagos Islands in connection with the cruise or land based/combined program selected are automatically confirmed and the air tickets are issued locally, once the proposal given have been accepted.

2. In the event that the air ticket to the Galápagos Islands has been included within the international ticket, please take note of the following important information:

a) There are two airports in the Galápagos Islands; one located in the Island of Baltra and the other in the Island of San Cristobal,

b) Some cruises have planned to start their cruise itineraries from the Baltra airport and finish at San Cristobal airport or vice versa. In other words the air ticket required in this case would be arriving to one airport and departing from the other,

c) Most of the cruises operate with pre-established flights as the operation of the cruise is planned around the schedule of an specific flight,

d) Land based/combined programs of Hotel/Yacht (which include overnight at a hotel in the Island of Santa Cruz and daily excursions to the nearby Islands) could be operated with any of the flights arriving and departing from Baltra.

Nevertheless, please bear in mind that the overland transfers from the airport in Baltra to the Island of Santa Cruz where the hotels are located or vice versa are planned around the time when most of the flights arrive or depart; therefore, if the flight that you have included in the international ticket arrives or departs at a different time than the rest of the domestic flights, the arrival and departure transfers will be scheduled on private basis and not as a group transfer, resulting in additional charges for this service. We will inform if this is the case when we give you the confirmation of the reservation of the program in the Galápagos Islands.

3. We recommend: 

a)  Before buying the air tickets to Galápagos in connection with the international air tickets to have the cruise or the land based/combined program to the Galápagos Islands confirmed, as doing it all the way around may result that there are no cruises or programs available within the dates in which you have decided to travel.

Nevertheless, if you have already bought the air tickets we will do our best to obtain what is required,

b) Schedule the arrival to Ecuador at least one day before the beginning of the selected cruise or program in the Galápagos Islands as if the international flight is delayed there is the risk to miss the connecttion with the flight scheduled to the Galápagos Islands. Vessels or yachts cannot wait for any delayed passengers for several reasons as:

- Due to the structure of the itineraries in the Galápagos Islands very seldom the vessel/yacht will be able to pick-up delayed passengers in other points of the Islands,
- If they wait anchored near the airport that would mean that the rest of the passengers travelling on that particular cruise will be losing part of what it is in their schedule,
- To come back to the airport when passengers arrive may not be possible as due to the itinerary assigned by the Galápagos National Park to the vessel or yacht to re-route implies changing the itinerary and affecting other operations, and
- Any cancellation of a cruise or program due to delayed flights results in full cancellation fee.

Remember  the Galápagos Islands is a National Park and that the vessels and yachts as well as Land based program follow the itinerary that has been previously approved by the National Park Authorities and which cannot be changed.


The Condor Travel Team

2010-08-16

HUMPBACK WHALES WATCHING IN PERU NORTHERN BEACHES

(ANDINA). Tourism industry in Peru’s northern beaches is mobilizing to welcome many visitors, especially from Europe, attracted by a spectacular show of humpback whales -described as the most sociable and playful of all whale species- which will be visiting the coast line of Peru from August to October.
It is estimated that this year, more than 1,000 whales will travel 7,000 kilometers from their feeding grounds in Antarctic waters to breeding and rearing areas in tropical and subtropical waters, located in Northern Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Panama and parts of Costa Rica.

In many countries, whale watching is a tourist industry which generates millions of dollars, since these whales offer a unique experience: they jump, "dance" and often hit the water with their head, fins or tail.

This is why, tourism business people are adapting their infrastructure to welcome foreign, local and national visitors, lovers marine fauna.


The Condor Travel Team

2010-08-03

SANTIAGO STRIVES TO BECOME A COOL, GLOBAL CITY - REPORT BY THE BBC

In February Chile was struck by one of the largest recorded earthquakes in history and work to repair damaged buildings and roads, particularly in the Concepcion region, is still going on.

But in the capital Santiago, life has quickly returned to normal. Over 300km away from the epicentre, it did not suffer the same level of damage.

However, tourism there has been struck very heavily. The Chilean tourism industry says the media is responsible for misrepresenting the danger of the situation and deterring tourists.

Tayfun King found that in spite of this, Santiago is charging ahead to celebrate Chile's 200 years of independence.

To see the video click on the following link:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/fast_track/8816162.stm


The Condor Travel Team

2010-08-02

TEMPORAL CLOSURE OF AEROPARQUE NEWBERY IN BUENOS AIRES- ARGENTINA

From the end of October to the first week of December all the operations will be transferred to Ezeiza Airport due to some enlargement works on the air terminal of Newbery. 
Airports Argentina 2000, private airport concessionaire, assured that at that time a series of works that will permit to attend without problems all domestic flights will be concluded in Ezeiza.

For further information do not hesitate to contact us. 


The Condor Travel Team

2010-07-26

COLD WAVE IN PERU

Last week we had some of the coldest temperatures ever felt in South America. The southern zone of Peru reached temperatures below 0°C (below 32°F).  Some of the communities in the highest parts of Cusco have reached temperatures up to -20°C (-4°F) this week, as informed by the National Meteorology and Hydrology Service (Senamhi).  These values were registered in communities located at more than 3,800 mt. of altitude.  This cold temperature is also felt in Cusco city, where temperature decreased to -4.2°C (24.08°F).

Arequipa and Puno are also affected by this cold wave.  The temperature in Puno’s province of Santa Rosa de Mazocruz, located at 4,500 mt. above sea level marked -24°C (-11.2°F).  In the district of Chivay (Arequipa), the temperature dropped to -8°C (17.6°F) last Tuesday.

In the Amazon Rainforest, in the area of Puerto Maldonado, last week the temperatures dropped to 9°C (48.2°F).

In Lima, the temperature dropped to 8°C (46.4°F) last week;  which is very low for Lima City. But, since it was reached during the night; it was not felt nor affected the population or visitors.

These low temperatures did not affect our tourists as all the hotels and services are ready to overcome this cold. The alarm came mainly for the communities that live in poor conditions in cold areas were, unfortunately, some have died because of pneumonia. The government has already taken action in these places and is helping out the affected. 

This week we are expecting the following temperatures in the main destinations:

We remain at your service for any question you may have.


The CONDOR TRAVEL Team

2010-07-15

TRAIN SERVICE TO CORCOVADO MOUNTAIN BEGINS OPERATIONS

The Corcovado train service to the recently reopened Christ The Redeemer monument is available from today Thursday, July 15th.

The service was suspended three months ago because it was damaged by heavy rains.


The Condor Travel team

2010-07-05

LAN AIRLINES LAUNCHES LIMA - SAN FRANCISCO DIRECT FLIGHT!

Lan Airlines, member of the One World Alliance, has just launched a new international service connecting Lima to San Francisco in the United States, on a direct flight.

On July 1st, LAN inaugurated its fourth US gateway at San Francisco International Airport with nonstop service to Lima, Peru.

LAN is offering 4 flights per week to Lima on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday with continuing service to Sao Paulo, Brazil.

San Francisco will join the existing US gateways of New York, Los Angeles and Miami.

Lan Peru will service the new route on Boeing 767-300s with a capacity for 221 passengers.

For more information please contact sales@condortravel.com 


The Condor Travel Team

2010-06-25

BARREIRINHAS AIRPORT - BRAZIL

We would like to inform our clients that Barreirinhas airport is temporarily closed.
All operations of air transportation and over flight are not being performed. There is still no accurate forecast as to a return of operations, but the information from the local airline company indicates the normalization of activities for end of June.
Thank you for understanding.

The Condor Travel Team

2010-06-22

RAILWAY TO MACHU PICCHU TO BE FULLY REPAIRED BY JUNE 25TH

Fetranda (FTSA), the rail Concessionaire Company, has just announced that repairs to the railway to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu will be completely finished by June 25th. However Peru Rail (Rail Operator) has announced that they will restore the operations of the train services from Cusco to Machu Picchu on July 1st.

As it is already known, train services to Machu Picchu started to operate since March 29th (after two months of closure) from a provisional station in the small Village of Piscacucho in the Sacred Valley while main restoration works still on course on the unfinished portions of the railroad, between Piscacucho and Cusco, portions in which main damages were caused.

From June 20th to the 25th FTSA will test the road along with the rail operators in order for them to familiarize with the new railroad and guarantee the safety on the operations.

Should you need additional information regarding the reopening of the road to Machu Picchu, do not hesitate to contact us at info@condortravel.com


The Condor Travel Team

2010-06-17

STRIKE IN CUSCO EXTENDED TO AREQUIPA & PUNO

We regret to inform that the strike we previously announced for Cusco and Machu Picchu on today Thursday June 17th has extended to Arequipa and Puno, and will last 48 hours.

However, our offices just informed us that it is likely that the strike will finish today after all.

We are doing all our best to make the trips of our paxs run totally smooth and have changed the itineraries so that they do not miss the visit to Machu Picchu.

Should you need any additional information please do not hesitate to contact us or our 24 hours staff at 24horas@condortravel.com

Operations Department - 24 Hours
Tel: + 511 99350-0766 

The CONDOR TRAVEL Team

2010-06-11

STRIKE IN CUSCO ON JUNE 17TH

We regret to inform you that we have been advised that a possible strike may affect our operations in Machu Picchu and Cuzco on Thursday June 17th.

However, our offices just informed us that the services may run with total normality.

We are doing all our best to make the trips of our paxs run totally smoothly and in case any of your files may be affected, we will let you know on a separate email.

Should you need any additional information please do not hesitate to contact us or our 24 hours staff at 24horas@condortravel.com


The Condor Travel Team

2010-06-03

PROTECTING THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

The Galapagos National Park has undertaken a special process to reorganize the itineraries of all the vessels authorized to cruise the Galápagos Islands.  These regulations have as a premier objective to improve and upgrade the conservation of the designated visitors’ sites throughout the Archipelago, in order to ensure their sustainability and long-term rational and ordained use, without affecting the fragile ecosystems of the Galápagos.

The main elements involved on the aforementioned regulations are the following:

1. Effective February of 2012, all kinds of vessels operating in the Galápagos Islands, under the live-aboard modalities, will be assigned individual 15-day Itineraries.  This measure does NOT mean that passengers will only have 15 day options to visit the Islands and thus be forced to spend a full two week period there.

2. The idea is that each vessel will have a 15-day route to follow, visiting different locations (designated visitors’ sites) during that period.  However, each operator and/or boat owner will have the possibility to choose from two sets of 7-day cruises or three sets of 4 or 5-day cruises, in order to commercialize its programs, allowing for passenger arrival and departures within each 15-day cycle.

3. Another change that this measure will bring is that departure dates will vary and not necessarily follow anymore the fixed-day-of-the-week departures, in order to accommodate to the new itineraries design.

4.The National Park Service has allowed for those operators who would like to begin with this new itineraries’ system, earlier than 2012 (anytime from now until the established deadline), to do so at their convenience. 

These measures are part of an ongoing process designated to reorganize the use of the visitors’ sites; to reduce pressure on some specific over-used locations, improve the visitation of certain under-used sites and to provide visitors with a unique experience, whereby they will rarely be exposed to visiting a location crowded with tourists at one same time. 

Please take into consideration these changes when planning your tour departures for 2012. Should you require additional information please do not hesitate to request.

The Condor Travel Team

2010-05-31

TUNGURAHUA VOLCANIC ACTIVITY - ECUADOR

This past weekend the Tungurahua volcano located south east from Quito and close to the city of Baños, re-started its eruption activity. This volcano has had an eruption in progress since approximately 9 years ago; however, during the last 8 months it has had very low activity.

Nevertheless, this past weekend the volcano started an eruption sending ashes hundred of meters high into the air. The ashes have travelled south-west of Ecuador falling in the coastal cities of Machala, Guayaquil and others located in this area. The airport in Guayaquil was closed for approximately 30 hours and resumed operations on Saturday afternoon and now it is fully operating. The scheduled flights have been arriving normally and the tourist activities of the passengers that arrived at different times or days have been re-scheduled.

This eruption has affected very little the tourist activities in the area of Baños; clients with overnights scheduled in Baños have been changed to other locations as Patate, Ambato or Riobamba in order to protect the passengers travelling this area of the country.

The reports are that this has been a rather peaceful eruption and that at the moment the volcano has decreased its activity considerably. Fortunately, there has been no people injured but there has been damage to the plantations of the areas where the ashes of the volcano has fallen as well as in the areas close to the Tungurahua.

2010-05-19

FTSA ANNOUNCES THAT RESTORATION WORKS ON THE RAILWAY TO MACHU PICCHU MIGHT BE OVER BY NEXT JUNE 30TH

Ferrocarril Transandino S.A. (FTSA), the railway concession company, is still working on the reconstruction of the pending portion of the rail line, between Cusco (km.0) and Aguas Calientes (km.110).

On March 29th, FTSA finished the restoration of the railway between Piscacucho (km.82) and Aguas Calientes (km.110), bringing the possibility to restore part of the train services to Machu Picchu. 

Now FTSA have just announced the finalization of the works on the road between Poroy Station (km.18) and the station in Ollantaytambo (km.69). So, the only portion pending to be finished is the portion between Ollantaytambo and Piscacuho. FTSA trusts that the reconstruction works will be over next June 30th!

As of then, the entire railway between the city of Cusco and Aguas Calientes, will be 100% operative!

We will keep you updated.


The Condor Travel Team

2010-05-03

PERU AMONG TOP 10 TOURISM COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD

(Andina) Peru has been included as one of the top 10 best countries in the world under five tourism categories including culture, art, natural beauty, and archeology, reported Friday Peru’s Foreign Trade and Tourism Minister Martin Perez.
"There are different tourism categories including culture, art, natural beauty, archaeology, among others, and we rank among the top 10 countries in the world, no doubt this is a challenge," he said.

Peru ranks third worldwide in art and culture, and also occupies a leading position in natural beauty.

"We are among the best in the world under five separate categories," he emphasized.

Peru’s inclusion in the top 10 list was based on this year's Country Brand Index (CBI) survey, which is an in-depth study that explores the complexity, dynamics and benefits of how nations manifest as brands and identifies emerging trends in the worldwide travel and tourism industry.

The Peruvian Minister made these remarks after holding a meeting with the Peru-Spain Parliamentary Friendship League at the Congress.


The Condor Travel Team

2010-04-29

SITUATION IN RIO DE JANEIRO RETURNED TO NORMALITY

Dear friends, 

Just a short notice to inform you that the situation in Rio de Janeiro after the flooding has returned to normality and the transportation system is working properly.

The only tour that is still not running is the Corcovado.

Will keep you informed about this!

Kind regards,

The Condor Travel Team

2010-04-29

MACHU PICCHU IS READY TO BE RE-OPENED & SUSAN SARANDON MAY BE ONE OF THE FIRST TO GET THERE

Machu Picchu is ready to be reopened to the public after two months in which it remained closed due to the damages that January storms caused to the railroad. 

As we previously informed, the train is running since Monday March 29th, and the Condor Travel Team lead by our Managing Director, Sammy Niego, wanted to be the first to inspect the journey!

After this meticulous inspection we are able to confirm that everything is working well. In case you are planning to visit Machu Picchu and need specific information on the time tables please contact us.

A scheduled has been established in order to control the bus traffic on the road Ollantaytambo-Piscacucho and it will be supervised by local authorities, so safety and security are guaranteed.


Last but not least!

The Hollywood actress SUSAN SARANDON is currently visiting the Imperial city of Cuzco (she was invited by Promperu) and Condor Travel is the company in charge of handling all the services to be provided to this celebrity. Now, together with Promperu, we are proud to say that Machu Picchu is back and invite everybody to come to Peru and enjoy of the beauty of this outstanding Inca citadel.




The Condor Travel Team

2010-03-18

MACHU PICCHU AND INCA TRAIL TO REOPEN ON APRIL 1ST

Fetransa, the rail Concessionaire Company, announced that the train services will start operations next Monday, march 29th. However the National Institute of Culture ratified in an official press release that Machu Picchu will be opened to tourists by April 1st in order to take all precautionary measures to ensure the safety of visitors.

As it is already well known all trains to Machu Picchu will depart from a provisional station located on the village of Piscacucho -kilometer 82 of the rail road. Restoration works on the Cusco – Piscacucho portion or the railway are scheduled to be finished by July (subject to change due to weather conditions).

There are two companies that will operate all train services to Machu Picchu: Perurail and Inca Rail, the first company is going to start its operations on March 29th and the second is going to start on April 1st.

On a first stage, initializing on March 29th only auto wagon trains will be allowed to run on the railroad. Due to this reason the backpacker service will not be available during this first stage. The luxurious train, Hiram Bingham, will not be available during this period neither; nevertheless Perurail is defining the possibility to set a special service that would be use as an alternative to its luxury train during the second stage of this plan.

The second stage will start on May 1st (subject to change), during this stage regular carriages pulled by locomotives will be allow to run on the railway. This will enable Perurail to reactivate its backpacker service.

Finally, we just want to share with all our readers that Machu Picchu has not suffered any damage due to the rains and that during the closure period the INC undertook some necessary maintenance work on the citadel.

Should you need more information related to the reopening of Machu Picchu do not hesitate to contact us at info@condortravel.com 


The Condor Travel Team

2010-03-17

NEW UPDATE ON CHILE'S TOURISM INFRAESTRUCTURE FOLLOWING THE EARTHQUAKE

Santiago Airport

Operations have been normalized to over 80% of its capacity.
Shortly after the earthquake Santiago International Airport’s main building was carefully inspected by two different teams of structural engineers, both of which concluded that no relevant structural damage could be found to the Terminal.
All domestic flight arrivals and departures are operating out of a makeshift terminal set up in tents located to the east of the airport’s old terminal. International flight departures have temporarily moved to the domestic flights sector of the current terminal. International arriving passengers clear Chilean customs and immigration formalities in a makeshift facility set up in tents to the west of the current terminal.
All passengers should contact their airline for updated information on flight schedules and changes.

2010-03-16

LATEST NEWS REGARDING THE UPCOMING REOPENING OF MACHU PICCHU

Machu Picchu will be open to the public very soon with safe and secure railway and roads.

Commercial route to Machu Picchu:

• The route that we will use to bring tourists to Machu Picchu will be composed of two potions: a first portion by road until the provisional station at Piscacucho and from there by train to the Aguas Calienes Station.



• Situation on the first portion of the route: There already exists an asphalted road from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and it has not suffered any damages after the storms. From Ollantaytambo to Piscacuho there is a 10 km of an unpaved road which conditions are being improved to guarantee the safety and comfort of the visitors.



• Fetransa management reconfirmed that they have finished the restoration of the railway from km. 82 to km. 90, as well as the portion from km. 106 to km. 110. If the weather conditions remain good as in the past days, they will restart the operations on March 29th.

Northern Route to Machu Picchu

On the other hand there is another route to Machu Picchu known as the northern route, it goes from Ollantaytambo –asphalted road- until Alfamayo, then continues to the villages of Santa María, Santa Teresa and the Carrilluchayuc bridge to finally reach the Hydroelectric Station, from there, a 45 minutes train ride to Aguas Calientes . This route has several damages and restoration works will be completed within 3 months.

Inka Trail

The authorities are highly recommending not to take the Inca Trail just as a measure of safety and security, since some bridges may have some damages. March is a usual month of rains in the highlands and even though the INC (National Institute of Culture) is selling tickets for the Inca Trail, the rains may persist as is usual in this time of the year and cause some incidents.

Just to recall again, the archaeological site of Machu Picchu has not suffered any damage at all.

Should you need more information about the reopening of Machu Picchu please contact us at info@condortravel.com

The Condor Travel Team.

2010-04-29

MACHU PICCHU MAY BE REOPENED BY MARCH 29TH 2010

Peru Rail just announced that the next reopening of the operations on the railways between Piscacucho (km. 82) -Aguas Calientes (km. 110) could take place by next Monday March 29th, if the weather conditions in Cusco still collaborate with the works on site as it is happening as of today.

Even though Peru Rail informed some weeks ago that the operations would be reinstalled on April 1st, it seems now that the efforts of all the technicians on site to restore the railway surpassed all early expectations. By now, Peru Rail is working on a new Operations plan of their trains including safety and security policies and this will be informed to the public soon.


The Condor Travel Team

2010-03-16

UPDATE ON CHILE'S TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE

Following an update on how the country's infrastructure has been impacted following the disaster.

• The desert region in the north of Chile was not affected by the quake and has not reported any damage. 
  
  
• Easter Island, 2,300 miles from the coast, was also not affected. Initially tsunami warnings were put into effect for the island but those have since been lifted.
  
  
• Patagonia, the southernmost part of the country, was also not affected by the quake.
  
  
• Santiago & surroundings: Santiago's airport suffered structural damage to the terminal, but no damage has been reported on the runways. The airport is expected to reopen later this week. Electricity and phone lines have also been restored in Santiago and the city’s public transportation including its metro is fully operational. The cities of Valparaiso and Vina del Mar have reported damage and Vina del Mar's annual International Music Festival, which was underway, has been suspended.
  
  
• The main highway south, Ruta 5 Sur, and the main highway outside the airport in Santiago, Vespucio Norte have been damaged.
  
  
• The northern part of the Lakes and Volcanoes region is most affected. Authorities are still working on assessing the full damage. Basic essential services including water, electricity and telecommunications are gradually being restored.
  
  
• The southern part of the Lakes and Volcanoes region was not affected by the quake. Operations in popular tourist towns including Pucon, Puerto Varas and Puerto Montt are normal.

Chile is a country with a history of seismic activity. The country’s preparedness, including its strict anti-seismic building codes, the rapid emergency response from the government as well as the help from a number of organizations can be credited for managing the situation and help minimize the damage. The country’s tourism infrastructure has, overall, fared well, reporting little damage.

Our thoughts and sentiments go out to the families who have lost loved ones,” said Pablo Moll, executive director of Turismo Chile. “Chileans are a resilient people and we are hard at work to get the country back on its feet quickly. We look forward to continuing to welcome travelers and are making every effort to making them feel safe and secure.”

With best regards,

The CONDOR TRAVEL team

2010-03-01

LAN AIRLINES UPDATE ON STATUS OF FLIGHT OPERATIONS TO/FROM SANTIAGO:

Joint efforts are being undertaken with the Ministry of Public Works, the Civil Aeronautics Administration and the terminal concessionary in order to resume operations as soon as possible.

All domestic itineraries, within Chile, and International, to and from Santiago de Chile, until Thursday, March 4th, 2010 (inclusive), will be modified.

LAN will be publishing a new contingency itinerary to procect passengers with booked and issued tickets from Saturday, February 27th until Thursday, March 4th operating within Chile and international flights to and from Santiago. This new itinerary will start operating from today, Monday, March 1st, in a restricted manner and its implementation will improve as airport facilites allow it.

For more information on the new schedule visit www.lan.com


With Best Regards


The Condor Travel Team

2010-02-25

INSPECTION TO THE ROUTE OLLANTA - PISCACUCHO

Further to our latest news regarding the situation in Machu Picchu, once again we have been informed by different sources, that April 1st remains as the date for the beginning of the operations of the train from Piscacucho to Machu Picchu.

Yesterday our staff in Cuzco together with some of our drivers and adventure staff, did an inspection to the area just to take some notes about the journey and technical information that may be useful:

Departure time from Cuzco city: 7:00 am.

We took the typical route to Ollantaytambo, 1:28 hrs drive.

Passing by the ruins of Ollantaytambo, starts a narrow highway of aprox 1.2 km, after this we take again the highway for another 7 km, arriving to the via that take us to Piscacucho.From here starts a narrow road of good conditions (non asphalted)

Conclusions: 

1. The journey took 2 hours and 11 minutes with reduces traffic.



2.  Peru Rail will have available 20 vehicles for the Bimodal service, but including the private coaches we estimate a journey of 3 hours because will be more traffic.



3.  We still do not have the timetable of the train Piscacucho-Machu Picchu but we estimate the following time/distances from the hotels:
   
   

   




4. This is without taking in consideration the time our passengers need to be at the station in advance for taking the train (about 30 minutes before departure)

20 minutes from Piscacucho station, in the small village of Chilca, there is a lodge  named The Nustayoc Lodge – The Princess Site realm of the Andes, with 16 rooms (35 paxs), heating, private bathrooms, warm water, etc., that may be used for those tourists that want to avoid the long drive from Cusco to Piscacucho.
 

2010-02-19

BREAKING NEWS! ACCESS TO MACHU PICCHU AVAILABLE EFFECTIVE APRIL 1ST!

The Minister of Transportations of Peru, confirmed yesterday that effective April 1st, the access of the railway to Machu Picchu from the town of Piscacucho (km 82) will be operative.

Effective April 1st, the operations and visits to Machu Picchu will be running as usual!!!

The journey will be by bus to the km 82 of the railway (the town of Piscacucho) and from there by train to the Station of Machu Picchu Pueblo.

As inform some days ago, the archaeological site of Machu Picchu will be open to the public on April 1st as well.

The good weather conditions and the decrease of the level of the rivers helped a lot to restore the railway in due time.

Of course is still pending the railway from Cuzco to Ollanta and to Piscacucho. This may take some more weeks.

Peru Rail will publish very soon the temporary time-table of this service.


The Condor Travel Team

2010-02-17

THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CULTURE ANNOUNCED THAT MACHU PICCHU WILL BE OPEN ON APRIL 1ST

The INC (National Institute of Culture) as well as the Ministry of Tourism, have just announced that the archaeological site of Machu Picchu will be open again, effective April 1st, 2010.

This information was given by the Ministry of Tourism after seeing that the works on the railways are running as scheduled.

We certainly hope no other inconveniences arise and that the railway will be ready as programmed.


The Condor Travel Team

2010-02-16

RAILWAY RESTORATION WORKS ARE RUNNING ACCORDING TO SCHEDULE

Works on the Cuzco-Ollanta-Machu Picchu Pueblo – Hydroelectric railway keep going as scheduled. Today Fetransa (railway company) finished repairing the northern railway track between Machu Picchu Pueblo (km 110)  and the Hydroelectric (km 122).

However this portion does not yet enable visitors to reach Machu Picchu neither by the regular road nor Santa Teresa road, since the main southern portion of the railroad and the alternative route are still on restoration. More than 1,000 workers are working on the railroad between the town of Piscacucho (km.82) and the Machu Picchu station at Aguas Calientes (km.110).

More good news:

• Damages occurred between km.82 - km.84 and km. 109 – km. 110 on the railroad Ollanta - Aguas Calientes have already been repaired. The kms.107 and 90 are in process of restoration.

• If Fetransa remains like this, the full railway Ollanta-Machu Picchu will be operative in early April.

• The railway Cuzco - Puno will start again running on February 22nd!

• The Hiram Bingham will be running again in June.

Here some pictures of the road:

 
The Condor Travel Team

2010-02-12

REPORT ON THE SITUATION OF THE ROUTE CUSCO - HYDROELECTRIC

Date of travel: February 10th, 2010
Vehicle: Toyota Hiace (Diesel Motor)
Departure time: 3:00 am 

 The route is paved until the area of Alfamayo, 142 km, 4:07 hrs from Cusco. 
From Ollantaytambo  ascend until  4313 masl,  area  known  as  Abra Málaga  by  a  zigzag route where there are some landslides.  

Then, descend to the town of Alfamayo, 2250 masl, where the paved road ends. There are zones with more landslides and the driving is one-way only. 

From Alfamayo to Yanayaco Chico there is a highway in very bad conditions: 
 
From Yanayaco Chico we arrive to Santa María, where we find 2 ways to Santa Teresa, due to a big landslide on the zone, we took  an old way, so the journey became longer than expected (1 hr aprox). 

 The old route to Santa Teresa starts with a zigzag road, with cliffs.

After  taking  this  route up,  there  is a wider  road  to  reach Abra de Yanayaco, 2051 masl,  from which we start the way down to Santa Teresa, 1600 masl; in this road we can observe the new route along the river (see picture).

After arriving to Santa Teresa we continue the journey passing through the Carrilluchayoc bridge, 1km from here, aproximately, we find the last part of the raod that bring us to the Hydroelectric. 

This point is located at 15 minutes from the Hydroelectric and the Hydroelectric is 45 minutes by train from Machu Picchu (or 3 hours walking). 
 
This seems to be the biggest road destruction. However, the people in the communities told us that there are many other damages further along the road.  They were informed that fixing this road may take 55 days with the machines they have, the ones that are working already in the Hydroelectric;  property  of  the  company  Graña  y Montero  (who  are  doing  some  works  in  the hydroelectric). In this rocky mountain there is a water pipe and this may cause more difficulties in
the construction of an other highway to the hydroelectric. 


We obtained the following data on this trip: 




CONCLUSIONS: 
  

The  access  to  Machu  Picchu  by  the  Cusco-Hidroelectrica  route  in  this  moment  is inaccesible by car. It can only be done walking. 

It is a dangerous journey due to the conditions of the road (cliffs, rivers, landslides) 

The condition of the road and its mantenaince, may vary,  depending of the weather.  

If the road is improved, there would be only 2 ways to complete the journey:
o  Van
o  Sprinter 

Not recommendable via bus, due to the steep cliffs. 

The trip takes 6 Hr 30 min, 249 km just one way.

Would be very recommendable an overnight in Aguas Calientes. 

Facilities along the route: 
. Restrooms available: 
. Alfamayo.  
. Wamanmarka. 
. Medical service: 
. Huayopata.
. Kiosks and snack stores along the route. 


The Condor Travel Team

2010-02-12

OFFICE HOURS DURING THE CARNIVAL FESTIVITIES: BOLIVIA, BRAZIL & ECUADOR

Please take note of our office hours during the Carnival festivities in Bolivia, Brazil and Ecuador:

Bolivia

Monday :        February 15th  –  Closed
Tuesday :       February 16th  –  Closed

Brazil

Saturday:       February 13th  –  Open from 09:00 to 13:00 hours  
Sunday :         February 14th  –  Closed 
Monday :        February 15th  –  Open from 09:00 to 13:00 hours
Tuesday :       February 16th  –  Closed
Wednesday :  February 17th  –  Open from 12:00 to 18:00 hourS

Ecuador 

Monday :        February 15th  –  Closed
Tuesday :       February 16th  –  Open


Of course, our 24-hour operational office can not stop, and will be available on those dates. If any operational requirement or emergency should arise, the direct contacts are:

Operations Department, 24 Hours (Bolivia):  
Tel: + 59-1-7156-7287

Operations Department, 24 Hours (Brazil): 
Tel: +55-21-9470 1208 

Operations Department, 24 Hours (Ecuador):
Tel:+59-3-2924-098  /  +59-3-9-736-1872 

Operations Department, 24 Hours  (Peru): 
Office: + 511 615-3000. Ext. 251 /113 - Mobile: + 511 99350-0766
E-Mail:  24horas@condortravel.com


As usual during these kinds of festivities, some suppliers may change their operational routines, especially churches and other cultural sites. Our Sales or Operations departments will advise you about specific cases that may affect your passengers.  


The CONDOR TRAVEL Team

2010-02-11

SANTA TERESA ROUTE WILL BE READY IN TWO MONTHS

Our second expedition to the area tried to reach Aguas Calientes by the road of Santa Teresa, and again, unfortunately, they could not get further of Santa Teresa.  It was simply impossible.

Yesterday, the Ministry of Transportation, officially informed that the restoration to the road from Santa Teresa to the hydroelectric, may take longer than expected since they need to construct 2 tunnels and these works may take at least 2 months. The route is available but just for the local people who live in the area.
 
Based on this information, the conventional railway Ollanta – Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes), would be ready before the road Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric. Therefore, the activity and visits to the citadel of Machu Picchu may start again in April.

So, during February and March, there will not be access to Machu Picchu and in the meantime the ruins will be closed until the access (any of them) guarantees complete security.

The National Cultural Institute has established not to sell any Inca Trail ticket for March. All Inca Trail tickets purchased for March, will be refunded http://www.inc.gob.pe/prensa.asp?code=869

At this moment you may have already heard about the different promotions and campaigns with extraordinary rates promoting Peru without Machu Picchu,  and...... LAN has started a promotion offering one domestic flight free when flying internationally with LAN in USA and Latin America!!!

So, despite the hapless situation in Cusco, this is a good opportunity to visit Peru at a real low cost. Remember, Peru is so much more than Machu Picchu.


The Condor Travel Team

2010-02-10

NO HELICOPTER FLIGHTS TO MACHU PICCHU: WED FEBRUARY 10TH, 10:55

Yesterday the National Cultural Institute (INC) rejected the idea of operating the helicopter flights to Machu Picchu, suggestion made by some tour operators and associations in order to continue the visits to Machu Picchu.

As informed in a previous newsletter, Condor Travel did not agree on those flights, since these may cause damages on the archaeological sites, as stated by the UNESCO and other experts in this matter.

We have always believed that it is much better to preserve our cultural icon for the future generations instead of giving priority to our own benefits. Besides, there is no sense to open the archaeological site just for a few number of tourists!

The current flights operating in the area are only for the assistance of the local people (food delivery, materials, etc).

The Inca Trail remains closed all February as every year and should be open again on March 1st since the INC keeps selling tickets for the trail.

The road Cuzco – Ollantaytambo – Santa Teresa – Machu Picchu is still the only option for those paxs who still want to visit Machu Picchu in March, but as informed previously, it is a long way and takes 2 days and 1 night in Aguas Calientes, at least.

This route may work as follows:

. Ollantaytambo until the top of abra Málaga (paved): 2hrs
. Abra Malaga-Huayopata (paved): 2hrs
. Huyopata-Santa Maria (unpaved): 1 hr
. Santa Maria -  Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica (unpaved): 1hr 15 min
. Hidroeléctrica-Aguas Calientes (Train): 25 min

Total time of travel Ollanta-Aguas Calientes: 6hrs 30 min


To better visualize the route please check this map:




The panorama is quite positive as we think this “Santa Teresa” option may be operative by March 1st.

The Hiram Bingham train will not be operative until June!

If you need some photos of the actual situation of the “Santa Teresa” route, please kindly contact us and we will very happy to supply you with this information.


The Condor Travel Team!

2010-02-10

PERU IS MUCH MORE THAN MACHU PICCHU

Machu Picchu is still closed due to the flooding and mudslides from the torrential rains in January. Should you postpone your trip to Peru? No way!

Peru is much more than Machu Picchu. Whether you seek a mountain or jungle adventure, unparalleled archaeological riches, or simply want to relax on the beach or at poolside while enjoying a pisco sour along with some of the finest and freshest food you’ve ever tasted, Peru is the place to be...

Click on the link bellow to read the complete article:

Condor Travel Blog


The Condor Travel Team

2010-02-08

RESTORATION ON THE RAILROAD TO MACHU PICCHU ALREADY STARTED

Managed by Ferrocarril Transandino, concessionaire of the southern Peruvian railway system. 

.  Restoration will be performed in 03 sectors at the same time in order to re-establish the train transportation from Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley) to Machu Picchu as soon as possible.

· 03 weeks for the route Hidroelectric to Machu Picchu: to re-establish northern entrance (not an easy access because it is not a paved road, but still an option)

· 07 weeks for Piscacucho (km 82) to Machu Picchu: to re-establish southern entrance (used for regular visits)

· 08 weeks for Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu: with this we will have almost regular traffic.

· After all this work, Ferrocarril Transandino will start with the Poroy - Ollantaytambo sector which also got damaged by the rain.

· Since the Hiram Bingham coaches are placed in Poroy, this service will only be reinstalled in June.

· Probably you may be hearing that helicopters will be flying very soon, however the ruins are still closed so there is no confirmation yet that the visits can be done.

. Helicusco is the company that already has the permission for those flights however they only have 1 helicopter of 12 seats and maybe – just maybe - they will get another of 22 seats. Unfortunately, we are not very positive that the Machu Picchu ruins will open just for those few paxs able to fly in case these flights are installed.


The Condor Travel Team

2010-02-05

HOW VISITS TO MACHU PICCHU WILL BE OPERATED DURING THE RAILWAY RESTORATION WORK

The ministry of Transportation estimates that in 3 weeks, by the end of February, the restoration of the alternative road (by Santa Teresa) to Machu Picchu will be ready and the visits to the archaeological site will restart.

As informed previously, this alternative may be suitable for non conventional and adventure tourism.

Fetransa (the company in charge of the maintenance of the railroads) already started the restoration works of the conventional railway to Aguas Calientes. This will be ready by March 31st (subject to change if weather conditions do not allow it).

The restoration of the railway from the hydroelectric to Puente Ruinas (Route I) will be ready in the next 2 weeks, by the end of February.

To make it clearer, during March, if everything runs as planned, the visits to Machu Picchu could be operated the following way:

Day 01.- Pick up from hotel in Cuzco around 5:00 a.m. Drive through the Sacred Valley until Ollantaytambo, then up to Abra Málaga (4300 masl). (See the impressive Verónica mountain of  5682 masl),  Descend to the town of Santa María and continue to the town of Santa Teresa arriving aprox at 12 a.m., Lunch (picnic/lunch box). 1 hour to continue the drive to the hydroelectric and take the train (8 Km.) to Puente Ruinas in Aguas Calientes arriving at  5:00 p.m.  Due to the long day we prefer visit Mapi the next day so paxs can enjoy the facilities of the hotels.

Day 02.- Visit to the ruins of Machu Picchu. Wake up at 5:00 a.m. for breakfast and bus drive to the ruins of Machu Picchu.  2/3 hours visit. At noon return to Aguas Calientes to take the train at 1:00 p.m. to the hydroelectric (optional visit to the botanical garden or the Mandor waterfall but need to see how this places are not after the flooding) and continue by bus to Santa Teresa. 2:00 p.m. lunch, and departure at 3:00 p.m. to drive back to Cusco, arriving 10 p.m. aprox.

It is important to mention that this was the normal itinerary and scheduled before the disaster. At that time this road was terrible!  Though, we are positive that now that the government is rebuilding all the road, it will be much better than in the past (we really look forward to that!).

The timings may vary, depending on the works on the area and the weather, but as of today this would be a sample itinerary.

Is not that bad, but it is a long way from Cuzco (8 hrs aprox). We believe it is a nice experience, anyway.

Again, the touristic circuits in Cuzco and the Sacred Valley are operating normally (except the salt mines of Maras which are brown due to the rains).


The Condor Travel Team

2010-02-05

SITUATION IN CUZCO: FRIDAY FEB 5TH

Dear friends,

We would like to share with you some updated information regarding the tourist activity in the area of Machu Picchu:

APOTUR, the Peruvian Tour Operator Associations, including Condor Travel, does not support the idea of flying to Aguas Calientes by helicopter. The reason is that since several years, UNESCO does not recommend it due to the damages this may cause to the whole sanctuary and archaeological complex. Today is the moment to preserve our cultural icon for the future, instead of giving  priority in favour of our business.

We do support the idea of rebuilding immediately the road Cuzco – Santa Teresa, and not only for today, but for the future as well, in order to have a second or third access to the town of Aguas Calientes.

During February, we find  it  very difficult to restart  the tourist activity to Machu Picchu.

The National Cultural Institute, since February 1st,  has restricted the entrance to the ruins of Machu Picchu until the access to Aguas Calientes is restored.

For March,  it could be possible to restart the visits to Machu Picchu, for the non-conventional tourism, by the Santa Teresa road, with certain difficulty due to the long drive. This road should be ready in 15 days or more.

For April, is almost guaranteed that the complete tourist activity will be running with absolute normality.

All is subject to change drastically, since many of this depends on the weather conditions and the government management.

However:

The tourist services and circuits in Cuzco and the Sacred Valley are operating with total normality. Same in the rest of the country.

Peru has so much to offer besides Machu Picchu and we encourage tourists to visit our Country even without this worldwide icon.


With best regards,


The Condor Travel Team!

2010-02-05

SITUATION IN CUSCO: WEDNESDAY FEB 3RD, 12:00 HRS

Dear friends,

We would like to share with you the latest news about the visits to Machu Picchu:

In order to minimize the economical impact in the area, the government e stablished an emergency decree  that will  expedite  the restoration works on the access to the town of Aguas Calientes.

There will be 2 available routes to get into Machu Picchu and in 2 weeks  it  will be possible to go to the archaeological site of Machu Picchu!

The via that will be ready in these   2 weeks, has been called route I, and it goes through  the town of Santa Teresa and the hydroelectric.

The restoration works start today!

This route is used since several years ago by the backpackers and non conventional tourists that don’t want to use the conventional route (train) to Machu Picchu.   Approximate 100 tourists per day used that route before the disaster.

The route II (the conventional one with the railway) will be ready by  March  31st  (2 months after the disaster)

Regarding the Inca Trail:

As every year, the Inca Trail  is closed in February due to its annual maintenance.

For March, the National Institute of Culture (INC) is selling spaces normally.

The section of Ollanta - km 82, will be operative as usual . The hike will start on the km 82 and the 4th day is the visit to Machu Picchu. The way back should be by regular bus through the hydroelectric and Santa Teresa town while the restorations works on the railway are  taking place.

It will not be possible to do the full day Inca Trail since this starts in the km 104 and you need to go by train there, and there is no train until March .

Any of these alternatives need an overnight in Aguas Calientes. 


Will keep you informed in case of any latest news.


The Condor Travel team

2010-02-03

CONDOR TRAVEL SUPPORTS THE FLOOD VICTIMS IN CUSCO

With the intention of providing support to the victims of the recent floods in Cusco, Condor Travel offered its coaches at the disposal of the Cusco municipality, to bring donations to the  Communities of:

- Markjo (Province of Anta)

- Kanachimpa (Huarocondor)

- The Community of Yucacchimpa

- The Community of San Nicholas de Bari (Zurite)

- Tambocancha (Zurite)

- Erapampa (Zurite)

Clothing and food were transported, as well as money which was donated by the personnel of Condor Travel  and the company shareholders with the purpose of favouring the most needed. 
 
Condor will continue its support for the affected areas now that food, medications and construction materials are necessary for the next phase.  
 

The Condor Travel team

2011-09-22

SITUATION IN CUSCO UPDATE: TUESDAY, 2ND, 9:00 AM

With regards to the different questions and comments we have been receiving today, we would like to inform you the following:

1. The ruins of Machu Picchu remain closed because of the supervision works occurred the last days to evaluate the damages. These studies are over, however the INC (National Cultural Institute) still doe not  authorize the opening of the archaeological site.

2. The zig-zag to Machu Picchu remains close as well, and buses are not running, not just because the cleaning of the road but also because there is no tourism nor commerce at all!

3. There are no plans to operate helicopters to Machu Picchu in the next future days because the helicopter companies (any of them) have authorization to fly to Aguas Calientes nor Santa Teresa town (both the nearest towns to the ruins). Even they have it tomorrow, there is no transportation to the ruins nor ruins at all because remain closed. When this is available, the story may change.

4. Railway to Machu Picchu will be ready by March 31^st, this is the official communication from Fetransa and the government.

5. The road to the hydroelectric will be ready by next Monday together with the railway portion to Aguas Calientes, being the only access to the town and ruins of Machu Picchu.

6. Again, this road takes several hours, and is not comfortable at all for conventional tourism. However our team will be inspecting the zone to evaluate the possibilities of operating the visits through this way. By this time, the ruins and the zig-zag bus service will be working as usual.

7. The Sacred Valley and all Cusco cultural attractions are fully operative.

8. Cusco remains on State of Emergency, but please be aware this is basically a legal and administrative process to support and give facilities for the restoration of the area and has nothing to do with the normal operation of the tourism activities.

9. Our office in Aguas Calientes and our staff are in good conditions and reporting every hour about the situation there. This allows us to give you exact and responsible information of how the improvements in the area are taking place.

10. Our non profit organization Wings, is evaluating the impact of different areas and will give us the chance to support with donations to all the victims. Will keep you informed about this in case you want to support this causes as well. For more information you can visit www.condortravel.com/social-responsibility

Condor Travel regrets all the damages caused to the local people in Cusco and its properties, and bet for the immediate recovering of their economies. For this reason we will launch very soon important promotions and marketing campaigns in order to convince visitors to not cancel their trips to Peru during February and March, having the possibility of visiting Cusco without Machu Picchu and / or visiting other wonderful places in the country like the:

- Colca Canyon: The deepest Canyon in the World
- Lake Titicaca: The highest navigable lake in the world
- Amazon River: The largest river in the world by its volumetric discharge
- Nasca Lines: Unesco World Heritage 
- The incredible archaeological sites of Trujillo and Chiclayo, earlier than the Inca culture: The Lord of Sipan, The Lady of Cao, The Sun & Moon Huaca and the citadel of Chan Chan, the biggest mud citadel of the world
- Lima: and its spectacular gastronomy and unique Colonial architecture

As always, we will keep you informed of the latest news.


The Condor Travel Team

2010-02-01

SITUATION IN CUZCO

Today all the people that still remain in Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes town,  will be transferred back to Ollanta and Cuzco being the evacuation works over.

Regarding the situation of the railway and the immediate future of the visits to Machu Picchu, please note:

The archaeological site of Machu Picchu remains intact, no damage have been caused on the ruins.

The Inca Trail is closed and like every February, will keep closed until Feb 28, and probably longer depending the railway conditions to bring the people back to Ollanta and Cuzco.

The buses on the zig-zag road from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu are not working, because the road was completely slippery and with landslides in some areas.  There is no regular use since the bridge on the way can’t support any bus.  However the cleaning works are in process and the road will be clear very soon, probably just a matter of days, is not complicated and is not the first time this happens.

Yesterday Thursday the engineering department of Ferrocarril Transandino S.A. (FTSA),  inspected the 122 kilometers which compose the railway connecting Cusco and Machupicchu.

1.- Due to the strong rains occurred in the last days, the Vilcanota River incremented their volume of flow to no-registered levels (1100 m3/second, when maximum registered was 850 m3/second).

2.- The above provoked serious damages on the railroad in, at least 8 critical areas.

3.- In order to re-establish communication with Machu Picchu town by using the railroad, FTSA has determined to restore the tracks in three stages:

Hydroelectric – Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes): The work will last three weeks, to allow the visitors and residents to use bimodal transportation between the area. In order to achieve this objective it will be necessary to restore the road between Santa Teresa and Hidroeléctrica.

Piscacucho (town between Ollantaytanmbo and Hydroelectric) – Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes): The work will last seven weeks. This restoration will aloud visitors to get to Machu Picchu by using a bimodal transportation also.

Ollantaytambo – Piscacucho (town between Ollantaytanmbo and Hydroelectric): It is panned to archive this work in 8 weeks in order to res-establish the services as regularly known.

4.- It is important to mention that all working plans is subject to weather conditions.

5.- FTSA guaranties to Peruvian authorities, Machu Picchu residents, tour operators, visitors and the community, that FTSA professionals are performing their best efforts to archive the main objectives of the above working plan in order to restore the transportation facilities on the south east railway system.

That means that in the following 8 weeks there will be no train transportation to Machu Picchu.  However we are evaluating some other alternatives, like the helicopter system or another alternative routes like Santa Teresa, but we are meeting with local authorities today to see if this alternative is feasible.

Will keep you informed very soon.

The Condor Travel Team

2010-02-23

KERRI-ANNE KENNERLEY IN SOUTH AMERICA!

Australian entertainment hosts Mrs. Kerri-Anne Kennerley, was in South America as part of a 23 days journey, covering Argentina, Peru, Chile and Brazil!

The Australian Tour Operator Scenic Tours, in cooperation with Condor Travel Organization, has the opportunity to organize all the services for the TV star and the group that join her on this special tour.


With best regards,
The CONDOR TRAVEL team

2010-03-17

CONDOR TRAVEL WINS THE Q’ENTE AWARD

For being the best wholesale agency for its quality in tourism services, good practices and social and environmental responsibility Cusco,

Peru. December 15, 2009 – Hundreds of travel agencies in Cusco compete annually for the Q’ente award.

The Q´ente award, offered by the Cusco Commerce and Tourism Regional Office (Dircetur) and SGS international certifiers, is the maximum prize awarded at regional level to companies, people and organizations in the tourism industry that have the best quality in tourism services, business management, as well as social and environmental responsibility. Winners of this award are considered to be leaders in the industry and examples worth following.

The objective of this award is to promote and encourage the adoption of excellent procedures and corporate responsibility, improve the tourist experience to strengthen the Cusco brand, and reduce poverty.

We are proud to tell you that this year’s Golden Q´ente Award for the Best Wholesale Agency in Cusco went to Condor Travel!

Our General Manager, Mr. Sammy Niego, declared that, “it is gratifying to be recognized for our work but the most important thing is that we really manage to carry out our jobs with passion and total dedication. That is what makes us different “.

Mr. Jaime Carrillo, who is currently in charge of Condor Travel’s Cusco office, added that “ this distinction reinforces our leadership in the sector but also our commitment to work harder and further improve our operational standards in 2010”.

So spread the news, you are working with the best and we are striving to serve you even better.

For further information about this topic, contact us.

The Condor Travel Team