The second trek on Salkantay would take us to the pass just above 15,000 feet. It required a five hour car shuttle through beautiful mountain scenery then up through the lofty town of Mollepata at about 3000 meters. We would pass through the town and continue to the end of the road at Soray Pampa 12,700 ft. Juan thought if we could hike two hours before camping, we would have the pass to ourselves.
I forgot to mention that on the Cachiccata Trek there were no other trekkers. It was amazing.
As our new arrieros, Francisco and Jesus, loaded the horses, the overcast skies parted and delivered an incredible view of Mt. Salkantay. I took as many pictures as possible realizing that traveling during this later season, the rain could settle in at any time. We were sheltered as the rain really started to pour. About thirty minutes later we donned our ponchos and rain gear and started out for Salkentay Pampa, 12,700 ft. The rain subsided and our walk was beautiful. In no time we had our tents up and Augusto was fixing a wonderful dinner.
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
1 day ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.