During the years 2004 and 2005 the project concentrates on the development of the local capacities to design and manage tourism products. This part is where the ‘Experimental Tourists Groups’ are entering. The aim of the experimental hikes is to use the knowledge of the tourists to develop the capacity of the communities to manage the tourism products.

We have now the experience of one group of American tourists who walked the Inka Naani, enjoying the landscapes and visiting the communities. The aim of this project is to revaluate the cultural richness of these villages, and one way of doing that is to show some of their culture to the visitors, like dances and handicrafts for example.
Although it was a heavy experience for almost all of them, they all enjoyed being privileged to be one of the first tourists to participate in this program! Some of their quotes to express their reaction after having experienced the Inka Naani:

“I thoroughly enjoyed the scenery and being intimate with the Pachamama along the whole trek, walking the steps of the Inca, living simply.”

“The experience was wonderful.”

“I like our time in the communities when we shared with one another. I wish there had been more of this.”

“ I liked the trail itself, culturally and historically significancy, a great way to see the real Peru in all its beauty and simplicity. Meeting villagers, learning about their ways of life. Our guides, they were all wonderful.”

“Seeing the change in the land, vegetation as we moved along. The scenery is stunning and beautiful; I loved hearing the local stories about the importance of plants and topographical features. I loved hearing about the traditional Incan uses of the Nani and the ceremony we did to respect the mountains at the highest pass.”

“ I loved how the communities welcomed us, they danced and sung and shook our hands and seemed to take their work for us on with pleasure.”