Guide to the Sky Lodge & Via Ferrata: Tips from the Owners
As expected, Peru has many things to offer, a vast majority are centered in Cusco. Cusco and the Sacred Valley have an abundance of history and natural wonders. There is no shortage of things to do, like archeology wherever you look, beautiful old churches, museums, green and abundant valleys, hiking trails, horseback riding, and even the magnificent Sky Lodge.
Apart from the many archeological sites; have you ever imagined sleeping hanging from the top of a mountain, in a condor’s nest? The Sacred Valley Sky Lodges are transparent luxury capsules that hangs from a mountain in the Sacred Valley. Okay, so its not really a Condor’s nest but you get the point.
Sacred Valley Sky Lodge
Located in the Sacred Valley of the Cuzco region, the exclusive Sky Lodge Adventure Suites offers you the chance to sleep within a completely transparent hanging bedroom, that allows you to appreciate the impressive views of this magic and mystic valley.
To sleep at Sky Lodge, people must climb 400 Mt. of Via Ferrata or hike an intrepid trail through zip lines. Packages include breakfast & a gourmet dinner with wine.
It is composed of three exclusive capsule Suites with a total capacity of 8 people. The vertically hanging transparent capsule suites are situated at the top of a 1200 ft mountain with a 300-degree view of the majestic Sacred Valley. Handcrafted out of aerospace aluminum and weather resistant polycarbonate, each suite comes complete with four beds, a dining area and a private bathroom.
Measuring 24 ft. in length and 8 ft. in height and width, the capsule suites are composed of six windows and four ventilation ducts that ensure a comfortable atmosphere. Safety is insured by having the exit portal located in the upper part of the craft.
The design and features of each suite provides our clients with first class service and complete comfort. Our alternative lighting system consists of four interior lamps and a reading light, all powered by solar panels that store energy in batteries. Each suite has a private bathroom separated from the bedroom by an insulated wall. Inside is a dry ecological toilet and sink, where you can still enjoy the gorgeous views through the 1.8-meter diameter dome. The dome also has curtains for privacy from the curious gaze of passing condors (your sky neighbors). Fine quality mattresses, cotton sheets, pillows, and quilts ensure a warm and pleasant night 400 meters from the ground.
The Via Ferrata
The Via Ferrata is a path used to climb the mountain with a safety system permanently installed. It allows people with no climbing experience the opportunity to climb to the capsules and enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery.
The climber is permanently tied to a steel cable that runs through the entire route. Usually does not require any climbing rope. Metal ladders, bridges and similar facilities are used. This helps maintain the physical difficulty of the climb while providing access to very high, and extremely vertical sections of the mountain, that would normally only be accessible to experienced rock climbers. You can try 300 meters climbing and 100 meters rappel or the combined tour Via ferrata & Zip-line.
Requirements
Anyone who is in good health and physical condition is able to climb the via ferrata. Maximum weight of 265 lbs (120 kg) to safely climb the via ferrata. The minimum age to climb the Sacred Valley via ferrata is 8 years old. Without exception, the via ferrata climbers must always be accompanied by a guide.
The equipment used allows one to remain tied to a “lifeline”, in this case a steel cable. Through the via ferrata lanyard the person can go up, securing himself with carabineers. If a fall occurs, the person will remain tied to the “lifeline” without any risk. All our guides are mountain guides trained in vertical rescue.
Use light clothing and good shoes (tennis, light hiking boots, etc. No sandals). Note that as you ascend the weather will be colder and more windy, you can carry extra clothing in a small backpack. Bring at least 1 lt of water. You can bring your empty bottle; we do have purified water at our base, so you can refill it at the beginning and at the end of the activity. Eco-friendly Attitude; please recycle bottles, we provide the water you bring the bottle.
The ascent and descent of the route will last between 3-4 hours in accordance with the pace of the group.