Julio Zuniga Medina and Durby Castillo
The view of the verdant and lush Majes River Valley conflicts with the surrounding high desert of the surrounding canyon walls. Yet, deep within this lush landscape is a multi-faceted treasure - Julio Zuniga Medina, Durby Castillo, and the Majes River Lodge.
In 1997, a good friend of Tammy Leland suggested a visit to Julio and Durby's place in the Majes Valley when she was visiting Lake Titicaca. After hours on a Peruvian "chicken bus," Tammy arrived and introduced herself to the unsuspecting couple. Over the course of excellent food, pisco sours, story-telling, and exploration through the Majes Valley, these three became fast friends and family - plotting ways to bring people to this magical place.
Julio Zuniga, our remarkable Peruvian grandfather known not only for his legendary career as a matador but also as a skilled Pisco maker and an intrepid explorer with an adventurous spirit. His life story is a fascinating journey through the enchanting Peruvian valleys, where ancient tombs hold the secrets of bygone civilizations, and over 5,000 petroglyphs adorn the rugged landscapes, sharing their ancient tales.
Fast forward to now, and several hundred Crooked Trails clients later, the Majes River Lodge holds a dear place in the hearts of many. Adventures are abundant with Julio at the helm! Between white water rafting, hiking through the petroglyphs of Toros Muertos, exploring tombs of ancient Wari tribes, tasting pisco at the plethora of distilleries (and Julios!), and tasting hand-made cookies and pastries at Consuela's in Huancarqu, there isn't a moment to be bored in Majes.
Here, you'll also find the footprints of dinosaurs, a testament to the valley's rich geological history. But that’s not all – this valley is steeped in history and shrouded in mysticism. Witches' lore and legends add an extra layer of enchantment to this already magical place, making it a destination that captivates the hearts and imaginations of all who venture here.
Years earlier, Julio retired from being a decorated matador, and since he has retired from guiding rivers. But there's a new way to float the Majes! Innertubes! See the story in this newsletter about the first descent of the Majes River in these hardy tubes, and get excited for your own white water adventure through the Valley!
The humble Majes River Lodge offers a refreshing pool, bullfighting and Wari artifact museum, Pisco distillery and bodega, a chapel, and an authentic bullfighting ring! Adventure awaits, and there's plenty of room for everybody. Julio and Durby would love to host you and your family any time of the year!
CONTACT INFO
Julio Zuniga Medina and Durby Castillo - Owners of the Majes River Lodge
WhatsApp +51 935 247 134 | majesriver@gmail.com
Top photo: Durby and Julio. Photo credit: Tammy Leland
Bottom: Verdant Majes Valley surrounded by high desert. Photo credit: Kris Parfitt
