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Trekking, jungle and indigenous culture - the best Peru has to offer
The group flights are scheduled to arrive this morning. Free arrival transfers are available for any flight as long as you have provided Exodus with your flight details in advance and have requested a transfer. Check-in is in the early afternoon, and the morning is free for you to explore the local area, change money or visit Lima's many museums until the rooms become available. There will be an Exodus noticeboard in the hotel reception with details of where and when the group welcome briefing will be held. Hotel El Tambo 1 (or similar)
We have an early start today for the flight via Cuzco to Puerto Maldonado, a small jungle town. After a short drive via the lodge office (where we will store our main luggage) to the river, we take a boat to our jungle lodge in the Tambopata Reserve (generally between 1½ and 3 hours depending on the lodge used). On the way we may see caimans (alligators), river turtles and a wide variety of birdlife.Our rainforest lodge is basic, but all accommodation has en suite facilities with cold showers. Electricity is by generator and only available for a few hours a day in the dining room area. Cayman Lodge (or similar)
The next two days are spent exploring the forest, rivers and lakes surrounding the lodge, on foot and in both motorised and paddle canoes. Although a lot of the wildlife tends to hide in the dense foliage, we should expect to see a wide variety of birds, including herons and egrets, jacanas, macaws and the almost prehistoric-looking hoatzin, as well as several species of monkey, reptiles and insects, and with luck the Giant otters which live in the rivers of the Amazon basin.Cayman Lodge (or similar)
A dawn start is required for the boat trip back to Puerto Maldonado, giving memorable views of the sunrise over the river. Look out for the early morning wildlife, which is particularly active at this time; Howler monkeys are frequently heard as they stake out their territories. After our flight to Cuzco, there is usually time for an afternoon orientation tour of the city. At 3400m Cuzco is an extremely high city and you may find yourself short of breath on arrival.Hotel Warari / Hotel Koyllur (or similar)
We have a free day in Cuzco today. The Inca Capital is among the most attractive cities in South America, with many interesting buildings, museums and sites. There are various optional activities that can be arranged through your leader, such as a full day tour of the Sacred Valley (including the fortresses of Pisac and Ollantaytambo) or a visit to the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, situated on a hillside above the city.You will have a full trek briefing this afternoon (usually around 6pm).Hotel Warari / Hotel Koyllur (or similar)
The Classic Inca Trail is a tangential branch part of a 45,000km road network linking the whole empire to Cuzco. It was built in the 15th Century to reach Machu Picchu but was abandoned soon after the Spanish conquest. American adventurer, Hiram Bingham travelled along the trail when he came across Machu Picchu in 1911. The trail opened to the public in 1970.We leave Cuzco early and drive for roughly two hours to Ollantaytambo; our last chance to buy any items needed for the trek. From here we veer off the road and follow a track beside the river (45 minutes) to the start of the Inca Trail at Piscacucho, commonly known as Km82. After greeting our trekking crew, we show our passports at the checkpoint and begin the Inca Trail trek. The trail runs alongside the Vilcanota River beneath the impressive snow-capped Nevado Veronica, passing through cactus gardens and fields of corn until we reach the enormous Inca ruins of Llactapata, where we continue up a side valley to camp near the hamlet of Huayllabamba.Walk Profile: approx. 11km / 6‐7hrs walkingFull-service Camping - Huayllabamba CampInca Trail - Meals Included: breakfast lunch dinner
Distance in Km: 11
Distance in Miles: 6.8
Activity Hours: 6-7
This is the longest and most strenuous day. A long climb (largely up stone staircases) takes us first through an area of cloud forest to the meadows of Llulluchapampa, then over the Warmihuañusca (Dead Woman's) pass, at 4215m the highest point on the trek. After quite a long, steep descent we camp in the scenic valley of the Pacamayo River (3600m).Walk Profile: approx. 10km / 6‐7hrs walkingFull-service Camping - Pacamayo CampInca Trail - Meals Included: breakfast lunch dinner
Distance in Km: 10
Distance in Miles: 6.2
Activity Hours: 6-7
We start the day with an easier climb which takes us past the ruins of Runquracay and over the Runquracay Pass (3930m). From now on the Inca Trail becomes a clearly defined path made of flat boulders. We pass the ruins of Sayajmarca and suddenly enter rainforest; at one point the trail passes through an Inca tunnel. We camp at a spectacular campsite on the ridge above the Inca site of Phuyupatamarca (3680m) to benefit from the views of sunset and sunrise.Walk Profile: approx. 12km / 5-6hrs walkingFull-service Camping - Phuyupatamarca CampInca Trail - Meals Included: breakfast lunch dinner
Distance in Km: 12
Distance in Miles: 7.5
Activity Hours: 5-6
From the ridge, we embark on the infamous Inca steps: a two kilometre stone staircase taking us rapidly downhill amid a panorama of overwhelming immensity, with the peaks of the Vilcabamba range above and the river thousands of metres below. After visiting the attractive ruins of Wiñay Wayna, we have an undulating walk through cloud forest high above the river to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. From here we get our first full sight of Machu Picchu itself, with Huayna Picchu rising behind.Traditionally busy with groups of trekkers clamouring for photos, we plan our arrival at Inti Punku later in the day so we can enjoy unobstructed views of the magnificent ruins. Passing around the edge of the ruins, we exit the site and descend to Aguas Calientes for a well-earned rest, a shower and a comfortable bed for the night. Our trekking permits allow us one entry into the site, which we use for our tour tomorrow, but anyone wishing to visit the citadel on both days can purchase an additional entry ticket today - your tour leader will assist with this.There is usually time for an optional visit to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes, however, in recent years they have become over-crowded and the water quality can suffer as a result. We will be reunited with those who have been on the Moonstone Trek at the hotel this afternoon.Walk Profile: approx. 9km / 6-7hrs walkingHotel Inti Punku El Tambo (or similar)Inca Trail - Meals Included: breakfast lunch
Distance in Km: 9
Distance in Miles: 5.6
Activity Hours: 6-7
In order to beat the day-trippers arriving from Cuzco and reach the ruins as early as possible, a very early start is required to queue for Machu Picchu; only government-registered buses can make the 30-minute drive up the winding road to the site entrance and during high season (May-October) queues can be long. Machu Picchu is one of the architectural and engineering marvels of the ancient world and what makes it all the more dramatic is its mountain backdrop of staggering immensity. The Spaniards never found it, the Incas left no records of it, and so Machu Picchu remained a great enigma, a city lost for centuries in the jungle until it was rediscovered in 1911 by the American historian Hiram Bingham. New regulations for visiting Machu Picchu are now fully enforced; of the three possible visiting slots, Exodus will purchase the morning slot from 06:00 until 12:00 (unless unavailable), you will be limited to a maximum of four hours within the site and must be accompanied by a guide. There will also be three set routes to follow around Machu Picchu; Exodus selects the most comprehensive route. We catch an afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo (1hr 30 mins) and continue by private bus to Cuzco (2hrs 30 mins).Hotel Warari / Hotel Koyllur (or similar)
Today we take a bus ride across the altiplano, the high plains separating the Andes from the jungles. Although it is quite a long drive (10 hours including stops), the views are spectacular. There are scheduled stops along the route to visit some of the most interesting sites which helps break up the day and we get a feel for the immensity of the Andean landscapes. A packed lunch is included today. We arrive in the evening in Puno, a high, chilly town on the shores of Lake Titicaca.Casona Plaza Hotel (or similar)
We explore Lake Titicaca, visiting the lesser-known Titinos communities who live on islands of floating reeds and produce some fine textiles. Though the altitude here (3850m) is tiring, the air is very clear and the lakeside views can be magnificent, with the snow-capped peaks of the Andes towering in the background. There is the option to go on a walk to the top of the island to watch the sunset. We spend the night on Amantani Island where we experience a homestay with the local villagers - this really allows us to see what life is like for the people in an isolated island community.Titicaca Homestay (basic accommodation)
We take a boat to Chifron Bay and spend some time exploring the peninsula before flying back to Lima (from nearby Juliaca airport). Depending on the flight taken, we may have some time free for shopping and sightseeing, including an optional visit to the Gold Museum. Flight times do vary and some groups will not arrive into Lima until late afternoon or early evening.Hotel El Tambo 1 (or similar)
The trip ends after breakfast today. Those on group flights will be transferred to the airport in the morning for the overnight flight to London.
7 nights hotels and 3 nights rainforest lodge in en suite rooms, 1 night
homestay with basic shared facilities, and 3 nights full-service camping4
days point-to-point walking with full porterageTravel by private bus, train,
boat and 3 internal flightsAltitude maximum 4215m, average 3050m7kg personal
weight limit on Inca Trail trek
All breakfasts, 9 lunches and 7 dinners included (all breakfasts, 8 lunches
and 4 dinners on One Day Inca Trail option)Peruvian cuisine has developed a
reputation for its flavours and originality and it’s well worth trying out
a few of the local delicacies. Amongst these are ceviche (a spicy dish of
seafood or fish marinated in lime juice), lomo saltado (a Peruvian take on a
beef stir-fry) and various hearty soups such as the delicious quinoa soup.
Other dishes include roasted cuy (guinea pig), alpaca steak, and to drink,
the national beverage: Pisco Sour.Hotel breakfasts are normally simple
buffet-style affairs, usually including bread/toast and jam, cereal,
sometimes eggs or a cooked dishes, sometimes fruit, tea/coffee and fruit
juice. Regrettably, we cannot guarantee that wheat/gluten-free products will
be available for breakfast in all locations - if you have an intolerance you
may wish to bring your own breakfast food.Lunches in the rainforest are
either buffet lunches or picnics, depending on the day's activities. Dinners
in the Amazon are buffet style, taken at the lodgeDuring the Inca Trail (or
Moonstone Trek) hearty breakfasts are served and good quality cooked lunches
and dinners are provided, and usually consist of soup or a starter, a main
course with meat/fish and some form of carbohydrates, followed by a dessert.
Some snacks between meals are also provided. Drinking water (boiled and
filtered) is provided in the mornings and at lunch during the trek so that
you can refill your bottles. Bed tea/coffee is brought to your tent each
morning and juice or hot drinks are provided with all meals during the
trek.Where lunch and dinner is not included we'll visit a variety of cafes
and restaurants.Drinking water is provided. The tap water in Peru is not safe
to drink; boiled and filtered drinking water is provided on the trek and
elsewhere your leader will buy large water containers for you to refill your
bottle from.
7 nights hotels and 3 nights rainforest lodge in en suite rooms, 1 night
homestay with basic shared facilities, and 3 nights full-service camping4
days point-to-point walking with full porterageTravel by private bus, train,
boat and 3 internal flightsAltitude maximum 4215m, average 3050m7kg personal
weight limit on Inca Trail trek
You should be aware that the size of Peru means that this trip involves some
long drives, particularly the one from Cuzco to Puno (around 10hrs), and you
should be prepared for this. The buses used are comfortable and the scenery
is outstanding. There will be several stops along the way to help break up
the journey.The Inca Trail is a Moderate grade trek (level 3) - please refer
to our activity level guidelines. There are four days point-to-point walking
with full porterage, reaching a maximum altitude of 4215m, average 3050m.
Though not without its difficulties (in particular the ascent and descent of
the first pass, known as Dead Woman's Pass!) this trek is certainly possible
for anyone in a good state of health and fitness, but we would not recommend
it as a beginner's trek to anyone with no previous trekking experience. If
you are not a regular walker you should put in some physical preparation
beforehand. The trek is also not particularly suitable for those with bad
knees due to the number of steep and uneven steps, particularly on the third
and fourth days of the trek.You may find our Fitness Training Guide a
useful reference.As this trip spends considerable time at altitude, we ask
you to refer to the altitude warning within the Trip Notes. We spend two days
in Cuzco (3400m) acclimatising before starting the trek.Protest
action/strikes are not uncommon in Peru, and whilst these are generally
peaceful, they can involve roadblocks and cause disruption to travel.
Occasionally your leader may have to adapt your itinerary in response to
this. Walking hours stated within the itinerary are given as approximates
only. Timings stated include lunch and photo stops and will vary depending on
the pace of your group.Inca Trail RegulationsAn Inca Trail permit is required
for this trip. There are a number of important regulations regarding the Inca
Trail that we would like to make you aware of:Spaces on the Inca Trail are on
a first come, first served basis and we urge you to book as early as
possible. If you cancel your booking more than 8 weeks before departure and
wish to transfer your deposit to another departure or another trip the
transfer fee is £150 as we will lose the permit we have purchased on your
behalf. This is an amendment to our Booking Conditions. No transfers are
possible within 8 weeks of departure. Bookings can only be made if we are
supplied with your full name, passport details, date of birth and
nationality, exactly as per the passport you will be using to travel to Peru
(this information is used to purchase your Inca Trail permit). If your
passport details do not match those on your permit you will be refused entry
to the Inca Trail by the local authorities. Should the passport used to
purchase your permit be lost, stolen or expire before your Inca Trail start
date, you must purchase a new passport and notify Exodus immediately as we
will need to apply to amend your Inca Trail permit. To do so, you must supply
copies of both your old and new passports to Exodus in advance of travel and
pay an administration fee of £25. For this reason, we strongly recommend
that you make a copy of your passport at the time of booking.Please be aware
that these regulations may change at any time, and Exodus is not responsible
for the decisions made by Peruvian authorities.There is a possibility that
the Peruvian authorities may increase the entrance fees to the Inca Trail,
Machu Picchu and other major sights at any time. If they do so, we will
inform you of this increase and the extra amount will need to be paid locally
in cash in Peru.Please Note: Whilst your departure date may be 'Guaranteed',
your Inca Trail permit itself will initially be 'On Request'. If travelling
within the current year we will try to purchase your permit immediately upon
receiving your booking. If travelling next year, we will apply for your
permit as soon as they are released for sale. In either case, in the event
that we are unable to get your permit, we will contact you to discuss your
options. Alternative Moonstone TrekOnce Inca Trail permits have sold out for
a given date, we can no longer accept bookings for the classic Inca Trail
trek. However, we can offer an equally spectacular alternative trek (not
requiring a permit) in its place. The remote high altitude Moonstone Trek
takes in a number of recently discovered Inca and pre-Inca archaeological
sites and there are practically no other tourists along the
route. (Alternatively, we have a One Day Inca Trail Option which we can
also offer in place of the Inca Trail which includes the One Day Inca Trail
as well as time in the Sacred Valley and Cuzco).If selected, the Moonstone
Trek will replace days 7 to 10 of the standard land only itinerary. The
maximum altitude on the Moonstone Trek is 4625m (higher than that of the
classic Inca Trail) and the route is slightly more strenuous. Therefore, we
class it as a Moderate/Challenging trek (level 4).Depending on the split of
the group between the Inca Trail and Moonstone Trek, you may find small group
sizes on the Moonstone Trek. It is even possible that the Moonstone trek will
be provided for solo travellers. Please ask your Sales Consultant if you
would like to know how many people are booked on each, and/or have any
specific questions or concerns.Whilst the Moonstone Trek can be selected
preferentially when Inca Trail permits are still available, a small group
supplement may apply.List of Regulations for visiting Machu Picchu:The main
points impacting your visit are the following:The tickets are valid only for
one entry which means that you cannot leave the site and re-enter.Once you
have done the chosen circuit with your guide, you cannot walk back to view
anything already visited and once you finish the circuit, you will have to
leave the site. You can no longer explore the site further after the guided
tour.The two visit times for visiting the site, either 6am-12pm or
12-16.30pm.The local authorities have restricted the temples which can
visited at Machu Picchu depending on the time of the visit to the site.These
regulations will affect how long you are able to spend at Machu Picchu and
which temples you can visit. In the past, after the guided tour passengers
could stay longer to explore the site, this is not possible anymore. The
alternative that we are implementing on our visits to allow you further time,
is to explore the upper part of Machu Picchu (Sun Gate and Inca Bridge)
before starting the guided tour. The guided tour will be about 2 hrs in
duration, and unfortunately at the end of it, you will need to exit the site.
You will be able to visit the Condor’s Temple, but not the Sun Dial Temple
or the Sun Temple on this itinerary. Schedule of visit to Machu Picchu on
this itinerary:Early bus to Machu Picchu and explore upper part with the tour
leaderBetween 9-10am start the guided tourBetween 11.30am-12.30pm passengers
leave Machu Picchu
Hotels, Lodges, Camping & HomestayThe hotels normally used are indicated within the itinerary, however,
accommodation may differ from those stated depending on your departure
date.In Cuzco we will stay at small, locally run hotels where possible, all
located in the historical centre of Cuzco, within walking distance of the
beautiful Plaza de Armas and close to restaurants and shops. The hotels
each feature cozy rooms, buffet breakfasts and free WiFi. Most hotels have
a safety deposit box in the room but if not, there will be one at the
reception.In Aguas Calientes, we stay in a centrally located hotel with
comfortable rooms, buffet breakfasts and free WiFi. Unfortunately, there is
a railway line that runs straight through the centre of Aguas Calientes and
whilst we try to allocate rooms away from it whenever possible, the trains
might be heard from some rooms.Please note that central heating is very rare
in Peru, even in good standard hotels, however, most hotels provide plug-in
heaters and spare blankets which should keep you warm. While all of the
hotels we use do have a hot water supply, it can be temperamental when there
is high demand.The Inca Trail (and Moonstone trek) is on a full-service
camping basis with full porterage, meaning that our camp staff will erect and
dismantle the tents for you, cook, and do all of the camp chores for you. You
need only carry your daypack. The tents used are 4 season Eureka tents
purchased in 2019 and there is a separate dining tent for meal times, as well
as a toilet tent for use both in camp and during lunch stops. On the Inca
Trail we stay in organised campsites which are administered by the Regional
Cultural Directorate, whilst on the Moonstone Trek we use wild campsites.On
Amantani Island on Lake Titicaca, the group will split up overnight to stay
with local families. There will be a few of us in each house and we may have
to share rooms en masse - single supplements do not apply here. The rooms are
basic but clean and your beds will have sheets and plenty of blankets. There
are outside toilets and washbasins. The lack of electricity or road noise
(there are no roads!) and the starlit sky on clear nights makes for a truly
peaceful and serene experience.In the rainforest we stay in a variety of
lodges in the Tambopata Reserve. All offer a similar standard of
accommodation and rainforest experience, and each has a network of walking
trails through the forest. The lodges are usually located between 1½ and 3½
hours by boat from Puerto Maldonado, and each has a main building surrounded
by lodge/bungalow accommodation. The rooms are usually based on two people
sharing, and all have private bathrooms with a shower, as well as individual
mosquito nets over the beds and, in some cases, mosquito screens on the
windows. There is generally no electricity in the bedrooms, and lighting is
provided by lanterns or candles. The main buildings each have a dining room
and bar, as well as a small library of books relating to the rainforest and
its flora and fauna. These are usually the only areas of the lodge with an
electrical supply (not 24 hour).Additional accommodationShould you wish to
extend your stay in Peru, Exodus can book additional nights' accommodation
prior to or after your tour in Lima. Please enquire at the time of booking.
We recommend the early booking of pre/post tour accommodation to guarantee
availability. Single SupplementSingle rooms can be booked, subject to
availability (the supplement excludes the night in the homestay).
In the Amazon we will be accompanied by local guides from the lodge. On the
Inca Trail (and Moonstone Trek) there will be a full trek crew of porters
(horses and their wranglers on the Moonstone Trek), cooks and assistant
guides.
All breakfasts, 9 lunches and 7 dinners included (all breakfasts, 8 lunches
and 4 dinners on One Day Inca Trail option)Peruvian cuisine has developed a
reputation for its flavours and originality and it’s well worth trying out
a few of the local delicacies. Amongst these are ceviche (a spicy dish of
seafood or fish marinated in lime juice), lomo saltado (a Peruvian take on a
beef stir-fry) and various hearty soups such as the delicious quinoa soup.
Other dishes include roasted cuy (guinea pig), alpaca steak, and to drink,
the national beverage: Pisco Sour.Hotel breakfasts are normally simple
buffet-style affairs, usually including bread/toast and jam, cereal,
sometimes eggs or a cooked dishes, sometimes fruit, tea/coffee and fruit
juice. Regrettably, we cannot guarantee that wheat/gluten-free products will
be available for breakfast in all locations - if you have an intolerance you
may wish to bring your own breakfast food.Lunches in the rainforest are
either buffet lunches or picnics, depending on the day's activities. Dinners
in the Amazon are buffet style, taken at the lodgeDuring the Inca Trail (or
Moonstone Trek) hearty breakfasts are served and good quality cooked lunches
and dinners are provided, and usually consist of soup or a starter, a main
course with meat/fish and some form of carbohydrates, followed by a dessert.
Some snacks between meals are also provided. Drinking water (boiled and
filtered) is provided in the mornings and at lunch during the trek so that
you can refill your bottles. Bed tea/coffee is brought to your tent each
morning and juice or hot drinks are provided with all meals during the
trek.Where lunch and dinner is not included we'll visit a variety of cafes
and restaurants.Drinking water is provided. The tap water in Peru is not safe
to drink; boiled and filtered drinking water is provided on the trek and
elsewhere your leader will buy large water containers for you to refill your
bottle from.
A variety of transport is used during this tour and vehicle types may vary
depending on group size: travel is by train, boat, bus, and 3 internal
flights.Airport transfers are by private car or mini-bus. The main road
journeys are by private mini-bus or coach with heating/air-conditioning and
may or may not have a toilet on board.In the Amazon Rainforest we may share
boats with other guests staying at the lodge.We travel by train (with Peru
Rail/Inca Rail) from Aguas Calientes (the town below Machu Picchu) to
Ollantaytambo in Expedition/Executive Class. Seating is four seats to a table
and the carriages have panoramic windows and there is air
conditioning/heating.On Day 11 (for the guided tour of Machu Picchu) we take
the public bus for the short journey between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- this is the only transport option available on this route as private
vehicles are not permitted. Queues can be very long first thing in the
morning, especially during the peak summer months.The boat on Lake Titicaca
is private to our group, and there will be a local guide from one of Lake
Titicaca’s island communities. The boat is enclosed as it can get cold at
this altitude but there large windows on all sides and an outside deck to the
rear. Life jackets are provided.This point-to-point trekking holiday requires
customers to walk between each overnight stay under their own steam. Other
forms of transport may be available along the route (horses, jeeps etc) but
Exodus is not able to take responsibility for the safety or the cost of any
transport that customers choose to take even if provided with the assistance
of our leader or staff.
Travelling flight inclusive from London: 17 daysThe group flight from London
is an overnight flight departing the day before Day 1 of the
itinerary.Flights from LondonWe normally use the scheduled services of LATAM
(depending on availability). As flight timings and schedules change regularly
we recommend you call one of our specialist sales staff or your agent to
confirm up‐to‐date timings. Please note timings may change at a later
date and cannot be confirmed until approximately two weeks before
departure.Internal flights during the trip are normally with Lan
Peru.Travelling land only: 15 days starting and ending in LimaYour trip
normally starts at our accommodation in Lima in the afternoon of Day 1 of the
itinerary Details of how to reach the start point are provided in the Final
Joining Instructions ‐ sent approximately two weeks before departure.
The cost of a taxi is likely to be about £20 or US$30 should you decide to
make your way independently.Should you decide to make your way independently
there is also an airport shuttle bus, which runs a direct service from Lima
Airport to the Miraflores District of Lima every 30-60 minutes for US$8 one
way or US$15 round trip. Tickets can be bought online or at the counter in
Lima Airport. Visit the website and select your hotel to find the nearest
stop and see a map of where it is in relation to your hotel:
https://www.airportexpresslima.com
Peru's diverse geography results in a very varied climate between different
regions.Lima falls within the coastal desert region of Peru, with a mild
climate and very little rain all year. From April to November the sky is
almost always grey and cloudy and the air humid. Average day time
temperatures in Lima remain between about 18 and 24 degrees Celsius during
this period, with July and August typically being the coolest. Nights are
also mild - typically 15-18 degrees Celsius. From December to March the skies
in Lima are clear and temperatures at their warmest but elsewhere in the
country this is the rainy season.Whilst the Amazon Rainforest is generally
warm and humid, it can be subject to drops in temperature caused by cold
fronts pushing in from the south - this can occur at any time of year but
happens most often in June and July. This can send temperatures dropping into
single figures, and we recommend that you take some warm clothing with you to
the lodge in case of sudden changes in the weather.Cuzco and the Andes have a
temperate climate. December to March is the rainy season in Cuzco/the Andes
and April to November is the dry season; characterised by clear skies and
strong sunshine in the mornings, sometimes clouding over as the day
progresses. Daytime temperatures are usually pleasant (approx. 20 degrees C
on average) but night times only 5-10 degrees C, except for May, June, July
and August when days are cooler and nights are often close to, or a few
degrees below, freezing. In the Andes, however, anything is possible at any
time of year, including cloud, rain or even snow, and rapid and unexpected
changes! Lake Titicaca is high, lying at 3,800m above sea level, and at this
altitude the sun is strong but the air can be cold, and nights can be close
to freezing. You will need to bring some warm layers and a waterproof or
wind-stopper. Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu are in the cloud forest and
as such attract large amounts of precipitation all year as clouds move up
from the Amazon Basin. Rain here can be heavy but is seldom prolonged. Cold
fronts sometimes occur from July-August.Peru is affected by the El
Niño weather phenomenon whereby warming of Pacific Ocean surface water off
South America drives a shift in the atmospheric circulation resulting in
abnormally high levels of rainfall over parts of South America. These events
occur at irregular intervals of two to seven years, and last nine months to
two years. A strong El Niño event occurred in 2014-16. In El Niño years,
temperatures in Lima can be much warmer than described above but it still
rarely rains in Lima.
For full details of what to take, please see our Inca Trail kit
list. Sleeping bag (3-4 seasons)Warm jacketLeather or lightweight walking
boots Hat and gloves Waterproof jacket and over trousers Sunglasses 2 x 1
litre water bottles Sunhat Sunscreen Daypack to carry personal items during
the daytimeThermal underwearLight-weight clothes with long sleeves and
trousers Sandals for wearing in the lodge Insect repellent Torch (head
torches are ideal)Small trek towelOn arrival at Puerto Maldonado, a small bag
(which can take between 7-8kgs) is provided in which you must pack only what
you need to take into the jungle. The rest of your luggage will be stored for
you until your return. As well as lightweight clothing, we also recommend you
take some warm clothing since the rainforest can be subject to sudden cold
snaps, especially in June and July.Exodus provides (in Cuzco) a sleeping mat
for the duration of the Inca Trail trek. The mat is full length and
approximately 4cm thick when inflated.A sleeping bag is not included but is
required for the trek - these can be hired locally through your leader in
Cuzco from US$20 (PEN82).Inca Trail Baggage & Weight RestrictionWhilst any
type of normal luggage or suitcase can be used for this holiday, a soft
kitbag or duffel bag (measuring approximately 70cms x 30cms) will need to be
used for the trek portion (since porters cannot carry hard suitcases or bags
with wheels etc.). If you book this trip, we provide an Exodus kitbag to
pack your luggage in whilst on trek. Once you have booked you will be sent
instructions on how to claim your free bag (they will not be sent out
automatically). There are also details on how to claim for another item from
the Exodus shop should you already have one of these. If you book via an
agent, it is at the agent’s discretion and you should speak directly to
them to arrange delivery. Please note that if you book less than three weeks
before the departure date we cannot guarantee that your kitbag will arrive
before your trip starts, so if this is the case please contact us
on datateam@exodus.co.uk to let us know. For full T&Cs
see www.exodus.co.uk/kitbags.As the kitbags do not have wheels, you may
prefer to pack it inside your own wheelie case for ease of travelling to, and
moving through, the airport. Your suitcase can then be left in Cuzco with
anything not needed for the trek, whilst the kitbag will be carried by your
porter on trek. If however, you can't fit the Exodus kitbag in your main
luggage (or do not receive one in time) then our local partners will provide
a soft duffel bag in Cuzco (this should be returned to your leader after the
trek).There are strict regulations regarding luggage on the Inca Trail. These
regulations are strictly enforced and were created to reduce environmental
damage to the Inca Trail and to comply with porters work laws.Porterage for
up to 7kg of personal gear is allowed on the Inca Trail trek. This is
inclusive of your sleeping bag, which usually weights approx. 1.8kg. Your
sleeping mat, however, does not count towards your personal weight limit. If
your packed duffel bag exceeds the allowed weight, you will have to transfer
excess items from your duffel bag to your daypack.The above weight
restrictions do not apply to the alternative Moonstone Trek as porterage is
by horses/mules. Nevertheless, on the Moonstone trek please try to keep your
duffel bag to a maximum of about 10kg (give or take a couple of kg) so as not
to overladen the animals.Donations for portersThe porters we work with are
mostly from rural farming communities. If you have any old walking gear you
no longer need, or any unwanted warm children’s clothing, these would be
much appreciated by the porters and their families. Please leave any
donations with your leader in Cuzco, or alternatively, you can give items
directly to your porters on the last night of the trek.
We strongly recommend taking trekking poles for the Inca Trail, as the number
of steps can be hard on the knees, but please note that due to recent
environmental legislation poles must have a plastic tip or protector fitted
on the end. Walking poles with rubber tips can be hired through your leader
in Cuzco from US$8 (PEN33) per pole. Please note that walking poles are not
permitted inside the ruins of Machu Picchu without a medical certificate
detailing their necessity.We also recommend: A small sewing kit (with safety
pins), wet wipes, cold water detergent or laundry soap (biodegradable, a
personal music player/ books / pack of cards, swimwear for hot springs.
We recommend either taking cash with you to change into Sol locally or using
local ATMs to withdraw money in Peru as you go, so you are not left with
excess at the end of your trip. It is a good idea to change a small amount
into Sol at the counters in the baggage hall upon arrival. Change is often in
short supply, so ask for small denomination banknotes and try to break up any
large notes at the earliest opportunity. It is possible to obtain Peruvian
Sol before you travel but exchange rates can be lower than exchanging money
locally in Peru. Some larger establishments and hotels accept US Dollars but
the vast majority of places will only accept Sol.Food, drinks and similar
incidentals can vary in price enormously in Peru and are relatively expensive
compared to other developing nations. Allow about US$15-20 per meal not
included to eat at tourist class restaurants. Cheaper food is abundant at
small local cafes, although sanitary conditions at these places cannot be
guaranteed. Bottled water and soft drinks are readily available for around
US$1-2 each.You may want to hire equipment for your trek in Cuzco - please
see the Packing Section for prices.Peruvian airport taxes are included in the
price of your flight ticket and there will be no need to pay these
locally.Please note that there is a possibility the Peruvian Ministry of
Tourism may increase entrance fees to archaeological sites at any time. If
this happens, we will inform you of the increase and the additional amount
will be payable locally.Peruvian passport or identity card holdersPlease note
that the cost of Exodus holidays in Peru is based on the assumption that you
do not hold a Peruvian passport or resident's card. If you are officially
resident in Peru or are a Peruvian passport holder, you will be liable to an
additional 18% tax on the majority of services, and this extra sum will be
payable locally to our local partner. Other nationalities are exempt from
this tax. Please notify us at the time of booking if you are legally resident
in Peru or hold a Peruvian passport so that we can advise you of the total
cost of these taxes.Your tour leader will be able to tell you about the full
range of optional excursions available throughout your holiday however the
most popular ones are as follows:A Partial Tourist Ticket (BTG) is required
for entrance to the sites in and around Cuzco and the Sacred Valley – this
is not included in the excursion prices below but can be purchased locally
From PEN70 (approx. US$21).Cuzco city tour and 4 ruins (half day – 5
hours): From US$48 per person (based on 4 participants), excludes BTG. This
includes visits to the nearby ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay and
Puca Pucará as well as a tour of the city itself, including the Plaza de
Armas, where the Cathedral is located, Qorikancha ‘Sun Temple’
(entrance included) and San Pedro Market.Sacred Valley tour (full day – 8
hours): From US$58 per person (based on 4 participants), excludes BTG. Drive
to the Sacred Valley, stopping at El Mirador viewpoint en route. Visit Pisac
Market and fortress and Ollantaytambo; return to Cuzco.South Valley tour
(full day – 7 hours): From US$66 per person (based on 4 participants),
excludes BTG. Visit the little-known valley to the south of Cuzco, including
the terraces at Tipon, the pre- Inca ruins of Pikillaqta and the ‘Sistine
Chapel of the Americas’ in Andahuaylillas (entrance included); return to
Cuzco.Lima city tour (half day - 3 hours): From US$44 per person (based on 4
participants). Visit ‘Pucllana Pyramid’, the colonial centre including
Lima's Plaza Mayor (Main Square), the Government Palace, the City Hall, and
other important monuments. Later, visit the Convent of San Francisco with its
catacombs (entrance included) and continue to the modern Miraflores
District.Cuzco: Stand Up Paddle (half day – 4 hours): From US$55 per
person (minimum 2 participants). Fruit, water and hot drinks included.Cuzco:
Zip-Line (full day – 8-9 hours): From US $66 per person. Includes
Transport security equipment, specialized guide, box Lunch.Cuzco: Via Ferrata
(full day – 8-9 hours): From US$66 per person. Includes Transport,
security equipment, specialized guide, box Lunch.Cuzco: Via Ferrata + Zip
line (full day – 8-9 hours): From US$100 per person. Includes Transport,
security equipment, specialized guide, box Lunch.Mountain Biking Excursion in
the Sacred Valley (full day – 7 hours): From US$172 per person (based on
2 participants). Includes private transfer, security equipment, specialized
guide, box Lunch.White Water Rafting (full day – 8 hours): From US$130
per person (minimum of 2 participants). Drive to the Chiquicahuana area of
the Southern Valley to start rafting in Vilcanota river. Spend 2-3 hours
rafting and experiencing rapids level III and III+. Finish your adventure
with a picnic lunch before heading back to Cusco. Activity available from
April-December.Prices of excursions vary depending on the number of people
taking part. The prices given within these Trip Notes are based on 4
participants and are intended as a guideline only. Actual prices will be more
for smaller group sizes and less for larger group sizes. All tours use
private transport and there will be an English-speaking guide. Please note
that cash is the preferred method of payment for any of the optional
activities. For some activities, a minimum number of participants may be
required. Some activities may not always be possible due to weather,
seasonality, national holidays, or unforeseen circumstances.
Exodus encourages customers to tip local support staff if they would like to.
In Peru, it has become customary for local staff to receive tips and these
tips can be an important source of extra income for hard-working crew.
Whether to tip and how much to tip should be a personal decision. As
customers often ask us for a suggestion of how much is appropriate for
different individuals, we have prepared some guidelines together with our
local partner - your leader will provide a handout which we hope will be
useful to your group. Please note that PEN is the preferred currency for
tips.Tipping Kitty: On this trip we recommend running a tipping kitty. A
tipping kitty means we tip as a group, and individuals don’t need to worry
about giving out small tips to various people who have helped during the trip
(i.e. drivers, local guides, boatmen, hotel staff). The contribution per
person per day we suggest is US$6 (PEN 25).Tour Leader: Leaders are fairly
paid for their role but are of course always grateful for recognition of
their skills and hard work. Tips for your leader should be based on their
performance and engagement with the group, and if you are happy with the
leader’s work, we recommend somewhere around US$6 (PEN 25) per person per
day, but customers are encouraged to contribute what they feel happy giving -
either less or more than the amount suggested above. Those on the
Moonstone Trek should deduct 4 days' worth as the Tour Leader does not
accompany you on the Moonstone Trek. Tipping of your trekking crewThe
trekking crew is made up of guides, cooks, kitchen staff, and porters (or
horsemen on the Moonstone Trek). Tips are best arranged on a group basis, and
a volunteer from the group should gather the money and split the total
collected into smaller amounts for each person. This is normally done on the
last night of the trek. Your leader will be happy to assist as needed. Inca
Trail Trek: the recommended contribution per group member is PEN160-210 (or
PEN 180-230 pp for small groups of 6 or less). Moonstone Trek: the
recommended contribution per group member is PEN140-190 (or PEN 160-210 pp
for small groups of 6 or less). Around PEN200-300 of the total collection
would normally be allocated to the Main Trek Guide.
Travel insuranceSingle accommodation (available on request), excludes
homestayVisas or vaccinationsSleeping bag (hire locally from US$20)
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.
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