20
37 000
The trip starts in Lima today. Those on the group flights from London will arrive this evening. *Hotel El Tambo 1 (or similar)*
This morning has been left free, and in the afternoon we have a tour of colonial and modern Lima. We visit the modern residential district of Lima (Miraflores) and then explore the historic downtown area. We will discover the Plaza de Armas, Basilica Cathedral and Government Palace (also known as ‘House of Pizarro’) as we take a short walk around the colonial centre. We also visit the incredible Church of San Francisco, which houses one of the oldest libraries in the Americas and sits on top of a labyrinthine network of catacombs complete with the bones of Lima's wealthy eighteenth and nineteenth-century residents. This evening perhaps take a visit to the bohemian district of Barranco for some local food and a taste of the famous Pisco Sour, Peru’s national cocktail. *Hotel El Tambo 1 (or similar)*
We drive south from Lima today, visiting Pachacamac Fortress, the Incas' largest coastal city at the time of the conquest. We stop for a late lunch of fresh seafood at the attractive fishing village of Pucusana. A stroll around the village where the day's catch is displayed at the market and a boat ride around the bay (subject to weather conditions) offer great insight into a contemporary Peruvian coastal town. We continue southwards to the town of Paracas where we spend the night. *Hotel Gran Palma (or similar) *
A short drive from our hotel takes us to the port where we board our launch to visit the world famous Ballestas Islands, a national park which contains the highest concentration of marine birds in the world. There are sea lions and numerous species of birds on the islands themselves and we will also see the Paracas Candelabra, a curious pre-Inca design on the cliff-face, only recognisable from the sea. We drive on to Nazca in the afternoon and visit the viewing platforms close to the famous Nazca Lines. These are one of the world's great archaeological mysteries, consisting of enormous figures and patterns etched in the desert sand, best seen from the elevated position of the viewing platforms. There should also be time for optional visits to the nearby Antonini archaeological museum, a pre-Inca cemetery, or the Nazca Aqueduct, which gives an insight into the Nazca civilisation's ingenious subterranean irrigation system. *Hotel Alegria (or similar)*
Today we have a long drive (approx. 10 hrs) south through the coastal desert, with great views of the dunes and the Pacific Ocean, before heading inland into the mountains on the road to Arequipa. **Su Majestad* Hotel (or similar) *
Arequipa is a beautiful colonial city set in a fertile oasis, with many historic buildings characterised by their use of white volcanic stone from the nearby Misti, whose dramatic cone dominates the town. In the morning we visit the Cathedral, the Jesuit church of La Compañia and the huge serene convent of Santa Catalina, which retains typical features from the 16th and 17th centuries and is a peaceful refuge for the nuns who still live here today. *Su Majestad Hotel (or similar) *
A spectacular drive takes us to the Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons. On the way we pass volcanoes and will almost certainly see vicuñas in the highlands before we cross the Patapampa Pass (4910m) which marks the descent into the canyon itself. As we take the winding road to the town of Chivay, the sight of the green and fertile terraces of the canyon is a real contrast to the barren yet beautiful landscapes we have travelled through for most of the day. This is the first day where we may feel the effects of altitude – although we do not linger at the top of the pass, we spend the night at around 3600m and so it is a good idea to take it easy on arrival. *Hotel Pozo del Cielo, Chivay (or similar) *
Today we have a full day exploring the Colca Canyon, starting with a visit to the Cruz del Condor, the best place to see the mighty Andean condors as they glide on the morning thermals. We also see ancient tombs which line the cliffs on one side of the canyon, and make stops in the villages along the way which house several interesting colonial churches. Depending on time, we may take a short walk along farm tracks to learn more about the agriculture on which the whole region is dependent. After a long day of exploration, an optional visit to the hot springs near Chivay this evening is a wonderful way to relax. *Hotel Pozo del Cielo, Chivay (or similar) *
Today, we drive through the mountains to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. En route we have opportunities to see vicuñas before making a short visit to the unique burial towers (chullpas) of Sillustani. The altitude here (3800m) makes physical effort very tiring and the evenings are very cold, so taking time to rest is highly recommended. *Casona Plaza Hotel (or similar)*
We have a full day on and around Lake Titicaca today. In the morning we will visit a local market in Acora district where the local people still use a barter system to trade with those living in other areas of the high plateau. Later in the morning we will take a short walk designed to highlight the culture of the indigenous groups who inhabit the small villages alongside the lake. In the afternoon we will visit the descendants of the Uros People who live on islands of floating reeds; fishing and weaving remain key elements of their daily life and save for a few modest concessions to the modern world, they still live as their ancestors would have done centuries ago. These days, however, tourism has had a significant economic impact on their lives. *Casona Plaza Hotel (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 (approx. 10hrs), it is often spectacular. There are scheduled stops to visit some of the most interesting sites to help break up the day and appreciate the immensity of the Andean landscapes. These include La Raya Pass (4313m), the watershed and geographical dividing line between the altiplano and the Vilcanota Valley where Raqchi Inca temple is located. We arrive in Cuzco (3400m) in the evening. *Hotel Casa Andina Koricancha (or similar)*
This morning we will travel to nearby Piuray Lagoon where will spend the morning paddle-boarding surrounded by stunning scenery of mountains and terraced fields. In the afternoon we’ll enjoy a cooking class, learning all about different plants and herbs used in Peruvian cooking and how to prepare traditional food and drink. After our lesson we’ll have time to enjoy a well-deserved dinner we’ve prepared ourselves! *Meals Included -*/ breakfast/ *Casa Andina Koricancha (or similar)*
Today has been left free for exploring Cuzco, one of South America's most beautiful cities. The Plaza de Armas is a fantastic spot for people-watching, and Qorikancha – the Sun Temple, located in the Santo Domingo Church and monastery, are worth a visit. The Mercado San Pedro is the place to try some local produce and there are many handicraft markets to shop for souvenirs such as alpaca jumpers and scarves. Outside the town are more Inca ruins, notably the fortress of Sacsayhuaman where the Inca armies made their last stand against the Conquistadores. Cuzco is also the gateway to the Sacred Valley of the Incas and should you wish to visit the sites, your leader can help organise an excursion, including Pisac Market (optional). If you fancy something more active then there are an array of other optional activities available from Cuzco including mountain biking or a combination of via ferrata and zip-lining in the Sacred Valley. *Meals Included* /- breakfast/ *Casa Andina Koricancha (or similar)*
This morning, we head out of Cuzco to the colourful handicraft market at Pisac, at the entrance to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. After some free time to browse the stalls, we take a walking tour of the huge Inca ruins above the village. We enjoy a traditional 'pachamanca' lunch today, whereby the food is wrapped up and buried in the earth along with hot stones which cook it slowly. After lunch, we drive down the valley to Ollantaytambo where we visit the immense Inca fortress and explore the unique village whose streets still follow the pre-conquest grid plan. *Meals Included* - /breakfast, lunch/ *Tunupa Lodge (or similar)*
We have a free morning to explore Ollantaytambo and then make the scenic train journey through the Urubamba River Valley to Aguas Calientes (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes), arriving in the afternoon. The rest of the day has been left free to explore at your own leisure. Aguas Calientes is a bustling town with a large handicraft market (although prices here are at a premium in comparison to Pisac or Cuzco markets). There are some nearby hot springs, however they are often overcrowded and the water quality suffers as a result, therefore we don't recommend visiting them. *Meals Included* - /breakfast/ *Hotel Inti Punku El Tambo (or similar)*
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 hours 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. Please note that exploring the ruins involves a reasonable amount of walking, including up and down steep and uneven stone steps. We catch an afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo (1hr 30 mins) and continue by private bus to Cuzco (2hrs 30 mins). *Hotel Casa Andina Koricancha (or similar)*
We have a full-day tour combining the highlights in and around the city. Outside the town are Inca ruins, notably the fortress of Sacsayhuaman where the Inca armies made their last stand against the Conquistadores. In the centre, we visit the Plaza de Armas, and many examples of the famous Inca stonework like those of the Qoricancha Sun Temple located in the Santo Domingo church and Monastery. *Hotel Casa Andina Koricancha (or similar)*
We leave Cuzco early today as we take a short flight to Puerto Maldonado (please note that due to poor flight availability, on some departures this flight will connect through Lima and be considerably longer), a small town in the rainforest. On arrival, we transfer to the dock for a boat trip to our lodge in the Tambopata Reserve – this journey takes between 1½ and 3 hours depending on which lodge we stay in. On the way, we may see caimans, river turtles and waterfowl. After some time to settle in, we will take a short walk along the forest trails near the lodge to look for nocturnal animals. *Cayman Lodge Amazonia (or similar) *
Activities today will vary according to the lodge used, but will generally include a mixture of walks along the forest trails, time spent in canoes to explore rainforest lakes, and the opportunity to go high into the canopy for a completely different view of the forest. The resident guides are normally around in the evening to answer questions, and from some lodges (not all) there is the option to take a canoe out onto the river in search of caiman by torchlight. *Cayman Lodge Amazonia (or similar)*
We return to Puerto Maldonado after breakfast today and board our flight back to Lima. Those who have booked a flight inclusive package through Exodus depart Lima this evening and arrive into London the following afternoon. For land only clients, the tour ends at Lima airport. If booking an onwards flight from Lima today please ensure that it does not depart before 20:00hrs.
* 17 nights hotels and 2 nights jungle lodge, all with en suite facilities
* Group normally 5 to 16, plus leader. Min. age 16 yrs
* Spends time at altitude
* Travel by internal flight, train, boat and private bus
* Inca Trail option: no extra cost - please request on booking. 3 nights
full-service camping replaces 3 nights hotels. Additional meals included
during trek
All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 3 dinners are included in the price of the
tour. For those doing the Inca Trail (or Moonstone) trek option, all meals,
some snacks, and drinks/water are included during the trek.
Drinking water is included throughout the holiday as 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.
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 can not 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.
Dinner in Nazca is a traditional 'pachamanca' dinner, cooked on hot coals in
the ground. Where lunch and dinner is not included we'll visit a variety of
cafes and restaurants. For some of the days with long drives, we may take
some packed lunches to eat at a scenic spot along the way.
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.
* 17 nights hotels and 2 nights jungle lodge, all with en suite facilities
* Group normally 5 to 16, plus leader. Min. age 16 yrs
* Spends time at altitude
* Travel by internal flight, train, boat and private bus
* Inca Trail option: no extra cost - please request on booking. 3 nights
full-service camping replaces 3 nights hotels. Additional meals included
during trek
You should be aware that the size of Peru means that this trip involves some
long drives and early starts. The longest drive is about 10 hours. The
private buses used are comfortable and the scenery is outstanding. There will
be several stops along the way to help break up the journey.
Although the rainforest lodges we use are clean and comfortable, they are
remote and facilities are limited. In particular, you should note that
electricity is usually only provided in the main buildings, not in the
bedrooms.
Many of the Inca sites (including Machu Picchu) are built on hillsides, and
sightseeing often involves walking up and down steep streets or on uneven
steps or terraces. As such, you should have a good level of mobility and a
reasonable level of fitness.
Although graded Leisurely/Moderate (level 2), the altitude can make physical
activity feel more tiring than at sea level. As this trip spends considerable
time at altitude we ask you to refer to the Altitude Warning within the Trip
Notes for more information and advice on how to limit the effects of altitude
sickness. Although we do not linger there, the maximum altitude visited on
this trip is 4,910m (Patapampa Pass) which we drive over near Chivay, Colca
Canyon – please ensure your travel insurance covers you up to this
altitude.
Strikes are not uncommon in Peru and whilst these are generally peaceful
protests, they can result in roadblocks and disruption to travel. In this
event, your leader will amend your itinerary if necessary to minimise the
impact.
There is the option to trek the four-day classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
in place of four days of this itinerary if you wish. *You must select/request
the ‘Inca Trail trek option’ at the time of booking in order to do this.*
There are extremely stringent booking procedures in place for the Inca Trail.
A trekking permit is required and there is a daily cap on the number of these
available. Inca Trail permits sell out very quickly, especially for peak
season treks (May to August). If you wish to do the trek, we therefore
recommend booking at least 6-8 months in advance to avoid disappointment. We
will also need your full passport details (required to purchase your Inca
Trail permit) or we will be unable to process your booking.
Should you wish to trek but find that Inca Trail permits have already sold
out, we can also offer an alternative trek (not requiring a permit) in its
place – the Moonstone Trek. Please enquire for details.
No matter which option you decide on, this trip spends considerable time at
altitude. Although we have taken care to design the itinerary to allow for
gradual acclimatisation, you should be aware of this. The journey from
Puno/Lake Titicaca to Cuzco (day 11) takes us across the high altiplano and
over La Raya Pass (4313m). We also travel over Patapampa Pass (4850m) en
route to Chivay near Colca Canyon - the highest point on the tour.
*The Inca Trail trek option*
Please note that the trek itself is graded as Moderate (level 3). There are 4
days walking with full porterage, at 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 who is totally unused
to walking. If you are not a regular walker you should put in some physical
preparation before departure. It 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.
*Inca Trail Regulations*
There are a number of important regulations regarding the Inca Trail that we
would like to make you aware of:
1. Spaces on the Inca Trail are on a first come, first served basis and we
urge you to book as early as possible.
2. 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. This is an amendment
to our Booking Conditions. No transfers are possible within 8 weeks of
departure.
3. 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.
4. 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 and keep it somewhere safe.
5. Please be aware that these regulations may change at any time, and Exodus
is not responsible for the decisions made by Peruvian authorities.
6. 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.
*List of Regulations for visiting Machu Picchu:*
The main points impacting your visit are the following:
1) The tickets are valid only for one entry which means that you cannot
leave the site and re-enter.
2) 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.
3) The two visit times for visiting the site, either 6am-12pm or 12-16.30pm.
4) 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 leader
* Between 9-10am start the guided tour
* Between 11.30am-12.30pm passengers leave Machu Picchu
Hotels & Jungle Lodge (plus camping on Inca Trail option)
We spend 17 nights in hotels and 2 nights in a jungle lodge all with en-suite
facilities. For the optional Inca Trail trek, 3 nights full-service camping
replace 3 hotel nights.
The hotels normally used are indicated within the itinerary, however,
accommodation may differ from those stated depending on your departure date.
All of our hotels are clean and comfortable, and we stay in central locations
wherever possible in the towns and cities. Most hotels have a safety deposit
box in the room but if not, there will be one at reception.
Please note that central heating is very rare in Peru, even in good standard
hotels. Most hotels provide plug-in heaters and spare blankets. Additionally
whilst all of the hotels have a hot water supply, it can be temperamental
when there is high demand.
A railway line runs straight through the centre of Aguas Calientes and whilst
we try to allocate rooms away from it whenever possible, some rooms might
hear the trains.
In the rainforest, we use several 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 hours).
For those who select the Inca Trail Trek option: during the trek we spend
three nights full-service camping, meaning that our camp staff will erect and
dismantle the tents, cook, and do all camp chores for you. You need only
carry your daypack. There will also be dining and toilet tents and bowls of
warm water are provided both morning and evening for washing with.
We recommend the early booking of single supplements and of pre/post-tour
accommodation. Single rooms can be booked for an optional single supplement,
subject to availability at the time of booking (excludes two nights in the
Amazon lodge). If you are taking the Inca Trail option, this supplement
covers the cost of a single tent for the duration of the trek.
For the Inca Trail section of the trip, the main group leader will stay with
the group and an additional leader will accompany the trekkers.
All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 3 dinners are included in the price of the
tour. For those doing the Inca Trail (or Moonstone) trek option, all meals,
some snacks, and drinks/water are included during the trek.
Drinking water is included throughout the holiday as 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.
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 can not 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.
Dinner in Nazca is a traditional 'pachamanca' dinner, cooked on hot coals in
the ground. Where lunch and dinner is not included we'll visit a variety of
cafes and restaurants. For some of the days with long drives, we may take
some packed lunches to eat at a scenic spot along the way.
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.
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 three internal
flights.
Airport transfers are by private car or mini-bus. All main road journeys are
by private mini-bus or coach with heating/air-conditioning and may or may not
have a toilet onboard.
We travel by train (with Peru Rail) between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes
(the town below Machu Picchu) in Expedition Class. Seating is four seats to a
table and the carriages have panoramic windows and there is air
conditioning/heating.
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. In the Amazon we may
share boats with other guests at the lodge.
Inca Trail Option: 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: 21 Days*
The group flight from London is a daytime flight departing on Day1 of the
itinerary.
*Flights from London*
We normally use the scheduled services of British Airways or KLM Royal Dutch
Airlines (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 with a local airline.
***Travelling land only: 20 days starting and ending in Lima*
Your 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.
For land only clients, the tour ends at Lima airport on Day 20. If booking an
onwards flight from Lima on Day 22 please ensure that it does not depart
before 20:00hrs.
The cost of a taxi is likely to be about US$25 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. The coastal desert
including Lima, is generally dry but cloudy through most of the year. The
exception is January to March when the skies are clear and the temperatures
rise.
In Cuzco and the Andes, April to November is the dry season; during these
months the sky is generally bright and clear with strong sunshine in the
mornings, sometimes clouding over as the day progresses. In the Andes,
however, anything is possible at any time of year, including cloud rolling up
from the Amazon basin, rain or even snow, and rapid and unexpected changes!
During the dry season temperatures at night can dip to around the freezing
mark (and sometimes below!), particularly around Lake Titicaca. The chart
shown only shows average temperatures, daytime and night-time extremes in the
Andes, particularly in the dry season can be very different from these.
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.
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.
A day pack or other smaller holdall - you will be asked to pack a smaller
overnight bag for the trips to the jungle and Machu Picchu whilst your main
luggage will be kept in a secure location.
Water bottle
Good sturdy shoes or walking boots
Layers of warm clothing
Warm fleece jacket
Gloves
Hats (for sun protection and also for warmth)
Waterproofs
Sunglasses
High SPF sunscreen
Insect repellent
Good strength torch with spare batteries (enough for one night’s short
walk). There is only limited electricity at the lodge.
On 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. A full list of suggested items will be given to you before or on
arrival. The rest of your luggage will be stored for you until your return.
We strongly recommend storing electronics (cameras etc) in a sealed
waterproof bag to prevent damage during transport on the rivers/lakes and
during rain.
*Inca Trail Option*
In addition to the standard packing list, we recommend you take the following
if you are taking the Inca Trail (or Moonstone) trek option:
For a full Inca Trail kit list please see:
https://www.exodus.co.uk/assets/travelink/Inca_Trail_Kitlist.pdf
A"https://www.exodus.co.uk/assets/travelink/Inca_Trail_Kitlist.pdf"https:...
3 or 4 season sleeping bag
Leather or lightweight walking boots
Waterproof jacket and over trousers
2 x 1-litre water bottles (ideally metal or reusable Nalgene due to trail
restrictions)
Daypack (between 25 and 35 litres should be sufficient for trekking days)
Several layers of clothing to cope with varying temperatures during the trek
A lightweight quick-drying towel
Exodus provides (in Cuzco) a sleeping mat for the duration of the trek. The
mat is full length and approx. 4cm thick when inflated. A sleeping bag is not
included but is required for the trek - we recommend that you hire this
locally (from PEN64) through your leader in Cuzco, to save having to carry it
for the entire duration of the holiday.
*Inca Trail Baggage *
Whilst 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 the Inca Trail option, 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"mailto:datateam@exodus.co.uk"datateam
@exodus.co.uk to let us know. For full T&Cs see
https://www.exodus.co.uk/about-exodus/our-kitbags"
target="_blank"
.
As"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).
*Inca Trail Weight Restriction*
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 kgs) so as not to overladen the animals.
*Donations for porters *
The 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.
Trekking poles for the Inca Trail option and other walks (please note that
they must be fitted with plastic or rubber tips if used on the Inca Trail due
to environmental legislation). Walking poles with rubber tips can be hired
through your leader in Cuzco from PEN26 per pole. Please note that walking
poles are not permitted inside the ruins of Machu Picchu without a medical
certificate detailing their necessity.
Swimming costume (for hot springs)
Hand sanitiser
Wet wipes
A small sewing kit with safety pins
Cold water detergent or laundry soap (biodegradable)
A personal music player / books etc for the long drives
Most major currencies including Sterling, Euros and US Dollars can easily be
changed into local currency (Sol) at all bureau de change in Peru, although
US Dollars usually attract the best exchange rates. Torn, damaged or marked
foreign bills are often refused in Peru.
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 PEN50‐70 (US$15‐20) per meal not included to eat at good
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 PEN3‐5 (US$1‐2) each.
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 Holders*
Please 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.
*Optional Excursions*
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:
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.
*Nazca: Nazca Lines Scenic Flight (approx. 35 min. flight*):* From US$100
(plus PEN25 airport tax). *Please be aware that there can be up to 4hrs
waiting to board your scenic flight. Please also note that anyone over 90kg
might be charged for a second seat due to weight restrictions and
regulations. Please note that PEN is the preferred currency for this
payment.
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: 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.
*Cuzco: South Valley tour (full day – 7 hours): *From US$63 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.
*Cuzco: Stand Up Paddle (half day – 04 hours ):* From US$55 per person.
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 – 07
hours)*: From US$172 per person (based on 2 participants). Includes
private transfer, security equipment, specialized guide, box Lunch.
*Classic Rainbow Mountain (Full day – 8 hours): *From US$ 94 per person
(based on 4 participants). This famous trek takes you up to 5200 m. Rainbow
mountain is one of the most impressive geologic features in Cusco region. The
mountain is striped with colours ranging from turquoise to lavender to maroon
and gold. Price includes transportation, guide, entrance fee and 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.
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$5 (PEN 15).
*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$5 (PEN 15) per person per day, but customers are encouraged to
contribute what they feel happy giving - either less or more than the amount
suggested above.
*Trek Option:*
On the final trek morning, trekkers distribute pooled funds among guide(s),
kitchen crew and porters (or horse-wranglers on the Moonstone trek). Your
leader will suggest how this should be divided. Porters (or horse-wranglers)
also appreciate receiving donations of old clothes that are in good
condition, including children's clothes.
* *Inca Trail Trek:* In addition to the group tipping kitty, you should
budget an additional PEN160-210 (approx. US$50-65/GB£40-50) for tips for
your trekking crew. Approx. PEN200-300 of the group kitty would be an
appropriate amount for your trek leader.
* *Moonstone Trek:* In addition to the group tipping kitty, you should
budget an additional PEN140-190 (approx. US$45-60/GB£30-45) per person
for tips for your trekking support crew. Approx. PEN200-300 of the group
kitty would be an appropriate amount for your trek leader.
* Travel insurance
* Single accommodation (available on request)
* Visas or vaccinations
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.