Way off the beaten track, Choquequirao, the “Cradle of Gold”, is an amazingly preserved Inca outpost, comparable in size to Machu Picchu and dramatically located on a promontory nearly 1,700 m above the roaring Apurimac River.
It is only accessible by a tough trek. Our eight-day mule supported hike to Choquequirao and beyond takes in high passes, perfectly preserved Inca Trails and awesome Andean peaks, ending with a spectacular and rarely seen view of Machu Picchu and a full guided tour of these incredible ruins.
This is a long, spectacular and strenuous hike crossing the entire Vilcabamba mountain range from the Apurimac to the Urubamba watershed. It is approximately 100 km long with almost 5,000 m of both ascent and descent with passes up to 4,600 m and river crossings as low as 1,450 m.
This is your chance to be amongst one of the few adventurers to visit this incredible site and complete this rewarding trek to Machu Picchu. We end in Cusco with an extra day to relax and explore this amazing city.
Abbreviated Itinerary
DAY 1: Cusco
DAY 2: Cusco - Limatambo - Sahuite - Cachora
DAY 3: Cachora – Apurimac – Santa Rosa
DAY 4: Arrive Choquequirao
DAY 5: Explore Choquequirao
DAY 6: Choquequirao – Maizal
DAY 7: Maizal - Yanama
DAY 8: Yanama - Totora
DAY 9: Totora - Lucmabamba
DAY 10: Lucmabamba- Llactapata – Train to Machu Picchu
DAY 11: Machu Picchu
DAY 12: Cusco
DAY 13: Cusco & Home ...see full itinerary
For those short of time but still wanting an amazing wilderness hike: 6-day treks are available. Prices range from $2308 to $548 per person depending on group size. ...view more details
On arrival from your spectacular flight along the Andes to Cusco, we transfer you to your hotel and start acclimatising to the rarefied air of this beautiful city (3326m). In the afternoon, we take a short walking tour of the centre of Cusco to familiarise you with the main sights, restaurants and a chance to stretch your legs and experience hiking at 3300m. At a convenient time you guide will arrange a full briefing for the days ahead.
Day 2: Cusco – Limatambo – Sahuite – Cachora
We drive very early from Cusco visiting the ruins at Tarawasi and the incredible Inca carved boulder at Sahuite en route, boasting many animal, plant and town figures carved in it before arriving at the beautiful village of Cachora high above the River Apurimac canyon and camp just below the village with a spectacular view of snow - capped mountains in the distance. To stretch our legs if time permits we can hike the final descent into Cachora. (B/L/D)
Day 3: Cachora – Apurimac – Santa Rosa
Here we meet our trekking team and start our trek. With full mule support we descend 1600m into the Apurimac canyon, and cross the roaring river and climb up to camp at Santa Rosa. This is a long tough day requiring an early start but the scenery more than makes up for the hardships endured. (B/L/D)
Day 4: Arrive Choquequirao
Rising early we hike up out of the canyon in the morning, regaining nearly 3000m in altitude and set up base camp just short of the Choquequirao ruins. If energy and time permits we can enjoy a quick introductory tour of the ruins in the afternoon but many will prefer to have a rest and save it for the next day! (B/L/D)
Day 5: Explore Choquequirao
We arrive early at the amazing ruins of Choquequirao with time to explore and marvel at this dramatic location nearly 1700m above the roaring Apurimac River. The vastness of these extensive ruins make its area far bigger than Machu Picchu. There is an enormous curving bank of fine terracing, a chain of ritual baths and a central plaza surrounded by fine ceremonial and high status residential architecture. Large areas still remain covered in the thick cloud forest giving an insight into how the first explorer’s felt arriving at this deserted city.
Its purpose is also still largely unclear as the largest of the outlying sites it is unmentioned in the chronicles and remained uncharted until the 18th century. There are several theories including: the stone-work is that of en-slaved Chachapoyans from the North – they were supposedly more than happy to burn and leave the site on the downfall of the Incas. Another is that it would have been used a main highway look-out by the last Incas during their thirty year exiled rule in Vilcabamba: this Inca road would have connected Vilcabamba to the Central Highlands whilst by-passing the Spanish in Cusco. We return to base camp below to ponder our own theories for the evening. (B/L/D)
Day 6: Choquequirao – Maizal
Leaving at the crack of dawn, we bid farewell to Choquequirao, visiting en route another interesting ruin called Picha Unuyoc – the “water shrine”. A short, sharp climb is followed by a descent of 1400m into the Rio Blanco canyon famous for its nasty biting sand-flies called pumahuacachi by the locals- (literally “makes the puma cry”). Then another tough climb of 1200m up to the small campsite of Maizal at an altitude 3000m. This is probably the toughest day of the trip but allowing all day and using the support horses where necessary, it is manageable by fit trekkers (B/L/D)
Day 7: Maizal – Yanama
Starting early again we climb to the Abra San Juan pass at 4000m with spectacular views of the Cordillera Vilcabamba mountain range (when not in cloud), passing on route Corihuayrachina and the interesting old silver mines of Mina Victoria thought to have been worked for over a thousand years. We camp at the charming Andean village of Yanama (B/L/D)
Day 8: Yanama – Totora
We hike up the Yanama valley turning right and climb towards our final challenge - the Totora pass - our highest point of the trip at 4600m pass with hopefully spectacular views of the snow capped peak called Sacsayraoc. We camp below the pass beside the small community of Totora. (B/L/D)
Day 9: Tortora – Lucmabamba
A day of incredible changing scenery as we descend nearly 2000m to our camp beside the village of Lucmabamba, which is semi-tropical. We follow the Rio Santa Teresa down for nearly seven hours hiking but the views of waterfalls, a variety of bird life and differing vegetation make it all worthwhile and especially as Lucmabamba has a small shop selling beer and soft drinks to celebrate nearing the end of our epic journey. (B/L/D)
Day 10: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Train to Macchu Picchu
Our final day of hiking takes us through lush vegetation of coffee and tropical fruit plantations, into pristine cloud forest. We follow an ancient Inca Trail to Llactapata, an Inca site that is only recently being excavated. We will also have a truly amazing view of Machu Picchu that few tourists get to see from the back.
We descend to the Urubamba valley to the hydroelectric plant from where a short but spectacular train journey brings us to the bustling tourist town now know as Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly called Aguas Calientes). Here we check into our hotel and enjoy a shower before heading out to sample one of the many restaurants and bars. (B/L)
Day 11: Machu Picchu
First thing in the morning we catch a bus (or the energetic can hike) to Machu Picchu and have it virtually to ourselves for a full guided tour, with time afterwards to climb Huayna Picchu, walk out to the Inca bridge or else just wander through the ruins soaking up the amazing atmosphere. We return to Aguas Calientes and board the afternoon train back towards Cusco. Here our waiting bus speeds us back to our Cusco hotel. If you have the energy we can then explore Cusco’s excellent nightlife. (B)
Day 12: Cusco
There is so much to see and do in Cusco that we dedicate a whole day to doing just that. Whether your interest is exploring Inca ruins, visiting Colonial churches, bargain hunting in Indian markets or just relaxing over a cappuccino on a terrace overlooking the Plaza de Armas, Cusco has it all. (B).
Day 13: Cusco and Home
Transfer to airport in time for your internal and international flights home or join one of Excellent Extensions – Contact us for details. (B)
* Lima hotels, airport transfers, day rooms, tours and all internal flights are not included but can also be organised and quoted for on request.
* Internal Flights (Lima - Cusco - Lima) not included but can be arranged upon request: $300 per pesron (subject to change)
Request these additional services when you check availability above
What's Included
All airport transfers, transport to and from the trail in private vehicle; all camping and cooking equipment including Thermarests, spacious two person tents, dining, cook and toilet tent. Extensive First-aid kit including Oxygen; professional English and Spanish speaking guides trained in first-aid and C.P.R. Mules, cook team, entrances to Tarawasi, Sahuite, Choquequirao and Machu Picchu Inca sites. 3* hotel in Cusco and Aguas Calientes All meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
Not Included
International and internal flights, personal belongings, sleeping bag (available for rent at $10 a night), airport taxes ($6 local, $31 international), personal expenses, travel insurance and tips.
To review this trip please register or login (if already registered).
Overall Rating:
3 customer reviews
Destination:
4.7
Activity:
5.0
Equipment:
4.7
Food:
4.3
Guides & Service:
5.0
Provider Rating: 20 trip reviews
Equipment:
4.6
Food:
4.5
Guides & Service:
4.8
Social & Environmental Responsibility:
4.6
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Destination:
Equipment:
Activity:
Food:
Guides & Service:
Fantastic Adventure
by Kate, Proficient,
Jul 07, 2010
This is the kind of trip that makes me wonder why anyone would consider the traditional Inca Trail. The scenery alone is stunning, varied and dramatic-- but combined with great hiking, fascinating ruins and friendly locals . . . I don't think it gets better than this.
I admit I was worried that so many days of trekking would start to feel a bit monotonous, but that fear was quickly extinguished.
The contrast in ecology as we crossed various passes was startling. Half the day we would be trekking through cloud forest over a muddy trail and the second half of the day, we would be hiking through dry grassland on a dusty trail. While the trekking was certainly an undertaking, it was challenging but not grueling (though training is definitely necessary). It was never arduous, except that it was a long hike, so your feet naturally get a bit sore.
Everyone in our group liked the order of seeing Choquequirao before Machu Picchu. It really put Machu Picchu in context-- while Choquequirao is still in the process of being excavated, Machu Picchu is very much reconstructed-- it almost looks a little overdone in comparison. Seeing the ruins in the process of being uncovered was exciting and a complete surprise. We got to explore lots terraces with our guide that had just been cleared of brush and see the stonework as it had been left by the Incas. This also tested us physically as we had to ascend tons of steep staircases, but it was so much fun to run around this site, no one noticed they were sore until the end. I wouldn't say Machu Picchu is better than Choquequirao (or vice versa), but they are quite different and interesting in separate ways.
The locals we met along the way were so friendly and everyone wanted to chat. It was clear this place wasn't overrun with tourists; I sensed we were a bit of a curiosity rather than a nuisance.
Our guide and crew made the trip fun and easier than it probably ought to be (: Each day we were woken up with coffee/tea served at our tent, just one small detail that makes a big difference. The trip was so smooth, which is kind of unusual for such a long trek. Even with minor set-backs, the Amazonas crew made sure the group had a great experience.
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Trip of a Lifetime
by Mary Fairall, Proficient,
Jul 02, 2010
This was the trip of a lifetime for me and I found Peru to be even more amazing than I imagined. Simon and Amazonas Explorers demonstrated responsible environmental practices (tree planting campaign), instructed our group about local customs and accepted practices and treated our porters and cooks with respect and courtesy. I thought the comfort level was first class to moderate for a camping trip. Tents were sturdy, waterproof, sleeping pads were comfortable. Always had fresh water to refill water bottles. Simon solved any glitches that occured quickly and professionally. I didn't expect to be accompanied to the airport even on my return trip but Amazonas stayed with me until I got to my departure gate in Cusco. Simon was an excellent guide, knowledgeable, personable, diplomatic and expert at solving anything that came up during our trip. Our guide at Machu Picchu, Marcos, was poor.
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Great weather & Great Time
by M.J., Proficient,
Jun 21, 2010
After acclimatizing at Lake Titicaca for 4 days, were took a fantastic train to Cusco to begin our two treks - 13 days to Machu Pichu through Choquequirao, and 3 days in the Lares region. Terrain was steep and spectacular in both places, with changing climate zones over short horizontal and vertical distances. The ruins at Choq and Machu were awe-inspiring, and our guide was very informative. Days were long and hard, but the rewards were worth it - expansive alpine views from high passes to microscopic looks at jungle vegetation that closed around us at lower elevations. The crowds at Aguas were somewhat depressing, but the shower and bed rest made up for it. Our food was excellent day in and out.
All airport transfers, transport to and from the trail in private vehicle; all camping and cooking equipment including Thermarests, spacious two person tents, dining, cook and toilet tent. Extensive First-aid kit including Oxygen; professional English and Spanish speaking guides trained in first-aid and C.P.R. Mules, cook team, entrances to Tarawasi, Sahuite, Choquequirao and Machu Picchu Inca sites. 3* hotel in Cusco and Aguas Calientes All meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
Not Included
Not Included
International and internal flights, personal belongings, sleeping bag (available for rent at $10 a night), airport taxes ($6 local, $31 international), personal expenses, travel insurance and tips.
Notes
Trip Notes
• The mules carry all your heavy camping gear but this is inaccessible during the day so please bring a small day-pack to carry your personal day gear in – ie water-bottle, camera, sun-block, fleece and rain jacket.
• The price is based on twin share accommodation.
• Any excess gear may be stored in Cusco at your hotel whilst trekking. Peru Rail only allows one small overnight bag per passenger of no more than 5kg to be carried on the train.
• We have an extensive tipping document available. – If you have not received this from your agent or have misplaced your document please ask your guide for a copy to be provided from the office.
• We implement a ‘porter protection policy’ that ensures all porters are well treated, paid, insured, fed and looked after.
• Most good quality sporting equipment is unavailable in Peru so if anyone wishes to donate any outdoor clothes, sleeping bags etc they will be gratefully received by any of our staff.
• Amazonas Explorer is a member of www.onepercentfortheplanet.org. We support a local native-tree re-forestation program www.ecoanperu.org and planted 13,000 trees in 2007, 16,000 in 2008 and 10,00 in 2009. We are dedicated to reducing our ‘foot-print’ by reducing waste, sourcing produce as locally as possible, recycling and discouraging the use of plastic bottles.
• If you would like to give a donation to charity whilst in Peru, Amazonas Explorer recommends the Dental Project Peru, run by a past client of ours, Jacqui Nimmo who provides emergency dental treatment in the very poor Apurimac region. You can find out more about this excellent project and how to donate tax efficiently at www.dentalprojectperu.org.
Transportation to Trip Departure Point
Arriving to trip starting point
Transportation can be arranged either by provider or traveler
Type of transportation available to trip starting point
Commercial flight
Lodging - Accommodations
Lodging Types
4 Nights hotels 8 Nights camping
Details
Social and Environmental Responsibility
• Amazonas Explorer is a member of www.onepercentfortheplanet.org. We support a local native-tree re-forestation program www.ecoanperu.org and planted 13,000 trees in 2007, 16,000 in 2008 and 10,00 in 2009. We are dedicated to reducing our ‘foot-print’ by reducing waste, sourcing produce as locally as possible, recycling and discouraging the use of plastic bottles.
• If you would like to give a donation to charity whilst in Peru, Amazonas Explorer recommends the Dental Project Peru, run by a past client of ours, Jacqui Nimmo who provides emergency dental treatment in the very poor Apurimac region. You can find out more about this excellent project and how to donate tax efficiently at www.dentalprojectperu.org.
Provider Social and Environmental Responsibility
WHAT IS OUR "PORTER PROTECTION" POLICY?
According to Peruvian legislation the definition of a porter is "an independent worker who offers his services and who with his own body carries gear, personal equipment and other goods necessary for touristic expeditions." Each individual can establish working relationships with one or more employer, subject to the laws being obeyed by the operating company.
-The payment for porters has been established as a percentage of the UIT (an official tax code) - Amazonas Explorer pay their porters the correct amount on time for their work done in accordance with this legislation. This wage has been agreed by Amazonas Explorer and their porters and is also accepted by the Porters' union in Cusco.
-Porters are contracted by a designated Head porter and Payment is made directly by the Head guide, thus avoiding any intermediaries or other possible conflicts. Whilst the legislation is unclear at present, we pay the $10 Inca trail Porter fee and do not take it out of their wages.
-The Inca trail rules state they can not carry more than 20Kg of company equipment and 5kgs of personal equipment. We abide by this and it is enforced by the Inca trail governing body at several weigh stations on the way.
-We provide a large communal tent with carry mat floor for them to sleep in. It is not the clients' dining tent.
-We provide our porters with plenty of good food. This is not the same menu given to the passengers, but it is nutritious, abundant and what they are used to eating. They have their own cooking facilities so do not have to wait for the clients to finish eating before they get their food.
-We provide the porters with return train tickets (with designated seat allocation) from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
-We only use registered Inca trail porters (as Inca trail rules stipulate) - these have to pass several forms of ID, Character reference and a letter of good health and to have attended an Inca Trail Porter Awareness course.
-All porters work freelance and our governing body APTAE is working on providing individual cheap good insurance policies for their health care. When this is in place we will donate to this directly.
-We provide a porter uniform.
Tell me about the safety precautions and plans for this trip.
SAFETY FIRST:
We pride ourselves on our safety record and plan to maintain our claim as being the safest and best equipped team on any expedition. Whilst rafting, safety kayaks and catarafts are present wherever deemed necessary and we carry an extensive emergency first aid kit and satellite telephones on all remote expeditions.
The key to Amazonas Explorer's Safety Policy are our highly trained and superbly motivated Staff. The guides make decisions that put safety above all else. These decisions include walking around rapids, waiting out for better weather, route changes and limiting trip participation if the client is too sick to continue. We expect the clients to abide by these decisions.
River Guides
All our river guides hold the internationally recognised "Swift-water Technician" qualification. Staff training on safe river-running techniques is constantly being reviewed. All guides are deemed experienced and capable to raft at the high levels necessary on these demanding rivers. All have up to date Wilderness first aid certificates, have agreed to abide with our commitment to maximum risk reduction and are aware of emergency & evacuation procedures at any point.
Inca Trail Guides
All have the necessary Tourism University degree required to be registered Inca Trail guides. This course includes Peruvian history, languages, International tourist circuits, geography, geology, company organisation and administration. They have up to date Wilderness first aid certificates and a working knowledge of hypothermia and altitude sickness. They are aware of emergency & evacuation procedures at any point. By trekking the Inca trail in five days this ensures you never camp between the two high altitude passes where altitude sickness can take its toll. This means evacuation is a simple quick and effective operation.
Mountain Bike Guides
All have up to date Wilderness first aid certificates and are aware of emergency & evacuation procedures at any point. They have a background of biking and can fix most roadside problems. On longer endurance trips a professional bike mechanic and spare bikes are taken as an extra precaution.
Tour Conductors:
All have up to date Wilderness first aid certificates, insure the implementation of our risk assessment and reduction policy and are aware of emergency & evacuation procedures at any point.
Risk Assessment:
Amazonas Explorer has undertaken a risk assessment for all activities that we offer. Individual risk assessments per activity are available on request. Passengers should be aware they are taking part in adventurous activities in remote locations with inherent risks including possible personal injury. They should be prepared to accept such inherent risks and personal injury that may occur on a trip of this nature. A prerequisite of joining an Amazonas Explorer trip is all clients must take out personal travel insurance that will cover personal injury (including search & rescue) should any accident occur whilst partaking in an adventure, details of which must be given to their tour guide at the start of the trip.
Maximum Age
None
Travel Provider
Provider Name
Amazonas Explorer
Why should I choose this provider?
Amazonas Explorer specializes in small group fixed departure adventures in Peru and Bolivia. Whether it is Trekking, Rafting, Canoeing, Mountain biking, Cultural tours, Multi-activity, Family adventures, Exploratory expeditions or Customised adventures, here you will find the very best Alternative Adventures available in Peru and Bolivia.
Provider FAQ's
WHO TRAVELS WITH AMAZONAS EXPLORER?
From wonderfully differing backgrounds and countries, our genuinely small groups of 4 - 16 clients, typically share a passion for the outdoors, a healthy appetite for adventure and a love of the good life. No previous experience is necessary for any of our trips unless specified in the adventure
RECOMMENDED READING
The White Rock - Hugh Thomson
Running the Amazon - Joe Kane.
Exploring Cusco - Peter Frost
A Neotropical Companion -John C.Kricher (1997 [second edition] Princeton University Press)
A Guide to the Birds of Colombia - Stephen Hilty & William Brown (Princeton University Press)
Exploration Fawcett - Colonel Percy Harrison Fawcett (Century 1988)
The bridge of San Luis Rey - Thorton Wilder
Conquest of the Incas - John Hemmingway
Heart of the Amazon - Yossi Ghinsberg (Macmillan 1999)
The Inca Trail - Richard Danbury
Field guide to the birds of Machu Picchu - Barry Walker
Into the forests of the night - John Simpson
Touching the void - Joe Simson
Inca Kola - Matthew Paris
Inca Gold - Clive Cussler
Realm of the Incas - Max Milligan
Senor Vivo and the Coca Lord by Loius de Bernieres
WHAT INNOCULATIONS DO I NEED?
A doctor should always be consulted for the latest information and what is suitable for you.
Generally: Polio, Tetanus, Hepatitis A.
Jungle Areas only: Yellow fever & Malaria
Local Epidemics: Typhoid & Cholera
There is a very effective dog rabies vaccination program in Peru but if remote Mountain biking or trekking is to be undertaken Rabies vaccines should be considered. In emergencies this is available locally.
WHAT IS AN AVERAGE TREKKING DAY?
Wake up call at 0600 with a cup of tea & bowl of water for washing. You then have one hour to pack up your rucksack before breakfast at 0700. This enables the porters to take down your tents whilst you are eating.
0730 Start trekking.
1100 Snack break
1230 - 1330 Lunch break
1530 Arrival at camp. The porters will have set up camp and have hot drinks and snacks waiting.
1800 Three-course dinner & hot drinks
Trekking is at a leisurely pace with plenty of time for rests & exploring the ruins on route. This itinerary is flexible depending on the weather & group health.
WHAT IS AN AVERAGE RAFTING DAY?
0700 Wake up call and time to pack up gear & tents.
0800 Breakfast & load kit on the rafts.
0830-0900 Begin rafting
1100 Snack time
1230 - 1330 Lunch break
1530 Stop rafting & set up camp
1800 Dinner
Rafting is at the speed deemed safe by the raft guides at the water conditions at the time. Plenty if time is allowed for portaging/walking the rapids deemed to dangerous to run.
WHAT IS AN AVERAGE BIKING DAY?
0700 Wake up call and time to pack up gear & tents.
0800 Breakfast & load support truck.
0830 Begin Biking
1230 - 1330 Lunch break
1530 Stop Biking & set up camp
1800 Dinner
This itinerary is flexible depending on the weather & group health.
WHERE DO I STORE ALL MY RAFTING GEAR WHILE BIKING?
All excess gear may be stored in either the Hotels, support vehicles or in the Amazonas Explorer deposit whilst on alternative activities.
WHAT TYPE OF ACCOMMODATION SHOULD I EXPECT?
A 5* Hilton Hotel is used on arrival in Lima. All other hotels are clean and functioning 3* Hotels with laundry service, hot water & cable TV standard in Cusco, Puno & Arequipa. Further afield we use charming local hostals where standards vary but our aim is to provide a comfortable bed, clean rooms and hot water where available.
WHAT DIETARY REQUIREMENTS DO YOU PROVIDE FOR:
All dietary requirements from vegans, Lacto-allergies & general dislikes can be catered for so long as prior warning is given when booking the trip.
HOW MANY PEOPLE IN A RAFT?
We pride ourselves on our high guide to passenger staff ratio.
Optimal weather and water conditions would give 4 or 6 passengers in paddle rafts (raft size depending). We do not pack 8 people into any raft. In high water Oar frames are used for extra safety. These may have 2 or 4 passengers. Tail frames are also used to provide more safety.
WHAT WASHING / TOILET FACILLITIES ARE PROVIDED ON TRIPS?
Camping toilets & toilet tents are provided on all but the remotest expeditions.
On the rafting the river is generally used for washing and clean water supplied for drinking & teeth brushing.
On the Inca trail bowls of hot water are supplied in the morning and night. Clean hand washing water is available at all meal times.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO?
The dry season is considered April - October.
The trips in November & December are chosen with slightly wetter, warmer weather in mind.
The rainy season is considered January to March and Amazonas Explorer do not operate in these months.
However no guarantees are given for perfect weather at any time of year.
WHAT DO I DO IN MY FREE TIME IN TOWNS?
Your guides will advise you of all possible options during the trip. Cusco has an abundance of good artisan markets, local ruins, internet cafes, bars, restaurants & night-clubs. Sleeping & reading books is also popular between activities.
WHAT IS THE MINIMUM / MAXIMUM AGE?
The minimum age for the most adventure trips is 16 years. Occasionally younger clients can be taken prior previous consultation with Amazonas Explorer.
Private trips can be arranged for passengers and friends under 16 years old.
There is no maximum age limit but individuals are asked to be realistic of their capabilities when choosing an adventure trip.
Family trips are specifically aimed at 10 to 18 years olds travelling with their parents.
WHAT MEDICAL PROBLEMS ARE CONSIDRED A RISK?
Most of the adventure trips are at altitudes greater than 2,800m where altitude effects can be felt.
Altitude tends to aggravate any pre-existing medical condition. Travelers with anemia, heart conditions and high blood pressure should check with their doctors before undertaking travel at altitude.
A multi-activity adventure with no altitude involved is the Christmas TUMBES trip.
WHAT IS THE CURRENCY?
The Peruvian New Sol is the current currency. US Dollars can be used in most restaurants (at a poorer exchange rate). UK pounds and Euros are not recommended.
Current exchange rates (as of Nov 2004):
1GBP = 5.2 soles 1US$ = 3.3 Soles
WHAT MONEY CHANGING FACILLITIES ARE AVAILABLE?
All large towns and airports have ATM's that accept Credit (Visa preferred) & normal bank cards (Connect, Cirrus).
Banks will accept paper credit card withdrawals - but the hours and queues are annoyingly unsociable.
Money changing houses are available in all towns. US Dollars are the preferred currency; GB Sterling is not widely accepted.
Out of towns try to have as many small coins & notes as possible as change is not widely available.
WHAT LANGUAGES ARE SPOKEN IN PERU?
The official language is Spanish.
Quechua, the language of the Incas, has finally received some official status and is widely used in the mountains. Aymara is the language of the mountain people of Lake Titicaca and Bolivia.
The jungle tribes have their own dialects.
English is not widely spoken outside the tourist industry & the normal tourist routes.
WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL & NATIONAL FLIGHT BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE?
International flight allowances vary between 20Kg and 64Kg - please check with your ticket agent.
National flights generally have baggage weight restrictions of between 20-30Kg per passenger. Passengers are responsible for their own excess baggage charges. These are currently $2.50 per Kilogram. We always try to book the most lenient airline for passengers travelling with bikes or extra baggage if notified at the time of booking. Hand luggage is also strictly controlled and must not weigh more than 5 Kg nor be much bigger than a small day-pack. Security is tight in the airports so remember to pack any pocket-knives and sharp objects (tools for example in your check-in luggage)
WHAT ELECTRICITY SUPPLY IS THERE?
220V, 60Hz, American Style two-pin plugs
WHAT SHOULD I TIP IN PERU?
Generally in restaurants you only tip if the service is good up to 10% of the cost of the meal.
Hotel porters may receive a tip again if you believe they have provided a good service.
Street children & other beggars in the country. We believe in paying only for services rendered, helping with water bottles, directions or posing for photographs. There are some ladies in Cusco whose occupation is posing for photographs in full traditional costume with Llamas, this is their livelihood and payment is required for photographs.
A rough tip system has been set for the guides & porters. This varies with service, length of trip & size of group.
Drivers / Porters $10-$15
Head porter/ toilet carrier / Assistant cook $20
Day guides for Biking, Rafting & Cultural tours $20
Head cook $40-$50
Inca Trail / Raft Guide / Bike guide /Tour Conductor $60-$100
Most good sporting equipment is unavailable in Peru. Equipment given in lieu of a cash tip is very much appreciated.
HOW CAN I STAY IN TOUCH WITH HOME?
The office may be contacted directly in case of emergencies. There are numerous Internet cafes in Cusco for e-mailing home, direct dial phone cards are widely available and telephone calls can be made from most hotels. Tri-band cellular phones also work in the major cities. On remote expeditions we carry a satellite phone but this is exclusively for emergency use.
HOW SAFE IS PERU?
Petty theft is wide-spread with thieves being quick & clever, most of the time people are unaware they have been robbed until later. Being vigilant with possessions, use a money belt and not carrying expensive items of value late at night and in busy markets and stations avoids most losses. At night in towns the normal street rules apply so do not walk alone, but take one of the many cheap official taxis. On the whole Peru is still safer than most European cities.
Provider Policies
Terms and Conditions
Terms, Conditions
The Small Print
Amazonas Explorer trips travel through remote and rarely visited parts of Peru and we believe our clients should be aware that the remoteness that makes these trips so very special could also cause certain problems. Thus, whilst Amazonas Explorer endeavours to minimise the chances of anything unexpected happening, it has to be noted that no itinerary can or should be rigidly adhered to. This is the very nature of Adventure Travel and we expect our clients to be prepared for delays and slight alterations in our programmed events. At certain times of the year this trip may be run with the activities (walking, trekking the Inca trail, mountain biking, rafting and jungle) taking place in a slightly different order to those indicated here. This is to best suit the climate, take in any local fiestas or due to availability of permits for the Inca Trail.
In all cases we will advise you of any changes in the itinerary as early as possible. We have taken all these possibilities into account when planning this expedition and have allowed sufficient leeway to enable us to successfully run this exceptional trip. You should also be aware that adventure travel, in particular trekking, white-water rafting, inflatable canoeing, mountain biking and travelling in remote areas such as Southern Peru, does carry with it certain inherent risks that you, the client, will have to assume. You will have to take out an adequate travel insurance to cover these risks. National flight time tables are also subjected to local weather conditions. Please ensure your travel insurance covers any cost incurred due to delayed and cancelled flights. Excess baggage is also at the client's expense. A pre-departure meeting will be held on arrival in Cusco. It is highly recommended you attend. All clients will be asked to sign a release and waiver form and must provide a photocopy of their passport, Peru entry stamp and details of their travel insurance.
Cancellation Policies
1. We will invoice you eight weeks prior to departure.
2. Full payment is required six weeks prior to trip departure unless previously negotiated credit terms with Amazonas Explorer.
If the trip is canceled we reserve the right to charge:
(A) A $200 or 20% non-refundable deposit. This covers the cost of Inca Trail clients’ and porters’ permits purchased on client’s behalf.
(B) 44-15 days prior to departure we charge 50% of trip price.
(C) 14 days or less we charge 100% or trip cost.
In exceptional circumstances and entirely at our discretion, we can offer up to 50% off an advance towards a future Amazonas Explorer fixed departure trip.
INCA TRAIL SPECIFIC TRIPS:
The purchase of Inca Trail permits is strictly controlled by the Peruvian Institute of Culture (INC). There are only 500 permits for guides, porters and trekkers per day. This has led to very competitive demand with permits often being sold out three months in advance.
With regard any trip that involves trekking the Inca Trail, we are therefore introducing the following booking conditions.
1: Space on the trip cannot be confirmed until:
A): Full client information (Full name, Passport number, Nationality and Date of Birth) are sent to us in order to purchase your Inca trail permit.
B): Amazonas Explorer has confirmed that an Inca Trail permit is available for the trip of your choice.
C) The USD $200 non-refundable deposit has been paid.
2: Clients must bring with them the passport with which the permit was issued – ie the passport number that was provided us with at time of booking – otherwise entry to the Inca Trail will not be permitted.
3: Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and local ruins entrance fees for 2010 have not yet been confirmed and should there be a significant increase, Amazonas Explorer will not be able to assume this extra cost and the extra will it have to be passed onto the clients
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TESTIMONIALS
I would recommend this trip to a friend in a second. The trip to the Galapagos was Outstanding. The Letty was wonderful; the naturalists were the greatest; the food was superb; the crew excellent; (I\'m running out of adjectives) I would recommend the whole thing and your agency also. You really provided excellent service and information. I felt I could email or call you with any questions and I knew you would answer quickly and I felt honestly. For just taking a chance finding you on the internet, I was very fortunate.
-- Joyce P, Galapagos Islands on the Eric, Letty, Flamingo I
The Inca trail trek can only be described as magical. I tried my best to be cynical, but it didn’t work. This trip was pure magic and absolutely perfect.
The logistics of the trip were impeccable. The ground transportation was on time and they made sure I was able to obtain my boarding pass and pay the airport tax at each leg of the trip.
Out on the hike, my guide Oswaldo was fabulous.
The food on the trail was amazing. The chef created simple and fresh meals that were bursting with local flavor.
-- Terry B, Inca Trail 5-day with Andean Adventures
Just returned from Costa Rica last night ... trip was a GREAT SUCCESS! We all thank you VERY MUCH for arranging the trip.
-- Bob Fenchel, Custom Costa Rica with Camino Travel
We’ve been home just over a week now and I just wanted to send you a quick note to let you just how fantastically well everything went! Ok, so we did end up paying the full whack (which I’ve decided just not to think about!). However, we had a fantastic guide and everything ran really smoothly and we had a fantastic time. From being collected from the hotel (Vieja Cuba which was lovely) to being looked after once we got to the Galapagos it was all just perfect, so thank you very much for being an important part of our fabulous trip.
Cheers Greg !
-- Marayka K., Galapagos Multisport 7-Day Adventure
Detour, The Adventure Travel Marketplace - Choquequirao: Trek the Andes, 13 Days
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