Huge descents, monster climbs, incredible single track and breath-taking scenery - This is by far one of the world's best biking trips ever!
The former Inca Capital and Spanish colonial city of Cusco is our base for this "Best of Peru" biking extravaganza. Cusco is a wonderful place full of culture, history, good restaurants and fun nightlife and the mountain biking is "out of this world" on a mix of dirt roads, mule trails and ancient Inca Trail single tracks.
The itinerary has been designed and improved over many years to put together a real biking trip for keen bikers. It caters to all tastes with multiple options to cycle on dirt trails or single tracks, to attempt huge climbs and monster down hills, all at the same time experiencing the very best of the Andean culture and scenery.
We travel from the Andes to the Amazon, experience a great sunrise over the jungle, cycle through rarely visited valleys and enjoy awesome hotsprings. We ride on original Inca trails to incredible ruins, perched high above the Sacred Valley and enjoy unbelievable downhills on smooth mule trails, past an amazing saltmine, staying in charming hostals, with the occasional night camping, before catching the train to visit the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, and then returning to Cusco for any last minute shopping.
Highlights
One of the world's best biking trips!
Huge descents, monster climbs, incredible single track and breath-taking scenery
Travel from Inca Ruins to Pristine Amazon Jungle
A true mountain bike trip designed by mountain bikers
Soak in relaxing hot springs
Visit Machu Picchu ...view more details
Abbreviated Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Lima, Transfer to hotel and rest up
Day 2 Fly to Cusco and acclimatize with a short walking tour (B)
Day 3 Short ride to Pisac Artisan Market (B/L/D)
Day 4-6 From the Andes to the Amazon, an incredible sunrise and a huge descent into the cloud forest. (B/L/D)
Day 7-13 Exploring trails in and around the sacred valley of the Incas, relaxing in hot springs, and visiting remote Inca Ruins (B/L/D)
Day 14 Day tip to Machu Picchu and fully guided tour and PM return to Cusco. (B)
Day 15 Fly Cusco to Lima for your international flight home (B)
Why should I choose this trip? What makes it better (different) than other trips?
Amazonas Explorer understands mountain biking because we are bikers ourselves. We scouted this trip over several years to combine the best riding in Peru. We also offer real mountain bikes designed and maintained for off road riding in the Andes. ...view more details
What kind of person will enjoy this trip?
This is a true Mountain bike trip designed by Mountain bikers for those who want to experience the best off-road in Peru ...view more details
DAY 1: Arrive Lima. Transfer to hotel and rest up.
DAY 2: Early morning spectacular flight along the Andes to Cusco, transfer to your hotel and start acclimatizing to the rarefied air of this beautiful city (3326m). There will be a short pre-departure meeting to introduce Cusco, explain altitude sickness, exchange paperwork and a briefing on your forthcoming itinerary. In the afternoon, we can take a short walking tour of the city. (B)
DAY 3: Today we assemble the bikes (or adjust the hire bikes) before setting off out of Cusco on a good paved road to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We use a mix of tarmac and dirt track today - a perfect chance to try out the bikes and get used to cycling at altitude and acclimatise some more. We stop for a picnic lunch en route before arriving at the beautiful small village of Pisac and staying the night in a charming hostal (B/L/D)
DAY 4: Starting from Pisac we climb out of the Sacred Valley of the Incas on a steep tarmac road which gradually deteriorates into a fairly smooth dirt road. With the vehicle always on hand we'll ride as far as we can and then consider taking the truck the last few kilometres to the pass at 4320 metres. Today we should have spectacular views towards Mount Ausangate and the distant Apolabamba range on the Bolivian border. Our afternoon of cycling takes us down to Colquepata, mainly on a good road, but there is some single track for those who wish. We camp in a deserted hacienda beside a stream and some Inca ruins, at an altitude of 3385 metres. (B/L/D)
DAY 5: The day starts with a rapid downhill into the small village of Paucartambo, where we have a time to look around its famous square. This is a very clean and tidy village which every year holds a famous pagan festival, where dancers wear colourful costumes and exotic masks. The central fountain includes an impressive collection of bronze statues of these characters. There is now a tough climb, of about 2-3 hours (15 kilometres) to an altitude of 3800 metres, at the entrance to the Manu National Park. This is a fairly steady climb. From here we follow a very rough track for 16 kilometres to Tres Cruces, high up on the last pass before the Amazon Basin. The views (when not in cloud) are spectacular, as is the campsite itself. (B/L/D)
DAY 6: At certain times of the year (especially in May and June) the view of the sunrise from Tres Cruces can create a strange phenomenon. As the sun rises over the steamy Amazon rainforest, its light refracts to create a sensation of several different suns. A truly amazing sight which, weather permitting, we shall see. Cycling back to the main road, keep an eye out for deer or the ultra-elusive Andean bear. From our camp, we head down and down and down, through beautiful cloud forest. An almost endless downhill follows, as we weave our way into the steamy Amazon Basin. We camp at 1400 metres in the cloud forest with time to swim in a beautiful crystal clear river, before relaxing in the evening with a few local Cusquena beers. (B/L/D)
DAY 7: Today we return by vehicle back into the Andes, stopping to enjoy the breath-taking views along the way. We break this long journey by stopping en route for a picnic lunch then we have the option to cycle back into the sacred valley on a good dirt road. We return to our hostal in Pisac for the night (B/L/D)
DAY 8: Today starts with a short and scenic journey by bus out of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Starting at the town of Chincheros (3760m.), we follow a dirt road that undulates its way to the shores of Lake Huaypo and includes a spectacularly fast and dusty downhill where speeds of up to 45mph have been clocked. We continue on smaller trails, hopefully avoiding the sharp spines of the cacti that are common hereabouts, to our lunch stop at the rarely-visited and particularly impressive Inca ruins of Moray. After lunch, we have allowed some time to explore these ruins, before continuing our ride. Another downhill and a short uphill brings us to Maras, a small village with an interesting church. The downhill from here to the bottom of the Sacred Valley of the Incas is on an outstanding piece of single track - an old but still used mule track - which passes close by the truly amazing sight of Las Salinas - a salt mine dating back to Inca times but still in use today. Last year's entire group agreed that the final eleven miles, down through the salt mines, was one of the best single track descents that they had ever ridden. Crossing the Vilcanota River, we arrive back at the Hacienda in time for a late Barbecue and a few beers to celebrate the end of our Andean bike odyssey. (B/L/D)
DAY 9: Today we have a choice of two rides, a chance to try one Peru's finest downhill race courses and site of the 2004 "Avalanche" descent - An hour's drive brings us to just over 4000m for the start of a truly amazing downhill on single track, ancient Inca trail and incredible views as one descend 1400m of sheer fun. We return to the hacienda in time for a Barbecue and relaxing afternoon. Alternatively, for the saner, we can enjoy a road ride along to the artisan market of Pisac for a bit of retail therapy. Pisac is famous for its intricate ceramics and an impressive Inca ruin overlooking the town. (B/L/D)
DAY 10: We start by vehicle climbing up out of the Sacred Valley to approx 4000m where those who want can experience the challenge of a real high altitude climb. The good quality dirt road is an excellent gradient to climb, as it slowly winds it way uphill, but it is still a lung-busting ride and you may be grateful of the support vehicle which is on hand the whole way up. From the pass to Amparaes Village is a monster downhill on a mix of dirt road and old Inca Trail. We camp further down the valley beside a stream, deep in the cloud forest, having descended for a staggering total of 40 kilometres! (B/L/D)
DAY 11: The Lares Valley is recognised to be one of the most beautiful in Peru. We climb steadily for the whole morning to the charming village of Lares, where Los Banos del Inca (The Baths of the Inca) commands a magnificent view. These perfect temperature hot pools must be amongst the best in the world, in terms of their spectacular location. They provide a leisurely and revitalising way to spend the afternoon, helping us prepare for the efforts of tomorrow. (B/L/D)
DAY 12: From Lares, a ride up to the next pass on our route is another optional challenge, with the opportunity to take advantage of the support vehicle for those who do not feel up to the challenge. It is a long and steep climb, but far from impossible. From the pass at approx 4200 metres, our final ride follows a single track along yet another ancient Inca trail making for an afternoon of extreme fun downhill. The single track offers everything from wide smooth trail, to boulder-strewn rock gardens, to Inca steps and serious drop-offs. This is a dream ride that takes us back to the Urubamba Valley and the town of Calca, where we get in the support vehicles for the short drive to Ollantaytambo where we overnight in a local hostal and celebrate the end of our riding with a few beers. (B/L/D)
DAY 13: Today we take the spectacular train ride to Machu Picchu departing the nearby Station of Ollantaytambo at around 8.30 in the morning, for the shaky one and a half hour ride along the spectacular narrow-gauge track to Aguas Calientes. From here, a short bus ride takes us up through thick jungle, which clings to the steep sided valley walls, to a ridge top viewpoint overlooking the amazing ruins of Machu Picchu. This is one of the true wonders of the world and is never a disappointment. A full guided tour is included or you can choose to head off and explore the complex of ruins by yourself. For the energetic, there is sufficient time to take in a side hike to the top of Huayna Picchu. Alternatively, just relax and absorb the magic of this spiritual place. In the afternoon we descend by bus back to the railway station where we catch the train and bus back to Cusco for a night on the town. Cusco boasts some of the best restaurants and nightlife in Peru so you can be assured of a good night out (B)
DAY 14: A free day in Cusco to relax, pack up the bikes and do any last minute souvenir shopping or sightseeing. And for those with enough energy, we can explore Cusco nightlife again. (B)
DAY 15: A mid-morning flight from Cusco back to Lima in time to check into your international flight home. If time permits, you can hire a cab for sightseeing in the Peruvian capital, which is the oldest capital in South America, established by Francisco Pizarro in 1535. Once called "the Garden City," Lima has a Spanish Colonial history and many historically interesting buildings are to be found around the most important squares in the city centre, notably around Plaza de Armas and Plaza San Martin. A crowded pedestrian street links these two squares, and this area is also well known for street markets, lively bars and restaurants. Amongst other recommended places to visit in Lima are the Gold Museum (which houses the world's largest collection of gold and silver artefacts) and the Archaeological Museum. Lima is a rather widespread city, with a number of distinct areas. The affluent commercial centre of Miraflores and the attractive Spanish Colonial district of Barranco are in the southern suburbs.(B)
This provider can help with your other additional needs
local flights
transfers
additional accomodations
trip extensions
... and other requirements.
Request these additional services when you check availability above
What's Included
All airport transfers; Quality hotel in Lima, in Cusco, hostal in Pisac and Ollantaytambo and hacienda in Urubamba. All meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner) bi-lingual guide/mechanic, support vehicle and first aid kit, camping in two person tents, Thermarests, all cooking and camping equipment. Day trip to Machu Picchu including guide and all entrances.
Not Included
Internal flights ($160), sleeping bag (0ºC), cycling shorts, toe-clips/SPD clips or pedals, personal belongings, meals in Cusco, personal expenses and tips. Quality suspension Mountain bikes, gloves, helmet available for rent at $25per day. Day room in Lima available on request.
All airport transfers; Quality hotel in Lima, in Cusco, hostal in Pisac and Ollantaytambo and hacienda in Urubamba. All meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner) bi-lingual guide/mechanic, support vehicle and first aid kit, camping in two person tents, Thermarests, all cooking and camping equipment. Day trip to Machu Picchu including guide and all entrances.
Not Included
Not Included
Internal flights ($160), sleeping bag (0ºC), cycling shorts, toe-clips/SPD clips or pedals, personal belongings, meals in Cusco, personal expenses and tips. Quality suspension Mountain bikes, gloves, helmet available for rent at $25per day. Day room in Lima available on request.
Notes
Trip Notes
The "Mountain Bike Peru" travels through a remote and rarely visited part of Peru and we believe our clients should be aware that the remoteness that makes this trip so very special could also cause certain problems. Thus, whilst Amazonas Explorer endeavors 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. 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, rainforest river travel and traveling 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 adequate travel insurance to cover these risks and any costs incurred due to sickness, delayed flights and other factors out of Amazonas Explorer control.
A pre-departure meeting will be held on arrival. 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.
Transportation On Trip
Transportation Types
Private Van Private Bus
Lodging - Accommodations
What are the accommodations like?
Quality hotels in Lima and in Cusco, hostal in Pisac and Ollantaytambo and hacienda in Urubamba. Luxury camping when away from town.
Lodging Types
9 Nights hotels 5 Nights camping
Details
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.
What special equipment will we use on this trip? Tell me about it.
We provide top quality camping equipment and use our own vehicles. Full supsension mountain bikes available for rent.
Tell me about the guides on this trip
Mountain Bike Guides:
All have up to date 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.
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.
Minimum Age
16
Maximum Age
None
Weather
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.
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
If the trip is cancelled by the customer we reserve the right to charge:
1. The full cost of Inca Trail permit purchased on clients behalf.
2: Between 60 and 45 days prior to departure we charge 10% of trip price
3: 44-15 days prior to departure we charge 50% of trip price
4: 14 days or less we charge 100% of trip price
In exceptional circumstances and entirely at our discretion, we can offer up to 50% off trip price as an advance towards a future Amazonas Explorer fixed departure trip.
Detour, The Adventure Travel Marketplace - Mountain Bike Peru
