*Details may vary with dates. Select dates to see exact details.
detour Opinion: Is this trip for me?
Amazonas Explorer has been called the "Best adventure outfitter in Cusco" by Conde Nast Traveler, and they offer trips that equal those of the most expensive international outfitters.
This 9-day comprehensive trip simplifies your trip planning as it takes care of you from the moment you land in Peru until you take off for home, including flights within Peru, hotels, airport transfers, and guided tours. The core of the trip is the 5-day Inca Trail trek, which has a much better pace with more time to explore ruins along the trail and more time at Macchu Picchu, than the traditional 4-day treks. By overnighting near Machu Picchu you get to explore the site early in the morning when the light is perfect and the day crowds have not yet arrived by train or the Inca Trail.
Trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (5-days), explore Cusco and visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas in this fabulous 8-day Peruvian experience that provides all transportation, lodging, and services beginning and ending in Cusco. It is easy to add services in Lima, or flights from Lima-Cusco-Lima if you would like help with these as well.
The former Inca Capital and Spanish colonial city of Cusco is our base for this great expedition, a wonderful place full of culture, history, good restaurants and fun nightlife. From Cusco we travel through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing the Inca Fortress town of Ollantaytambo, before embarking on the famous Inca Trail to the lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu.
This five day, four night trek involves spectacular Andean scenery along an ancient paved Inca trail. We have plenty of time to treasure each view and the many ruins en-route. A night is spent in the colourful town of Aguas Calientes before spending the whole day exploring the awe-inspiring, ‘new wonder of the modern world’, Machu Picchu. The return to Cusco is by ‘Vistadome’ train and private bus. The final day is spent relaxing in Cusco’s ancient streets, artisan markets or excellent restaurants and bars.
This trip can be combined with a number of “Excellent Extensions” such as a trip to our Amazon rainforest lodge, the Colca Canyon, rafting the mighty Apurimac River or a boat trip on Lake Titicaca.
Highlights
-Trek the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
-Explore Cusco - full of culture, history, fine dining and fun nightlife
-Fully-supported luxury service on the Inca Trail, expert English speaking guides, top camping equipment, exquisite camp cuisine
Why should I choose this trip? What makes it better (different) than other trips?
We run a fully-supported luxurious trip on the famed Inca Trail, one of the best treks in the world. While many groups rush this trip in four days, we take the time to truly enjoy the experience by completing the trek in 5 days. An overnight at Machu Picchu provides time to see the ruins before the day crowds arrive in late morning, letting us enjoy peace and quiet at this majestic spot. ...view more details
What kind of person will enjoy this trip?
Our 8-day Inca Trail is for adventure connoisseurs--those wanting to experience the top sites in Peru in relative comfort, and with top service and cuisine. ...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: Start Inca Trail
Our Inca Trail guides pick us up this morning for the drive past the impressive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo and a chance to buy any last minute supplies. After an interesting drive to the end of the road at Chilca we meet our support team of traditional porters before embarking on the famous Inca trail to Machu Picchu.
The trek undulates along the banks of the Urubamba river and we camp the night at Llactapata (2,788m) beside some spectacular ruins which, if you have the energy, we have time to explore. This is camping and trekking in style. Whilst walking all you need to carry is a daypack, all camping equipment is carried by the porters. All camp chores are done for us and delicious food is served by a cook and his helpers. (B/L/D)
Day 3: Llactapata to Llulluchupampa
We trek up the Cusichaca valley to the small hamlet of Huallyabamba, the last inhabited place on the trail. The path continues on up beautiful Inca path, past humming birds and stunted cloud forest. Our camp is at Llulluchupampa (3680m) - a beautiful grassy area with outstanding views down the valley. (B/L/D)
Day 4: Llulluchupampa to Phuyopatamarca
Possibly the hardest day of the trek, we rise early and head to the top of Warmiwanusca (Dead woman’s pass 4200m). This is the highest point of the trail before we descend into the Pacasmayo valley and then climb again passing the first of many Inca ruins Runkuracay. Our second pass of the day (3998m) gives us spectacular views of the Vilcabamba range.
Walking on well preserved Inca pathway we pass Sayacmarca ruins with plenty of time for an in depth tour and explanation before passing through a tunnel and a gentle climb which brings us to Phuyupatamarca ruins (the place above the clouds) where we camp (3650m). (B/L/D)
Day 5: Arrive Machu Picchu
After an early morning chance to catch the sunrise on the surrounding snow capped mountains of Salcantay (6,200m) and Veronica (5,800m), we say a farewell to our porters with a traditional song and dance. Our final day hiking brings us down into the cloud forest on a series of Inca stairway to Winay Wayna, another interesting ruin full of swallows and orchids. Finally we contour through cloud-forest to Inti Punku, the gateway of the Sun and our first glimpse of Machu Picchu. We pass through the ruins and catch a bus down to our hostal in the colourful town of Aguas Calientes and celebrate our return to civilisation. (B/L)
Day 6: Machu Picchu
Returning first thing in the morning we have Machu Picchu virtually to ourselves for a full guided tour, with time afterwards to climb Huayna Picchu or else just wander through the ruins, soaking up the amazing atmosphere. In the afternoon, we board the train for an exhilarating ride along the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here our waiting bus whisks us back to Cusco and our hotel. Then if we have the energy we can explore Cusco’s excellent nightlife. (B)
Day 7: 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 8: Cusco - Home
Today, we transfer to Cusco airport in time for your internal and international flights home. Or for those with more time consider one or more of our Excellent Extensions to the Amazon Rainforest, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa and the Colca canyon, Nazca and the Ballestas islands or more adventures by bike, foot, canoe, raft or horse. Please contact us for more details. (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, transport to the Inca Trail in private vehicle.
* All camping and cooking equipment: this includes Therm-a-rests, spacious two-person tents, dining tent and toilet tent. An emergency first-aid kit and oxygen.
*A registered, English-speaking Inca Trail guide
* All porters, cook team, guided tour in Machu Picchu.
* Entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, also the porters’ Inca Trail entrances.
* Bus transfers between the ruins and Aguas Calientes.
* Transport from Machu Picchu to your hotel in Cusco will be the luxury Vistadome train service and bus transfer.
* Accommodation will be quality hotels in Lima, Cusco and a hostal in Aguas Calientes.
* All meals provided are indicated in the itinerary. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
Not Included
* International nor internal flights
* Personal belongings
* Sleeping bag (available for hire at $10 a night),
* Airport taxes ($6 local, $31 international)
* Travel insurance
* Personal expenses and tips.
To review this trip please register or login (if already registered).
Overall Rating:
6 customer reviews
Destination:
5.0
Activity:
4.8
Equipment:
4.3
Food:
4.8
Guides & Service:
4.8
Provider Rating: 19 trip reviews
Equipment:
4.6
Food:
4.6
Guides & Service:
4.9
Social & Environmental Responsibility:
4.6
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Inca Trail Trip
by cvarner256, Experienced,
Jan 12, 2009
This was a wonderful trip. The Amazonas Explorer support crew were great, and the tour guide (Wilo) was knowledgable and courteous. He took good care of the guests. The food was delicious, and the efforts of the porters (campsite set-up, food and drink service, hygiene, etc.) were top-notch. This trip is a great way to see many archeological sites in the region that you just cannot otherwise access. So many people hop on the train to Aguas Calientes, then the bus to Machu Picchu and think they've seen it all, but you're missing so much if you don't trek the trail! The day or two in Cusco was also fun; there are many interesting sights to see there.
On the "warnings" side, I would add these things:
1) the altitude is pretty extreme, so you need to be able to deal with it. It would be a good idea to show up a few days early, just to get acclimated, before taking on the trek (there are a couple of high peaks on the trek).
2) when they say "rainy season" they mean it. The rain can make for less-than-pleasant trekking and camping experiences and the clouds can mess up the view, so I would suggest either going in the dry season or in the spring or fall, so you won't see as much rain and cloud.
3) when in Cusco, since you obviously look like a tourist, you'll be approached by a lot of people trying to sell you stuff (water colors, post cards, Andean dolls). Just prepare yourself to say "No" a lot.
4) when choosing from among the local restaurants, stick with the places that serve normal food for the region. The places that aspire to be "gourmet" really fall short of the mark, while the normal restaurants serve great meals and plentiful portions.
All-in-all, this was a great experience and I give all credit to the Amazonas Explorer group -- they take care of their guests and forsee and accommodate all contingencies very well. And, yes, EVERYONE should try to see Machu Picchu, whether they do the Trail or not, sometime in their lives!
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Amazing trail!
by Casey W., Experienced,
Oct 29, 2008
Peru is beautiful. The Inca trail was amazing and well worth the time and money. Our accommodations were great given the environment. All tents were very nice a well set up. The food was exceptional, especially for trail food. Our guide was helpful, friendly and knowledgeable. The trip was very environmentally responsible, nothing but tracks left behind and guide was very responsible in picking up trash left by others. Overall this was an excellent trip. Would definitely travel with this provider again and recommend this trip to my friends.
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True professionals
by David G., Experienced,
Oct 30, 2007
The folks at Amazon
Explores did an excellent job. I was very impressed with every aspect
(pick up, guides, food on the trail, knowledge of the culture,
historical facts, etc). True professionals.
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it was a great trip
by Roman G, Minimal Experience,
Oct 30, 2007
The guide Reuben "Chino" (nickname) was a real professinal. As a former history professor, he was able to give us the history of the Incas as well as the local vegitation, mountains,etc.
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The Inca Trail
by Alex L, Jun 02, 2006
This was an amazing trip. Amazonas was a great company all the way around. I think their schedule is one of the better ones I witenessed while on the trail. You start the trail kind of late on the first afternoon and there is a short hike to the fist campsite overlooking the Patallacta site. All the other tour companies started way earlier to we had the the trail and campsite all to ourselves. For the most part we were able to stay away from other groups. As you hike the trail you can see porters setting up camps. Our campsites were always the best ones - away from other groups and far from the bathrooms (trust me - this is a good thing, plus we had our own chemical toilet - a.k.a the fax machine). Our guides, Willo and Oswaldo, were great - always cheerful and absurdly accomodating. The equipment was all first rate. The was the best backpacking food you could ask for, especially good because someone else cooks and cleans. Plus they catered to everyone from carnivors to the veggies. Every morning we woke to warm water bowls for washing up, hot tea, and a hot breakfast. Every day we stopped for a three course lunch followed again by hot tea. Every afternoon we arrived and the entire campsite was already prepared and the porters cheered your arrival. We were greeted with more hot tea and hot water for washing up. Dinner was three courses with soup, hot entree, dessert, and more hot tea. They provided plenty of drinking water and were obsessive about hand washing and overall cleanliness. The Inca Trail reugulations make it quite difficult to offer a first class trip - we had about 20 porters for 14 people - however, Amazonas has worked hard to provide an amazing trip in spite of challenging regulations. I have uploaded some pictures to the forum.
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The Inca Trail
by Gfi, Sep 22, 2005
What a fantastic trip! There is no better way to experience Machu Picchu than to arrive by foot as the Incas did. And Amazonas Explorer runs a fabulous trip. Our every need was taken care of before we even knew we had a need.
* All airport transfers, transport to the Inca Trail in private vehicle.
* All camping and cooking equipment: this includes Therm-a-rests, spacious two-person tents, dining tent and toilet tent. An emergency first-aid kit and oxygen.
*A registered, English-speaking Inca Trail guide
* All porters, cook team, guided tour in Machu Picchu.
* Entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, also the porters’ Inca Trail entrances.
* Bus transfers between the ruins and Aguas Calientes.
* Transport from Machu Picchu to your hotel in Cusco will be the luxury Vistadome train service and bus transfer.
* Accommodation will be quality hotels in Lima, Cusco and a hostal in Aguas Calientes.
* All meals provided are indicated in the itinerary. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
Not Included
Not Included
* International nor internal flights
* Personal belongings
* Sleeping bag (available for hire at $10 a night),
* Airport taxes ($6 local, $31 international)
* Travel insurance
* Personal expenses and tips.
Notes
Trip Notes
The "Inca Trail" travels through a remote and rarely visited part of Peru and we believe our clients should be aware that the remoteness that makes the Inca Trail 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.
The Inca Trail involves trekking over several high passes up to 4200m and involves steep descents on old Inca steps-it is recommended that all clients should have some previous trekking experience and should be in reasonable fitness.
Please note last minute international & internal flight changes, also excess baggage charges are out of our control. 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 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 the day before departure. It is highly recommended you attend. All clients will be asked to sign a risk assumption form and must provide a photocopy of their passport, Peru entry stamp and details of their travel insurance.
Transportation On Trip
Transportation Types
Private Bus Train
Lodging - Accommodations
What are the accommodations like?
All hotels are clean and functioning 3* Hotels. Laundry service, hot water & cable TV are standard in Cusco, Puno, Arequipa & Lima. 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.
Lodging Types
4 Nights hotels 3 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 is the food like on this trip?
We pride ourselves on our most excellent cuisine, with a heavy emphasis on hygienically prepared, wholesome, and copious quantities of really tasty food. Vegetarian dishes are our speciality and any unusual dietary requirements can easily be catered for. Each morning starts with a hearty breakfast, around noon we stop for a leisurely lunch break and, by early evening, an excellent dinner is served complete with local wines and spirits.
What special equipment will we use on this trip? Tell me about it.
Camping: Spacious two person tents or single tents, Dining tent, Cook tent & toilet tent All camping and cooking equipment including Therm-a-rests and camping stools. Note: Due to tight weight restrictions on the Inca trail no single supplement tents are available.
Tell me about the guides on this trip
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 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.
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
65
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
Trip Specific Policies
The purchase of Inca Trail permits is a strictly controlled procedure by the Peruvian Institute of Culture. There are only 500 permits for guides, porters and trekkers per day. This has led to very competitive demand with permits sold out at least 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 trip cannot be confirmed until:
A): Full client information (Full name, Passport number, Nationality, Date of birth and Occupation) 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.
2: Once issued an Inca Trail permit is non-refundable and non-endorsable and clients will be liable for cost of permit (at present $60) plus an administration charge of US $25
3: Client must bring with them the passport with which the permit was issued - ie the passport number that you provided us with at time of booking - otherwise entry to the Inca Trail or KM 104 Inca Trail will not be permitted.
4: Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and local ruins entrance fees for 2006 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 have be passed onto the clients
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
Incredible biking, beautiful scenery, spectacular trails, Inca ruins and hotsprings -- 3 days of ...
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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 - The Inca Trail
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