DAY 1: CUSCO CITY TOUR
Upon arrival to Cusco Airport. Reception and transportation to
the Hotel where you will receive an aromatic coca tea to
stimulating for the height, will have the free morning to rest
and also we suggest you have a light lunch either at your hotel
or in one of the surrounded; in the afternoon we will depart on
a guided city tour, where tourist have the opportunity to visit
6 places (entrance to the archaeological centers and museums
including) we will visit the Main square, Cathedral, the
Koricancha (temple of the sun) and in addition we will make a
route bordering archaeological centers like Sacsayhuaman
Fortress, Q'enko, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay, tour finishes
6:30pm approximately at the main square in order you can take
dinner in one of the exquisite restaurants in the area, then
overnight. (No meals included)
NOTES:
*City tour: from 1.45pm to 6:30pm approx. (Pickup from the hotel
starts at 1:15pm)
*Optional Buffet Dinner with Folkloric Show: Adding $30 per
person
DAY 2: FULL DAY SACRED VALLEY TOUR
Breakfast. You will be picked up at 8:15 am. Full day excursion to the
Urubamba Valley visiting: The colorful Indian market in Pisac where a
mixture of color, tradition will be able appreciated. Pisac is located
to the entrance of the Sacred Valley followed by Ollantaytambo. Most
people visit Pisac to see the market on Sunday, but there are smaller
markets on both Tuesday and Thursday. However Pisac is a pretty village
and has plenty of small handicraft shops and is worth a visit on any day
of the week as is a good place to buy the local ceramics including a
huge and varied collection of hand-painted multi-coloured beads. Lunch
in a typical restaurant in Urubamba then we continue with Ollantaytambo
which is an attractive little town located at the western end of the
Sacred Valley, considered the older town continuously occupied of the
American continent is located at the foot of some spectacular Inca ruins
which protected the strategic entrance to the lower Urubamba Valley. The
narrow streets of Ollantaytambo, along with their channels that have not
varied from the Inca time, evoke their ancestral inheritance, and then
finish visiting Chinchero.
Chinchero is a small Andean Indian village located high up on the
windswept plains of Anta at 3762m about 30km from Cusco and is believed
to be the mythical birthplace of the rainbow. Its major claim to tourism
is its colorful Sunday market which is much less tourist-orientated than
the market at Pisac. At the end, return to Cusco arriving at 6:30pm
approximately at the main plaza.
The night is free for you to eat in a restaurant of your choice;
although we always have plenty of suggestions for you should you require
them. (B, L)
Note: Take this tour
on market days: Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday // Bilingual Guided tour on
different days
DAY 3: RAFTING FULL DAY
We will pick up you at 8:50 am from your hotel in Cusco.
Our private transportation will take us to our camping ground at "Cusipata
river camp”, where we can leave our baggage. Here you will enjoy, hot
showers, toilets, sauna and a comfortable dining area.
Our Professional River guides will provide you with all the proper
Rafting equipment such as helmet, wet suit, spray jacket, paddle and
self bailing raft.
After a comprehensive safety talk you will drive 10 minutes more to
Chuqui them we will be running exiting class II & III+. You will spend
about two hours floating time, Afterwards, we drive back to CUSIPATA
RIVER CAMP “where a good hot lunch will be serve and you can enjoy a
relaxing SAUNA. Our return to Cusco should be around 5.30pm. Overnight (B,L)
*OPTIONAL TOUR: You
can do ZIP-LINE over 4 cables across the Urubamba River each cable with
100 to 120 mts. , you will spend 20 minutes approximately.
Supplement Optional Tour: US$24 per person
INCLUDES:
• Transportation to the river and back
• All the rafting equipment, such as helmets, life jackets, spray
jackets, wet suits, paddles & Raft.
• Professional River guides
• Lunch , we can accommodate to a vegetarian diet upon request
• Photos and video upon request with an additional charge
• Safety Kayaker
YOU SHOULD BRING:
• A complete set of dry clothing
• A pair of sandals or tennis shoes for the river that will get wet.
• Sun Block
• A small towel
• A bathing suit to wear under the wet suit
• A Good positive mental attitude
INCA TRAIL 4DAYS 3 NIGHTS
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is definitely one of the most requested
tours for those who visit Peru looking for adventure. We will offer a
walking adventure with unique style. You will enjoy from the beginning
to the end, of amazing landscapes of the Andes and a great mix of
highlands and jungle. There is no other natural place in our planet
which could show you a constantly changing variety of ecological floors,
surrounded by astonishing mountains and rivers, as well as a great
variety of animals and plants. Architectonical art is perfectly harmonic
with the natural environment and all of these natural wonders are added
to the Inca buildings which worth the effort to visit and enjoy.
Important Note: We will buy your Inca Trail trek permit using the names
& passport numbers that you send us with your trek booking application.
You must bring these same passports with you to Cusco and take them on
the Inca Trail. If the name or number in your passport is different from
the name and number on the trek permit, the government authorities will
not allow you to start the trek and you will not be entitled to a
refund. If you plan to renew your passport between making the trek
booking and actually starting the trek you will must bring the 2
passports (old and new). If you make a trek booking at the student price
you must send us a copy of your ISIC card at the time you pay the trek
deposit. If you fail to bring your ISIC card on the trek the government
authorities will not allow you to start the trek. You will not be given
the opportunity to pay the extra difference in price!
DAY 4: PISCACUCHO (Km.82)–HUAYLLABAMBA (The Easy day)
You will be picked up from your hotel at scheduled time, and transferred
in our private car to KM 82. The route will go through the beautiful
Sacred Valley of the Incas. After approximately one hour and a half, we
will cross the little town of Ollantaytambo, where we will make a little
stop to take some pictures of this fortress and have a little rest. We
will continue our trip following a rural road that goes parallel to the
railroad, which will lead us to the KM 82, where we will unpack and get
prepared to the walking with our excursion team (cookers, assistants and
porters). At this point, the passengers will have to show their
passports to the security personnel of the Sanctuary and once these has
been reviewed they will be able to cross a bridge that will take you to
the other side of the river where they will start climbing in a parallel
line to the Urubamba River, which goes from north to west across the
Sacred Valley. In this first section of the Inca Trail, we will visit
the Community of Miskay (2800 meters), where we will stop for meeting
the natives and try the popular drink known as “chicha”, which is
offered by the ladies of this place. Later we will start climbing
through a little tableland where we will experience an amazing Andean
landscape, and see in the base of the mountains a beautiful Inca
building known as “Patallacta”, located at 2750 meters over sea level.
At this point we will stop and our local guide will provide us
information regarding this interesting Inca legacy. After that, we will
continue walking for two hours along the Cusichaca River, going upwards
until reaching a beautiful spot where we will stop for lunch and take a
little break.
Shortly after that, we will continue walking through a zone full of
vegetation, where is highly probable seeing the beautiful giant
hummingbird native from this region. After a two hours walk we will
arrive to our first camping, located in the zone of Wayllabamba at 3000
meters height.
You will be able to enjoy a marvelous Andean landscape and the majesty
of Veronica Mountain, 5832 meters over sea level.
Camps will be assigned depending on the availability of entrants to the
Inca Trail, seasons. (B, L, D)
NOTE: It is normal if the first day feels hot during the dry season (May
to September). We strongly recommend bringing light and fresh clothing,
as well as a good sunscreen and a hat to protect your face.
Accommodation: Camping
Maximum altitude: 3000 M
Minimum Altitude: 2650 M
Distance traveled: 12 km
Approximate time of walk: 5 to 6 hours.
DAY 5: HUAYLLABAMBA – PACAYMAYU (The challenge day)
In this second day of the Inca Trail we will wake up early, around 06:00
am. This will be necessary in order to get ready and have breakfast
before starting the excursion. Later we will start walking through a
narrow road covered by plants, across a little bridge that will take us
towards a cloudy forest of a unique beauty. In this section of the trip
you should climb many stairs, for which we recommend taking all the time
that is needed and stopping for a break when necessary. Following the
route, we will arrive to the Llulluchapampa sector, where we will make a
quick stop just to rest and get prepared to climb to the highest point
of our walk, the famous pass Warmyhuañuska, located at 4200 meters above
the sea level. These sectors include about 2 kilometers of distance and
are a bit steep, for which we will recommend going slowly and stopping
for a break whenever needed. In this part of the trip we will face the
most difficult part of the walk, as we will be over 4200 meter height;
however this part is also known as one of the most beautiful landscapes
of the world. Once we have reached the top of the mountain, we will be
granted with a spectacular view of the Andean mountains. For this
special day, we recommend bringing some chocolates, lemon candy, a lot
of water and even some coca leaves. In the top we will be able to take
the classic pictures of the Inca Trail. After that we will descend by a
winding valley until the point where we will stop and have lunch. During
this last part it is possible to watch diverse type of wild birds.
At last we will arrive to the camp of Pacaymayo (3600 meters above sea
level) where we will spend a comfortable night. Pacaymayo is an official
camp, and that is why it has baths and showers; however, we should be
aware that the water in this part is really cold. (B, L, D)
Accommodation: Camping
Maximum altitude: 4200 M
Minimum Altitude: 3000 M
Distance traveled: 13 km
Approximate time of walk: 6 - 7 hours
DAY 6: PACAYMAYU – WIÑAYWAYNA (The unforgettable day)
A lot of visitors feel that this is one of the longest days of the
excursion, but at the same time, one of the most beautiful due to the
presence of marvelous Inca buildings along the road. This day we will
get up at 06:00 hours. After a tasty breakfast we will start our walk
climbing through a steep road. Soon we will arrive to Runkurakay ruins,
a beautiful Inca oval building which is believed to be as a Inca
watchtower. After hearing the historical explanation we will continue
until Runkurakay pass, located at 3900 meters above sea level. During
this trip we will find a little lake where sometimes you can watch
Andean goose and other native bird species. After the pass, we will
descend to a beautiful valley full of plants; here we will visit
Sayacmarka ruins, located 3624 meters height. This is an interesting
Inca construction, built over a steep slope, surrounded by marvelous
mountains. After visiting Sayacmarka, we will continue descending to the
cloudy forest, arriving to the Puyupatamarka ruins, composed of
impressive fountains and water channels that are spectacular works of
hydraulic engineering made by the Incas. At this stop we will have a
good time, after which we will continue down to reach one of the most
beautiful Inca buildings of the place: the ruins of Wiñaywayna. These
are without any doubt one of the most beautiful of all the ruins after
Machu Picchu. Wiñaywayna means "forever young" and it is said that
acquired said name due to the abundance of an orchid that bears the same
name. After exploring every corner of Wiñaywayna we head to our last
camp, which is located a few meters away.
Accommodation: Camping
Máximum Altitude: 3900 M
Minimum Altitude: 2700 M
Distance traveled: 16 km
Approximate hiking time: 7 to 8 hours.
DAY 7: WIÑAYWAYNA – MACHUPICCHU (The special day)
On the last day we will wake up very early, at 04:00 hrs. After
breakfast, we will quickly go and pass the control gate to enter the
path that leads directly to Machu Picchu. It is advisable to bring a
good flashlight, because this time it is normally dark here. After
walking for about one hour and a half, we will arrive at Inti Punku or
Sun Gate, a magnificent point from where you can see the city of Machu
Picchu. At this point we can relax for a few minutes, take pictures of
the group, and finally go down to reach the recognized as one of the
seventh wonders of the world: Machu Picchu.
It was long thought that Machu Picchu was only part of a legend, until
in 1911 the American explorer Hiram Bingham discovered it only after
many expeditions in the area. Machu Picchu rises to a height of 2430
meters above sea level, in the middle of a tropical forest with an
extraordinary location. It was without any doubt one of the most amazing
urban creation in Inca times. Its massive walls, terraces and ramps seem
to be continually cut in the rocky cliffs. Our guide will take you on a
tour of the most impressive of this beautiful Inca city. This will take
us about 2 hours, after which we have free time to explore each city on
our own taste and preference. Then return by bus to the town of Aguas
Calientes, to take the train that will take us back to the city. At the
time indicated on the ticket of train our staff will be waiting at the
station, from where we will transfer to your hotel. (B)
Maximum altitude: 2700 M
Minimum Altitude: 2400 M
Distance: 6 km
Approximate walking time: 3 to 4 hours.
DAY 8: TRANSFER OUT
Breakfast and according time, transportation will be provided to go the
airport (B).
*INCA TRAIL INFORMATION
OUR SERVICE INCLUDED
*Transfer by bus to km.82 (trail head)
*Entrance Fee, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
*A large tent, for each 2 persons.
*Mattress, one per person.
*Kitchen tent.
*Dining tent.
*Enough tables and chairs.
*English speaking professional tour guide (over 8 members, 2 guides).
*An expert cook.
*Porters (to carry tent, food, cooking equipment )
*Train Ticket
*Full meals during the trek.
*Daily snack bag.
*Daily afternoon tea service.
*Daily wake up tea, and hot water for washing.
*Daily morning boiled and cold water to fill the water bottles.
*Emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit.
*Transfer train station / hotel
*Bus Ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
NO INCLUDED:
*Breakfast first day (you can order an early breakfast at your hotel)
*Lunch last day
*Hot springs pool visit (on your own).
*Tips to the crew (guides, cooks and porters).
*Sleeping bag
WHAT WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU BRING
A backpack with necesessary change of clothes for the whole period of
the trek
Rain gear (jacket and pants if available) or rain poncho (plastic
ponchos can be purchased in Cusco)
Strong footwear, waterproof trekking boots recommended
Sandals or jogging shoes for a higher comfort while at camp
Warm clothes, including jacket, fleeces. Thermal clothing is also
recommended, especially for sleeping
Flashlight/headlamp and batteries
Camera, films and batteries (batteries consume more quickly under cold
conditions)
Hat or cap to protect you from the sun, rain and cold
Sun block
After-sun cream or hydrating cream for face and body
Insect repellent – minimum recommended 20% DEET – no malaria risk has
been reported
Handkerchiefs
Toilet paper
Snacks: biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc.
Please note that we do provide a daily morning snack and our meal
service is very complete and well supplied. This recommendation applies
for all clients being used to a specific snack, as it may happen that it
is not included in our selection
Water container and water for the first morning. Important notice:
plastic water bottles are no longer allowed into the Inca Trail. Plastic
water containers (ie. Nalgene) or metal ones are recommended
Optionally: water- sterilizing tablets in case you pick up water from
streams or rivers along the route. Otherwise, we provide filtered boiled
water, which is safe to drink and has not reported any health problem so
far
Small towel
Swimsuit (if you wish to go to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
Cash in soles and/or US$ (No ATM machines in Aguas Calientes)
Original passport
Original International Student Identity Card (in case you have applied
for a student discount)
Optional: walking sticks or poles (rubber covers required in order not
to damage the Inca Trail)
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STUDENT DISCOUNT:
Note: To apply
to this discount It is necessary to send us your scan copy ISIC
(International Student Identity Card) with your other
information.
Without this copy we will not be able to make the discount.
This is the ONLY Student
card to apply the discount
When booking a trek: The
government has strictly limited the number of people permitted
on the Inca Trail during 2009 (permits are issued to about 200
trekkers per day plus 300 porters). We recommend that you make a
trek booking as early as possible. In 2008 the trek permits for
some dates sold out more than 4 months in advance!! However
don't make a booking until you have all the group details
(names, passport numbers, ages etc) and you are sure about your
trek departure date since "these details cannot be changed after
we have bought your trek permit"
* Participants need to be in good physical health and condition
it is good for travelers who are in condition to hike up to ten
hours, with breaks in a single day to enjoy the Inka Trail. The
trekking will be difficult if you have not exercised regularly
before your trip. To fully enjoy an Inka Trail adventure, we
advise passengers to get into an exercise program for their own
safety and enjoyment. If a passenger suffers from any medical
condition, we advise him/her to consult a physician about
joining an Inka Trail Expedition.
Take only the necessary items for the 4/3 days trek, You can
leave the rest of your luggage at your hotel in Cusco (most of
hotels and hostals has an storage rooms to keep it until your
return)
PARK REGULATIONS
Park authorities may occasionally designate different campsites
than those indicate The Inca Trail is part of the Machu Picchu
Sanctuary, a protected area of 32,592 hectares. Every visitor
must obey park regulations prohibiting littering, cutting or
damaging trees, removing or damaging stones of ruins and the
Trail, removing plants, killing animals, lighting open fires or
camping in the archeological sites (Only authorized campsites
can be used).
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Trek Options:
1. Personal porters can be hired to help carry your personal
items such as clothes, sleeping bag etc. The services of a third
of a porter (maximum 9kg or 18lb per person) can be hired for
US$135. If you hire the services of a third of a porter (you
will need to supply the small padlock). However, even with this
service you will still need to take a daypack to carry your
essential items such as rain poncho, warm fleece, camera and
water bottle.
Please note that due to new government regulations the maximum
number of porters that we can use in each group has now been
capped. This is why we have had to limit the maximum amount of
personal equipment that you can give to a porter to carry for
you to 7kg or 14lb per person. (The maximum amount that each
porter can carry on the Inca Trail has also been limited to 20kg
or 42lb per porter). Approximately 30% of our clients hire the
services of an extra third porter.
2. We can also provide vegetarian meals or cater for special
diets at no extra cost but we need to know when you make the
trek reservation.
3. You can hire sleeping bags in our office. All sleeping bags
are synthetic (easy to wash). They are washed after every use
and are guaranteed to be clean.
Cost: US$40 per person for the 4 day/3 night trek. Weight 2.5 kg
and are rated to 12 degrees below freezing (nice and warm even
during the coldest of nights experienced on the Inca Trail).
TRAIN SERVICES:
The Vistadome connect
your senses through a sophisticated and sensory travel
experience; is the ideal train for those who want to be in
contact with the environment and appreciate the wonderful
journey to Machu Picchu.
Surrounded entirely by glass and wagons with large panoramic
windows offering incomparable scenic views and innumerous
opportunities to capture amazing pictures, Vistadome travelers
feel connected and part of the impressive landscape of Peru.
The Vistadome also has air conditioning and heating, leather
seats that adjust the body to provide comfort and relaxation
during the entire trip and has a different service, which allows
the visitor to be immersed and feel the Andean culture through
its landscapes, music, dance and even food carefully prepared
with local ingredients
The Expedition is
a travel experience with all the quality and benefits at a lower
cost. Is a service designed for the traveler’s comfort, with
four passenger seats located in front of each other, so you can
share your experience, and for the faithful backpack that is
always with you we offer racks placed above the seats. Also,
this train has panoramic windows, air conditioning and heating,
and Andean music that creates a cheerful atmosphere.
END OF SERVICES
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Click to enlarge
Cusco by Night
Ollantaytambo ruins
Rafting
View of Machupicchu with
the Hiram Bingham road
Machu Picchu
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