PERU EXPLORER

LIMA - AREQUIPA- COLCA CANYON - LAKE TITICACA - CUSCO - INCA TRAIL - MACHU PICCHU - AMAZON JUNGLE -LIMA (16 DAYS)

DATES & PRICE 2008

£1795 per person single supp £365 exc international flights

This trip is ideal for travelers looking to experience the best of Southern Peru in just sixteen days plus trek the Inca Trail** to Machu Picchu.

'Hello!

I would very much like to thank Andy at Golden Hill Travel and all the staff at Amazonas Explorer for providing us the best vacation ever imaginable. Our PEX 05 2007 journey was stuffed with magnificent experiences and superb service. Not even a single arrangement failed. The memories of these weeks in Peru will lifelong continue to feed our pride and joy over having been there.

And may Amazonas Explorer please bring our special best regards to the nice Pilar, the good Alain and the enthusiastic Elezeus, guiding us in Arequipa, Puno and Cusco; to the incredibly inspiring and experienced Zac, the wise Henry, and all the rest of our fantastic crew making us survive the Inca trail with pride and dignity; and the very interesting Jesus showing us some of the unbelievable adventures of the rainforest.

Splendido! Thank you very much! To all of you.

On behalf of the Norwegian group

Leif Anders Stuevold PEX5-07'

Peru is generally split into three geographical regions, the desert coastal strip, the high Andes Mountains and the Amazon basin. We begin our journey with a short flight to the 'White City' of Arequipa in Southern Peru dominated by the stunning conical "El Misti" mountain. At 2600m Arequipa is the ideal place to begin our acclimatisation to the rarefied air of the Andes. One can explore Arequipa's fine Plaza, the ice mummy museum or visit the many alpaca textile shops. We then board a private minibus and head off through remote villages to the impressive Colca canyon and the delightful Colca Lodge. Here we have the chance to see Condors over one of the world's deepest canyons, hike to geysers or just relax in some of the finest hot-springs imaginable.

A spectacular drive through the altiplano brings us to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. This busy lakeside village is the base for our day trip on Lake Titicaca. We take a private express boat to visit the floating reed islands of Uros and Taquile Island. These are renowned for their ancient way of life, weavings and spectacular views of the lake.

We then take one of the World's classic railway journeys *** from Puno across the high plains to Cusco. We spend a day exploring Cusco, the former Inca Capital - a wonderful place to explore full of culture, history, good restaurants and fun nightlife.

Now fully acclimatised, our next adventure takes us from Cusco 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 relaxed five day / four night trek involves spectacular Andean scenery along an ancient paved Inca trail and visiting many ruins. Our final night is in the colourful town of Aguas Calientes before spending a whole day exploring the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu. The return to Cusco is by luxury train and bus in time for a celebration meal.

A short flight takes us to Puerto Maldonado deep in the Amazon rainforest where we transfer by boat and on foot to one of the best situated jungle lodges in the heart of the Tambopata Reserve. Here we can search the rainforest for monkeys, macaws, leaf cutting ants and canoe on the Ox-bow lake in search of black caiman and giant otters. Our expert resident guide educating us every step of the way. We then fly back to Lima in time to connect with our International flight home.
**For those who do not wish to trek, there is an option to visit Machu Picchu by train and to spend time exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
*** Please note: the train only operates five times a week, there is a luxury bus alternative on the other days.

DETAILED ITINERARY

DAY 1: Arrive Lima. Transfer to hotel and rest up.

DAY 2: An early morning spectacular flight along the Peruvian coast brings us to the "White City" of Arequipa, the ideal place to start acclimatizing to the rarefied air of the Andes and a beautiful city to explore. Arequipa boasts a magnificent marble Plaza de Armas, quaint old town streets, the picturesque Santa Catalina Monastery and Juanita the Ice maiden museum. Alpaca wool is Arequipa's finest export and there are plenty of opportunities for treating yourself to some stunning textiles here.(B)

DAY 3: Driving out of Arequipa we enjoy spectacular views of the mountains surrounding the city before climbing high into the Andes and descending into the amazing Colca canyon. The Colca canyon is one of the World's deepest canyons and is home to Condors and a fascinating local culture, totally different from any other place you will visit on this trip. We over night in the charming Colca lodge. Soaking in the World class hot-springs is the prime activity here, closely followed by exploring the lodge's restaurant, bar or games room. (B/L/D)

DAY 4: The private guide and minibus are at your disposal for the day. An early morning drive to Cruz del Condor is recommended in search of one of the world's largest birds, the condor, who nest in the cliffs of one of the world's deepest canyons (approx. 3,400m deep). Hiking to near-by ruins and a tour of the unique native culture and weavings in the area are also available activities. On return to the lodge plenty of time is left for just relaxing in the hot springs. (B/L/D)

DAY 5: A spectacular drive through the high Andes, passing beautiful lakes and huge vistas as we travel on a newly asphalted road to Juliaca and on to our destination of Puno. En route we can take a visit to Silustani ruins, whose fascinating circular burial chambers pre-date the Incas. The amazing stone work of this early civilisation was obviously a strong influence on the famous Inca stone masons.
In Puno we check into our hotel and can explore this interesting town and barter for locally hand-knitted woollen goods. (B/L)

DAY 6: Lake Titicaca is a photographer's dream, its clear sapphire water and the astounding blue skies are mesmerizing. A full day's boat trip with your own private guide and boat ensure you see all the sights in safety and style. The famous floating reed islands of Uros and the ancient traditions and weavings of Taquile Island are explained and viewed at your leisure. We return to our Puno hotel for the night. (B/L)

DAY 7: Today we board the luxury all day train from Puno to Cusco. This classic Orient Express train journey, recently voted "one of the top ten railway journeys of the world" cuts across the formidable Peruvian Altiplano, whose high plains are rich with llama herds, green Ibises and mountain villages where life is harsh but the resilient locals keep their communities with pride and good humour. On arrival at Cusco train station we transfer to your hotel. This evening we stretch our legs around the spectacular Plaza de Armas and dine in one of the many excellent restaurants as we begin to explore the fascinating city of Cusco. Please note: the train only operates five times a week, there is a luxury bus alternative on the other days. (B/L)

DAY 8: A free day to explore Cusco. From the Plaza de Armas, we suggest a visit to the sun temple, Qoricancha, a walk up to the San Blas district and for the energetic a visit to Sacsayhuaman fort overlooking the city. For those looking to relax there are countless excellent bars and cafes overlooking the Plaza de Armas and plenty of bargain hunting to do in the artisan markets. We meet in the evening for a briefing on the Inca Trail (B)

DAY 9: From Cusco we drive into the sacred valley of the Incas, calling in at the impressive ruins at Ollantaytambo. At the end of the road we meet the team of porters and cooks for lunch and start to trek along the banks of the Urubamba river. This is ideal for acclimatisation purposes. We camp the night at Llactapata (2,288m) beside some spectacular ruins. This is camping and trekking in style. Whilst walking all you need to carry is a daypack - all camping equipment is carried by our support team of traditional porters. All camp chores are done for us and delicious food is served by a cook and his helpers.(B / L / D)

DAY 10: We trek up the Cusichaca valley to the small hamlet of Huallyabamba, the last inhabited place on the trail. The path continues on up 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 11: 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 (3850m) gives us spectacular views of the Vilcabamba range. Walking on incredibly 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 (3650m) where we camp. (B / L / D)

DAY 12: Our final days hiking brings us down into the Cloud forest on a Inca stairway to Winay Wayna (2,600m), another interesting ruin full of orchids and swallows. And so to Inti Punku, the gateway of the Sun for our first glimpse of Machu Picchu (2,400m). After treasuring the moment 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 13: First thing in the morning we return to Machu Picchu and have it virtually to ourselves for a full guided tour, with time afterwards to climb Huayna Picchu, walk out to the Inca bridge or else just wander through the ruins soaking up the amazing atmosphere. We have a late lunch in Aguas Calientes before boarding the afternoon train back to Poroy. Here our waiting bus speeds us back to our Cusco Hotel. If you have the energy we can then explore Cusco's excellent nightlife. (B/L)

DAY 14: A short flight over the Andes brings us to Puerto Maldonado, in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. Here we travel by motorized dug out canoe boat away from the town to our jungle lodge. With our resident expert guides on hand we can choose to do as little or as much exploring as we like. We can take canoe rides, hike trails, go out at night in search of Caimen or simply relax in our hammock and soak up the atmosphere. (B / L / D)

DAY 15: Up at dawn we continue our exploration of the jungle, by foot into the pristine rainforest or by canoe on the nearby lake. Our resident naturalist guides will explain to us the amazing flora and fauna of the Amazon. Hopefully we see several species of monkeys, many exotic birds and if we are lucky maybe a mammal or two. Another siesta and for those who wish, more exploration of the rainforest.(B / L / D)

DAY 16: We transfer back to Puerto Maldonado for your flight to Lima in time to connect with your international flights home. (B)

WE PROVIDE: All airport transfers, internal flights and train/bus tickets. All transport in private vehicle, English speaking tour conductor trained in first-aid and C.P.R. and private local guides. Quality 5* hotel in Lima, 3* hotels in Cusco, Puno, Colca, Arequipa, a hostal in Aguas Calientes and a Jungle lodge in Puerto Maldonado. On the Inca trail, all camping and cooking equipment including Thermarests, spacious two person tents, dining, cook and toilet tent. Extensive First-aid kit including Oxygen; A qualified Inca trail guide, all porters, cook team, guided tour in Machu Picchu, entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu ($50), Ollantaytambo ruins ($6), bus transfers to and from the ruins. All meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).

The Amazonas Explorer Inca Trail is known to be one of the most luxurious trekking experiences available. Our trip includes:
· Private, luxury bus transfer to and from Cusco
· All entrances including a guided tour of Ollantaytambo Inca fortress en route, the Inca Trail permit and Full guided tour of Machu Picchu
· A relaxed 5 day / 4 night combination (only 3 nights camping) avoiding the busiest campsites, allowing more time for clients to acclimatise before attempting the highest pass, plenty of time to visit the fascinating ruins en route and allowing a whole day to really explore Machu Picchu.
· A University trained Inca Trail guide, trained in wilderness first aid, fluent in English, highly knowledgeable and fun to be with
· State of the art camping equipment - Swiss imported tents (the biggest and most comfortable on the trail), Thermarest inflatable mattresses, dining, cook, porter and toilet tents
· Delicious hygienically prepared food - our menu was designed by the owner of the top restaurant in Cusco - A truly Gourmet cuisine experience.
· Full emergency first aid kit, oxygen, satellite phones and radio communications
· A variety of hotels and luxury packages to choose from in Aguas Calientes
· Luxury Autovagon or decadent Hiram Bingham train return to Poroy followed by private bus transfer to Cusco hotel.
· Well looked after porters - please ask for a copy of our "Porter Protection Policy"

Quite simply, if you are going to do the Inca Trail in style,we are your only choice!

NOT INCLUDED: International flights, personal belongings, sleeping bag, airport taxes($5 local, $28 international), personal expenses, and tips. Day rooms in Lima on final day are not included but can also be organised if required.
WHAT TO BRING:
On this expedition we will be experiencing all extremes of Peruvian climate, from freezing Altiplano to extremely hot sunshine.
General:
- Smart clothes for nightlife - Comfortable clothes for journeys
- Sleeping bag (0ºC) - Towel
- Sunglasses with attaching string - Peaked cap
- Water bottle & purification tablets - Torch & Spare Batteries
- Swim suit - Lipbalm
- Suntan lotion Factor 15+ - After sun
- Personal toilet kit - Camera & spare film 100 & 400 (optional)
- Pocket knife - Book, Notepaper & Pen (optional)
- Money belt - Spare Glasses / Lenses
- Personal first aid kit to include: painkillers, plasters (band-aids), moleskin, anti-biotic cream, general anti-biotics (ask your GP), after-bite (tiger balm), anti-diarrhoea tablets, throat lozenges, re-hydration salts & personal medication. (Amazonas Explorer carry an extensive first aid kit & Oxygen on all trips, but these are generally for emergencies only)
Trekking:
- Shorts - T-shirts
- Warm fleece or down jacket - Thermal underwear
- Warm hat, gloves, scarf - Sweater (Available in Cusco)
- Raincoat / rain trousers / poncho - Socks / underwear
- Trekking trousers - After trekking trousers & t-shirt
- Good, well worn -in walking boots - After trek shoes (sandals)
- Ski poles & protective covers (Optional) - Daysack & raincover
- Large Kit bag for Porter carried items.
Jungle:
- Light weight long sleeved shirt - Light weight long trousers
- Wellington boots / Walking boots - Change of evening clothes & shoes
- Raincoat & Fleece jacket - Binoculars
- Insect Repellent (High DEET content is best)
The best way to keep biting insects at bay is by keeping covered up with long sleeved light-weight clothes.
Please note:
· Whilst trekking the porters carry all your heavy camping gear but this is inaccessible during the day so please bring a small day-pack to carry your personal day gear in - ie water-bottle, iodine tablets, camera, sun-block, insect repellent, light fleece and rain jacket.
· Due to new Inca trail rules limiting the porters to 20Kg weight and the number of porters to two per person, we have to limit your heavy gear to 10Kg per person - this is usually more than adequate. Kit bags are provided, when required, from the office for your Inca trail trip.
· Any excess gear may be stored in the vehicle whilst canoeing and at your hotel in Cusco whilst trekking & rafting.
· Inca trail regulations stipulate Ski poles are only allowed with PLASTIC PROTECTING COVERS. This is to prevent trail damage.
· We implement a 'porter protection policy' that ensures all porters are well treated, paid, fed and looked after.
· Most good quality sporting equipment is unavailable in Peru so if anyone wishes to donate any outdoor clothes, sleeping bags etc they will be gratefully received by any of our staff.
· Amazonas Explorer also supports the recognised Scottish charity www.dentalprojectperu.org . This is founded by past client Jacqui Nimmo.

RECOMMENDED READING
The White Rock by Hugh Thomson,
Running the Amazon by Joe Kane.
Exploring Cusco by Peter Frost
The Inca Trail by Richard Danbury
Field guide to the birds of Machu Picchu by Barry Walker
Neo-tropical companion by John C Kricher
Exploration Fawcett - Colonel Percy Harrison Fawcett (Century 1988)
The bridge of San Luis Rey by Thorton Wilder
Conquest of the Incas by John Hemmingway
Into the forests of the night by John Simpson
Touching the void by Joe Simson
Heart of the Amazon - Yossi Ghinsberg
Inca Kola - Matthew Paris
Inca Gold by Clive Cussler
Realm of the Incas - Max Milligan

BOOKING CONDITIONS IMPORTANT
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 we receive your booking form detailing:
Full name, Passport number, Nationality, Date of birth and Occupation without these details we are unable to purchase your Inca trail permit.

2: You must bring with you 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.

AND LASTLY PLEASE NOTE
The "Peru Explorer" 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 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.
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 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 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.

We look forward to seeing you in Peru.