Traverse the Sacred Valley from Cusco to Machu Picchu via raft, mountain bike and stunning treks An active journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail Raft the rapids of the Urubamba on the finest whitewater in Peru Saddle up for a bike ride through the Sacred Valley of the Incas Lovely Lares Valley hike alternative should Inca Trail permits sell out HOLIDAY CODE MPM Peru, Trek & Walk, Multi-Activity, 9 Days 3 nights camping, 5 nights hotel, 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 3 dinners, max group size: 16, 4 days trekking, 2 days multi-activity, max altitude - 4212m VIEW DATES, PRICES & BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY HERE
PAGE 2 Introduction Raft, trek and cycle your way through the 'Land of the Incas' on this Inca-redible multi-activity holiday in Peru! After sightseeing in and around the cosmopolitan city of Cusco, this amazing multi-active holiday begins with an exhilarating day s rafting on the Urubamba River. Continuing our exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, we visit the colourful Indian craft market at Pisac and have the option to complete one of the best one-day bike rides in the Andes. After meeting our trek crew we hike for 4 days on the undulating and continually impressive Inca Trail. This is one of the great walks of the world and the famous ancient paved pathway of the Incas criss-crosses the Andes to arrive at Machu Picchu at the Sun Gate, the most famous vantage point for the ancient citadel. The Inca Trail is deservedly a popular hike and permits for it sell out each year (see info below) should this be the case when you book we are able to offer a spectacular trek through the Lares Valley instead. This trek is a fabulous mixture of spectacular mountain scenery, glacial lakes, high plains and charming Andean villages. The off-thebeaten track route also offers the opportunity for close encounters with real Andean village life as the route passed through several Quechua communities, something that is not a feature of the Inca Trail, and culminates with the Km 104 walk to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu! Arriving at Machu Picchu, there is an interpretive guided tour and time to soak up the atmosphere of this unique location, before taking the world-famous train ride back to Cusco. BOOK EARLY for the Inca Trail! The strict rules governing the issue of Inca Trail permits mean that these are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. 2018 Inca Trail permits went on sale in October 2017, earlier than ever before and, with only 500 permits per day on offer (including those for crew), they are disappearing fast. Inca Trail permits are included in the cost of the holiday, make your booking today and our dedicated team in Cusco will be ready and waiting to make all the arrangements for you. Explore International. This holiday is part of our Explore International range. Participants on these trips can book through KE or through one of our international partners. This helps us to gather together sufficient numbers of like-minded adventurers to get your holiday up and running quickly. Led by an English-speaking guide, the cosmopolitan nature of these groups can be an important part of the experience! Is this holiday for you? Our trek on the classic Inca Trail offers a variety of trekking conditions. Most of the walking is on well-defined tracks, including some sections of ancient Inca highways, which are paved with stone in places. There are some steeper sections of trail on the first two days of the trek. There are a couple of quite tough days - but, overall the trekking is straightforward. Conditions are similar for the Lares Trek alternative, which has a high pass crossing at 4450m, slightly higher than the highest pass on the Inca Trail, Dead Woman's Pass at 4200m. Note that there are only 2 nights spent camping on the Lares Trek, whereas there are 3 on the Inca Trail. During the optional biking day we will be following jeep roads, with some sections of paved road and some sections of footpath and singletrack. The biking is principally downhill or on the level. It is not strenuous or technically difficult. The Urubamba River, on the stretches that we will encounter, involves white-water rafting which varies between Grade 1 and 3+, and in high water up to IV. The most challenging rapids that we run will be quite exciting for beginners to the sport. Comprehensive instruction is given by our professional river guides prior to setting off and full safety equipment is used.
PAGE 3 Holiday Itinerary Day 1: Meet at the group hotel in Cusco. A single timed transfer from Cusco airport is provided. Arriving in the former Inca capital of Southern Peru, we are met by our guide or a KE representative who will arrange the short transfer (20 mins) to the group hotel. As we are now at an altitude of 3200 metres, we spend most of today taking it easy in order to acclimatise to the rarefied air. We can try the local altitude remedy, coca tea. In the afternoon there is the option of taking a relaxing walking tour of the city. This short walking tour is a great way to get orientated and begin to acclimatise to the altitude. The group will rendez-vous at Cusco's Coffee Museum at 1pm to enjoy lunch and learn about the local production of coffee beans. After lunch we will begin a relaxed walking tour of the city taking in the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral and the Qoricanha Temple of the Sun. The historic centre was declared a World Heritage Site in 1983 and every small street or alley-way that we enter and every corner that we turn brings another surprise in the form of superbly constructed Inca walls or the rather more architecturally extravagant Spanish Colonial churches and palaces. Should there be time or inclination we may also visit the San Pedro food market. If you normally shop in a supermarket you are in for a surprise. Stalls of exotic fruits, cow's heads and sheep hooves run by colourful local ladies make for a fun visit. This is a great place to try homemade cheeses, local breads, juices and soups. In the evening there is time to relax and enjoy dinner in one of Cusco's excellent restaurants. ACCOMMODATION HOTEL MEALS L Day 2: Raft the Urubamba River to Pisac in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Today the fun begins as we shoot the Grade II-III rapids of the upper reaches of the Rio Urubamba, the river that runs through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the heartland of the ancient Inca Empire. The drive from Cusco over the altiplano to the Sacred Valley is a stunning journey through fields cultivated by local campesinos before the scenery becomes more dramatic on the approach to the steep-sided Urubamba valley and the rafting entry point. Expert guides will give a thorough safety briefing and outfit everyone with the best equipment available in Peru so all feel fully prepared before launching from the bank into the river and down the finest one day section of whitewater in Peru. Whether a total novice or an expert, the day will leave everyone grinning ear to ear! Once you have changed into dry clothes a delicious picnic lunch will be served on the riverbank before the short drive to Pisac where there is a famous handicraft market. On arrival there will be time to explore the market and hone your bargaining skills before dinner. ACCOMMODATION HOTEL MEALS BL Day 3: Biking in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Starting the day with another stroll around Pisac (shopping optional) we unload the bikes to saddle up for a dirt track ride through the Sacred Valley. This ride is perfect for anyone who enjoys getting out on a bike and the route can be adapted to suit every level and age. The ride is also incredibly scenic combining Andean mountain passes and gentle descents with an amble through the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. After getting all kitted up (helmets and gloves are provided) and everyone set up on full-suspension cross country bikes it's time to start riding. Descending to the Andean village of Taray the lovely dirt track undulates through local hamlets and haciendas where traditional farming methods are still in use. The glaciated peaks and Inca ruins make for a dramatic backdrop. We will stop for a picnic lunch en-route and the support vehicle will be on hand for the final section allowing us to continue through the villages Qoya, Lamay and Calca. If anyone is feeling really strong we can continue to Urubamba or even to Ollantaytambo where we will spend the night.
PAGE 4 ACCOMMODATION HOTEL ASCENT 250M DISTANCE 33KM GPS DATA VIEW NOW MEALS BL DESCENT 350M Day 4: Ollantaytambo visit and begin the Inca Trail (or Lares Trek alternative). This morning we'll enjoy a visit to the old Inca town of Ollantaytambo, located beneath the ruins of an impressive Inca fortress which was placed to protect the entrance to the lower Urubamba Valley. The village is the best surviving example of Inca town-planning and is divided into blocks, or canchas. Each cancha has only one entrance, usually via a stone doorway, leading into a central courtyard which is surrounded by houses. Our Inca Trail route has been carefully tailored to miss the crowds. By leaving in the afternoon, and taking 5 days for the trail, we will be out of sync with the majority of other trekkers. After exploring the town we'll enjoy lunch before driving to the Inca Trail gateway at Pisacuchco (Km 82) to meet up with the porters and crew who will support our journey to Machu Picchu. Hiking along an undulating trail alongside the Rio Urubamba, we arrive at camp at Llactapata (2788m) in the late afternoon. With luggage carried by porters, tents erected before arrival at camp and delicious food prepared by expert cooks, all you have to do is enjoy the walking. LARES TREK ALTERNATIVE - Acclimatisation hike to Inca Tombs A scenic two hour drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas takes us to the start of the trek, at the small village of Totora. Our acclimatisation hike today follows an ancient Inca Trail into a narrow canyon where Inca tombs perch in the cliffs. Emerging through the canyon we pass through some rural Quechua communities before arriving to our scenic lunchspot where we enjoy a delicious picnic lunch. Thereafter we will board our bus for the short drive to the traditional village at Quisharani (3700m) where we will set up camp for the night. ACCOMMODATION CAMPING MEALS BLD ASCENT 260M DESCENT 350M DISTANCE 10KM TIME 5-6 HRS TREKKING HOURS GPS DATA VIEW NOW Day 5: Trek the Inca Trail to Llulluchapampa (3680m) or the Lares alternative to Huacahuasi (3750m). After a hearty breakfast we leave for our 800m ascent up the Cusichaca Valley to the small hamlet of Huayllabamba, the last inhabited place on the Inca Trail. There are great views of Huayanay during this part of our walk and we will also see many species of orchid, as well as some of the more than 250 varieties of hummingbirds that can be found in the Machu Picchu National Park. The path gets gradually steeper to the campsite at Llulluchapampa (3680m), a beautifully grassy area with outstanding views. If you are lucky, you may even see one of the Andean deer that occasionally graze close by. LARES TREK ALTERNATIVE - Trek through Andean villages to Huacahuasi Today is a stunning day of trekking. Leaving camp behind we climb up through the valley, past colourfully dressed local people, and through recently replanted native forest which are home to Andean deer, viscachas and several rare bird species. The path pushes uphill to the Huchayccasa Pass (4450m) from where there are stunning views of azure blue lakes and the snowy peaks of the Urumamba Mountains. Descending through hand-turned fields of potato we eventually arrive at the ancient community of Cuncani at 3800m. After a hearty lunch, we will descend to the valley floor to the village of Huacahuasi. Once home to cattle rustlers, it is now a peaceful place to spend the night. You are sure to be visited by local women selling the hand woven textiles for which the area is famous.
PAGE 5 ACCOMMODATION CAMPING ASCENT 1230M DISTANCE 11KM GPS DATA VIEW NOW MEALS BLD DESCENT 130M TIME 7-8 HRS TREKKING HOURS Day 6: Cross Dead Woman's Pass (4212m) to Phuyupatamarca (3650m) or the Lares alternative to Patacancha (3700m) then Ollantaytambo. After breakfast, we start the hour and a half climb towards the Dead Woman's Pass (4200m), Huarmiwanusca in Quechua, which affords superb views of Huayanay to the south and also of the Pacaymayo Valley, which lies in front of us, to the west. Dropping down into this valley takes about two hours and then we start the ascent to Runccuracay, a small Inca "tambo" or inn. We then continue our trek, climbing to the Runccuracay Pass (3998m) where, weather permitting, we should have great views of the Vilcabamba range in the far distance. The trail here becomes wider, now paved with the original Inca stones, and weaves through a forest which is becoming ever more luxuriant. We make a short detour to climb the 98 steps which lead up to Sayacmarca "the place with a dominant view" - an impressive Inca ruin which looks out towards the Aobamba Valley. Continuing our descent, we pass the small Inca site known as Qonchamarca and then climb to the so-called "third pass," trekking through magnificent forests (and also negotiating a tunnel carved by the Incas) to our next campsite at Phuyupatamarca (3650m). The translation of the Quechua name is "the place above the cloudes" which sums up the magnificent views of Salcantay (6271m), Humantay (5800m) and the whole Vilcabamba range. LARES TREK ALTERNATIVE - Cross a high pass and descend to Patacancha After breakfast we set off for our final challenge as we climb gently towards the last pass crossing. This is a day filled with encounters with the colourful local Quechua people, descendants of the Inca. Strong legged men head off to work in the potato fields, with wooden ploughs slung over their shoulders whilst the ladies sit and weave traditional clothes on wooden hand looms. The small children are often charged with guarding the herds of alpaca and llama that graze the pastures. Lying at 4200m, the Ipsaycocha Pass marks the border between the Lares and Patacancha valleys. On a clear day there are spectacular views of Mt Veronica from the pass. We will take lunch just after the pass crossing on the shores of Lake Ipsay before following the ancient path that winds down into the Patacancha Valley where our trek ends. Our waiting vehicle takes us to our overnight hotel accommodation in Ollantaytambo. ACCOMMODATION CAMPING MEALS BLD ASCENT 1140M DESCENT 1130M DISTANCE 12KM TIME 7-8 HRS TREKKING HOURS GPS DATA VIEW NOW Day 7: Arrive at Machu Picchu via Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. We make an early start to catch the sunrise. If we are lucky, we will see the dawn rays over the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay (6200m) and Veronica (5800m) or perhaps there will be a spectacular cloud inversion with the clouds filling the valleys below. Then, after breakfast, we say farewell to our porters and kitchen crew and begin the descent of the more than 3000 steps which lead down to the beautiful settlement of Winay Huayna, a name which means eternally young. A detour away from the main trail leads to this wonderful citadel overlooking the Urubamba River. A further hour of descent and a final 30 minute climb, takes us to the famous Inti Punku, or Sun Gate, where we will have our first, and most impressive view, of Machu Picchu, the famous lost city of the Incas. Passing through the Sun Gate, we descend past the citadel itself after savouring the moment and taking the classic photo we pass through the ruins and catch the bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes (2040m) where we spend the night at our hotel. This little town has a lively atmosphere with a souvenir market and a range of good
PAGE 6 restaurants and bars. LARES TREK ALTERNATIVE - Trek KM104 trail to the Sun Gate We make an early start to catch the train to Machu Picchu. Jumping off at Km 104 we will pass through the control point before beginning the official one-day Inca Trail. En route we will visit the ruins at Chachabambo before gradually ascending through tropical cloud forest up towards Winay Wayn where we take our packed lunch. Continuing on through cloudforest up perhaps the loveliest part of the Inca Trail we will finally reach the staircase that leads to Inti Punku, the gateway of the Sun. After taking the classic photos we will pass through the ruins and take the bus to the lively town of Aguas Calientes on the banks of the Urubamba River. ACCOMMODATION HOTEL MEALS BL ASCENT 300M DESCENT 1500M DISTANCE 11KM TIME 5-6 HRS TREKKING HOURS GPS DATA VIEW NOW Day 8: Explore Machu Picchu and return to Cusco. Today we visit Machu Picchu, the site that was lost to the jungle but rediscovered in 1911 by the Yale academic, Hiram Bingham. Declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1983, Machu Picchu exceeds all expectations. Perched high on an inaccessible hilltop the citadel is protected by huge cliffs and the raging Urubamba River. The bus journey up to the site takes around 20 minutes and saves us from the relentlessly steep climb. A local guide will give us an interpretive tour of Machu Picchu and we will have ample time to soak up the mystical atmosphere of this incredible site. After the tour of the main buildings and structures with our expert guide, we can walk to the Inca Bridge, discover hidden corners of the ruins, or just soak up the atmosphere of one of the most famous places on earth. We return back down to Aguas Calientes in time to catch an afternoon train back to Cusco. We check into our hotel and have time to enjoy a final evening in the city. ACCOMMODATION HOTEL MEALS B Day 9: Departure Day. A single timed transfer to Cusco Airport is included. KE land only package services end after breakfast. Depending on the time of your flight, today is free to enjoy further exploration of the city of Cusco before the single-timed transfer to the airport. You can choose to explore, take a cooking class or watch the world go by from one of the cafes. Why not extend your holiday in Peru to include a visit to the Amazon Rainforest, an excursion to Lake Titicaca or a trip to Colca Canyon to watch condors. We can also arrange flights to Ecuador and cruises around the Galapagos Islands. Contact our office for further details. MEALS B Extend Your Holiday Extensions When booking your holiday, you will be able to 'add an extension option'. Once we have received your booking we will contact you to discuss additional services required for the extension and to take any additional deposit.
PAGE 7 Galapagos Islands Extension The Galapagos Islands are said to be the crown jewels of the natural world. These paradise islands have a mythological status following Charles Darwin s visit in 1835. Blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, albatross, giant tortoises, seals,turtles, dinosaur-like marine and land iguanas are just a few of the species you will encounter. Part of the magic of the Galapagos is getting up close to the wildlife that has lost all fear of man. Please call us for an accurate quote for your departure. Galapagos Islands Extension 5 days From 2635 per person Lake Titicaca By Bus Forming part of the border between Peru and Bolivia, this sacred lake of the Incas at an elevation of 3830 metres was where the god Viracocha rose and created the sun, moon, stars and the first people. It is the largest navigable lake in the world. There are several islands in the lake including the floating Uros Islands which are man-made from reeds and are home to a pre-incan people who live a simple traditional life. We travel by comfortable tour bus across the altiplano from Cusco to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Lake Titicaca by Bus 4 days From 390 per person Peru Rainforest Extension Visit Tambopata National Reserve, a haven of pristine Amazon wilderness where the river provides access to an uninhabited and vast 2.5 million acre area, home to the Amazon s five top predators Jaguar, Giant Otter, Black Caiman, Harpy Eagle and Anaconda. It is a short flight to Puerto Maldonado, and then a ride in a motorised canoe to our jungle lodge. Highlights are the macaw clay-lick, otters, monkeys and an array of colourful birds.
PAGE 8 Peru Rainforest Extension 4 days From 665 per person Lake Titicaca By Train Forming part of the border between Peru and Bolivia, this sacred lake of the Incas at an elevation of 3830 metres was where the god Viracocha rose and created the sun, moon, stars and the first people. It is the largest navigable lake in the world. There are several islands in the lake including the floating Uros Islands which are man-made from reeds and are home to a pre-incan people who live a simple traditional life. We travel by luxury train across the altiplano from Cusco to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Note: Train operates on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays only. Lake Titicaca by Train 4 days From 690 per person Holiday Information What's Included Professional English-speaking local guides Single timed airport transfers Twin-share accommodation as described Meals as detailed in the Meal Plan Inca Trail Permit and entrance to Machu Picchu / Lares Valley fees Guided tour of Machu Picchu All camping equipment (including thermarest style mattress) excluding personal equipment Inca Trail trek crew including guides cook and porters All rafting equipment together with professional river guides (trained in first aid swift water rescue) Mountain bikes/bike gloves and helmets All rail and road transfers What's Not Included Travel Insurance Tips for porters and other trek staff Cusco Airport transfers (other than the specified single timed transfers) Some meals as detailed in the Meal Plan Airport departure taxes (if applicable) Miscellaneous personal expenses
PAGE 9 Joining Arrangements & Transfers A single timed group transfer from Cusco Airport to the accommodation is provided. This transfer is timed to meet passengers arriving on the flight from London in the afternoon. At the end of the holiday a single timed airport transfer is included back to Cusco Airport and is timed for the flight to London via Lima which leaves after lunch. Land only clients must provide the KE office with full details of their flights and should let us know if airport transfers are not required. Private transfers are available; please call the office for details. Hotel contact details and an emergency number will be provided with your booking confirmation. Meal Plan All breakfasts, 7 lunches and 3 dinners are included in the trip price. Where there are a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets it is sensible to leave this choice to you and therefore we have not included meals (other than breakfasts) while staying in Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Pisac and Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). You will need to pay for a total of 2 lunches and 5 dinners. While trekking a full trek service including all meals is provided. Food & Water Dietary Requirements Whilst we can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, we cannot provide special diets. Due to the nature of the trips that we operate and the countries in which we operate them, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you may have to supplement your diet with food/snacks from home. If you have specific dietary requirements please do speak to our sales team and they will be able to advise you whether or not we will be able to offer your specific choice. Please note that we are unable to provide separate menus and cannot accept liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements or intolerances. On trek the food provided will be a mixture of local and worldwide favourites, with all ingredients purchased in Peru and cooked for us by highly trained staff cooks. The food our cooks are able to produce on trek will be a taste sensation! Lunch is usually a picnic - fresh fruit, salad and bread, cheeses, cold meats, avocado and plenty to drink. Dinners will be three courses and the menus will be flavoursome and varied. There will be no problem catering for vegetarians. In Cusco, Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes there is a wide range of restaurants cafes and bars serving excellent and varied cuisine! Meals, apart from breakfast, are not included here so you are free to make your own choice of restaurant and menu. If you are looking to sample some traditional Peruvian fare we can recommend trying Ceviche, a dish of raw fished marinated in citrus juice (the acid in the citrus juice effectively cooks the fish), which is the unofficial national dish of Peru! The name Ceviche actually comes from the Quechua word siwichi, meaning fresh fish. Guinea Pig or Cuy is also a common delicacy in the Andes and has been eaten at special occasions since the time of the Incas! Usually served roasted or barbequed, Guinea Pig meat has a gamey taste. It is very high in protein and low in cholesterol. When it comes to drinks, before and during your trek we can recommend drinking Mate de Coca. It takes a little time to acclimatise to Cusco s 3400m elevation and one of the things that is said to help acclimatisation is supping this mildly stimulating, greenish and unusual tasting tea made by steeping fresh coca leaves in boiling water. Those looking to celebrate the end of their holiday with an alcoholic beverage (best saved till post trek when you are fully acclimatised!) should seek out a Pisco Sour. This classic South American cocktail, made by mixing the Peruvian liquor Pisco with lime juice, egg white and bitters, is incredibly moreish!
PAGE 10 It is not recommended to drink untreated water from the taps. If you are on a trekking or cycling holiday, water is supplied to fill up your individual bottles. This will be boiled, filtered or provided in large jerry cans or 5 litre bottles. Additionally you should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a Water-To-Go bottle) to treat your water when in towns or where water is not supplied. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles. Accommodation The group will spend a total of 5 nights in comfortable and well located hotels in Cusco (2 nights), Pisac (1 night), Ollantaytambo (1 night) and Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) (1 night). Whilst trekking there will be a total of 3 nights camping where your will receive a full service from our friendly camp crew. You will sleep in roomy 2 man dome tents, with a porch, and inflatable camping mattresses are provided. All the camp equipment and luggage will be transported between camps by horses on the extended trek, and by porters on the Inca Trail, so you need only carry your day pack each day. Our camp crew will erect and dismantle the tents for you, cook, and take care of all the camp chores. During walking days, having stayed behind to collapse camp, it is usual for the crew and the porters and/or pack animals to overtake the group during the day and you will usually arrive into camp to find it already established and the kettle on! In camp, as well as the tents used for sleeping, there will also be a mess tent, with chairs and tables, where the group will dine (and socialise into the evening) and a toilet tent. Hot water for washing will also be provided to you in the mornings and when you arrive at the camp each day. (If you are doing the Lares trek alternative, there are only 2 nights camping and an additional night in a hotel in Ollantaytambo). All accommodation is allocated on a twin-sharing basis. If you are travelling by yourself you will be paired up with another single client of the same sex. It is possible to hire a single tent while on trek for an additional cost. This must be arranged ahead of departure and is subject to availability (please note that single tent hire does not include single rooms in hotels). Depending on availability, it may also be possible to pre-book single hotel rooms. For additional hotel prices and single supplement costs please refer to the dates and prices page of the trip on our website. Group Leader & Support Staff The group will be a separate professional and qualified Tour Leader for each activity section of the trip. For the rafting, the group will be led by expert river guides and will be accompanied by safety kayakers. During the trek the Tour Leader the Inca Trail or in the Lares Valley will be assisted by a crew of porters, cooks and assistant guides where appropriate. A specialist tour guide will accompany the group for the visit to Machu. Altitude This holiday involves going to high altitude. During the course of your trip you will reach altitudes in excess of 3500 metres. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes, but it is important that we follow some simple rules in order to acclimatise successfully. Before coming on this holiday you should read the advice on trekking at high altitude. You can also talk to one of our trekking experts if you have any concerns about altitude. On this trip we carry a portable altitude chamber (PAC-bag) and/or bottled oxygen for use in emergencies. Spending Money
PAGE 11 We estimate that $300 -$350 will be sufficient to cover your requirements including the above mentioned nonincluded meals, and incidental expenses such as tips for drivers, trek crew and local guides. There are a total of 3 lunches and 3 dinners which you will need to pay for directly and we recommend you budget $10 - $25 dollars per meal. There is no need to purchase local currency (Peruvian Soles) prior to travelling. It is possible to withdraw your money in local currency from ATMs in Cusco. If you are bringing your travel money with you we recommend you bring it in the form of US dollars in cash as this provides for the easiest exchange and in emergency can even be used to purchase goods. Credit cards can be used to purchase goods and to pay for meals in Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Pisac and Aguas Calientes. Guidance On Tipping Tipping is common in Peru, however you must remember that it is voluntary, and how much you give depends on how you feel about the service you have received. Airport baggage carriers are the only exception and tipping is compulsory. These people are unwaged and make a living by carrying your luggage. The general rule is 1 or 2 soles per bag. For hotel staff, tipping is not expected, but is welcome. For hotel porters 1 or 2 soles per bag is reasonable. Drivers of standard taxis do not usually expect a tip. As with most countries, it is usual to tip in restaurants and 10% is expected for good service. For the support crew on trek (guides, cooks, porters etc.), it is recommended that each client contributes around 50 to 60 to a group tipping pool. Beat The Jet Lag Our holidays are normally designed with minimal 'down time' at the start of the trip, but having a day or two at the beginning will have the additional benefit of allowing you time to get over the stress of a long journey or travelling across time zones, leaving you refreshed and ready for your holiday. We can easily arrange for you to have additional nights and airport transfers. Free KE Gift We would like to give you a free gift as a way to say thank you when you book your holiday. Choose from exclusive KE branded t-shirts, caps, neckwarmers, trek bags* and more. Alternatively you can choose to make a 10 donation to the Juniper Trust Charity. You can make your selection in your MyKE account after booking. You will need to select your free gift at least 6 weeks before you depart and all items will be posted out at 5 weeks prior to departure. For all late bookings, we will endeavour to send your FREE gift to you before you travel, however this cannot always be guaranteed. Please visit our Free KE Gifts page for more details of all our KE Branded goodies on offer. * A trek bag is one of the free gift options available for this holiday. Delivery outside of the UK will be charged. Baggage Allowance For this holiday you should take one piece of luggage and a daypack. Pack animals are not allowed on the Inca Trail and all baggage will be carried by porters. Each group on the Inca Trail is restricted to a maximum number of porters designated by the park authority. The limit is imposed by the Peruvian National Park Authorities and is designed to minimise the impact on the Inca Trail from the many visitors it receives. Before starting on the Inca Trail you will be provided with an approved Inca Trail kit bag (which is smaller than the KE kit bag). Whilst trekking, the packed weight of this bag including your sleeping bag, should be 8kgs. If you are doing the Lares Trek alternative, you will still need to repack your bags but the limit of weight you can carry is slightly more generous. It is possible to leave clothes and other items not required on trek at the group hotel in Cusco. For international flights please check your baggage allowance with your airline.
PAGE 12 Group Size & Holiday Status For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in Dates and Prices table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status and so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements. Recommended Outdoor Retailers Many of the Equipment items listed above are available from Cotswold Outdoor - our 'Official Recommended Outdoor Retailer'. When you book a holiday with KE you will receive 15% discount voucher from Cotswold Outdoor and other retailers. >> Find out more General Information Passport & Visas A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required for visits to countries outside the EU. The information that we provide is for UK passport holders. Please check the relevant embassy or consulate for other nationalities. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice. If you are travelling outside the EU you should have at least 2 blank pages in your passport for each country that you visit. Transit Via USA Or Canada IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THOSE TRANSITING THROUGH THE USA You will require an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation), and you must get this before boarding any US-bound aircraft or ship, or entering on a land border. The fee is USD$14 and you should apply for it at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/. With the ESTA complete, the majority of British Citizen passport holders can enter the US under the Visa Waiver Programme, VWP. As of 1st April 2016 you will be required to have a passport with an intergrated chip. Note that if you have travelled to Iraq, Syria, Iran or Sudan in the last 5yrs you will have to apply for a visa rather than the Visa Waiver Programme. IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THOSE TRANSITING THROUGH CANADA As of 2016, all citizens (except for USA citizens) will require an eta (Electronic Travel Authorisation), and you must get this before boarding any Canada-bound aircraft or ship, or entering on a land border. The fee is CAD$7 and you should apply for it at http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta-start.asp
PAGE 13 Visa Peru UK and USA passport holders do not require a visa for short stays. When passing through immigration you will need to request a copy of your TAM Migration form. You will need to retain this document and keep it safe, as you will be asked to produce it before you depart Peru. Health & Vaccinations Severe Allergies If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by KE leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen. You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations or other preventive measures. You should be up to date with routine courses and boosters as recommended in the UK e.g. diphtheria-tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella, along with hepatitis A and typhoid. Malarial prophylaxis is not usually required for trips in the mountains, however if you are visiting rural and remote low lying areas then they might be necessary. On holidays to more remote areas you should also have a dentist check up. A good online resource is Travel Health Pro. Zika virus has been confirmed as active in this country. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. The mosquitoes that transmit ZIKV are unlikely to be found above 2,000m altitude. For more information, visit the website of the National Travel Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) at https://travelhealthpro.org.uk Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Currency The unit of currency in Peru is the Nuevos Soles. Electricity Supply & Plug We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at: http://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plugs-and-sockets/ Preparing For Your Holiday It makes a lot of sense to spend some time before coming on a trekking or multiactivity trip getting some additional exercise. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. Our treks can be physically demanding, but more as a result of altitude and terrain than distances walked. We would suggest that you adopt a weekly exercise regime. Running, cycling and swimming are good for developing aerobic fitness and better stamina. You should gradually increase your exercise leading up to departure, and in the month before setting off, we suggest that you try to fit in a number of long walks in hilly country. Climate The climate of Peru is very varied across different regions. For each region the determining factors are its latitude, its distance from the coast and most importantly, its altitude. The climate of the Andean valleys which corresponds
PAGE 14 to the region between 3000 and 4000 metres is characterised by hot wet summers and cool dry winters. The Southern Hemisphere winter season in the Andes runs roughly from April through to October and this is the optimum period for trekking in this part of Peru. At this time we can expect the days to be warm and generally sunny, with temperatures between 12 and 20 C. Above c. 3500m during this season, the night-time temperatures will fall below freezing. At our highest camps we might experience night-time temperatures as low as -5 C at any time and in mid-winter (July and August) temperatures may dip to -10ºC overnight. As with all mountain areas, short-lived storms can occur at any time of the year. Travel Aware As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign & Commonwealth Offices' Travel Aware campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that prior to travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips. KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe. Should the FCO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation. We receive regular updates direct from the FCO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground. If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office. Single Use Plastic KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use. We have pledged to AITO s Project Protect that 70% of our agents stop using single use plastic bottles. Books Trekking and Climbing in the Andes. (Globetrotter Adventure). Val Pitkethly and Kate Harper. The Conquest of the Incas. (MacMillan). J. Hemming. The South American Handbook. The Andes are Prickly. Martin Slessor. Exploring Cusco. Peter Frost (available in Cusco). Inca Cola. Matthew Parish. Latin America Spanish phrasebook. Lonely Planet. Maps Inca Trail Machu Picchu. 1:50,000 Editorial Lima 2000
PAGE 15 This topographic map from the Lima-based publisher Lima 2000 shows the Inca Trail from Kilometre 88 to Machu Picchu. Peak altitudes and shading show relief and the contours interval is 100m. The map shows towns and villages, roads and footpaths, rivers, ruins, terraces etc. A small inset shows a street plan of Aguas Calientes, another shows the Machu Picchu ruins. Flight Information Flight Inclusive Or Land Only? On our website we display a UK Flight inclusive package price and Land only package price for the majority of our holidays. Flight Inclusive Notes The FLIGHT INCLUSIVE dates and prices are based on UK flights from London to Cusco with Avianca. Outbound flights will depart the UK in the evening, arriving the following day (day 1 of the itinerary). Return flights will usually depart Cusco airport in the afternoon of the last day of the itinerary, arriving in the UK in the afternoon of the following day. Regional departures and/or alternative carriers are available on request. Please be aware that there are often only a limited number of seats available at the advertised price. To avoid paying flight supplements, we recommend that you book as early as possible, especially during peak times. If we are unable to secure seats at the price shown, or you have requested regional departures, we will contact you with an alternative quote. Please note that you may be asked to pay for your flights in advance of your final holiday balance. Note that if you book a package including flights with KE you will benefit from full financial protection. Land Only Notes The dates shown are for the LAND ONLY itinerary, joining in Cusco, Peru. For clients making their own flight arrangements, Cusco airport is the most convenient for transfers to the group hotel. Please refer to the 'Joining arrangements & transfers' for further details. Flights SHOULD NOT be booked until you have received your booking confirmation and the departure is showing 'Guaranteed to Run' or 'Limited'. Why Choose KE Adventure Travel? Why Choose KE Adventure Travel? Operating since 1984, KE Adventure Travel has some of the most experienced staff in the business, with the proven ability to set up and operate a worldwide programme of adventures. Everyone has adventure travel at heart and joins at least one trip a year. It is this depth of experience that makes KE stand out from other adventure travel operators. When you contact KE, by phone or e-mail, or visit our office, you will find the help and advice you need, from someone who has actually done the trip and can give you the benefit of their first-hand experience. KE can guarantee the very best in trip support, excellent food, a good standard of hotel and other accommodation, plus the back up of one of the most respected companies in the business. Client satisfaction is at the top of our agenda and almost 50% of our bookings each year come from repeat business. If you are looking for adventure then look no further than KE.
PAGE 16 Group Tour Leaders All of our holidays are accompanied by an experienced leader, some of whom have worked with KE groups for many years. Many are professional guides and instructors with an unrivalled knowledge of the areas in which they work. In many parts of the world, we recruit local guides with appropriate training and experience. In addition to having the technical skills to ensure your safety, KE expects its leaders to be active members of the group. A leader should be fun to travel with and ready to share with you their enthusiasm for adventure travel and their knowledge of the area. Alongside the group leader, there will be a local support crew, which could be just a driver, or a complete team of guides, drivers, porters, mule-herders and cooks. The hard work of our support crews, along with the fascinating insight they can offer into their local culture, is integral to providing you with the very best adventure travel experience. Sustainable Tourism Since we ran our first trip in 1984, we have been committed keeping the world's most beautiful places pristine by minimising our environmental impact. Recognising the fragility of the world's wilderness environments, we keep our groups small and operate according to a Mountain Code, which is provided to all groups, trek leaders, agents and staff. We make sure that our local staff are well treated and well paid, we respect indigenous cultures, take care to protect the environment of the places we visit and take every opportunity to make a positive contribution wherever we travel. Our philosophy of 'leaving nothing but footprints' has been integral to KE's approach right from the start over 30 years ago. In recognition of our efforts we are proud to have achieved the highest award of 5 Stars for Sustainable Tourism by AITO. We continue to travel responsibly, and more information on our policy, practice, and specific projects can be found at www.keadventure.com, and on the website of our partner charity the Juniper Trust: www.junipertrust.co.uk. KE's Mountain Code is issued to our staff, trek leaders and overseas agents, and we recommend it to our clients, too! Booking Your Holiday The easiest way to make your booking is online. You will need to pay a deposit at the time of booking. This is normally 200 but for some holidays with special permit fees or internal flights, this may be more. The amount of deposit required for an individual holiday is given on the dates and prices page of the holiday. Late bookings will require full payment. We cannot confirm any booking until we receive your fully completed booking form. Adventure Travel Insurance It is a condition of joining any of our trips that you are insured against medical and personal accident risks (to include repatriation costs, air ambulance and helicopter rescue services). We also strongly recommend that you take out holiday cancellation insurance, as all deposits paid are non-refundable. Please ensure that your insurer is aware of your KE Adventure itinerary and can agree to cover the activities being undertaken. You will then need to advise us of your policy details and complete an Insurance Declaration Form. CAMPBELL IRVINE DIRECT travel insurance is available to EU residents and will cover the majority of KE Adventure holidays. It has been designed to provide cover for activities normally excluded by other insurers such as trekking, mountain biking and climbing. Please note that certain activities may attract a higher premium. In addition Campbell Irvine Direct cannot provide cover for KE climbing trips above 6000m. Cover for these can be obtained through either the British Mountaineering Council (BMC) or Snowcard. TRAVELEX is a USA based insurer offering travel insurance, which can be used by US citizens and US residents only. KE recommends the "Travelex Select" package for our holidays. If your holiday involves using mountaineering equipment (ropes, harness or crampons), for climbing or glacial travel, you should consider the "Adventure Plus
PAGE 17 Pak" optional upgrade on the Travelex Select Plan. Please refer to the 'Description of Coverage' for a summary of the terms, conditions, exclusions and limitations of the applicable Protection Plan. This policy will also cover KE climbing trips above 6000m. We hope that this trip notes has answered most of your questions. Please feel free to contact us and speak to one of our experts.
PAGE 18 Equipment List The following checklist should help you with your packing. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum. For conservation reasons, the packed weight of your kit bag (including your sleeping bag) when trekking on the Inca Trail is limited to a maximum of 8 kgs. A small duffel bag will be provided for your baggage whilst trekking the Inca Trail. Items not required on trek can be stored in your main luggage at the group hotel in Cusco. YOU MUST BRING THE FOLLOWING ITEMS: Hiking boots Socks Trainers (for camp use and mountain biking) Sandals (for rafting) wetsuits and splash jackets are provided Trekking trousers Waterproof over-trousers Underwear Baselayer shirts (2 short sleeve, 2 long sleeve) Casual shirts and/or T-shirts Fleece jacket or warm jumper Waterproof jacket Swim wear (for rafting) Sunhat Warm hat Sunglasses Gloves or mittens Sleeping Bag (comfort rated -5ºC)*** Daypack 30 litres* Headtorch and spare batteries Water bottles 1 Litre (x2) (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic) Water purification tablets Washbag and toiletries Antibacterial handwash Small towel Selection of dry bags (to keep kit bag contents dry) Small padlock Basic First Aid Kit including: Antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, insect repellent, diarrhoea treatment (Imodium), Diamox, painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite). THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE OPTIONAL: Down jacket Trekking poles ** (recommended) Sleeping bag liner Trainers or similar for camp use Thermal baselayer leggings Cycling Shorts Shorts