Based in southern Peru, this adventure features a spectacular fully supported 8 day trek in the remote and stunningly beautiful Vilcanota Range. The optional ascent of Campa, a 5,500m trekking peak en-route, hot-springs, stunning mountain scenery and turquoise lakes make this one of Peru’s finest trekking circuits.
Acclimatisation walks around Cusco, a tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the delights of Cusco plus the classic train journey to the sacred Inca site of Machu Picchu complete this demanding yet rewarding tour.
Joining the tour
On booking, you will be sent the following information: name and
address of Lima hotel, advice on how to get there and time of
rendezvous with tour leader.
Itinerary details
Note: If circumstances dictate, certain details, such as overnight
stops, may vary from those shown in the day-by-day itinerary below.
Day 1
Join the tour in Lima. (1 night hotel)
Day 2
We take an early flight from the Pacific coast to Cusco, nestled at 3400 m in the Huatanay valley, and have all of today and tomorrow to absorb its unique atmosphere while adapting to the altitude. Afternoon city walking tour
Day 3
Cuzco's past is a fusion of indigenous and Spanish colonial,
as is seen in the way perfectly interlocking Inca stonework
juxtaposes with whitewashed, red-tiled houses and huge churches.
Cuzco is a great city to lose yourself in, amid its labyrinthine
alleyways and teeming markets.
Just outside the town, and easily accessible on foot, are some
spectacular archaeological sites such as the stunning Sacsayhuaman,
a monumental temple-fortress of pharaonic proportions made up of
precisely fitting stones, some weighing upward of 200 tons!
Further
afield, and easily reached by local bus, is the town of
Pisac, with its fascinating twice-weekly produce and crafts market
as well as the nearby citadel of Pisaqa, featuring the most
impressive Inca agricultural terraces in the area.
Today we head into the Sacred Valley of the Incas for more acclimatization walks and Inca history. The extensive ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, further emphasise the organization and building skills, of this once powerful empire. We return to Cusco to pack and prepare for the big trek ahead. (B / L)
In the evening you may wish to seek out one of many Andean folk
bands frequenting the lively 'penas' for which Cuzco is renowned.
Day 4
This fully supported trek of approximately 80 km, takes us right around the massif of Ausangate at altitudes of between 3800 and 5100 metres. We see large herds of domesticated camelids (llamas and alpacas) tended by the local Quechua-speaking Indians; for centuries they have relied on the camelids for wool, protein, transport and fuel. As we traverse the wilderness, we may well spot some wild Andean fauna too: viscacha (large rodent), fox, deer, vicuña (elusive wild camelid) and the Andean condor, largest land bird in the world.
From Cusco we have a beautiful drive of several hours to reach the starting point of our trek, the small highland village of Tinqui. We meet up with our trekking team and camp the first night near the village, and then head south towards the imposing form of Mount Ausangate (6372 metres). (B / L / D)
The next week will be spent marvelling at the stunning scenery as we circumnavigate the massif anti-clockwise; crossing grassy meadows, passing cascading waterfalls and blue glacial lakes, and negotiating some demanding high pases.
Day5
Our second night will be spent camping near the settlement of Upis. Beyond here there is little human habitation. (B / L / D).
Day 6
On the morning of the third day we ascend to the first high pass, we skirt the western shoulder of Ausangate at Arapa pass (4,800m). The colourful moon like rock formations are in stark contrast to the white beauty of Ausangate. Our afternoon's descent we pass the spectacular Lake Uchuy Pucacocha and its waterfalls before arriving at our campsite beside the turquoise waters of Lake Jatan Pucacocha. (4,700m) (B / L / D)
A major provider of snowmelt waters to lake Sabinacocha, and thence to the Sacred Valley, this giant snow peak has for millenia been a highly revered Apu (mountain god). Indeed, during Inca times, the Emperor would bestow huge offerings of gold upon it in order to secure its favours. Today it is the focal point of Qoyllor Riti, the region's foremost Indian festival. The Palomani (5100 metre) and Campa (5000 metre) passes take us level with glaciers; from the latter pass we can explore nearby ice caves. As we descend from the heights, we approach the tiny settlements of Pacchanta and Yanama. (B / L / D)
Day 7
A day of mainly steady ascent rewards us with the passes of Apuchata (4,900m) and Palomani (5,200m). The beautiful azure lake of Ausangatecocha and a superb view of Ausangate provide the backdrop for today’s trek. We pass through the traditional base camp used for mountain ascents before finishing with a descent to our campsite on the meadow below. Glacial moraines surround our campsite at 4,510m. (B / L / D)
Day 8
We continue up the broad green valley to the small lake of Ticllacocha. More viscachas and hopefully some rare vicuñas should accompany us on our journey. Our last big pass now lies before us. The Campa pass (5050m) is the most impressive on the trek, with glaciers, scree and snow providing a truly big mountain expedition feel. We descend to the meadow below to camp at 4,850m. (B / L / D)
Day 9
Today we have the option to attempt the ascent of Campa, a 5,500m trekking peak. An early start is required to retrace part way up the pass before heading up the steep shale slopes to the edge of the Campa Galcier. Here we don our snow equipment to climb the steep glacier to the summit. Weather and ice conditions dependant, this usually takes a good six hours but the aim is to back in camp for a late lunch. Those who decide not to do Campa peak, will have a rest morning in camp. In the afternoon we have a gentle down hill to the hot-springs at Pachanta (4360m) where we camp and have a chance to soak our exhausted muscles in the lovely hot water pools. (B / L / D)
Day 10
Leaving the hot-springs, we have a steady climb to the picturesque lake Amaccocha. This stunning campsite at 4,665m under the snow capped Nevado Collque Cruz ranges is quite breath-taking. (B / L / D)
Day 11
We climb the steep shoulder to arrive at a stunning panorama of snowy mountains. The next pass (4,940m) brings our first glimpse of the impressive turquoise waters of the lake Singrenacocha and the most impressive view of the trip so far. A side hike to the mountain lakes of Mullucocha in their amphitheatre setting brings us down to on the shores of lake (4,390m) and our most scenic campsite. (B / L / D)
Day 12
On our final day’s trekking we wander along the shores of the lake before following its exit river down to the trailhead where our bus will be waiting for us (4237m). After lunch we wave goodbye to the mules and our trekking team to begin the long drive back to Cusco, where hot showers and cold beers await. (B / L)
Day 13
After a well deserved lie-in, there is so much to see and do in Cusco that we dedicate a whole day to doing just that. Whether your interest is exploring Inca ruins, visiting Colonial churches, bargain hunting in Indian markets or just relaxing over a cappuccino on a terrace overlooking the main Plaza, Cusco has it all. (B).
Day 14
A chance to visit the famous Machu Picchu. The early morning luxury train from Cusco will take you to this famous citadel high above the Sacred Urubamba river. Fully guided tour with plenty of 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 board the afternoon train Aguas Calientes 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).
Day 15
Transfer to airport and fly Lima in time for your international flights home. (B)
Check our Books and Maps section where you will find a range of literature to help you get the most out of your South American adventure.
Our Price Includes:
All airport transfers, internal flights, transport to and from the trail in private vehicle, all camping and cooking equipment including thermarests, spacious two person tents, dining, cook and toilet tent, first-aid kit including oxygen, professional English and Spanish speaking guides trained in first-aid and C.P.R., mules, cook team, entrance ticket to Choquequirao, good quality 3* hotels in Lima and Cusco and all meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
Not Included:
International flights, climbing kit needed for Campa (boots, crampons, ice-axe, harness, sling, 2 screw-gatecarabiners), personal belongings, sleeping bag, airport taxes (USD5 local, USD28 international), personal expenses and tips. Day rooms in Lima on final day are not included but can also be organised if required.
Practical information
Small groups mean flexibility and informality. Your tour leader will
be on hand to iron out any problems and give informed advice on
things to do, where to eat etc. In towns we use clean, comfortable
hotels. In little-visited wilderness areas, accommodation is more
simple. When camping we use two person lightweight tents. On the
ride and trek, all equipment is transported for us and meals are
prepared by our local cook.
Fitness and experience
In order to get the most out of the tour you
should be in good physical condition. It is not easy to grade the
fitness level required for the biking expedition and trek, since it
is a subjective matter. However, we recommend you get in plenty of
biking time before departure.
We will trek up to eight hours per day, and treks will involve several long
ascents and descents. NB On the trek all personal belongings other than a
day-pack are carried for you. You are only expected to carry your
day-pack.
Altitude
Shortness of breath is normal when first arriving at
altitude. Acclimatisation time is built into the tour programme. The
highest point on the trek, 4830m, but
we will be camping below that level.
Climate
Peru is located entirely within the tropics, but the
climate varies significantly according to season and geographical
zone.
Coast
May to October damp and misty but very little rain. (Average
day/night temperature in Lima 20C/13C)
December to March warm and sunny.
Highlands
May to October sunny days and chilly evenings. Best time for walking
in the mountains. (Average day/night temperature in Cuzco 21C/3C)
(N.B. at higher altitudes temperatures can drop well below freezing
at night, and the sun is very strong).
December to March rainy season.
Visas
Currently, no visa is required by British citizens visiting
Peru, but your passport must be valid for at least six months after
the date of travel. Non-British passport holders should check visa
requirements with the Peruvian Embassy. All requirements are subject
to change and should be confirmed before departure.
Vaccinations
Please check with your doctor or travel clinic for
latest advice as requirements are subject to change. Vaccinations
for yellow fever, typhoid, tetanus, hepatitis and polio are
recommended and malaria precautions are needed for visiting jungle
areas.
Personal expenses
We recommend you carry funds in US dollars cash
(mixed denomination, unmarked and undamaged bank notes) and US
dollar travellers cheques, which can be changed in larger towns and
typically incur a 3% commission. Cash cards are also useful as ATM
machines are available in most large towns visited on this
itinerary. Credit cards can be used in some restaurants and for
obtaining cash in certain banks.
The cost of the tour includes all meals while on the biking and
trekking expeditions and all breakfasts elsewhere, but you will need
money to cover: other meals, snacks and drinks (approximately 30-50%
cheaper than Europe); handicrafts; airport tax ($31 international,
$6 national); optional excursions (rafting $45); extra entrance
fees; tips; laundry etc.
International Flights
We can arrange your international flights at
competitive rates through our ATOL-bonded agency. Approximate prices
are shown on the Dates and Prices sheet sent with the brochure.
Insurance
Your insurance policy must cover you against medical
expenses and repatriation. If you do not purchase insurance from us,
please ensure it covers all activities you will be participating in,
including trekking, mountain biking and white-water rafting if
applicable. Please send us a copy of your policy as soon as possible
after booking.
Luggage & Equipment
Bring a main piece of lockable luggage to be
left in the Cusco hotel while you are biking and trekking. For the
ride and trek, re-pack into a kit bag, holdall or rucksack. This
will contain your sleeping bag, torch, toiletries, changes of
clothes, spare footwear etc. It will be transported for you by
vehicle (biking expedition) and donkey/porter (trek). You will also
require a day-pack to carry items you need to hand. For the biking
expedition, bike and helmet are provided. Bring your own cycling
gloves and cycling shorts/trousers.
(Please let us know if you'd like to be sent a comprehensive
equipment list).
Optional extensions
If you would like to spend more time in Peru or
neighbouring countries we can arrange this for you. Just some of the
extensions we offer are:
-
High altitude train journey across the altiplano to Lake Titicaca.
-
Journey down the desert coast to the enigmatic Nazca lines.
-
Spanish and/or Quechua language courses in Cuzco year-round.
-
4 day Amazon rainforest expedition into the Tambopata Reserved
Zone.
-
5-9 day jungle expedition into Manu National Park.
Facts and figures: Peru
Population: 25 mill (50% indian, 32% mestizo, 12% white and 2%
black).
Capital city: Lima, population approximately 7.5 million.
Geography: Five times the size of the UK, Peru, the third largest
country in South America, covers 1.28 million sq km. It is bounded
to the N by Ecuador and Colombia, to the E by Brazil and Bolivia, to
the S by Chile, and to the W by the Pacific Ocean.
Economy: Agriculture (33% of economically active popn), fishing and
mining are the traditional sectors of employment, with manufacturing
(10%) increasingly important. The service industry employs 27% of
the workers. Major food crops are rice, maize and potatoes, while
the major cash crops are coca and coffee. Important exports are
copper, zinc, gold, lead, silver and petrol. |
