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INCA TRAIL + PERU INCA
(11 days / 10 nights)
If you wish to visit Lima, Cusco, Amazing Inca Trail to Machupicchu, Sacred
valley of the Incas and Titicaca lake, This is our best offer for you.
DAY 01 LIMA
Reception in the Lima airport and transfer to one Hotel located in Miraflores,
Lima.
DAY 02 CITY TOUR LIMA
We visit the historical center of Lima, including "paseo de la republica",
"Plaza San Martín", the Main Square and the surroundings monuments: " The
goberment palace, the Cathedral, the Archbishop`s Palace; City Hall, the
Desamparados train station, and the Moorish-style houses and balconies along
Lima`s old streets. In the catedral, the tour guide will show you the sacristy,
the side chapels, the impressive Choir seating, and the tomb of Lima`s founder,
Francisco Pizarro. The Next stop is San Francisco convent, with the best
exhibition of Colonial art in Latinoamerica. The tour includes the Choir hall,
the Monk`s library and the sacristy, featuring collection of Zurbaran and Rivera
oil paintings. After visiting the main yard of the cloister to see its fine XVI
century seville styles and Moorish Arches, the tour will proceed to the
underground cripts known as the catacombs. After we will visit the traditional
neighborhood near the San Isidro Golf Club, the olive Grove park and the modern
Larco Mar shopping and the entertaiment complex including the Park of Love where
we will finish with a spectacular sight of the Pacific Ocean. Transfer to the
Hotel and Overnight.
DAY 03 CUSCO CITY TOUR
After an early breakfast, transfer to the airport where we'll take the flight to
Cusco (AIRFARE INCLUDED), upon arrival reception and transfer to your Hotel. In
the afternoon: Cusco City Tour From 14:00 Hr. to 18:30 Hr. This tour includes
the Qoricancha (temple of the sun). The tour drives along the Circumvallation
Road up to famous fortress of Sacsahuaman, Q'enqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay
Including Spanish and English speaking guide. Include Tourist ticket valid for
the entrance to many museums and ruins as well. lodging at your hotel (
Breakfast ).
DAY 04 SACRED VALLEY TOUR
Breakfast. You will be picked up at 8:45Hr. Full day excursion to the Urubamba
Valley visiting: the village of Pisac, a picturesque town of creole and colonial
aspect and its lndian market and craftfair. Lunch provided. In the afternoon
you'll visit to the fortress of Ollantaytambo, an architectural group that in
the days of the Tahuantinsuyo empire was a gigantic agricultural,
administrative, social, religious and military complex, then the Chincero
market. At the end, return to Cusco at 18:30Hr. (Breakfast, Buffet Lunch).
DAY 05 INCA TRAIL TO MACHUPICCHU
Cusco to Wayllabamba 12km (Inca
Trail)
Between 5:00-05:30 am we will pick you up from your hotel and travel by private
bus bus to Piskacuchu (2700m) which is a small community located 82 along the
railroad from Cusco to Machu Picchu (also known simply as km82). Buses normally
stop at the town of Urubamba in the Sacred Valley for about an hour or so to
give people the opportunity to have breakfast. Hikers cross the Vilcanota River
and follow the trail to the right as it climbs steeply up from the river. After
passing through the small village of Miskay, the ruins of the Inca hillfort of
Huillca Raccay come into view high above the mouth of the river Cusichaca
('happy bridge'). It is a simple descent down to the Cusichaca river. From parts
of this trail there are great views of the Cordillera Urubamba and the snow
capped peak of Veronica 5860m. You'll also get a great view over the extensive
Inca ruins of Llactapata (also known as Patallacta on some maps). Llactapata
2750m means 'upper town' in Quechua and was first discovered by Hiram Bingham in
1911 and was primarily an agricultural station used to supply Machu Picchu with
maize, the staple crop of the Incas. The settlement comprised over one hundred
buildings, houses for the workers and soldiers, including five baths. For a
further 7 km the path follows the left bank of the river up to the small village
of Wayllabamba (3,000m). The name in Quechua means 'grassy plain'. This is the
last place along the trek that you can buy snacks and drinks.
DAY 06 Wayllabamba to Pacamayo 12km (Inca Trail)
We will wake up at about 6:00 am and afetr breakfast we will leave Wayllabamba
behind and begin the most difficult part of the trek. Following the left bank of
the Llulluchayoc river for about 1 hour brings you to 'Tres Piedres' (three
stones) and a small bridge over the Huayruro river. The stream is named after
the Huayruro which is an ornamental tree. It's seeds are red and black. Many of
the porters from the Ollantaytambo district are also known as Huayruros because
of their traditional red and black ponchos! A little further on you'll enter a
beautiful cloud forest passing a waterfall. A further three hours trek through
steepening woods and increasingly spectacular terrain brings you to the treeline
and a meadow known as Llulluchapampa (3,680m). It is another 1½ hours climb to
the first and highest pass of the trail (Abra de Huarmihuañusca or 'Dead Woman's
Pass) at 4,200m. Once at the top hikers can celebrate having completed the most
difficult section of the trail. The decent from the pass is steep although not
difficult, following the trail on the left side of the valley to the valley
floor and to the 2nd night's campsite at Pacamayo (3,600m). There are toilet
facilities here.
DAY 07 Pacamayo to Winay Wayna 15km (Inca Trail)
This day is the longest but also the most impressive and most interesting due to
the many Inca ruins that we will visit along the way.
From the campsite at Pacamayo it takes about an hour to climb up to the ruins of
Runkuracay (3800m). These small circular ruins occupy a commanding position
overlooking the Pacamayo valley below. Another 45 minute hike will bring you to
the top of the second pass: Abra de Runkuracay (4,000m). At last you'll feel
that you are walking along the trail of the Incas with paving, for the most
part, being original. The descent down the steps from the pass is steep so take
care. This section of the trail, up till the 3rd pass, is particularly beautiful
as the path crosses high stone embankments and skirts deep precipices. After
about 1 hour from the 2nd pass you'll arrive at Sayacmarca (3624m) by way of a
superbly designed stone staircase. The name Sayacmarca means 'Inaccessible Town'
and describes the position of the ruins perfectly, protected on three sides by
sheer cliffs. No one knows the exact purpose of these ruins. From then on the
path descends into magnificent cloudforest full of orchids, hanging mosses, tree
ferns and flowers, passing through an impressive Inca tunnel, carved into the
rock, on the way. The trail then climbs up to the 3rd pass (3,700m). The view
from the pass offers excellent views of several snow-capped peaks including
Salkantay (6,180m) and Veronica (5,750m). A few minutes after the pass is
Phuyupatamarca, the most impressive Inca ruin so far. The name means 'Town in
the Clouds'. Access to the ruins is down a steep flight of stairs passing six
'Inca Baths' probably used for the ritual worship of water. Leaving the site via
an impressive Inca staircase you descend a thousand or so steps. Be careful with
your knees which will feel the strain by the end of the day. After about an hour
of walking through cloudforest you may just be able to see the tin roof of the
Trekkers Hostal at Wiñay Wayna, although it probably won't be for another 2
hours until you arrive. Wiñay Wayna is the last official campsite before Machu
Picchu. There is a restaurant where you can purchase drinks and even a well
deserved beer, as well as hot showers ($1.5) and toilet facilities. A short
trail leaves from the southern end of the hostal to the ruins of Wiñay Wayna.
The name in Quechua means 'forever young' and is named after a variety of pink
orchid which grows here. The ruins comprise magnificent agricultural terraces
set in an impressive location. There are also many buildings of good quality
stonework and a sequence of 10 baths, suggesting that the site was probably a
religious center associated with the worship of water. Ritual cleansing may have
taken place here for pilgrims on the final leg of the trail to Machu Picchu.
DAY 08 Winay Wayna to Machu Picchu 5km (Inca Trail)
We'll wake early at 4.15am, have breakfast and set off on the trail again by
5.15am to get to Machu Picchu before sunrise. The sky starts getting light by
5:30am and the first rays of the sun reach Machu Picchu at about 7:00am. The
trail contours a mountainside and drops into cloudforest before coming to an
almost vertical flight of 50 steps leading up to the final pass at Intipunku
(Sun Gate). From this point you will be able to see sunrise over Machu Picchu
which is spread out before, an unforgettable experience. From Intipunku we will
descend for about 40 minutes to Machu Picchu. When you arrive at the ruins
you'll have plenty of time to take photos of Machu Picchu from the classic view
point. Most groups wait at this point for a while so most of your photos should
be 'tourist free'. When the group is back together again we descend to the main
entrance where we will have to register and where you can safely leave your
large backpacks. You can also go to the toilet and have a quick coffee in the
restaurant just outside the entrance. With just your daypack on the group will
re-enter the ruins with the same guide for a complete tour of the major sectors.
The tour takes about 2 hours so by about 10:30 you'll have free time to explore
the ruins alone. We suggest that after visiting Machu Picchu that you take the
bus down to Aguas Calientes by 15:30 at the latest (assuming train departs at
16:30). Buses depart every 15 minutes. Check with the guide for actual times.
This leaves you plenty of time at the ruins to climb Wayna Picchu (the mountain
that you see in the background). It takes about 1 hour to climb and 40 minutes
to descend. Most people, however, leave the ruins at about 13:30 and return to
Aguas Calientes for lunch (at the ruins there is only one restaurant and it's
very expensive). There are several small restaurants in Aguas Calientes to
satisfy all budgets. You may also wish to pay a visit to the town's famous
thermal springs which feel great after finishing the trail. Entrance to the
springs costs US$2, allow 2 hours to really enjoy them. After this we will take
our train to Cusco and then transfer to your hotel.
What is included:
Collection from your hotel in the morning of trek departure
Private bus from your hotel to the start of the trail
Inca Trail & Machu Picchu entrance fees (value US$73)
English speaking professional guide (two guides for groups over 9 persons)
Igloo tents - 2 persons in each 3-person capacity tent with plenty of space for
your backpacks
Double thickness foam mattress
Cook and Cooking equipment
Meals (03B,03L,03D) - food includes pancakes, omelets, soups, fresh fruit,
avocado, pasta, chicken, fish, meat, rice, all rich in carbohydrates and
suitable for trekking, hot drinks including coca leaf tea which is excellent for
the altitude.
Teatime everyday (tea, coffee, biscuits, popcorn)
Porters (to carry the tents, food, and cooking equipment)
Dining tent with camp tables and chairs
Kitchen tent
Accommodation for our porters and cooks
First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.
What is not included:
Breakfast on the first morning. Some hotels offer an early morning breakfast
service. If not, we stop at the town of Urubamba on the way to the start on the
trek where you'll have the opportunity to have breakfast,
Meal in restaurant in Aguas Calientes on day 4 of the trek.
Extra Porter to carry your things. (US$ 120.00)
Entrance to the thermal springs in Aguas Calientes US$3.50
Sleeping bags can be hired in our office for US$15 for the 4 day trek.
Tips for the guide, cook and porters
What you need to bring/carry:
Backpack,
Sleeping bag (can be hired from our office for US$15 for the 4 day trek)
Sleeping mattress (we will provide you with this)
Rain jacket or poncho (plastic ponchos can be purchased in Cusco for a few
dollars)
Strong, comfortable footwear
One complete change of clothing (you can afford to carry more changes of
clothing if you hire a personal porters, see options below)
Sweater and jacket (something warm)
Water bottle and purification tablets (Micropur are recommended and can be
bought in local pharmacies in Cusco) Flashlight and batteries
Hat or cap to protect you from the sun
Sun block (sun protection cream), Insect repellent
Toiletries, towel and toilet paper
Selection of small snacks, chocolate, dried fruit, biscuits etc,
Camera, plenty of film and spare batteries
Swimsuit (if you plan on visiting the hot springs at Aguas Calientes after the
trek - entrance not included in price)
You also need to bring your original passport on the trail and your student ISIC
card (if claiming a student discount)
DAY 09 CUSCO-PUNO
Early breakfast and transfer to the bus station so you can take the ride to
Puno. Depart Cusco on guided bus to Puno, visiting on the route picturesque
towns and archeological sites such as Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, Sicuani, La Raya
and Pukara. Buffet Lunch included. Afternoon arrival in Puno, reception and
transfer to your accommodation. Overnight at the hotel.
*Additional fare of US$200.00 if travelling by train. Ask for availability.
DAY 10 UROS AND TAQUILE ISLANDS
You will be picked up from your hotel 07:00Hr. after 2 hours motorboat you will
arrive at the Uros island. Fishermen and hunters inhabit the floating islands of
the Uros. The residents of the Uros use the cattail, a type of rush, which grows
in the lake, to create the conditions that ensure the islands stay afloat. The
dense roots that the plants develop support the island.The roofs are waterproof
and the houses are extremely humid because of the surrounding water. At present
they speak Quechua and Aymara. Then we will visit the Taquile island , including
lunch in the co-operative restaurant, there is also a co-operative shop on the
plaza that sells exceptional woolen goods which are not cheap but of very fine
quality. Taquile, Island is famous for its craft production, particularly for
its beautiful textiles. The island is narrow only about 1 KM wide, but 6 to 7 KM
long, on Taquile there are numerous pre-Inca and Inca ruins and Inca terracing .
You will return in Puno in the afternoon, overnight at the your hotel
(Breakfast,Lunch)
DAY 11 PUNO LIMA
Breakfast, transfer the airport where we'll take the flight back to Lima
(AIRFARE INCLUDED), End our Services.
Price per person US$ 1097.00 based on double room and Expedition tourists
train from Machupicchu.
Price per person US$ 1207.00 based on single room and Expedition tourists
train from Machupicchu.
Included Following 2 starts hotels: (Basic Class)
Lima: "Regency or similar Hotel"
Cusco: "Ayllu Real or similar Hotel"
Puno: "Tumi Inn or Vargas Inn Hotel"
Price per person US$ 1148.00 based on double room and Expedition tourists
train from Machupicchu.
Price per person US$ 1293.00 based on single room and Expedition tourists
train from Machupicchu.
Included Following 3 starts hotels: (Tourist Class)
Lima: "The Place, Santa Cruz or Soul Mate Inn Hotel"
Cusco: "Prisma or Villandre Hotel"
Puno: "Conde de Lemos Inn or Casona Plaza Hotel"
Price per person US$ 1197.00 based on double room and Expedition tourists
train from Machupicchu.
Price per person US$ 1350.00 based on single room and Expedition tourists
train from Machupicchu.
Included Following 3 starts hotels: (Tourist Class)
Lima: "The Place, Santa Cruz or Soul Mate Inn Hotel"
Cusco: "Sueños del Inca, Rumi Punku, Royal Inca or Garcilaso Hotel"
Puno: "Conde de Lemos Inn or Casona Plaza Hotel"
Aditional for first class VistaDome Train US $ 15.00
Price per person US$ 1375.00 based on double room and first class
VistaDome train from Machupicchu.
Price per person US$ 1699.00 based on single room and first class
VistaDome Train from Machupicchu.
Included Following 4 starts hotels: (First Class)
Lima: "Jose Antonio, San Agustin Exclusive or Sonesta Posada del Inca
Miraflores Hotel"
Cusco: "Jose Antonio, Eco Inn, Sonesta Posada del Inca Cusco Hotel"
Puno: "Jose Antonio, Eco Inn or Sonesta Posada del Inca Puno Hotel"
Price per person US$ 1467.00 based on double room and first class
VistaDome train from Machupicchu.
Price per person US$ 1881.00 based on single room and first class
VistaDome Train from Machupicchu.
Included Following 4 starts hotels: (First Class)
Lima: "Jose Antonio, San Agustin Exclusive or Sonesta Posada del Inca
Miraflores Hotel"
Cusco: "Novotel or Picoaga Hotel"
Puno: "Jose Antonio, Eco Inn or Sonesta Posada del Inca Puno Hotel"
Price per person US$ 2022.00 based on double room and first class
VistaDome train from Machupicchu.
Price per person US$ 2865.00 based on single room and first class
VistaDome Train from Machupicchu.
Included Following 5 starts hotels: (Luxury Class)
Lima: "Libertador Westin Lima or Doubletree El Pardo by Hilton Lima
Hotel"
Cusco: "Libertador Palacio del Inka Cusco Hotel"
Puno: "Libertador Isla Esteves Hotel"
INCLUDED:
All hotel and lodge accommodations. All scheduled transportation. All transfers.
All scheduled excursions with English-speaking guide services. All entrance
fees. Meals and domestic airfares as specified in the itinerary.
NOT INCLUDED:
International airfares, airport departure taxes or visa fees, excess baggage
charges, additional nights during the trip due to flight cancellations,
alcoholic beverages or bottled water, snacks, insurance of any kind, laundry,
phone calls, radio calls or messages, reconfirmation of flights and items of
personal nature. |