Tambopata, Inca Trail, Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Mountain, and Salkantay Mountain are all popular tourist destinations located in Peru, a country known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and ancient ruins.
1. Tambopata: Tambopata is a region located in the southeastern part of Peru, known for its vast Amazon rainforest and biodiversity. It is home to the Tambopata National Reserve, which offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, bird watching, and eco-friendly tours. Visitors can explore the rainforest through guided hikes, boat trips along the Tambopata River, or by staying in eco-lodges.
2. Inca Trail: The Inca Trail is a legendary hiking route that leads to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This iconic trek starts in the Sacred Valley of the Incas near Cusco and takes approximately four days to complete. Along the way, hikers traverse diverse landscapes, including mountains, cloud forests, and Inca ruins, culminating in the breathtaking arrival at Machu Picchu.
3. Rainbow Mountain: Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores, is a colorful mountain located in the Andes of Peru. It has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its striking hues caused by mineral deposits. The trek to Rainbow Mountain is moderately challenging, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and the vibrant layers of mineral-rich sediment.
4. Humantay Mountain: Humantay Mountain is another impressive peak situated in the Peruvian Andes, near the Salkantay Mountain. It is characterized by its turquoise glacial lake, which is a result of the melting snow and ice. Many visitors opt to hike to Humantay Lake, which requires a moderately strenuous trek. The journey rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountain scenery.
5. Salkantay Mountain: Salkantay Mountain is one of the highest peaks in the Peruvian Andes, reaching an elevation of approximately 6,271 meters (20,574 feet). It is an alternative trekking route to Machu Picchu, offering a more challenging and less crowded experience compared to the Inca Trail. The Salkantay Trek takes hikers through diverse landscapes, including high-altitude passes, cloud forests, and picturesque valleys.
Overall, these destinations in Peru provide a range of experiences for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in exploring the country’s rich cultural heritage. Whether it’s hiking through ancient Inca trails, witnessing vibrant natural wonders, or immersing oneself in the Amazon rainforest, Peru offers an unforgettable experience for travelers.
14 Day Lima, Amazon Rainforest Tambopata & Cusco Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, Inca Trail Package Overview
14 Day Lima, Amazon Rainforest Tambopata & Cusco Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, Inca Trail (Classic) Highlights
highlights of each destination:
Tambopata:
– Biodiversity: Tambopata is known for its incredible biodiversity, with a vast array of plant and animal species. Visitors have the chance to spot macaws, monkeys, giant river otters, and even elusive jaguars.
– Amazon Rainforest: Explore the pristine Amazon rainforest, one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. Take guided hikes, boat trips, or stay in eco-lodges to immerse yourself in the beauty of the jungle.
– Wildlife Viewing: Tambopata offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including colorful bird species like parrots and toucans. Boat tours along the Tambopata River provide a chance to see caimans, capybaras, and other creatures.
Inca Trail:
– Ancient Ruins: Walk in the footsteps of the ancient Incas and discover well-preserved ruins along the Inca Trail. Highlights include Wiñay Wayna, an impressive Inca site with terraces and temples, and Intipata, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
– Scenic Landscapes: The Inca Trail takes you through diverse landscapes, including high mountain passes, cloud forests, and lush valleys. Enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant flora along the way.
– Arrival at Machu Picchu: The ultimate highlight of the Inca Trail is reaching the magnificent Machu Picchu. As you emerge from the Sun Gate, you’ll be greeted by the iconic ruins perched high in the Andes, offering a breathtaking and unforgettable sight.
Rainbow Mountain:
– Vibrant Colors: Rainbow Mountain is famous for its vibrant colors caused by mineral deposits, creating a surreal and picturesque landscape. The mountain displays stripes of red, orange, yellow, green, and turquoise, making it a remarkable natural wonder.
– Scenic Hike: Embark on a challenging yet rewarding hike to Rainbow Mountain, passing through beautiful Andean scenery. Enjoy stunning views of snow-capped peaks, rugged valleys, and herds of alpacas along the way.
– Geological Wonder: Learn about the geological processes that formed Rainbow Mountain and the unique mineralogy behind its colorful appearance. It’s a destination that offers a unique and otherworldly experience.tay Lake:
Humantay Lake:
– Turquoise Glacial Lake: Humantay Lake is a stunning turquoise-colored glacial lake nestled at the base of Humantay Mountain. Its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings create a tranquil and awe-inspiring atmosphere.
– Sacred Site: The lake is considered a sacred place by the local communities, and visitors can participate in rituals and ceremonies led by knowledgeable guides. It offers a chance to connect with the spiritual significance of the area.
– Scenic Beauty: The trek to Humantay Lake takes you through breathtaking mountain landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, valleys, and high-altitude flora. The views from the lake’s viewpoint are truly mesmerizing.
Each of these destinations offers unique experiences, natural beauty, and a glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
Arrive in Lima and transfer to your hotel. If arriving during the day, your hotel will be in the neighborhood of Miraflores, with good shopping and restaurants, and you’ll have an included city tour in the afternoon. If arriving late at night, you’ll be close to the airport for a bit more to sleep before your next day’s flight.
Transfer to the Lima aiport to take flight to Puerto Maldonado When you arrive to Puerto Maldonado, our guides or staff will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the centre of the town where you can experience the exotic local market depending on the arrival time of the flights we may have the first lunch here or while travelling to the lodge or in the lodge. We take our private bus along the Madre de Dios River for approximately 1 hour to our Ecolodge. A cool welcome drink awaits you will be shown to your bungalows to settle in.
In the afternoon we will take a 30 minute boat journey to Monkey Island where you appreciate a great diversity of monkeys such the: spider, capuchin, tamarines y squirrel monkeys as well as racoons, capybaras and a rich variety of birds. We return to our Ecolodge for a traditional dinner. Night time activities are available each night.
After a great jungle breakfast, we take a 2 hours walk to the famous Sandoval Lake, passing through virgin forest, home to beautiful flora and fauna including Giant Otters, birds, alligators, turtles, and variety of fish. We will spend few hours in canoes on this lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in the region. Afterwards, we may take a short visit on the traditional farming areas to see the production of regular supplies.
Jungle breakfast, we will travel a further 1 hour down river to the Jungle project of specialized trails where your guide will show you amazing ecosystem up close (canopy and after that we enjoy coming down from the trees using our ziplining), during which your guide will teach you along an array of trails. We will further amaze you with the marvels of the jungle through a gentle hike, learning to recognize birds calls, footprints and plants. This day we will visit a local family and we will do some fishing in of the lakes.
Very early departure to witness the spectacle of the Green Parrot’s Clay Lick and sunrise on the rivers as we journey 1 and half hours to the Clay-Lick wall before hundreds of green parrots congregate at first light each morning. We will generally be able to spend about one hour here before re-boarding the boat to enjoy breakfast on our return to Puerto Maldonado. To take the Flight or Bus back to Cusco. Add on the Nazca Lines, the Amazon Rainforest, Colca Canyon, and other extension tours or treks. Let us know.
Upon arrival to Cusco Airport. Reception and transportation to the Hotel where you will receive an aromatic coca tea to stimulating for the height, will have the free morning to rest and also we suggest you have a light lunch in either your hotel or in one of the surrounded; in the afternoon we will depart on a City tour (entrance to the archaeological centers and museums including) we will visit the Main square, Cathedral, the Koricancha (temple of the sun) and in addition we will make a route bordering archaeological centers like Sacsayhuaman Fortress, Q’enko, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay, tour finishes 6:30pm approximately at the main square in order you can take dinner in one of the exquisite restaurants in the area, then overnight. (No meals included)
Breakfast. You will be picked up at 8:15 am. Full day excursion to the Urubamba Valley visiting: the colorful Indian market in Pisac where a mixture of color and tradition will be able appreciated besides will have a good opportunity to try our bargain skills on the free time to interact with the local craftsmen to purchase their hand-made souvenirs. The Valley has a distance of 31 km (19 miles) of Cusco, and an altitude of 2,970 ms (9,700 p), Pisac is located to the entrance of the Sacred Valley and followed by Ollantaytambo, the older town continuously occupied of the American continent. The narrow streets of Ollantaytambo, along with their channels that have not varied from the time Inca, evoke their ancestral inheritance, lunch in a typical restaurant and after we explore Ollantaytambo we take the train at Ollantaytambo train station 2 hours to get Aguas Calientes where we do overnight (B, L)
We will pick you up early from your Cusco hotel and set out on a drive through the South Valley. The drive to the trailhead at Quesiuno (4,326 m / 14,189 ft) is 3 hours long. Once we reach the Inkintuyoc bridge, we will have a fueling continental breakfast.
We then start off on our hike, following a lovely stream. You will be immediately surprised by literally herds of alpacas and llamas. We will have consistent views of the Ausangate Mountain. We will hike through villages and interact with the local residents. We will stop for a deluxe box lunch along the trail.
Back on the trail, we encounter more of the traditional elements of this trek. This includes potato fields and unique fauna. We have the prospect of seeing chinchillas and vicunas. Vicunas are the only non-domesticated animal of the llama family in Peru. Many red mountains are also a highlight of this portion of the hike.
After a total hike of approximately 5 hours, we finally reach our destination, what we came to see….the Rainbow Mountains (5,020 m / 16,466 ft). After getting over the shock of their beauty, you will have time to explore the area. You will have time to take pictures and soak in the environment. We will spend approximately 30 minutes at the top.
At this point, it is time to go back down. We hike downhill the way we came. The hike will take 4 to 5 hours. Our private van will be waiting for us when we return.
We will embark on the 3 hour drive back to Cusco and drop you off at your Cusco hotel. Approximate arrival time is between 8 and 9 PM.
We come and pick you up from your hotel and drive for 2 hour to Molllepata. and as soon as we have at Mollepata twon we will have breakfast. and then keep driving to trail head then we start the trek 1 hour hike to soraypampa once there we have lunch, after we start hiking up to Humantay lake for 1.5 hour uphill, once at the lake you have time for photographing and explore the area. after you walk back 45 minutes to Soraypama to catch Bus back to cusco. About 3.5 hour. Pick up Time Between 4:30am to 5:00am Return Time Between 6:30pm to 7:00pm
We will leave from Cusco to start the Inca Trail .we travel to Urubamba where we will stop briefly at Ollaytaytambo where you can buy last minute gear and personal needing, then we move on to Piskacuchu (Km 82) Inca Trail Control Point .and then we start our hike of Inca Trail to Wayllabamba(first camping spot). along on the Inca Trail We will have lunch at Miskay (first Inca Trail Village) and relax a bit before hiking to our first Inca Trail Archaelogical site of Patallacta or Llactapata (biggest Inca Trail Quechuan Site) after an explanation of your guide about Llactapata ,you will keep going for 2 more hours to get Wayllabamba (first Inca Trail Camping spot 2900 m.a.s.l)
First day: Total distance: 10 km (aprox.)
Estimated walking time: 5 – 6 hours
Maximum altitude point: 3,000 m (aprox.)
Campsite altitude (Huayllabamba): 3,000 m (aprox.)
Places to see: Ollantaytambo, Piscakucho, km 82, Kanabamba, Llactapata Incan Site, Tarayoc lunch spot, Hatunchaka, Huayllabamba.
We’ll start our Inca Trail day, early in the morning, just to take advantage of the shade of the mountains ,its much better to hike up to thefirst Inca Trail pass (Warmihuañusca which means dead woman pass 4200 m.a.s.l) highest point of the Inca Trail. Here, we can literally see the various Inca Trail ecological zones and microclimates, which make up the area, mapped out in front of us. We will cross the Warmiwañusca pass and once we are on the top. we are going to see many snow-capped Mountains around and after we take a our group pciture we keep going dow to Pacaymayo (second Inca Trail Camping spot 3600 m.a.s.l) where we have our Lunch and then we will have a free afternoon to explore by ourselves.
Second Day: Total distance: 12 km (aprox.) Please, See we climb one pass only (Dead Woman Pass 4200 meters high) while Many operators are using a camping spot of Chaquicocha and passengers are forced to climb the 2nd pass of 3950 meters high) So 2 passes in one day.
Estimated walking time: 6 – 7 hours
Maximum altitude point: 4,200 m (aprox.)
Campsite altitude(Pacaymayu): 3,650 m (aprox.)
Places to see: Huayllabamba, Yunkachimpa, Tres pierdas, Llulluchapampa, Warmihuañusca(Dead woman Pass), Pacaymayu.
Inca Trail begins with a nutritious breakfast and then a 45-minute hike up to Runcurakay Pass (second highest pass on the Trail 3,850 m.a.s.l), and along the way we will visit the Runcuracay archeological site. During the day’s hike, we will also visit the Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca quechuan archeological sites of the Inca Trail. After lunch we will head to the Wiñaywayna site , where we will spend our last night on the inca Trail and then we will have a celebratory dinner to then say good bye to our Inca Trail porters.
Third day: Total distance: 16 km (aprox.) We explore the incan site along the inca trail
Estimated walking time: 7 – 8 hours
Maximum altitude point: 3,900 m (aprox.)
Campsite altitude (Wiñayhuayna)2,650 m (aprox.)
Places to see: Pacaymayu, Runkurachay Incan Site, Runkurakay pass(3900 meters high) Sayacmarca Incan Site, Conchamarca Incan Site, Chaquicocha Lunch spot, Phuyupatamarca incan site, Intipata incan site, Wiñayhuayna incan site.
Inca Trail Important 4 th Day After an early breakfast, we begin the final leg of the Inca Trail to the lost city of Machu picchu. First, we will hike to Inti Punku (“Sun Gate”), Gate of the Inca Trail where we will take in an inspiring and panoramic view of the Machu picchu citadel. After a short hike down to Machu picchu, we will register and then enjoy a 2-hours guided tour of the sanctuary-city. After the tour of Machupicchu there will free time to explore by yourself and you will stay almost all day and then after you will have to be in aguas calientes to take the train which is between 4:30 to 6:20pm leacing from aguas calientes to ollantaytambo and there will be a private bus back to cusco and we will be arriving between 9:30pm to 10:00pm
Fourth Day: Total distance: 7 km (aprox.)
Estimated walking time: 2 – 3 hours
Maximum altitude point: 2,700 m (aprox.)
Places to see: Wiñayhuayna, Intipunku(Sungate), Machupicchu city, Huaynapicchu or Machupicchu Mountain(optional), Aguas Calientes or Machupicchu Town.
Domestic Airfares or Bus Ticket Included
Puerto Maldonado Jungle Tour 4days all Included
Please check availability for the Inca Trail Before doing Your Reservation if there is not availability on the date you want do do The Inca Trail Please Check our alternatives Treks towards Machupicchu
4, OR 5 DAY INCA TRAIL AVAILABILITY & PERMITS 2023 – 2024
PRICE 2023 – 2024 per person (Upcoming Trips 2023 – 2024) Upon Request
We can leave any day of the week, as long as permits are available. Please remember, permits are only needed for your start date.
Do not Hesitate to contact us via Whatsapp:
Whatsapp: (English)+51 984315337
Whatsapp: (Spanish)+51 972390728
Inca Trail & Tambopata Jungle Package (Prices for 2023 & 2024)
Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We wont Cancel your Trip !!!
How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information as well as a Deposit of US$400 and the Final Balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.
We want you to have a Memorable Lifetime Experience Trip!
and if you choose Bed & Breakfast you will stay in our Quechuas Guesthouse Homestay. Private rooms with private shower and bathroom (in cusco only) and includes Shuttle transportation to go to the town square.(Please a detailed page of Quechuas Guesthouse above)
Double Room, Matrimonial(Twin Beds Room) Occupancy.
Prices shown Below are per person, based on Twin bed room occupancy and in US$ Dollars.
Group Service: Price per person: US$2550 – 2 Stars Hotel(b&b) (Private Bathroom & Shower) Hotel Maria Bonita Cusco
(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities): From 04 Persons to 16 Persons (Maximum)
Private Service: Price per person: US$2850 – 3 Stars Hotel (Private Bathroom & Shower)
Recommended for Honeymooners, Families with children & Groups of Friends (02 Persons Minimum)
4 Stars Hotel/ Upon Request
5 Stars Hotel/ Upon Request
If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as GROUP SERVICE). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in cusco.
LIMA (Hotel)
3-star la Faraona (Miraflores), El Carmel (Miraflores),Casa Andina (Miraflores), Best Western Embajadores Hotel or similar.
4-star San Agustin Exclusive or Sol de Oro (Casa Andina Select Miraflores opening May 2011)
5-star Casa Andina PC, Radisson Decapolis or similar.
Airport Ramada Costa del Sol airport hotel.
Deluxe Miraflores Park Plaza (Orient Express), JW Marriott, Lima Country Club or similar.
AREQUIPA (Hotel)
3-star Casa Andina Ciudad Blanca or similar.
4-star Posada del Inca Arequipa, Cabildo or similar.
5-star Libertador Arequipa, Casa Andina Private Collection or similar.
CUSCO (Hotel)
Hotel Maria Bonita Cusco
B&B Quechuas Guesthouse(Homestay)
B&B- El Virrey, Amaru I, El Triunfo
3-star Mirador Apu Hotel, Casona Real Cusco, Hatun Wasi or Similar
3-star Casa Andina Classic, San Agustin El Dorado, similar.
4-star Costa del Sol Picoaga, Novotel, Casa Andina Private Collection (oxygen available) or similar.
5-star Casa Cartagena, Libertador, or Suite at the Casa Andina Private Collection inc. oxygen, matrimonial beds only, or similar.
Deluxe Monasterio (Orient Express), Inkaterra La Casona or similar.
Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes) (Hotel)
B&B- Pumas Inn, Sumaq Muyurina
3-star La cabaña, El MaPi (ex Machu Picchu Inn), Machupicchu Green Nature, Intipunku or similar.
4-star Hatuchay Tower or similar; includes dinner at Hatuchay Tower.
5-star Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, Sumaq Machu Picchu or similar.
Deluxe Sanctuary Lodge (Orient Express – includes all meals), or Suite at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo.
PUNO (Lake Titicaca) (Hotel)
3-star Casa Andina Plaza, Puñuypampa Inn or similar.
4-star Casa Andina Private Collection (oxygen available), Sonesta Posadas del Inca or similar.
5-star Libertador Lago Titicaca or Casa Andina Private Collection (oxygen inc) or similar.
Deluxe 1 night Deluxe hotel. Hotel Titilaka. Includes accommodation in a Dawn Suite; choice of excursions in and around Titicaca Lake with bilingual (Spanish and English) guide; all meals.
ISLAND OF THE SUN (Hotel)
Standard Posada del Inca Eco Lodge, Inca Utama or similar
LA PAZ (Hotel)
3-star Rosario or similar.
4-star Rey Palace or similar.
5-star Radisson Plaza, Europa or similar.
COLCA CANYON (Hotel)
3-star Pozo del Cielo or similar.
4-star Casa Andina or similar.
5-star Libertador Colca Lodge or similar
Deluxe 1 night deluxe accommodations (individual casitas) in Orient Express Casitas del Colca. Includes: Buffet Breakfast A la carte lunch A la carte dinner Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages excluding premium alcoholic brands and special wines Full Mini-bar A la carte activities such as Peruvian Paso horse riding, hiking tours, painting lessons, fly fishing lessons, cooking lessons and pisco sour lessons. 10% service charge
NAZCA (Hotel)
3-star Casa Andina or similar.
4-star Nazca Lines or similar.
PARACAS (Hotel)
3 Star Hotel La Posada del Emancipador or similar
4 Star La Hacienda Bahia Paracas or similar
5 Star Doubletree Guest Suite (weekend rate w/ view of pool) or similar
Deluxe Hotel Paracas (Garden View) or similar
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Whilst we expect that the tour will run as per the itinerary, participants should accept that there is the possibility of changes being necessary subject to local conditions eg. strikes and natural disaster these changes may be at the discretion of your tour company.
What to Bring
Each web page has a specific list of what to bring for your trek and the list supplied here might not apply to you. However, remember that the weather in the Andes can be very unpredictable and you should be prepared for bad weather. Peru is located in the southern hemisphere meaning the winter extends from June to August. In the summer months daytime temperatures can be hot & sunny, but the nights can be very cold. During winter it can be cold and rainy during the day and particularly cold at night. It is usual to encounter some rain all year round so we recommend buying a cheap poncho in Cusco for about US $1. We also recommend bringing thermal underwear in order to combat the cold. It’s recommended to wear the thermal underwear in the evening and early morning. When packing try to bring a range of layers so that you can take off or add clothes as required in the ever changing Andean weather.
Equipment
Please see each page for specific notes in regard to the equipment that is carried on each tour. Generally, the following items are ‘normal’ unless specified on the tour page.
Hiring Extra Equipment
We hire sleeping bags (rated for -5, -10 and -15 celsius temperatures) , thermarest (inflatable mattresses), walking poles, and extra horses for luggage.
Which sleeping bag to choose? Do you feel the cold – then opt for the -15 bag. Our foam mattresses (included in the price) are more than adequate but a thermarest inflatable mattress provides a lot more luxury! Walking poles – guides advise that two poles are better than just one as they provide much more balance, especially on steep descents (ie Llactapata on the Salkantay route and the Choquequirao and Choquequirao to Machu Picchu sections.) Please check our booking form for current prices.
Luggage Storage & Load Limits
Do you need an extra luggage mule/or riding mule?
We include in the price of your tour 8kg (15lbs) of luggage each person. We LOAN you a duffel bag which you can put this 8kg in. The reason for this is that duffel bags strap onto mules much better than backpacks/your luggage and its better that our custom designed duffels get dirty than your luggage (also if your backpack has a fancy harness then it can get damaged on the mules). If you think that you are going to need more than 7kg (plus the things that you carry in your day pack) then you might like to consider hiring an extra mule. Each mule can carry about 20kg of equipment so its usually shared between 2 or 3 people. Most people find that 7kg is more than adequate if they pack normally or a little conservatively. We strongly recommend that you leave the bulk at of your luggage at your hotel in Cusco – all hotels or hostals should provide you with luggage storage as a courtesy service.
Included in the price of your tour is 1 emergency riding horse. If you have in your group younger children, or older people, people who are not very fit, or people who have never hiked in the mountains before, you might consider paying for an extra mule. This is especially if you think that someone in your group will utilize the horse a lot!
Extra Charges
We need to charge extra for the following:
Train Tickets
For backpacker trains the timetable is 2.30pm and 6pm, and you return to Cusco approximately 4-5 hours later. A representative of the agency will meet the train in Ollantaytambo and transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco. We apologise in advance if we cannot get either of these times, if we cannot we have endeavored to do so. Some people want early trains, some people like later trains, and its impossible to anticipate people’s preference. Please also note that in high season (normally July-August) the trains to Machu Picchu and back again are completely over-subscribed and its difficult to get tickets, even with several weeks notice. (this is why we are inistent that you send your passport details asap!) In the case that Peru Amazon Garden Lodge not able to obtain train tickets for you we will provide a car that returns via the Abra de Malaga to Cusco. (approx 6 hours of travelling).
We generally recommend that you start out from Cusco with 1-2 litres of water. You should also bring a refillable water bottle with you. (Any bottle you buy from the shop will do but we recommend a hardy plastic bottle) During the day, when you are hiking you can fill up from streams, on the advice of your guide. You should use purification tablets for this water. (Micropur tablets can be bought in Cusco or you might like to ask in your camping shop at home. Some people recommend iodine tablets). In the evening, your cook will boil water for your use and you can fill up your bottles every morning before setting out. As people have different requirements for water (ie some people drink a lot and others less) it is important that you take responsibility for ensuring you have enough water each day. You need to communicate your needs (via the guide) to the cook.
Cooking & Meals
Our cooks serve hygenically prepared food that features Peruvian and Western dishes. If you are a vegetarian or have specially dietary requirements and/or allergies, please specify on your booking form and remind us at your briefing. Water is boiled for three minutes before being used for cooking and raw vegetables, if served, are washed in boiled/ purified water.
For photos of some example meals, please see our Peru Amazon Garden Lodge meals page
Bathing
There are few opportunities for bathing on our treks. However, in the evening and morning, please ask your cook to warm some water for you to wash your hands and face. There are cold water shower facilities on the Salkantay and Choquequirao trek.
Toilets
Depending on the tour you take, we provide toilet tents at each of the campsites or you can use the existing facilities. During the day, your guide carries a pick or lightweight shovel. Should you need to use this, please ask them. Ideally, you should relieve yourself at least 70 metres from any water source and also a good distance from the trail. Remember also to bring plenty of toilet paper but follow international leave no trace rules and carry it out… (Please no white flags along the route!)
Medical Kit Each trip departs with a basic medical kit and an oxygen bottle. We advise that if you have your own medications and needs that you bring these. We do not include altitude tablets in our kit. Please note that the blister care that we have is Peruvian style (band-aids and cotton wool) – we do not have second skin or Western style blister treatments.
Medical Kit
Each trip departs with a basic medical kit and an oxygen bottle. We advise that if you have your own medications and needs that you bring these. We do not include altitude tablets in our kit. Please note that the blister care that we have is Peruvian style (band-aids and cotton wool) – we do not have second skin or Western style blister treatments.
How much money should I take?
Please review what is included in your trek in order to estimate what you should take. Along the way you can buy snacks and souvenirs, mostly of a non expensive nature. (Though if you decide you want to drink a lot of PowerAde, it does add up!) Most people also like to enjoy a nice meal and some drinks in Aguas Calientes on the night you arrive from your trek. Aguas Calientes is generally more expensive than other parts of Peru, so expect things to cost more there. Finally, bring money to tip your staff and your guides. (Please see below) There is an ATM in Aguas Calientes, but don’t rely on it working so we suggest you take ample to cover your expenses while there.
Tips
Tips vary and depend on the traveller’s satisfaction with the quality of the service rendered. Although our staff are paid just above local industry rates, and we include all meals and transportation, they do appreciate tips. Tips also provide incentive for staff to work harder.
Deciding how much to tip the porters, the cook and guide is a difficult moment at the end of the trek and can be made more difficult when members of the group have different cultural understandings about tipping. (Some countries tip, other countries don´t tend to tip).
Generally speaking, if the group have been pleased with the service then try to ensure that (minimum) each porter/muleteer takes home an extra 20-30 soles per day of trek, cook 40-45 soles per day of trek, and the guide as you feel is appropriate. (these amounts are shared between all members of the group, and are not individual tips. if your trip is 9 days then the group as a whole would tip 10 soles x 9 days. Even if the muleteers were only with you for 2 days on the shorter treks, please calculate their tip based on your entire trip length. Ie the Expreso Salkantay is 4 days, and the muleteers will take at least 1 day to return home, even though they are not directly in your service). A recent, higher estimation follows: between $10 and $20 a day for guides, between $5 – $10 a day for cooks and drivers, and $3-5 a day for the muleteers. Again, that should be divided between everyone on your tour, is PER person, and multiplied by the full length of your tour. We believe that ultimately, tipping the guide and cook should be dependent on the quality of the service that you received. At no stage should you feel obliged to tip!
Safety
Trekking in the Andes is generally pretty safe. There is minimal theft – it does sometimes occur on the more touristed routes (ie Salkantay). Be cautious, not paranoid! We do recommend always sleeping with your valuables (ie money belt, passports) near your heads or in your sleeping bag. Your camera and day packs should be kept between you or near your heads – never near the flap of your tent. Shoes should be stored inside!
Certainly! Here are some frequently asked questions about Tambopata, Inca Trail, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake:
Tambopata:
1. What is the best time to visit Tambopata?
– The dry season from April to October is generally considered the best time to visit Tambopata. During this period, there is less rainfall, making it easier to explore the rainforest and spot wildlife.
2. Are mosquitoes and other insects a problem in Tambopata?
– Yes, Tambopata is located in a tropical rainforest, so mosquitoes and other insects are common. It is advisable to bring insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing to minimize bites.
Inca Trail:
1. Do I need a permit to hike the Inca Trail?
– Yes, a permit is required to hike the Inca Trail, and it’s important to obtain it in advance. The number of permits is limited to preserve the trail and manage the number of visitors. It is recommended to book your trek with a licensed tour operator who will arrange the permits for you.
2. How physically demanding is the Inca Trail?
– The Inca Trail is considered moderately challenging. It involves trekking at high altitudes, including a few steep and uneven sections. It is recommended to be in good physical condition and acclimatize to the altitude in Cusco before starting the trek.
Rainbow Mountain:
1. Can I visit Rainbow Mountain year-round?
– Yes, Rainbow Mountain can be visited year-round. However, weather conditions can vary, and it’s important to check the local conditions before planning your visit. The dry season from May to September is usually more favorable for hiking.
2. How difficult is the hike to Rainbow Mountain?
– The hike to Rainbow Mountain is considered moderately challenging. It involves hiking at high altitudes, reaching over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) above sea level. Proper acclimatization and a moderate level of fitness are recommended.
1. How do I reach Humantay Lake?
– The trek to Humantay Lake typically starts from the town of Mollepata or Soraypampa, located near Cusco. It involves a moderate hike that takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour that includes transportation and a trekking guide.
2. Is it possible to swim in Humantay Lake?
– Swimming in Humantay Lake is generally not allowed due to its sacred and protected status. Visitors are encouraged to respect the cultural and natural significance of the site and enjoy the stunning views from the designated viewpoints.
These are just a few common questions, and there may be more specific inquiries depending on individual interests and travel plans.
Frequently Asked Questions about Peru
Welcome to our FAQ section. This page might be helpful if you haven’t been able to find the information you needed on our website. We hope these FAQ about Peru have been helpful.
How far is Peru from my home?
In order to provide you with useful references we have created a table including the approximate arrival flight times.
Direct Flights.
Country | City | Approx. flight time |
United States | Dallas | 7 hours 12 minutes |
United States | Houston | 6 hours 45 minutes |
United States | Los Angeles | 8 hours 35 minutes |
United States | Miami | 5 hours 45 minutes |
United States | Atlanta | 7 hours |
Argentina | Buenos Aires | 4 hours 15 minutes |
Chile | Santiago | 3 hours 25 minutes |
Spain | Madrid | 11 hours 30 minutes |
Flights with stopovers
Country | City | Approximate flight time |
United States | New York | 8 hours 35 minutes / via San José |
United States | San Francisco | 10 hours / via Los Angeles |
United States | Washington | 9 hours / via Newark |
Germany | Dusseldorf | 18 hours 40 minutes / via Madrid |
Germany | Frankfurt | 15 hours 30 minutes / via Madrid |
France | Paris | 14 hours 50 minutes/ via Miami |
Italy | Milan | 14 hours 50 minutes / via Madrid |
Italy | Rome | 15 hours 10 minutes / via Madrid |
UK | London | 15 hours 10 minutes / via Madrid |
Japan | Tokyo | 20 hours 35 minutes / via Los Angeles |
Do I need a visa to visit Peru?
Citizens of most American and Western European countries are not required visa to enter Peru. Citizens of Bolivia, Ecuador and Chile do not require passports or visa to visit certain regions of Peru. Contact the Peruvian diplomatic representative in your country for further information. Addresses and phone numbers are included in the website of Peru’s Ministry of Foreign Relations: www.rree.gob.pe
If the purpose of your visit is tourism, the maximum length of your stay will be 90 days (you can apply for extensions with the immigration authority)
All travelers must carry a valid passport, or a safe-conduct issued by the Peruvian immigration authority.
Is it safe to travel in Peru?
Reality shows that it is very safe.
You may have read or heard on TV, websites or newspapers about terrorism, crime and economic and political instability. But the truth is that terrorism has been defeated a long time ago; Peruvians live in peace and work very hard every day to build and democratic and safe society. We can assure visitors that all they need to do is follow the normal precautions taken in order to visit other destinations.
When visiting the cities:
Are there services for tourists with special needs in Peru?
In Peru we believe in the idea of “Tourism for Everybody”. This is why many public and private organizations have been working for years to ensure that their services are equally accessible for the differently-abled.
We advise you to contact your service provider in advance to ensure that your accessibility needs will be met.
What’s the weather like throughout the year?
Peru is a very large country that is crossed by the Andes and has a vast Amazonian region, so you are likely to notice differences from one place to the other, which may be more or less intense depending on the month of your visit.
It hardly ever rains on the coast, where there are usually two seasons:a warm season and a cold season.
Unlike the coastal area, the mountains and the jungle have a warmer rainy season running from mid November to late March, and the least warm season occurs between April and mid November.
Below is a weather table by city:
City | Altitude | HighTemp | Low Temp |
Abancay | 2,378(7,802 fasl) | 25°C (77°F) | 12°C (54°F) |
Arequipa | 2,335 (7,661 fasl) | 24°C (75°F) | 5°C (41°F) |
Ayacucho | 2,761 (9,058 fasl) | 24°C (75°F) | 11°C (52°F) |
Cajamarca | 2,720 (8,924 fasl) | 21°C (70°F) | 5°C (41°F) |
Cerro de Pasco | 4,338 (14,232 fasl) | 22°C (72°F) | 4°C (39°F) |
Chachapoyas | 2,334 (7,657 fasl) | 22°C (72°F) | 13°C (55°F) |
Chiclayo | 29 (95 fasl) | 33°C (91°F) | 17°C (63°F) |
Cusco | 3,395 (11,138 fasl) | 17°C (63°F) | 2°C (28°F) |
Huancavelica | 368 (1,207 fasl) | 20°C (68°F) | 3.4°C (38°F) |
Huancayo | 4,107 (13,474 fasl) | 17°C (63°F) | 0°C (32°F) |
Huánuco | 1,912 (6,273 fasl) | 24°C (75°F) | 18°C (64°F) |
Huaraz | 3,091 (10,141 fasl) | 18°C (64°F) | 9°C (48°F) |
Ica | 406 (1,332 fasl) | 30°C (86°F) | 8°C (46°F) |
Iquitos | 104 (341 fasl) | 36°C (97°F) | 17°C (63°F) |
Lima | 133 (436 fasl) | 25°C (77°F) | 13°C (55°F) |
Moquegua | 141 (463 fasl) | 25°C (77°F) | 17°C (63°F) |
Moyobamba | 860 (2,822 fasl) | 36°C (97°F) | 22°C (72°F) |
Piura | 29 (95 fasl) | 35°C (95°F) | 16°C (61°F) |
Pucallpa | 154 (505 fasl) | 38°C (100°F) | 24°C (75°F) |
Puerto Maldonado | 183 (600 fasl) | 34°C (93°F) | 21°C (70°F) |
Puno | 3,827 (12,556 fasl) | 19°C (6°F) | 2°C (34°F) |
Tacna | 562 (1,844 fasl) | 28°C (82°F) | 6°C (43°F) |
Trujillo | 34 (112 fasl) | 30°C (86°F) | 16°C (61°F) |
Tumbes | 6 (20 fasl) | 38°C (100°F) | 19°C (66°F) |
How much money should I expect to spend on my trip?
This answer depends on your personal preferences and the level of comfort you desire.
Bartering is generally accepted in Peru, with the exception of larger stores and restaurants. In larger cities prices in general may be higher, particularly in Lima, and may increase during festivities such as the National Holidays (July), Easter (April) or Christmas due to higher demand for services such as bus and air transportation.
Below is a price list of products and services that you may use as reference in order to prepare a travel budget.
Reference product or service | US Dollars |
Mineral water bottle 1.5 Lt (51 fl. oz.) | 1.40 |
Medium soda pop 0.50 | 0.50 |
Burger | 1.40 |
Apple | 0.30 |
Shampoo bottle | 2.00 |
Tooth paste | 1.40 |
Lunch (frugal) | 3.00 |
Lunch (basic) | 12.00 |
Camera roll | 4.00 |
Blank video tape | 8.50 |
Pair of sneakers | 30.00 |
Newspaper | 0.50 |
Public internet booth or cybercafes (1 hour) | 1.5 |
Train Cusco – Machu Picchu (return) | 30.00 (backpackers) 70.00 (Autovagon) |
Bus (one way) | 5.00 |
Flight to Cusco (return) | 140.00 |
Lodging per night (very basic) | 5 – 10 |
Lodging per night (2 star) | 20 – 40 |
Lodging per night (3 star) | 50 – 90 |
Lodging per night (4 and 5 star) | over 90 |