The Tambopata Natural Reserve and the Salkantay Trek Sky Lodge Dome are two distinct attractions in Peru that offer unique experiences for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Here’s an overview of each:
1. Tambopata Natural Reserve:
The Tambopata Natural Reserve is located in the southeastern region of Peru, near the city of Puerto Maldonado. It is one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet, spanning over 1.3 million hectares (3.2 million acres) of pristine rainforest and encompassing various ecosystems, including lowland rainforest, oxbow lakes, and clay licks.
Key features and activities in Tambopata Natural Reserve include:
– Wildlife: The reserve is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, including macaws, jaguars, giant river otters, capybaras, and countless species of birds, insects, and plants. Visitors can embark on guided jungle tours and riverboat trips to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
– Amazon Rainforest Experience: Tambopata offers a chance to immerse yourself in the Amazon rainforest, where you can learn about the rich biodiversity, indigenous cultures, and conservation efforts. You can stay in eco-lodges and participate in activities such as canopy walks, night hikes, and visits to local communities.
– Macaw Clay Licks: The reserve is famous for its macaw clay licks, where vibrant macaws and parrots gather to ingest clay. Witnessing this colorful spectacle is a remarkable experience for bird enthusiasts.
2. Salkantay Trek Sky Lodge Dome:
The Salkantay Trek is an alternative trekking route to Machu Picchu, offering a challenging and scenic journey through the Peruvian Andes. The Salkantay Trek Sky Lodge Dome is a unique accommodation option along this route, known for its innovative design and breathtaking location.
Key features of the Salkantay Trek Sky Lodge Dome include:
– Location: The Sky Lodge Dome is perched on a mountainside, at an elevation of around 3,869 meters (12,690 feet), providing panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and valleys. It offers a stunning and secluded setting for trekkers.
– Unique Accommodation: The Sky Lodge Dome consists of transparent pods that hang from the mountainside. These pods provide comfortable lodging, including beds, dining areas, and bathrooms. Staying in one of these domes allows visitors to enjoy the starry night sky and wake up to spectacular mountain views.
– Adventure and Trekking: The Salkantay Trek is a challenging multi-day hike that takes you through diverse landscapes, including high mountain passes, cloud forests, and remote Andean villages. The trek culminates with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu ruins.
– Sustainability: The Sky Lodge Dome prioritizes sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The domes are designed to minimize the impact on the natural environment, and the lodge promotes responsible tourism and supports local communities.
Both the Tambopata Natural Reserve and the Salkantay Trek Sky Lodge Dome offer incredible experiences in Peru, showcasing the country’s natural beauty, biodiversity, and adventure opportunities.
8 Day Glamping Salkantay Trek to Machupicchu and Amazon Tambopata reserve Highlights:
Tambopata and Salkantay Trek Sky Lodge Domes offer a unique and immersive experience for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Here are the highlights of these incredible destinations:
1. Tambopata:
– Biodiversity: Tambopata is located in the Peruvian Amazon rainforest, one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. It is home to a vast array of wildlife, including hundreds of bird species, monkeys, jaguars, and giant river otters.
– Rainforest Exploration: Visitors can explore the dense rainforest through guided hikes and boat rides. These excursions provide opportunities to spot various wildlife species and learn about the intricate ecosystems of the Amazon.
– Macaw Clay Lick: Tambopata is famous for its macaw clay licks, where vibrant macaws and parrots gather to ingest clay, an important part of their diet. Witnessing the colorful spectacle of these birds is a memorable experience.
– Eco-Lodges: Tambopata offers comfortable eco-lodges nestled within the rainforest, providing a unique blend of adventure and sustainability. Visitors can stay in rustic yet cozy accommodations and enjoy amenities while being surrounded by nature.
2. Salkantay Trek:
– Scenic Beauty: The Salkantay Trek is a popular alternative to the classic Inca Trail. It offers breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and picturesque landscapes. The highlight is the majestic Salkantay Mountain, which stands at an impressive 6,271 meters (20,574 feet).
– Challenging Hiking: The Salkantay Trek is a challenging multi-day hike that takes you through diverse terrain, including high mountain passes, cloud forests, and remote Andean villages. It offers a rewarding experience for those seeking adventure and physical exertion.
– Cultural Immersion: Along the trek, you will have the opportunity to interact with local communities and learn about their traditional way of life. This cultural immersion adds a unique dimension to the journey and allows you to appreciate the rich heritage of the region.
– Sky Lodge Domes: As part of the Salkantay Trek, visitors can stay at the Sky Lodge Domes, which are Comfortable Domes. These unique accommodations offer unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains and starry night skies.
Combining the Tambopata rainforest experience with the Salkantay Trek and staying at the Sky Lodge Domes provides an unforgettable adventure, immersing you in the natural wonders of Peru and offering a blend of stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences.
We pick you up from your hotel Between 4:30 a.m to 5:00am to drive for about 2 hours to Mollepata where we stop to have breakfast. Then we keep driving 1 hour to Challacancha where start our Salkantay trek. As soon as we are at Challacancha while you get ready to walk. The cook and the horseman will pack all the camping equipment and cooking stuff and we start hiking the first 3 hours will be a little bit uphill to get Soraypampa where we will have lunch with panoramic views of beautiful snow-capped mountains (Humantay; 4120m/13500ft and Salkantay; 6271m/20575ft) – just the start! After Lunch We will begin our Hike up to Humantay Lake, and hen back to Soraypampa our first Salkantay Trek camping spot (3800 m/11750ft; the highest and coldest campsite of the trip) we will be very close to the second highest Salkantay snow capped – mountain of Cusco.
1ST DAY: Total distance: 15 km (aprox.)
Estimated walking time: 7- 8 hours
Maximum altitude point: 3,800 m (aprox.)
Campsite altitude: 3,800 m (aprox.)
After having our Salkantay Trek early breakfast we start walking about 6:00 am, because this day will be the longest day the first 4 hours is uphill to get the highest point of the Salkantay Trek (4650m/15200ft) located halfway between 2 huge mountains; Salkantay on the right and Tucarhuay on the left. From the pass, the views of the 2 snow-capped mountains are incredible. There is a possibility of snow here. After a rest, we will continue our walk (downhill) through a dramatic cloud forest towards Huayracpunku, where we will have lunch. We hike again after lunch in the direction of the start of the jungle until we reach Chaullay Where we take our Local transportation for 1 hour to Get our La Playa Loreta Coffe Campsite. The Reason we stay at this campsite is because the next day we will climb up to a mountain where you will find one of the most beautiful inca trail site which is known as Llactapata. You will also see Machu Picchu City from this point.
2ND DAY: Total distance: 19 km (aprox.)
Estimated walking time: 8 – 9 hours
Maximum altitude point: 4,650 m (aprox.)
Campsite altitude: 2,750 m (aprox.)
We will have breakfast at 6:00am and leave our camping spot of La Playa Loreta. We walk up on a original Inca Trail to Llactapata site where you will get a chance to see Machupicchu far away (one of the most beautiful place to see Machupicchu) then We continue walking, passing a variety of crop plantations, coca, banana etc. until we reach the hydroelectric station for Lunch. And after the lunch we keep walking about two and half hours till reaching Aguas Calientes town where we will spend the night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, you can take advantage of the thermal springs in the town (entrance 10 soles) a real treat after finishing the Salkantay Trek.
Please note: (For those who dont want to hike via this trail. There is a chance to take a bus to Santa Teresa and do an adventure sport of zip lining and Canopy and then transfered to hydroelectric station for Lunch and meet the group.) This has an extra Price of US$40 per person.
3RD DAY: Total distance: 15 km (aprox.)
Estimated walking time: 7 – 8 hours
Maximum altitude point: 1,600 m (aprox.)
Hotel (aguas calientes) altitude: 1,900 m (aprox.)
Salkantay trek important day! We wake up early morning about 4am to then to 4:30 to have the breakfast and Start to walk up to Machupicchu which takes 1 and half hours up to machupicchu. But there is another option to catch the first bus which leaves 5:30am to Machupicchu. (it takes 25-minutes long) in order to appreciate the magnificent city as the sun is rising. A walking tour (approximately 2 hours) is given by your Guide and after this you can explore the mysterious city by yourselves. If you still have energy you can also climb Huaynapicchu (2720m/8890ft)!!! It takes 45 minutes to reach the top.and after enjoying machupicchu you have to go down to aguas calientes to take the train back to ollantaytambo and then bus back cusco. this Night you will get a Night bus ride from Cusco to Puno at 10:00pm
4TH DAY: Total distance: 6 km (aprox.)
Estimated walking time: 1- 2 hour
Maximum altitude point: 2,700 m (aprox.)
On arrival of your bus to Puerto Maldonado, our guides or staff will meet you at the bus station and transfer you to our office to make a registration.
Your excess luggage will be stored safely in our office in Puerto Maldonado and then we will continue to the Capitania port. We take our motor boat along the Madre de Dios River for approximately – 40 minutes to Amazon Garden Lodge. A cool welcome drink awaits you.
The start of the adventure circuit is reached a tower and stairway that ascends to the treetops where a platform that marks the start of the zip-line almost 200mts long, the breathtaking views are only matched by the excitement of overcoming our fears and the adrenaline that courses through us as we leap off the platform supported by the high security harnesses that connect us to the zip- line cable to a platform 27mts high. The 75mts long of the log walkway, hanging 27m above the floor, leads off this platform, a risky balancing act, and takes us to the platform at the start of the second zip line, a 160m fly back to the tower and stairwell that descends to the forest floor. And then Return to the Amazon Garden Lodge After a well-deserved lunch, we take the kayaks to the river, well protected with high quality life jackets, and accompanied by a motor boat that guarantees extra security; this level one activity is relaxing and accessible for all. Getting Monkey Island you will be able appreciate a great diversity of monkeys such as the: capuchin, tamarines y squirrel monkeys we will put on a show of swinging through the treetops charging down the trunks of the large trees that form their home in order to accept food from your hand .
Return to Amazon Garden Lodge .Nocturnal activities are available this night we have the caiman spotting.
After a great breakfast, and distributed to each traveler lunch and snacks we’ll take the boat to get to the control of Tambopata National Reserve Zone, after 1 and half hour walking trhough the rainforest we are approaching to the famous Sandoval Lake. DIts way by immense ancient trees and entangled vines; we will be able to see multihued flower and fauna including: Giant Otters, birds, coloured butterflies, turtles, and variety of fish. We will spend few hours in canoe on this one of the most beautiful lakes in region. Return to Amazon Garden Lodge, dinner and rest.
we take to the majestic Madre de Dios River and set course downstream for an hour for the Native Community of Ese´Ejas, the largest Ese Eja community numbering about 200 families, of which we will be visiting two. The Project “Rescuing Cultural Values“, situated on Gamitana Island, is working with two families who will show us the culture of their ancestors, their language and customs, clothing and dances. In our modern, civilized world we have all but forgotten the existence of ancestral cultures and traditions. An ancient indigenous tradition like the Ese´Eja reveals to us the customs and way of life of indigenous peoples. They gift us with the opportunity to have a direct contact with a people of ancient warriors and hunters and to share their ancestral ways.and at 1.pm lunch. By the afternoon we have time to do roustic fishing in Madre de Dios river, where with some luck we’ll have chance to catch some species like pictus cat fish, small mouth,armored cat fish and red eye piranha. Back to the lodge, dinner an rest.
Parrots and parakeets need to eat rich clay that provides them with the salts and minerals necessary to metabolize and neutralize the toxins and acids of the flowers, fruits, and seeds upon which they feed. Early each day, therefore, they congregate at the salt licks, clay walls along the rivers and streams in the Madre de Dios region of the Amazon rainforest. At about 7:00am we back to the lodge, have breakfast and return to Puerto Maldonado and Drop you off at the Bus Terminal arriving between 8:30 to 9:00am
UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD (Students must be below 25 years) : US$20. Please send us a a scanned copy of the student card at the time of booking.
Under 17 years old: US$20 Please send us a copy of passport at the time of booking.
Under 12 years old: US$20 Please send us a copy of passport at the time of booking.
Group of 5 or more: US$10 per person. All you need is to book the trek together at the same time.
UPGRADES:
Huaynapicchu Mountain (Based on Availability): US$30 Based on Availability (Let us at the time of booking)
MachuPicchu Mountain (Based on Availability): US$30 Based on Availability (Let us at the time of booking)
Upgrade to Vistadome Train (First Class Train) (Includes Private Transportation From Ollantaytambo to Cusco) USUS$70
Extra Night in Aguas Calientes US$30 per person (Twin Bed room, 3 Beds room & 4 Beds Room with Private shower & Bathroom)
A night in Cusco at our Quechuas Guesthouse: from US$20 per person / Twin Bed room (Before we do the tour/trek or after the tour/trek)
RENTALS
Goose Down sleeping bag (Mummy style): US$30 for the entire trip
(Black Dimond) Walking Poles Rubber Tips Included: US$20 for the entire trip
Day Pack 20 – 30 liters (Rain cover included): US$15 for the entire trip
ADITIONAL INFO:
BRIEFING for all our treks is a Night before we do the trek at 6:30pm in our office, But if you want us to come to your Hotel let us know in advance.(You will get a chance to meet you guide and as well as to give you your duffel bags)
STORAGE Most Hotels have storage where you can leave the rest of your stuff while you hike to Machupicchu, But if they dont have a place you can leave your stuff in our storage with no extra cost. (Let us know at the time of briefing)
We need at least 02 of you and Leave any day you suit. All Departures 100% Guaranteed If You’re Booked, You are Going !!! To Confirm and Secure the Inca Trail Permits. Send us the filled out booking form as well as a deposit of 30% and you are ready to go…
PRICE 2023 – 2024 per person (Upcoming Trips 2023 – 2024) Daily Departures
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
Tambopata National Reserve Jungle & Salkantay Trek 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$1100 – 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$1350 – 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.
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 |
Other frequently Asked Questons about Treks and tours
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 Bioandean Expeditions is 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 Bioandean Expeditions 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!
What is the best time to visit Tambopata?
In Peru as in many parts of the world, there are good times, the time of the rain and the long time, but there are times when you visit Tambopata during the time of the rain, all of which will depend on what you hope to see and what you will experience in it. Amazonian salt. But we will explain to you.
How is climate on Tambopata?
In the Tambopata region is rainy from May until October, but you can lover at any time. The winds of visiting the forest during the dry season sound that the trails are not with so much mud, in the dry station it is easier to see the macaws and hay my activities of birds.
How is the rainy station?
The rainy season begins during the November months and continues until April, although these events are generally more frequent from November to December. At this time it is easier to see the macaws and the flowers in the clay collars.
Are there any safe animals?
If you want to see flowers and macaws, you can visit the animals at the dry station, with our Amazon Garden Lodge guides you can see more animals in any of my years.
What is the best moment to see monkeys?
If you decide to travel with your loved ones there are many possibilities to see you in any age of the year.
The monkeys are coming red, the Monkeys are red, and the troops of squirrel monkeys come with fruits around the lakes, The Spider Monkey is most easy to encounter during the season that sells to come fruit, but with our guides you will not lose them more peculiar animals
What type of equipment to take to the Tambopata tour?
We recommend not carrying more than 15 kilos (33 pounds per piece).
You can already have your heavier equipment at our new office in Puerto Maldonado.
What to bring for my Tambopata tour?
Can I flight Drones around Tambopata?
No, piloting drones is not permitted in our ecolodges because the wildlife and the forest is dense. Furthermore, we must respect the flora and fauna that may be affected by the drone and may also destroy your drone.
What is the recommended order to take your guests to the Lodge?
We are safe for you to travel with your children, because the experience of traveling in Peru is one of the most rewarding things, but we do not recommend traveling with children under 3 years old; children between 3 and 7 years old are most recommended, but they do not have any activities that take place in the early morning or end very late. But if you’re a child less than 8 years old, you might enjoy more activities; Please note that, if your children are unable to do so, the guides do not hold you responsible for the charge.
For other reasons, it is recommended to take a bottle of first aids that is suitable for use.
What vacations are required to visit Tambopata?
The Peruvian Amazon, depending on the climate that you are always recommended to receive the necessary vacuums, consult your head doctor in advance before knowing this information; Most recommended is to be taken between 4 and 6 weeks beforehand. If you do not require vaccinations to travel to Peru, the Center for Control and the Prevention of Diseases of the United States (CDC) has the following recommendations:
What happens in the case of a medical emergency?
All of our activities in the Peruvian region we have first aid kit to deal with the majority of cases that may arise.
All our new guides are certified, which means that they are prepared to deal with foreseeable emergencies (break bones or bites of snakes) but not complete emergencies (like an apprehension).
For snake bites, Until now unknown in Tambopata, we have extractors and an antidote in each lodge. In the event of evacuation, we must travel to the Puerto Maldonado. During the day, evacuations take approximately 20% less time than our regular ships. During the night, evacuations are expected to be approximately 30% more. In Puerto Maldonado you can visit a Clinic
Can I drink the water?
We provide natural water for 24 hours of the day, but we do not recommend drink water from the river, lake or any tree.
We have water for drink in many areas of the hotel. We Purify the water with treatment based on ozone. Drinking water is available in the hotel, and in the world, so we must use it wisely.
How is the climate in Tambopata?
In Tambopata, the daytime temperature varies between 78°F and 93°F (24°C and 31°C), but the average nighttime temperature is between 66°F and 78°F (20°C and 24°C).
From May to September, the frequent cold weather from Argentina can warm up to the south-west of the Amazon, raising daytime temperatures to 50°F (9°C) and nighttime temperatures to 43°F (5°C). In this case, it is recommended that the clothes are suitable for the cold and the cold weather for this time.
The November holidays in April are considered as the weather of the rain, with the rain that may persist for hours or days. During this period, 80% of the annual average precipitation of 3000 mm is maintained. Prepare for adverse climatic conditions and intense rain.
What type of soap and shampoo is recommended in Tambopata?
Following our environmental guidelines, we use exclusively biodegradable products, such as soap and shampoo made from Brazil nuts, which you can find in the bathroom.
In case of being allergic to the clouds, we advise, and we facilitate a lemon juice. Both towels and towels are washed with a biodegradable detergent, and the bathrooms are cleaned with environmentally friendly products.
Are there phones available in the Albergue?
We have phone available in our hotel! In case of emergency, we can obtain signal on our cellular phone
Is smoking permitted?
Is allowed to smoke in the lobby and bar, except during lunch hours. Please do not smoke in your room, at restaurants, on boats or during activities.
Are there security boxes in the Lodge?
Please request the security box to keep your important documents and papers. Avoid having valuable objects on view of others.
If you require guidance or proper use of the security box, do not hesitate to consult your route guide or the loaded accommodation.
What personal articles should be found at the Tambopata tour?
We recommend that you use a sunscreen, a battery charger, a small backpack, a water bottle, floor glasses, a bag holder, a passport, a waterproof bag and insect repellent.
What recommendations are necessary to save the volume of photos?
It is advisable to protect your photography equipment with a water-protected package. For constant humidity in the tropical forest, we recommend storing any losses in plastic bags and taking precautions when using them.
How is the electrician in the hotel?
The electrical supply varies depending on the location in the Ecolodges. It provides energy of 220 volts in specific times, and in certain areas it uses solar energy of 12 volts.
What are the necessary tips for traveling on the road?
Avoid traveling alone in the forest. It is recommended to cover it completely and use it accordingly. Please be careful to avoid snakes and hormones.
Do you want to have extra food for the tour?
We recommend taking a small amount of dinner in case you need an extra baby at the Lodge like refreshments, beer, babies and/or tips for the staff will be at your service.
In the round is the option of vegetarian nutrition in the Tambopata tower?
Please send us an email for our vegetarian options with your food requirements.
Are you safe in the Tambopata rivers?
We do not recommend enter to the rivers due to the presence of caimans and other aquatic animals. It is best enjoyed by the rivers in a box or in the shore.
I Can book for night excursions?
Yes, we have options for night tours to observe the night life. These excursions are guided tours and offer opportunities for worm species such as luminous insects, frogs, caimans and other animals.