Before You Go: Machu Picchu Explorer

Overview

Sample Itinerary

We pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every trip is different depending upon the group, other trips in the area and sometimes the weather. The following is a sample of what your trip might be like:

Day 1: Arrive into Cusco, Afternoon City and Ruins Tour

Upon arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco, Peru, you will be greeted by an OARS representative and transferred to our hotel.  We suggest you arrive into Cusco anytime this morning.

The late morning and early afternoon is free to settle-in, relax and enjoy lunch on your own. We will meet at approximately 2:00 PM for a city and ruins tour of Cusco before a lively welcome dinner with folk music, in great anticipation of the adventure to come.

Sonesta Hotel Cusco or similar (D)

Please note: If you are arriving to Cusco ahead of the OARS program, we can arrange additional guided tours, airport transfer and extra nights of accommodation. Contact your OARS Adventure Consultant for more details.

Day 2: Sacred Valley: Volunteering and Ollantaytambo Ruins

This morning we will drive from Cusco to the Sacred Valley and the historic town of Ollantaytambo, considered the last gateway along the Inca Trail in route to Machu Picchu and home of the Incan archaeological site of Ollantaytambo. We will visit this famous market with our guide to purchase ingredients for a well-balanced breakfast: fruits, oatmeal, milk, cheese, bread and eggs. From there, we’ll head to the Cachiccata School to prepare and serve breakfast for the appreciative students. This meal will help supply much-needed energy and focus during a full day of learning. Take some time and relish in the smiles, laughter and youthful energy! Many guests like to bring school supplies as well. You can purchase supplies at the Ollantaytambo market, helping support local businesses or bring donated supplies from friends and family members back home. Bringing school supplies for the school children is optional.

After time playing games with the students, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before the short transfer to our hotel for the evening. After resting up, we’ll rejoin our guide for a tour around Ollantaytambo where we explore the village and Inca sites while learning the history of the surrounding area. We make it back to the hotel in time for dinner, before parting ways for the night.

Pakaritampu Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 3: Trans-Andean Drive, Rafting the Lower Urubamba River and Farm Tour

After breakfast, we depart on a three-to-four hour trans-Andean journey towards Machu Picchu.  We’ll ascend the winding road up the high pass of Malaga, reaching 14,160 ft above sea level, before making our descent into the Amazonian cloud forest and the village of Santa Maria, located on the backside of Machu Picchu. Along the way we’ll enjoy a quick visit at an Inca site. Continuing to El Mangal Farm, we’ll have lunch before heading to the river.
*Note that if you are susceptible to being car sick, you may require a prophylactic due to the bumpy and winding nature of the roads.

Ready for rafting, we’ll prepare with a safety briefing before starting our river adventure through fun, Class II-III rapids.  We’ll navigate fun rapids and float through a scenic, jungle environment.  Afterward, we’ll return to the farm and our lodging for the night, where there may be time to rest before exploring the farm with a guided tour of its abundant cacao, coffee and fruit plantation.

El Mangal Farm Lodge (B, L, D)

Day 4: Jungle Zip Lining* and Hike to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes)

Ready for another day of adventure, we’ll enjoy a farm-fresh breakfast before continuing our journey toward Machu Picchu. A two-hour drive will bring us to Cola de Mono, located near Santa Teresa village.

Cola de Mono is home to our zipline canopy tour, where we’ll receive safety instructions, gear-up, and soar through the jungle canopy on six different zip line cables.  The approach to reach the zip line is steep and conditions are humid and often slippery, so we take our time to reach the first platform.  The exciting canopy tour reaches almost 500 ft off the valley floor, offers a cable spanning 1300 ft, and even includes a short via ferrata to get from one platform to another.

*There is an alternative option to the zipline – you may choose to hike an Andean trail to Cocalmayo Hotsprings (involves a 20-minute drive and about 2-hours of hiking.)

We will then take a short drive to the start of our three-hour/six mile hike along the spectacular Urubamba River canyon to Machu Picchu Pueblo (also known as Aguas Calientes). While hiking we’ll see an abundance of local flora along the way. Equally exciting is the occasional passenger train which comes rumbling by, alongside our pathway to the ancient Inca city.
If you’d prefer not to hike, there is an option of boarding a train at 4:30 PM for the 45-minute train ride to town.

Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 5: Machu Picchu 

Today, we’ll get an early start to make the most of our time at the unparalleled Machu Picchu. Here, high above the Urubamba River, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of the extraordinary ‘Lost City of the Incas.’ Made up of approximately 200 distinct buildings, Machu Picchu is believed to have been a religious retreat and royal estate, rather than an administrative or commercial center. The residences, temples, storage areas and public areas are built mainly from blocks of granite, each piece fitting together with almost unbelievable precision. No mortar was used in the Inca-style construction, yet at most junctions even the slimmest of blades cannot wedge between the pieces of stone.

After lunch we return to town where you’re free to spend the afternoon exploring and taking in the lively culture of this bustling little town.  Or you may choose to immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings of our hotel, home to fantastic bird watching, the world’s largest native orchid collection, and much more.

Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 6: Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes)

Much of the day is yours to spend as you please, whether relaxing or taking in activities such as another visit to Machu Picchu, bird watching, visiting the nearby orchid collections or other activities offered by the hotel. Those choosing to go back to Machu Picchu must pay transport and entrance fees. You may also enjoy strolling the streets and shops of this quaint town or visiting the local hot springs.

*Note that regulations limit the number of visitors to Machu Picchu and therefore if you wish to return this day, advance notice may be required to ensure a ticket to enter is available.

Around 1:30 PM we’ll board the train for our return journey to Cusco. We’ll travel by rail to Ollantaytambo and by vehicle back to Cusco.  We’ll check into our hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, toasting our incredible adventure.

Sonesta Hotel Cusco or similar (B, D)

Day 7: Depart Cusco

You’re free to enjoy Cusco at your leisure. We include one group transfer to the airport for departing flights.  Later transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, or you’re welcome to simply arrange a taxi. (B)

Included in Your Trip Cost

• Skilled, professional guide service provided by our affiliate operator
• 6 nights lodging (based on double occupancy)
• All meals as outlined in the itinerary (B-breakfast; L-lunch; D-dinner)
• Bottled water throughout the trip, including with meals
• Airport arrival transfer on day 1 and one group transfer on day 7 (transfers outside days 1 & 7 can be arranged for an additional cost)
• All activities and related equipment as outlined in the itinerary
• Highest quality inflatable rafts and related equipment including spray jacket, helmet, paddle and personal flotation device
• Machu Picchu entrance fees on day 5 (includes a ticket to hike Huayna Picchu)
• Ground transportation as outlined in the itinerary
• 27-oz Klean Kanteen water bottle

Not Included in Your Trip Cost

• Flights to and from Cusco, Peru
• Airport transfers outside days 1 & 7, and additional accommodation (contact our office to arrange)
• Single supplement fee
• Additional beverages at meals, such as soda and alcohol
• Return to Machu Picchu on day 6 (entrance, transport, tickets for side hikes)
• Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan or mandatory emergency medical & evacuation coverage
• Items of personal nature (see suggested packing list below)
• Medical immunizations (if necessary)
• Gratuities

TRIP PREPARATION CHECKLIST

☐ Consider Purchasing Travel Protection: For complete details and to purchase the plan we highly recommend, visit:  www.oars.com/tpp

In order to take part in this trip, each participant must have a minimum of Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage in place for the dates of the trip.  This can be purchased as stand-alone coverage, independent of a comprehensive travel protection plan.  You can get a quote for this type of policy by entering a Trip Cost amount of $0 when getting a quote here:  www.oars.com/tpp

Please note: By entering a Trip Cost amount of $0, the plan will not include Trip Cancellation coverage and you may not be eligible for Emergency Medical Expense benefits relating to any pre-existing conditions.

☐ Trip Forms (online): Each participant will need to complete the required trip forms within two weeks of making a booking. Refer to your confirmation e-mail for the link to the online forms. If you prefer to fill out paper forms, please let us know right away. If you are reserving within 90 days of departure, your forms must be completed immediately to ensure we can properly plan for your trip.

☐ Reserve flights, shuttles and lodging: Verify with your Adventure Consultant that your trip has met minimum numbers prior to booking flights and/or reserving overnight lodging for the night before and after your trip, if applicable.

☐ Whitewater Orientation: To increase your safety, we expect everyone to watch our 23-minute Whitewater Orientation video before joining us. Watch at https://www.oars.com/experience/safety/ or call 800-346-6277 to request a free DVD. Please don’t leave home without watching.

☐ Physical Requirements: Your outdoor adventure will be an active participatory trip. Please inform us of any physical limitation you may have as soon as possible.  Make sure you are exercising frequently in the months leading up to your trip and can meet our essential eligibility requirements.

☐ Payments: Final payment is due in our office 90 days prior to your trip (refer to your invoice for final payment date). Please let us know if you would like us to automatically charge your credit card on file when final payment is due.

Travel Arrangements

Essential Travel Documents

Passports

If you don’t have a passport, apply for one immediately because the process can be lengthy. If you do have a passport, find it and check the expiration date to see that it is valid for six months beyond your scheduled arrival date to Peru.  If not, you must renew it.  Passport details are required to secure entrance into Machu Picchu, so plan to provide a good copy to us immediately, as tickets to enter Machu Picchu are limited and in high demand.

Make a photocopy of the photo page of your passport and carry it separately from your passport. It is also a good idea to leave a copy with your emergency contact at home. If your passport is lost or stolen, a photocopy will help the local consulate speed up authorization for replacement. Also check your passport for blank pages. If you do not have at least two blank pages in your passport, we recommend that you apply to have extra pages added.

Do not pack your passport in your checked-in luggage. You may be asked for your papers at various times during the trip. If you are carrying a customs form, please keep it in a safe place at all times (we do not recommend carrying it in the passport because we often must submit the passport at hotels, where reception clerks can easily lose the form).

Visas

A visa is not required for U.S. citizens to enter Peru. For non-U.S. citizens please check with the consulate.

Mandatory Evacuation Insurance

We require that you purchase emergency medical evacuation insurance to participate in this expedition. This can be purchased as stand-alone coverage, independent of a comprehensive travel protection plan.  You can get a quote for this type of policy by entering a Trip Cost amount of $0 when getting a quote here:  www.oars.com/tpp

Please note: By entering a Trip Cost amount of $0, the plan will not include Trip Cancellation coverage and you may not be eligible for Emergency Medical Expense benefits relating to any pre-existing conditions.

Because there are costs that you will incur if you cancel the spaces on this trip that we’re now holding for you, or in the event you need to be evacuated during the trip due to an unforeseen illness or injury, we strongly encourage our guests to purchase an optional travel protection plan.  A travel protection plan may help reimburse the cost of your pre-paid, non-refundable payments in the event you are prevented from taking your trip for a covered reason. Trip participants must understand that in the event of an illness or injury on a wilderness trip, evacuation can be prolonged, difficult and expensive.  For complete details and to purchase the plan we highly recommend, visit:  www.oars.com/tpp

Please note: To be eligible for coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, you must purchase the plan within 21 days of your initial trip payment and you must be medically fit to travel at the time you pay for the plan.

Trip Description

Multi-Sport

Something for everyone! Increasingly popular with our repeat travelers, our multi-sport adventures are an easygoing way to explore—combining rafting and hiking with other fun-filled activities that take advantage of the best this region has to offer. Activities on the itinerary include rafting, hiking, zip-lining, guided archaeological exploration and time for relaxing on your own agenda.

Meals

Peru is known worldwide for its unique and varied cuisine. You will be able to experience a great variety of regional foods during your adventure. Peru’s variety in cuisines is based on the ancient cultural traditions of the Incas and their predecessors, the diversity of its ecosystems and the more recent influence of European and Asian culinary traditions. In the markets, you will discover the great festival of colors, aromas and flavors.

The mountainous region is noted for a great variety of corn dishes. There are also countless offerings of potato due to Peru‘s vast variety of the tuber. Researchers believe that Peru is host to over 4,000 varieties of potato. Other flavorful offerings of this region include alpaca and guinea pig seasoned with Andean products such as chili peppers, goosefoot, black mint or pampa savory. Regardless of where you are—urban or rural—you will be delighted by the incredible variety of traditional foods served.

Dietary Restrictions

We need to know as soon as possible about any dietary restrictions we must consider in planning your trip.  If you have food allergies or restrictions, we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Beyond our standard menu, we can provide options for vegetarian, vegan and many allergy-restricted diets.  However, we cannot always provide the same diversity or sophistication for restricted diets as we do for our regular menu.

We cannot guarantee that cross-contamination from allergens will not occur during meal prep, and reserve the right to refuse service to anyone as it relates to safety, including the potential for a medical emergency caused by a severe food allergy. Also, due to availability of ingredients or specialty items in remote locations, and limited packing space, we may be unable to cater to dietary preferences (likes or dislikes).

Beverages / Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages are not included with the cost of your Peruvian adventure, but are readily available at lodgings and restaurants. Pisco and chicha are well known cocktails in Peru. Pisco is the delicious result of the blending of European grapevines, sun of the south Peruvian coast and the traditional knowledge of the potters who make the jars in which the drink is aged. The color of pisco is transparent, its flavor strong and its odor slightly fragrant. The delicate brandy can be drunk straight or as the ever-popular cocktail—the Pisco Sour.

The other popular Peruvian alcoholic beverage is the corn-based chicha. Chicha is an integral part of many pre-Hispanic rituals. In many areas of the Andes it is still prepared as it has been for hundreds of years. It is drunk in fermented and unfermented forms, and tends to have low alcohol content. It is often spiced and served with fruit.

Drinking Water

We recommend you drink only bottled or previously boiled water, and that you bring a refillable water bottle or similar device, especially when traveling in remote locations.  A limited supply of bottled water is provided; at times you may wish to purchase water.

Cameras

We strongly recommend you take out a rider on your homeowner’s policy to cover your camera, especially if it’s fine equipment. If you are planning on bringing a digital camera make sure to bring additional memory cards, batteries, and any other extras you will need.

Electronics & Technology

The use of electronic devices, especially music players and flying drones, on your trip may represent an intrusion into the wilderness experience of your fellow guests. We ask that you please be mindful of the impacts to others and respect the wilderness nature of the trip.  Please bring headphones if you intend to listen to music during the trip and leave your drone at home*.

On a trip like this, there is always the risk of water damage to smartphones and other electronic devices, even when they are stowed in a dry bag. If you intend to take your phone with you on the river, consider investing in a small, waterproof case just for your phone.

*The use of drones is prohibited in Machu Picchu sanctuary.

Electricity

Peru uses an electrical current of 220 volts. If your electrical devices work only with 110 volts, you should bring a converter. While some hotel may have outlets to accommodate 110 volts or have a limited supply of converters to loan, you may want to bring your own to be certain.
Outlets are primarily type A, which don’t require an adapter for most modern electronics. We recommend you bring a power plug adapter to avoid an problems using the electrical outlets.  You can learn more at http://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/peru/

Communication

Once you are on your adventure there will be times with limited communication with the “outside world.” However, the majority of the region has cellular coverage and hotels offer internet (but not all). If you have someone that needs to contact you about an emergency at home, they should call our office (800-346-6277). If possible, we will relay the message to you. Keep in mind it could be several days or longer before the message actually reaches you. For your family at home you should define for them what you consider an emergency and provide them with instructions to call our office in the event one occurs during your vacation.

Money Matters

The official currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol. Money can be exchanged at the airport in Lima or Cusco, at the Money Exchange Offices known as “Casas de Cambio” or at banks. In Cusco, the U.S. dollar is accepted in many commercial shops at the daily rate of exchange. ATMs are available in the larger cities and many offer the choice of U.S. or Peruvian currency. Once outside the cities, it is helpful to have local currency for any purchases such as water or souvenirs.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are readily accepted in Lima and Cusco, but it is suggested that you have cash for purchases outside of the cities. Check with your credit card provider regarding surcharges for international purchases and be sure to alert the provider of your planned travels prior to your departure.

Health and Medical Information

Although we do not require any immunizations to participate on the Machu Picchu Explorer, it is important that you be up-to-date on several standard immunizations and that you check with your physician prior to departure. The CDC also is a good resource for recommendations pertaining to international travel immunizations.

Traveling at High Altitude

This trip includes time spent at high altitudes. Cusco is 11,200 feet above sea level and the Sacred Valley is from 7,000-9,000 feet above sea level. You may at first move more slowly, rest more frequently, have some restlessness at night, and be subject to headaches. We design each of our trips for adequate altitude conditioning in the early part of the journey. However, be forewarned that there are no guarantees that your body will acclimatize properly. Please see our High Altitude information sheet for more details. Additionally, if you have a heart condition or high blood pressure we request that you check with your physician prior to traveling at high altitude.  Please familiarize yourself with symptoms, treatment and more about altitude illness at the CDC.

Menstrual Cycle

Even if you aren’t anticipating your menstrual period, come prepared for it. We recommend you bring some sandwich-size Ziploc™ bags. These bags can be used to store products during the day while on the trail. Used pads or tampons can be disposed of in the trash at the lodge. We provide some menstrual products for emergencies.

CPAP Machine

If you require the use of a CPAP machine and intend to bring one with you, be sure to alert your OARS Adventure Consultant prior to your trip to let us know the dimensions of the machine, description of battery(s), and any protective case(s). Travel-sized CPAPs are readily available and often come with a battery kit. You must assess the power needs of your CPAP and bring the battery(s) needed to operate it for each night of your travels.  We’re typically able to accommodate the transportation of your machine and accessories on the trip; however, please understand that despite efforts to protect your equipment we can’t guarantee your machine and accessories won’t suffer water or impact damage and therefore we recommend additional protective case(s) for your machine & accessories.

Weather

You may want to check the weather in Cusco, Peru a week prior to your trip for an up-to-date forecast.

The highlands of the Andes—the locale of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and the Urubamba River—usually have very little rain from May to September, and a rainy season that lasts from November to March, with heaviest rains in January and February. Temperatures remain fairly constant year round with daytime averages in the upper 60s, and nighttime lows to the mid-30s. Please note that there are sudden temperature drops after sunset. Cusco is 11,200 feet above sea level and the Sacred Valley area is from 7,000-9,000 feet above sea level.

CUSCO 

MACHU PICCHU

Time Zones

Peru is located in the same international time zone as the US east coast. During Daylight Savings Time in the US, Peru is on Central Time.

Getting Ready

Traveler Responsibility Code

1. Read the pre-trip literature and arrive at the meeting place on time.

2. Understand the risks: your safety is ultimately your responsibility.

3. Treat your fellow guests and guides with respect and courtesy; harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.

4. Wear clothing and personal protective equipment suitable for the current conditions.

5. Listen to and follow the guides’ instructions.

6. Abide by the managing agency’s rules.

7. No drugs or alcohol or during the day; alcohol is allowed in moderation at the lodges.

8. Minimize your impact on the environment.

9. Your children are your responsibility!

Packing for Your Trip

The information below is subject to when your trip takes place. The need for warm weather or cold weather items should be based on a reliable weather forecast leading up to your trip.

Clothing for physical activity should be quick-drying and made of merino wool or synthetics. Warmth and comfort are the main objectives with this outline. Weather conditions can vary considerably. It’s important to dress in layers so that you can maintain a comfortable body temperature no matter what Mother Nature may have in store. The inner base layer should move perspiration outside, where it can evaporate. The intermediate layer should insulate while the outside layer should act as a barrier to wind and rain.

Clothing

Day & hiking wear— For most days of your adventure, casual, comfortable clothing is best.  Consider long sleeves and pants for sun and bug protection.  Quick-dry clothing packs light and cleans easy.  For boating, start with sunscreen, a swimsuit or shorts and long-sleeved shirt to protect you from the sun. You can add additional layers, such as the splash jacket and pants depending on the weather.  Keep lightweight merino wool or synthetic layers handy, to keep warm as temperatures vary as our elevations change.

Evening wear— After a long day on the river or trail, you will want to refresh and change into clean comfortable clothing. Soft, loose-fitting shorts or pants, t-shirts, etc. will allow you to truly relax in the evening and you will want to have something dry and warm such as long sleeved shirts, pants and fleece. Casual travel wear is appropriate throughout the trip.

To avoid being cold: Synthetic or merino wool long underwear is a must-have on adventure trips. It can be worn under shorts, rain gear, T-shirts, etc., then stripped off when temperatures rise. It keeps you warm even if it’s wet (which can happen easily), dries quickly, and is compact enough to be stuffed into your daypack after you take it off. It can be layered under your waterproof rain jacket and pants. Be aware that cotton items, once wet, do not insulate; only synthetic and wool materials will keep you warm if wet.

Something warm for your top & bottom: You need to be prepared for inclement weather. Bring a good fleece or wool top and bottom, along with a warm hat and gloves. You’ll want to double up on your synthetic layers so that you’ll have a set to wear in the boat and a set of warm, dry clothes for the evening.

Footwear

You’ll need a pair of comfortable hiking or athletic shoes with good tread. If you plan to buy footwear for the trip make sure you get it far enough in advance to break it in and wear your footwear until it’s comfy—if your feet hurt you won’t enjoy the trip.

While rafting— The best choice is an amphibious shoe that drains water, protects your toes and won’t come off in swirling current. A retired pair of athletic shoes can work well, too. Sport sandals with a heel strap are another good option. Find professional-grade options made by Chaco®, the official footwear sponsor of OARS guides.
We can provide wetsuit booties with a rubber sole, as well.

Headwear

Wide-brimmed hats are a good choice for sun protection. Ball caps are also useful since they fit under helmets, which are required attire when paddling our whitewater rivers.

Sun Protection

This trip takes place at very high elevations and protecting yourself from the sun should be taken very seriously. Protecting yourself from the sun should be taken very seriously! In many cases, a long-sleeve shirt is the best method for preventing sunburn on your upper body. Light-weight long pants may also be appropriate to protect your legs.

A hat, sunscreen, lip balm and sunglasses are also a must. Rheos, the official sunglasses sponsor of OARS guides, offers polarized floatable nautical eyewear with 100% UV protection. Use promo code OARS15 to save 15% on any purchase from The Nautical Eyewear Collection.

Bugs & Mosquitoes

Bugs and mosquitoes vary depending on location and time of year. It’s a good idea to come prepared with insect repellent. Long sleeved shirts and pants may be desirable at times.

Packing List

Equipment and Personal Items:

☐ Water bottle: durable and reusable
☐ Sunglasses (preferably polarized such as Rheos floatable eyewear www.rheosgear.com) with securing strap (consider bringing a spare)
☐ Daypack
☐ Toiletries
☐ Sunscreen and lip protection: waterproof & SPF 30 or higher
☐ Moisturizing lotion or cream
☐ Insect repellent
☐ Personal first aid kit (Band-Aids, antibiotic ointment, ibuprofen, moleskin, eye drops, etc.)
☐ Spare pair of glasses and/or contacts
☐ Cash for gratuities and incidentals

Footwear:

☐ Athletic shoes or light hikers
☐ Comfortable shoes for evenings (sandals or flip flops)
☐ River shoes or sandals with a heel strap (such as those made by Chaco®)
☐ Hiking socks

Clothing:

☐ Long-sleeved shirts: lightweight and light color for sun protection
☐ Long pants: lightweight and light color for sun protection
☐ Casual wear: comfortable and lightweight for travel and evenings
☐ Shorts
☐ T-shirts
☐ Shade hat or visor with securing strap and a spare
☐ Rain jacket and pants
☐ Swimsuit / swim trunks: 2- piece suits recommended for women. Tankinis are a great option
☐ Underwear: quick-drying
☐ T-shirts/tops
☐ Warm fleece or insulated jacket

Optional Items:

☐ Headlamp or flashlight (consider bringing spare batteries)
☐ Camera and accessories
☐ Small bags: stuff sacs, zip locks or similar for organizing items in your dry bag
☐ Sarong: useful for sun protection, evaporative cooling, changing clothes, etc
☐ Sketchbook, notebook and pen, paperback book
☐ Bandana
☐ Binoculars
☐ Ankle gaiters (to keep dirt & mud out of your shoes)

Find all the gear you need for your trip online in the OARStore + 15% of your purchase helps provide under-resourced youth with outdoor adventure experiences.

Packing Your Gear

Soft-sided luggage is ideal for transporting throughout your trip, as we’ll be loading bags into our van on a daily basis. Bringing only what is necessary will save time packing and repacking. Extra baggage can be an unwanted burden for yourself and others.

Machu Picchu by train on Peru Rail: Weight regulations for Peru Rail limit travelers to one carry-on backpack with a maximum weight of 11 lbs (5 kg) and one checked bag with a maximum weight of 22 lbs (10 kg). Therefore, we will provide you with a small duffel bag that you can pack into, bringing only what you need for these two nights.  We will provide storage for your travel bag, reducing your total luggage weight when traveling to & from Machu Picchu by train.

Airlines often restrict baggage and charges for additional weight and/or bags can be expensive. Check with your carrier for their regulations.

Extra Luggage

If you have extra luggage it can be stored at our hotel in Cusco and retrieved upon return on day 6.

Gratuities

If you feel your guides have provided a very special trip for you, you may leave a gratuity with the trip leader to be shared among the crew. This tip is entirely at your discretion, though we recommend a general tipping guideline of anything between 10% and 15% of trip cost. If you plan to tip, remember to have cash. ATM’s are available in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.

• Principal guide: $5-10 per person per day
• Assistant guide: $3-5 per person per day (only present for larger groups)
• Raft and zipline guides: $5-10 per person
• Driver: $3 per person per day
• Airport and hotel bellboys: $2 for luggage
• Restaurants: $10-15 per waiter for the group
  

Something Voluntary

In reviewing your statement, you’ll notice a $1 per person per day donation to International Rivers, a non-profit conservation organization dedicated to protecting rivers and defending the rights of the surrounding communities. Their work helps stop destructive dams and promotes water and energy solutions for a just and sustainable world. One-hundred percent of these funds go directly to protecting rivers, and your contribution is tax-deductible. Please notify our office if you would prefer to delete the donation from your balance.

Helpful Links

Gear up in the OARStore where 15% of all purchases help fund outdoor adventures for under-resourced youth
www.oars.com/OARStore

Shop for the latest in top-quality clothing, footwear & outdoor gear
www.rei.com

Recommended Reading List
www.oars.com/blog/best-machu-picchu-books

Terms & Conditions

Reservations and Deposits

A $1,000/person deposit is required at the time of reservation. Deposits may be made by check, money order or Visa/Mastercard (American Express and Discover incur a 3% processing fee). Prices are in US Dollars and all payments must be made in US Dollars.  Payment of the deposit establishes your acceptance of our complete Terms and Conditions. Individual departures and trip capacity are strictly limited by the managing agency.

Cancelling your trip after your deposit is processed will incur cancellation fees because OARS has absorbed costs on your behalf and will turn others away who would like to book the spaces we’re holding for you. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Accounts on which final payment has not been received 80 days prior to the departure date will be cancelled without exception.

Cancellations and Refunds

Your deposit is fully refundable, less a 3% processing fee, for 7 days after you book when you submit a deposit 7 days or more prior to the final payment due date.

If you must cancel your reservation after the rescission period described above, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the schedule below.  We regret we cannot make exceptions to the cancellation policy for any reason, including foul weather, poor air quality, wildfire activity, acts of terrorism, civil unrest or personal emergencies.  There is no refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to consider purchasing a travel protection plan (see Travel Protection below).

Requests to transfer a date will be treated as a cancellation, per the terms above.

Cancelled Trips

OARS International and the outfitter Apumayo Expediciones reserve the right to cancel any trip due to insufficient registration or other factors that make the trip impractical to operate. Do not make nonrefundable travel arrangements unless you have spoken to your Adventure Consultant regarding the status of your trip.

If a trip must be cancelled or postponed due to force majeure (factors outside the control of OARS), OARS will provide full credit for payments made toward future travel, or a refund less a 5% service fee plus any nonrefundable payments made on your behalf to 3^rd-party suppliers.  OARS will make good faith efforts to recover deposits made on your behalf to 3^rd-party suppliers, however we can’t guarantee recovery of any or all of the advance payments made.  OARS is not responsible for expenses incurred by participants in preparation for a cancelled trip.

Medical

Under most circumstances, if you are of an adventurous spirit and in reasonably good health, you should have no problem enjoying this trip. People with medical conditions, including pregnancy, should have a physician’s approval before taking an adventure travel trip.

Travel Protection

Because there are costs that you will incur if you cancel the spaces on this trip that we’re now holding for you, or in the event you need to be evacuated during the trip due to an unforeseen illness or injury, we strongly encourage our guests to purchase an optional travel protection plan.  A travel protection plan may help reimburse the cost of your pre-paid, non-refundable payments in the event you are prevented from taking your trip for a covered reason. Trip participants must understand that in the event of an illness or injury on a wilderness trip, evacuation can be prolonged, difficult and expensive.  For complete details and to purchase the plan we highly recommend, visit:  www.oars.com/tpp

Please note: To be eligible for coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, you must purchase the plan within 21 days of your initial trip payment and you must be medically fit to travel at the time you pay for the plan.

In order to take part in this trip, each participant must have a minimum of Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage in place for the dates of the trip.  This can be purchased as stand-alone coverage, independent of a comprehensive travel protection plan.  You can get a quote for this type of policy by entering a Trip Cost amount of $0 when getting a quote here:  www.oars.com/tpp

Please note: By entering a Trip Cost amount of $0, the plan will not include Trip Cancellation coverage and you may not be eligible for Emergency Medical Expense benefits relating to any pre-existing conditions.

Liability Release / Assumption of Risk

Everyone is required to sign a standard liability release/assumption of risk form before the trip, confirming awareness that there are inherent risks associated with the trip. Due to the nature of the activities, a condition of your participation is that you will sign this form and return it to our office before the trip begins. Anyone who refuses to sign the form will not be allowed to participate, and consistent with OARS International cancellation policy, there will be no refund of the trip fees at that time.

Responsibility – An Important Notice

O.A.R.S. International, Inc., Apumayo Expediciones and cooperating agencies act only in the capacity of agent for the participants in all matters relating to transportation and/or all other related travel services, and assume no responsibility however caused for injury, loss or damage to person or property in connection with any service, including but not limited to that resulting directly or indirectly from acts of God, detention, annoyance, delays and expenses arising from quarantine, pandemics, strikes, theft, pilferage, force majeure, failure of any means of conveyance to arrive or depart as scheduled, civil disturbances, government restrictions or regulations, and discrepancies or change in transit over which it has no control. Reasonable changes in itinerary may be made where deemed advisable for the comfort and well-being of the participants, including cancellation due to water fluctuation, insufficient bookings (this trip requires a minimum of 4 guests), and other factors. There is risk in whitewater rafting, particularly during high-water conditions. Rafts, dories and kayaks do capsize. You could be swept overboard. Your guide will make every attempt to assist, but you must be strong and agile enough to “self-help” and “float-it-out” without further endangering yourself or others. We reserve the right not to accept passengers weighing more than 260 pounds or with a waist/chest size exceeding 56 inches. We may decide, at any time, to exclude any person or group for any reason we feel is related to the safety of our trips. We are experienced at accommodating people with various disabilities. Please give us an opportunity to make you feel welcome. We need to discuss any special requirements ahead of time. On advancement of deposit the depositor agrees to be bound by the above recited terms and conditions. Prices subject to change without notice.  We are experienced at accommodating people with various disabilities. Please give us an opportunity to make you feel welcome. However, we need to discuss any special requirements ahead of time. We may decide, at any time, to exclude any person or group for any reason we feel is related to the safety of our trips. 

OARS trips occur in areas where unpredictable environmental conditions are to be expected.  To moderate dangerous situations for our guests and guides, all travelers must obey the rules and regulations as determined by the managing agencies and the Trip Leader and demonstrate reasonable consideration for other guests and OARS employees.  We reserve the right to remove any guest from a trip if, in our opinion, that guest’s actions or behaviors pose a threat to the safety of her/himself or others, or if those actions or behaviors compromise the enjoyment of the trip for others.  Should a guest be asked to leave a trip, there will be no refund for the unused portion, nor will OARS be responsible for additional expenses incurred by the guest for accommodations, return transport, change fees, etc. Prices subject to change without notice.  OARS is an equal opportunity provider.

Apumayo Expediciones:

Apumayo Expediciones, a travel partner of OARS. International, is the operator of this trip. Upon arrival, a representative will meet you and escort you throughout the program. These staff members are the very best and will strive to ensure your complete satisfaction.