Before You Go: Machu Picchu Hiker – 7 Days

Overview

Sample Itinerary

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

Day 1 / Sunday: Arrive to Cusco, Afternoon City and Ruins Tour

An OARS representative will meet you upon arrival at the airport (or at the Sonesta Hotel if you arrived prior to day 1).  From there, you’ll be taken to our hotel where you can check into your room, relax and have lunch at your convenience before joining our guide for a walking tour of Cusco at 2:00 pm.

This afternoon we’ll head out on a 3- to 4-hour walking tour of Cusco’s historic streets visiting the Main Square and the Cathedral, which was built over the Inca palace of Suntur Wasi. Then it’s on to Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun which was of great significance for the Inca culture. From Qoricancha we visit one of the well known Cusco neighborhoods – San Blas, known as the artisan district.

Our afternoon tour will introduce the construction style of different periods: Inca – Qoricancha; Colonial – the Cathedral; modern – the pool and buildings around the main square.

We’ll enjoy a nice dinner in the San Blas neighborhood before returning to our hotel for the night.

Approximate hiking distance – 2 miles / 3 hours
Approximate peak altitude – 11,000 ft

Sonesta Hotel Cusco (D)

Please note: OARS can arrange extra nights of accommodation in Cusco and additional tours of the region. Contact your OARS Adventure Consultant for more details.

Day 2 / Monday: Chinchero to Urquillos

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll begin our journey out of Cusco, traveling by vehicle for about forty-five minutes to the small Andean town of Chinchero.  Chinchero is a village with a traditional Andean feel, with many homes still constructed of mud brick (adobe style) and locals going about their daily business in traditional dress.

Our visit starts at the main square, where a striking remnant of the town’s cultural history is the massive stone wall which has ten trapezoidal niches. The construction of the wall, and many other ruins and agricultural terraces (which are still in use), are attributed to Inca Tupac Yupanqui who possibly used Chinchero as a kind of country resort.  In the main plaza we’ll find an adobe colonial church dating from the early seventeenth century, which has been built upon the foundations of an Inca temple or palace. The ceiling and walls are covered in beautiful floral and religious designs.

After our visit in Chinchero, we will start our hike to Urquillos. Our walk takes us along the historic Inca trail that connects the two towns. This hike is scenic and peaceful, as few tourists walk this trail and we can typically expect to see only locals. After a short distance we find ourselves at an impressive example of Incan agricultural terracing, most of which are still in use today. We explore the archaeological site and the elaborate Inca terraces, and learn about how Chinchero was the main producer of potatoes during Incan times and still is today for the greater region.

Along our ancient Incan pathway, we will take a side trail to a waterfall where we will rest and have lunch. Continuing with the hike, we’re offered spectacular views of the Sacred Valley and of the snow covered mountain in the distance, called Pitusiray.  We will traverse the mountainside, passing the homes of local residents, before ending at the small village called Urquillos and our hotel.

Approximate hiking distance – 5.5 miles / 4 hours
Approximate peak altitude – 12,300 ft

Aranwa Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 3 / Tuesday: Moray and the Salt Mines of Maras

From the hotel we will head to Maras (~11,150 ft), a small Andean community perched above the valley. Here we will have a short visit around the town before departing on a 2 to 3-hour hike reaching the fascinating circled terraces of Moray. This site is not the ruins of a city or a fortress, it is an earthwork. The ancient people of the region took four enormous natural depressions in the landscape and sculpted them into many levels of agricultural terraces that served as an experimental agricultural station for the development of different strains of crops. This was possible due to the discovery of a fascinating phenomenon: the climates of many different ecological zones were present at a single site. In the approximate 100 ft of altitude between the bottom and top levels of Moray’s main depression, a full 60 degrees Fahrenheit difference in temperature has been recorded. Conceivably it was Moray itself that played the key role in the original transformation of maize into a high-altitude crop.

We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch on the plateau, with breathtaking views of the Vilcanota Mountain Range. After a short rest, we will continue our hike for ~2 1/2-hours until we reach the salt pools of Maras (~10,820 ft). The Maras salt works, or salt mines, are about 3000 small pools constructed on a slope of the Qaqawiñay mountain. During the dry season, people irrigate the pools every 3 days with the salty water emanating from a natural spring located above the complex.  When water evaporates, the salt contained in the water will slowly solidify. This process continues for about one month until a considerable volume of solid salt is obtained.
After visiting this fascinating site, we have the option to hike to the caves of Pichingoto or take our transport to the hotel.

Tonight you’re free to dine at the hotel restaurant or venture into the nearby town to explore other options.

Approximate hiking distance –  7.5 miles (includes Pichingoto) / 6 hours
Approximate peak altitude – 11,500 ft

Belmond Hotel Río Sagrado (B, L)

Day 4 / Wednesday: Urubamba to Yanahuara to Ollantaytambo -or- Perolniyoq Waterfall to Naupa Iglesia to Ollantaytambo:

Today we’re happy to offer you two great options to choose from.  Prior to today, your guide will discuss these options with you and determine which is of most interest to the group.

Urubamba to Yanahuara to Ollantaytambo:
Our trek takes us along the Vilcanota River, through Inca terraces and little known archaeological sites. Along the route we will get to see local people in their daily routines working on their farms.  The Sacred Valley is considered the food store of Cusco city, as the climate allows crops of such wide variety to be cultivated.

We will stop at the village of Yanahuara, considered to be the peach capital of the Sacred Valley.  Here we have a good opportunity to try a favorite local beverage – chicha (Andean corn beer). Continuing along our path, we will cross the river via the Paucarbamba Bridge.  From this side we will have spectacular views of Inca agricultural terraces, the snow capped mountain of Veronica and more Inca archaeological sites.

Before long we arrive to the Inca Bridge (foundations of the original Inca Bridge of the Sacred Valley) which connects Ollantaytambo with Cachiccata, the stone quarry during the Inca time from which granite boulders were brought across the river. Crossing this bridge we will arrive to Ollantaytambo, where we have time to take-in the sites of this bustling, historic town. This small town is the last of its kind, considered to be a living Inca town due to the working infrastructure, historic lived-in homes and practiced traditions dating back to their Inca ancestors.

Approximate hiking distance –  8.7 miles / 6 hours
Approximate peak altitude – 9350 ft

Perolniyoq Waterfall to Naupa Iglesia to Ollantaytambo:
We transfer by vehicle to Socma (~30 minutes).  It is from this Andean community where we begin our hike to the spectacular waterfall of Perolniyoc.  This waterfall is big, dropping almost 300 ft to where we stand at its base.  Here we enjoy this natural wonder, the pure air and maybe even take a swim for those feeling up to it.  The surrounding landscape and beautiful views make for great photos.  You’ll also be able to observe some common birds of the Sacred Valley, along with a great variety of flora species such as elderberry, queuña, chachacomo, and more.

Continuing our hike, we arrive to Ñaupa Iglesia (old church) which has been a place where people worship their ancestors, a place of connection, a place of astronomical events and of rituals for specific dates of the agricultural calendar.  Inside is a finely carved altar in the direction of the Milky Way and a portal, or dimensional gate. They say that these were projected into the sky at certain times of the year and used for making nocturnal observations. Beyond the nearby ridge lines, the ancestors determined the positions of stars and constellations known by the Incas, while the movement of the sun throughout the year marks significant dates in the sacred calendar of Tahuantinsuyo.  This was likely the site of great announcements of astronomical events associated with ritual fulfillment on specific dates of the agricultural calendar.

After visiting this mystical place, we will start our hike down to the Vilcanota River where we will enjoy lunch.  We then continue hiking along the Vilcanota River toward the Inca Bridge (foundations of the original Inca Bridge of the Sacred Valley) which connects Ollantaytambo with Cachiccata, the stone quarry during the Inca time from which granite boulders were brought across the river. Crossing this bridge we will arrive to Ollantaytambo, where we will have time to take-in the sites of this bustling, historic town. This small town is the last of its kind, considered to be a living Inca town due to the working infrastructure, historic lived-in homes and practiced traditions dating back to their Inca ancestors.

Approximate hiking distance –  7.5 miles / 6 hours
Approximate peak altitude – 9515 ft

Dinner is on your own and the options around the energetic town of Ollantaytambo won’t disappoint.

Pakaritampu Hotel (B, L)

Day 5 / Thursday: Pumamarca Terraces to Ollantaytambo

This morning we’ll drive to Pumamarca where we’ll begin our hike to the local Inca ruins.  At our destination, we’ll have time to explore the area and see terraces, water canals and the amazing architecture – all this with a beautiful view from high above the Sacred Valley. Pumamarca is home to a fortress on a steep slope, which was built to control the entrance to the Sacred Valley via the nearby jungle. The steep climb will be rewarded with a beautiful panorama and the knowledge that few tourists visit this special place.  We continue our hike to Ollantaytambo, which has us crossing Inca terraces and the wide-open, rolling spaces of the local agricultural fields until we arrive in town a couple hours later. Here we enjoy lunch at a restaurant in Ollantaytambo town.

After lunch, enjoy one of two options in & around town, or simply relax at the hotel – it’s up to you!

Ollantaytambo archaeological site (2 hours):
The archaeological site, or fortress, is located on the western side in the area known as Aracma Ayllu and is made up of a series of imposing terraces, temples, platforms, paths and walls.  The site offers excellent views of the surrounding countryside, the town of Ollantaytambo itself and the Incan storehouses, or Qollqa, built on Pinkuylluna Mountain opposite the site.

Walking Ollantaytambo town (1 hour to 2 hours):
Exploring the town is one of the nicest things to do in Ollantaytambo. The narrow, cobbled streets are full of charm and character and you’ll find both Inca-era buildings and modern buildings built over original Inca construction.
You will see remnants of the Inca’s work, such as the cascading water irrigation channels that flow down the side of the streets. Locals still use these channels as a source of water today. Maybe visit the market at the foot of the ruins, as it’s an excellent place to buy souvenirs and you’ll often see Peruvians dressed in traditional clothing going about their daily business.

Enjoy dinner at your choice of one of the many fine restaurants Ollantaytambo has to offer.

Approximate hiking distance – 3.8 miles / 4 hours (morning only)
Approximate peak altitude – 10,990 ft

Pakaritampu Hotel (B, L)

Day 6 / Friday: The Inca Trail (KM 104) to Wiñay Wayna and Machu Picchu Sanctuary

A short walk from our hotel brings us to the train station, where we board our Vistadome train car that will take us to the trailhead called KM 104, one of the access points to the famous Inca Trail. After checking our entrance tickets and passports with the Machu Picchu Park rangers, we will start our trek up to the well-preserved remains of Wiñay Wayna (~8800 ft), which will take us a couple hours.  On the way, we will see beautiful waterfalls, native flora and mountain birds. The site consists of upper and lower house complexes connected by a staircase and fountain structures. Above and below the houses, the Inca built agricultural terraces.  We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing on toward our final destination – Machu Picchu.

The trail clings to the steep hillside before turning up a steep, almost vertical incline of stone steps.  The ascent seems almost surreal, as our days of hiking can be felt in our muscles and the near vertical pitch has us reaching with our hands toward the stairs in front of us.  Upon reaching the top, we’re greeted by a sign that reads, Inti Punku, or as we know it in English, the Sun Gate.

From here your view of Machu Picchu sanctuary is excellent, as the Sun Gate provides an overlook of the entire landscape.  After taking it all in, we slowly descend through the intricate stone work of civilizations before us – of the Inca Empire and the many generations before.  We’ll make our way to the exit, where we’ll meet a shuttle bus that will take us to Aguas Calientes and our night’s accommodation.

Approximate hiking distance –  8 miles / 6 hours
Approximate peak altitude – 11,515 ft

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 7 / Saturday: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco

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.

*We do not include a ticket to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.  Per request, we can arrange one of those hikes for an extra cost.  Inquire with your OARS Adventure Consultant for details.

After our guided exploration of the sanctuary, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch.  You’re free to dine at the restaurant of your choice before we meet for the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private vehicle awaits to return us to Cusco and deliver you to your hotel.

(B)

Please note: accommodation this night and a return airport transfer are not included. OARS can arrange extra nights of accommodation in Cusco, an airport transfer, and additional tours of the region. Contact your OARS Adventure Consultant for more details.

Included in Your Trip Cost

• Skilled, professional guide service provided by our affiliate operator
• 6 nights lodging (based on double occupancy)
• Airport arrival transfer in Cusco on itinerary day 1
• All meals as outlined in the itinerary (B-breakfast; L-lunch; D-dinner)
• Bottled water throughout the trip, including with meals
• All activities and related equipment as outlined in the itinerary
• All entrance fees (archaeological sites, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu)
• Ground transportation as outlined in the itinerary
• Trekking poles
• 27-oz Klean Kanteen water bottle

Not Included in Your Trip Cost

• Flights to and from Cusco, Peru
• Accommodation in Cusco on day 7 (OARS can arrange per request)
• Departing airport transfer (OARS can arrange per request)
• Single supplement fee
• Ticket to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain on day 7 (OARS can arrange per request)
• Additional beverages at meals, such as soda and alcohol
• Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan or mandatory emergency medical & evacuation coverage
• Items of personal nature (see suggested packing list below)
• 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.

☐ 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

Visas are not required for U.S. citizens to enter Peru. For non-U.S. citizens please check with the consulate. When entering Peru you will be asked to fill out an embarkation card. This piece of paper is very important since it has to be given to the migratory authority when you leave the country. Do not lose it!

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

Trekking, Archaeological & Cultural Exploration

Our hikes in & around the Sacred Valley and along the Inca Trail bring us to one fascinating location after another, with ancient ruins spanning centuries of stone work, water ways, agriculture and pathways that have stood the test of time.  We’ll ascend and descend thousands of vertical feet, reach high ridge lines above the valley, and immerse ourselves in culture – all while enjoying the comforts of our lodges.  By the time we return to Cusco, we will have traveled by foot over thousands of Incan steps, carved out of stone and individually placed.  This trip is perfect for explorers who enjoy challenging hikes and are eager for sites and stories of the history and mystery surrounding ancient Peruvian civilizations.

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 foreign countries, 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, especially when traveling in remote locations.  A limited supply of bottled water will be provided, but at times you’ll need to buy additional 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 damage to smartphones and other electronic devices. If you intend to take your phone with you, consider investing in a protective 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 hotels 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 any 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 tour region has phone access and cellular coverage. 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 Nuevo 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 most 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 small bills in local currency for purchases.

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 prior to your departure.

Health and Medical Information

Although we do not require any immunizations to participate in the Machu Picchu Hiker trip, 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 and Machu Picchu—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

Hikers 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 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, lightweight and comfortable clothing is best.  Consider long sleeves and pants for sun and bug protection.  Quick-dry clothing is best, as it packs light and cleans easily.  You can add additional layers, such as merino wool or synthetic tops & bottoms depending on the weather.  Keep these extra layers handy in your day pack to adjust your layering as temperatures vary with elevation and weather.

Evening wear: After a long day on the trail, you may want to refresh and change into clean, comfortable clothing. Soft, loose-fitting shorts or pants, t-shirt, sweater,  etc… will allow you to settle-in for the evening.  You will want to have something dry and warm to put on.  Temperatures can be cold at night, depending on the time of year, so you may want to bring a warm jacket, hat and gloves.

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 day pack. 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 of warm, dry clothes for the evening.

Footwear

For the trail you’ll need a pair of sturdy, comfortable hiking boots or shoes with good tread, waterproof and possibly ankle support. If you plan to buy footwear for the trip, make sure you have time to break them in until they’re comfortable—if your feet hurt you won’t enjoy the trip. Taking off your trail shoes at the end of the day will feel good, so plan to have other footwear for evenings.  Find professional-grade options made by Chaco®, the official footwear sponsor of OARS guides.

Headwear

A wide-brimmed hat or ball cap are a good choice for sun protection.  A warm beanie for chilly nights and mornings is recommended.

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(s) or hydration bladder: durable and reusable
☐ Daypack with rain cover
☐ Sunglasses (preferably polarized such as Rheos floatable eyewear www.rheosgear.com) with securing strap (consider bringing a spare)
☐ 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 for flip flops)
☐ Hiking socks

Clothing:

☐ Long-sleeved shirt: 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
☐ Shade hat or visor with securing strap and a spare
☐ Rain jacket and pants
☐ Swimsuit / swim trunks
☐ 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 travel bag
☐ 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 during your trip, as its easier to load and unload into our vehicle . Attire is very casual–comfort, convenience and space take precedence over style. Bringing only what is necessary will save time packing and repacking. Extra baggage can be an unwanted burden for yourself and others.

We will return from Machu Picchu by train on Peru Rail.  Weight regulations for Peru Rail limit travelers to one carry-on bag 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 for the night we spend in Aguas Calientes.  You can take just what you need, leaving your travel luggage and the rest of your belongings with our vehicle.

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

Extra Luggage

If you have extra luggage it can likely be stored at your hotel in Cusco and retrieved upon return on day 6. Items not needed at Machu Picchu, where Peru Rail limits apply, can be left with the vehicle.

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. ATMs are available in Cusco city 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)
• Driver: $3 per person per day
• Airport and hotel bellboys: $2 for luggage
  

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.