Before You Go
Mystical Peru Lodge Trek
Overview
Trip Snapshot
We pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every trip is different depending upon the group, other trips on the water, and sometimes the weather. Please refer to your confirmation letter for the exact dates of your trip.
| MEETING PLACE: | Cusco, Peru |
| MEETING TIME: | 7 PM the evening before your trek (location will be provided before departure) |
| RETURN TIME: | Day 7, approximately 7-8 PM |
| TREKKING MILES: | 36 on the Salkantay Trail (plus 4 optional miles on day 2) |
| TRIP LENGTH: | 7 days/6 nights |
| ACTIVITIES: | Trekking, hiking, guided archaeological exploration |
Itinerary at a Glance
We highly recommend you spend two nights in Cusco prior to your trekking adventure in order to adjust to the altitude. This will also give you an opportunity to experience the many cultural and historical attractions Cusco and the surrounding areas have to offer. See some of our top recommendations.
The Day Before Your Trip
The evening before the trek, meet for a pre-trip briefing at 7 PM. Before you go, you will receive a letter confirming the time and place of the briefing, including a map with directions.
This is an opportunity to meet your lead guide and fellow travelers and ask any last-minute questions. Your trip leader will give you a thorough trip orientation and verify that everyone has the necessary gear and equipment.
Day 1
You’ll be picked up from your hotel at about 7 AM to begin the journey to the Salkantay Lodge.
We’ll first visit the Quillarumiyoc archaeological site and enjoy lunch at El Pedregal. Then, we’ll drive the winding mountain road to Challacancha to start our trek to the lodge.
Although we highly recommend participating in the hike as part of your continued altitude acclimatization, guests may opt out and continue by transport to Salkantay Lodge.
After a warm welcome by our friendly staff at Salkantay Lodge, there will be time to wash up and relax before the evening briefing, followed by aperitifs and dinner.
Important note: If your arrival into Cusco is delayed and you are unable to join your group for the transfer on day 1 to the first lodge, we can arrange a private transfer for you to join the group at an additional cost.
Days 2 – 6
Refer to the trip page for a more detailed sample itinerary, including several optional activities available at an additional cost.
Day 7
On the last day of the trip, our guide will lead us on a tour of Machu Picchu. Afterward, we return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then catch the train that takes us to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private vehicle takes us back to Cusco where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel. Our return time will be approximately 7–8 PM.
Accommodations this evening and a return airport transfer are not included. OARS can arrange extra nights of lodging in Cusco, an airport transfer, and additional tours of the region before and/or after your Machu Picchu hiking adventure. Contact your Adventure Consultant for more details.
Optional Machu Picchu Extension
If you opt to book the 1-day Machu Picchu extension, you will spend an additional night in Aguas Calientes (with dinner & breakfast). This add-on for an additional fee includes a round-trip shuttle to and from the sanctuary, an entrance ticket, and return transportation to Cusco. Does not include a guide for your return visit to the Sanctuary or a climbing permit for Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu. These can be arranged for an additional cost.
Included in Your Trip Cost
- Skilled, professional, bilingual guide service provided by our affiliate operator
- 6 nights lodge accommodation (based on double occupancy)
- All meals from lunch on day 1 through lunch on day 7, and snacks while hiking
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- All activities and related equipment as outlined in the itinerary
- Transportation of personal belongings on the trek by pack horses/mules and/or porters
- Ground transportation as listed in the itinerary
- Towels, shampoo, conditioner, and bath gel at each lodge
- Gratuities for service staff (lodge staff, mule drivers, and route chefs) valued at $50 (this does not include your lead trekking guide and assistant)
- 27-oz Klean Kanteen water bottle provided by OARS
- Duffel bag (loaned) to pack your belongings into for the trek (must be returned or incur a $50 fee)
Not Included in Your Trip Cost
- Flights to and from Cusco, Peru
- Cusco airport transfers
- Pre- and post-trip accommodation in Cusco
- Single supplement—50% supplement of the retail price. If you are willing to share a room but we are not able to pair you up with someone, you will be charged 25% of the retail price.
- Ticket to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
- Items of a personal nature (see suggested packing list below)
- Optional horseback riding
- Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan or mandatory emergency medical & evacuation coverage
- Medical immunizations (if necessary)
- Gratuities for the lead and assistant trekking guides
Getting Ready
Pre-Trip Checklist
☐ Purchase Travel Protection: 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 learn more about the plan we highly recommend and get a quote for this type of policy by entering a Trip Cost amount of $0.
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: Each participant will need to complete the required trip forms within two weeks of making a booking. Refer to your confirmation email 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. It is important to make reservations early as rooms may be limited during peak travel periods.
☐ Physical Requirements: Your outdoor adventure will be an active participatory trip. Please inform us of any physical limitations you may have as soon as possible. If you exceed 260 pounds, please give us a call. Make sure you are exercising frequently in the months leading up to your trip and can meet our Essential Eligibility Criteria.
☐ 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.
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 during the day; alcohol is allowed in moderation at the lodges.
8. Minimize your impact on the environment.
9. Your children are your responsibility!
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 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 you must often 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!
Travel Arrangements
You’ll need to arrange a flight arriving at Cusco Airport (CUZ), via Lima (LIM), at least one day prior to the start date of your trek. However, we highly recommend you consider arriving in Cusco two days ahead of the trip’s start in order to adjust to the altitude.
GETTING TO CUSCO
Direct flights to Lima from the United States are provided by American Airlines from Dallas and Miami; Delta from Atlanta; LAN/LATAM from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas, New York (JFK) and Miami; Spirit and JetBlue from Fort Lauderdale; and United Airlines from Houston. More options may be available.
Plan for at least 3 hours between flights in Lima to catch your flight to Cusco. In Lima, you will need to go through immigration control, collect your luggage and pass through customs, exit the international terminal, and go to the domestic terminal where you will have to check in for your domestic flight.
Many flights from North America arrive in Lima in the evening and connecting flights to Cusco start the following morning. Spending the night in Lima may allow for a more enjoyable trip, giving you a chance to rest up at a nearby hotel like the Wyndham Costa del Sol—the only hotel adjacent to the airport. There is also a Holiday Inn a short distance from the airport.
Let us know if you’d like assistance with arranging your international flight logistics. Our partners at Exito Travel specialize in international destinations and we’d be happy to obtain a quote from them on your behalf.
Please do not purchase airfare until your departure has been confirmed by the minimum number of required guests.
PRE- AND POST-TRIP ACCOMMODATIONS
Pre- and post-trip lodging is not included in the trip cost. We recommend that you make reservations well in advance in order to guarantee lodging. Please let us know if you would like assistance with arranging pre- or post-trip lodging.
Useful Information
Time ZoneS
Peru is located in the same international time zone as the U.S. east coast. During Daylight Savings Time in the U.S., Peru is on Central Time.
Money Matters
The official currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol (S/). Money can be exchanged at the airport in Lima or Cusco, at Money Exchange Offices known as “Casas de Cambio” or at banks. The U.S. dollar is accepted in most commercial shops at the daily rate of exchange. ATMs are available in Cusco and Lima and many offer the choice of U.S. or Peruvian currency.
At check-in at the Salkantay Lodge, you will be asked to open a voucher on your credit card for potential extras purchased during the trek, such as alcoholic beverages, massage, souvenirs, and other items of personal nature. At the Lucma Lodge (last day of the trek), you will need to settle your bill by charging the credit card previously presented, or by paying in cash. If paying in cash, please note that only U.S. notes of $5, $10, $20, and $50 value are accepted; U.S. notes of $1, $100, or coins are not accepted. Peruvian currency is accepted. If paying with a credit card, you will not be able to present a new credit card when settling the bill.
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. Small bills are helpful. Check with your credit card provider regarding surcharges for international purchases prior to your departure and be sure to inform them of your travels.
Health & Medical Info
Although we do not require any immunizations to participate in the Mystical Peru Adventure, 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 involves being active at high altitudes between 6,600 and 15,000 feet. While the itinerary is designed for adequate altitude conditioning in the early part of the journey, there are no guarantees that your body will acclimatize properly. It is a good idea to come prepared with proper elevation sickness medicine, which can be prescribed by your local doctor before your trip.
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.
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.
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 the 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/WATER
Drinking Water
We recommend you drink only bottled or previously boiled water, and that you bring a refillable water bottle or hydration pack. An ample supply of the highest-quality filtered water is available at multiple water stations at the lodges and during the trek to fill your container.
Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages are not included in the cost of your Peruvian adventure but are available at the lodges.
THE PRIVY
On the trail, bathroom facilities are limited and, therefore, you’ll often find a private location along the trail to use. Toilet paper and disposable bags are carried along on the trek. On day 3 of trekking, the longest day crossing the pass, a toilet tent is set up at lunchtime. On days 4, 5, and 6, a toilet is available at our lunch venue.
LAUNDRY
Laundry service along the trail is available at each lodge. The price is based on the weight of the items being washed and is approximately US$20 for 2 kg laundry bag (subject to change).
ELECTRICITY
The lodges and hotel during the trek have an electrical current of 220 volts. If you have electrical devices that work with 110 volts, you should bring your own converter as there is a limited supply at the lodges. The electricity is turned off at the lodges from 11 PM to 6 AM.
At the lodges, electrical wall outlets are similar to ungrounded sockets here in the United States, with two vertical, flat-blade plug receptacles (without the round ground). For electrical devices that have a ground prong, you will need an adaptor to plug into the receptacles.
Outlets in Peru 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.
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 to your fellow guests. We ask that you please be mindful of the impacts on others and respect the cultural 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.
Communication
During your trekking adventure, there is limited communication with the “outside world.” There is internet available at each lodge; however, due to the nature of the radio signal service, a connection may not always be available and therefore it’s best not to plan on having internet access.
Each lodge has a satellite phone which our guests can use in case of an emergency. These phones require phone cards that can be purchased at the lodges.
Weather
We recommend you check one week prior to your trip for an up-to-date weather forecast for Cusco, Peru.
Average High/Low Temperature & Rainfall for Cusco
| Day/Night (°F) | Rainfall | Day/Night (°F) | Rainfall | ||
| January | 68/46 | 6.1″ | July | 68/34 | 0.3″ |
| February | 68/46 | 4.7″ | August | 69/37 | 0.4″ |
| March | 68/46 | 4.4″ | September | 71/41 | 0.5″ |
| April | 69/43 | 1.6″ | October | 71/44 | 1.8″ |
| May | 70/38 | 0.3″ | November | 71/45 | 3.0″ |
| June | 69/35 | 0.7″ | December | 70/46 | 4.5″ |
Average High/Low Temperature & Rainfall for Aguas Calientes
| Day/Night (°F) | Rainfall | Day/Night (°F) | Rainfall | ||
| January | 65/42 | 5.9″ | July | 66/32 | 2.0″ |
| February | 65/42 | 7.6″ | August | 66/34 | 2.5″ |
| March | 66/42 | 6.6″ | September | 68/39 | 3.5″ |
| April | 66/41 | 6.1″ | October | 68/41 | 4.7″ |
| May | 66/36 | 3.2″ | November | 68/42 | 6.1″ |
| June | 66/32 | 3.1″ | December | 68/42 | 6.2″ |
Packing for Your Trip
We want you to be prepared and comfortable for your trip. Below you’ll find some general tips for how to dress and what to pack and a comprehensive packing checklist. 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 synthetics or merino wool. Warmth and comfort are the main objectives of 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
Trekking wear—Start with sunscreen, pants or shorts (convertible pants are great), and a long-sleeved shirt, and then add additional thermal base layers depending on the time of year. Keep a rain jacket and pants handy at all times. As the day warms up, layers can be taken off and stored in your daypack, but you should come prepared as weather conditions can be extremely varied.
Evening wear—After a long day on the 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. You will want to have something warm such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and fleece. For the lodge and town, casual travel wear is appropriate.
Footwear
You’ll need a pair of comfortable, sturdy hiking boots 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. In the evening you’ll want a pair of comfortable shoes for the lodge, or slippers. Find professional-grade options made by Chaco®, the official footwear sponsor of OARS guides.
Headwear
A wide-brimmed hat or ball cap is a good choice for sun protection. A warm beanie for chilly nights and mornings is recommended.
Rain Gear
We recommend a jacket and pants that are 100% waterproof and breathable, not just water resistant. A hooded jacket is recommended, as well as good secure closures around your head, neck, wrists, and ankles. Many folks like having a poncho, as well, as a poncho provides coverage for a daypack.
Sun Protection
This trip takes place at very high elevations and 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. Lightweight long pants may also be appropriate to protect your legs. A hat, sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses are also a must.
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.
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.
Packing List
Equipment and Personal Items
☐ Daypack with raincover: large enough to carry water, snacks, camera, extra layers & rain gear
☐ Water bottle (refillable & reusable) or a hydration bag/pack (OARS will send you a water bottle)
☐ Polarized sunglasses with securing strap (consider bringing a spare)
☐ Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, and bath gel are provided at each lodge)
☐ Sunscreen and lip protection: SPF 30 or higher (aerosol sprays not recommended)
☐ 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
☐ Headlamp or small flashlight (although there are night lights in the rooms)
☐ Cash for gratuities (not included in the trip price for your lead and assistant trekking guides)
Footwear
☐ Broken-in hiking boots (waterproof/breathable is ideal)
☐ Comfortable shoes for around the lodges (sandals or flip-flops may be desirable)
☐ Hiking socks (at least one pair for each day of trekking)
Clothing
☐ Long-sleeved shirt: lightweight and light color for sun protection (old dress shirts work well)
☐ Long-sleeved fleece or similar warm layer
☐ T-shirts (some cotton, some synthetic or merino wool)
☐ Pants: lightweight and light color for sun protection
☐ Shorts for hiking (consider convertible pants)
☐ Casual mountain wear for evenings
☐ Rain jacket & pants or poncho: waterproof
☐ Cold-weather jacket–fleece or insulated
☐ Swimwear: tankinis and board shorts are a great option
☐ Underwear, including one set of base-layer thermals (synthetic or merino wool)
☐ Warm hat and gloves
☐ Sun hat or visor (and a spare)
Optional Items
☐ Camera and accessories
☐ Hydration pack
☐ Binoculars (lightweight and small)
☐ Collapsible trekking poles with rubber tips to protect ruin sites (check with your airline about travel restrictions)
☐ Sarong: useful for sun protection, evaporative cooling, changing clothes, etc.
☐ Small bags: stuff sacs, zip locks, or similar for organizing items in your duffel bag
☐ Sketchbook, notebook and pen, paperback book
☐ Bandana
☐ Ankle gaiters (to keep dirt & mud out of your shoes)
Packing Your Gear
Pack your gear in a strong, soft duffel bag. No hard suitcases or wheeled bags, please, as luggage is mainly transported by mules and/or porters along the trail. If you do not have an appropriate-sized duffel bag, we can provide a duffel bag on loan at the pre-trek briefing (the night before departing from Cusco). Please return it to your trip leader after the trek (a $50 fee is incurred for not returning a duffel). The duffels are 27” x 15” x 15″, a perfect size for this 7-day trek.
We kindly ask that you restrict the weight of your duffel bag that is carried by mules and/or porters to a total of 10 kg (22 lb). You will then carry a daypack with the items that you need during the day (ie. rain gear, extra layers, water bottle, hat).
Peru Rail/Inca Rail, which operates the train between Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo, has luggage weight and size limits, which is why we recommend using the duffel bags we provide. The official weight limit is ONE item weighing less than 8 kg (17.6 lb) total per person to take on the train to Machu Picchu. On Day 6, you can consolidate the items that you want to take to Machu Picchu for the one night (two nights if you book the optional night) into one bag, and any extra items can be packed into another bag that is transported back to Cusco to your hotel where you will return after Machu Picchu. Your guide will give more direction and advice on the arrangements.
If you decide to carry your own duffel bag weighing in excess of the 8 kg rule, it will likely be sent by Peru Rail in the luggage car. Luggage cars have different schedules from passenger cars, and it is not certain your bag will arrive in Ollantaytambo at the same time as you will. This is the reason why we recommend clients to keep their luggage with them at all times and adhere to the weight limit.
We provide a limited number of hair dryers at each lodge, due to limited energy supply and environmental concerns. Shampoo, conditioner, and bath gel are provided at each lodge. Bathrooms are equipped with drying lines.
Extra Luggage
Any additional clothing and luggage that you will not need on the trek can be stored at your hotel in Cusco.
Valuables
We recommend that you leave your valuables at home. Purses and city clothes can be left at your hotel in Cusco. Carry your passport with you. On the trek, you can store your wallet and other personal papers safely in your duffel and your room.
HELPFUL LINKS
- Find all the gear you need for your trip online at REI
- For branded OARS hats, t-shirts, and more, visit the Merch Shack
- Recommended Reading: The Best Machu Picchu Books to Read Before You Go
Reminders
GRATUITIES
Tipping is optional but appreciated by the guides. You will have one Lead Guide and one Assistant Guide on your trek. As a general reference, we recommend US$10-20 per day, per guest for the Lead Guide and US$5-15 per day, per guest for the Assistant Guide. Should you choose to tip, it can be given directly to your guides. If you intend to tip the Assistant Guide, it may be given at breakfast before departure from the Lucma Lodge on day 6, as the Assistant Guide will not continue with you to Machu Picchu. If you intend to tip, plan ahead and have cash – either US Dollars or Peruvian Sol.
Private transfer drivers should be tipped US$5 total per service.
The price of your trip includes gratuities for all service staff—lodge staff, mule drivers, and route chefs.
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 to delete the donation from your balance.
Terms & Conditions
Reservations and Deposits
An $800/person deposit is required at the time of booking with final payment due 90 days before departure. Accounts on which final payment has not been received 80 days before the departure date will be canceled.
Payments can be made by check, money order, eCheck, wire transfer, Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover. 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. Your payment is fully refundable for 7 days, less a 3% processing fee, after making a reservation when you reserve a trip 7 days or more prior to the final payment due date.
Cancellations and Refunds
Canceling 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. If you must cancel your reservation after the rescission period described above, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the schedule below.
| DATE OF CANCELLATION | CANCELLATION FEE |
| 90 or more days before your trip | Deposit |
| 89 – 60 days before your trip | 50% of the trip cost |
| 59 days or less before your trip | Full fare |
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. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to consider purchasing a travel protection plan.
Canceled Trips
OARS International and the outfitter Mountain Lodges of Peru reserve the right to cancel any trip due to insufficient registration or other factors that make the trip impractical to operate. In such instances, we will inform you at least 30 days prior to departure. Do not make non-refundable travel arrangements until you have verified with OARS that your trip is confirmed.
If a trip must be canceled 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 the initial deposit amount and any non-refundable payments made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers. OARS will make good faith efforts to recover deposits made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers; however, we cannot guarantee recovery of any or all of the advance payments made. OARS is not responsible for expenses incurred by participants in preparation for a canceled trip.
Medical
Under most circumstances, if you are of an adventurous spirit and in reasonably good health, you should have no problem enjoying an OARS International 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. Learn more about the plan we recommend.
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.
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’s cancellation policy, there will be no refund of the trip fees at that time.
Responsibility – An Important Notice
O.A.R.S. International, Inc., Mountain Lodges of Peru, 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 they have no control. Reasonable changes in the 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. We are experienced in 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.
Mountain Lodges of Peru
Mountain Lodges of Peru, a travel partner of OARS International, is the operator of this trip. At the trip briefing, your guide will meet you and escort you throughout the program. These staff members are the very best and will strive to ensure your complete satisfaction.