Peru & Bolivia Encounter

Trip Code: GGKOC

Why we love it

Stroll along jungle trails in the Amazon rainforest and look for monkeys, parrots, otters and caima along the way., Get to know the locals of a local community in the Sacred Valley, learn from them, and discover their ancestral textile techniques., Test yourself on the Classic Inca or Inca Quarry trails or take the train to Machu Picchu. Then, explore the citadel on a guided tour through its temples, palaces and living quarters., Explore colourful lakes, volcanoes and arid landscapes throughout the Siloli Desert. Pass the Ollague Volcano, visit the Iglesia San Cristobal Lipez church and stop at Hedionda and Canapa Lagoons – often home to a vibrant group of flamingos!, Drive across the driest place on Earth – the Atacama Desert. Along the way, explore the Sol de Manana Geysers, relax in the Polques Hot Springs and watch the sunset over Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon).

Is this trip right for me?

This trip visits places at high altitude above 2800 m, and some people can suffer from altitude sickness, regardless of age or physical health. Please see the Medical and Health Information section of the Essential Trip Information for more details., The Amazon Jungle can be very hot and humid, so it's important to drink plenty of water and wear light cotton clothing. Make sure you also bring tropical-strength insect repellent., You'll spend a lot of time in a 4WD which is likely to have all seats occupied while crossing some bumpy surfaces. This is the best way to see the sights in and around Uyuni and is all part of the adventure., In Bolivia (especially in Uyuni), things don't always go to plan. An attraction may be closed for the day without notice or reason. Although this doesn't happen very often, please be prepared for the possibility., Making your way across the Andean Desert and salt flats isn’t exactly luxurious. Temperatures in the area can be very cold, especially at night, so bring warm clothes. This is all part of the adventure. Without a doubt, this amazing experience will be one of the highlights of your trip., Visitors are not permitted to explore Machu Picchu without a Machu Picchu guide (not our trip leaders) and must follow set routes within the site. This trip includes one guided visit of Machu Picchu (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours). Your leader will provide more information to ensure you get the most out of your visit to this incredible site., If you choose to trek the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail, you can expect strenuous hiking and will be camping with basic facilities during the hiking portion of the itinerary. This option is recommended for those with a good level of fitness. See the ‘Packing’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details on specific clothing and equipment requirements.

Important information

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
3. Full passport details are required at the time of booking. These details must match the passport you will travel on. Mismatched details can lead to refusal of entry by the Inca authorities. Delays in providing this information may result in booking fees or changes to your itinerary.
4. Inca Trail permits are not guaranteed and must be requested. Once you have paid your deposit and provided your full passport details we will endeavour to secure a permit for you. If Inca Trail permits are unavailable, you can choose to hike the Inca Quarry Trail or take the train.
5. The Inca Trail closes in February to allow for cleaning and restoration work. If the trekking portion of your trip starts in February, you will be automatically booked to hike the Inca Quarry Trail.
6. We will request an Inca Trail permit for you unless, at time of booking, you advise us that you wish to hike the Quarry Trail or take the train. Fees may apply to changes made after the time of booking, and availability on other options cannot be guaranteed.
7. According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations all visitors must follow a pre-determined circuit within the site as a way to relieve crowding. The circuit-based entrance tickets are available on a first come first serve basis. For travellers who opted for the Quarry Trail and Train options we will endeavour to get everyone traveling in a group on the same circuit. Regardless of the circuit you will enjoy the beauty and grandeur of the site. Travellers completing the Inca Trail will enter Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate.
8.As you can choose different ways of reaching Machu Picchu (Inca Trail, Quarry Trail or Train), you may be joined by other Intrepid and/or non-Intrepid travellers. There is also a small chance you may be the only traveller from your group on your selected option.

What to bring/pack

Most travellers prefer to take a small to medium wheeled suitcase, which is a great size for the packing capacity in our private vehicles. Whatever you take, be mindful that you will need to be able to carry your own luggage, handle it at airports, take it in/out of accommodation and perhaps even walk short distances. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible.

If your trip includes travelling on overnight trains or primarily using public transport, the smaller your luggage, the easier it will be to store under or above bunks. Large suitcases may not be able to be taken on board. A lockable bag or small padlock for your bag will be useful, especially when travelling on public transportation as well.

When you're exploring during the day, you'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, a camera, a jacket and activity-specific items like a swimsuit, a waterproof pouch/bag for your phone, or hiking shoes.

Below we have listed the essentials for this trip:, https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list, WATER BOTTLE
Please bring your own water bottle to refill. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. When unable to avoid bottled water, it is better to buy the largest available and distribute it into your smaller bottle for the day. Some travellers like to bring a bottle with its own filtration system or water purification tablets. If you are walking or trekking as part of your trip, you will need to carry at least 2 litres of water with you., PERU TREKKING
Tents and sleeping mats are provided for the duration of your Peru trek.
At the pre-trek briefing you will be given a small duffle bag to pack your clothes for the trek, please note there is a 5kg limit, this includes your sleeping bag.

In addition to the general packing list above, please ensure you bring these items if you are trekking in Peru.

Passport:
You MUST take your passport, a photocopy is not sufficient. It's important the passport matches the details your provided us when booking this trip (Keep it in a plastic bag in case of rain)

Sleeping bag:  
You will need a good warm sleeping bag for the trek. Sleeping bags can be hired for US20-25, please let your Tour Leader know at the trek briefing. A four season (or -10) bag is recommended especially for the winter months. At other times you will probably be fine in a 3 season (or -5) bag although this depends on how much you feel the cold and is given as a guideline only.

Silk sleeping bag liner:
This can give your sleeping bag added warmth.

Pillow
Pillows are not provided on the trek and it's your personal preference if you wish to bring one along. If you decide to bring a pillow then we do suggest packing a travel friendly option, something that can be easily packed into your small duffle bag.

Trek Poles:
Trek poles are not required, it's a personal preference. We recommend hiring these at the pre-trek briefing for approximately US$10 per pole as it will save you carting them around for the remainder of your travels.

Day Pack:
A day bag that has easy access to water bottles (external side pockets) or a day pack with a built in hydration bladder. This bag only needs to be large enough to hold the few things you need during the day (hat, water, camera, snacks, rain jacket etc)

Reusable Water bottle:
You should be carrying at least 2 litres of water daily, while trekking. Depending on whether you have a hydration bladder in your bag or not we recommend bringing two (1 litre) bottles that can be refilled on the trail with boiled water, which will be supplied daily.

Waterproof, well worn-in walking boots: 
Good quality, comfortable footwear is essential. Whatever you wear on your feet the most important thing is comfort. It is vital to ensure your boots are well worn in and lightweight. Ankle support and waterproofing is recommended but if you already have something comfortable with good grip on rocks then don’t go rushing out to buy new boots – you are better off with your well-worn in pair!

Walking clothing in layers:
(E.g. zip off trousers, fleece, T-shirts). It’s a personal choice as to how many items you bring however please remember there’s a 5kg limit. We recommend the following;

• 2 Pairs of long Walking Trousers (Zip off are a very hand
  choice but not a necessity)
• 2 T-shirts
• 1 Pair of shorts
• Rain Jacket or Poncho (A reusable Poncho will be provided for the Inca and Quarry Trail)
• 4-5 Pairs of Thick socks

Warm clothing for night time:
Fleece, long pants, woollen hat, gloves.

Thermal underwear:
Thermal wear is highly recommended, being light, warm and will keep you warm at night.

Sunscreen, sunglasses and sunhat

Personal medication and basic first aid kit: 
Band-Aids, Imodium, Panadol, rehydration sachets.

Camera and spare batteries, memory cards or film: 
Please note: there are no electrical outlets on the trek so make sure you fully charge and or have spare batteries.

Snacks:
Chocolates, chips, biscuits, energy bars. Snacks are provided during the trek but you may like to bring one or two extras just in case. If you have a dietary requirement then be recommend bringing some suitable snacks from home. We will accommodate you for Breakfast, lunch and dinner however for snacks it’s recommended to bring some just to be safe.

Head torch or Standard Torch (flash-light)
(Very Important) and spare batteries.

Tropical strength insect repellent.

Antiseptic hand gel.

Flip-flops / thongs / jandals: 
If you wish to have a shower on the third night and to wear around camp after a long day of trekking.

Ear Plugs:
In case your tent ‘roomie’ is a snorer.

Dry Bag/Plastic bags: 
To keep your belongings and clothes dry.

Toilet paper: 
Most important! Also small plastic bags or zip lock bags for rubbish which can then be thrown in the main rubbish bag provided by the porters. Please don’t dispose of your toilet paper on the ground!

Wet wipes and or Face wipes:
These are an essential and will come in handy after a long day of trekking and no showers.

Small towel and basic personal toiletries:
On the third night of both the Inca Trail and the Inca Quarry there is an opportunity to have a shower so bring travel size shampoo and shower gel if you would like., AMAZON JUNGLE PACKING LIST

- Long, light-coloured, tight-weave cotton shirts and pants
- Comfortable shoes or sandals for wearing on boardwalks or around the lodge
- Long, thick socks to wear with the rubber boots provided by the lodge
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Tropical strength insect repellant
- Small-denomination bills for incidental purchases (eg drinks)
- Head torch or flashlight (optional, smartphone torch sufficient)
- Binoculars (optional)

Physical rating

4

The physical rating on this trip is based on you selecting to trek either the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail. Should you wish to take the train option instead of trekking, you can consider the physical level a 2-3.

On Day 2 of the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail you will be walking uphill from 3000 to 4500 metres above sea level before descending steeply through big steps and difficult terrain. While this demanding walk is the main challenge our passengers face on this trip, it's also one of the highlights and worth every minute of it. You can find out more about the trekking options here:
https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/inca-trail-vs-quarry-trail/

We recommend that you undertake regular aerobic exercise in the months before you travel, particularly if you are not in the habit of regular exercise. Doing mountain walks or climbing long staircases with a pack is good preparation. Walking, jogging, swimming or riding a bike are all good ways to increase your aerobic fitness, which will allow you to enjoy the trekking to its fullest. More information can be found here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/trekking-training-guide-tips/

Joining your group

Los Girasoles Hotel, Av. Diez Canseco 696, Miraflores, Lima, L18, PERU, Phone: 511 4466075

Located in the heart of Miraflores, one of the most traditional quarters of Lima. This modern styled hotel has 42 comfortable, carpeted rooms with private bathroom, hot shower, cable TV and minibar. The hotel has it's very own restaurant and bar, laundry services, currency exchange, luggage storage and permanent security.

Alternate Joining Point


Joining instructions

A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.

For your confirmed arrival transfer, International arrivals you’ll be met in the Arrivals Hall outside gate 3 on the first floor by a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign. Please ask them who they’re picking up to confirm you’ve met the correct transfer representative.
For your confirmed arrival transfer, Domestic arrivals you’ll be met in the Arrivals Hall outside gate 1 on the first floor by a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign. Please ask them who they’re picking up to confirm you’ve met the correct transfer representative.
Depending on traffic, the journey to your hotel will take between 30 and 90 minutes.

In case of flight cancellations, changes, or unforeseen delays, please contact our local office on the number in the ‘Problems and emergency contact information’ section. Free wifi is available at the airport. Alternatively, please go to the information booth located on first floor, between the domestic and international arrivals gates, inside the terminal in front of the escalators. If required, they can make a phone call for you. This is also where our transfer representatives will go if they don’t meet you as you exit customs.

Finishing your trip

La Casa De Don Tomas, Tocopilla Street s/n, San Pedro de Atacama, CHILE, Phone: +56 9 7989 3734

Alternate Finish Point


Meals & dietary information

Breakfasts included: 20

Lunches included: 10

Dinners included: 6

While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in this region. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule, our groups tend to eat dinner together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There's no obligation to do this though.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
Please let us know your diet requirements before your trip starts.
Generally speaking, in bigger cities/towns vegetarians can expect a reasonable range of vegetarian venues and/or vegetarian options within tourist restaurant menus. However, vegetarianism is not the norm in this part of the world so options can be limited when eating at homestays, small local restaurants, street stalls, markets, etc.

More restrictive diet requirements (vegans, coeliac, gluten intolerance, fructose intolerance, lactose intolerance, etc.) can also be accommodated along this trip but you should expect a lesser variety than what you can expect at home. We recommend that, if possible, to bring your own supply of snacks with you.

For those on strict Kosher or Halal diets, we understand your dietary requirements are important, however, sometimes due to cultural and language differences these are not always easy to convey when you are travelling. Your guide will do their best to assist you in translating your needs when eating out, but please be aware that these diets are almost unheard of in much of the continent and the best they may be able to accommodate is no pork and shellfish. If this will be a concern for you you may need to consider opting for vegetarian or vegan meals for the included meals in your itinerary. We recommend researching kosher or halal options in your destination country prior to travel to see if you are able to buy snacks once there, otherwise consider bringing some from home. 

Climate & seasonal information

In case of emergency

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.

We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager.

You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time., For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us, In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below:

, Available for phone call or WhatsApp call on +51 996 055559 Lima, +51 940 512701 Cusco

Accommodations

Transportation