A perfect combination of nature and culture! This tour adds an Amazon jungle visit to the already popular Inca Empire tour. Explore the pre-Incan ruins of Tiahuanaco and follow in the footsteps of the Incas on the trail to Machu Picchu before heading to the Amazon for wildlife spotting in the Tambopata Forest Reserve. Highlands & Amazon Adventure Original 2008 GAP 6 15 Max 15, Avg 10 South America Peru, Bolivia, Amazon, Machu Picchu, Inca Trail Culture/History, Trekking/Hiking, Wildlife/Nature 15 4 3 http://www.gapadventures.com/images/banners/peru/peru_machupicchu_2.jpg Arrive in La Paz at any time. Spend most of the day visiting the fantastic ruins of Tiahuanaco. The mysterious Tiahuanaco people constructed this great ceremonial centre on the southern shore of Lake Titicaca over 1000 years ago. Enjoy spectacular views of the Altiplano countryside on this travel day from La Paz, through the mountains, around Lake Titicaca and on to Puno. We embark on a boat trip to visit the Uros people and Taquile Island. Travel from Puno to Cuzco through the high Altiplano region. The friendly, colonial atmosphere of Cuzco offers nearby Inca ruins, cobblestone streets, museums, markets and churches. Journey through the Sacred Valley with our local guide to Pisac and onwards to the picturesque town and Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo. A morning trip to km 82 begins a once in a lifetime journey on the ancient trail of the Incas. Local porters and guides ensure that the trip is worry-free. Fascinating ruins and spectacular mountain scenery fill every day of the hike. On the final day, climb the steps to Intipunku, the 'Sun Gate', to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. Return to Cuzco on Day 10. Relax and explore the sights and sounds of Cuzco. Rafting, horseback riding and mountain biking are all possible options. Fly from high in the Andes to Puerto Maldonado, deep in the lowlands of the Amazon jungle. Travel by motorized canoe followed by a one-hour hike and a canoe trip across the lake (paddled by lodge staff) to our lodge in the Tambopata Rainforest Area. This area holds the world record for the most bird sightings in one area. Explore the jungle with local guides before flying to Lima for a final night out. Arrive in La Paz at any time. Spend most of the day visiting the fantastic ruins of Tiahuanaco. The mysterious Tiahuanaco people constructed this great ceremonial centre on the southern shore of Lake Titicaca over 1000 years ago. Enjoy spectacular views of the Altiplano countryside on this travel day from La Paz, through the mountains, around Lake Titicaca and on to Puno. We embark on a boat trip to visit the Uros people and Taquile Island. Travel from Puno to Cuzco through the high Altiplano region. The friendly, colonial atmosphere of Cuzco offers nearby Inca ruins, cobblestone streets, museums, markets and churches. Journey through the Sacred Valley with our local guide to Pisac and onwards to the picturesque town and Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo. A morning trip to km 82 begins a once in a lifetime journey on the ancient trail of the Incas. Local porters and guides ensure that the trip is worry-free. Fascinating ruins and spectacular mountain scenery fill every day of the hike. On the final day, climb the steps to Intipunku, the 'Sun Gate', to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. Return to Cuzco on Day 10. Relax and explore the sights and sounds of Cuzco. Rafting, horseback riding and mountain biking are all possible options. Fly from high in the Andes to Puerto Maldonado, deep in the lowlands of the Amazon jungle. Travel by motorized canoe followed by a one-hour hike and a canoe trip across the lake (paddled by lodge staff) to our lodge in the Tambopata Rainforest Area. This area holds the world record for the most bird sightings in one area. Explore the jungle with local guides before flying to Lima for a final night out. 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD 1905 1625 1140 845 2275 1625 1315 Local Payment 250 USD Accommodation Simple hotels (9 nts), camping (3 nts), jungle lodge (2 nts). Associated RT Project Optional visit to Planeterra community projects Brief Highlights La Paz, Lake Titicaca, Cuzco, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Amazon Jungle. Brochure Notes 1. Last minute bookings of this trip and all trips that include the Inca Trail will be on an "on request" basis only. To make a booking request for a tour which includes the Inca Trail, G.A.P Adventures requires your full name, date of birth, nationality and passport number.
2. Please advise at time of booking if you do not wish to hike the Inca Trail. Instead you will have 2 nights in Cuzco, travel by train for a night in Aguas Calientes, and join the hikers for the tour of Machu Picchu. Combination This trip is a component of our Southern Cross tour, see code SJBM. Departure Departs twice per month DepEnd Sun-Sun Group Leader G.A.P Adventures leader throughout, local guides while on Lake Titicaca, in the Sacred Valley, on the Inca Trail and in the jungle. Group Size Max 15, Avg 10 Included Highlights Entrance and guided tour of Tiahuanaco archaeological site, Guided tour of Taquile and Uros Islands on Lake Titicaca, Guided tour of Sacred Valley, 4-day Inca Trail hike with local guide, cook and porters, Guided tour of Machu Picchu, 2-night Tambopata Amazon Excursion Local Payment USD250 Max Pax 15 Meal Budget Allow USD200 for meals not included. For additional expenses, see dossier. Meals Included All meals while in the jungle and on the Inca Trail. Min Pax 6 Recommendation Like this trip, but want to skip the Amazon? Try Inca Empire - see code BILM. Reverse Itinerary This trip also runs in reverse - see trip code PHML. StartFinish La Paz to Lima Testimonial "The trip was amazing - the highlight being Machu Pichu after that grueling hike. The $1 US cusqueza was worth every penny." - Wayne Henshall travelled on Highlands & Amazon Adventure Transport Public bus, local flight, train, boat, canoe. A Couple of Rules Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for G.A.P Adventures Adventure travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or they use prostitutes.
Arrival Complications We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Associated Planeterra Project On this tour you may have the opportunity to visit the following Planeterra projects:

HOUSE OF THE PEOPLE OF THE SUN
Inti Runakunaq Wasin (IRW) is Quechua for “House of the People of the Sun”. It is a non-profit organization based in Cuzco that acts as a haven for children and adolescents who live in extreme poverty. The home is open during the day and is run by a staff of volunteer teachers and social workers. Children are given the opportunity to voluntarily drop-in to receive help with homework, a warm meal and participate in a variety of classes and workshops that teach them valuable skills including jewelry making, leather working, cooking, music and English.

IRW currently rents a house and supports 50 children through their programs. However, there are still many more children working and living on the streets of Cuzco. The goal of Planeterra together with IRW is to purchase this home in order to provide long-term support to more children and families.

It is possible to visit this project on most tours that pass through Cuzco. To arrange a visit please speak to your G.A.P Adventures tour leader.

How You Can Help
All donations to this project are being matched by G.A.P Adventures with the goal of raising $100,000 USD, which will be used to purchase the home they are currently renting. With your support we can make this dream a reality.


WOMEN'S WEAVING PROJECT – Ccaccaccollo Community
In January and March 2005, G.A.P Adventures developed and offered training courses to 123 people from four local communities just outside of Cuzco to work as Porters and Cooks on the Inca Trail. The women and wives of our cooks and porters from the Ccaccaccollo Community saw how G.A.P Adventures was working to provide jobs on the Inca Trail and approached us to ask us for support to develop a women's weaving project.

Three women from the Ccaccaccollo Community took part in a three month training course held by a local organization in which they learned ancient weaving techniques of the Incas including how to dye the wool using native flowers and plants. Each of the three women continued on to teach the rest of the women what they had learned and today 60 women have joined together to create the Ccaccaccollo Women's Weaving Project.

Beginning in April 2005, G.A.P Adventures groups began to visit this community as part of the Sacred Valley Tour where they have the opportunity to meet the women and learn about all the stages of the weaving process; from spinning the sheep wool, to dying the wool using natural dyes, and participating in a weaving demonstration. Travellers are also given the opportunity to purchase high quality textiles directly from the women who made them.

By working directly with the Ccaccaccollo community G.A.P Adventures and the Planeterra Foundation are encouraging men and women to be proud of their cultural heritage, and enabling them to benefit from tourism in a way that avoids negative social and cultural impacts while providing economic benefits.

How You Can Help
You can help support this project by purchasing these high quality weavings during your visit to the Ccaccaccollo community. All proceeds go directly to the woman who made the weaving.

Donations made through the Planeterra Foundation are based on the needs of the community. In the past our donation has been used to purchase needed construction material to build a place for the women to weave indoors on rainy days and showcase their work. We have also used donation to purchase alpacas for the community so that they do not have to purchase the wool but instead will have their own animals provide a steady supply.

For more information about these projects and/or to make a donation please visit our website at www.planeterra.org or contact us at info@planeterra.org Brochure Intro A perfect combination of nature and culture! This tour adds an Amazon jungle visit to the already popular Inca Empire tour. Explore the pre-Incan ruins of Tiahuanaco and follow in the footsteps of the Incas on the trail to Machu Picchu before heading to the Amazon for wildlife spotting in the Tambopata Forest Reserve. Checklist - Passport (with photocopies)
- Travel insurance (with photocopies)
- Airline tickets (with photocopies)
- USD cash and travellers cheques (see personal spending money)
- Credit card (see personal spending money)
- Debit card (see personal spending money)
- G.A.P Adventures vouchers and dossier
- Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
- Camera and film
- Reading/writing material
- Binoculars
- Cover for backpacks
- Fleece top
- Windproof/waterproof jacket
- 4 shirts/t-shirts
- 2 pairs of long trousers
- 1 pair of shorts
- Sun hat
- 1 pair of shorts
- Sport sandals
- Knee-length socks (to be used with rubber boots, if provided at the jungle lodge)
- Sunblock
- Insect Repellent (low or no DEET if planning to swim)
- Flashlight
- Sunglasses
- Watch or alarm clock
- Water bottle
- Flashlight
- First-aid kit(should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, moleskin or second-skin for blisters, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).

WHILE ON THE INCA TRAIL
- Inner sheet (for sleeping bag)
- Wool hat, mitts or gloves
- Rain poncho (may be purchased in Cuzco for approx $5USD)
- Strong plastic bags to help keep gear dry
- Sleeping bag (this can also be hired locally for approx. $10 USD)
- Mattress (a foam mattress is included as part of the hike; self inflating type mattresses are available for hire)
- Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
- Thermal underwear

All other camping equipment is provided for the Inca Trail excursion. Porters carry the camping gear, food, and a portion of your personal belongings. All you will need to carry is a day-pack, containing waterproof jacket, fleece top, camera, water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, and hat during the hike.

In our continued effort to support the rights of the porters on the Inca Trail we would like ensure that they never exceed the weight limit for their packs as set out by the National Institute of Culture in Peru. Porters are allowed to carry no more than 6Kg of personal belongings per hiker. That means that including your sleeping bag, toiletries, clothing, etc... you are allowed a total weight of 6KG for the hike. Any additional weight must then be carried by you in your day pack. To help achieve this goal we recommend that you carry travel sized toiletries, eg. contact lens solution, that you bring sport sandals that can be worn with socks (which are lighter than running/walking shoes) and that you limit electronics such as Ipods to those that you are willing to carry. Departure Tax USD31 Detailed Trip Notes Dossier Disclaimer The information in this dossier has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and G.A.P Adventures. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. The group leader will advise you of any changes at the initial group meeting. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to improve the itinerary. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your dossier to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Dossier Intro A perfect combination of nature and culture! This tour adds an Amazon jungle visit to the already popular Inca Empire tour. Explore the pre-Incan ruins of Tiahuanaco and follow in the footsteps of the Incas on the trail to Machu Picchu before heading to the Amazon for wildlife spotting in the Tambopata Forest Reserve. Emergency Contact Should you need to contact G.A.P Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our local office in Lima. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so we may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.

G.A.P Adventures Lima, Peru.
Open 7 days a week, 9am to 6pm local time (GMT –5).
Tel: Int. Dialing Code + 51 1 719-8866.
Tel/ Fax: Int. Dialing Code + 51 1 719-8873.

Lima Emergency Cell Phone: +51 199 758 2712, after office hours.

If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office in Lima,
we have a toll-free line for North America, which will connect you directly with our Toronto office. In the event that you cannot get through, you can reach a member of our Operations department at the mobile number below.

Toll-free, North America only: 1 800 465 5600.
Calls from the UK: 0870 999 0144.
Outside North America and the UK: +1 416 260 0999.
Mobile: + 1 416 305 6139. Emergency Fund Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster) necessitate a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Feedback After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that you'll receive a special discount code for free online prints and we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G.A.P Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Please visit http://www.gapadventures.com/evaluations
Finishing Point Hotel Lima
Hotel Colonial Inn
Av. Comandante Espinar #310
Miraflores, Lima, Peru
Tel: Int. Dialing Code + 51 1 241 7471
Fax:Int. Dialing Code + 51 1 445 7587 Free Online Trip Journals An online Trip Journal is a great way to record stories and photos as you travel, not to mention sharing your experiences with friends. Encourage your family and friends to follow in your footsteps as you explore the world! With templates for over 300 G.A.P Adventures trips already online all you have to do to get started is log in, choose your trip and your departure date, it's quick and easy! Head to http://www.gapadventures.com/trip_journal. Group Leader Description All G.A.P Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G.A.P Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. Health You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings in this dossier for trip specific information. For travellers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is required. G.A.P Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.
Proof of Yellow Fever inoculation is officially required before you depart for the Amazon. You should be aware that there is a 10 to 15 day period before the inoculation becomes fully effective.
Please note your Adventure travels to high altitude. This is medically defined as anything over 8,000 feet (2,440 meters). Most people can travel to 8,000 feet with minimal effects. However,everyone reacts to altitude differently and altitude sickness can on set with some people irrespective of fitness and age. For details on how to best prepare and what to do in the unlikely event you are effected on your Adventure, please consult your physician. Important Notes 1. The rules and regulations controlling the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are continually changing. Before embarking on your adventure to Peru it is very important that you familiarize yourself with the Inca Trail booking policies and guidelines as described in a document available on our website, at the following URL address:

http://www.gapadventures.com/inca-advisory.php

2. Those passengers not able to or not interested in the hike can take the train. They will spend two days in Cuzco before travelling to Aguas Calientes by train, where they will overnight and rendezvous with the hikers in the ruins of Machu Picchu. If you decide not to do the hike we need to know prior to your departure in order to obtain the correct train tickets. Please advise your agent or G.A.P Adventures.

3. Portions of the Inca Trail will be closed for general maintenance during the month of February each year. Also, closures may occur at various times throughout the year due to inclement weather or other conditions beyond our control. During these periods, any tour affected will hike the Lares Trek.

4. Please note that this tour combines with other G.A.P Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G.A.P Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G.A.P Adventures tour, after your trip concludes. Itinerary Disclaimer While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit travel with G.A.P Adventures can be unpredictable. The dossier is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard Polaris visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Joining Hotel La Paz
Hotel Diamante Azul
Psje Aroma 40
casi esqina Illampu
entre Santa Cruz Y Graneros
La Paz, Bolivia
Tel: Int. Dialing Code + 00 591 2 2457576 / 00 591 2 2457677
Fax: Int. Dialing Code + 00 591 2 2458976 Joining Instructions EL Alto International Airport is a spectacular drive from the center of La Paz, where our joining hotel is located. The easiest way to get there is via taxi. You can pay for the car at set rates (approximately $8 USD) from an official uniformed taxi driver. The trip takes approximately 30 minutes and is very scenic. The money exchange desk is open 9am to 7 pm.If you are arriving from abroad and have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G.A.P Adventures representative will meet you at the airport. If no one is there, take a public taxi to the hotel and we will reimburse you. If you have not paid for an arrival transfer, the best way to get into town is by public taxi. If your taxi driver does not speak English and you do not speak Spanish, simply show driver the hotel address to simplify communications. Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned for that day so you may arrive at any time. Similarly the last day is a departure day in which no activities have been planned. Your Leader will contact you at the hotel on Day 1 and make sure you are settled comfortably. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning. The Leader will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. Keeping in Touch If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travellers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our Emergency Contact. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to change, and our hotel receptions often don't have English speaking staff.
Laundry Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Local Flights All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.
Local payment description Most of our adventure tours involve a local payment. This amount is a portion of the price of the trip and the final payment for your tour. Paying locally facilitates the flow of funds into countries that we travel through and also helps to reduce the overall price of the tour. This helps G.A.P Adventures keep our prices competitive and in-turn, pass our costs savings on to you. Payment is to be made to your leader or G.A.P Adventures representative upon arrival in cash in the requested currency. Please see our website, brochure or your trip documents and invoice for local payment.
Meals Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G.A.P Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On truck trips in Africa, aboard the expedition ship Explorer or our Galapagos yachts, while trekking in remote regions etc. food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. The above information applies to G.A.P Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Medical Form Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an 'average level of fitness and mobility' is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers over the age of 70, or travellers with a pre-existing medical condition, are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that senior travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided. Please refer to the physical and culture shock ratings in this dossier for more information.

Please note that all passengers, regardless of age traveling on the MS Explorer or the MS Andrea are required to fill out this questionnaire.

The medical questionnaire can be found online at:

www.gapadventures.com/online_medical_form.
Money Exchange Debit cards are very useful for cash advances, but you must remember to bring your PIN number (be aware that many ATM machines only accept 4-digit PINs.). Both Cirrus and Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank. Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY but please do not rely on them as a method of payment because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies.
Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollar cash, travellers cheques and cards is best, although you will usually be charged a commission or given a less-favourable exchange rate for travellers cheques. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 100USD (or equivalent).

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com
Newsletter Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G.A.P Adventures, subscribe at www.gapadventures.com/newsletter_signup
Optional Activities All prices are per person in US dollar amounts.

La Paz:
Chacaltaya tour $12
City tour $15
Mountain biking $45-$60
Museum of Precious Pre-Colombian Metals entrance $2 for ticket to four museums
Casa de Don Perdo Domingo Murillo entrance included in ticket above

Puno:
Sillustani archaeological site $10

Cuzco:
Boleto Turistico (tourist ticket) $14-25
City tour $12
Horseback riding around ruins (with guide) $25 - $35
Horseback riding around ruins (without guide) $12
Whitewater rafting $30-45
Mountain biking $35
Inka Museum $2 entrance
Action Valley - bungee etc. $60+

Lima:
City tour $25 (including the Gold Museum $45)
San Francisco Church and catacombs $1.50
Museo de la Nation $2 entrance
Museum of the Inquisition $2 entrance
Larco Herrera Museum $6 entrance Our Commitment to Responsible Travel in Antarctica Planeterra-The G.A.P Adventures Foundation Through G.A.P Adventures’ commitment to responsible tourism we have developed Planeterra – the G.A.P Adventures Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities around the world through support of international charities, local organizations and community projects in the places that we visit on our tours. G.A.P Adventures matches all individual donations and pays all administration fees, which means that 100% of each donation is doubled and goes directly to support our projects. For more information about Planeterra and the projects we support, or to make a donation, please visit www.planeterra.org

Planeterra Dollar-A-Day Program
Our Dollar-A-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to help us give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar per day for the duration of their tour. 100% of these proceeds will go directly to support our Planeterra projects.

To participate in this program please indicate at the time of booking that you would like to participate in G.A.P Adventures’ Dollar-A-Day program, either by clicking the check box online, or by advising your GA.P Adventures specialist or travel agent. (Note: Donation will be charged in the currency of your booking) Responsible Travel Being a responsible tour operator is at the heart of what G.A.P Adventures is all about. From the start, G.A.P Adventures has been committed to offering low-impact tours that benefit traveller and host alike. While our sustainable tourism policies are constantly evolving, our commitment to socially conscious, grassroots style travel has never changed. We work with local communities, businesses and individuals to develop sustainable tourism opportunities that help local economies while minimizing negative environmental and cultural impacts.

For more information about our commitment to responsible travel, please visit the Sustainable Tourism section of the G.A.P Adventures website: www.gapadventures.com
Safety and Security Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Single Travellers We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Spending Money Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Tipping It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G.A.P Adventures Tour Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used. Travel Forum - The Watering Hole Be sure to stop by The Watering Hole, our adventure travel forum. If you're interested in meeting others booked on your upcoming trip, check out the Departure Lounge section of our forum and introduce yourself. Otherwise, just drop in at anytime to share some travel tips, ask questions, meet other travellers and quench your thirst for travel. Our forum is located at wateringhole.gapadventures.com. Travel Insurance Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Trip Specific Safety Care should be taken when wandering around on your own in central Lima, as some areas can be dangerous and pickpockets are daring. Validity Valid for all trips departing January 1, 2008 - December 31st 2008. Visas All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. IT'S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION.
We Want Your Photos Want to see your photos in print or on the web? Then enter our annual "Great G.A.P Adventures Travel Photo Contest". Simply go online to gapadventures.com/contests/photo_contest to upload your images for a chance to win great prizes including a trip for two! Every year, G.A.P Adventures publishes the best photos received from our travellers in our new brochure. If you prefer to submit slide film or photos instead of digital entries online, just make sure they are clearly marked with your name and contact details on each and the place where it was taken. Unfortunately, we are unable to return any entries. Send mailed entries to "Photo Editor" at our head office.
What to Take Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

PLEASE NOTE that your luggage allowance for the jungle boat from Puerto Maldonado is 10 kg. Excess luggage can be safely stored in Puerto Maldonado – please talk to the local guide of you need this arranged.
Your Fellow Travellers As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.