Peru's desert coast, towering Andes, wondrous Amazon, and most spectacular lake make up this packed 3-week exploration of the Inca heartland. Inca Heartland & Amazon Classic 2009 GAP 6 16 Max 16, Avg 10 South America Peru, Bolivia, Machu Picchu, Inca Trail La Paz Lima Bolivia Peru Culture/History, Trekking/Hiking, Wildlife/Nature 21 4 Standard http://www.gapadventures.com/images/banners/peru/peru_incatrail_1.jpg Arrive in La Paz at any time. Enjoy spectacular views of the Altiplano countryside on a travel day from La Paz, around Lake Titicaca and on to Puno. Take a boat trip to visit the Uros people, Amantani and Taquile island, then immerse yourself in Peruvian rural life with a homestay in a small village. Enjoy spectacular views on a full day of travel through the high Altiplano region as we travel from Puno to Cuzco. Fly from the high Andes to Puerto Maldonado, deep in the Amazon lowlands. Travel by motorized canoe to our lodge in the Tambopata Rainforest Area, and explore the jungle life with our expert local guides. Return to Puerto Maldonado for an early morning flight back to Cuzco. Take in all that the city has to offer with a stroll through the city or if interested an optional city tour. Travel with our local guide through the Sacred Valley to Pisac and the picturesque town and Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo. Begin a once in a lifetime journey on the ancient trail of the Incas with a morning trip to km 82, where our hike starts. Local porters and guides ensure that the trip is worry-free, and 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 13. Fly this morning to Arequipa, Peru’s second largest city. Explore its delightful colonial past or make an optional visit to the peaceful Santa Catalina Convent. Spend one night in the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Return to Arequipa and visit the local cafés, go for one more night on the town, or rest up before the night bus to Nazca. Nazca sits in the heart of the ancient coastal desert Paracas culture. Take an optional flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines, and then visit a fascinating Pre-Inca cemetery in the Nazca desert with 1500 year-old mummies, bones and pottery. In the morning we catch a bus for Pisco and travel along the coast. Enjoy the city's renowned local cocktail, the Pisco Sour. Take an optional excursion to the Ballestas Islands. Arrive in Lima late afternoon for one last night on the town. Arrive in La Paz at any time. Check into the hotel and enjoy the city as there are no planned activities.

The altitude and resulting lack of oxygen may affect you due to height of the village. It may take a little time to acclimatize to this, but before long you probably will not even notice it. Take it easy for the first day or two, and make sure you cut back on alcohol and cigarette consumption to minimize the effects. You may also find that your appetite is reduced. This is no cause for alarm, but simply a reaction to the altitude. Drink plenty of water and do not attempt too much in any given day.

Founded by Alonso de Mendoza in 1548, La Ciudad de Nuestra Señora de La Paz (the City of Our Lady of Peace) is the highest capital in the world. Although Sucre is the official capital, La Paz is the Bolivian centre of commerce, finance and industry, and the de facto capital. This is a busy modern city, with its center at the base of a canyon 5 km (3 miles) wide and sprawling impromptu housing all the way up the surrounding hillsides. The city is just under the 4000 m (13,120 ft) mark, so visitors should be prepared for cool evenings and mornings.

Explore the city’s many fine museums or its historic ecclesiastical structures, such as the Iglesia de San Francisco, whose architectural details reflect the indigenous and mestizo heritage of modern Bolivia. The city is also renowned for its many markets, including the Mercado de Hechicería (Witches’ Market), where Paceños and visitors alike may purchase potions and incantations made from all sorts of herbs, seeds, and secret ingredients to remedy any number of illnesses (real or imagined) and protect from evil spirits. With streets lined with market stalls and vendors, the pace on the street and the vibrant atmosphere is an incredible experience. You have time to check out the thriving black market and a Carnaval market, where locals purchase carnival costumes. Discover a wealth of shops selling all sorts of handicrafts, mainly alpaca wool products, silver jewellery, woven textiles and leather goods.

Visit, as an optional tour, one of the many museums or partake in a visit to the world’s highest ski resort, Chacaltaya (5600 m/18,368 ft). To the south of the city is the Valley of the Moon, with crater-like formations made of sand. Enjoy spectacular views of the Altiplano countryside on this full day of travel from La Paz, around Lake Titicaca and on to Puno. The next morning we board a boat on Lake Titicaca. We head to Taquile Island for lunch in a local restaurant and the chance for some shopping in the local weaving cooperatives. From there we head to Amantani where overnight with a local family and enjoy typical music of the area. The following morning we will visit the floating islands of Uros en route to Puno.

Titicaca is the largest lake in the world above 2000m, and the views from both Amantaní and Taquile Islands are stunning. On our way to Taquile Island we pass the floating islands of the Uros people. The Uros began their unusual floating existence centuries ago in an effort to isolate themselves from the Colla and Inca tribes. Sadly, the Uros language has died out, and today they speak Aymara due to intermarriage with Aymara-speakers. Today about 300 families live on the islands, however their numbers are slowly declining.

The Totora reeds that grow in the shallows of the lake are used for making everything from the islands themselves to the model boats that the islanders sell. The islands are made up of layers upon layers of reeds; as the layers closest to the water start to rot, they are replaced with fresh reeds on top. The reeds are also used to build their boats, which if constructed well will last up to 6 months.

The people of Taquile Island's unique culture, style of dress and lifestyle make for a memorable visit. The men of the community do all the knitting, as this is strictly a male domain, while the women do the spinning. High quality, locally knitted goods are available for purchase at various cooperatives on the island. Despite the short distance that separates the two islands, Amantaní is quite distinct. Its soil is a rich terra cotta red, due to the high iron deposits, and the colour contrasts brightly with the deep azure blue of the lake and sky and the greenery of the local crops. For the night we split into smaller groups and billet into family homes to experience their style of living first-hand.

The following morning we visit the Uros Islands on our way back to Puno. Return to Puno for a night before leaving for Cuzco. The trip from Puno to Cuzco takes the better part of the day. Travel through the high Altiplano region and take time to notice the stark and beautiful scenery en route.

Every year Cuzco attracts thousands of travellers who come to experience an age-old culture and to delve into its tragic and noble past. It is the perfect base for optional explorations around the city and area as well as a range of outdoor activities. We spend the next few days relaxing and exploring this fascinating city, while taking time to acclimatize to the higher altitude before our trek.

Cuzco is the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city, and the hub of the South American travel network and in this respect is reminiscent of Kathmandu in Nepal. Both cities attract travellers who come not just to visit a unique destination but also to experience an age-old culture very different from their 20th century way of life; one could easily spend a week just in and around the area. Inca-built stone walls line most of the central streets and you don't have to go far to see other major Inca ruins. It is a city steeped in history, tradition and legend.

Cuzco’s numerous colonial churches are one of the most common sights. The Cathedral was started in 1559 and took 100 years to build. It is also one of the city’s greatest repositories of colonial art. Immediately in front of the entrance is a vault containing the remains of the famous Inca historian, Garcilaso de la Vega. Also worth visiting are the churches of La Compañía, La Merced and San Francisco.

While most ruins are just outside of the city, the main ruin within is that of the Coricancha, once the Inca Empire's richest temple. This ruin forms the base of the colonial church of Santo Domingo. During Inca times this temple was literally covered with gold, but within months of the arrival of the first conquistadors this incredible wealth had all been melted down. It is left to the individual imagination to envision the magnificence of the original structure.

There are several good museums in Cuzco, including the Archaeological Museum, which also houses a small art museum, the Regional History Museum and the Religious Art Museum. Our best advice for exploring Cuzco is to wear a comfortable pair of shoes, arm yourself with a city map and set off to explore! Fly from Cuzco, high in the Andes, to Puerto Maldonado, deep in the lowlands of the Amazon jungle. Travel by motorized canoe to our lodge in the Tambopata Rainforest Area, which 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.

About half of Peru is located within the Amazon Basin, however, due to its isolation, not a lot of it is available to the casual traveller. Puerto Maldonado is the region’s principal city and is serviced by air from the capital and from Cuzco. The town is situated at the confluence of the Madre de Dios and Tambopata Rivers, and is a bustling, booming tropical frontier town. Its principal activities are gold mining, Brazil nut collecting, timber extraction, agriculture and ecotourism. After a brief stop in the town depart on an afternoon boat trip by motorized canoe to our jungle lodge. Depending on flight arrival times, either have a boxed lunch aboard the boat or enjoy a sit-down lunch upon arrival at the lodge. Take the opportunity to spot on of the hundreds of bird species typical of the river or forest edge such as Black Skimmers, Pied Lapwings, Capped Herons, Jabiru Storks, Roadside Hawks and several species of kingfishers, swallows, and flycatchers. The Tambopata area includes habitats ranging from the Andean highlands around the rivers' headwaters through some of the last remaining intact cloud forests to the lowland rainforests of the Amazon basin. The area is renowned for its diverse plant and animal populations and include over 1,300 bird species (including 32 parrot species - 10% of the world’s total), 200 mammal species including 4 species of primates, 90 frog species, 1,200 butterfly species and 10,000 species of higher plants—all protected within the reserve. Some of the more famous residents are the Harpy Eagle, the prehistoric looking Hoatzin, tapir, peccary, jaguar, ocelot and playful river otters who live in the area’s oxbow lakes.

The lodge itself combines native architectural style and materials with low-impact eco-friendly technology. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with mosquito netting for individual beds, flush toilets, showers (no hot water), and kerosene lamps for lighting (no electricity). Local community members make up the majority the lodge staff, including multilingual Naturalist Guides. Here you have the opportunity to learn from them not only about the area’s rich flora and fauna, but also about their extensive practical uses for medicinal plants and other forest plant resources, through traditional techniques for building, fishing, and hunting. Return to Puerto Maldonado for an early morning flight back to Cuzco. Cuzco is considered the mecca of Peru and rightly so. This beautiful colonial town offers much to the visitor with its nearby ruins, cobble-stoned streets, museums, churches and lively atmosphere. Try on of the more adventurous optional activities available in Cuzco like horseback riding around archaeological sites such as Sacsayhuaman, Tambo Machay and Puca Pucara, white water rafting on the Urubamba River and mountain biking down to the Sacred Valley, perhaps visiting an Inca ruin along the way. Travel with our local guide through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Visit the impressive Pisac ruins and the colourful artisan market (market days only). The day trip finishes in the picturesque village of Ollantaytambo, site of another large Inca ruin. Catch your breath and prepare for the hike ahead.

Ollantaytambo is your first taste of what lies ahead on the Inca Trail. This major ruin site is known as the best surviving example of Inca urban planning and engineering. It is admired for its huge steep terraces guarding the Inca Fortress and for being one of the few places where the Spanish lost a major battle during the conquest. Spend the night in this small town before heading out for the start of the hike the next morning. The 4-day hike on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is included in the cost of the tour. For those interested in a challenging but worthwhile hike, the Inca Trail is exceptional, however you must be prepared for it! It is a 40-km (25 mile) hike, with 3 high passes to be crossed, one of which reaches an elevation of 4200m (13776 ft). The trail is often steep, and it may rain even during the dry season. The temperatures at night may fall below zero, so it is important to come prepared.

Depart Ollantaytambo for km 82, the beginning of our walk in the footsteps of the Incas. The local crew of porters, cooks and guides look after you for the duration of this hike. Porters carry the majority of the gear for the hike, so those passengers doing the hike only carry a small daypack with water, rain gear, snacks, a camera, etc. Walk the trail that linked this ancient empire and admire breathtaking views at every step as we move from high plateau areas to dense cloud forest. Keep an eye out for a great variety of flora (seasonal), including miniature and large orchids, and fiery rhododendron bushes.

Pass several smaller ruin sites, the first of which is Llactapata. On the second day, climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, or Dead Woman’s Pass. At 4198 m (13769 ft) above sea level, this pass is the highest point of the trek. Enjoy superb views of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba which is the second pass of the hike at 3998 m (13113 ft). The trail goes through some beautiful cloud forest on the gentle climb to the third pass. At this point, walk through a causeway and a tunnel, both original Inca constructions. The highest point of the third pass is at 3700m (12136 ft). Reward yourself by taking the time to appreciate the beautiful views of the Urubamba. Reach the serene ruins of Phuyupatamarca, or the 'Town above the Clouds', at about 3650 m (11972 ft) above sea level. Camp for the final night close to Wiñay Wayna (Forever Young) ruins, a grandiose terraced hillside site, with panoramic views of the valley below and just a short hike from Machu Picchu.

On the final day of the hike climb the steps to the Sun Gate overlooking the peaks that surround Machu Picchu. There is no way to describe the feeling of the first views of Machu Picchu, as the mist rises off the mountains early in the morning and the famous ruin appears in front of you.
Machu Picchu is both the best and the least known of the Inca ruins. It is not mentioned in any of the chronicles of the Spanish conquistadors and archaeologists today can do no more than speculate on its function. The local Quechua farmers in the area knew of Machu Picchu for centuries, but it was not until an 11-year-old boy led the American historian Hiram Bingham (who was in search of Vilcabamba) to the site on July 24, 1911, that the rest of the world became aware of its existence. At that time the site was covered in thick vegetation, and Bingham and his team returned in 1912 and 1915 to clear the growth. Over the years, much work has been done on excavating and studying the site. Despite these efforts, many unanswered questions remain.

Take the better part of the day to explore the site. In the afternoon, soak in the hot springs of Aguas Calientes before taking the train back to Cuzco.

NOTE: Those passengers not able or interested in the hike spend 2 days in Cuzco, then travel by train to Aguas Calientes, where they overnight. Next morning they take the bus to the Machu Picchu entrance and rendezvous with the hikers at the ruins. If you decide not to do the hike we need to know prior to your departure in order to obtain train tickets. Please advise your agent or G.A.P Adventures.

Also note that 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 take an alternate route along the Urubamba River. Peru’s second most important city after Lima, Arequipa maintains a traditional colonial style and more laid back pace in comparison with the capital. Arequipa was built from a very light coloured volcanic rock called sillar, so older buildings dazzle in the sun, giving the city its nickname, “the White City.” The main plaza with its cafés and nearby cathedral is a top draw for visitors.

Those with an interest in history and architecture may take an optional visit to the Convent of Santa Catalina, offering a brief respite from the outside world and a unique view into a bygone way of life. Spectacular mountains surround Arequipa, the most famous of which is El Misti Volcano, with its beautiful snow-capped peak at 5822 m (19096 ft).

The next two days are dedicated to visiting the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, which involves a remarkable drive through Inca and pre-Inca terracing. Once at the Canyon look for the king of the Andes, the Andean Condor, as well as alpacas, llamas and vicuñas, while enjoying the stunning highland scenery. Night bus to Nazca. Travel north to one of the world's greatest archaeological mysteries, the Nazca Lines. The lines consist of patterns and pictures etched in the ground, crisscrossing a wide area of flat desert. Some of the lines measure up to 10 km (32 miles) in length, and yet remain perfectly straight. The depictions of birds, insects and animals are only recognizable from the air. Who drew the lines, and why, is something that modern archaeologists can only theorize about, but current beliefs suggest that they may be part of complex agricultural calendar. From the ground we can make out very little, and the best view is from a light aircraft, which can easily be arranged.

The entire desert area was also once the home for the ancient Paracas and the Nazca cultures, which preceded the Incas by more than half a millennium. Remains of the Nazca culture are still visible during our tour of an ancient Pre-Inca desert cemetery site, with 1500 year-old mummies, bones and pottery. The tour also includes a visit to a pottery workshop. In the morning, catch a bus for Pisco and travel north along the coast.

Pisco is an oasis in this barren land, and an important port town. The name is derived from the white grape brandy produced in the region. If you haven’t yet tried the national drink, the Pisco Sour, then this is the place to do it. While the town itself is of considerable historical and archaeological interest, use it as a starting point for an optional visit to the Ballestas Islands, where you can observe the sea lion colonies, penguins and a variety of other birds.
If you did not go yesterday, take the optional excursion to the Ballestas Islands in the early morning. The islands are very popular with visitors who come to view the lively sea lion colony, pelicans, penguins and other varieties of bird life. Arrive in Lima by late afternoon.

Known as the City of Kings, Peru’s capital city Lima was founded by Francisco Pizarro on the Day of the Three Kings (Epiphany) in 1535. The Plaza de Armas is the heart of old Lima, and it is here you find the Cathedral, Government Palace and Archbishop’s Palace. The Cathedral dates back to the 1700s and houses the remains of the conquistador Pizarro. Get a feel for colonial Lima by taking a cab to the Plaza de Armas and watching the changing of the Palace Guard in the afternoon. Walk the streets surrounding the Jirón de la Unión for great examples of Spanish-colonial architecture and to get a taste for life in a large South American city.

There are many fine museums in and around the city, including the Museo Rafael Larco Herrera, which houses an equally impressive collection of pottery, mummies and textiles from the Paracas and Nazca cultures. An optional city tour visits many of the city’s highlights. The more affluent districts of Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro, which are on the coast, offer good nightlife and cafés all within walking distance. Limeños (Lima’s residents) are friendly, and the city is filled with excellent restaurants; seafood lovers in particular should be sure to try a ceviche, for which Lima is well known. 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local 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2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 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2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD 2779 2659 1689 1129 3649 2479 1899 2779 309.00 289.00 189.00 159.00 399.00 269.00 189.00 269.00 Local Payment 300 USD Accommodation Hotels (13 nts), Bus (1 nt), Jungle lodge (2 nts), Camping (3 nts), Homestay (1 nt). Associated RT Project Optional visit to Planeterra community projects 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 of 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. Departure Departs weekly DepEnd Fri-Thurs Group Leader Tour leader throughout, local guides. Group Size Max 16, Avg 10 Highlights La Paz, Lake Titicaca,Puno, Cusco, Amazon Jungle, Ollantaytambo, Inca Trail, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Nasca, Pisco, Lima. Max Pax 16 Meal Budget Allow USD300 for meals not included. For additional expenses, see trip details. Meals Included All meals while in the jungle, during homestay and on the Inca Trail. Min Pax 6 My Own Room Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops, with the following exceptions: Night 3: Lake Titicaca/Taquile Island, Nights 6-7: Amazon Jungle, Nights 10-12: Inca Trail Recommendation This trip is available without the Amazon - see code BXLM. Reverse Itinerary This trip also runs in reverse - see trip code PJML. Special Comments Web
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StartFinish La Paz to Lima Testimonial "It was the most well organized and professionally run trip I have been on. The Inca Trail and Jungle Lodge were very big highlights." - Glen Hrycan travelled on Inca Heartland and Amazon Transport Public bus, Local flight, Canoe, Train, Boat, Hiking. What's Included Guided tour of Taquile and Uros Islands on Lake Titicaca with overnight family homestay, 2-night Amazon Jungle Excursion, Guided tour of Sacred Valley, 4-day Inca Trail hike with local guide, cook and porters, Guided tour of Machu Picchu, Guided tour of Colca Canyon (overnight) and Tour of Nazca desert cemetery and potter's studio. 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 Peru's desert coast, towering Andes, wondrous Amazon, and most spectacular lake make up this packed 3-week exploration of the Inca heartland. Checklist - Passport (with photocopies)
- Travel insurance (with photocopies)
- Airline tickets (with photocopies)
- USD cash and travellers cheques
- Credit or 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
- Pocketknife
- Concealable money belt
- Fleece top
- Windproof/waterproof jacket
- Small towel and swim wear
- 4 shirts/t-shirts
- Sun hat
- 1 pair of shorts
- 2 pairs of long trousers
- 1 pair hiking pants/track pants
- Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes
- Sport sandals
- Knee-length socks (to be used with rubber boots, if provided at the jungle lodge)
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries (biodegradable)
- Watch or alarm clock
- Water bottle
- Purification tablets or filter (optional)
- Flashlight
- First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, 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 (preferably waterproof)
- Rain poncho (can be purchased in Cuzco for approximately $5 USD)
- Strong plastic bags to help keep gear dry
- Sleeping bag (this can also be hired locally for approximately $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

Note: If bringing a walking stick, it must be rubber tipped as steel tips are not allowed on trails

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 trip details document 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. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. 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 the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Dossier Intro Peru's desert coast, towering Andes, wondrous Amazon, and most spectacular lake make up this packed 3-week exploration of the Inca heartland. 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
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 This G.A.P Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. 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 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 is a combination of several G.A.P Adventures tours. As such, your group tour leader, fellow passengers, or vehicle may change between the individual tour sections.

5. Please note that this trip is a combination of multiple G.A.P Adventures tours. As such, the staff and/or particular vehicles operating your tour may change between tour segments. You may also expect some group members to join or leave the tour, between tour segments. 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 Trip Details document 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 expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances. Joining Hotel La PazHostal Residencial RosarioAvenida Illampu #704Casilla 442La Paz, BoliviaTel: Int. Dialing Code + 591 2-2-451-658Fax:Int. Dialing Code + 591 2-2-451-991 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 7pm.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 and make sure to set the price beforehand.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 during 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. Your Tour 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