Adventure Tours   >   South America Adventure Tours   >  Lake Titicaca & Machu Picchu Independent Adventure

Lake Titicaca & Machu Picchu Independent Adventure Adventure Tour

South America

  • Peru

Spend eight days exploring the land of the Incas, including Lima, Lake Titicaca, and Cusco. Visit the highest lake in the world and meet the people that live around it. Delight in the views of the Sacred Valley on the train to Machu Picchu. Enjoy the very best of Peru.


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 or refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier. 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.


Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures  

Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures' itineraries globally.
G Adventures is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.

G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation.

Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment.

Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.


Transport  

Bus, private van, boat, train, plane, walking.


Visas and Entry Requirements  

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 is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements.

Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information pageĀ here


Group Leader  

G Adventures Representative in Lima and Cusco, Inca guide.


Emergency Fund  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!


Departure Tax  

Domestic: USD $58


Optional Activities  

Lima
- Lima City Tour (40USD per person)
- Lima Cooking Class (4hrs)
- Full Day Lima Experience (150USD per person)
- Bike Miraflores and Barranco (35USD per person)
- MALI & Peruvian Paso Horse with dinner (90USD per person)
- Huacas and Larco Museum by Night (90USD per person)

Ollantaytambo
- Ollantaytambo Storehouse Ruins and Hike
- Ollantaytambo Ruins Visit

Aguas Calientes
- Butterfly House Visit
- Hot Springs Visit (6USD per person)

Cusco
- Inka Museum (10PEN per person)
- Cusco City Tour (45PEN per person)
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (130PEN per person)


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.


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.


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. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time, we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. 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.

Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.

Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety.

Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.

We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit:


www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/


Travel Insurance  

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. 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.


Group Size Notes  

No Minimum.


Solo 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 or multi-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.


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 yourself and those around you at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our 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.


Feedback  

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at [email protected] and we will send it on to you.


Accommodation  

Hotels (7 nts).


Money Exchange  

The currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol (PEN).

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted 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.

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 and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

We do not recommend bringing travellers cheques as they are very difficult to change in country.

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


International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.


Meals Included  

7 breakfasts, 2 lunches


Meals  

Eating is a big part of traveling. G Adventures understands the importance of breakfast to start your day, we strive to include a basic breakfast wherever possible. A typical breakfast may include toast, coffee and tea, however this may vary depending on the city. Should breakfast not be included, reception at your hotel may be able to suggest some local options.

Travelling with G 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. While trekking in remote regions etc. food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients.

For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.


About our Transportation  

Land Transfers & Included Tours/activities: Many of the land transfers and included tours will be by private van, car or taxi, while others may be shared with other travellers depending on availability, nature of the activity and destination. For transfers, you may have a local non English-speaking driver only, for included tours, you will be accompanied by an English speaking local guide.


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.


Emergency Contact  

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS

Should you need to contact G 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.

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Office Lima, Peru.
During office hours (Weekdays, 9-6pm Local Time): +51 1 241 1650
After hours Emergency number: +51 99 758 2712 (WhatsApp Available)

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 UK: 0344 272 0000
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Outside North America, Australia and the UK: +1 416 260 0999


What's Included  

Your G for Good Moment: Ccaccaccollo Community and Women's Weaving Co-op visit, Ccaccaccollo
Your G for Good Moment: Parwa Community Restaurant the Sacred Valley, Lamay. Arrival and departure transfer. Guided tour of Uros and Taquile Islands on Lake Titicaca. Sacred Valley guided tour. Pottery-making demonstration. Train to Machu Picchu. Guided tour of Machu Picchu. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.


Highlights  

Witness traditional life on Lake Titicaca, soak in the views and culture of the Sacred Valley, stand in awe of the famed Machu Picchu


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 the operator. 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.


Important Notes  

Return flight to Lima is not included, if you would like to include it, please advise your Adventure specialist at time of booking.


Joining Instructions  

An arrival transfer is included, so long as you have provided G Adventures with your arrival flight details at time of booking.

**Please note, the arrival transfer included occurs on Day 1 of the tour. If you plan to arrive prior to Day 1, you will be required to arrange pre-tour accommodation through G Adventures to be eligible for the transport from the airport. Due to customer experience and quality considerations, all services related to the tour must be continuous.

Upon leaving the baggage claim area you will see a large open area with sign boards all around. Look for a G Adventures sign board with your name. As there are many people and signs in this area it may be difficult for you to spot the sign immediately. Please take your time in doing so and if at that stage you do not see a G Adventures sign board with your name go to the customer service area to wait. In the event that your driver does not arrive within 20 minutes please ask the information desk to arrange an official taxi for you which should cost approximately $27 USD and this money will be reimbursed by your G Adventures representative.

FINDING YOUR TRANSFER - As you walk out of the airport there will be many drivers holding signs with agency or passenger names as well as taxi drivers asking you if you require their services. These are NOT our drivers and you should not accept their services. Please wait for our designated transfer person with a G Adventures sign board.

Depending on your time of arrival, our meet and greet representative will either meet you at the airport or later at your hotel to go over the details of your tour, provide any additional documentation/e-tickets and answer questions about your tour. Check in time for most Hotels is after 3:00pm - should you arrive early, you can leave you baggage at the hotel and explore the city.

Jorge Chavez International Airport in Callao Lima, is approximately a 45-minute drive from the Miraflores district, where our joining hotel is located. The easiest way to get there is via taxi. Immediately after the customs and immigration area, as you head to the exits, you will find an official taxi stand. You can pay for the car at set (approximately $27 USD) rates and won't need to worry about sorting out a ride outside the airport facilities, where the situation tends to get more chaotic, with many drivers vying for few clients. There are exchange facilities in the Arrivals area open 24 hours.


Minimum Age  

Minimum age of 2 years for this trip.


About Accommodation  

A variety of accommodation standards are available for Independent tours, see your dossier for the accommodation class specific to your tour. Please remember that hotel/lodge/resort standards can be different from what you are used to in your home country, which is part of the appeal of adventure travel . Porterage is not included, but can be arranged directly at most hotels.

Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Peru (even in upgraded hotels and private homes). We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.


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 using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.


Packing List  

Documents:
ā€¢ Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
ā€¢ Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
ā€¢ Passport (required) (With photocopies)
ā€¢ Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
ā€¢ Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
ā€¢ Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
ā€¢ Binoculars (optional)
ā€¢ Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
ā€¢ Cash, credit and debit cards
ā€¢ Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
ā€¢ Ear plugs
ā€¢ First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
ā€¢ Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
ā€¢ Fleece top/sweater
ā€¢ Footwear
ā€¢ Hat
ā€¢ Locks for bags
ā€¢ Long pants/jeans
ā€¢ Moneybelt
ā€¢ Outlet adapter
ā€¢ Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
ā€¢ Reusable water bottle
ā€¢ Shirts/t-shirts
ā€¢ Sleepwear
ā€¢ Small travel towel
ā€¢ Sunglasses
ā€¢ Swimwear
ā€¢ Watch and alarm clock
ā€¢ Waterproof backpack cover
ā€¢ Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
ā€¢ Hand sanitizer (required)
ā€¢ Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
ā€¢ Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
ā€¢ Quick Covid Test/Antigen Test

Light Hiking:
ā€¢ Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes
ā€¢ Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)
ā€¢ Sleeping bag liner/sleep sheet

Warm Weather:
ā€¢ Sandals/flip-flops
ā€¢ Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
ā€¢ Sturdy water shoes/sandals
ā€¢ Sun hat/bandana
ā€¢ Swimwear


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 Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/

Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation - Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.


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.


Tipping  

It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, and local guide(s) 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.


Health  

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes 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. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves or others around them.

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.


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 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  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

Day 1 Lima

Arrive at any time and transfer to hotel.

Arrive in Lima at any time. On arrival you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel.

Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Peru (even in upgraded hotels and private homes). We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.

Day 2 Lima/Puno

Fly to Juliaca then transfer to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

Located at 3830 m above sea level, Puno is the highest night stop on the tour. As a result the weather can be extreme, with very cold nights and strong sun during the day. Take some time to acclimatise to the high altitude.

Day 3 Puno

Take a full day boat excursion on the world's highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca. Visit the community on Taquile Island and the floating islands of Uros before returning to Puno.

Enjoy an included lunch with spectacular views on Taquile Island before continuing on to the renowned floating islands of Uros. Learn about its inhabitants and the tortora reeds used to construct the islands, traditional reed boats and almost everything used in their daily life. Return to Puno and have some free time to explore the city or to relax.

Day 4 Puno/Cusco

Take in the panoramic landscapes and Andean scenery en route from Puno to historic Cusco.

Day 5 Cusco/Urubamba

Enjoy a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley. Stop at the G Adventures-supported women's weaving co-op before visiting a local pottery making community. Break for lunch at the G Adventures-supported Parwa community restaurant in Huchuy Qosco. After lunch, opt to head out on a hike to the Ollantaytambo storehouses and look out over the ruins. Or, wander around the cobblestone streets and visit a local Chicheria (corn beer bar).

Travel through the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting a G Adventures-supported women's weaving co-op. Meet the women and learn about traditional weaving and dyeing. Opt to pick up some handmade souvenirs and textiles directly from the women who made them.

Have lunch at the G Adventures-supported Parwa community restaurant and learn about the G Adventures for Good project. Proceeds of this meal go directly back to the remote community.

Day 6 Urubamba/Aguas Calientes

Travel by train through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, escorted by an Inca guide who will share their knowledge to explain attractions and suggest optional activities around Aguas Calientes.

Board a morning train escorted by a local guide. Wind through the spectacular Sacred Valley to the end of the line: the village of Aguas Calientes, a frontier town nestled in the hills beneath Machu Picchu.

Please bear in mind that the town has several amenities, but is also geographically remote meaning services are sometimes more basic than one would assume. As the only option for travellers visiting Machu Picchu, the development of infrastructure has happened quite quickly, much without proper planning, and the focus on providing quality service may not be up to the standards experienced in other parts of the country.

Day 7 Aguas Calientes/Cusco

Enjoy a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco by train, escorted by the guide.

Rise early to take advantage of viewing Machu Picchu in the early morning light.

Later in the afternoon, return by train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy and transfer to Cusco by van, arriving in the evening.

Day 8 Cusco

Depart at any time. Departure transfer included.

Extra time in Cusco is recommended to fully enjoy this popular city. Speak to a sales agent to book post-accommodation and/or return flight to Lima.

Details

Duration: 8 Days

Trip Type: Independent Travel

Travel Style: Classic

Physical Grading: 3 - Average

Service Level: Upgraded

Merchandising: Planeterra Project



Call Us: 01 2311889



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