CUSCO AMAZON TRIP 6 DAYS

At a glance:

• TIMING: 6 days and 5 nights.
• STARTING &
• ENDING POINT: Cusco Airport.
• DEPARTURE
• DATES: Daily Departure group service and private service.
• TYPE OF TOUR: Cultural and History.
• TRANSPORT: Bus, trekking, train and airplane.
• DIFFICULTY: Does involve some narrow trails amongst archaeological site like: Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu, so sturdy footwear is required to help you enjoy it fully.

Highlights:

• Explore the city of Cusco
• full-day tour to Sacred Valley of the Incas
• Explore the Inca ruins of Pisaq and Ollantaytambo
• Visit the local markets.
• Take the train through Urubamba Valley to the town of «Aguas Calientes»
• Enjoy Machu Picchu Tour
• Visit the hot springs in the town of Aguas Calientes.
• Optional climb Huayna Picchu Mountain.
• Explore the Amazon Jungle in the zone of Puerto Maldonado

Incorporated Activities:

• Cusco city.
• Sacred Valley of the Incas.
• Machu Picchu Tour.
• Amazon Jungle Trip.

Short Itinerary for Cusco Amazon Trip

DAY 1:  Arrive to Cusco

Arrival to Cusco at any time; we must know your flight details for the reception and transfer you to the designated hotel.

DAY 2: Sacred Valley Tour

A full-day guided tour through the Sacred Valley. Today we will visit the local market of Pisac and the Inca ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. In the afternoon, we will take the train to the town of «Aguas Calientes».

DAY 3: Machu Picchu

We will explore the stunning Inca citadel of Machu Picchu; includes a two-hour tour and free time to explore along.

DAY 4: Amazon Trip

45-minute fly from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado and in the afternoon visit the Monkey Island.

DAY 5: Amazon Trip

Trek through the Amazon Jungle with an expert local guide.

DAY 6: Return to Cusco

We’ll leave Puerto Maldonado and return to Cusco

Complete Itinerary:

DAY 1: Arrival to Cusco: Explore the city of Cusco

Cusco Amazon Trip begins once you arrive to Cusco at any time; we must know your flight details. We will meet you in the airport and transfer you to the designated hotel where you will receive briefing about Cusco and complete review of your tour itinerary. Enjoy the city (optional city tour in the afternoon – if you arrive before noon).

Cusco is the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city; the city of attracts 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; this lovely Inca and colonial town offers much to the visitor with its nearby ruins, cobble-stoned streets, museums, churches and lively atmosphere.

Our Recommendations:

• Stroll through the Plaza de Armas and surrounding areas, where you can appreciate the work of the Cusqueñian artisan craft stores.
• Grab a bite at the famous Peruvian cuisine restaurants nearby or relax on the park benches of Plaza de Armas and then take a photo there for memories to last during the warm weather in the afternoon, despite the cold nights of Cusco.
• If you like the night around the square you will find many nightclubs and bars filled with tourists and locals who expect to have fun with good music and drinks.

DAY 2: Sacred Valley Tour: Pisac – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Train to the town of Aguas Calientes:

The tour starts at 08:00 a.m; we will pick you up from the hotel and travel toward the Sacred Valley of the Incas; which was an important cradle of food for the Incas. The Sacred Valley is a lush of agricultural region that continues to supply the city of Cusco with much of its production especially corn and vegetables.

We’ll visit the extraordinary Inca ruins of Pisac and the colourful artisan market where you can purchase some handicrafts directly from the producers.

The Sacred Valley tour ends in the picturesque village of Ollantaytambo, we will visit also the Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo that are 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 Spaniards lost a major battle during the conquest.

In the afternoon, we will take the train for two hours through Urubamba Valley until the town of «Aguas Calientes». Accommodation in the hotel .

Our Recommendation:

• We suggest suitable footwear, you will climb stairs with many steps. Bring a small backpack, camera; wear a sunhat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle.
• At Pisac, do not forget to try the delicious “empanadas” a type of bread, and purchase an artisan souvenir/memorabilia.
• In the town of Urubamba enjoy a delicious buffet lunch where we invite you to try the corn of Sacred Valley.
• Visit the thermal baths in the town of Aguas Calientes, this is natural hot springs

DAY 3: Machu Picchu Tour – Cusco:

After early breakfast in the hotel (4:30AM), you’ll need to leave your personal belongings in the storage of the hotel and with a little bag pack be ready. At 5:00am well walk for 5 minutes to the bus station from where we’ll take the bus for 25 minutes up to Machu Picchu. Once we arrive we’ll take advantage of viewing Machu Picchu in the early morning light. This is the best time to view Machu Picchu.

Then, you will have 2 -3 hours of guided tour within Machu Picchu where you’ll visit the Agricultural site, the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Mother Earth, the Quarry, the temple of the Andean cosmology, the Sundial and other interesting places.

When you finish take the pictures and explore it sufficiently you’ll take the bus from Machu Picchu down to the town of Aguas Calientes where you can enjoy your lunch and explore the town; In the afternoon (in between 3:00PM -5:00PM), we’ll return by train to Ollantaytambo Train station from where you’ll be transferred by van to Cusco, arriving in the evening to Cusco.

ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDED WALKS AFTER YOUR TOUR:

• Climbing to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (2 hours, tickets need to be reserve and purchase in advance, extra cost of US$20 pp, please let us know when you book this tour because tickets are limited also we recommend to request a ticket for the 2nd turn at 10:00 a.m.
• Walk to «Intipunku» the Sun Gate where ends the classic Inca Trail (1 hour and 30min).

DAY 4: Amazon Trip: Cusco – Cusco – Puerto Maldonado – Monkey Island:

After breakfast in the hotel, we’ll transfer you to Cusco airport for a 45-minute flight to Puerto Maldonado upon Arrival, our staff will meet you and transfer you to the port where we will get on our motor boat and begin the unforgettable journey through the «Madre de Dios» River. On the way, you will observe the alligators, turtles, herons and other animals.

Arriving to the Amazon Lodge, you will enjoy of the exquisite typical welcome drink and then, you will settle in our comfortable bungalows, afterwards comes lunch. In the afternoon, we will explore the Monkey Island. Located near the  Amazon Jungle Lodge. The monkey island hosts different monkey species: starting from the noisy ones, the Maquisapas, the happy Achuñis, and the very impressive Frailes to the very little and funny “leoncitos” little lions.

Recommendation:

• We suggest suitable footwear, you will climb stairs with many steps. Bring a small backpack, camera; wear a sunhat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle.

DAY 5: Amazon Trip – Explore the Amazon:

After breakfast in the lodge, we’ll start the day with the beautiful bird singing then, we will begin our journey with a hike to the deeps of the woods, special paths with britches to cross the gaps («quebradas»), during the journey, we will observe caimans.

Continuing the jungle hike  we will arrive to «VICTOR LAKE», beautiful crystalline waters, surrounded by huge swamps, giant trees and difernt types of turtles.

Later, we will climb up to our AMAZON OBSERVATORY, from where we will have a panoramic view of the lake; we will observe parrots, guacamayos, toucans, camungo, shanshos, herons, and some other animals like caimans, turtles and if we are lucky enough we could observe one of the most spectacular animals of the jungle the giant nutria. After many hours of walking we will return to the lodge.

DAY 6: Return to Cusco:

Early Breakfast in the lodge and transfer to the airport; the airline is leaving in between 11:00am and 12:00 Am; and return to Cusco.

6-Day Cusco Amazon Trip includes

• TRANSPORTATION: Transfer in/out (airport/hotel/airport), private bus for the Sacred Valley tour, round-trip tourist train expedition class from Ollantaytambo to «Aguas Calientes», bus up and down from «Aguas Calientes» to Machu Picchu, transfer to your hotel, round-trip flight tickets from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado.
• ENTRANCE FEE: For the Sacred Valley Tour and Machu Picchu.
• GUIDE: Licensed bilingual tour guide, local guides for the Jungle trip.
• ACCOMMODATIONS: Room based on double occupancy: 2 nights in Cusco ***Hotel, 1 night in «Aguas Calientes» ***Hotel, 2 nights in the Jungle lodge. If you would like a private room, there is an additional cost of US$30.00 per night.
• OTHERS: Local guide for permanent assistance

The price exclude

• MEALS: Lunch and dinner while you stay in the city of Cusco and the town of «Aguas Calientes» (Machu Picchu) you must consider a budget from $15 to $25 USD for each meal. We will assist you at these issues.
• Airport taxes and tips for the staff.

PRICE OF THE TOUR

• In the following price is included 3-stars category hotel which we consider appropriated and very confortable hotel for Cusco Amazon Trip.
• We have other options based on the hotel, type of train; the options are adapted to all budgets and THE PRICE IS PER PERSON. We gladly will assist you, write or please call Us.

Daily departure

WHAT TO BRING?

For a multi-day trip to Machu Picchu by train you’ll need to carry the following items:

Most travelers prefer to pack a small or medium-size wheeled suitcase, which is an ideal size for the storage capacity of our private vehicles. Regardless of what you bring, keep in mind that you will need to be able to carry your own luggage, handle it at airports, get in and out of your Hotel, and even walk short distances. Generally speaking, we recommend that you travel as little as possible. You will also need a backpack for activities and day trips. In terms of weight, airlines generally allow a maximum of 20kg for checked baggage.

In addition to the items and clothing you always need on a trip, here are some travel-specific packing tips:

ESSENTIAL:

• Closed shoes will help protect your feet from cuts and scrapes when walking in cities as well as in bushes/grasslands, and will also act as a protective barrier in rare cases of bites or stings.
• Sun protection – hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Original Passport, keep it in a dry and safe place while visiting Machu Picchu.
• Extra Cash in Soles, try to have in small coins to buy souvenirs.
• Camera for the good pictures.
• Sunscreen, insect repellent.
• Sunglasses.

RECOMMENDED:

• Electronic and/or hard copies of all important documents, plane tickets, passport, vaccination certificate, etc. and keep printed copies separate from originals. Although not valid, a copy makes it much easier to get replacements if needed.
• Water bottle. We recommend a capacity of at least 1.5 liters. The sale of bottled water contributes to a major environmental problem worldwide. In addition to bottled water, making a 1-liter plastic bottle requires 2 liters of water and 200 ml of oil. Much of it ends up in limited landfills or is released into waterways and natural settings.
• Electrical adapter plug.
• It is important to have a Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes and bandaids.
• Fly spray
• You can use clock/alarm clock or phone for both

OPTIONAL:

•  Earplugs to protect against possible snoring from a roommate
• Phrasebook

VALUABLE ITEMS:

Try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables and use your hotel safe. It’s also a good idea to buy a money belt or pouch that is easy to hide.

LAUNDRY DETERGENT.

Laundry is available in many hotels and cities on this trip, but you may have to wait for a two-night layover to ensure you pick it up on time. While hotel laundry is usually charged per item, laundromats usually charge per kilo, which is usually inexpensive (around $2 per kilo).

ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION

IMPORTANT NOTES OF THE TRIP.

1. Please provide your full name exactly as it appears on your passport at the time of booking (including other names listed on your passport) for Machu Picchu Permits and train tickets. Charges may apply for changes to details within 45 days of departure and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets.
2. A single supplement is available if you prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Talk to your reservation agent for more information.
3. This trip includes a visit to Machu Picchu. According to the visiting regulations of Machu Picchu, all visitors must follow a predetermined route within the site. This route must be followed in one direction and, once the guided tour has started, it is forbidden to leave and re-enter the site. After the guided tour is over, visitors must leave the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not allowed. See the Itinerary for more details.
4. Machu Picchu permits are sold on request only. Once the deposit has been paid and passport details provided, SPT Travel & Tours will attempt to obtain a permit for you.
5. Parts of your trip exceed 2,800 meters / 9,200 feet, where it is common for travelers to experience adverse health effects due to altitude, regardless of age, gender and physical condition. Consult your doctor for professional advice on high altitude travel if you have any medical conditions.
6. Most highland hotels are required to have oxygen cylinders, but you may be asked to pay extra for using oxygen for more than 5-10 minutes at a time.

ARRIVAL IN THE CITY OF CUSCO.

The tour begins in Cusco; You will be met at the airport and transferred in a private vehicle to your reserved hotel, make sure you tell us all your flight details at least 10 days before your trip. Once you arrive to the airport of Cusco, please look for our representative with a Blue SPT Travel & Tours sign.

TOUR’S BRIEFING.

It will take place at your arrival to the hotel. It will be for about half hour where with your guide you’ll review the details of the tour.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE IN YOUR OFFICE?

Yes, During the excursion your main luggage can be stored in our office or in your hotel, both are free of charge. It is very important ta have with you a small backpack for the day excursion where you’ll carry essential things for the day like water, jacket, etc.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

The remaining balance of the tour you’ll pay at the briefing time. We accept only in Cash and you will avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you can pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles). There are many ATMs in the historic center to withdraw money. You can also pay with VISA or PAYPAL online, but you will have to pay a 7% service charge, charged by VISA and PAYPAL. To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you must log in to your PAYPAL account and use our email address: sunrisetrek@gmail.com

HOW CAN I QUALIFY FOR THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?

Under Peruvian law, you must be under the age of 18 at the time of your trek or visit to Machu Picchu (students over the age of 18 require a student ID). For example: If you book a hike at age 17 but turn 18 before taking it, you must have a valid college ID to qualify for the student discount.
College students must provide a copy of their ID card showing a photo, college name, and card expiration date. Cards must be valid for the current academic year only.

• All students from 11 to 17 years old, the discount is US$30.
• For children from 2 to 11 years old, the reduction is 40 USD.
• All students must provide a copy of their passport at the time of booking to qualify for the student discount. Send us a copy to saleso@sunriseperutrek.com

CAN I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER PURCHASING THE TICKETS?

Unfortunately, the answer is NO. Once the tickets have been purchased, the government does not allow any changes, so we cannot change any departure dates after the tickets have been purchased. Tickets are also non-transferable and non-refundable. If you cancel your tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu, the deposit is absolutely non-refundable!

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT?

Yes! You must bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport that you sent us to reserve your entrance to Machu Picchu, train ticket, other tickets and reservations.
If you are renewing your passport or changing your name, feel free to send us your old passport information to secure your clearance, and we can change it when you get your new passport number or update your name for a fee of $25 per person. We need to have a copy of your old and new passport to make the change. Before changing your passport, keep a copy of the old one.
If you do not wish to pay this fee, you will need to bring both passports to Peru with you. You can enter Peru with your new passport, but you will need to show both your old and new passports to enter Machu Picchu or on the train. If you do not have both, you will not be able to enter Machu Picchu or board the train.

VISA FOR PERU.

Citizens of Australia, United States, Great Britain, Canada, Germany, New Zealand and South Africa do not currently require a visa for Peru. For all other nationalities, please reconfirm your visa or entry requirements with the Peruvian consulate in your home country.

ALTITUDE SICKNESS.

If you travel above 2,500m, you can contract altitude sickness, which can be life-threatening and affect anyone, even if they are physically fit. You are at higher risk if you have ever had altitude sickness, if you exercise or drink alcohol before acclimatizing to the altitude, or if you have health problems that affect breathing. Consult your doctor before traveling and get advice specific to you and your situation.
check that your insurance covers emergency evacuation at height and associated medical expenses.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.

Medical treatment can be expensive and not always of high quality in some parts of the country. Make sure you have adequate travel medical insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Parts of your journey exceed 2,800 meters / 9,200 feet, where it is common for travelers to experience adverse health effects due to altitude, regardless of age, gender, and physical condition.

Before your trip:

Some pre-existing medical conditions are known to be severely worsened at high altitude and difficult to treat adequately on land, leading to more serious consequences. It is imperative that you discuss your pre-existing medical condition(s) with your physician. We understand that certain medications are reported to aid in altitude acclimatization. Please discuss these options with your doctor.

During your trip:

Although our Guides have basic first aid training and know the nearest medical facilities, it is very important that you know the cause and effects of travel at altitude, monitor your health and seek assistance accordingly

MEALS NOT INCLUDED:

For this trip, we recommend between 25 and 50 USD per day. How to solve this problem?

Breakfast: If breakfast isn’t included, you can expect to pay $5-$10 at a local coffee shop.

Lunch: If you’re satisfied with a quick grab-and-go snack, you can get away with as little as $5 to $10 for a set menu at a local restaurant or a sandwich and drink at a coffee shop. In contrast, a lunch in a more touristy restaurant can cost between 10 and 15 USD.

Dinner: At dinner time, your chef will usually recommend restaurants where you can safely sample the local delicacies of the area. Expect meals to cost between $12 and $25 for an entree.
These are indicative prices only. If you are on a tight budget, only eat local food and don’t mind having a stomach ache from time to time, you can eat cheaper than this. If you want to taste the best cuisine in the best restaurants, you can expect meals to cost as much as in Western countries.

TIPS.

If you are satisfied with the services provided, a tip is appreciated, but not required. Although this is not common in your country, it is very important for the people who will take care of you during your Tour. It inspires excellent service and is an ingrained feature of the tourism industry in many SPT Travel & Tours destinations. Of course, you are free to tip as you see fit, based on your perception of the quality and length of your visit. Remember that tipping is not mandatory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

COVID-19 ENTRY AND EXIT REQUIREMENTS IN PERU.

• For the latest update on what is required to enter Peru, check your government’s foreign travel advice and visit the following website: https://www.peru.travel/en
  Requirements include an online health declaration, a negative PCR or antigen test performed within 72 hours of arrival, and an additional antigen test performed upon arrival.
• Also make sure you have your travel insurance policy that covers you for travel to and from Peru, as well as medical or COVID-19 related expenses in the country.
  Most air passengers are now required to take a COVID-19 test within 3 days of boarding their return flight. This includes citizens returning to their home country after their trip. Airlines must confirm a negative test result for all passengers before boarding; otherwise boarding will be denied.
• We can make it easy to take a COVID-19 test while you travel. Make sure you have funds available to cover the cost of this test, which will be paid directly at the test site. Your SPT Travel & Tours Guide will provide more details at the group meeting and schedule appointments for any travelers who need to be tested.