peru – custom chambers/stusnick - austin adventures...lunch en route • from the pass, descend...

29
Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick 1 Table of Contents The information found on the following pages will assist you in preparing for your Austin Adventure: Welcome 2 Itinerary ...................................................................................................................................... 3 Arrivals/Departures .................................................................................................................... 8 Getting Physically Ready ........................................................................................................... 15 Suggested Packing List ............................................................................................................. 16 Frequently Asked Questions ...................................................................................................... 18 Adventurer's Club....................................................................................................................... 21 Discounts & Guarantees ............................................................................................................ 22 Sharing Your Trip ....................................................................................................................... 23 Contact Information .................................................................................................................... 26 Austin Adventures P.O. BOX 81025 Billings, MT 59108-1025 800.575.1540 Fax 406.651.9236 www.austinadventures.com

Upload: others

Post on 06-Jul-2020

0 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

1

Table of Contents The information found on the following pages will assist you in preparing for your

Austin Adventure:

Welcome ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 2

Itinerary ...................................................................................................................................... 3

Arrivals/Departures .................................................................................................................... 8

Getting Physically Ready ........................................................................................................... 15

Suggested Packing List ............................................................................................................. 16

Frequently Asked Questions ...................................................................................................... 18

Adventurer's Club ....................................................................................................................... 21

Discounts & Guarantees ............................................................................................................ 22

Sharing Your Trip ....................................................................................................................... 23

Contact Information .................................................................................................................... 26

Austin Adventures

P.O. BOX 81025 Billings, MT 59108-1025

800.575.1540 Fax 406.651.9236

www.austinadventures.com

Page 2: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

2

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

Welcome Thank you for choosing Austin Adventures. We look forward to making this vacation one in which the “toughest part is going home.” This pre-departure package is designed to help you prepare for your vacation. It includes the forms you will need to finalize your reservation and it also answers questions you may have from packing and weather to Day 1 pick-up and post-trip logistics. Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns. Toll free: 800.575.1540 Phone: 406.655.4591 Fax: 406.651.9236 Email: [email protected] Dan Austin, President: 406.671.6067 (cell) Forms To proceed with the processing of your reservation, please be sure that the following forms are completed and returned by fax or mail to our office within 10 business days. 1. Release of Liability Form (pink) 2. Mountain Lodges of Peru forms (white) Balance Due Please pay the balance of your trip in full to Austin Adventures or your travel agent 90 days prior to trip departure. See Booking Details for payment information. Planning Checklist Please refer to the following checklist as you plan for your trip: □ Fax, mail, or email all completed forms to Austin Adventures within 10 business days □ Pay the balance of trip in full at least 90 days prior to the trip departure

□ Purchase travel & cancellation insurance (optional) □ Book pre/post-trip accommodation □ Book airline tickets □ Make pre/post-trip plans (sightseeing, rental car, hotel, restaurant, etc.) □ Give family members or friends copies of your trip itinerary, flight information, and

Austin Adventures contact information

Page 3: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

3

Host Cities: Begin: Cusco, Peru: Airport Code CUZ End: Lima, Peru: Airport Code LIM

Itinerary December 18 | Day 1: Cusco to Salkantay Lodge Early morning pick up at your Cusco hotel by a Mountain Lodges of Peru guide and vehicle • Stop en route to visit the impressive Inca ruins of Tarawasi near the town of Limatambo • Pass through the mountain village of Mollepata and stop for a coffee before ascending a winding mountain track to a place called Marcoccasa • From here we will enjoy our first day’s 3 – 5 hour trek along the Camino Real into the spectacular valley of Soraypampa, stopping for a picnic lunch along the way • After a warm welcome at the Lodge, enjoy an afternoon at leisure, adjusting to the altitude and drinking some coca tea • An evening social hour is followed by dinner • Overnight Salkantay Lodge at 12,690 ft (L, D)

* Note: A pre-trek briefing the night before your morning pick up by MLP will take place at Hotel El Mercado at 7:00 PM.

Option: Guests who do not wish to trek may be transported to the lodge by vehicle.

December 19 | Day 2: A Hike to Humantay Lake Spend your day acclimating to the altitude with a half day hike to Humantay Lake, fed by the hanging glaciers of Mt. Humantay • The trek is optional but the views are amazing, and those adventurous enough can opt for an invigorating dip • This hike is excellent for acclimatization and a first immersion into high- mountain trekking • In the afternoon, relax with a soak in an outdoor Jacuzzi • In the evening, your guides will brief you on gear and your itinerary for the next four days • Breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Lodge • Overnight Salkantay Lodge at 12,690 ft (B, L, D)

Option: Horseback Riding Excursion:

Short Excursion: 2 hours ride around Soraypampa in the afternoon (after hike to glacial lake).

December 20 | Day 3: Crossing the Salkantay Pass This is the big day! • We leave Soraypampa Valley for our continuing trek to Machu Picchu! • Wake up early and hike the Rio Blanco valley, circling Humantay Peak across from the Salkantay • Trek to the pass (15,213 ft) and take in 360-degree views of the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba Range and the towering, glaciated south face of Salkantay • Hot lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your eyes peeled for Andean condors • Dinner at the Lodge • Overnight Wayra Lodge at 12,812 ft (B, L, D)

Option: You may also choose to trade day three’s hike up to Salkantay pass for a horseback ride (entirely or partly). Subject to extra cost.

December 21 | Day 4: Descending into the Cloud Forest Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Huayraccmachay • Begin your trek by hiking downhill above the Salkantay River, through increasingly verdant scenery • Arrive at the Colpa Lodge for a “Pachamanca,” a traditional festive Peruvian meal cooked by layering meat and vegetables with hot stones • Enjoy a well- earned soak in an outdoor Jacuzzi and take in the lush mountain scenery • Spend the afternoon relaxing or exploring the nearby orchid trail • Dinner at the Lodge • Overnight Colpa Lodge at 9,414 ft (B, L, D)

Page 4: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

4

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

December 22 | Day 5: Following the Santa Teresa River Valley Early breakfast before setting off on a trek to the Santa Teresa River Valley • Hike through banana plantations, ‘granadillas,’ and orchards and visit a coffee farm (where some of the best organic coffees in the world are grown!) • Break along the river for a hot picnic lunch • After lunch, we hike one more hour before a private vehicle picks us up to shuttle to the beginning of the Llactapata Inca Trail (30 min) • From the head of the trail, it’s a short climb to the Lucma Lodge, set in an avocado orchard • On the way we visit an organic coffee plantation where we join the owner on a short tour of the farm and learn how coffee is grown, harvested, dried and processed • Overnight Lucma Lodge at 7,003 ft (B, L, D)

December 23 | Day 6: First Views of Machu Picchu from Llactapata Pass Early start and hearty breakfast before tackling the last leg of your trek • Hike two to three hours uphill towards Llactapata pass (8,500 ft), for a distant but spectacular view of Machu Picchu from the southeast (a view most never see) • Explore the recently restored Llactapata Ruins • Lunch at the view point, with more views of Machu Picchu • Begin your final descent to the Aobamba River through lush bamboo forests, orchards and coffee plantations (2-3 hours descent) • Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu are a short, scenic train ride away (approx. 1 hour) • Enjoy your stay at your award-winning hotel • Overnight Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel at 6,232 ft (B, L, D)

December 24 | Day 7: Visit Machu Picchu Sanctuary Early morning wakeup call before ascending to Machu Picchu by bus (30 min) for a private guided tour • Your trip leader will give an introductory 2 hour guided tour of the ruins, after which you have the option of climbing the steep staircase of Huayna Picchu, a steep and vertically quite challenging hike that takes about 2 hours, providing great views of Machu Picchu • Return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and an afternoon train ride in the Vistadome car back to Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours) • From here you will be escorted by private vehicle for your transfer to Cusco (additional 1.5 hours) • Upon arrival in Cusco (approx. 7 or 8:00 pm, you will be dropped off at your hotel • Overnight El Mercado at 11,200 ft (B, L)

December 25 | Day 8: Cusco / Juliaca / Puno Your guide will pick you up from your hotel to transfer you to the Cusco Airport • Fly from Cusco to Juliaca • Upon arrival to Juliaca’s Inca Manco Cápac International Airport, you will be met at the airport by an Austin Adventures representative who will transfer you to your hotel • Spend the day acclimating and resting in and around your hotel • Overnight Libertador Lago Titicaca at 12,507 ft (No meals)

December 26 | Day 9: Puno / Uros Islands / Taquile Island After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll be picked up from the lobby to be transferred to the port • Transport by motorboat stopping at the Uros Islands where you can see how local families utilize the cattail: a plant that grows in the lake that is used for building houses and other items • After, we will visit the small Taquile Island where we will view numerous pre-Inca and Inca ruins and Inca terracing • There is a cooperative shop on the island that sells exceptional woollen goods of very fine quality • You will have the opportunity to buy beautiful handmade weavings and collages depicting life on the islands • After lunch, we will have time to visit the island and then return to Puno • Overnight at Libertador Lago Titicaca at 12,507 ft (B, L)

Page 5: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

5

December 27 | Day 10: Juliaca / Lima After breakfast and depending on your flight time to Lima, transfer to Juliaca´s airport • On the route, you will visit Sillustani, a pre-Incan burial ground on the shores of Lake Umayo • The tombs, which are built above ground in tower-like structures called chullpas, are the vestiges of the Colla people, Aymara who were conquered by the Inca in the 15th century • Fly from Juliaca to Lima • Upon arrival in Lima, you will receive assistance to check in for your international flight home • End of Services (B) ** This trip is operated in partnership with Mountain Lodges of Peru (Days 1 - 7) & Apumayo Expeditions (Days 8 - 10).

*** Trip itineraries are subject to change without notice due to road, trail conditions, weather and other factors outside of our control, for the safety and enjoyment of our guests, as deemed necessary and appropriate by Austin Adventures and our partners.

Activities

Hiking: Moderate to Challenging. This trek covers approximately 32 miles of uneven, rocky terrain. Prior hiking experience is recommended as this is not a novice hike.

Day 1 – Cusco to Salkantay Lodge: 3 – 5 hours, moderate. Day 2 – Humantay Lake: 4 hours, moderate to challenging. Day 3 – Crossing Salkantay Pass: 6 – 8 hours, challenging. Day 4 – Descending into Cloud Forest: 3 – 4 hours, easy to moderate. Day 5 – Following Santa Teresa River Valley: 5 – 6 hours, moderate to challenging (due to distance, not terrain). Day 6 – Llactapata Pass: 4 – 6 hours, moderate to challenging. Day 7 – Visit Machu Picchu: time spent at site varies, easy to challenging. Days 8-10 – Lake Titicaca: These days are spent flying and/or visiting various cultural sights - easy. Optional activities (subject to extra cost): Chakana Inca Cross Excursion, Horseback Riding and Canopy Zipline. Please talk with your travel specialist for additional details. Discovery: Crowned by the towering Andes and tucked between the Amazon and the Pacific, Peru offers a captivating mix of adventure, nature and history. Embedded in every active traveler’s Top Ten List is the great city of the clouds, Machu Picchu. Start and end along the cobblestone streets of Cusco and venture from ruin to ruin across the Salkantay Valley by train and breathtaking footpath to the ancient city of the Inca. Explore the “back way” to get to Machu Picchu, the Salkantay Trail, named after Nevado Salcantay, the highest peak of the Cordillera Vilcabamba, a small mountain range of the Andes. Catch a glimpse of the Andean Condor, a vulture with the largest wingspan of any land bird – 10.5 feet! Delight in the traditional Peruvian dish of Pachamanca: lamb, mutton, pork, chicken or guinea pig, marinated in spices and baked with the aid of hot stones in an earthen oven known as a huatia. Did you know that Machu Picchu is called “The Lost City” because when it was “rediscovered” by Yale explorer Hiram Bingham III in 1911, the jungle had literally swallowed the complex ruins? Even a knife blade can’t be inserted between the precise mortarless joints of the stones used in the building of Machu Picchu, and many of these stones weighed more than 50 tons! Come explore Peru with the experts in adventure travel!

Page 6: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

6

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

Distinctive Accommodations Nights 1 & 2: Salkantay Lodge and Adventure Resort (12,690 ft) The Salkantay Lodge & Adventure Resort, located in the high Andean valley of Soraypampa, sits at 12,690 feet above sea level. In addition to high-quality Peruvian/International cuisine, the Lodge offers an outdoor hot Jacuzzi, traditional sauna, cozy reading rooms, a bar/lounge and 12 well-appointed private double (or twin/triple) rooms with private bathrooms and hot showers.

Night 3: Wayra Lodge (12,812 ft) Wayra Lodge (“Wayra” meaning ‘the place where the wind lives’) sits at an elevation of 12,812 feet in Huayraccmachay. With only six rooms total in the lodge, you’ll feel that you have all the mountains to yourself. Relax in the outdoor Jacuzzi in the central courtyard.

Night 4: Colpa Lodge (9,414 ft) The Colpa Lodge sits at a 9,414-foot elevation in an open promontory at the confluence of three rivers. The outdoor Jacuzzi has prominent views of lush green mountains and a small village nestled in a valley below. Feel free to explore the grounds in search of the magnificent orchid garden.

Night 5: Lucma Lodge (7,003 ft) The Lucma Lodge is set in an avocado orchard and sits at an elevation of 7,003 feet. Here you’ll have time to explore the coffee plantations and see a demonstration of coffee roasting. You may also choose to soak in the outdoor Jacuzzi.

Night 6: Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel (6,693 ft) Stay at Inkaterra luxury Machu Picchu Hotel, your ultimate cloud forest vacation paradise, an intimate 85-cottage luxury hotel in a sprawling Andean style village within a secluded twelve acres of exquisite beauty. Follow stone pathways along the terraced hills, melding with the sacred energy of the mountains. Indulge in Inkaterra’s spa services which use sublime natural essences. A first-class restaurant boasts stunning views of the rushing Vilcanota River.

Night 7: El Mercado - booked by guest (11,152 ft) El Mercado is located in the heart of Cusco. Featuring original and eye-catching interiors and exceptional customer service that starts right at the very beginning of the adventure, in Cusco itself. Mercado is the Spanish word for market, and El Mercado occupies the premises of a former market located only a couple of blocks from Cusco’s main Plaza de Armas.

Nights 8 & 9: Libertador Lago Titicaca (12,507 ft) A stay at Libertador Lake Titicaca, on the private island of Esteves, offers you a privileged position from which to marvel at the richly colored dawn sky or relax at the end of the day with a glass of red wine as you watch the sunset over the lake. The hotel is located at one extreme of Titicaca, in the bay of Puno on a rocky hill surrounded by the extensive reed forest or totorales that dominate this side of the bay. The hotel has a private pier from where boats set sail to the islands of Uros, Taquile or Amantani. Los Uros restaurant offers international and Peruvian dishes, including a range of traditional Andean specialties, where regional products and ingredients are used. And for the perfect end to the day, Taquile Bar opens its doors and offers cocktails and macerated drinks like the coca sour.

Page 7: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

7

Meals The hallmark of an Austin Adventures vacation is our exceptional dining. All meals: breakfasts, lunches, snacks, dinners– as indicated in itinerary – are included. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner). Alcoholic beverages, bottled water, sports drinks and related gratuities are not included in the trip price. On the MLP portion of the itinerary, filtered water stations are available throughout the lodges and along the trail for free & unlimited refilling. Bottled water and soft drinks are available for US$1.50 per bottle and you will be given a light-weight, aluminum sport-bottle for your convenience at the beginning of your trip.

Our Partner - Mountain Lodges of Peru Austin Adventures is proud to offer this trip in conjunction with our partner Mountain Lodges of Peru (MLP). Mountain Lodges of Peru (MLP) offers “Adventure at its finest”: the opportunity to experience the essence of adventure within the realm of revitalizing comforts. But for Mountain Lodges of Peru, a great adventure does not end there: in order for it to be a life-changing experience for their guests, they believe that the experience has to be an adventure on many levels. This is why their proposal goes far beyond comfortable lodges and great treksW it is a unique opportunity to experience ancient history in the land of the Incas, contemporary manifestations of deep-founded culture, the most interesting and exotic variety of flora and fauna, surprises, the determination of local people to progress, new friends and like-minded souls.

Our Partner – Apumayo Expediciones

Austin Adventures is proudly offering this trip in conjunction with Apumayo Expediciones. Apumayo, a local Peruvian company based in the City of Cusco, was established in 1995. Specializing in adventure travel and non-conventional tourism, the company combines tourism with cultural, educational and natural history. Apumayo Expediciones describes itself as a commercial venture with a strong environmental and social agenda, developing and supporting many projects such as river clean ups and supporting Andean community projects. Apumayo looks to host many of their adventure trips with help from the local communities of Peru and relates them with Inca culture and the daily life of the Andean people. Austin Adventures and Apumayo look forward to providing you with top notch customer service in some of Peru’s most beautiful and inspiring places.

Page 8: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

8

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

Arrival and Departure

Arrival to Peru International flights for the Lodge to Lodge adventure terminate in Lima, Peru. It is your responsibility to book a flight ticket from Lima to Cusco. The flight from Lima to Cusco is approximately one hour and is operated by LAN Airlines. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least two nights prior to the trip starting. This will help you acclimate to the high elevation of your Lodge to Lodge trek. (Cusco is located at over 11,000 feet above sea level). On Day 1 of the trek, a Mountain Lodges of Peru guide will pick you up from your hotel starting at 7:00 am. Pre-Trek Briefing and Group Meet & Greet MLP provides a pre-trek briefing in Cusco at their hotel, El Mercado Tunqui Hotel, which consists of the following:

• meet and greet with the group and the guide • detailed itinerary and any last-minute changes • scheduling hotel pickup times • confirmation of specific dietary and medical information of the participants • frequently asked questions • participant gear & equipment verification • specific requests for additional information

Time: 7:00 pm Duration: Approximately 45 minutes Address: Hotel El Mercado, Siete Quartones, Cusco - Peru End of MLP Salkantay Lodge to Lodge Program On day 7, you will take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where a private vehicle will transport you to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco (approximately 7-8 pm) you will be dropped off at Hotel El Mercado. Start of Apumayo Lake Titicaca Extension On Day 8, you will be picked up at El Mercado and transferred to the Cusco Airport for your flight to Juliaca’s Airport. Upon arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to Libertador Lago Titicaca.

End of Apumayo Lake Titicaca Extension On Day 10, you will be picked up at Libertador Lago Titicaca and transferred to Juliaca’s Airport for your flight to Lima. In Lima, you will be met and assisted through check in for your international flight.

Page 9: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

9

Trip Leaders MLP & Apumayo guides are an extension to the Austin Adventures team. Each of your guides wears many hats during the course of your adventure; Naturalist, Guide, Medic, Caretaker, Chef, Entertainer, Trouble-shooter, and Historian. Our guides are passionate about creating a memorable experience for each guest! They learn to navigate unexpected situations with ease, create a comfortable environment for all, and anticipate expectations before you even know what to expect! The guides are our ambassadors in the field, our front line, and they are there to ensure an exceptional vacation tailored to you! We are very proud of our guides; we believe they are what set us apart. We can’t wait for you to meet them!

Gratuity Guidelines We are often asked for advice on the appropriate level of tipping for guides. A tip should reflect your own evaluation of your guide’s performance and the amount you feel comfortable giving. If your expectations were exceeded by the customer service provided by your guide(s), we recommend the following: US$5-10 per day, per guest for the Lead Guide and US$3-5 per day, per guest for the Assistant Guide. For the assistant guide, the gratuity may be given at breakfast, before departure from Lucma Lodge, on Day 6 of the itinerary. This is the last day you will see your Assistant Guide. For the Lead Guide, the gratuity may be given finishing lunch on Day 7 of the itinerary. After lunch, there will be ongoing activities which might not allow for an adequate moment to extend a gratuity to the Lead Guide. Gratuities for lodge staff, mule drivers, and route chefs have already been factored into your trip price. Your tip for your Apumayo guide in Puno is covered in the trip cost.

Included in the Trip Price • Double occupancy rooms with private baths at hotels listed in itinerary. • Meals as listed in itinerary: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner. • Entrance fees to the tours and attractions listed in the program. • Fully trained, bilingual, professional guides and knowledgeable local partners. • Tips for MLP service staff (lodge staff, mule drivers and route chefs) and guide in Puno. • Transportation of personal items on the trail by pack horses/mules and/or porters. • All ground transportation as listed in itinerary. • Water, tea, coffee, soft drinks and fresh juices at the MLP lodges. Only filtered water and

tea are available free of charge at the hotel in Aguas Calientes. • Austin Adventures T-shirt & luggage tags. Not Included in the Trip Price • Pre- and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses. • Cusco lodging on Night 7 (booked by guest). • Tips for lead and assistant guides on MLP portion of itinerary. • Air and land transportation to/from host cities. • Domestic flights (Lima-Cusco; Cusco-Juliaca; Juliaca-Lima). • All types of personal insurance and expenses. • Optional activities - Chakana Inca Cross Exursion, Canopy Zipline, & Horseback Riding. • Massage, spa & laundry services. • Alcoholic beverages, bottled water, and sports drinks. • Some meals (described in itinerary).

Page 10: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

10

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

Fun Facts about Peru At the time of the Spanish conquest, the Inca Empire was the largest in the world. The Inca would not be considered married unless they exchanged sandals. The avocado, potato, and tomato are from Peru. There are almost 4,000 native varieties of Peruvian potatoes. Potatoes have been cultivated in the Andes for 7,000 years.

Peru's corn has the biggest kernels in the world. Mining has remained the basis of Peru’s wealth, although agriculture, fishing, and tourism also contribute.

The literacy rate in Peru is 90.9% which is impressive for a country with so much poverty. Peru achieved independence from Spain on July 28, 1821. The average Peruvian earns the equivalent of $6,000 a year. The national culinary dish is cuy, or roasted guinea pig. It is served whole, with the head and feet intact.

Because of the unsophisticated plumbing in Peru, used toilet paper is not flushed down the toilet but is placed in a separate bin next to the toilet. In Peru, Inca Cola outsells Coca-Cola. The finest cottons in the world, Pima and Tanguis are Peruvian. The Andes Mountains that pass through Peru have: • 50 peaks over 6000 meters (9,685 ft). • 1,769 Glaciers • 12,000 lakes and lagoons of different lengths and depths

You can find 28 different climates in Peru, making it one of the 5 biggest biodiversity hotspots in the world. Peru has 3,500 varieties of orchids, and it is estimated that only 50% of the species have been identified as of today. The pisco sour is Peru’s national drink. It is made using pisco (grape) brandy, lemons, sugar, egg whites, and ice and is finished with Angostura bitters. It takes almost 13 pounds of grapes to make one bottle of pisco. There are 10 million alpacas in the world, and three-quarters of them live in Peru.

Page 11: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

11

Host City Bio: Cusco, Peru The high-flying Andean city of Cusco is the uneasy bearer of many grand titles. It was once the foremost city of the Inca Empire, and is now the undisputed archaeological capital of the Americas, as well as the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Cusco Tourist Ticket If you have a day or two in Cusco, and really want to see the sights, consider purchasing a Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Truistico). The ticket allows you entry to the following places: Cusco Cathedral, Religious Art Museum, Church of San Blas, Regional History Museum, Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Puca Pucara, Tambo Machay, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Pachacutec Monument, and more.

www.cusco-peru.info/cusco_tourist_ticket.htm

ChocoMuseo In ChocoMuseo, you will be able to learn the secrets of chocolate, its production process, and the history of cacao since the Maya, 1000 years ago. They'll also organize workshops for you, where you'll make your own chocolate, right from the cacao beans!

www.chocomuseo.com

Archaeological Museum of Cusco This museum houses a sample of Pre-Hispanic objects: stones, funeral metallurgic, pottery, textile and "keros", Inca architecture, metallurgy, textile, human brain trepanning, body embalming, golden, silver, copper and turquoise idols, etc. There is also an important sample of colonial paintings of the Academy of Cusco among which the Inca and Curacas portraits of XVII century outstand.

www.sacred-destinations.com/peru/cusco-museo-inka.htm

Plaza de Armas (Huacaypata) Dominated by the magnificent Cathedral, this graceful square is considered the heart of Cusco and is characterized by covered walkways, colonial arcades and houses containing numerous shops & restaurants. It is wonderful just to wonder around the Plaza and see what kind of treasures you can find. Sacsayhuaman Overlooking the city of Cusco, this ruin complex of a military fortress is a superb example of Inca architectural skills since it was made of enormous carved limestone boulders (some weighing more than 300 tons each) that were fit together perfectly without the use of mortar.

April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct.

High 67°F 67°F 66°F 66°F 67°F 68°F 69°F

Low 41°F 36°F 32°F 32°F 35°F 39°F 41°F

Average Weather in Cusco, Peru

Page 12: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

12

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

General Information on the Region

Geography and Weather The city of Cusco is at an altitude of 11,200 ft (3,400m) and is surrounded by three mountain ranges. Our trek will take place in the Vilcabamba Range with peaks soaring as high as 20,700 ft (6,280m). Your seven day trek through the mountains will bring you through 9 different bio-zones and reach heights of 15,000 ft (4,572m). For this reason, it is important to be prepared for all kinds of weather, from cold weather 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) to temperatures up to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius). There are two seasons in the Cusco area, the rainy season (summer), from November to April, and the dry season (winter), from May to October. Average daytime temperatures in and around Cusco generally range from 55° - 75° F (13° – 24° C) with evenings cooling down into the 40s and 50s (5° - 10° C). Jackets are necessary at night any time of year in Cusco and surrounding areas. For more information on what to bring, please see our complete Packing List within this Pre Trip Planner.

Electricity Electricity in Peru (and at the lodges) is 220 volts. Some hotels have both 110 and 220 electrical outlets. Most electrical outlets in Peru accept the two-prong, flat plugs used in North America. On the MLP portion of your itinerary, every night from 11pm to 6am the electricity at the lodges is turned off. Although there are night lights in each room, we suggest you bring a small flashlight or headlamp for reading or walking around after 11pm. Communications Telephones, internet, and fax machines are available in the cities. If calling from Peru to other countries, you will need to dial 00 then the country code, plus the area code of city you are calling. To call Peru, the country code is 51 and the Cusco city code is 84. For example, to call the MLP office in Cusco from North America you need to dial: 011-51-84-243636.

Local Currency The unit of currency in Peru is the ¨Sol¨(S/.). One U.S. dollar is roughly equivalent to 3 soles. U. S. dollars are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. There are several money exchange shops, as well as, banks to exchange currency. Cash machines (ATMs) are in all major cities and major airports, and dispense your choice of either U.S. dollars or soles. Screen instructions are in English and Spanish. Many banks/businesses/shop owners will not accept banknotes that are not in good condition—bills that have small tears that have been written on, or are simply well worn. Do not accept bills that are torn or taped, as it will be difficult to pass them on.

Safety / Security While traveling in Peru we recommend you keep your personal luggage with you at all times, and your valuables locked up in the hotel safe. You may also ask your hotel concierge to call you a cab or assist you with making arrangements for tours or other services.

Time Zone Peru is 5 hours behind GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). Peru does not observe daylight savings time.

Page 13: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

13

Medical Information No immunizations are required for entry into Peru, although, if you are planning to go to the jungle regions (Amazon), yellow fever and malaria vaccines are highly recommended. If you are a U.S. citizen, please check the Center for Disease Control for the latest information at www.cdc.gov, as regulations and recommendations change frequently. The CDC recommends vaccines for Hepatitis A and B and typhoid, as well as, booster shots for tetanus, diphtheria, and measles. Please contact your doctor or health-care provider as they can best determine what you will need.

Health Tips While in Peru • Drink only bottled water or water that has been purified—it is not recommend to drink water from the faucet

• Brush teeth with bottled or purified water

• Wash hands frequently or use a hand sanitizer

• Avoid eating food from street vendors or markets

Cross Cultural Tips Remember you are traveling in a foreign country where you are a visitor. You will have a much more enjoyable time if you keep an open mind and do your best to adapt to the culture and customs of the local people. Peruvians are generally friendly and open to hosting tourists. Although English is fast becoming the international language, it should not be assumed that everyone can understand or speak it. If you have difficulty communicating, please ask your guide for assistance. Patience and respect are the necessary ingredients for a successful trip and an enriching experience.

Passport / Entry Requirements Citizens of the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Germany, Austria, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia do not require Visas to enter Peru as tourists – only valid passports (valid for 6 months beyond travel dates). For an up-to-date, country by country listing of passport requirements around the world, go to the ¨Foreign Entry Requirements¨ web page of the U.S. State Department at http://travel.state.gov or visit Zierer Visa Service (ZVS) website www.zvs.com. Tourists must provide evidence of return or onward travel. Foreign entry requirements pertaining to all travelers are subject to change at any time without advance notice.

Tourist Card Upon your arrival to the Lima airport, you will be given a set of forms to fill out to present to the Peruvian customs and immigrations officials. One of these documents is a white “tourist card” that you will need to keep in your passport for the duration of your visit. Attach this tourist card to your passport, as customs officials will ask for it when you depart Peru. You will also need to present this card, along with your passport, to all hotels and at the Salkantay Lodge (the 1st lodge).

Page 14: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

14

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

Safety Your guides really know their stuff and are looking forward to leading you on your adventure. Our number one goal is to keep everyone safe! Please listen to all the instructions given to you from your guides. Here are just a few tips to get you into the safety frame of mind!

Safe Hiking Before each hike, your guides will provide an overview of the trail, hiking etiquette and safety concerns. As you hike, please keep the following in mind:

� Drink only filtered water � Stay on the marked trail � Carry out all garbage � Don’t wander too far ahead or lag too far behind – try to stay together as a group � Keep fifty yards from water sources to use the facilities � Respect the wildlife -we are visiting their home � If you are in discomfort (i.e., headache, nausea, blisters or other conditions), stop and

notify your guides

Medical Emergencies In cases of emergencies or medical problems your guides follow a detailed medical protocol. All guides have a “wilderness first aid certification,” and carry a full first aid kit, portable oxygen, and radios with them at all times. MLP has their own company doctor who is always available by telephone for any medical assistance. . There is additional basic medical equipment at all lodges including hyperbaric chambers at your first and second lodges. For minor medical attention that cannot be taken care of at the lodges but which requires special medical attention, the nearest medical centers, in the worst case, are one-day distance by horse or mule. MLP also works with a medical helicopter rescue operation for emergencies

Page 15: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

15

Getting Physically Ready Travelers can feel the effects of higher altitudes as low as 6,000 feet above sea level. They differ in their tolerance for high altitude conditions and how their bodies react to the changes in air pressure and oxygen level. Therefore, we encourage our guests to undergo trek preparation through regular cardio vascular exercise, even if conducted at low elevation, and stick to a healthy, balanced diet prior to the trip.

Starting Out With any fitness program, it is suggested that you consult your physician or personal trainer. Keep your activities safe and simple, and structure them to suit your needs, fitness levels, goals and lifestyle. This is an active vacation. The best type of training is highly aerobic activities. You need to start out slow and short if you have not trained before, and work your way up to an ideal fitness goal.

Frequency Eventually work your way up to doing one type of exercise 3-5 days a week for 30 minutes to one hour at 70-85% of your maximum heart rate. Your maximum heart rate can be estimated by subtracting your age from 220. While doing this type of exercise, you can throw in one minute intervals of higher intensity activity in order to push your limits. Remember to stretch before and after your workout, holding each stretch for thirty seconds.

Types of Activities All types of aerobic activity will be of benefit, especially those involving climbing hills or stairs. Most importantly, choose activities you like. If you need motivation, perhaps join a class or workout with a friend. Here are some suggestions: ` Walking ` Swimming ` Running ` Pilates or yoga ` Cycling ` Fitness class (i.e. spinning class)

Preparing for Hiking

We hike across varied terrain, so you will want to vary your workouts accordingly. For an indoor program, the StairMaster machine is ideal. If you prefer walking outside, choose routes and trails that offer flat and hilly sections. We recommend carrying your daypack and wearing hiking shoes during some workouts to get used to them. We also recommend training with a friend, family member, or significant other – it makes preparing for your hike more fun! You don’t necessarily have to be out in the woods to be “hiking.” Hike around your neighborhood, a nearby park, or to your local ice cream shop! Start slow and build up your training gradually, increasing your distance and exertion.

The Trek Itself The itinerary is designed to allow everyone to hike at their own speed and take breaks whenever needed. This is in essence what leads to a successful and enjoyable trek.

Page 16: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

16

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

Suggested Packing List

At Austin Adventures we believe in packing for all types of weather and our packing list reflects this. We encourage you to consult the checklist below. Hiking � Hiking shorts � Hiking pants (or combination of zip off pants) � T-shirts (capilene or polypropylene shirts for layering) � Breathable, lightweight top layers � Windproof fleece (medium to heavyweight) pullover or sweater � Cold-weather jacket � Set of quality raingear (check weather.com for a 10 day forecast prior to trip) � Windproof or wool gloves � Wool stocking cap � Visor/baseball cap or other hat for sun protection � Trekking poles (MLP provides quality wooden walking sticks) Footwear � Lightweight socks � Hiking socks � Broken-in, comfortable hiking boots (waterproof recommended) Dinner Attire � Casual outfits (mix and match) � Comfortable lodge shoes / flip flops Extras � Backpack (for hiking and storing extra items) � Refillable water bottle / CamelBak � Headlamp / Small flashlight � Pair sunglasses with UV protection � Sunscreen with a minimum of SPF-15 � Lid latch for your hat when the wind blows � Lip balm with sunscreen � Insect repellent � Swimsuit � Toiletry kit � Camera/video camera, extra batteries and/or chargers � Lightweight small binoculars � Travel Woolite; for washing small items � Passport and travel documents

Page 17: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

17

Baggage Specifications for MLP Program

• Please, no hard suitcases or wheeled bags. Soft duffel bags and/or backpacks (“soft”

luggage) are recommended.

• MLP provides a limited number of hair-dryers at each lodge, due to limited energy supply and environmental concerns.

• Shampoo, conditioners and bath gel are provided at each lodge.

• Bathrooms are equipped with drying lines.

• Any additional clothing and luggage that you will not be needing on the trek can be stored at most hotels in Cusco.

• If you do not have an appropriate sized duffel bag, MLP can provide a duffel bag on loan at the pre-trek briefing (the night before departure from Cusco). Please return it to your trip leader after the trek.

• Peru Rail, the company that operates the trains from Aguas Calientes to Cusco, has a weight limit for all luggage on the trains, which is:

◊ 1 backpack that weighs no more than 11 lbs or 5 kg per traveler AND

◊ 1 duffle bag that weighs no more than 22 lbs or 10 kg per traveler

• For luggage over the weight limit, Peru Rail will charge guests directly at the train station in Aguas Calientes. (Rate: US$0.82 per pound extra or US$1.80 per kg extra).

.

Page 18: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

18

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Peru a safe destination? A. We consider Peru a safe destination. While traveling, we recommend you keep your per-sonal luggage with you, your guide, or your driver at all times.

Q: What is the weight limit for luggage/clothing/equipment that each traveler can take on the trek? A: The weight limit for the trek is 15 kg/35 lbs per guest, as this is the maximum weight that mules and porters can carry. It is also important to note that “hard” luggage poses a problem; soft, “duffel-bag” type luggage is recommended.

Q: How is luggage transported from lodge to lodge? Is it with us at all times? A: Guests should carry a day-pack with them with everything they will need for the day. Mules and porters carrying the luggage will not walk with the group. Your luggage will meet you upon arrival at each lodge.

Q: What is the weather like on the Salkantay trek during the year? A: Weather in the region is extremely variable and you should pack for a variety of conditions. In addition, our trek passes through 12 bio-zones ranging from high altitude alpine conditions to high jungle.

Q: How many guides will be with the group on the trek? A: We work with one guide for groups up to 8 travelers. For groups of 9 to 14 we have an as-sistant guide. However, the cooks and the horsemen know the area and the trek very well and are able to assist the guides at all times; even in cases of emergency evacuation. All MLP guides have “Wilderness First Aid Certification.”

Q: What kind of emergency procedures are in place if guests injure them-selves in a way that disables them from continuing the trek (i.e. guest falls and breaks a leg)? What is the nearest hospital and how can they get there? A: In cases of emergencies or medical problems we follow a detailed medical protocol. All our guides have a “wilderness first aid certification,” and carry a full first aid kit, portable oxygen, and radios with them at all times. We have our own company doctor who is always available by telephone for any medical assistance. There is additional basic medical equipment at all lodges including hyperbaric chambers at your first and second lodges. For minor medical at-tention that cannot be taken care of at the lodges but which requires special medical attention, the nearest medical centers, in the worst case, are one-day distance by horse or mule. We also work with a medical helicopter rescue operation for emergencies.

Q: How do I adjust to the altitude? A: Gradual exposure to higher elevations and time are the best ways to acclimatize. Drink plenty of water, eat lightly and avoid alcoholic beverages for the first day or two. Many travel-ers find that drinking coca tea is also effective.

Q. What is the currency of Peru? A: The Nuevo Sol is the currency of Peru. It is subdivided into 100 cents, called céntimos in Spanish. The currency code is PEN. It is most commonly referred to just as Sol.

Page 19: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

19

Q. Are ATM machines available? A. Yes. There are ATM machines in the main cities. We recommend using the ones located inside hotels, stores, restaurants, or banks. Consult with your guide for safety recommendations on ATM’s or exchanging money.

Q: Do clients carry their lunch food in their daypacks? A: On day 1, a box lunch will be carried for you to our lunch spot. On days 3, 5, and 6 which call for a picnic lunch en route, lunch will be prepared fresh on-site by the cooks and will consist of hot soup, gourmet sandwiches or a hot lunch, snacks and salads. Additionally, guests will be handed a “snack-pack” to carry in their day packs with dry fruits, peanuts, chocolates, and fresh fruits.

Q: What is the electrical current found at the lodges if a guest wants to use their own electrical appliances? A: The lodges have an electrical current of 220 volts. If guests have electrical appliances that work with 110 volts, they should bring their own adaptors since there is a limited supply of these in lodges for their use. Camera and phone chargers can be used at the lodges without adapters.

Q: What is the terrain like? How challenging is it? A: The trek is rated as moderate to challenging and covers approximately 32 miles on uneven, rocky terrain. Day 3 is the most challenging with an elevation gain of 3,000 feet in a span of 3 miles to reach a maximum altitude of 15,000 feet. Prior hiking experience is recommended as this is not a novice hike.

Q. Do I need a visa to travel to Peru? A: Travelers with a US or Canadian passport do not need a visa to enter Peru for up to 90 days for tourism or business. If you’re traveling with a passport from another country, visit projectvisa.com for more information.

Q. What language is spoken in Peru? A: Spanish is the official language of Peru. Two other prominent languages of the country are Aymara and Quechua. Por favor (please) and gracias (thank you) will get you a long way! In tourist towns such as Cusco, English is fairly widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, etc.

Q. Do I need any shots? A: No vaccinations are required for travel to Peru from the USA. If you are planning to go to the jungle regions (Amazon), yellow fever and malaria vaccines are highly recommended. If you are a U.S. citizen, please check the Center for Disease Control for the latest information at www.cdc.gov, as regulations and recommendations change frequently.

Q. What type of food is typical in Peru? A. Staple foods in the highlands include potatoes, corn, rice, and meat dishes, often with a spicy sauce. In jungle areas, fresh fruits, fried plantains, and other vegetables are also common. Though vegetarians can be easily accommodated in all areas, options typically leave out the meat rather than adding vegetarian mainstays such as tofu, beans, or nuts.

Page 20: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

20

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

Company-Wide Sustainability Vision Policy

As a leader in the active travel industry, Austin Adventures is committed to becoming a leader in sustainable tourism development. While this is an ongoing process that takes commitment from our staff, guides, and guests, we recognize that every little effort matters to work toward preserving our planet. Here are some of the ways Austin Adventures works to meet these goals:

• We were one of the founders of Wheels of Change, a nonprofit company that ships used

bicycles to Africa. These bicycles are used to start bicycle shops that refurbish and sell them, provide ongoing repair services, and use profits to support local welfare initiatives like feeding orphans and clothing schemes. The mission of WOC is to empower African communities with sustainable enterprise.

www.wocinternational.org

• We partnered with Sustainable Travel International (STI) to implement sustainable practices. We continually strive to improve environmental performance in reducing company related impacts within our office and field operations, ensuring that our services create the lowest possible impact on the environment.

www.sustainabletravel.com

• We practice the “Leave No Trace” method of travel. Leave No Trace is a national and international program designed to assist outdoor enthusiasts with their decisions about

how to reduce their impacts when they hike, camp, picnic, snowshoe, run, bike, hunt, paddle, ride horses, fish, ski or climb. The program strives to educate all those who enjoy the outdoors about the nature of their recreational impacts as well as techniques to prevent and minimize such impacts.

www.lnt.org

• We are members of the Adventure Travel Trade Association which serves more than 1,000

members in 100 countries worldwide. The ATTA is a privately held, for-profit industry trade group that serves to network, educate, professionalize and promote the adventure travel industry. The travel and tourism industry is the world’s largest commercial services sector, employing 1 in every 11 people on Earth. The ATTA serves its members by advancing responsible and sustainable adventure travel practices.

www.adventuretravel.biz

• We also support environmental conservation and community development projects in the

destinations we travel to. As well as encouraging the participation of guests, suppliers, and local communities in our chosen projects.

Page 21: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

21

Adventurer’s Club

Welcome to the Club Whether a new or seasoned traveler with Austin Adventures, you’re now a member of AA’s Adventurer’s Club! The goal of the Adventurer’s Club is to promote a community of fellow travelers who love the great outdoors and who enjoy being active, exposing themselves to new experiences and most of all, having fun. We rely on our Alumni for everything from feedback and word of mouth to ideas on what far-flung destinations to expand our roster to next. Our Adventurer’s Club program is our way of saying “thanks!” to our best ambassadors.

Adventurer’s Club Advantages include:

• A subscription to our newsletter highlighting upcoming specials, new destinations, the whereabouts of your favorite guides, interviews with fellow travelers about recent trips, etc.

• Alumni-only concierge services. Our very own Carol Austin will be available 7 days a week to answer questions, handle special needs, and assist in securing pre- and post-trip accommodations, etc. [email protected]

• Special gifts. From fleece vests to binoculars, we like to surprise our Alumni with customized gifts as special thanks for their loyalty, support and referrals. This is all part of the “wow” factor you have come to expect from AA!

Referral Reward Program Refer a friend to Austin Adventures and get rewarded! If your friend travels with us, you’ll receive a $150 credit and your friend will receive a $100 credit. Simply call or email us with your friend’s name and address to get the ball rolling.

Austin Adventures Online For everything you need to know about Austin Adventures, including detailed trip itineraries, travel tips and information on the region, www.austinadventures.com is the place to go!

• Read the latest Adventure News

• Stay informed – sign up for the AA Newsletter

• Order catalogs for yourself and friends

• Access detailed trip itineraries for all our adventures

• Make a trip reservation or request a custom trip proposal

• Track us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, read and comment on our blog and share your trip pictures and videos

• Learn about our guides, accommodations, and favorite recipes

Page 22: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

22

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

Discounts and Guarantees

Price Guarantee Prices are guaranteed through December 31, 2018.

Age and Pricing on Family Adventures Family Adventures are suitable for children seven years old and up (six years and older for our Costa Rica and Yellowstone Family Adventures). Children who share a room with one or more adults receive reduced rates. The minimum age on our non-family designated adult and teen adventures is sixteen years old.

Room Occupancy, Single Supplements, and Shared Room Assignments All trip prices are based on double occupancy. Single rooms are available for an additional charge, referred to as a “single supplement.” If you’re traveling alone and wish to share a room, make the request at the time of booking. Austin Adventures will attempt to find a suitable roommate for you. If you book 90 days before the trip and we cannot find you a suitable roommate, we will take care of the single supplement. *some restrictions may apply

Custom Trips Maybe your vacation schedule doesn’t fit ours. Perhaps you’d prefer a slightly different itinerary or level of luxury and activity. A Custom Adventure is the perfect answer. You pick the date and destination. Brief us on the size of your group, what activities you want and just how you like to relax and unwind. Our staff of experts will help create a tailor-made vacation that’s just right for you and your group.

Book 10, You Go Free Traveling with a group of family or friends always makes for a memorable vacation. If you book 10 or more travelers in your group on one of our scheduled departures, you get to travel free!

Let’s Do It Again Reward Program Receive 10% off your next Austin Adventure when you book your trip within 30 days of returning home. Simply pay your deposit with a credit card and your final balance by check.

Our Satisfaction Guarantee Exceeding your expectations is our number one priority. In the unlikely event that you are dissatisfied with something during your trip, immediately notify your guide(s). If he or she is unable to resolve the issue, call our main office and give us the details of the problem, and a chance to correct it. We will do our best to find a resolution. If we are unable to do so during your trip, we will work with you upon your return home to arrive at a fair and equitable solution, including up to a full refund.

Page 23: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

23

Sharing Your Trip

Austin Adventures

Become a fan of AA on Facebook and experience an adventurer's paradise! Travel news, contests, photos, videos, adventure stories and a great way to meet other AA Adventurers.

@AustnAdventures

Follow our tweets and be the first to hear about the latest in travel news!

@austinadv

Post photos to Instagram by taking a picture or video of your latest adventure, choosing a filter to transform its look and feel, then posting it to Instagram – it’s that easy! You can even share to Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr and more!

Austin Adventures

Add us to your professional network to learn and share the latest AA news, inspiration and insights you need to stay in touch and discover new opportunities.

@austinadv

Share and discover your adventures with friends, family, and AA Pinterest. Find recipes, travel

tips, photos and more!

www.austinadventures.com

Check out the latest with Austin Adventures’ blog page. You’ll have access to endless stories, trip reviews, and “been there, done that” information from travel professionals and guests alike! We encourage you to join the conversation! There is nothing we love more than when guests share their trip experiences with us, whether on our social media sites or sharing your own blog. If you have any questions about sharing your AA experience or would like to submit photos and stories to us, please contact [email protected].

Page 24: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

24

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

Travel Protection Plan

If you have purchased or are deciding on purchasing travel insurance with us, we have included a pamphlet with information on the travel insurance that we recommend. Austin Adventures offers our guests a Travel Protection Plan that covers trip cancellation for medical reasons, travel delays, medical expenses, accidental death, lost baggage and medical evacuation. Please call and speak with TripMate Inc. at 800.888.7292 plan #F423S if you have specific coverage questions. Because so many of our guests purchase this plan, as a convenience, the cost is automatically added to your invoice (If you have declined the insurance at the time of booking the cost will not be added to your invoice). You will have the option to decline the insurance before final payment is processed. Coverage is effective on the day your Travel Protection Plan payment is received by our office. If you choose to decline our travel protection plan, simply deduct its cost from the trip invoice total at time of final payment and send the signed insurance waiver back to us. Please note that we highly recommend that you consider purchasing this travel protection plan. To ensure the most comprehensive coverage, we recommend purchasing your travel protection plan no longer than 14 days after booking your Austin Adventures Tour. IMPORTANT: The policy exclusion for Pre-Existing Conditions will be waived provided:

Your premium is paid within 14 days of initial trip deposit. If you are booking within 90 days of your trip leaving and final payment is due, then you must make the decision to purchase trip insurance at this time.

To review our insurance coverage online and for answers to frequently asked questions, please visit www.tripmate.com/wpF423S.

MedjetAssist – Medical Evacuation Membership Program MedjetAssist provides a worldwide pre-paid, hospital of choice medical evacuation membership program for an annual or short-term membership fee. Services are available to members 24 hours a day, 7 days a week utilizing a fleet of state-of-the-art medically equipped aircraft configured as mobile intensive care units, staffed with physicians, nurses, and support personnel. For information, consult the enclosed pamphlet, call 800.963.3538, or go online to: www.medjetassist.com

Medical Insurance We strongly recommend that you consult your current medical insurance policy for coverage outside of the United States and purchase additional coverage if needed or deemed necessary.

Page 25: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

25

Booking & Cancellation Policies

Deposits – A nonrefundable $750 per guest deposit at time of booking is required on this adventure. Some custom programs may require additional deposits, your Adventure Consultant will advise at time of booking. Full payment is required at the time of booking if your trip departs within 90 days. We accept most major credit cards and personal checks (U.S. funds made payable to Austin Adventures). Please do not send cash. Balance Due – Payment in full is due 90 days prior to trip departure. Balances may be paid by check or credit card. We reserve the right to cancel your reservation if full payment is not received by the due date. All required documents and forms are due 60 days prior to departure. Cancellations and Refunds – The following cancellation policies and fees apply: ***As with deposits on some international and custom programs, refund schedule may vary. Speak with your Adventure Consultant for details.

• Cancellation 60 days or more before trip departure – Full trip payment refunded less nonrefundable $750 per person deposit

• Cancellation 45-59 days before trip departure – 50% of the trip payment is refunded

• Cancellation 0-44 days before trip departure – No refund is given

Cancellation of a Trip by AA – While Austin Adventures will make every attempt to operate a trip once confirmed; we do reserve the right to cancel a trip at any time due to insufficient bookings and/or reasons beyond our control that might create unsafe or undesirable travel conditions for the participant. In such case, a full and immediate refund will be issued. However, the financial liability of Austin Adventures shall be limited to the amount paid to Austin Adventures for the land tour only and shall not be extended to cover any other associated travel costs incurred (e.g. nonrefundable air tickets, visa fees if applicable, clothing, equipment, miscellaneous transportation costs, medical expenses, travel insurance premiums, etc). Unused Services and Changes – No partial refunds will be given for unused hotel rooms, meals, activities, events, tours, or trip arrangements for any reason whatsoever. Land cost is quoted as a package and credits are not given for services not used. *Trip itineraries are subject to change without notice due to road, weather, and other conditions, as deemed necessary by Austin Adventures.

Page 26: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

26

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

Accommodations Contact Information

Please find below a list of phone numbers to take with you as you travel to Peru.

MLP-Cusco Office (Mon-Fri: 9am-6pm) - DAYS 1 - 7 Phone: (+51) 084.24.36.36 Toll Free: US: 1.877.491.5261 Brazil: 0.800.891.5372 Europe: +44.800.520.0302

Peru Emergency Phone & Email 24 hrs If there is an emergency while you are traveling to Cusco (illness, travel delays, or anything that will impede you from joining the trek), please contact Mountain Lodges of Peru at the following number for immediate assistance: Phone: (+51) 979 38 12 63 Email: [email protected] Each lodge has one telephone at the front desk and internet access—we ask that your friends and family contact you by email while on the trek for all non-emergency matters.

Apumayo Expeditions - DAYS 8 - 10 Phone: (+51) 84 24 6018 Emergency: (+51) 9 84 76 6334 Emergency 2: (+51) 9 41 70 1275

Austin Adventures: Toll Free: 800.575.1540 Phone: 406.655.4591 Fax: 406.651.9236

Please keep this card with you in case of emergency.

Page 27: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your

Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick

27

Page 28: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your
Page 29: Peru – Custom Chambers/Stusnick - Austin Adventures...lunch en route • From the pass, descend toward Huayraccmachay and the Wayra Lodge, your home for the evening, keeping your