PERU A FIELD COURSE (Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve)

LENGTH: 14 Days/13 Nights or 7 Days/6 Nights

FIXED DEPARTURE DATES: Independent Participants and Groups can begin our Peru A Field Course any day of the year, based on availability. Please contact Rainforest and Reef by e-mail: info@rainforestandreef.org or call toll-free: 1.877.255.3721.

*Other dates for individuals, families and groups, including WINTER INTERIM BREAK and SPRING BREAK, available upon request.

*Our standard PERU A FIELD COURSE itinerary can be modified in content and length for SPECIAL INTERESTS and NEEDS.

*Affordable extensions to CUZCO and the LOST CITY of the INCAS-MACHU PICCHU; LAKE TITICACA are available to individuals and groups before or after our PERU A FIELD COURSE. Description, itineraries and prices are included below.

*Other extensions available upon request include WHITE-WATER RAFTING on the URUBAMBA RIVER; PARTIAL and COMPLETE INCA TRAIL HIKES; INTI RAYMI FESTIVAL; CHOQUEQUIRAU HIKE; NAZCA LINES; PARACAS NATIONAL RESERVE (BALLESTAS ISLANDS); AREQUIPA and COLCA CANYON; 4, 5 and 8 DAY CRUISES to the GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS in ECUADOR. Please contact Rainforest and Reef for details and pricing by e-mail: info@rainforestandreef.org or call toll-free: 1.877.255.3721.

*FIELD COURSES for those with SPECIAL INTERESTS, such as BIRDING and GARDEN GROUPS are available upon request. Sample itineraries can be seen at http://www.birdingtours.org (being updated), http://www.gardentours.org (being updated) and also http://www.rainforestandreef.org. Please contact Rainforest and Reef for details and pricing by e-mail: info@rainforestandreef.org or call toll-free: 1.877.255.3721.

*SPANISH IMMERSION PROGRAMS for individuals/groups are also available in Cuzco, Peru. A sample itinerary can be seen at http://www.iwanttolearnspanish.org (being updated) and also http://www.rainforestandreef.org. SPANISH IMMERSION is also available in the rainforest out of Iquitos. Please contact Rainforest and Reef for details and pricing by e-mail: info@rainforestandreef.org or call toll-free: 1.877.255.3721.

FIELD COURSE COST:

7 Days/6 Nights: 795.00USD per person. Ba sed on a minimum of 10 full-paying participants. One Group Leader FREE for the ground portion of our PERU A FIELD COURSE with 10 full-paying participants. Cost is based on triple and quadruple occupancy. Double and single occupancy available upon request, usually at an extra cost. Extra days are 100.00USD per person/day.

14 Days/13 Nights: 1295.00USD per person. Based on a minimum of 10 full-paying participants. One Group Leader FREE for the ground portion of our PERU A FIELD COURSE with 10 full-paying participants. Cost is based on triple and quadruple occupancy. Double and single occupancy available upon request, usually at an extra cost. Extra days are 100.00USD per person/day.

Note: For individuals, families or groups of less than 10 full-paying participants, please contact Rainforest and Reef for pricing by e-mail: info@rainforestandreef.org or call toll-free: 1.877.255.3721.

Includes: All INSTRUCTION and BI-LINGUAL GUIDE SERVICES; all MEALS and LODGING as stated in the itinerary; all GROUND and WATER TRANSPORTATION between IQUITOS, PERU and the TAHUAYO LODGE; all GROUND and WATER TRANSPORTATION while at the TAHUAYO LODGE; all ENTRANCE FEES to NATIONAL PARKS and OTHER SITES.

Does Not Include: ROUND-TRIP INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE to Peru; Round-trip DOMESTIC AIRFARE Lima-Iquitos-Lima, ~275.00USD per person (schedules and prices are subject to change); DOMESTIC AIRPORT DEPARTURE TAX (10.00US per person/flight); GRATUITIES and PERSONAL ITEMS.

Note: All PERU A FIELD COURSE participants must fly to Lima, Peru first and then to Iquitos, Peru. There are no direct International flights to Iquitos at the present. Depending on your International flight arrival and departure times, overnights in Lima and/or Iquitos may be required prior to and/or after our PERU A FIELD COURSE. Hotel reservations and transfers will be arranged through Rainforest and Reef and are not included in the PERU A FIELD COURSE cost.

INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE: Rainforest and Reef uses consolidators/wholesalers for all of our GROUP and INDIVIDUAL airfares. We are therefore able to offer the LOWEST RATES available. Please contact Rainforest and Reef for details and pricing by e-mail: info@rainforestandreef.org or call toll-free: 1.877.255.3721.

INFORMATION about the TAMSHIYACU-TAHUAYO RESERVE

The Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Biological Reserve is located in Loreto Province, 80 miles southeast of Iquitos, Peru. It is a region unequaled in biological wealth, as the 800,000 acre Reserve contains 15 species of primates, greatest number of any South American protected area and possibly the world. Igapó, varzea and terra firme lowland forest types are found in close proximity and this plays a major role in producing the extremely high biodiversity of the region. Aside from the large number of primate species found here, other animals include jaguar, margay, ocelot, tapir, giant anteater, peccary, brocket deer, paca, agouti, manatee, pink river dolphin, giant river otter, paiche (Arapaima gigas….the world's largest freshwater fish) and over 700 species of birds, including the harpy eagle. The rare bush dog has also been sighted. The Amazon River flood-plain and numerous oxbow lakes dominate the west side of the Reserve. These lakes are home to large numbers of fish and bird species and are very important to the indigenous people of this region. Aquarium fish, such as oscars, angel fish, tetras and pirañha are common. An innovative and successful conservation project has been implemented in the buffer zone surrounding the Reserve. Here, extension personnel working closely with local villagers have developed a sustainable management plan involving native natural resources. As a result, local customs and traditions are being maintained without damaging forest and animal populations.

ITINERARY: The itinerary while staying at the Tahuayo Lodge is extremely flexible. The itinerary below is only a partial sampling of the activities available to our PERU A FIELD COURSE participants. The typical Field Course Participant to Naturalist Guide ratio is ~5:1. See our list of possible activities at the Tahuayo Lodge below, many are not be included in the following itinerary.

MEAL CODES: B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner

Note: On the MEDICAL INFORMATION FORM that you will be receiving shortly after registration, please make us aware of any special meal requests and/or dietary restrictions….vegan, vegetarian, etc., that you or members of your group may have. We will be pleased to fulfill your requests/needs.

DAY 1 ARRIVAL IQUITOS, PERU-AMAZON and TAHUAYO RIVER BOAT TRIP to the TAHUAYO LODGE-PERU A FIELD COURSE ORIENTATION-MOON-LIGHT CRUISE on the TAHUAYO RIVER. Following your arrival in Iquitos, gateway to the western Amazon, your group will be greeted by our Peru A Field Course Staff. We will then travel by boat up the Amazon and Tahuayo Rivers to the Tahuayo Lodge complex (6 hours). Following dinner, there will be a general orientation session to our Peru A Field Course. This evening, our group will take a moon-light cruise on the Tahuayo River. Here, we will listen for and attempt to observe caiman along the River’s edge and listen/look for nocturnal birds, including nightjars, spectacled owls and boat-billed herons. Overnight Tahuayo Lodge. L D

DAY 2 TAMSHIYACU-TAHUAYO RESERVE-CHARRO LAKE. After breakfast, we will depart on our first hike along a trail behind the Lodge. Here, we often view at very close range, pygmy marmosets….great specimens for photographers. As we make our way through varzea and flooded forest habitats many interesting plants will be seen, such as heliconia, giant kapok trees and the parasitic "strangler fig". Following lunch, our group will travel by boat to Charro Lake, where pink freshwater dolphins are commonly seen. We will use a hydrophone to listen for sounds made by these aquatic mammals. Also, be on the lookout for a great variety of bird species, including the common egret, green ibis, yellow-headed caracara and chestnut-eared aricari. In the late afternoon, we will return to Tahuayo Lodge for dinner and overnight. B L D

DAY 3 PRE-DAWN CRUISE on the TAHUAYO RIVER-BLANCO RIVER-HIKE in TERRA FIRME RAINFOREST. Before sunrise today, we will travel by boat along the Tahuayo River. As we float with the current and dawn breaks, many different kinds of birds and other forms of wildlife can be observed in trees near the river’s edge, as they bask in the early morning sunlight. Following breakfast at the Lodge, participants will travel by boat to the Blanco River, a tributary of the Tahuayo and then on to a trail where we will disembark and hike into terra firme rainforest. This will be a full day hike, including lunch in the rainforest. We will be on the lookout for several species of primates, anteaters, peccaries and forest-birds, such as the cotinga and trumpeter. Participants will also pass by a small oxbow lake inhabited by electric eels. In the late afternoon, our group will return to the Tahuayo Lodge for dinner and overnight. B L D

DAY 4 CAIMAN LAKE CANOE TRIP-RAINFOREST WILDLIFE OBSERVATION. After breakfast, we will travel by canoe to Caiman Lake and observe the very unusual and primitive hoatzin bird. The young have claws on their wings that they use for climbing. As we canoe close to shore, numerous crocodile nests will come into view. Following lunch at the Lodge, our group will again travel down the Tahuayo by boat, to observe sloths, several species of monkeys, giant river otters and birds such as the spectacular scarlet macaw. After dinner, participants will return to Caiman Lake and observe crocodiles from a distance. Dinner and overnight Tahuayo
Lodge. B L D

DAY 5 VISIT JUNGLE COMMUNITY of SANTA ANA-TOUR PINEAPPLE and MANIOC PLANTATIONS-GIANT LILYPADS of BARBASCO LAKE. Following an early breakfast, we will travel down the Tahuayo River to visit the jungle community of Santa Ana. After learning about the culture and traditions of these villagers, participants will tour a local school and a small plantation of manioc and pineapple located in the buffer zone of the Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve. After lunch at the plantation, which will include a desert of fresh pineapple, participants will hike through the forest and cool off in a small waterfall created by a natural clay shelf. Along our route, we will observe many interesting bromeliads, as well as a variety of under-story plants such as the "ajo-sacha" and "sanango". In the late afternoon, a visit to Barbasco Lake will allow us to see giant lily pads found in the region. Our group will then return to the Tahuayo Lodge for dinner. This evening, we will be entertained by a local guitarist specializing in Peruvian folk music. Overnight Tahuayo Lodge. B L D

DAY 6 WILDLIFE of TAPAJE LAKE-FISH for PIRAÑHA and PEACOCK BASS-HIKE THROUGH VARZEA and TERRA FIRME RAINFOREST-MEDICINAL USES of RAINFOREST PLANTS-SHAMAN VISIT. We will depart very early this morning for Tapaje Lake to observe sloths, monkeys and the wide variety of bird-life found here. Field Course participants will also have the opportunity to fish for pirañha and beautiful peacock bass (depending on the season). Following lunch at the Lodge, we will hike through a combination of varzea and terra firme rainforest with a Native Guide who specializes in the medicinal uses of rainforest plants. Late this afternoon, our group will return to the Lodge for dinner. A Shaman, from a nearby village, will join us this evening and demonstrate a native "good luck-good health" ceremony. Overnight Tahuayo Lodge. B L D

DAY 7 RAINFOREST CANOPY EXPERIENCE. Following breakfast, we will spend the day exploring the upper rainforest canopy using a tandem zip-line system that is connected to several old-growth emergent trees located behind the Tahuayo Lodge. Field Course participants will be mechanically hoisted about one hundred feet onto a platform located in the canopy of a large Ceiba tree. From the platform, individuals are then connected to a system of stainless steel aircraft cables, enabling easy movement from treetop to treetop. This will provide participants the opportunity to observe a wide variety of flora and fauna that can’t be seen from ground level. Complete safety is assured. In the late afternoon, we will return to the Tahuayo Lodge for dinner and overnight. B L D

Note: The RAINFOREST CANOPY EXPERIENCE is completely safe, but due to heights involved, may not be recommended for all Field Course participants.

DAY 8 RAINFOREST CANOPY EXPLORATION-PREPARATION for CAMPING TRIP into TAMSHIYACU-TAHUAYO RESERVE. After breakfast this morning, we will continue DAY 7 activities. In the late afternoon, our group will return to Tahuayo Lodge. Following dinner, we will prepare for our camping excursion into interior of the Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve. Overnight Tahuayo Lodge. B L D

DAY 9 TAHUAYO and TANGARANA RIVER CANOE TRIP-NIGHT HIKE in the RAINFOREST-CAMP in the TAMSHIYACU-TAHUAYO RESERVE. Following an early breakfast, we will travel by boat to the mouth of the Tangarana River, an uninhabited tributary of the Tahuayo. Our group will then continue up the Tangarana by dugout canoe and have the opportunity to observe some of the wide variety of mammals, birds and large anacondas found here. In the late afternoon, we will set up camp along the banks of the Tangarana, located in the buffer zone of the Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve. Following dinner at our campsite, participants will hike into the rainforest in search of nocturnal mammals….mouse opossums, owl monkeys and kinkajous, as well as a great variety of reptiles, amphibians, spiders and insects. Overnight Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve. B L D

Note: The scheduled camping trip on DAYS 9, 10 and 11 is optional. For the most meaningful and memorable RAINFOREST EXPERIENCE we highly recommend this portion of the itinerary, but for those who choose not to participate a wide variety of Guided alternative activities based out of the Tahuayo Lodge will be available.

DAY 10 HIKE and CAMP in the REMOTE INTERIOR TERRA FIRME RAINFOREST of the TAMSHIYACU-TAHUAYO RESERVE. After breakfast, we will pick up camp and depart for a full-day of hiking and explore the many wonders of the terra firme rainforest found in the core of the Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve. Today, we will rely on our Native Guides to choose the best route for us, as there are no trails in this vast expanse of primary rainforest. Our efforts will provide for an unforgettable rainforest experience. In the late afternoon, Field Course participants will set up camp on the interior of the Reserve. Following dinner, we will rest and listen to the sounds of the forest, which typically include a variety of owls and other nocturnal birds. We may also be fortunate enough to hear the cries of a jaguar in the distance. Overnight Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve. B L D

DAY 11 TAMSHIYACU-TAHUAYO RESERVE-RAINFOREST MYTHOLOGY. Early this morning, we will pack up and hike back to our dugout canoes on the Tangarana River. In the late afternoon, we will again set up camp and following dinner, be entertained by the story-telling of our Native Guides. The focus will be on jungle mythology and Indian folklore. Overnight Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve. B L D

DAY 12 TANGARANA and TAHUAYO RIVER CANOE TRIP. Following breakfast, we will break camp and travel by dugout canoe back to the Tahuayo River, board a larger boat and return to the Tahuayo Lodge. Following our return, the remainder of the day will be spent relaxing in and around the Lodge, as we reflect on our camping experience. Dinner and overnight Tahuayo Lodge. B L D

DAY 13 MARKET DAY-CHARRO LAKE-FAREWELL DINNER. Today is market-day! Villagers from throughout the region come together bringing many unusual arts and crafts for trade or sale. Items may include local pottery, decorative gourds and handmade canoe paddles. Following lunch, we will return to Charro Lake for a relaxing swim and hopefully one last look at the pink freshwater dolphins found here. Late in the afternoon, participants will return to the Lodge and challenge Field Course Staff members in a game of volleyball. Tonight, we will be treated to a Farewell Dinner. Overnight Tahuayo Lodge. B L D

DAY 14 TAHUAYO and AMAZON RIVER BOAT TRIP-IQUITOS-DEPARTURE. After an early breakfast and farewells to your Peru A Field Course Staff, you will return to Iquitos by boat. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the Iquitos airport for your return flight to Lima. B L

Note: Due to weather conditions and circumstances beyond the control of Field Course Staff, certain activities may be changed or done on different days in the best interest of the group.

MORE ITINERARY INFORMATION:
Below is a list of activities you can choose from to design your own customized itinerary, while at the Tahuayo Lodge. Some are only available at certain times of the year.
• Swim in a blackwater lake with pink freshwater dolphins (Nov-Jun)
• Visit a native shaman
• Medicinal plant hikes
• Excursions to see feeding or nesting macaws, toucans and other parrots
• Canoe into flooded varzea forest (Feb-May)
• View pygmy marmosets, world's smallest primate, found in trees close to the Lodge
• Close look at the unusual hoatzin birds (young fledge Jun-Aug)
• Hike to a manakin lek
• Visit a native elementary school (Jun-Dec)
• View caimans (Jul-Oct)
• Visit native artisan market
• Canoe and portage to interior lakes, called cochas, rich in wildlife
• View tree frogs, including several species that have just recently been discovered
• Jungle survival training
• Observe electric eels
• Bird-watching (a list of nearly 533 species for the area near the Lodge has been compiled)
• Visit native communities
• Follow jaguar or peccary tracks in the forest
• Visit a native family, via translator hear about traditions and native lore
• Visit conservation projects (May-Jul)
• Greatest amount of flowering plants (May-Jul)
• Parakeets feeding at kapok (Jun)
• Observe macaws at feeding site
• View a variety of primate species
• Search for giant anaconda (Jun-Oct), boas and other snakes
• Canoe around giant, fortress-like ficus (Mar-May)
• Bathe under a small waterfall in a glade filled with orchids
• Hike to see giant kapoks
• Traditional native dances
• Evening lake boat trips to view southern constellations and nocturnal wildlife, such as boat-billed herons, potoos, owl monkeys and more
• View brilliant tropical fish such as cichlids, angel fish and tetras
• View or participate in poison frog conservation project
• Photograph/observe tarantulas, harlequin and Hercules beetles kept in a terrarium at the Lodge
• Visit butterfly colpa, where hundreds of species swarm (July-Oct)
• Have a revitalizing morning bath using medicinal plants

SPECIALIZED ACTIVITIES:

Exploring the Jungle Canopy:
The Tahuayo Lodge has the longest zip-line canopy system in the entire Amazon. Participants are hoisted ~100 feet above ground into a large kapok tree. The entire zip-line system is attached to several old-growth emergent trees. Strapped into a rapeller's harness and attached by a carabiner to the tandem zip-line made of stainless steel aircraft cables, one is able to travel from tree to tree. Each tree has a wooden platform, which allows one to stop and study canopy life. Participants can control the speed at which they travel or even stop between trees to observe flora/fauna or take pictures. The system is similar to that seen in the movie "Medicine Man" starring Sean Connery. Every precaution has been taken to ensure participant safety. Unlimited canopy access is allowed to participants (weather permitting).

Jungle Survival:
Most of our participants choose from “softer” itinerary options that are available. With the current public fascination involving "survivor" themes, some participants focus their attention on our more adventurous offerings. These include a variety of activities in “jungle survival training”. An abbreviated list is included below.

Construction of a lean-to:
How to select a site; soil and drainage considerations; types of wood to use in setting up the framework; how to use irapay palm (Lepidocaryum tenue) fronds for rain-proofing.

Construction of fire:
Recognition of wood that will have hard, dry interior even when waterlogged by rainforest humidity; use of copal resin as a fire starter.

Sources of pure water:
Immature yarina (Phytelephas macrocarpa) fruits; puca huasca (Doliocarpus dentatus) and cano huasca vines (Uncaria spp.).

Sources of food:
Palm fruits; palm hearts from Euterpe and Iriartea; edible beetle grubs; termites; certain species of ants; legumes, especially from Inga; using barbasco (Lonchocarpus species) sap to stun fish; canabrava (Gynerium sagittatum) to build a fish trap; tamshi vine (Carludovica devergens) to make animal snares.

Raft construction:
Recognition of balsa wood; it can be tied together with tamshi vine; oars made from remo caspii (Styrax acuminatum).

Mosquito repellent:
Made from Nasutitermes (termites).

Weapons:
Fishing spears made from cumaceba (Cesalpina echinata); bows from cashapona (Iriartea exorrhiza), string from chambira (Astrocaryum chambira); arrowshafts from bamboo and arrowheads from cumaceba.

Survival Medicines:
Venomous snakebite from piripiri leaves (Cyperus articulatus); venomous insect bites from curarina bark (Potalia amara); fever from sanango root (Sanango durum); disinfectant from pichirina sap (Vismia angusta); field dressing from fiber inside the bark of machimango (Ceiba species); anti-parasite ointment from oje sap (Ficus antihelmintica); dysentery or gastrointestinal distress from hierba luisa leaves (Cymbopogon citratus).

EXTENSION: CUZCO and MACHU PICCHU

Notes: Our CUZCO and MACHU PICCHU EXTENSION requires a round-trip flight Lima-Cuzco-Lima. Overnight stays in Lima may be required prior to and/or following this extension. If necessary, hotel reservations and transfers will be arranged through Rainforest and Reef and are not included in the cost.

For all domestic flights within Peru, we will need each traveler’s name as it appears on their passport, nationality, date of birth, passport number and expiration date. We recommend consulting with your physician about medication to cope with the high altitude of this extension. Some choose to arrive in Cuzco a day early to rest and acclimatize. Daytime temperatures are cool to pleasant (55-75°F). Evenings can get down to freezing. Dress appropriately and be prepared to add or subtract layers of clothing during the day. A good windbreaker and hiking shoes are necessities. At this altitude, there is little atmospheric protection from UV radiation. Use sun block and sun glasses. Bring a day-pack or small backpack and water bottle or canteen. More detailed information is available to those who are trekking or rafting.

All itineraries outlined below have been popular choices before and/or after our Peru A Field Course. We can also customize an itinerary to meet your interests and needs.

AVAILABLE DATES: Before or after any of our Field Courses in Peru, Bolivia or Ecuador.

LENGTH: 3 Days/2 Nights; 4 Days/3 Nights; 5 Days/4 Nights

COST: Listed after each itinerary below.

Prices Below Include: All INSTRUCTION and BI-LINGUAL GUIDE SERVICES; all MEALS and LODGING as stated in the itinerary; all GROUND TRANSPORTATION and TRANSFERS in CUZCO and MACHU PICCHU; all ENTRANCE FEES to NATIONAL PARKS and OTHER SITES.

Prices Below Do Not Include: Round-trip DOMESTIC AIRFARE Lima-Cuzco-Lima, ~275.00USD per person (schedules and prices are subject to change); DOMESTIC AIRPORT DEPARTURE TAX (10.00US per person/flight); GRATUITIES and PERSONAL ITEMS.



DESCRIPTION: The imperial city Cuzco, meaning “navel of the earth”, was laid out in the form of a puma….the animal that symbolized the Incan dynasty. The belly of the puma was the main plaza, the Tullumayo River formed its spine and the ruins of Sacsayhuamán its head. Sacsayhuamán is located north of Cuzco, the archaeological park located here covers an area of approximately 7700 acres and contains more than 200 sites. It is one of the most imposing archaeological complexes inherited from the Incas. The Urubamba River Valley, better known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas, is a beautiful stretch of villages and ancient ruins spread across a broad plain and the gentle mountain slopes northwest of Cuzco. The magnificent ruins found from Pisac to Ollantaytambo (62 miles) and beyond are some of the finest in all of the Americas and stand as testaments to the region's ceremonial importance. The Incas built several of the empire's greatest estates, temples and royal palaces between the sacred centers of Cuzco and Machu Picchu, positioned like great bookends at the north and south ends of the Valley. The revered Río Urubamba rolls through the Valley and is a pivotal religious element in Incan history. With the river as its source, the fertile Valley was a major center of agricultural production, where the Incas grew native Andean crops such as white corn, coca, potatoes, along with other fruits and vegetables. Today Quichua speaking residents work the fields and harvest salt with methods unchanged since the days of the Incas. Market days still remain important rituals. Along with Cuzco and Machu Picchu, the two biggest attractions in Peru, the Sacred Valley is also one of Peru’s many highlights. A visit here gives one the chance to soak up the area's immense history, relaxed character, big sky and stunning scenery. Beckoning at the end of the line is Machu Picchu (74 miles northwest of Cuzco). The most celebrated archaeological site in South America and a place that retains its mystery, allure and spectacular beauty despite its popularity. Machu Picchu is one of the most dramatic sites on earth. The classic route to Machu Picchu is via the Inca Trail. Hiking the trail requires 4 days (2 days along the shorter, less traditional path) of fairly difficult trekking. The experience is unforgettable. If you don't have time or interest in hiking and camping, the train to Machu Picchu nearly rivals the trail for scenic beauty. The Incas hid Machu Picchu so high in the clouds that it escaped destruction by the Spaniards. Rediscovered in 1911 by Yale archaeologist Hiram Bingham, Machu Picchu is no longer overgrown with vegetation. From below it is still totally hidden from view, as the majestic setting the Incas chose for it remains unchanged. By staying at least 1 night, either at the one upscale hotel just outside the grounds of Machu Picchu or down below in the town of Aguas Calientes, you can remain at the ruins later in the afternoon after most of the tour groups have left or get there for sunrise, a dramatic and unforgettable sight. There are additionally some excellent treks in the area.

ITINERARIES:

MEAL CODES: B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner

3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS:

DAY 1 Morning flight to Cuzco. City Tour and Sacsayhuamán or archaeological sites and markets in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Overnight Cuzco. B

DAY 2 Early morning train to Machu Picchu. Guided interpretation of the ruins of Machu Picchu. Late afternoon return to Cuzco. Overnight Cuzco. B L

DAY 3 Transfer to airport Cuzco and return flight to Lima. B

COSTS:

Economy Hotel (3 Star): 470.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 70.00USD
Standard Hotel (4 Star): 550.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 100.00USD
Luxury Hotel (5 Star): 695.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 300.00USD

4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS:

DAY 1 Morning flight to Cuzco. City Tour and Sacsayhuamán or archaeological sites and markets in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Overnight Cuzco. B

DAY 2 Early morning train to Machu Picchu. Overnight Machu Picchu. B L

DAY 3 Visit Machu Picchu. Late afternoon return to Cuzco and overnight. B

DAY 4 Transfer to airport Cuzco and return flight to Lima. B

COSTS:

Economy Hotel (3 Star): 550.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 100.00USD
Standard Hotel (4 Star): 665.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 140.00USD
Luxury Hotel (5 Star): 925.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 400.00USD

5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS:

DAY 1 Morning flight to Cuzco. Archaeological sites and markets in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Overnight Cuzco. B
DAY 2 Early morning train to Machu Picchu. Overnight at Machu Picchu. B L
DAY 3 Visit Machu Picchu. Late afternoon return to Cuzco and overnight. B
DAY 4 Cuzco City Tour and Sacsayhuamán. Overnight Cuzco. B
DAY 5 Transfer to airport Cuzco and return flight to Lima. B

Economy Hotel (3 Star): 625.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 140.00USD
Standard Hotel (4 Star): 770.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 180.00USD
Luxury Hotel (5 Star): 1150.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 500.00USD

EXTENSION: LAKE TITICACA

Notes: Our LAKE TITICACA EXTENSION requires a round-trip flight Lima-Juliaca-Lima. Overnight stays in Lima may be required prior to and/or following this extension. If necessary, hotel reservations and transfers will be arranged through Rainforest and Reef and are not included in the cost.

For all domestic flights within Peru, we will need each traveler’s name as it appears on their passport, nationality, date of birth, passport number and expiration date. We recommend consulting with your physician about medication to cope with the high altitude of this extension. Daytime temperatures are cool to pleasant (55-75°F). Evenings can get down to freezing. Dress appropriately and be prepared to add or subtract layers of clothing during the day. A good windbreaker and hiking shoes are necessities. At this altitude, there is little atmospheric protection from UV radiation. Use sun block and sun glasses. Bring a day-pack or small backpack and water bottle or canteen. More detailed information is available to those who are trekking or rafting.
AVAILABLE DATES: Before or after any of our Field Courses in Peru, Bolivia or Ecuador.

LENGTH: 4 Days/3 Nights ((longer or shorter extensions available upon request; see Cuzco/Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca combination below)

COST:
Economy Hotel (3 Star): 475.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 95.00USD
Standard Hotel (4 Star): 585.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 145.00USD
Luxury Hotel (5 Star): 695.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 225.00USD

Includes: All INSTRUCTION and BI-LINGUAL GUIDE SERVICES; some MEALS; all LODGING as stated in the itinerary; all GROUND TRANSPORTATION and TRANSFERS in Juliaca/Puno; all ENTRANCE FEES to NATIONAL PARKS and OTHER SITES.

Does Not Include: Round-trip DOMESTIC AIRFARE Lima-Juliaca-Lima; DOMESTIC AIRPORT DEPARTURE TAX (10.00US per person/flight); GRATUITIES and PERSONAL ITEMS.

DESCRIPTION: Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake on earth at an elevation of 12,580 feet. Straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia, the Andean peoples refer to it as “The Sacred Lake”. Indian legend says the Sun God had his children here, Manco Capac and Mama OcIlo. They are then thought to have sprung from the Lake, founded Cuzco and began the Incan Empire. Actually two lakes joined by the Strait of Tiquina, Lake Titicaca sprawls over 3500 square miles and is fed by waters from the melting snows of the Andes. Nearby, on the Bolivian side of the Lake, arose the population and ceremonial center of Tiahuanaco, capital to one of the most important civilizations in South America. Tiahuanaco ceremonial sites were built along the Lake's shores, indicating that the lake was considered sacred at least 2000 years ago. Excavations have uncovered the remains of five civilizations, one on top of the other. The last one is thought to have ended a hundred years before the first Incans. At the time of the Spanish Conquest, one of the most important religious sites of the Inca Empire was located on the Island of the Sun. The people who utilize the Lake's resources today make offerings to her, ensuring sufficient tortora reeds for their boats, safe passage across its waters, successful fishing and for a mild climate. The traditional tortora-reed boats used by natives to this area take 3 days to build and last 7-8 months. The rugged, snow-covered peaks of the Cordillera Real loom over the shores of the Lake, but its waters are calm and relaxing to the eye. The best-known of the islands dotting Lake Titicaca's surface are the Uros, floating islands made from the reed named after the Indians who inhabit them. Besides the Lake itself and the Island of the Sun within it, the highlight of the region is the picturesque lakeshore town of Copacabana. Copacabana has a number of small but important Incan ruins. All of them are overshadowed by the town's main attraction, the Virgin of Copacabana. Pilgrims travel from all over South America for the Virgin's blessing.

ITINERARY:

DAY 1 Uros Floating Islands. Overnight Puno.

DAY 2 Taquile and Amantani Islands. Overnight Puno.

DAY 3 Taquile and Amantani Islands. Overnight Puno.

DAY 4 Sillustani and Lake Umayo. Evening transfer to Juliaca for return flight to Lima.

EXTENSION: CUZCO/MACHU PICCHU and LAKE TITICACA COMBINATION

Notes: Our CUZCO/MACHU PICCHU and LAKE TITICACA COMBINATION requires one-way flights Lima-Cuzco and Juliaca-Lima. Overnight stays in Lima may be required prior to and/or following this extension. If necessary, hotel reservations and transfers will be arranged through Rainforest and Reef and are not included in the cost.

For all domestic flights within Peru, we will need each traveler’s name as it appears on their passport, nationality, date of birth, passport number and expiration date.
We recommend consulting with your physician about medication to cope with the high altitude of this extension. Daytime temperatures are cool to pleasant (55-75°F). Evenings can get down to freezing. Dress appropriately and be prepared to add or subtract layers of clothing during the day. A good windbreaker and hiking shoes are necessities. At this altitude, there is little atmospheric protection from UV radiation. Use sun block and sun glasses. Bring a day-pack or small backpack and water bottle or canteen. More detailed information is available to those who are trekking or rafting.

LENGTH: 10 Days/9 Nights (longer or shorter extensions available upon request)
AVAILABLE DATES: Before or after any of our Field Courses in Peru, Bolivia or Ecuador.

COST:
Economy Hotel (3 Star): 1075.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 195.00USD
Standard Hotel (4 Star): 1275.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 395.00USD
Luxury Hotel (5 Star): 1725.00USD pp dbl occ/sgl supplement add 695.00USD

Includes: All INSTRUCTION and BI-LINGUAL GUIDE SERVICES; some MEALS; all LODGING as stated in the itinerary; all GROUND TRANSPORTATION and TRANSFERS in Cuzco/Machu Picchu and Juliaca/Puno; TRAIN TICKETS Cuzco-Puno; all ENTRANCE FEES to NATIONAL PARKS and OTHER SITES.

Does Not Include: Round-trip DOMESTIC AIRFARE Lima-Cuzco and Juliaca-Lima; DOMESTIC AIRPORT DEPARTURE TAX (10.00US per person/flight); GRATUITIES and PERSONAL ITEMS.
ITINERARY:

DAY 1 Sacred Valley of the Incas.

DAY 2 Early morning train to Machu Picchu. Overnight at Machu Picchu.

DAY 3 Visit Machu Picchu. Late afternoon return to Cuzco and overnight.

DAY 4 Cuzco City Tour and Sacsayhuamán.

DAY 5 Train to Puno. Lake Titicaca. Overnight Puno.

DAY 6 Taquile and Amantani Islands. Overnight Puno.

DAY 7 Taquile and Amantani Islands. Overnight Puno.

DAY 8 Aymara Native Markets. Overnight Puno.

DAY 9 Uros Floating Islands. Overnight Puno.

DAY 10 Sillustani and Lake Umayo. Evening transfer to Juliaca for return flight to Lima.