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AUGUST 5-18, 2006
$2899
Rick French, Leader
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 Visit
two of the most famous Andean sites in South America: Machu Picchu in
Peru and Lake Titicaca in Bolivia. After rendezvousing in Lima,
we fly into the former Inca Capital and Spanish colonial city of Cusco
which is our base for this great expedition. It is a wonderful
place full of culture, history, good restaurants and fun
night-life. From Cusco we travel through the Sacred Valley of the
Incas, passing the Inca Fortress town of Ollantaytambo, before
embarking on the famous Inca Trail to the lost city of the Incas,
Machu Picchu. This 5 day/4 night trek involves spectacular
Andean scenery along an ancient paved Inca trail. We will be
visiting many ruins and spending an entire day exploring the
awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu. From here, we return to
Cusco along the Urubamba river for a rest day where we can relax and
prepare for the next adventure. The journey from Cusco to Puno,
on the shores of Lake Titicaca is a classic Altiplano traverse through
beautiful villages. You will get there on one of the best train
rides in the world. At the lake we'll stay in local houses and
take a boat cruise. Then it's back to Lima with time to explore
this city before departing for home.While trekking, we hike with just a daypack, sleep in tents (provided) and have our meals cooked for us. In towns and villages we stay in hotels and local homes. This trip is perfect for adventurers who want to visit a fascinating country, meet its people, learn about its history and do it on foot among the people! We have purposely limited this trek to 12 people which allows for good conversation and assistance when needed. The emphasis is on adventure and comfort since accommodations are in the 3 star range. We are traveling at a perfect time to avoid the crowds yet still catch good weather. (Tentative Itinerary) BACKGROUND INFORMATION: Cuzco is the hub of the South America travel network. It is also the archaeological capital of the Americas and the continent's oldest continuously inhabited city. Massive Inca-built walls line the central streets. Throngs of Inca descendants pack the streets as travelers to the area. It has about 300,000 citizens and is at about 10,000 feet above sea level. It was founded in the 12th century by the first Inca, Manco Capac, the son of the sun. After 3 centuries of Inca rule the Europeans appeared on the scene. Pizarro was able, with only a few dozen men, to capture Atahualpa, the recent victor in a divisive Inca civil war. After holding him prisoner and demanding a room full of gold as ransom, Pizarro killed his captive and marched into Cuzco. He installed a puppet Inca ruler who, after 3 years, decided to try to oust the Spanish. He almost succeeded at Cusco after raising an army of a hundred thousand men. The Spanish, who were seafaring, then moved their capital to the coast. Cuzco's importance declined after the severe sacking and looting was completed and it became a quiet colonial town. Yet the heart of Cuzco is still Inca. With the rediscovery of Machu Picchu in 1911, Cuzco once again became the center of international attention. Lake Titicaca has been drilled into our memories as school children as the highest navigable lake in the world at close to 12,000 feet. At this altitude the clear sky and the blue waters are striking. Here you will be in the dazzling brilliance of Peru's altiplano. The horizon appears limitless. The altitude's brilliance reflects in the nut brown faces of the residents. Many interesting excursions occur here on the lake and the islands in it. The area is famous for its folk lore and dance. LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY OF THE TRIP: You will be hiking less than 10 miles each day, but the mileage does not tell the whole story. Travelers from all over the world do this trek, however many feel the affects from the altitude. There are some long, moderately steep uphill climbs. In mountain terms the altitudes are moderate, but for most people they are high. The highest pass is 4200m (13,775ft). We will take care to balance acclimatization with travel. You are likely to notice a shortness of breath and other possible affects of the altitude. The route is planned to minimize the more severe affects of altitude. In addition, most people experience some culture adjustment. By our standards, the standard of living is very poor. There is begging and other situations we are not accustomed to seeing. However, if you are at a normal fitness level and have a desire for a different culture, you will love this trip. The more fit you are before the trip, the more you will enjoy the trip. Price of $2899 ($400 nonrefundable) includes: Airport transfers; domestic flights in Peru; local professional bilingual (English/Spanish) guides; porters; cooks; guided tour of Machu Picchu; entrance fees for Inca Trail and Machu Picchu; bus, train and boat travel; accommodations; tents and sleeping mats; meals (except lunches and dinners in towns). Not included: Airfare to Lima, airport taxes, personal belongings, sleeping bag, personal expenses, tips, 7 lunches, 8 dinners. $400 nonrefundable deposit needed to register. Balance due 60 days prior to trip. For more information and to sign up, contact the leader, Rick French, PO Box 82, South Lima, NY 14558, telephone 585-346-5597, E-mail info@PackPaddleSki.com. |