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Holidays

Cordillera Blanca - The Alpamayo Circuit Trek

Peru
Walk & Trek
Guided Group
CHALLENGING CHALLENGING

A wonderful wilderness trek in the Peruvian Cordillera Blanca, circumnavigating the majestic Alpamayo

Trip Code: CBP
Holiday Grades

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

 1 - 3 LEISURELY
1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

View leisurely holidays
4 - 6 MODERATE
4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

View moderate holidays
7 - 9 CHALLENGING
7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

View challenging holidays
10 - 12 TOUGH
10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

View Tough holidays

Cordillera Blanca - The Alpamayo Circuit Trek

Highlights
  • Trek through the beautiful Cordillera Blanca range
  • Enjoy the warm hospitality of remote Quechua communities along the way
  • Camp in the most stunning locations, surrounded by azure glacial lakes and snow-capped peaks
  • Find out for yourself why Alpamayo was voted the world's most beautiful mountain

At a Glance
  • Group Size 4 to 16
  • 12 days trekking
  • Max Altitude - 4860m
  • Join In Lima

Accommodation & Meals
  • 14 Breakfasts
  • 14 Lunches
  • 9 Dinners
  • 5 nights Hotel
  • 9 nights Camping
Overview

The Cordillera Blanca is an apt name for this range. With its snow-fluted summits, knife-edge ridges, tumbling glaciers, glacial lakes and steep-sided valleys; this spectacular 10-day trek will take you on a high and wild tour of the range as we traverse around its most beautiful peak: the distinctive pyramid of Alpamayo. After an overnight stop in Lima, we drive along the Pan-American Highway to the mountain town of Huaraz to begin this most picturesque of Andean treks. Brimming with the buzz of fellow trekkers, the trail-head of Huaraz provides a great base for our two acclimatisation walks. Leaving Huaraz, we take a short transfer to the start of our trek, where we will spend the next nine nights under canvas supported by our expert Andean trek crew. Crossing high passes, following ancient trails and passing through Quechuan communities, our superb trek provides a succession of simply stunning views of Mt Huascaran (6768m), Mt Taulliraju (5830m) and Mt Rinrijirca (5808m). The centrepiece of this trekking holiday is undoubtedly our visit to base camp of Alpamayo (5947m). Renowned as one of the most spectacular treks in the world, this itineray packs a punch for those looking for a two week adventure.


View our full range of walking and trekking holidays in Peru.

Is this holiday for you?

This is a classic trekking holiday on which we will encounter a variety of underfoot conditions, ranging from village trails, high rocky mountain passes and grassy meadows in the sparsely inhabited high valleys within the Huascaran National Park. It is possible that the highest passes may even have a light covering of snow. You should be comfortable with walking for up to 8 hours each day and for …

This is a classic trekking holiday on which we will encounter a variety of underfoot conditions, ranging from village trails, high rocky mountain passes and grassy meadows in the sparsely inhabited high valleys within the Huascaran National Park. It is possible that the highest passes may even have a light covering of snow. You should be comfortable with walking for up to 8 hours each day and for several days continuously. To help you acclimatise and enjoy your trekking holiday, we have allowed 3 nights at around 3000 metres, and 2 acclimatisation walks, before we start trekking. The Alpamayo Basecamp Trek is a challenging trekking holiday on account of its overall length, the number of high passes and camping nights. This is a fully supported trek and you will only be required to carry your day pack each day. Our friendly camp crew will take care of all the camp chores, so when in camp you can relax, rest and enjoy the views.

Why KE?

Adventure journalist Terry Adby travelled with us to the Cordillera Blanca for his feature in the Adventure Travel Magazine - Read his article here. Find out why this is the perfect two-week trek in the Peruvian Andes for you!

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Itinerary

Meet at the group hotel. Airport transfers are provided for all clients arriving in Lima between 9am and 10pm. We meet our trip leader who will give an informal briefing on the days ahead. Whilst lunch and dinner will be at your expense today, your local guide will be able to advise on local places to dine.

Accommodation

Hotel

An early morning departure for the mountain town of Huaraz. Heading northwards along Peru's Atlantic coastline, we follow the Pan American highway and turn eastwards, climbing from sea level to the Punta Conococha Pass (4100m) in a little over 3 hours. Dropping down from the pass, we continue to drive onwards to Huaraz and check into our group for the next three nights.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L

Taking a short vehicle transfer, we cross the Santa River and arrive into the Cordillera Negra. Here we begin the first of our acclimatisation walks absorbing the beautiful panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca. We hike a straightforward trail to find our walking legs in preparation for the days ahead.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L

Time

3 - 4 hrs trekking

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast, we hike towards the hills of Huaraz and enjoy a circular morning walk above the Andean trekking town. The rest of the afternoon is free-time to relax, purchase any last minute trekking supplies or visit the regional Ancash Musuem, housing Peru's largest collection of ancient stone sculptures dating back to 1100AD.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L

Departing Huaraz, our first stop is the colourful market town of Carhuaz. With its pretty plaza and lofty palms, we enjoy a short stroll before visiting Campo Santa in old Yungay, a memorial site to the Andes' most catastrophic natural disaster. In 1970, an earthquake dislodged a colossal shelf of ice and granite from the west wall of Mount Huascaran which engulfed the town below, burying 18,000 people. Today, survivors and their descendants continue to maintain gardens on the site in honour of the dead. Driving deeper into Huascaran National Park, we enjoy a peaceful lakeside picnic lunch before the road ascends to the Portachuelo de Llanganuco pass (4767m). Taking in the glorious panorama of Huascarán (6768m), Huandoy (6395m), Pisco (5740m) and Chopicalqui (6354m); we leave our vehicle behind and descend on foot to our first camp at Vaqueria (3699m), which provides the perfect warm-up for this tremendous trek.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Time

2 - 3 hrs trekking

Breaking our first camp this morning we trek up the Tuctu Valley, passing through several small Andean agricultural settlements. Pacing out our day sensibly, we ascend to our camp at 4114m and settle to enjoy views of Taulliraju (5830m) and Rinrijirca (5808m) looming at the head of the valley.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Continuing on this ancient trail, we take a steady climb over our objective for the day: Pucaraju Pass (4684m) which presents us with beautiful views of Paron (4185m) and Huascaran (6768m) The latter is the fourth highest mountain in the Western hemisphere, first conquered in 1932 by a German-Austrian expedition. Continuing to trek onwards and down to Laguna Huecrocochca (3962m), we camp nearby and enjoy the serenity of one of South America's finest National Parks.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Time

6 hrs trekking

Hiking up through the village of Tingopampa, our route climbs through woodland and ascends via a grassy pass where we hope to see flocks of alpacas grazing happily on the mountainside. Heading over the pass at 4383m, we descend into the picturesque Jancapampa Valley. This valley is home to the hardiest of the rose family, polylepis, which is known to thrive well above the 5000m mark! Heading for our camp at 3535m, we may enjoy the company of local Andean communities.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Time

6 hrs trekking

Trekking out of this gorgeous valley, our steep but manageable climb through farmland passes through cultivated land, forests and ascends towards the narrow Yanajanca pass (4598m). A steady 8-hours trekking, Our views today are dominated by the immense glaciers of Mt Pucajirca’s East Face (6048m). Hiking downwards towards the small settlement of Huilca, our camp is dominated by the wonderful skyline of Mt Pucajirca and neighbouring peaks.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Time

8 hrs trekking

We break camp and set off from the Quebrada Tayapampa, encompassing glorious views towards Mt Alpamayo's north east face, Pucajirca Central and Pucajirca Oeste. Never failing to deliver a panorama of glistening peaks, the Cordillera Blanca really is a perfect mountain haven and as we getting ever closer to the rather conspicuous beauty of Alpamayo, we walk to Moyobamba (4480m) with the view of tomorrow's pass in sight.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Time

4 - 5 hrs trekking

Heading for the centrepiece of our trek, our adventure takes us up and over the Caracara Pass (4815m), rewarding us with superb views of Alpamayo. A magnificent pyramid-like peak, it is probably the most famous mountain of Cordillera Blanca's most northerly massif. Even though it is dwarfed by neighbouring peaks, the beauty of this mountain has long captivated climbers, trekkers and photographers. After lunch, we trek to the base camp of Alpamayo, overlooking the Laguna Jancarurish, for spectacular photographic opportunities. Retracing some of our steps, we continue our trek down the Jancarurish Valley and arrive into camp with time to appreciate one of the most stunning mountain sunsets in Peru.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Time

4 - 5 hrs trekking

Waking to Alpamayo looming above us makes for a memorable start to today's walk! As we leave behind views of this magnificent mountain, we begin a challenging ascent to the Jatun Viento pass (4648m). Making our way west we reach the highest of our campsites at 4511m well acclimatised after trekking at altitude over the previous days.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Time

6 hrs trekking

The penultimate day of the trek takes us to the highest point on this adventure. Although the Toro Pishtanana Pass (4848m) is a fabulous pass, with sweeping views across the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Negra, the descent to Cuillicocha Lake (4648m) is sublime. Azure-blue and framed by the three peaks of Santa Cruz, Cuillicocha Lake is more than just a picture postcard view! A pre-Incan aqueduct provides valuable water for the valley farms below to this day and every year Andean farmers make their way into the mountains for an annual 'aqueduct repair' festival. Walking onwards to Huischca, we make camp for our last night under canvas (3992m).

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Time

5 - 6 hrs trekking

Leaving camp this morning, we enjoy a downhill walk to the pre-Incan ruins of Hualacayan, descending through farmland and village life of the Huaylas Valley. Upon reaching the edge of the national park, we will have a chance to sit and absorb the splendour and challenge of our trek before meeting our private vehicles. Taking a scenic drive back to Huaraz, we return to the group hotel for a well-earned shower and in time for celebrations.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L

Time

2 hrs trekking

Today we make the 8hr drive back to airport in Lima, arriving in the afternoon. Additional hotel nights in Lima can be arranged through the KE office if required.

Meals

B L
Download Trip Notes
The Route
Point Point
Peaks Peaks
Direction Direction
Pass Pass
Transfer
Trek

Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

  • A professional and qualified Tour Leader
  • Lima Airport transfers as described in the itinerary
  • Accommodation as described
  • Meals as described in the meal plan
  • All land transport involved in the itinerary
  • Full service camping including food and all equipment (excluding personal equipment)
  • Inflatable sleeping mat whilst camping.

  • Travel insurance
  • Some meals as described in the meal plan
  • Tips for porters and other trek staff
  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc

The group will meet at the hotel in Lima.

Airport transfers are provided for all clients.

Hotel contact details and an emergency number will b eprovided with your booking confirmation.

All breakfasts, 14 lunches and 9 dinners are included in the holiday price. Where there are a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets it is sensible to leave this choice to you and therefore we have not included evening meals while staying in Lima and Huaraz. You will need to pay for a total of 5 dinners. While trekking a full trek service including all meals is provided.

It is not recommended to drink untreated water from the taps. If you are on a trekking or cycling holiday, water is supplied to fill up your individual bottles. This will be boiled, filtered or provided in large jerry cans or 5 litre bottles. Additionally you should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a Water-To-Go bottle) to treat your water when in towns or where water is not supplied. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles.

On trek the food provided will be a mixture of local and worldwide favourites, with all ingredients purchased in Peru and cooked for us by highly trained staff cooks.  The food our cooks are able to produce on trek will be a taste sensation! Lunch is usually a picnic - fresh fruit, salad and bread, cheeses, cold meats, avocado and plenty to drink. Dinners will be three courses and the menus will be flavoursome and varied. There will be no problem catering for vegetarians.

In Lima and Huaraz there is a wide range of restaurants cafes and bars serving excellent and varied cuisine! Meals, apart from breakfast, are not included here so you are free to make your own choice of restaurant and menu. If you are looking to sample some traditional Peruvian fare we can recommend trying Ceviche, a dish of raw fished marinated in citrus juice (the acid in the citrus juice effectively ‘cooks’ the fish), which is the unofficial national dish of Peru! The name Ceviche actually comes from the Quechua word ‘siwichi’, meaning fresh fish. Guinea Pig or ‘Cuy’ is also a common delicacy in the Andes and has been eaten at special occasions since the time of the Incas! Usually served roasted or barbequed, Guinea Pig meat has a gamey taste. It is very high in protein and low in cholesterol. A particular speciality in Huaraz is the Picante de Cuy Estilo Huarancino (Guinea Pig Hot Stew Huaraz Style!).

When it comes to drinks, before and during your trek we can recommend drinking Mate de Coca. It takes a little time to acclimatise to Huaraz’s 3000m elevation and one of the things that is said to help acclimatisation is supping this mildly stimulating, greenish and unusual tasting ‘tea’ made by steeping fresh coca leaves in boiling water. Those looking to celebrate the end of their holiday with an alcoholic beverage (best saved till post trek when you are fully acclimatised!) should seek out a ‘Pisco Sour’. This classic South American cocktail, made by mixing the Peruvian liquor Pisco with lime juice, egg white and bitters, is incredibly moreish!

Whilst we can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, we cannot always provide special diets.  Due to the nature of some of the trips that we operate and the countries in which we operate them, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you may have to supplement your diet with food/snacks from home.  If you have specific dietary requirements please do speak to our sales team and they will be able to advise you whether or not we will be able to offer your specific choice.  Please note that we are unable to provide separate menus and cannot accept liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements or intolerances.

During the holiday you will spend 1 night in a comfortable hotel in Lima and 4 nights in a simple, centrally located hotel in the mountain town of Huaraz.

Whilst trekking there will be a total of 9 nights camping where your will receive a full service from our friendly camp crew. You will sleep in roomy 2 man dome tents, with a porch, and inflatable camping mattresses are provided. All the camp equipment and luggage will be transported between camps by horses, so you need only carry your day pack each day. Our camp crew will erect and dismantle the tents for you, cook, and take care of all the camp chores.

During walking days, having stayed behind to collapse camp, it is usual for the crew and the pack animals to overtake the group during the day and you will usually arrive into camp to find it already established and the kettle on!

In camp, as well as the tents used for sleeping, there will also be a mess tent, with chairs and tables, where the group will dine (and socialise into the evening) and a toilet tent. Hot water for washing will also be provided to you in the mornings and when you arrive at the camp each day.

All accommodation is allocated on a twin-sharing basis. If you are travelling by yourself you will be paired up with another single client of the same sex. It is possible to hire a single tent while on trek for an additional cost. This must be arranged ahead of departure and is subject to availability (please note that single tent hire does not include single rooms in hotels). Depending on availability, it may also be possible to pre-book single hotel rooms. For additional hotel prices and single supplement costs please refer to the dates and prices page of the trip on our website.

The group will be led by a professional and qualified tour leader. Whilst on trek the group will be supported by a full trek crew including camp assistants, cook, baggage animals and their handlers.

This holiday involves going to very high altitude. During the course of your trip you will be spending at least one night above 4000 metres and/or trekking to 5000 metres or above. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes, but it is important that we follow some simple rules in order to acclimatise successfully. Before coming on this holiday you should read the advice on trekking at high altitude on our website which can be viewed via the link below. Unless you have previous experience of trekking above 4000 metres you should consult one of our trekking experts before embarking on this holiday. On this trip we carry a portable altitude chamber (PAC-bag) and/or bottled oxygen for use in emergencies. www.keadventure.com/page/altitude.html

New regulations for visiting Machu Picchu came into force in 2022.

Daily visitor numbers are limited and visitors must be accompanied by a guide on one of five designated 'circuits' that are walked in a one-way direction, with a maximum of 4 hours allowed with in the site.

A ticket, issued by the Peru Ministry of Culture, and included in your trip cost, needs to be purchased in advance of your visit. The ticket will stipulate an entry time and one of the 5 circuits. KE will aim to book the most comprehensive Machu Picchu tour available.

Tickets are linked to your name and passport number and usually sell out 2-3 months in advance. It is therefore important for you to supply us with your passport details at the time of booking to allow us to secure the required tickets.

If you are completing the Inca Trail, a set Machu Picchu circuit is included with your Inca Trail Permit.

IMPORTANT: If you change passport between booking and travelling, you must bring your old passport with you, as your ticket will be linked to the passport details you booked with.

We estimate that $400 (or equivalent in €/$) will be sufficient to cover your requirements including the non-included meals and incidental expenses such as tips for drivers, trek crew and local guides. There are a total of 5 dinners which you will need to pay for directly and we recommend you budget $10 - $25 dollars per meal. There is no need to purchase local currency (Peruvian Soles) prior to travelling. It is possible to withdraw your money in local currency from ATMs in Huaraz. If you are bringing your travel money with you we recommend you bring it in the form of US dollars in cash as this provides for the easiest exchange. Please note that it is more difficult to change money in Huaraz. Credit cards can be used to purchase goods and to pay for meals in Lima.

 

Tipping is common in Peru, however you must remember that it is voluntary, and how much you give depends on how you feel about the service you have received. Airport baggage carriers are the only exception and tipping is compulsory. These people are unwaged and make a living by carrying your luggage. The general rule is 1 or 2 soles per bag. For hotel staff, tipping is not expected, but is welcome. For hotel porters 1 or 2 soles per bag is reasonable. Drivers of standard taxis do not usually expect a tip. As with most countries, it is usual to tip in restaurants and 10% is expected for good service. For the support crew on trek (guides, cooks, porters etc.), it is recommended that each client contributes around £65 to a group tipping pool.

For this holiday you should take one piece of luggage, which should be a soft duffel bag such and a daypack. Your bag on trek will be carried by porters or pack animals and should not weigh more than 15kg. It is possible to leave extra baggage at the hotel in Huaraz. For international flights please check your baggage allowance with your airline.

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status and so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders. A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check for the latest advice before travel. For the most up to date information on entry requirements, please visit the UK Government website.

Visa Peru

UK and USA passport holders do not require a visa for short stays. When passing through immigration you will need to request a copy of your TAM Migration form. You will need to retain this document and keep it safe, as you will be asked to produce it before you depart Peru.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THOSE TRANSITING THROUGH THE USA

You will require an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation), and you must get this before boarding any US-bound aircraft or ship, or entering on a land border. The fee is USD$21 and you should apply for it at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/. With the ESTA complete, the majority of British Citizen passport holders can enter the US under the Visa Waiver Programme, VWP. You will be required to have a passport with an integrated chip. Note that if you have travelled to Cuba, Iran, Syria or North Korea since March 2011* you will have to apply for a visa rather than the Visa Waiver Programme (* a full and up to date list of countries can be found on the US government website here.)

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THOSE TRANSITING THROUGH CANADA

All citizens (except for USA citizens) will require an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation), and you must get this before boarding any Canada-bound aircraft or ship, or entering on a land border. The fee is CAD$7 and you should apply for it at http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta-start.asp

 

If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by KE leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Zika virus has been confirmed as active in this country. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. The mosquitoes that transmit ZIKV are unlikely to be found above 2,000m altitude. For more information, visit the website of the National Travel Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) at https://travelhealthpro.org.uk

 

Vaccinations

You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations or other preventive measures. You should be up to date with routine courses and boosters as recommended in the UK e.g. diphtheria-tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella, along with hepatitis A and typhoid.

Malarial prophylaxis is not usually required for trips in the mountains, however if you are visiting rural and remote low lying areas then they might be necessary.

On holidays to more remote areas you should also have a dentist check up. A good online resource is Travel Health Pro.

Getting some additional exercise before coming on an active holiday makes a lot of sense. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. You should be aerobically fit and comfortable with walking for 6 - 8 hours for consecutive days. Hill walking, with a good amount of ascent and descent, is the best training, and we would suggest that you try to fit in a number of long weekend walks before you depart. Running, cycling and swimming are also good for developing cardio vascular fitness and stamina.

There is little you can do to prepare for the altitude but if you have an excellent level of fitness this can help.

The Southern Hemisphere winter season of April through to October is the optimum period for trekking in this part of Peru. We can expect the days to be warm and generally sunny, with temperatures between 12 and 20°C above c. 3500 metres. during this season, the night-time temperatures will fall below freezing. At our highest camps we might experience night-time temperatures as low as -5°C. Even though this is winter, Lima is only 12 degrees south of the equator, and the daytime temperatures in the capital will be 20 to 25°C, with quite cool nights.

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware’ campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that prior to travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe.  Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation.  We receive regular updates direct from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground.  If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

  • Trekking and Climbing in the Andes. Kate Harper and Val Pitkethly.

  • Flight of the Condor. Michael Andrews.

  • The Conquest of the Incas. John Hemming (MacMillan)

  • Peru - the Rough Guide. Dilwyn Jenkins.

  • The Andes - Time Life Books.

  • The Andes are Prickly. Martin Slessor.

  • The Trekkers Handbook. Tom Gilchrist.

  • Latin America Spanish Phrasebook. Lonely Planet.

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation.  When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct.  Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

The following checklist should help you with your packing. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum.  The packed weight of your kit bag whilst trekking should be no more than 15 kgs.

You must bring the following items:

  • Hiking boots

  • Socks

  • Trekking trousers

  • Waterproof over-trousers

  • Underwear

  • Baselayer shirts (2 short sleeve, 2 long sleeve)

  • Casual shirts and/or T-shirts

  • Fleece jacket or warm jumper

  • Waterproof jacket

  • Warm jacket (down)

  • Sunhat

  • Warm hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Lightweight thermal gloves

  • Warmer gloves or mittens

  • Sleeping bag (comfort rated -20°C) (Sleeping mattresses are provided locally)

  • Daypack 30 - 40 litres

  • Headtorch and spare batteries

  • Basic First Aid Kit including: Antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhoea treatment (Imodium), Diamox, painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite).

  • Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)

  • Water bottles 1 Litre (x2) (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)

  • Water purification tablets
  • Washbag and toiletries

  • Antibacterial handwash

  • Travel towel

  • Selection of dry bags (to keep kit bag contents dry)

  • Small padlock

The following items are optional:

  • Trainers or similar for travelling and camp use

  • Spare laces

  • Gaiters

  • Shorts

  • Thermal baselayer - leggings

  • Sleeping bag liner

  • Travel clothes

  • Trekking poles

  • Insect repellant (DEET) - highly recommended

  • Pen-knife (note: always pack sharp objects in hold baggage)

  • Repair kit – (eg. needle, thread, duct tape)

  • Camera

  • Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Notes

An inflatable camping mattress (thermarest) will be provided.

Cotswold Outdoor Red PantonMany of the Equipment items listed above are available from Cotswold Outdoor - our 'Official Recommended Outdoor Retailer'. When you book a holiday with KE you will receive 12.5% discount voucher from Cotswold Outdoor and other retailers.
>> Find out more

Extensions

Extension Details

Machu Picchu and Cusco Extension

4 Days

The ruins of Machu Picchu, rediscovered in 1911, after 500 years under dense vegetation, are one of the man-made wonders of the world. This itinerary also includes time for sightseeing in and around this former Inca capital of Cusco, which is renowned for the wealth of its Inca stonework and for its extravagant Spanish Colonial architecture. We then take the scenic train to Machu Picchu for a full day guided sightseeing tour of this incredible Inca city before returning to Cusco for a final evening.

Extension Code: MPCU
Sharing Price from
US$880
Single Traveller Price from
US$1,345
Single Room Supplement from
US$140
Deposit Per Person from
US$200

Extension Itinerary

Arrival and overnight in Cusco.

Morning sightseeing tour of Cusco and the main ruin sites. In the afternoon we'll drive to Urubamba in the Sacred Valley of Incas .

Meals

B

Take the tourist train to Aguas Calientes, your guide will be waiting for you on arrival at the station and you will then the bus up to visit Machu Picchu. You will complete one of the circuits around the site guided by a private tour guide. Mid to late afternoon return by train to Ollantaytambo and transfer by private vehicle to your hotel in Cusco.

Meals

B

Transfer to the airport.

Meals

B
Whats Included
  • English speaking guide
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation in a centrally located hotel in Cusco
  • 1 night hotel in Ollantaytambo
  • Meals specified in the itinerary
  • Guided sightseeing tours in Cusco the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
  • All permits and entrance fees
  • transfers on arrival/departure from Cusco
  • All land transport required by the itinerary.
What's Not Included
  • Flights to/from Cusco
  • Tips to local staff
  • Miscellaneous personal expenses
  • Drinks
  • Souvenirs etc.
Extension Details

Galapagos Islands Cruise

7 Days
Situated over 600 miles from the mainland of South America, the remote archipelago of the Galapagos Islands needs little introduction. The Galapagos Islands are considered to the crown jewels of the natural world, achieving near mythological status following visits by Charles Darwin. It was on his second visit aboard HMS Beagle in 1835 that Darwin's scientific studies introduced the world to the theory of evolution. The islands teem with life, much of which seem totally unphased and perhaps curious of visitors. Of the thirteen major islands, on five have any form of human habitation. The environmental footprint is kept to an absolute minimum, allowing you, the visitor, a chance to explore the incredible biodiversity of these famous islands untouched by human development.Expect close encounters with blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, albatross, giant tortoises, seals, turtles and dinasaur-like lizards amongst many, many other examples.
Extension Code: GALP
Sharing Price from
US$5,105
Deposit Per Person from
US$2,400

Extension Itinerary

Arrive in Quito any time.

We take an early flight to San Cristobal Island, stopping off for refuelling at Guayaquil. In the afternoon, we board our boat, the Monserrat, and visit Isla Lobos, to be greeted by sea lions frolicking in the waves. We will explore this island on foot and perhaps by panga to view the sea and shore birds nesting and feeding. There will be an opportunity to snorkel in the waters of Isla Lobos too.

Meals

B L D

We visit Cerro Brujo on San Cristobal Island. Here we can observe sea lions, marine iguanas and seabirds. In the afternoon we visit the giant tortoise breeding area in the highlands. Later we set sail for Bahia Gardner, a sheltered cove off Espanola Island.

Meals

B L D

Today we visit the magnificent, white sandy beach of Gardner Bay, home to colonies of sea lions and birds. There will be a chance to snorkel the turquoise waters and spot large schools of tropical fish, including yellow-tailed surgeonfish, king angelfish and bump-headed parrot fish. We may even be lucky enough to spot white-tipped reef sharks, napping on the bottom! We then visit Punta Suarez, one of the most wildlife-rich landing spots in the Galapagos. Here we can observe many nesting birds including the waved albatross.

Meals

B L D

Upon landing at Punta Cormorant and Floreana Island, we visit the amazing multi-coloured beaches. We observe flamingoes and other shore birds feeding in the lagoon. Penguins and marine iguanas can also be spotted on the water's edge. We then move on to Champion Islet where we have another chance to snorkel with sea lions and, if we're lucky, turtles and rays. Afterwards, we visit Post Office Bay where we learn all about its unique history. English whaling vessels placed a barrel here in the 18th centuary where it functioned as a rather unusual post office!

Meals

B L D

We disembark at Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here we can observe many species of tortoise and land iguanas at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre. We learn about the conservation work and scientific research that is undertaken on this remote archipelago. We than catch our flight back to the mainland, and Quito.

Meals

B

Depart anytime.

Meals

B
Whats Included
  • Return Internal flights from Quito to Baltra and associated airport transfers in the Galapagos Islands
  • Double or twin berth cabin on full board basis (according to itinerary)
  • Cruise on a Tourist Class boat (according to itinerary)
  • Galapagos guide
What's Not Included
  • Galapagos National Park entrance $100 per person ($200 from 1 Aug 2024) payable locally in cash

  • Transit control card $20 per person (must be paid locally in cash)

  • Tips of local staff

  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc

Extension Details

Peru Rainforest Extension

4 Days

Visit Tambopata National Reserve, a haven of pristine Amazon wilderness where the river provides access to an uninhabited and vast 2.5 million acre area, home to the Amazon’s five top predators – Jaguar, Giant Otter, Black Caiman, Harpy Eagle and Anaconda. It is a short flight to Puerto Maldonado, and then a ride in a motorised canoe to our jungle lodge. Highlights are the macaw clay-lick, otters, monkeys and an array of colourful birds.

Extension Code: RAIN
Sharing Price from
US$910
Single Traveller Price from
US$1,140
Single Room Supplement from
US$270
Deposit Per Person from
US$200

Extension Itinerary

Arrive in Puerto Maldonado. We transfer by road, boat (on Tambopata River), and on foot (4-5 hrs in total) to your jungle lodge. To account for this, you should land into Puerto Maldonado no later than 1pm.

Meals

L D

Wildlife Reserve. Jungle walks and river trips. Overnight at the jungle lodge.

Meals

B L D

Wildlife Reserve. Jungle walks and river trips. Overnight at the jungle lodge.

Meals

B L D

Transfer to Puerto Maldonado airport for return flight to Cusco or Lima. (Services end at Puerto Maldonado airport.)

Meals

B
Whats Included
  • Associated transfers
  • All transport required by the itinerary
  • 3 nights accommodation at a jungle lodge
  • Full programme of guided walks and activities
  • Meals as stated in the itinerary
What's Not Included
  • Internal fights
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips
  • Miscellaneous personal expenses
  • Drinks
  • Souvenirs etc.
DATES & PRICES
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