The Inca Trail Ollantaytambo to Wayllabamba
This is the easiest part of the trail. It starts at approximately 2800 m (9,000 ft) along the Urubamba River. The scenery is that of small farms and agriculture land. Cultivation is most prominent near the junction with Cusichaca River. Tall Eucalyptus globulus (Eucalipto) trees dominate the valley floor. These originally Australian trees are now the most important source of timber and firewood in the area. If the trees are in bloom with flowers like fluffy white brushes, they are intensively visited by hummingbirds.Scottish Broom: Spartium junceum (Retama) is another introduced and now rampant species. Nevertheless, the bright yellow flowers (Picture) brighten up the landscape.Tecoma sambucifolia (Huaranhuay) is another bright yellow flowering shrub that is quite common. Near houses the white flowering Sambucus peruviana (Sauco) is planted. Opuntia sp., Schinchus molle (Molle), and Prunus capuli (Capuli) are also common near homesteads.Once you move into the Cusichaca valley you can clearly see the vegetation zones along the slopes (picture). In the valley bottom, there is a scrubby forest with Agave americana (Maguey), , Furcraea andina (Maguey). Cestrum sp., Fuchsia boliviana, Passiflora tripartita, Erythrina edulis (Pisonay) and others. Distinctive is the very spiny "Tara" tree or Caesalpina spinosa.The zone above this low valley forest is low, open scrubland which, when seen from a distance appears as a hazy green layer. This zone is dominated by the low shrub Dodonaea viscosa (Chamana) of the Sapindaceae family. Above this Chamana zone starts grassland or real Puna. Chamana is very flamable but resitant to fire itself. The annual fires started by the farmers to maintain the Puna for pasture kill nearly everything else in the Chamana belt and thus maintain the virtually pure stands of this species.On steep cliffs a number of Bromeliads can be found Puya densiflora is a terrestrial species with narrow, spiny leaves. Tillandsia paleacea is small species with purple flowers growing on rocks. The large Bromeliad covering steep rock slopes is possibly Tillandsia fendleri (picture). The orchid Epidendrum secundum is also found here but not as common as later on near Machu Picchu.A common shrub or small tree near farmhouses higher up the valley is Nicotiana tomentosa (Camasto) which is a type of Tobacco. The plant is not very attractive but usually bears large bunches of pinkish flowers which are simply irresistible to humming birds. It is worth while to wait here and catch a glimpse of the Giant hummingbird. This species is indeed a giant among the hummingbirds and apart from its size it is characterized by its(compared to other hummers at least) slow wing beat.Other hummingbirds I saw here include the Sparkling violet ear (Colibri coruscans) and the Long tailed-sylph (Aglaiocercus kingii).A true gem along this trail is the spiny shrub Barnadesia macbridae/horrida (Llaulli). This plant is an Asteraceae (Compositae) but has very unusual flowers for an Asteraceae. The flowers are shaped as a small trumpet and combined with the bright pink color, it is obvious that the species has evolved to attract Hummingbirds as pollinatorsAnd indeed, Hummingbirds are strongly attracted to the Llaulli flower. Therefore, if you like bird watching, it is good to keep an eye open for this plant.This section of the trail ends in Wayllabamba at approximately 3000 meters (9,400 ft). After here the going will get a lot tougher
Wayllabamba to Phuyopatamarca
This part of the trek is the most strenuous. Soon after you leave Wayllabamba, you can see the next goal; Warmiwañusca at 4265 m (13,650 ft) looming way in the distance. The first section of the trail goes through a similar valley-bottom forest as we saw along the Cusichaca valley. Only it is somewhat higher here, possibly because of diminishing human disturbance. Officially this forest is classified as "Submontane, Subtropical, Very Humid Forest". Species that I noted here include Alnus acuminata/jorulensis, Fuchsia boliviana, Barnadesiamacbridae/horrida (Llaulli), Oreopanax ischnolobus (Maqui Maqui), Passiflora tripartita, Piper elongatum (Moco Moco) Rubus bogotensis, Lycopersicon parviflorum (Climbing with yellow flowers), Duranta armata, Stenomesson pearce (Amarylidaceae), Clusia sp. This forest is quite dense with an understory of ferns. Sometimes the trail comes out of the forest and reaches into the Puna. Such spots are good places to see butterflies. When you dive back into the forest, it has become a "Polylepis forest" This unique forest is dominated by Polylepis spp (Queuña). This forest with its gnarled trees covered with moss and a dense understory of herbs, is quite enchanting. Around every corner you expect a troll or at least a hobbit. No such thing occurs here though, but the forest is teeming with birds.Polylepis belong to the Rosaceae family and is easily recognized by it's pinately compound leaves with expanded petiole base (see drawing right). The thin, flaky, reddish bark and thick trunks with twisting branches are another good characteristic. The genus is strictly Andean and forming almost pure stands at altitudes that should support Puna.Unfortunately, Polylepis forest is one of the most threatened forest types in the world. Originally it covered large areas in the high Andes, but generations of farmers burning the Puna to provide grazing for Llamas and Alpacas have reduced the forest cover immensely. Mature Polylepis can survive fire, but seedlings and young trees can not. As a result, the Polylepis forest shrinks a little after every Puna fire. For more information see the links that I put in the left margin.Ultimately, you leave the forest behind and come into the real Puna. This is an open landscape dominated by grasses (Ichu). This last stretch to the first pass is steep and strenuous. You may see grazing Llamas and Alpacas here. If you are lucky you may see raptors soaring above you. The Condor is very rare and threatened by extinction, so don't have your hopes too high for this one, but the most common larger bird is the Mountain Caracara. This attractive bird often allows close up looks.On top of the Warmiwañusca at 4265 m (13,650 ft) you may want to indulge in a snow fight, if you have any energy left that is. Having come so high, it is kind of depressing to look down on the steep downward trail but there are interesting things to see here. Just below the pass, there is a curious collection of huge boulders, this is where Viscachas live. These rabit-like relatives of the Chinchilla (which is now extinct in the wild) often just sit there on a boulder, looking rather sleepy. They are usually so inactive that you may suspect that they are really just stuffed animals.At the bottom of this slope lies Pacaymayu (3500 m - 11,200 ft). This is the largest camp site along the trail and quite a depressing place because of its frequent overcrowding. The camp lies at the tip of a Polylepis forest that follows the valley towards the Urubamba River, way below. This forest shows clear signs of recent fire damage.From Pacamayu it is up again into the Puna towards the second pass which lies just above Runcurakay. Along the trail grow many Odentoglossum mystacinum orchids.Near the second pass (3963 m - 12,680 ft) there are some small alpine "black water" lakes. Typically there is hardly any vegetation in these lakes, but some of these lakes are now filling up with vegetation. Possibly a result of nutrient input due to vast amounts of hikers and their porters defecating nearby?These lakes are supposedly also good sites to see deer, but I didn't even find any tracks of deer, so they are probably very scarce.
Below the second pass, you plunge back into the Polylepis or Queuña forest. The forest is actually quite similar to a cloud forest. As in a real cloud forest the trees are often laden with Epiphytes such as Bromeliads and Orchids. Very soon you will reach to an more open spot which actually has a Sphagnum or Peat Bog. The vegetation here is low, more like an "elfin forest" Many orchids and other interesting low plants can be found here. Very characteristic is a small treefern (or at least a fern with a trunk) that I initially mistook to be a Cycad.From here on, the last stretch to Phuyopatamarca (3711 m - 11,875 ft) is not that strenuous.
Phuyopatamarca to Machu Picchu
The views from Phuyopatamarca (3711 m - 11,875 ft) are breath taking and you might wish to spend a longer time here. But Machu Picchu is beckoning! The trip is mostly down from now on. Very soon we enter forest again. Initially there is still Polylepis but soon the forest changes and we renew our acquaintance with species as Oreopanax ischnolobus, Alnus acuminata/jorulensis, Clusia sp., Fuchia sp., Piper elongatum etc. Unfortunately, the forest is strongly degraded by past fires.Finally the forest gets a more tropical character. Species found here include Melastomataceae, Anthuriums, Begonia's, Lichens, Mosses etc.An interesting plant is Begonia parviflora. The Begonias that we are familiar with are low herbs that perform very well as a potted plant on our windowsill. But this species is actually a small tree!In spite of the fire damage that is obvious to the trained eye, this forest is again quite enchanting. Also along this road are some of the more amazing Inca sites that the normal visitor to Machu Picchu never gets to see.Finally at the Sun Gate - Inti Puncu (2760 m - 8,800 ft), just after you have lamented "I thought we were supposed to go down", there lies Machu Picchu below you in the haze!This is the reward of a long hike and for many hikers a very emotional moment. From here on it is a long and (unshaded) rush to the site and many might forget to look at the plants along the trail. Particularly common are various orchids such as the Sobralia's and the Winya Wayna or Epidendrum secundum which comes in orange and pink varieties.Once you are in Machu Picchu (2430 m - 7,870 ft) and feeling reckless, you might want to climb the famous Huana Picchu (or Wayna Picchu, the spelling varies)(2640 m - 8,450 ft). After all, it is there! and you are now fully trained!The climb of Huana Picchu however, is something else. It is not that far, but steeper than any other part of the trail. Also, it is rather dangerous. The climb is steep and crowded with people trying to pass each other on narrow stairways. The soil through which the trail is carved is clinging rather precariously on the steep rock and sooner or later parts of it may simply slide down. Hope you are not there when this happens!Should you decide to go, and the weather is nice, you will be rewarded with stunning views and interesting plant life. This is where I finally found the Masdevallia veitschiana orchid Near the entrance gate of the park Erythrina edulis (Pisonay) is common and very colorful. From the entrance gate to Machu Picchu it is still a ways down to Aguas Calientes (2000 m - 6,400 ft). Going down you will notice that the vegetation gradually gets more tropical. This is especially the case at the bottom of the valley where typically tropical plants such as Heliconia become abundant. One noticeable difference with a tropical forest though... you will see no wild palms here (apart from some planted in Hotel gardens)!This concludes my ecological interpretation of the Inca Trail. Much more remains to be said and shown, but there is no space left and you have to discover it on your own. Enjoy!
jueves, 11 de noviembre de 2010
lunes, 20 de septiembre de 2010
Running inca trail Marathon Chaski Challenge Tour (*7 days, 6 nights)
Running inca trail Marathon Chaski Challenge Tour (*7 days, 6 nights)
Includes Inca Trail Marathon
If you are fit, have run marathons and like challenge, then this tour is for you: join us for this incredible trip.
A part of this system were the Chaski, something like a post crew formed by athletic young relay runners prepared to cover quickly the distance between two Chaskiwasi (chaski's house) that had an average of 2.5 Kms. (1.55 miles). Their aim was to carry messages that could be oral or goods with ideo-graphic meanings such as the Qhipu (Inkan accounting system consisting in multicolored knotted strings), textiles with Tokapus (different symbols framed by squares), some other elements engraved or painted, etc. Moreover, the Chaskis had to carry some other important objects for the Inka and certain noblemen: it is traditionally known that the Inka in Qosqo used to eat fresh fish brought from the coast through this system. This service was uninterrupted all day long, besides being sufficiently quick. These young runners transmitting or passing messages could go over from 15 to 20 kms/hour (from 9.5 to 12.5 miles/h), thence from 360 to 480 Kms. per day (from 224 to 298 miles per day).
For this trip, we have highly-trained Guides and an excellent organisation that will enable you to do the trail in just a few hours!!!
http://www.incalandadventures.com/happytourists.html
ITINERARY:
Day 1 : Arrive in Lima. We pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel.
Onernight at casa andina
Day 2 : Lima - Cusco - Flight to Cusco (one hour). We pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel. Free afternoon to relax and explore the city by yourself. At 7pm. You will have a short meeting with the Guides about what to expect on the Inca Trail. B*L*D
Over night at casa andina
Day 3 : Cusco - Sacred Valley - Today we go on the Sacred Valley Tour and enjoy the beauty of this area and its Inca buildings. We will stay the night in Ollantaytambo. B*L*D*
Over night at casa andina
Day 4 : Ollantaytambo - Inca Trail - It´s warm-up day! We will wake-up at 7am and after breakfast we will head to the starting point of our trek - kilometre 77 of the railway between Cusco and Machu Picchu. After a gentle start, we will start running (for approximately 1 hour) to '‘Llactapata’ Inca complex where we will camp. We will have dinner, a short meeting about the next day and an early night. B*L*D*
Overnight at casa andina
Day 5 : Inca Trail - Machu Picchu - After waking up at 4am, we will have breakfast and pack. At 6 am we will start the race of about 24 miles over 3 passes - we will arrive at Machu Picchu in approximately 6 to 9 hours!!!!
There will be aid-stations at crucial parts of the trail, people with juice, fruit, snacks, chocolates, first-aid staff, people with walkie talkies (for emergency) and also people timing you at various points, including at the finishing line: Machu Picchu!!!!
There will be dinner and a big celebration in Aguas Calientes. B*L*D* over night at inti inn
Day 6 : Machu Picchu - Cusco - We will take an early bus up to Machu Picchu and a walking tour of the city (approximately 2 hours) will be given by your guide. After this you can explore the mysterious city by yourselves. If you still have energy you can also climb Huayna Picchu (2720m/8923ft)!!! (It takes 45 minutes to reach the top.)B*L*
You will meet your guide in Aguas Calientes (it can be reached by bus or on foot) for lunch and to be given your train tickets back to Cusco. The train usually leaves at 3.55pm and we will arrive back in Cusco at about 8.45pm. B* overnight at casa andina
Day 7 : Cusco –lima .- transfer to the airport and of our services
Please Note
B*= Breakfast L*= Lunch D* = Dinner.
Dificulty level depends very much on your fitness and aclimatization.
Includes:
. all the fees included
•All hotel accommodation (1 night in tents on the Inca trail)
. 5 nights hotel at casa andina
. All the meals on the trip
•Pick-ups from airports/bus stations to hotels and vice versa
•Breakfast is included in all accommodation (lunch and dinner are included
•1 flight: Lima - Cusco
•Sacred Valley Tour
•Inca Trail Trip
What you need to take
Travel Insurance is essential
Everything is done so that the trek is not a 'roughing it' experience. You will only carry a small day-pack (which should include items such as a waterproof jacket, sun protection cream, insect repellent, water and camera). Porters will carry the rest of your personal belongings.
In this service you can also request your own preffered food!!!!
Private service also means private/special treatment for your porters, they get paid more!
Private Service means that no other people you don't know / want will be part of your trip.
If you are planning to hike the inca trail with your family and children, friends, bride, you are on honeymoon, etc we have right trips for you !
What you need to take:
•Original passport (and *International Student card (ISIC) if applicable)
•Travel Insurance is essential
•Sleeping bag (not included but can be hired from us)
•Walking boots
•Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
•Warm jacket, hat and gloves
•T-shirts
•Comfortable trousers
•Sun hat
•Sun protection cream (factor 35 recommended)
•Re-usable plastic or metal water container or camel bags.
•Water (only for first 4 hours of trek, then we will provide you with drinking -previously boiled- water).
•Insect repellent
•Toiletries
•Personal medication
•Camera and films
•Torch with spare batteries (headlamps are useful)
*To qualify as a student, it is necessary to have a valid ISIC card.
Optional items to take:
•Shorts
•Plasters and bandages
•Sandals
•Extra money
•Bathing suit (for hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
Please see our Terms and Conditions and F.A.Q
Do I need Travel Insurance? travel insurance comparison site where travelers search and compare over 250 travel insurance plans to find the best policy to suit their needs.
Prices
Running Inca trail Marathon Chaski Challenge Tour 7d/ 6 n)
INCA TRAIL RUNNING MARATHON
more info flavio@incalandadventures.com
* Prices For a Person in US Dollars
• http://www.incalandadventures.com/terms-conditions.html
Includes Inca Trail Marathon
If you are fit, have run marathons and like challenge, then this tour is for you: join us for this incredible trip.
A part of this system were the Chaski, something like a post crew formed by athletic young relay runners prepared to cover quickly the distance between two Chaskiwasi (chaski's house) that had an average of 2.5 Kms. (1.55 miles). Their aim was to carry messages that could be oral or goods with ideo-graphic meanings such as the Qhipu (Inkan accounting system consisting in multicolored knotted strings), textiles with Tokapus (different symbols framed by squares), some other elements engraved or painted, etc. Moreover, the Chaskis had to carry some other important objects for the Inka and certain noblemen: it is traditionally known that the Inka in Qosqo used to eat fresh fish brought from the coast through this system. This service was uninterrupted all day long, besides being sufficiently quick. These young runners transmitting or passing messages could go over from 15 to 20 kms/hour (from 9.5 to 12.5 miles/h), thence from 360 to 480 Kms. per day (from 224 to 298 miles per day).
For this trip, we have highly-trained Guides and an excellent organisation that will enable you to do the trail in just a few hours!!!
http://www.incalandadventures.com/happytourists.html
ITINERARY:
Day 1 : Arrive in Lima. We pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel.
Onernight at casa andina
Day 2 : Lima - Cusco - Flight to Cusco (one hour). We pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel. Free afternoon to relax and explore the city by yourself. At 7pm. You will have a short meeting with the Guides about what to expect on the Inca Trail. B*L*D
Over night at casa andina
Day 3 : Cusco - Sacred Valley - Today we go on the Sacred Valley Tour and enjoy the beauty of this area and its Inca buildings. We will stay the night in Ollantaytambo. B*L*D*
Over night at casa andina
Day 4 : Ollantaytambo - Inca Trail - It´s warm-up day! We will wake-up at 7am and after breakfast we will head to the starting point of our trek - kilometre 77 of the railway between Cusco and Machu Picchu. After a gentle start, we will start running (for approximately 1 hour) to '‘Llactapata’ Inca complex where we will camp. We will have dinner, a short meeting about the next day and an early night. B*L*D*
Overnight at casa andina
Day 5 : Inca Trail - Machu Picchu - After waking up at 4am, we will have breakfast and pack. At 6 am we will start the race of about 24 miles over 3 passes - we will arrive at Machu Picchu in approximately 6 to 9 hours!!!!
There will be aid-stations at crucial parts of the trail, people with juice, fruit, snacks, chocolates, first-aid staff, people with walkie talkies (for emergency) and also people timing you at various points, including at the finishing line: Machu Picchu!!!!
There will be dinner and a big celebration in Aguas Calientes. B*L*D* over night at inti inn
Day 6 : Machu Picchu - Cusco - We will take an early bus up to Machu Picchu and a walking tour of the city (approximately 2 hours) will be given by your guide. After this you can explore the mysterious city by yourselves. If you still have energy you can also climb Huayna Picchu (2720m/8923ft)!!! (It takes 45 minutes to reach the top.)B*L*
You will meet your guide in Aguas Calientes (it can be reached by bus or on foot) for lunch and to be given your train tickets back to Cusco. The train usually leaves at 3.55pm and we will arrive back in Cusco at about 8.45pm. B* overnight at casa andina
Day 7 : Cusco –lima .- transfer to the airport and of our services
Please Note
B*= Breakfast L*= Lunch D* = Dinner.
Dificulty level depends very much on your fitness and aclimatization.
Includes:
. all the fees included
•All hotel accommodation (1 night in tents on the Inca trail)
. 5 nights hotel at casa andina
. All the meals on the trip
•Pick-ups from airports/bus stations to hotels and vice versa
•Breakfast is included in all accommodation (lunch and dinner are included
•1 flight: Lima - Cusco
•Sacred Valley Tour
•Inca Trail Trip
What you need to take
Travel Insurance is essential
Everything is done so that the trek is not a 'roughing it' experience. You will only carry a small day-pack (which should include items such as a waterproof jacket, sun protection cream, insect repellent, water and camera). Porters will carry the rest of your personal belongings.
In this service you can also request your own preffered food!!!!
Private service also means private/special treatment for your porters, they get paid more!
Private Service means that no other people you don't know / want will be part of your trip.
If you are planning to hike the inca trail with your family and children, friends, bride, you are on honeymoon, etc we have right trips for you !
What you need to take:
•Original passport (and *International Student card (ISIC) if applicable)
•Travel Insurance is essential
•Sleeping bag (not included but can be hired from us)
•Walking boots
•Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
•Warm jacket, hat and gloves
•T-shirts
•Comfortable trousers
•Sun hat
•Sun protection cream (factor 35 recommended)
•Re-usable plastic or metal water container or camel bags.
•Water (only for first 4 hours of trek, then we will provide you with drinking -previously boiled- water).
•Insect repellent
•Toiletries
•Personal medication
•Camera and films
•Torch with spare batteries (headlamps are useful)
*To qualify as a student, it is necessary to have a valid ISIC card.
Optional items to take:
•Shorts
•Plasters and bandages
•Sandals
•Extra money
•Bathing suit (for hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
Please see our Terms and Conditions and F.A.Q
Do I need Travel Insurance? travel insurance comparison site where travelers search and compare over 250 travel insurance plans to find the best policy to suit their needs.
Prices
Running Inca trail Marathon Chaski Challenge Tour 7d/ 6 n)
INCA TRAIL RUNNING MARATHON
more info flavio@incalandadventures.com
* Prices For a Person in US Dollars
• http://www.incalandadventures.com/terms-conditions.html
INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU AND CIRCUIT AROUND MOUNT AUSANGATE 14d/13n 5 night camping
INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU AND CIRCUIT AROUND MOUNT AUSANGATE 14d/13n 5 night camping
Reserve your 2011 entry today!
Don't miss the original classic pilgrimage trail to Machu Picchu. New regulations limit the number of people on the Inca Trail. Inca Trail permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and are non-transferable. To ensure your spot we recommend that you reserve at least 6 months in advance!
RETURN TO TRIP SUMMARY
Land cost: Single Supplement, if requested. $550
Day 1: Lima/Cusco .- This morning you will be met at the Lima airport by an Andes Adventures representative, who will assist you with connecting flights to Cusco. Depart on a one-hour flight to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Upon arrival in Cusco, we transfer to the hotel where a traditional welcome cup of coca leaf tea is served to help with the acclimatization to the 11,150 feet altitude. This morning we will have a guided sightseeing tour of the city, visiting the Cathedral, Qorikancha, the most important temple of the Inca empire and the Santo Domingo Monastery. You will receive a tourist ticket valid for the length of the trip enabling you to visit the many archaeological sites, temples and other places of interest. Welcome dinner and overnight in Cusco. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: L, D.
Today's run: None scheduled.
Day 2: Cusco .- Morning visit to the archaeological sites surrounding Cusco, beginning with the fortress and temple of Sacsayhuaman, perched on a hillside overlooking Cusco at 12,136 feet. It is still a mystery how this fortress was constructed. Gigantic stones, some of them weighing 125 tons, were carved into huge trapezoidal blocks that fit together with extraordinary precision. The tour continues with visits to the semicircular shrine of Kenko, Puca Pucara and the Royal Baths of Tambomachay, a beautiful ceremonial bath, adorned with waterfalls, which continues to flow 500 years after being built.
Following the tour, we run downhill to Cusco, passing through the village of Yuncaypata, and the Temple of the Moon. We enter Cusco through San Blas and finish at the Plaza de Armas. After lunch, we will spend the afternoon relaxing, shopping and sightseeing in beautiful Cusco and its surroundings. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 4.5 miles.
Day 3: Chinchero/Yucay .- Continuing to Urubamba, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, we travel across a high plain with splendid views of the Cordillera Urubamba to the ancient Inca town of Chinchero at 12,350 feet. There, we will visit a highland home and observe a demonstration of the traditional weaving process and shop for local handicrafts. Acclimatization run, starting on flat terrain, passing through the salt mines of Maras and finishing down a scenic trail leading to the Urubamba River. Overnight in the town of Yucay. Overnight: Sonesta Posada del Inca Hotel in Yucay. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 5 to 8 mile options.
Day 4: River rafting /Llactapata .- We are picked up at the hotel for a two hour whitewater adventure on the Urubamba River where everyone shares in the paddling. Trained river guides will give us a safety and familiarization orientation. Instead of rafting you may choose to take a nature hike or run. We have a light lunch in Ollantaytambo and continue on a short ride by bus to the trailhead at km 82 "Piscacucho," where we begin our run to km 88 "Qoriwayrachina." There we enter the Machu Picchu Sanctuary National Park. About a mile later we arrive at our camp in the archaeological site of Llactapata "Town on Hillside" at 8,400 feet. Upon arrival in camp we enjoy hot coca tea and a great view of the Urubamba mountain range. Overnight: Camp at Llactapata. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: About 6.5 miles along the Urubamba River with a shorter option available.
Note: The point of entrance to the Inca Trail is subject to change due to permit requirements.
Day 5: llactapata Phuyupatamarca .- Early breakfast and start of our Inca Trail run*. The trail continues along the Cusichaca River and follows it upstream on a gradual climb for another three miles leaving behind the Urubamba valley and a magnificent view of snow-capped Mount Veronica (18,865'), the highest peak in the Cordillera Urubamba. We reach the village of Wayllabamba at 9,100 feet, the last inhabited village on the Inca trail. Penetrating the spectacular Llulluchayoc gorge; the trail becomes steeper as we enter mossy woods and continue our uphil climb through a thick forest, before emerging into a large meadow "pampa", Llulluchapampa high above tree line at about 12,400 feet. We continue to Warmiwañusq'a pass "Pass of the Dead Woman" at 13,779 feet, the highest pass in the Inca Trail. A short rocky descent into the valley brings us to Pacaymayo River. We will have an aid station here. Ascending steps, we begin the climb towards Runkurakay pass. On the way we encounter the Runkurakay watchtower ruins at 12,464 feet and pass by a couple of small lakes, before reaching the Runkurakay pass at 13,100 feet. From here you will have excellent views of the glaciated peaks of the Cordillera Vilcabamba. Most of the climb is behind us; the trail descends rocky slopes and reaches the strategic fortress of Sayacmarca "Dominant Town" at 12,234 feet. Beyond Sayacmarca the trail enters dense groves and you will find impressive evidence of Inca road construction, with its six feet wide and carefully constructed stone-paved trails. An amazing engineering accomplishment! We will negotiate a 20 meter Inca tunnel with carved steps and soon the trail becomes a magnificent stone staircase leading to Phuyupatamarca "Town in the Clouds" at 11,674 feet. We summit the third pass and have our first look into the deep gorge of the Urubamba River and reach our camp in Phuyupatamarca.
*Runners have the option to run the "Inca Trail Marathon" and continue to Machu Picchu.
Overnight: Camp at Phuyupatamarca. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 17 miles
Day 6: Machu Picchu .- The trail follows down a series of hundreds of steps, passing by ceremonial Inca baths where mountain water still flows through carved stone channels. As we descend into the cloud forest, we will be surrounded by abundance of exotic varieties of plants, orchids and flowers until reaching the ruins of Wiñay Wayna "Forever Young." We run down a dirt trail about three and a half miles to Intipunku "Gateway of the Sun" at 8,860 feet. Suddenly, the full grandeur of the world's greatest ruins are revealed, the domed peak of Huayna Picchu and the lost City of the Incas, MACHU PICCHU at 7,900 feet. Our evening includes Machu Picchu Pueblo (previously known as Aguas Calientes), where we will enjoy a celebration dinner. Overnight: El Mapi Hotel Machu Picchu.Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 10.5 miles.
Day 7: Machu Picchu .- We spend the early part of the morning with our expert guide, for a tour of the mysterious city, its magnificent temples, terraced hillsides, archaeological curiosities, irrigation channels, fountains, elaborate stone work and chambers of unknown purpose. As we listen to the theories about the mysteries of Machu Picchu, we wonder how and why this city was built in such a remote place and what its purpose might have been. Fortunately this outstanding citadel was never discovered by the Spaniards and was spared from destruction. After lunch at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, continue exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu, or relax in Aguas Calientes. You may also choose from several additional (unguided) activities such as a moderate hike or run to the Inca Bridge; a more strenuous hike to the 9,500 feet summit of Machu Picchu mountain; or a steep climb to the airy summit of Huayna Picchu at 9,000 feet.
Overnight: El Mapi Hotel Machu Picchu. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: Optional distances.
Day 8: Ollantaytambo/Pisac/Cusco .-This morning we board the train to Urubamba. Upon arrival we visit the village of Ollanta and Ollantaytambo, the best surviving example of an Inca town. Most of its buildings sit upon Inca walls and the street plan is still the original laid out by its Inca builders. Its stonework, narrow cobbled streets, family courtyards and water system is exactly as it was built in Inca times. You will be able to appreciate the Inca agricultural terraces that create small tiers of fertile land on very steep slopes. After lunch in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, we continue by bus to visit the Andean village of Pisac. Our guide takes us through the village to visit its colorful market where extensive selections of colorful weavings, ceramics, sweaters and other handicrafts are sold at bargain prices. The afternoon is free for shopping and enjoying Cusco. Dinner and overnight in Cusco. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: Optional distances.
Day 9: cusco Tinqui .- This morning, we are picked up at the hotel for a 2 1/2 hour drive to the trailhead of the Ausangate circuit, in the highland village of Tinqui at 12,400 feet. We enjoy authentic Sunday markets as we drive by the Andean towns of Andahuaylillas, Urcos and Ccauri. We continue to Ocongate before reaching the village of Tinqui. Overnight in a rustic hotel. Overnight: Rustic lodgings in Tinqui. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: None scheduled.
Day 10:tinki Upis .- We start our uphill run crossing the Mapocho River. The terrain turns into open arid grasslands known as puna. Scattered clumps of coarse grasses, collectively called ichu, characterize the treeless puna. This highland grass is used for roof thatch and fodder for grazing llamas and alpacas. We run over rolling hills passing by stone walls and a few thatched houses. The trail continues up toward the north face of Mount Ausangate (20,905'), considered by these highlanders as the sacred Apu "Mountain Spirit." We will run to Huahuayocrumi at 14,765 feet, before descending into Upis at 14,400 feet. We camp by the thermal pools. Overnight: Upis Camp. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 8 miles.
Day 11: upis Jampa .- We start early this morning crossing the green Upismayo valley, filled with grazing llamas and alpacas. We climb up to Arapa pass at 15,585 feet and descend to Laguna Pucacocha at 15,080 feet. We will have an aid station here. We have excellent views of the surrounding lakes and the glaciated west face of Mount Ausangate. We will continue up the Apacheta pass at 15,750 feet and descend to Lake Ausangatecocha, followed by the highest pass, the Palomani pass at 16,600 feet; with great views of Ausangate (20,905') and Santa Catalina (19,055'). In these high mountains, we might see the giant condor soaring high in the blue skies, and a variety of highland birds like coots, Andean geese, cacaraca, hawks, puna ibis as well as the marmot-like vizcacha and others. These remote mountains areas are also refuges for the vicuña. We descend toward Pampacancha at 14,900 feet, we will have an aid station here. We continue to Uchuy Finaya on the south side of Mount Ausangate and run along the Jampamayo River valley, passing the remote village of Jampa. The views are overwhelming with the glaciers and the snow-capped mountains surrounding us; Colque-Cruz (19,554'), Puca Punta and Tres Picos (19,990'). A short climb brings us to Jampa, our highest camp at 15,500 feet.
Overnight: Jampa Camp. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 21.5 miles.
Day 12 :jampa Pacchanta .- Today we climb the Campa Pass (16,400'), where we will be surrounded by spectacular views of glaciers and ice covered peaks. Looking down on our trail, we will see Lakes Comercocha and Caycocha. From the pass, we descend to Lake Minaparayoc. A moderate downhill takes us to the village of Pacchanta at 13,950 feet. We will enjoy a specially prepared traditional "pachamanca" dinner feast, prepared in an ancient Quechua method of cooking meat and vegetables underground with heated stones. We camp for the night and enjoy the local hot springs. Overnight: Pacchanta Camp. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 9.5 miles.
Day 13: Tinqui/Cusco .-Our last day on the circuit we continue to enjoy magnificent alpine scenery, with views of Mount Ausangate and the nearby snow-capped peaks of the Vilcanota range. We run by the small communities of Cullpacata, Yanama, Mojonpata and Quimsapuccio giving us our last chance to see remote Andean villagers. Herds of llamas, alpacas and their herders, in their colorful traditional clothing, work along the hillsides. Most speak no Spanish, only the ancient Quechua language. After returning to Tinqui we drive back to Cusco. The afternoon is free for last-minute shopping and enjoying Cusco. Tonight we'll have our farewell dinner in one of Cusco's finest restaurants. Overnight in Cusco. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 6 miles.
Day 14: Cusco/Lima .- After an early breakfast, transfer to the Cusco airport for the flight to Lima. We will be met at the airport and transferred to a hotel in the residential district of Miraflores, where a day use room is available. After lunch, we are picked up at the hotel and taken on a sightseeing guided city tour of colonial and modern Lima. Highlights include Lima’s Cathedral, government palace in Plaza Mayor, San Francisco monastery, San Isidro, Miraflores and a scenic view of the coastline. Those departing tonight transfer to the airport and depart on homeward-bound flights.
How many years has Inca Land Adventures been in business?
Inca Land Adventures was founded in 2007. We specialize exclusively in peru . Our all-inclusive itineraries provide high quality trips at prices that are unmatched by any other adventure travel company. A claim that we can proudly guarantee!
Why are Inca Land Adventures trips are a lot less expensive than other companies?
Compare us with other companies offering adventure travel, you will find that we charge a lot less for similar programs. We are able to provide these low prices and keep costs down because we plan, organize and operate all our trips directly. We do not use an operator in any of our destinations; that alone saves you at least 30% to 40% of the cost. For the same reason we can also guarantee the quality of our adventures. We do not work with travel agents; therefore no additional cost for commission is added to our prices saving you an additional 15% to 20%. We keep our overhead low, and we carefully control our office and printing expenses. Nevertheless, Andes Adventures never compromises the quality of the trips in any way. We include excellent accommodations, all or most meals, tours & many other extras. Compare our adventures and prices with other well known companies and you will find that our itineraries include much more than comparable trips.
What's included in all Inca Land Adventures trips?
Our packages are all-inclusive and save you in every category. See details below and compare to any other company.
•All airport transfers and ground transportation as scheduled on itinerary.
•All accommodations are based on double occupancy.
•All off-trail accommodations in Perú are in fine hotels. When camping, we use roomy, high quality tents.
•All accommodations are in fine hotels and beautiful historic haciendas.
•All or most meals are included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. (B, L, D) Vegetarian meals will be provided upon request in advance.
•All sightseeing tours, including all Park entrance fees on the itinerary.
•Services of professional tour guides/trip leaders.
Items that are not included in our trips: International airfare, internal flights, airport departure taxes, travel insurance (highly recommended), excess baggage fees, passport fees, Chilean reciprocity tax, optional tips to trip leader, guides and local staff, additional hotel nights that may be needed to accommodate your airline schedule, items of personal nature such as: sleeping bag, personal gear, laundry, telephone calls, beverages, etc..
What kind of trips does Inca Land Adventures offer?
We are the pioneers in mountain Running Adventures in South America. We operate the finest organized Trekking Adventures and sightseeing Tours in Peru,
What is the difference between a tour and a trekking Adventure?
On our tours you fly, drive, take a train or sail. You stay at fine accommodations. The walking is limited and rated "easy to moderate". Some optional outdoor activities are offered. Tours are generally physically non-demanding.
On our trekking adventures, you will be staying at the same fine accommodations in the cities and on other days you will hike from camp to camp with a light daypack. You will be pleasantly surprised by the level of comfort that is provided in our camps! Porters and pack animals carry all the equipment and our staff takes care of everything while our cook prepares delicious meals. We provide spacious tents, dining tents, toilet tents, hot basin washing water and all camping equipment.
Your running adventures look challenging. How strong a runner do I need to be?
Runners from 18 to 78 have participated in our running adventures. Many have not run a marathon. Some have never run on a trail before, or spent the night in a tent. If you run regularly, can comfortably run 10-15 miles in rolling terrain, and are fit and healthy, you should find our running adventures to be an exhilarating and rewarding experience. Our running adventures are for runners of all abilities. Plenty of support is provided on the trail so you can enjoy it at your own pace. Have questions? Give us a call 01 51 84 275973
What is the maximum group size?
Our trekking and tour groups in all Peru Adventures, including Inca Trail are always small - 7 to 16 participants maximum.
Do you arrange Private trips?
Yes, we can arrange Private trips to Peru for individuals, families, clubs, institutions and corporations. Choose any date that fits your group's plans. If you are planning to hike the Inca Trail Trekking Adventure, permits have to be purchased at least 4 to 5 months in advance (depending on time of year) to guarantee the spaces. If you are planning to do the Wonders of Peru Tour without the hike, no permits are required; but if you want to hike to Machu Picchu instead of taking the train, the same advanced registration is required to obtain the permits. Please contact us for more information.
What are the accommodations like?
Our trips include accommodations in first class fine hotels. Many of our itineraries include links to the hotel web sites.
What if I'm traveling alone?
If you are traveling alone and prefer single accommodations you must pay the single supplement. If you are willing to share accommodations, we will try our best to find a roommate and if that is not possible you will pay only 75% of the single supplement cost.
What kind of arrangements will we have on the Inca Trail?
On the Inca Trail in Peru you can expect the most complete support. We provide first-class camping and trekking services by experienced Andean guides, camp and cook staff, assisted by red blue train porters. All meals: Wake up tea, breakfast, lunch, tea meal and dinner. All quality group camping equipment: excellent personal tents, thermarest pads, dining and kitchen tents, tables, camp stools, toilet tents.
What is the food like?
All or most meals are included on our trips. You will be treated to an extensive variety of fabulous Peruvian cuisine. We choose the finest restaurants in the cities to give you the opportunity to taste a great variety of local delicacies and flavors. In camps our cooks are experts in preparing nourishing wholesome and delicious meals. We will accommodate any special diet requests you may have including vegetarian, please request prior to the trip.
About our trip leaders/guides.
Our experienced local bilingual trip leaders/guides are the key to making each trip a unique adventure and we provide the very best. They have in-depth knowledge of the language, customs, culture and history. They take great pleasure in sharing their insights and expertise and will make your adventure an unforgettable experience. Leaders are detail oriented, making sure everything runs safely and smoothly.
Pre-trip planning.
As soon as you sign up, you will receive detailed pre-departure material, including information on the country, check list of items to bring, insurance application and other information to help you prepare for your trip. Airline tickets and final trip details will be send about a month before departure.
Does Inca Land Adventures offer any group discounts?
Yes, we offer discounts for a party of 16 participants reserving at the same time and traveling together. Consult with us on the specific trip that you are considering.
How do I sign up for an Andes Adventures trip?
Send us a completed application and a $400 deposit. A second payment of $600 is due 90 days prior to departure. Full payment must be received 60 days prior to departure.
We recommend you sign up as early as possible. Our group sizes are small and they fill up quickly. New regulations limit the number of people on the Inca Trail. Permits are available only on a first-come, first serve basis. To guarantee your spot on the Inca Trail we recommend that you reserve at least 6 months in advance!
Should I buy travel insurance?
We highly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, you will receive an application for travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance
Travel Insured offers several types of coverage. We strongly recommend one of the Comprehensive Plans because of the Trip Cancellation benefit. The policy we suggest is the "Worldwide Trip Protector". Plans include a provision to waive the exclusion for Pre-Existing Conditions if you purchase the coverage within 14 days of your initial trip deposit.
Will I need a visa?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to go to Peru . U.S. citizens need a visa to go to Bolivia. Other nationalities do not require a visa. Please consult with us!
What are the penalties for canceling my trip?
Cancellation fees are computed, as of the date we receive your written cancellation notice, as follows
Cancellation Fees For Perú,
•More than 90 days before departure - $200
•89 to 61 days before departure - $300
•60 to 31 days before departure - 50% of selling price
•30 days or less to departure 100% of selling price
Prices
INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU AND CIRCUIT AROUND MOUNT AUSANGATE 15d/14n 5 night camping
INCA TRAIL ,AUSANGATE RUNNING MARATHON
for more conta flavio@incalandadventures.com
* Prices For a Person in US Dollars
• http://www.incalandadventures.com/terms-conditions.html
Reserve your 2011 entry today!
Don't miss the original classic pilgrimage trail to Machu Picchu. New regulations limit the number of people on the Inca Trail. Inca Trail permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and are non-transferable. To ensure your spot we recommend that you reserve at least 6 months in advance!
RETURN TO TRIP SUMMARY
Land cost: Single Supplement, if requested. $550
Day 1: Lima/Cusco .- This morning you will be met at the Lima airport by an Andes Adventures representative, who will assist you with connecting flights to Cusco. Depart on a one-hour flight to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Upon arrival in Cusco, we transfer to the hotel where a traditional welcome cup of coca leaf tea is served to help with the acclimatization to the 11,150 feet altitude. This morning we will have a guided sightseeing tour of the city, visiting the Cathedral, Qorikancha, the most important temple of the Inca empire and the Santo Domingo Monastery. You will receive a tourist ticket valid for the length of the trip enabling you to visit the many archaeological sites, temples and other places of interest. Welcome dinner and overnight in Cusco. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: L, D.
Today's run: None scheduled.
Day 2: Cusco .- Morning visit to the archaeological sites surrounding Cusco, beginning with the fortress and temple of Sacsayhuaman, perched on a hillside overlooking Cusco at 12,136 feet. It is still a mystery how this fortress was constructed. Gigantic stones, some of them weighing 125 tons, were carved into huge trapezoidal blocks that fit together with extraordinary precision. The tour continues with visits to the semicircular shrine of Kenko, Puca Pucara and the Royal Baths of Tambomachay, a beautiful ceremonial bath, adorned with waterfalls, which continues to flow 500 years after being built.
Following the tour, we run downhill to Cusco, passing through the village of Yuncaypata, and the Temple of the Moon. We enter Cusco through San Blas and finish at the Plaza de Armas. After lunch, we will spend the afternoon relaxing, shopping and sightseeing in beautiful Cusco and its surroundings. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 4.5 miles.
Day 3: Chinchero/Yucay .- Continuing to Urubamba, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, we travel across a high plain with splendid views of the Cordillera Urubamba to the ancient Inca town of Chinchero at 12,350 feet. There, we will visit a highland home and observe a demonstration of the traditional weaving process and shop for local handicrafts. Acclimatization run, starting on flat terrain, passing through the salt mines of Maras and finishing down a scenic trail leading to the Urubamba River. Overnight in the town of Yucay. Overnight: Sonesta Posada del Inca Hotel in Yucay. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 5 to 8 mile options.
Day 4: River rafting /Llactapata .- We are picked up at the hotel for a two hour whitewater adventure on the Urubamba River where everyone shares in the paddling. Trained river guides will give us a safety and familiarization orientation. Instead of rafting you may choose to take a nature hike or run. We have a light lunch in Ollantaytambo and continue on a short ride by bus to the trailhead at km 82 "Piscacucho," where we begin our run to km 88 "Qoriwayrachina." There we enter the Machu Picchu Sanctuary National Park. About a mile later we arrive at our camp in the archaeological site of Llactapata "Town on Hillside" at 8,400 feet. Upon arrival in camp we enjoy hot coca tea and a great view of the Urubamba mountain range. Overnight: Camp at Llactapata. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: About 6.5 miles along the Urubamba River with a shorter option available.
Note: The point of entrance to the Inca Trail is subject to change due to permit requirements.
Day 5: llactapata Phuyupatamarca .- Early breakfast and start of our Inca Trail run*. The trail continues along the Cusichaca River and follows it upstream on a gradual climb for another three miles leaving behind the Urubamba valley and a magnificent view of snow-capped Mount Veronica (18,865'), the highest peak in the Cordillera Urubamba. We reach the village of Wayllabamba at 9,100 feet, the last inhabited village on the Inca trail. Penetrating the spectacular Llulluchayoc gorge; the trail becomes steeper as we enter mossy woods and continue our uphil climb through a thick forest, before emerging into a large meadow "pampa", Llulluchapampa high above tree line at about 12,400 feet. We continue to Warmiwañusq'a pass "Pass of the Dead Woman" at 13,779 feet, the highest pass in the Inca Trail. A short rocky descent into the valley brings us to Pacaymayo River. We will have an aid station here. Ascending steps, we begin the climb towards Runkurakay pass. On the way we encounter the Runkurakay watchtower ruins at 12,464 feet and pass by a couple of small lakes, before reaching the Runkurakay pass at 13,100 feet. From here you will have excellent views of the glaciated peaks of the Cordillera Vilcabamba. Most of the climb is behind us; the trail descends rocky slopes and reaches the strategic fortress of Sayacmarca "Dominant Town" at 12,234 feet. Beyond Sayacmarca the trail enters dense groves and you will find impressive evidence of Inca road construction, with its six feet wide and carefully constructed stone-paved trails. An amazing engineering accomplishment! We will negotiate a 20 meter Inca tunnel with carved steps and soon the trail becomes a magnificent stone staircase leading to Phuyupatamarca "Town in the Clouds" at 11,674 feet. We summit the third pass and have our first look into the deep gorge of the Urubamba River and reach our camp in Phuyupatamarca.
*Runners have the option to run the "Inca Trail Marathon" and continue to Machu Picchu.
Overnight: Camp at Phuyupatamarca. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 17 miles
Day 6: Machu Picchu .- The trail follows down a series of hundreds of steps, passing by ceremonial Inca baths where mountain water still flows through carved stone channels. As we descend into the cloud forest, we will be surrounded by abundance of exotic varieties of plants, orchids and flowers until reaching the ruins of Wiñay Wayna "Forever Young." We run down a dirt trail about three and a half miles to Intipunku "Gateway of the Sun" at 8,860 feet. Suddenly, the full grandeur of the world's greatest ruins are revealed, the domed peak of Huayna Picchu and the lost City of the Incas, MACHU PICCHU at 7,900 feet. Our evening includes Machu Picchu Pueblo (previously known as Aguas Calientes), where we will enjoy a celebration dinner. Overnight: El Mapi Hotel Machu Picchu.Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 10.5 miles.
Day 7: Machu Picchu .- We spend the early part of the morning with our expert guide, for a tour of the mysterious city, its magnificent temples, terraced hillsides, archaeological curiosities, irrigation channels, fountains, elaborate stone work and chambers of unknown purpose. As we listen to the theories about the mysteries of Machu Picchu, we wonder how and why this city was built in such a remote place and what its purpose might have been. Fortunately this outstanding citadel was never discovered by the Spaniards and was spared from destruction. After lunch at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, continue exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu, or relax in Aguas Calientes. You may also choose from several additional (unguided) activities such as a moderate hike or run to the Inca Bridge; a more strenuous hike to the 9,500 feet summit of Machu Picchu mountain; or a steep climb to the airy summit of Huayna Picchu at 9,000 feet.
Overnight: El Mapi Hotel Machu Picchu. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: Optional distances.
Day 8: Ollantaytambo/Pisac/Cusco .-This morning we board the train to Urubamba. Upon arrival we visit the village of Ollanta and Ollantaytambo, the best surviving example of an Inca town. Most of its buildings sit upon Inca walls and the street plan is still the original laid out by its Inca builders. Its stonework, narrow cobbled streets, family courtyards and water system is exactly as it was built in Inca times. You will be able to appreciate the Inca agricultural terraces that create small tiers of fertile land on very steep slopes. After lunch in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, we continue by bus to visit the Andean village of Pisac. Our guide takes us through the village to visit its colorful market where extensive selections of colorful weavings, ceramics, sweaters and other handicrafts are sold at bargain prices. The afternoon is free for shopping and enjoying Cusco. Dinner and overnight in Cusco. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: Optional distances.
Day 9: cusco Tinqui .- This morning, we are picked up at the hotel for a 2 1/2 hour drive to the trailhead of the Ausangate circuit, in the highland village of Tinqui at 12,400 feet. We enjoy authentic Sunday markets as we drive by the Andean towns of Andahuaylillas, Urcos and Ccauri. We continue to Ocongate before reaching the village of Tinqui. Overnight in a rustic hotel. Overnight: Rustic lodgings in Tinqui. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: None scheduled.
Day 10:tinki Upis .- We start our uphill run crossing the Mapocho River. The terrain turns into open arid grasslands known as puna. Scattered clumps of coarse grasses, collectively called ichu, characterize the treeless puna. This highland grass is used for roof thatch and fodder for grazing llamas and alpacas. We run over rolling hills passing by stone walls and a few thatched houses. The trail continues up toward the north face of Mount Ausangate (20,905'), considered by these highlanders as the sacred Apu "Mountain Spirit." We will run to Huahuayocrumi at 14,765 feet, before descending into Upis at 14,400 feet. We camp by the thermal pools. Overnight: Upis Camp. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 8 miles.
Day 11: upis Jampa .- We start early this morning crossing the green Upismayo valley, filled with grazing llamas and alpacas. We climb up to Arapa pass at 15,585 feet and descend to Laguna Pucacocha at 15,080 feet. We will have an aid station here. We have excellent views of the surrounding lakes and the glaciated west face of Mount Ausangate. We will continue up the Apacheta pass at 15,750 feet and descend to Lake Ausangatecocha, followed by the highest pass, the Palomani pass at 16,600 feet; with great views of Ausangate (20,905') and Santa Catalina (19,055'). In these high mountains, we might see the giant condor soaring high in the blue skies, and a variety of highland birds like coots, Andean geese, cacaraca, hawks, puna ibis as well as the marmot-like vizcacha and others. These remote mountains areas are also refuges for the vicuña. We descend toward Pampacancha at 14,900 feet, we will have an aid station here. We continue to Uchuy Finaya on the south side of Mount Ausangate and run along the Jampamayo River valley, passing the remote village of Jampa. The views are overwhelming with the glaciers and the snow-capped mountains surrounding us; Colque-Cruz (19,554'), Puca Punta and Tres Picos (19,990'). A short climb brings us to Jampa, our highest camp at 15,500 feet.
Overnight: Jampa Camp. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 21.5 miles.
Day 12 :jampa Pacchanta .- Today we climb the Campa Pass (16,400'), where we will be surrounded by spectacular views of glaciers and ice covered peaks. Looking down on our trail, we will see Lakes Comercocha and Caycocha. From the pass, we descend to Lake Minaparayoc. A moderate downhill takes us to the village of Pacchanta at 13,950 feet. We will enjoy a specially prepared traditional "pachamanca" dinner feast, prepared in an ancient Quechua method of cooking meat and vegetables underground with heated stones. We camp for the night and enjoy the local hot springs. Overnight: Pacchanta Camp. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 9.5 miles.
Day 13: Tinqui/Cusco .-Our last day on the circuit we continue to enjoy magnificent alpine scenery, with views of Mount Ausangate and the nearby snow-capped peaks of the Vilcanota range. We run by the small communities of Cullpacata, Yanama, Mojonpata and Quimsapuccio giving us our last chance to see remote Andean villagers. Herds of llamas, alpacas and their herders, in their colorful traditional clothing, work along the hillsides. Most speak no Spanish, only the ancient Quechua language. After returning to Tinqui we drive back to Cusco. The afternoon is free for last-minute shopping and enjoying Cusco. Tonight we'll have our farewell dinner in one of Cusco's finest restaurants. Overnight in Cusco. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 6 miles.
Day 14: Cusco/Lima .- After an early breakfast, transfer to the Cusco airport for the flight to Lima. We will be met at the airport and transferred to a hotel in the residential district of Miraflores, where a day use room is available. After lunch, we are picked up at the hotel and taken on a sightseeing guided city tour of colonial and modern Lima. Highlights include Lima’s Cathedral, government palace in Plaza Mayor, San Francisco monastery, San Isidro, Miraflores and a scenic view of the coastline. Those departing tonight transfer to the airport and depart on homeward-bound flights.
How many years has Inca Land Adventures been in business?
Inca Land Adventures was founded in 2007. We specialize exclusively in peru . Our all-inclusive itineraries provide high quality trips at prices that are unmatched by any other adventure travel company. A claim that we can proudly guarantee!
Why are Inca Land Adventures trips are a lot less expensive than other companies?
Compare us with other companies offering adventure travel, you will find that we charge a lot less for similar programs. We are able to provide these low prices and keep costs down because we plan, organize and operate all our trips directly. We do not use an operator in any of our destinations; that alone saves you at least 30% to 40% of the cost. For the same reason we can also guarantee the quality of our adventures. We do not work with travel agents; therefore no additional cost for commission is added to our prices saving you an additional 15% to 20%. We keep our overhead low, and we carefully control our office and printing expenses. Nevertheless, Andes Adventures never compromises the quality of the trips in any way. We include excellent accommodations, all or most meals, tours & many other extras. Compare our adventures and prices with other well known companies and you will find that our itineraries include much more than comparable trips.
What's included in all Inca Land Adventures trips?
Our packages are all-inclusive and save you in every category. See details below and compare to any other company.
•All airport transfers and ground transportation as scheduled on itinerary.
•All accommodations are based on double occupancy.
•All off-trail accommodations in Perú are in fine hotels. When camping, we use roomy, high quality tents.
•All accommodations are in fine hotels and beautiful historic haciendas.
•All or most meals are included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. (B, L, D) Vegetarian meals will be provided upon request in advance.
•All sightseeing tours, including all Park entrance fees on the itinerary.
•Services of professional tour guides/trip leaders.
Items that are not included in our trips: International airfare, internal flights, airport departure taxes, travel insurance (highly recommended), excess baggage fees, passport fees, Chilean reciprocity tax, optional tips to trip leader, guides and local staff, additional hotel nights that may be needed to accommodate your airline schedule, items of personal nature such as: sleeping bag, personal gear, laundry, telephone calls, beverages, etc..
What kind of trips does Inca Land Adventures offer?
We are the pioneers in mountain Running Adventures in South America. We operate the finest organized Trekking Adventures and sightseeing Tours in Peru,
What is the difference between a tour and a trekking Adventure?
On our tours you fly, drive, take a train or sail. You stay at fine accommodations. The walking is limited and rated "easy to moderate". Some optional outdoor activities are offered. Tours are generally physically non-demanding.
On our trekking adventures, you will be staying at the same fine accommodations in the cities and on other days you will hike from camp to camp with a light daypack. You will be pleasantly surprised by the level of comfort that is provided in our camps! Porters and pack animals carry all the equipment and our staff takes care of everything while our cook prepares delicious meals. We provide spacious tents, dining tents, toilet tents, hot basin washing water and all camping equipment.
Your running adventures look challenging. How strong a runner do I need to be?
Runners from 18 to 78 have participated in our running adventures. Many have not run a marathon. Some have never run on a trail before, or spent the night in a tent. If you run regularly, can comfortably run 10-15 miles in rolling terrain, and are fit and healthy, you should find our running adventures to be an exhilarating and rewarding experience. Our running adventures are for runners of all abilities. Plenty of support is provided on the trail so you can enjoy it at your own pace. Have questions? Give us a call 01 51 84 275973
What is the maximum group size?
Our trekking and tour groups in all Peru Adventures, including Inca Trail are always small - 7 to 16 participants maximum.
Do you arrange Private trips?
Yes, we can arrange Private trips to Peru for individuals, families, clubs, institutions and corporations. Choose any date that fits your group's plans. If you are planning to hike the Inca Trail Trekking Adventure, permits have to be purchased at least 4 to 5 months in advance (depending on time of year) to guarantee the spaces. If you are planning to do the Wonders of Peru Tour without the hike, no permits are required; but if you want to hike to Machu Picchu instead of taking the train, the same advanced registration is required to obtain the permits. Please contact us for more information.
What are the accommodations like?
Our trips include accommodations in first class fine hotels. Many of our itineraries include links to the hotel web sites.
What if I'm traveling alone?
If you are traveling alone and prefer single accommodations you must pay the single supplement. If you are willing to share accommodations, we will try our best to find a roommate and if that is not possible you will pay only 75% of the single supplement cost.
What kind of arrangements will we have on the Inca Trail?
On the Inca Trail in Peru you can expect the most complete support. We provide first-class camping and trekking services by experienced Andean guides, camp and cook staff, assisted by red blue train porters. All meals: Wake up tea, breakfast, lunch, tea meal and dinner. All quality group camping equipment: excellent personal tents, thermarest pads, dining and kitchen tents, tables, camp stools, toilet tents.
What is the food like?
All or most meals are included on our trips. You will be treated to an extensive variety of fabulous Peruvian cuisine. We choose the finest restaurants in the cities to give you the opportunity to taste a great variety of local delicacies and flavors. In camps our cooks are experts in preparing nourishing wholesome and delicious meals. We will accommodate any special diet requests you may have including vegetarian, please request prior to the trip.
About our trip leaders/guides.
Our experienced local bilingual trip leaders/guides are the key to making each trip a unique adventure and we provide the very best. They have in-depth knowledge of the language, customs, culture and history. They take great pleasure in sharing their insights and expertise and will make your adventure an unforgettable experience. Leaders are detail oriented, making sure everything runs safely and smoothly.
Pre-trip planning.
As soon as you sign up, you will receive detailed pre-departure material, including information on the country, check list of items to bring, insurance application and other information to help you prepare for your trip. Airline tickets and final trip details will be send about a month before departure.
Does Inca Land Adventures offer any group discounts?
Yes, we offer discounts for a party of 16 participants reserving at the same time and traveling together. Consult with us on the specific trip that you are considering.
How do I sign up for an Andes Adventures trip?
Send us a completed application and a $400 deposit. A second payment of $600 is due 90 days prior to departure. Full payment must be received 60 days prior to departure.
We recommend you sign up as early as possible. Our group sizes are small and they fill up quickly. New regulations limit the number of people on the Inca Trail. Permits are available only on a first-come, first serve basis. To guarantee your spot on the Inca Trail we recommend that you reserve at least 6 months in advance!
Should I buy travel insurance?
We highly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, you will receive an application for travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance
Travel Insured offers several types of coverage. We strongly recommend one of the Comprehensive Plans because of the Trip Cancellation benefit. The policy we suggest is the "Worldwide Trip Protector". Plans include a provision to waive the exclusion for Pre-Existing Conditions if you purchase the coverage within 14 days of your initial trip deposit.
Will I need a visa?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to go to Peru . U.S. citizens need a visa to go to Bolivia. Other nationalities do not require a visa. Please consult with us!
What are the penalties for canceling my trip?
Cancellation fees are computed, as of the date we receive your written cancellation notice, as follows
Cancellation Fees For Perú,
•More than 90 days before departure - $200
•89 to 61 days before departure - $300
•60 to 31 days before departure - 50% of selling price
•30 days or less to departure 100% of selling price
Prices
INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU AND CIRCUIT AROUND MOUNT AUSANGATE 15d/14n 5 night camping
INCA TRAIL ,AUSANGATE RUNNING MARATHON
for more conta flavio@incalandadventures.com
* Prices For a Person in US Dollars
• http://www.incalandadventures.com/terms-conditions.html
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Running Marathon Adventure 10d/09N (1 night camping)
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Running Marathon Adventure 10d/09N (1 night camping)
ITINERARY
In 2010 Inca Trail permits sold out 5 months in advance. Reserve your 2011 entry today!
Peru Information
Don't miss the original classic pilgrimage trail to Machu Picchu. New regulations limit the number of people on the Inca Trail. Inca Trail permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and are non-transferable. To ensure your spot we recommend that you reserve at least 6 months in advance!
*Does not include single tent on the Inca Trail $555*
• All off-trail accommodations in Perú are in fine hotels. When camping, we use roomy, high quality tents. All accommodations are based on double occupancy.
• If you are traveling alone and prefer single accommodations you must pay the single supplement. If you are willing to share accommodations, we will try our best to find a roommate and if that is not possible you will pay only 75% of the single supplement cost.
• Inca Trail, Salkantay trail, Ausangate circuit : First-class camping and trekking services by experienced Andean guides, camp and cook staff, red and blue porters on the Inca Trail and Quechua arrieros with their pack animals in Salkantay, on the Ausangate circuit. Horses are available in Salcantay, on the Ausangate circuit. All group camping equipment: quality tents, thermarest pads, dining and kitchen tents, tables and camp stools, toilet tents, etc. All meals: Wake up tea, breakfast, lunch, tea meal and dinner. .
• The services of professional tour guides.
• Our local leaders and guides are knowledgeable about the language, customs, culture and history of their country. They are detail oriented and take great pleasure in sharing their insight and expertise. They help make sure everything runs as safely and smoothly as possible.
Note: All itineraries are subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control including, weather, road or trail conditions and flight schedules.
Plan your 2011 Travel Adventure today!
Note: To avoid participants having to pay a premium for an extra night at the hotel at the airport in Lima or hotel in Cusco, an additional night was added at Hotel Picoaga in Cusco. We are also making available low cost all-inclusive flights departing from LAX and from Miami connecting directly to Cusco.
Day 1: Departure to Lima.- free day lima
Day 2: Cusco.- Early morning arrival at the Lima airport, where you will be met by an Inca Land Adventures representative, who will assist you with connecting flights to Cusco. Depart on a one-hour flight to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and the continent's oldest continuously inhabited city. Upon arrival in Cusco, we transfer to the hotel where a traditional welcome cup of coca leaf tea is served to help with the acclimatization to the 11,150 feet altitude.
The rest of the day is on your own to rest, acclimatize and enjoy Cusco. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: L. Today's run: None scheduled.
Day 3: Cusco .- Acclimatization morning run followed by a guided sightseeing tour of the city, visiting the Cathedral, Qorikancha, the most important temple of the Inca Empire and the Santo Domingo Monastery. You will receive a tourist ticket valid for the length of the trip enabling you to visit the many archaeological sites, temples and other places of interest. After lunch enjoy shopping and sightseeing in beautiful Cusco. Welcome dinner and overnight in Cusco. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: B, L, D. Today's run: Optional acclimatization run.
Day 4: Cusco .- Morning visit to the archaeological sites surrounding Cusco, beginning with the fortress and temple of Sacsayhuaman, perched on a hillside overlooking Cusco at 12,136 feet. It is still a mystery how this fortress was constructed. Gigantic stones, some of them weighing 125 tons, were carved into huge trapezoidal blocks that fit together with extraordinary precision. The tour continues with visits to the semicircular shrine of Kenko, Puca Pucara and the Royal Baths of Tambomachay, a beautiful ceremonial bath, adorned with waterfalls, which continues to flow 500 years after being built.
Following the tour, we run downhill to Cusco, passing through the village of Yuncaypata, and the Temple of the Moon. We enter Cusco through San Blas and finish at the Plaza de Armas. After lunch, we will spend the afternoon relaxing, shopping and sightseeing in beautiful Cusco and its surroundings. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 4.5 miles.
Day 5 : Chinchero/Yucay .- Continuing to Urubamba, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, we travel across a high plain with splendid views of the Cordillera Urubamba to the ancient Inca town of Chinchero at 12,350 feet. There, we will visit a highland home and observe a demonstration of the traditional weaving process and shop for local handicrafts. Acclimatization run, starting on flat terrain, passing through the salt mines of Maras and finishing down a scenic trail leading to the Urubamba River. Overnight in the town of Yucay. Overnight: Sonesta Posada del Inca Hotel in Yucay. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 5 to 8 mile options.
Day 6: Ollantaytambo/Llactapata .- We visit the village of Ollanta and Ollantaytambo, the best surviving example of an Inca town. Most of its buildings sit upon Inca walls and the street plan is still the original laid out by its Inca builders. Its stonework, narrow cobbled streets, family courtyards and water system is exactly as it was built in Inca times. You will be able to appreciate the Inca agricultural terraces that create small tiers of fertile land on very steep slopes.
We have a light lunch in Ollantaytambo and continue on a short ride by bus to the trailhead at km 82 "Piscacucho," where we begin our run to km 88 "Qoriwayrachina." There we enter the Machu Picchu Sanctuary National Park. About a mile later we arrive at our camp in the archaeological site of Llactapata "Town on Hillside" at 8,400 feet. Upon arrival in camp we enjoy hot coca tea and a great view of the Urubamba mountain range. Overnight: Camp at Llactapata. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: About 6.5 miles along the Urubamba River with a shorter option available.
Note: The point of entrance to the Inca Trail is subject to change due to permit requirements.
Day 7: Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Marathon .- Early breakfast and start of the "Inca Trail Marathon." The trail continues along the Cusichaca River and follows it upstream on a gradual climb for about three miles leaving behind the Urubamba valley and a magnificent view of snow-capped Mount Veronica (18,865'), the highest peak in the Cordillera Urubamba. We reach the village of Wayllabamba at 9,100 feet, the last inhabited village on the Inca trail. Penetrating the spectacular Llulluchayoc gorge; the trail becomes steeper as we enter mossy woods and continue our uphill climb through a thick forest, before emerging into a large meadow "pampa" Llulluchapampa high above tree line at about 12,400 feet. We continue about a mile to Warmiwañusq'a pass "Pass of the Dead Woman" at 13,779 feet, the highest pass in the Inca Trail. A short rocky descent into the valley brings us to the Pacaymayo River. We will have an aid station here. Ascending steps, we begin the climb toward Runkurakay pass. On the way we encounter the Runkurakay watchtower ruins at 12,464 feet. We pass by a small lake before reaching the Runkurakay pass at 13,100 feet. From here, you will have excellent views of the glaciated peaks of the Cordillera Vilcabamba. Most of the climb is behind us; the trail descends rocky slopes and reaches the strategic fortress of Sayacmarca "Dominant Town" at 12,234 feet. Beyond Sayacmarca the trail enters dense groves and you will find impressive evidence of Inca road construction, with its six feet wide and carefully constructed stone-paved trails. An amazing engineering accomplishment!
We will negotiate a 20 meter Inca tunnel with carved steps and soon the trail becomes a magnificent stone staircase leading to Phuyupatamarca "Town in the Clouds" at 11,674 feet. We summit the third pass and have our first look into the deep gorge of the Urubamba River. Just below you find the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, we will have an aid station here. The trail follows down a series of hundreds of steps, passing by ceremonial Inca baths where mountain water still flows through carved stone channels. As we descend into the cloud forest, we will be surrounded by abundance of exotic varieties of plants, orchids and flowers until reaching the ruins of Wiñay Wayna "Forever Young." We run down a dirt trail for about three and a half miles to Intipunku "Gateway of the Sun" at 8,860 feet. Suddenly, the full grandeur of the world's greatest ruins are revealed - the domed peak of Huayna Picchu and the lost City of the Incas, MACHU PICCHU at 7,900 feet. Our evening includes Machu Picchu Pueblo (previously known as Aguas Calientes), where we will enjoy a celebration dinner. "Running the Inca trail in one day" is a significant accomplishment, as most hikers take an average of 3 days. Overnight: El Mapi Hotel Machu Picchu. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 27.5 miles
Day 8: Machu Picchu .- We spend the early part of the morning with our expert guide, for a tour of the mysterious city, its magnificent temples, terraced hillsides, archaeological curiosities, irrigation channels, fountains, elaborate stone work and chambers of unknown purpose. As we listen to the theories about the mysteries of Machu Picchu, we wonder how and why this city was built in such a remote place and what its purpose might have been. Fortunately this outstanding citadel was never discovered by the Spaniards and was spared from destruction.
After a great lunch at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, continue exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu, or relax in Aguas Calientes. You may also choose from several additional (unguided) activities such as a moderate hike or run to the Inca Bridge; a more strenuous hike to the 9,500 feet summit of Machu Picchu mountain; or a steep climb to the airy summit of Huayna Picchu at 9,000 feet. Overnight: El Mapi Hotel Machu Picchu. Meals: B, L.
Today's run: Optional distances.
Day 9: Pisac/Cusco .- This morning we board the train to Urubamba. We have lunch in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, we continue by bus to visit the Andean village of Pisac. Our guide takes us through the village to visit its colorful market where extensive selections of colorful weavings, ceramics, sweaters and other handicrafts are sold at bargain prices. The afternoon is free for shopping and enjoying Cusco. Dinner and overnight in Cusco. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: Optional distances.
Day 10: Cusco/Lima .- After an early breakfast, transfer to the Cusco airport for the flight to Lima. We will be met at the airport and transferred to a hotel in the residential district of Miraflores, where a day use room is available. After lunch, we are picked up at the hotel and taken on a sightseeing guided city tour of colonial and modern Lima. Highlights include Lima’s Cathedral, government palace in Plaza Mayor, San Francisco monastery, San Isidro, Miraflores and a scenic view of the coastline. Those departing tonight transfer to the airport and depart on homeward-bound flights.
Don't miss the original classic pilgrimage trail to Machu Picchu. New regulations limit the number of people on the Inca Trail. Inca Trail permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and are non-transferable. To ensure your spot we recommend that you reserve at least 6 months in advance!
Why are Inca Land Adventures trips are a lot less expensive than other companies?
Compare us with other companies offering adventure travel, you will find that we charge a lot less for similar programs. We are able to provide these low prices and keep costs down because we plan, organize and operate all our trips directly. We do not use an operator in any of our destinations; that alone saves you at least 30% to 40% of the cost. For the same reason we can also guarantee the quality of our adventures. We do not work with travel agents; therefore no additional cost for commission is added to our prices saving you an additional 15% to 20%. We keep our overhead low, and we carefully control our office and printing expenses. Nevertheless, Inca Land Adventures never compromises the quality of the trips in any way. We include excellent accommodations, all or most meals, tours & many other extras. Compare our adventures and prices with other well known companies and you will find that our itineraries include much more than comparable trips.
What's included in all Andes Adventures trips?
Our packages are all-inclusive and save you in every category. See details below and compare to any other company.
•All airport transfers and ground transportation as scheduled on itinerary.
•All accommodations are based on double occupancy.
•All off-trail accommodations in Perú are in fine hotels. When camping, we use roomy, high quality tents.
•Accommodations in Peru are in fine hotels. Based on double occupancy, rooms are shared by two people. 2 nights are in rustic accommodations that we reserve entirely for us. We may share more than 2 per room among the group.
•All or most meals are included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. (B, L, D) Vegetarian meals will be provided upon request in advance.
•All sightseeing tours, including all Park entrance fees on the itinerary.
•Services of professional tour guides/
Items that are not included in our trips: International airfare, internal flights, airport departure taxes, travel insurance (highly recommended), excess baggage fees, passport fees, optional tips to trip leader, guides and local staff, additional hotel nights that may be needed to accommodate your airline schedule, items of personal nature such as: sleeping bag, personal gear, laundry, telephone calls, beverages, etc..
What kind of trips does Inca Land Adventures offer?
We are the pioneers in mountain Running Adventures in South America. We operate the finest organized Trekking Adventures and sightseeing Tours in Peru,
What is the difference between a tour and a trekking Adventure?
On our tours you fly, drive, take a train or sail. You stay at fine accommodations. The walking is limited and rated "easy to moderate". Some optional outdoor activities are offered. Tours are generally physically non-demanding.
On our trekking adventures, you will be staying at the same fine accommodations in the cities and on other days you will hike from camp to camp with a light daypack. You will be pleasantly surprised by the level of comfort that is provided in our camps! Porters and pack animals carry all the equipment and our staff takes care of everything while our cook prepares delicious meals. We provide spacious tents, dining tents, toilet tents, hot basin washing water and all camping equipment.
Your running adventures look challenging. How strong a runner do I need to be?
Runners from 18 to 78 have participated in our running adventures. Many have not run a marathon. Some have never run on a trail before, or spent the night in a tent. If you run regularly, can comfortably run 10-15 miles in rolling terrain, and are fit and healthy, you should find our running adventures to be an exhilarating and rewarding experience. Our running adventures are for runners of all abilities. Plenty of support is provided on the trail so you can enjoy it at your own pace. Have questions? Give us a call at (051 84 275 973
What is the maximum group size?
Our trekking and tour groups in all peru adventures , including Inca Trail are always small - 2 to 16 participants maximum.
Do you arrange Private trips?
Yes, we can arrange Private trips to Peru for individuals, families, clubs, institutions and corporations. Choose any date that fits your group's plans. If you are planning to hike the Inca Trail Trekking Adventure, permits have to be purchased at least 4 to 5 months in advance (depending on time of year) to guarantee the spaces. If you are planning to do the Wonders of Peru Tour without the hike, no permits are required; but if you want to hike to Machu Picchu instead of taking the train, the same advanced registration is required to obtain the permits. Please contact us for more information.
What are the accommodations like?
Our trips include accommodations in first class fine hotels. Many of our itineraries include links to the hotel web sites.
What if I'm traveling alone?
If you are traveling alone and prefer single accommodations you must pay the single supplement. If you are willing to share accommodations, we will try our best to find a roommate and if that is not possible you will pay only 75% of the single supplement cost.
What kind of arrangements will we have on the Inca Trail?
On the Inca Trail in Peru you can expect the most complete support. We provide first-class camping and trekking services by experienced Andean guides, camp and cook staff, assisted by red and blue porters. All meals: Wake up tea, breakfast, lunch, tea meal and dinner. All quality group camping equipment: excellent personal tents, thermarest pads, dining and kitchen tents, tables, camp stools, toilet tents.
What is the food like?
All or most meals are included on our trips. You will be treated to an extensive variety of fabulous Peruvian cuisine. We choose the finest restaurants in the cities to give you the opportunity to taste a great variety of local delicacies and flavors. In camps our cooks are experts in preparing nourishing wholesome and delicious meals. We will accommodate any special diet requests you may have including vegetarian, please request prior to the trip
About our trip leaders/guides.
Our experienced local bilingual trip leaders/guides are the key to making each trip a unique adventure and we provide the very best. They have in-depth knowledge of the language, customs, culture and history. They take great pleasure in sharing their insights and expertise and will make your adventure an unforgettable experience. Leaders are detail oriented, making sure everything runs safely and smoothly.
Pre-trip planning.
As soon as you sign up, you will receive detailed pre-departure material, including information on the country, check list of items to bring, insurance application and other information to help you prepare for your trip. Airline tickets and final trip details will be send about a month before departure.
Does Inca Land Adventures offer any group discounts?
Yes, we offer discounts for a party of 16 participants reserving at the same time and traveling together. Consult with us on the specific trip that you are considering.
How do I sign up for an Inca Land Adventures trip?
Send us a completed application and a $400 deposit. A second payment of $600 is due 90 days prior to departure. Full payment must be paid 30 days prior your trip:
We recommend you sign up as early as possible. Our group sizes are small and they fill up quickly.
New regulations limit the number of people on the Inca Trail. Permits are available only on a first-come, first serve basis. To guarantee your spot on the Inca Trail we recommend that you reserve at least 6 months in advance!
Should I buy travel insurance?
We highly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, you will receive an application for travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance
Will I need a visa?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to go to Peru, Ecuador, Chile or Argentina. U.S. citizens need a visa to go to Bolivia. Other nationalities do not require a visa. Please consult with us!
What are the penalties for canceling my trip?
Cancellation fees are computed, as of the date we receive your written cancellation notice, as follows
Cancellation Fees Forfor this tours in Perú:
•More than 120 days before departure - $400
•89 to 61 days before departure - $300
•60 to 31 days before departure - 50% of selling price
•30 days or less to departure 100% of selling price
Prices
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Running Marathon Adventure 11d/10N
INCA TRAIL RUNNING MARATHON SERVICE CONTAC US FOR MORE INFO flavio@incalandadventures.com
* Prices For a Person in US Dollars
• http://www.incalandadventures.com/terms-conditions.html
ITINERARY
In 2010 Inca Trail permits sold out 5 months in advance. Reserve your 2011 entry today!
Peru Information
Don't miss the original classic pilgrimage trail to Machu Picchu. New regulations limit the number of people on the Inca Trail. Inca Trail permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and are non-transferable. To ensure your spot we recommend that you reserve at least 6 months in advance!
*Does not include single tent on the Inca Trail $555*
• All off-trail accommodations in Perú are in fine hotels. When camping, we use roomy, high quality tents. All accommodations are based on double occupancy.
• If you are traveling alone and prefer single accommodations you must pay the single supplement. If you are willing to share accommodations, we will try our best to find a roommate and if that is not possible you will pay only 75% of the single supplement cost.
• Inca Trail, Salkantay trail, Ausangate circuit : First-class camping and trekking services by experienced Andean guides, camp and cook staff, red and blue porters on the Inca Trail and Quechua arrieros with their pack animals in Salkantay, on the Ausangate circuit. Horses are available in Salcantay, on the Ausangate circuit. All group camping equipment: quality tents, thermarest pads, dining and kitchen tents, tables and camp stools, toilet tents, etc. All meals: Wake up tea, breakfast, lunch, tea meal and dinner. .
• The services of professional tour guides.
• Our local leaders and guides are knowledgeable about the language, customs, culture and history of their country. They are detail oriented and take great pleasure in sharing their insight and expertise. They help make sure everything runs as safely and smoothly as possible.
Note: All itineraries are subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control including, weather, road or trail conditions and flight schedules.
Plan your 2011 Travel Adventure today!
Note: To avoid participants having to pay a premium for an extra night at the hotel at the airport in Lima or hotel in Cusco, an additional night was added at Hotel Picoaga in Cusco. We are also making available low cost all-inclusive flights departing from LAX and from Miami connecting directly to Cusco.
Day 1: Departure to Lima.- free day lima
Day 2: Cusco.- Early morning arrival at the Lima airport, where you will be met by an Inca Land Adventures representative, who will assist you with connecting flights to Cusco. Depart on a one-hour flight to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and the continent's oldest continuously inhabited city. Upon arrival in Cusco, we transfer to the hotel where a traditional welcome cup of coca leaf tea is served to help with the acclimatization to the 11,150 feet altitude.
The rest of the day is on your own to rest, acclimatize and enjoy Cusco. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: L. Today's run: None scheduled.
Day 3: Cusco .- Acclimatization morning run followed by a guided sightseeing tour of the city, visiting the Cathedral, Qorikancha, the most important temple of the Inca Empire and the Santo Domingo Monastery. You will receive a tourist ticket valid for the length of the trip enabling you to visit the many archaeological sites, temples and other places of interest. After lunch enjoy shopping and sightseeing in beautiful Cusco. Welcome dinner and overnight in Cusco. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: B, L, D. Today's run: Optional acclimatization run.
Day 4: Cusco .- Morning visit to the archaeological sites surrounding Cusco, beginning with the fortress and temple of Sacsayhuaman, perched on a hillside overlooking Cusco at 12,136 feet. It is still a mystery how this fortress was constructed. Gigantic stones, some of them weighing 125 tons, were carved into huge trapezoidal blocks that fit together with extraordinary precision. The tour continues with visits to the semicircular shrine of Kenko, Puca Pucara and the Royal Baths of Tambomachay, a beautiful ceremonial bath, adorned with waterfalls, which continues to flow 500 years after being built.
Following the tour, we run downhill to Cusco, passing through the village of Yuncaypata, and the Temple of the Moon. We enter Cusco through San Blas and finish at the Plaza de Armas. After lunch, we will spend the afternoon relaxing, shopping and sightseeing in beautiful Cusco and its surroundings. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 4.5 miles.
Day 5 : Chinchero/Yucay .- Continuing to Urubamba, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, we travel across a high plain with splendid views of the Cordillera Urubamba to the ancient Inca town of Chinchero at 12,350 feet. There, we will visit a highland home and observe a demonstration of the traditional weaving process and shop for local handicrafts. Acclimatization run, starting on flat terrain, passing through the salt mines of Maras and finishing down a scenic trail leading to the Urubamba River. Overnight in the town of Yucay. Overnight: Sonesta Posada del Inca Hotel in Yucay. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 5 to 8 mile options.
Day 6: Ollantaytambo/Llactapata .- We visit the village of Ollanta and Ollantaytambo, the best surviving example of an Inca town. Most of its buildings sit upon Inca walls and the street plan is still the original laid out by its Inca builders. Its stonework, narrow cobbled streets, family courtyards and water system is exactly as it was built in Inca times. You will be able to appreciate the Inca agricultural terraces that create small tiers of fertile land on very steep slopes.
We have a light lunch in Ollantaytambo and continue on a short ride by bus to the trailhead at km 82 "Piscacucho," where we begin our run to km 88 "Qoriwayrachina." There we enter the Machu Picchu Sanctuary National Park. About a mile later we arrive at our camp in the archaeological site of Llactapata "Town on Hillside" at 8,400 feet. Upon arrival in camp we enjoy hot coca tea and a great view of the Urubamba mountain range. Overnight: Camp at Llactapata. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: About 6.5 miles along the Urubamba River with a shorter option available.
Note: The point of entrance to the Inca Trail is subject to change due to permit requirements.
Day 7: Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Marathon .- Early breakfast and start of the "Inca Trail Marathon." The trail continues along the Cusichaca River and follows it upstream on a gradual climb for about three miles leaving behind the Urubamba valley and a magnificent view of snow-capped Mount Veronica (18,865'), the highest peak in the Cordillera Urubamba. We reach the village of Wayllabamba at 9,100 feet, the last inhabited village on the Inca trail. Penetrating the spectacular Llulluchayoc gorge; the trail becomes steeper as we enter mossy woods and continue our uphill climb through a thick forest, before emerging into a large meadow "pampa" Llulluchapampa high above tree line at about 12,400 feet. We continue about a mile to Warmiwañusq'a pass "Pass of the Dead Woman" at 13,779 feet, the highest pass in the Inca Trail. A short rocky descent into the valley brings us to the Pacaymayo River. We will have an aid station here. Ascending steps, we begin the climb toward Runkurakay pass. On the way we encounter the Runkurakay watchtower ruins at 12,464 feet. We pass by a small lake before reaching the Runkurakay pass at 13,100 feet. From here, you will have excellent views of the glaciated peaks of the Cordillera Vilcabamba. Most of the climb is behind us; the trail descends rocky slopes and reaches the strategic fortress of Sayacmarca "Dominant Town" at 12,234 feet. Beyond Sayacmarca the trail enters dense groves and you will find impressive evidence of Inca road construction, with its six feet wide and carefully constructed stone-paved trails. An amazing engineering accomplishment!
We will negotiate a 20 meter Inca tunnel with carved steps and soon the trail becomes a magnificent stone staircase leading to Phuyupatamarca "Town in the Clouds" at 11,674 feet. We summit the third pass and have our first look into the deep gorge of the Urubamba River. Just below you find the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, we will have an aid station here. The trail follows down a series of hundreds of steps, passing by ceremonial Inca baths where mountain water still flows through carved stone channels. As we descend into the cloud forest, we will be surrounded by abundance of exotic varieties of plants, orchids and flowers until reaching the ruins of Wiñay Wayna "Forever Young." We run down a dirt trail for about three and a half miles to Intipunku "Gateway of the Sun" at 8,860 feet. Suddenly, the full grandeur of the world's greatest ruins are revealed - the domed peak of Huayna Picchu and the lost City of the Incas, MACHU PICCHU at 7,900 feet. Our evening includes Machu Picchu Pueblo (previously known as Aguas Calientes), where we will enjoy a celebration dinner. "Running the Inca trail in one day" is a significant accomplishment, as most hikers take an average of 3 days. Overnight: El Mapi Hotel Machu Picchu. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: 27.5 miles
Day 8: Machu Picchu .- We spend the early part of the morning with our expert guide, for a tour of the mysterious city, its magnificent temples, terraced hillsides, archaeological curiosities, irrigation channels, fountains, elaborate stone work and chambers of unknown purpose. As we listen to the theories about the mysteries of Machu Picchu, we wonder how and why this city was built in such a remote place and what its purpose might have been. Fortunately this outstanding citadel was never discovered by the Spaniards and was spared from destruction.
After a great lunch at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, continue exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu, or relax in Aguas Calientes. You may also choose from several additional (unguided) activities such as a moderate hike or run to the Inca Bridge; a more strenuous hike to the 9,500 feet summit of Machu Picchu mountain; or a steep climb to the airy summit of Huayna Picchu at 9,000 feet. Overnight: El Mapi Hotel Machu Picchu. Meals: B, L.
Today's run: Optional distances.
Day 9: Pisac/Cusco .- This morning we board the train to Urubamba. We have lunch in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, we continue by bus to visit the Andean village of Pisac. Our guide takes us through the village to visit its colorful market where extensive selections of colorful weavings, ceramics, sweaters and other handicrafts are sold at bargain prices. The afternoon is free for shopping and enjoying Cusco. Dinner and overnight in Cusco. Overnight: Picoaga Hotel in Cusco. Meals: B, L, D.
Today's run: Optional distances.
Day 10: Cusco/Lima .- After an early breakfast, transfer to the Cusco airport for the flight to Lima. We will be met at the airport and transferred to a hotel in the residential district of Miraflores, where a day use room is available. After lunch, we are picked up at the hotel and taken on a sightseeing guided city tour of colonial and modern Lima. Highlights include Lima’s Cathedral, government palace in Plaza Mayor, San Francisco monastery, San Isidro, Miraflores and a scenic view of the coastline. Those departing tonight transfer to the airport and depart on homeward-bound flights.
Don't miss the original classic pilgrimage trail to Machu Picchu. New regulations limit the number of people on the Inca Trail. Inca Trail permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and are non-transferable. To ensure your spot we recommend that you reserve at least 6 months in advance!
Why are Inca Land Adventures trips are a lot less expensive than other companies?
Compare us with other companies offering adventure travel, you will find that we charge a lot less for similar programs. We are able to provide these low prices and keep costs down because we plan, organize and operate all our trips directly. We do not use an operator in any of our destinations; that alone saves you at least 30% to 40% of the cost. For the same reason we can also guarantee the quality of our adventures. We do not work with travel agents; therefore no additional cost for commission is added to our prices saving you an additional 15% to 20%. We keep our overhead low, and we carefully control our office and printing expenses. Nevertheless, Inca Land Adventures never compromises the quality of the trips in any way. We include excellent accommodations, all or most meals, tours & many other extras. Compare our adventures and prices with other well known companies and you will find that our itineraries include much more than comparable trips.
What's included in all Andes Adventures trips?
Our packages are all-inclusive and save you in every category. See details below and compare to any other company.
•All airport transfers and ground transportation as scheduled on itinerary.
•All accommodations are based on double occupancy.
•All off-trail accommodations in Perú are in fine hotels. When camping, we use roomy, high quality tents.
•Accommodations in Peru are in fine hotels. Based on double occupancy, rooms are shared by two people. 2 nights are in rustic accommodations that we reserve entirely for us. We may share more than 2 per room among the group.
•All or most meals are included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. (B, L, D) Vegetarian meals will be provided upon request in advance.
•All sightseeing tours, including all Park entrance fees on the itinerary.
•Services of professional tour guides/
Items that are not included in our trips: International airfare, internal flights, airport departure taxes, travel insurance (highly recommended), excess baggage fees, passport fees, optional tips to trip leader, guides and local staff, additional hotel nights that may be needed to accommodate your airline schedule, items of personal nature such as: sleeping bag, personal gear, laundry, telephone calls, beverages, etc..
What kind of trips does Inca Land Adventures offer?
We are the pioneers in mountain Running Adventures in South America. We operate the finest organized Trekking Adventures and sightseeing Tours in Peru,
What is the difference between a tour and a trekking Adventure?
On our tours you fly, drive, take a train or sail. You stay at fine accommodations. The walking is limited and rated "easy to moderate". Some optional outdoor activities are offered. Tours are generally physically non-demanding.
On our trekking adventures, you will be staying at the same fine accommodations in the cities and on other days you will hike from camp to camp with a light daypack. You will be pleasantly surprised by the level of comfort that is provided in our camps! Porters and pack animals carry all the equipment and our staff takes care of everything while our cook prepares delicious meals. We provide spacious tents, dining tents, toilet tents, hot basin washing water and all camping equipment.
Your running adventures look challenging. How strong a runner do I need to be?
Runners from 18 to 78 have participated in our running adventures. Many have not run a marathon. Some have never run on a trail before, or spent the night in a tent. If you run regularly, can comfortably run 10-15 miles in rolling terrain, and are fit and healthy, you should find our running adventures to be an exhilarating and rewarding experience. Our running adventures are for runners of all abilities. Plenty of support is provided on the trail so you can enjoy it at your own pace. Have questions? Give us a call at (051 84 275 973
What is the maximum group size?
Our trekking and tour groups in all peru adventures , including Inca Trail are always small - 2 to 16 participants maximum.
Do you arrange Private trips?
Yes, we can arrange Private trips to Peru for individuals, families, clubs, institutions and corporations. Choose any date that fits your group's plans. If you are planning to hike the Inca Trail Trekking Adventure, permits have to be purchased at least 4 to 5 months in advance (depending on time of year) to guarantee the spaces. If you are planning to do the Wonders of Peru Tour without the hike, no permits are required; but if you want to hike to Machu Picchu instead of taking the train, the same advanced registration is required to obtain the permits. Please contact us for more information.
What are the accommodations like?
Our trips include accommodations in first class fine hotels. Many of our itineraries include links to the hotel web sites.
What if I'm traveling alone?
If you are traveling alone and prefer single accommodations you must pay the single supplement. If you are willing to share accommodations, we will try our best to find a roommate and if that is not possible you will pay only 75% of the single supplement cost.
What kind of arrangements will we have on the Inca Trail?
On the Inca Trail in Peru you can expect the most complete support. We provide first-class camping and trekking services by experienced Andean guides, camp and cook staff, assisted by red and blue porters. All meals: Wake up tea, breakfast, lunch, tea meal and dinner. All quality group camping equipment: excellent personal tents, thermarest pads, dining and kitchen tents, tables, camp stools, toilet tents.
What is the food like?
All or most meals are included on our trips. You will be treated to an extensive variety of fabulous Peruvian cuisine. We choose the finest restaurants in the cities to give you the opportunity to taste a great variety of local delicacies and flavors. In camps our cooks are experts in preparing nourishing wholesome and delicious meals. We will accommodate any special diet requests you may have including vegetarian, please request prior to the trip
About our trip leaders/guides.
Our experienced local bilingual trip leaders/guides are the key to making each trip a unique adventure and we provide the very best. They have in-depth knowledge of the language, customs, culture and history. They take great pleasure in sharing their insights and expertise and will make your adventure an unforgettable experience. Leaders are detail oriented, making sure everything runs safely and smoothly.
Pre-trip planning.
As soon as you sign up, you will receive detailed pre-departure material, including information on the country, check list of items to bring, insurance application and other information to help you prepare for your trip. Airline tickets and final trip details will be send about a month before departure.
Does Inca Land Adventures offer any group discounts?
Yes, we offer discounts for a party of 16 participants reserving at the same time and traveling together. Consult with us on the specific trip that you are considering.
How do I sign up for an Inca Land Adventures trip?
Send us a completed application and a $400 deposit. A second payment of $600 is due 90 days prior to departure. Full payment must be paid 30 days prior your trip:
We recommend you sign up as early as possible. Our group sizes are small and they fill up quickly.
New regulations limit the number of people on the Inca Trail. Permits are available only on a first-come, first serve basis. To guarantee your spot on the Inca Trail we recommend that you reserve at least 6 months in advance!
Should I buy travel insurance?
We highly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, you will receive an application for travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance
Will I need a visa?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to go to Peru, Ecuador, Chile or Argentina. U.S. citizens need a visa to go to Bolivia. Other nationalities do not require a visa. Please consult with us!
What are the penalties for canceling my trip?
Cancellation fees are computed, as of the date we receive your written cancellation notice, as follows
Cancellation Fees Forfor this tours in Perú:
•More than 120 days before departure - $400
•89 to 61 days before departure - $300
•60 to 31 days before departure - 50% of selling price
•30 days or less to departure 100% of selling price
Prices
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Running Marathon Adventure 11d/10N
INCA TRAIL RUNNING MARATHON SERVICE CONTAC US FOR MORE INFO flavio@incalandadventures.com
* Prices For a Person in US Dollars
• http://www.incalandadventures.com/terms-conditions.html
viernes, 28 de mayo de 2010
Earth on the Brink of an Ice Age
Earth on the Brink of an Ice Age
The earth is now on the brink of entering another Ice Age, according to a large and compelling body
of evidence from within the field of climate science. Many sources of data which provide our
knowledge base of long-term climate change indicate that the warm, twelve thousand year-long
Holocene period will rather soon be coming to an end, and then the earth will return to Ice Age
conditions for the next 100,000 years.
Ice cores, ocean sediment cores, the geologic record, and studies of ancient plant and animal
populations all demonstrate a regular cyclic pattern of Ice Age glacial maximums which each last
about 100,000 years, separated by intervening warm interglacials, each lasting about 12,000 years.
Most of the long-term climate data collected from various sources also shows a strong correlation
with the three astronomical cycles which are together known as the Milankovich cycles. The three
Milankovich cycles include the tilt of the earth, which varies over a 41,000 year period; the shape of
the earth’s orbit, which changes over a period of 100,000 years; and the Precession of the
Equinoxes, also known as the earth’s ‘wobble’, which gradually rotates the direction of the earth’s
axis over a period of 26,000 years. According to the Milankovich theory of Ice Age causation, these
three astronomical cycles, each of which effects the amount of solar radiation which reaches the
earth, act together to produce the cycle of cold Ice Age maximums and warm interglacials.
Elements of the astronomical theory of Ice Age causation were first presented by the French
mathematician Joseph Adhemar in 1842, it was developed further by the English prodigy Joseph
Croll in 1875, and the theory was established in its present form by the Serbian mathematician
Milutin Milankovich in the 1920s and 30s. In 1976 the prestigious journal “Science” published a
landmark paper by John Imbrie, James Hays, and Nicholas Shackleton entitled “Variations in the
Earth's orbit: Pacemaker of the Ice Ages,” which described the correlation which the trio of
scientist/authors had found between the climate data obtained from ocean sediment cores and the
patterns of the astronomical Milankovich cycles. Since the late 1970s, the Milankovich theory has
remained the predominant theory to account for Ice Age causation among climate scientists, and
hence the Milankovich theory is always described in textbooks of climatology and in encyclopaedia
articles about the Ice Ages.
In their 1976 paper Imbrie, Hays, and Shackleton wrote that their own climate forecasts, which were
based on sea-sediment cores and the Milankovich cycles, "… must be qualified in two ways. First,
they apply only to the natural component of future climatic trends - and not to anthropogenic effects
such as those due to the burning of fossil fuels. Second, they describe only the long-term trends,
because they are linked to orbital variations with periods of 20,000 years and longer. Climatic
oscillations at higher frequencies are not predicted... the results indicate that the long-term trend
over the next 20,000 years is towards extensive Northern Hemisphere glaciation and cooler
climate."
During the 1970s the famous American astronomer Carl Sagan and other scientists began
promoting the theory that ‘greenhouse gasses’ such as carbon dioxide, or CO2, produced by human
industries could lead to catastrophic global warming. Since the 1970s the theory of ‘anthropogenic
global warming’ (AGW) has gradually become accepted as fact by most of the academic
establishment, and their acceptance of AGW has inspired a global movement to encourage
governments to make pivotal changes to prevent the worsening of AGW.
The central piece of evidence that is cited in support of the AGW theory is the famous ‘hockey stick’
graph which was presented by Al Gore in his 2006 film “An Inconvenient Truth.” The ‘hockey stick’
graph shows an acute upward spike in global temperatures which began during the 1970s and
continued through the winter of 2006/07. However, this warming trend was interrupted when the
winter of 2007/8 delivered the deepest snow cover to the Northern Hemisphere since 1966 and the
coldest temperatures since 2001. It now appears that the current Northern Hemisphere winter of
2008/09 will probably equal or surpass the winter of 2007/08 for both snow depth and cold
temperatures.
The main flaw in the AGW theory is that its proponents focus on evidence from only the past one
thousand years at most, while ignoring the evidence from the past million years -- evidence which is
essential for a true understanding of climatology. The data from paleoclimatology provides us with
an alternative and more credible explanation for the recent global temperature spike, based on the
natural cycle of Ice Age maximums and interglacials.
In 1999 the British journal “Nature” published the results of data derived from glacial ice cores
collected at the Russia ’s Vostok station in Antarctica during the 1990s. The Vostok ice core data
includes a record of global atmospheric temperatures, atmospheric CO2 and other greenhouse
gases, and airborne particulates starting from 420,000 years ago and continuing through history up
to our present time.
The graph of the Vostok ice core data shows that the Ice Age maximums and the warm interglacials
occur within a regular cyclic pattern, the graph-line of which is similar to the rhythm of a
heartbeat on an electrocardiogram tracing. The Vostok data graph also shows that changes in
global CO2 levels lag behind global temperature changes by about eight hundred years. What that
indicates is that global temperatures precede or cause global CO2 changes, and not the reverse. In
other words, increasing atmospheric CO2 is not causing global temperature to rise; instead the
natural cyclic increase in global temperature is causing global CO2 to rise.
The reason that global CO2 levels rise and fall in response to the global temperature is because
cold water is capable of retaining more CO2 than warm water. That is why carbonated beverages
loose their carbonation, or CO2, when stored in a warm environment. We store our carbonated soft
drinks, wine, and beer in a cool place to prevent them from loosing their ‘fizz’, which is a feature of
their carbonation, or CO2 content. The earth is currently warming as a result of the natural Ice Age
cycle, and as the oceans get warmer, they release increasing amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere.
Because the release of CO2 by the warming oceans lags behind the changes in the earth’s
temperature, we should expect to see global CO2 levels continue to rise for another eight hundred
years after the end of the earth’s current Interglacial warm period. We should already be eight
hundred years into the coming Ice Age before global CO2 levels begin to drop in response to the
increased chilling of the world’s oceans.
The Vostok ice core data graph reveals that global CO2 levels regularly rose and fell in a direct
response to the natural cycle of Ice Age minimums and maximums during the past four hundred and
twenty thousand years. Within that natural cycle, about every 110,000 years global temperatures,
followed by global CO2 levels, have peaked at approximately the same levels which they are at
today.
About 325,000 years ago, at the peak of a warm interglacial, global temperature and CO2 levels
were higher than they are today. Today we are again at the peak, and near to the end, of a warm
interglacial, and the earth is now due to enter the next Ice Age. If we are lucky, we may have a few
years to prepare for it. The Ice Age will return, as it always has, in its regular and natural cycle, with
or without any influence from the effects of AGW.
The AGW theory is based on data that is drawn from a ridiculously narrow span of time and it
demonstrates a wanton disregard for the ‘big picture’ of long-term climate change. The data from
paleoclimatology, including ice cores, sea sediments, geology, paleobotany and zoology, indicate
that we are on the verge of entering another Ice Age, and the data also shows that severe and
lasting climate change can occur within only a few years. While concern over the dubious threat of
Anthropogenic Global Warming continues to distract the attention of people throughout the world,
the very real threat of the approaching and inevitable Ice Age, which will render large parts of the
Northern Hemisphere uninhabitable, is being foolishly ignored.
The earth is now on the brink of entering another Ice Age, according to a large and compelling body
of evidence from within the field of climate science. Many sources of data which provide our
knowledge base of long-term climate change indicate that the warm, twelve thousand year-long
Holocene period will rather soon be coming to an end, and then the earth will return to Ice Age
conditions for the next 100,000 years.
Ice cores, ocean sediment cores, the geologic record, and studies of ancient plant and animal
populations all demonstrate a regular cyclic pattern of Ice Age glacial maximums which each last
about 100,000 years, separated by intervening warm interglacials, each lasting about 12,000 years.
Most of the long-term climate data collected from various sources also shows a strong correlation
with the three astronomical cycles which are together known as the Milankovich cycles. The three
Milankovich cycles include the tilt of the earth, which varies over a 41,000 year period; the shape of
the earth’s orbit, which changes over a period of 100,000 years; and the Precession of the
Equinoxes, also known as the earth’s ‘wobble’, which gradually rotates the direction of the earth’s
axis over a period of 26,000 years. According to the Milankovich theory of Ice Age causation, these
three astronomical cycles, each of which effects the amount of solar radiation which reaches the
earth, act together to produce the cycle of cold Ice Age maximums and warm interglacials.
Elements of the astronomical theory of Ice Age causation were first presented by the French
mathematician Joseph Adhemar in 1842, it was developed further by the English prodigy Joseph
Croll in 1875, and the theory was established in its present form by the Serbian mathematician
Milutin Milankovich in the 1920s and 30s. In 1976 the prestigious journal “Science” published a
landmark paper by John Imbrie, James Hays, and Nicholas Shackleton entitled “Variations in the
Earth's orbit: Pacemaker of the Ice Ages,” which described the correlation which the trio of
scientist/authors had found between the climate data obtained from ocean sediment cores and the
patterns of the astronomical Milankovich cycles. Since the late 1970s, the Milankovich theory has
remained the predominant theory to account for Ice Age causation among climate scientists, and
hence the Milankovich theory is always described in textbooks of climatology and in encyclopaedia
articles about the Ice Ages.
In their 1976 paper Imbrie, Hays, and Shackleton wrote that their own climate forecasts, which were
based on sea-sediment cores and the Milankovich cycles, "… must be qualified in two ways. First,
they apply only to the natural component of future climatic trends - and not to anthropogenic effects
such as those due to the burning of fossil fuels. Second, they describe only the long-term trends,
because they are linked to orbital variations with periods of 20,000 years and longer. Climatic
oscillations at higher frequencies are not predicted... the results indicate that the long-term trend
over the next 20,000 years is towards extensive Northern Hemisphere glaciation and cooler
climate."
During the 1970s the famous American astronomer Carl Sagan and other scientists began
promoting the theory that ‘greenhouse gasses’ such as carbon dioxide, or CO2, produced by human
industries could lead to catastrophic global warming. Since the 1970s the theory of ‘anthropogenic
global warming’ (AGW) has gradually become accepted as fact by most of the academic
establishment, and their acceptance of AGW has inspired a global movement to encourage
governments to make pivotal changes to prevent the worsening of AGW.
The central piece of evidence that is cited in support of the AGW theory is the famous ‘hockey stick’
graph which was presented by Al Gore in his 2006 film “An Inconvenient Truth.” The ‘hockey stick’
graph shows an acute upward spike in global temperatures which began during the 1970s and
continued through the winter of 2006/07. However, this warming trend was interrupted when the
winter of 2007/8 delivered the deepest snow cover to the Northern Hemisphere since 1966 and the
coldest temperatures since 2001. It now appears that the current Northern Hemisphere winter of
2008/09 will probably equal or surpass the winter of 2007/08 for both snow depth and cold
temperatures.
The main flaw in the AGW theory is that its proponents focus on evidence from only the past one
thousand years at most, while ignoring the evidence from the past million years -- evidence which is
essential for a true understanding of climatology. The data from paleoclimatology provides us with
an alternative and more credible explanation for the recent global temperature spike, based on the
natural cycle of Ice Age maximums and interglacials.
In 1999 the British journal “Nature” published the results of data derived from glacial ice cores
collected at the Russia ’s Vostok station in Antarctica during the 1990s. The Vostok ice core data
includes a record of global atmospheric temperatures, atmospheric CO2 and other greenhouse
gases, and airborne particulates starting from 420,000 years ago and continuing through history up
to our present time.
The graph of the Vostok ice core data shows that the Ice Age maximums and the warm interglacials
occur within a regular cyclic pattern, the graph-line of which is similar to the rhythm of a
heartbeat on an electrocardiogram tracing. The Vostok data graph also shows that changes in
global CO2 levels lag behind global temperature changes by about eight hundred years. What that
indicates is that global temperatures precede or cause global CO2 changes, and not the reverse. In
other words, increasing atmospheric CO2 is not causing global temperature to rise; instead the
natural cyclic increase in global temperature is causing global CO2 to rise.
The reason that global CO2 levels rise and fall in response to the global temperature is because
cold water is capable of retaining more CO2 than warm water. That is why carbonated beverages
loose their carbonation, or CO2, when stored in a warm environment. We store our carbonated soft
drinks, wine, and beer in a cool place to prevent them from loosing their ‘fizz’, which is a feature of
their carbonation, or CO2 content. The earth is currently warming as a result of the natural Ice Age
cycle, and as the oceans get warmer, they release increasing amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere.
Because the release of CO2 by the warming oceans lags behind the changes in the earth’s
temperature, we should expect to see global CO2 levels continue to rise for another eight hundred
years after the end of the earth’s current Interglacial warm period. We should already be eight
hundred years into the coming Ice Age before global CO2 levels begin to drop in response to the
increased chilling of the world’s oceans.
The Vostok ice core data graph reveals that global CO2 levels regularly rose and fell in a direct
response to the natural cycle of Ice Age minimums and maximums during the past four hundred and
twenty thousand years. Within that natural cycle, about every 110,000 years global temperatures,
followed by global CO2 levels, have peaked at approximately the same levels which they are at
today.
About 325,000 years ago, at the peak of a warm interglacial, global temperature and CO2 levels
were higher than they are today. Today we are again at the peak, and near to the end, of a warm
interglacial, and the earth is now due to enter the next Ice Age. If we are lucky, we may have a few
years to prepare for it. The Ice Age will return, as it always has, in its regular and natural cycle, with
or without any influence from the effects of AGW.
The AGW theory is based on data that is drawn from a ridiculously narrow span of time and it
demonstrates a wanton disregard for the ‘big picture’ of long-term climate change. The data from
paleoclimatology, including ice cores, sea sediments, geology, paleobotany and zoology, indicate
that we are on the verge of entering another Ice Age, and the data also shows that severe and
lasting climate change can occur within only a few years. While concern over the dubious threat of
Anthropogenic Global Warming continues to distract the attention of people throughout the world,
the very real threat of the approaching and inevitable Ice Age, which will render large parts of the
Northern Hemisphere uninhabitable, is being foolishly ignored.
viernes, 14 de mayo de 2010
THE CELEBRATION OF THE INTI RAYMY 4d/3n
THE CELEBRATION OF THE INTI RAYMY 4d/3n
Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards, the Inti Raymi was the Empire's foremost celebration.
The sun's golden rays shine with a unusual intensity; at least that's the sensation it gives in Cusco - the magnetic center of the world - on the day of the Inti Raymi Celebration of the Sun. Perhaps it's simply a hallucination, an optical illusion or a mirage contrived by the profuse intensity of myths and legends or, maybe, an effect of the magic that pervades the physical limit of the stone walls of the Empire's ancient capital and is absorbed in soul and heart of whoever visits it. And this is because on June 24 it seems as if the city was cloaked in the past and the days of the Tawantinsuyo have returned. Once again, it is Inca who rules; once again, the sun is the Supreme God to whom to pray for abundant harvests and for famine to be vanished.
Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards, the Inti Raymi was the Empire's foremost celebration. It was held during the winter solstice, when the sun is at its furthermost distance from the Equator. The children of the Empire feared that their God, the source of life, would disappear into the vastness of the universe; to prevent this from happening, they implored and begged for him to stay and therefore the Empire would not be overcome by famine.
Day 01: CUSCO.-
In the morning, you’ll be transferred to the Lima Airport for the flight to Cusco (11,000 ft). Upon arrival, we'll go to our hotel and check in followed by a few cups of coca tea to ward off the altitude sickness. Lunch. Ahead of us, we will have a half-day tour of the highlights of Cusco. We will visit the Qorikancha Temple, The Main Square, the megalithic temple of Saqsaywaman, Q'enko, Pucapukara, and Tambomachay. Return to Cusco. Hotel. (B/L)
Day 02: CUSCO - SACRED VALLEY OF THE INKAS (Full Day)
After breakfast you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the Pisaq (9,750 ft)archeological site. You'll be conducted on a guided walking tour around this marvelous templeperched above the dizzying Vilcanota River. Then we’ll visit the Pisaq Andean market. We'll have a buffet lunch and we continue on to Ollantaytambo (9,200 ft). This is a perfect place to appreciate the technology and the vast archeological remnants of Inkas organization. There will be a guided tour. After Ollantaytambo, we'll drive up to Chinchero in our way back to Cusco. Here we’ll visit the colonial church of Nuestra Señora de Monserrate and the archeologicalcomplex. Hotel. (B/L)
Day 03: FESTIVAL OF THE SUN
This is the second largest festival in South America. Hundreds of thousands of people converge on Cusco from other parts of the nation, South America and the world for a weeklong celebration marking the beginning of a new year, the Inti Raymi, or The Festival of the Sun. The Inti Raymi was a religious ceremony of the Inka Empire in honor of the god “Inti” (Sun God), and was the most important Inka Feast celebrated every winter’s solstice. The version is expressed in the original Quechua language. The celebration starts on the Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha) then continues to the Saqsaywaman (12,140 ft), we will provide you the transportation, guide, entrance and box lunch. Afterwards you will be transfer by car to Ollantaytambo in your way by train to Aguas Calientes. Reception, transfer to the Hotel and overnight. (B/L)
Day 04: MACHUPICCHU
Very early and after breakfast we will start our ramble to arrive to Intipunku or The Sun Gate and we can have the first magnificent view of the terrific striking Machupicchu (7.900 ft), then we will descend to our excursion guided to the beautiful Inka Sanctuary, Our hour-long scheduled visit allows you a calm, quiet visit and lets you enjoy the natural beauty and the magical environment of this masterpiece of the Andean man. You'll be conducted on guided tour. After the scheduled hour, you can explore and relax by yourself. After a morning of wandering through the Sanctuary of Machupicchu, we'll return to Aguas Calientes and have lunch. We'll transfer from Aguas Calientes (6,560 ft) to Ollantaytambo (9,200 ft) by train, and by bus proceed back to Cusco. We'll check into our hotel and spend the night there. Farewell dinner show
INCLUDED
1.All the trips and private ground transportation described in the program, including train Cusco - Machupicchu - Ollantaytambo and transfer by bus Ollantaytambo - Cusco
2.Accommodations in select hotels, based on double or single occupancy with breakfast included and one night at Aguas Calientes
3.All the meals indicated in the program. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
4.Entry to all the sites listed in the program. (Optional visits are the responsibility of the individual)
5.All scheduled excursions with English-speaking guide services
6.First Aid kits and all safety equipment including oxygen tank if needed
7.Personalized attention and assistance
NOT INCLUDED
1.International and domestic airfares
2.Fees, tariffs, or taxes for international or domestic flights
3.Re-entry to tourist attractions
4.Personal Expenses
5.Excess baggage charges
6.Additional nights during trip due to flight cancellations
7.Insurance of any kind
8.Extra food or beverages
9.Tips
10.Other costs not specified
RECOMMENDATIONS AND NOTES
•Accommodations, transportation, meals, and optional excursions can be arranged
Prices (US $):
Private Service
Festival of the sun party
pax 1
Pax 2,3
Pax 4
Pax 6 +
Pax
4d/3n
More details at: info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards, the Inti Raymi was the Empire's foremost celebration.
The sun's golden rays shine with a unusual intensity; at least that's the sensation it gives in Cusco - the magnetic center of the world - on the day of the Inti Raymi Celebration of the Sun. Perhaps it's simply a hallucination, an optical illusion or a mirage contrived by the profuse intensity of myths and legends or, maybe, an effect of the magic that pervades the physical limit of the stone walls of the Empire's ancient capital and is absorbed in soul and heart of whoever visits it. And this is because on June 24 it seems as if the city was cloaked in the past and the days of the Tawantinsuyo have returned. Once again, it is Inca who rules; once again, the sun is the Supreme God to whom to pray for abundant harvests and for famine to be vanished.
Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards, the Inti Raymi was the Empire's foremost celebration. It was held during the winter solstice, when the sun is at its furthermost distance from the Equator. The children of the Empire feared that their God, the source of life, would disappear into the vastness of the universe; to prevent this from happening, they implored and begged for him to stay and therefore the Empire would not be overcome by famine.
Day 01: CUSCO.-
In the morning, you’ll be transferred to the Lima Airport for the flight to Cusco (11,000 ft). Upon arrival, we'll go to our hotel and check in followed by a few cups of coca tea to ward off the altitude sickness. Lunch. Ahead of us, we will have a half-day tour of the highlights of Cusco. We will visit the Qorikancha Temple, The Main Square, the megalithic temple of Saqsaywaman, Q'enko, Pucapukara, and Tambomachay. Return to Cusco. Hotel. (B/L)
Day 02: CUSCO - SACRED VALLEY OF THE INKAS (Full Day)
After breakfast you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the Pisaq (9,750 ft)archeological site. You'll be conducted on a guided walking tour around this marvelous templeperched above the dizzying Vilcanota River. Then we’ll visit the Pisaq Andean market. We'll have a buffet lunch and we continue on to Ollantaytambo (9,200 ft). This is a perfect place to appreciate the technology and the vast archeological remnants of Inkas organization. There will be a guided tour. After Ollantaytambo, we'll drive up to Chinchero in our way back to Cusco. Here we’ll visit the colonial church of Nuestra Señora de Monserrate and the archeologicalcomplex. Hotel. (B/L)
Day 03: FESTIVAL OF THE SUN
This is the second largest festival in South America. Hundreds of thousands of people converge on Cusco from other parts of the nation, South America and the world for a weeklong celebration marking the beginning of a new year, the Inti Raymi, or The Festival of the Sun. The Inti Raymi was a religious ceremony of the Inka Empire in honor of the god “Inti” (Sun God), and was the most important Inka Feast celebrated every winter’s solstice. The version is expressed in the original Quechua language. The celebration starts on the Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha) then continues to the Saqsaywaman (12,140 ft), we will provide you the transportation, guide, entrance and box lunch. Afterwards you will be transfer by car to Ollantaytambo in your way by train to Aguas Calientes. Reception, transfer to the Hotel and overnight. (B/L)
Day 04: MACHUPICCHU
Very early and after breakfast we will start our ramble to arrive to Intipunku or The Sun Gate and we can have the first magnificent view of the terrific striking Machupicchu (7.900 ft), then we will descend to our excursion guided to the beautiful Inka Sanctuary, Our hour-long scheduled visit allows you a calm, quiet visit and lets you enjoy the natural beauty and the magical environment of this masterpiece of the Andean man. You'll be conducted on guided tour. After the scheduled hour, you can explore and relax by yourself. After a morning of wandering through the Sanctuary of Machupicchu, we'll return to Aguas Calientes and have lunch. We'll transfer from Aguas Calientes (6,560 ft) to Ollantaytambo (9,200 ft) by train, and by bus proceed back to Cusco. We'll check into our hotel and spend the night there. Farewell dinner show
INCLUDED
1.All the trips and private ground transportation described in the program, including train Cusco - Machupicchu - Ollantaytambo and transfer by bus Ollantaytambo - Cusco
2.Accommodations in select hotels, based on double or single occupancy with breakfast included and one night at Aguas Calientes
3.All the meals indicated in the program. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
4.Entry to all the sites listed in the program. (Optional visits are the responsibility of the individual)
5.All scheduled excursions with English-speaking guide services
6.First Aid kits and all safety equipment including oxygen tank if needed
7.Personalized attention and assistance
NOT INCLUDED
1.International and domestic airfares
2.Fees, tariffs, or taxes for international or domestic flights
3.Re-entry to tourist attractions
4.Personal Expenses
5.Excess baggage charges
6.Additional nights during trip due to flight cancellations
7.Insurance of any kind
8.Extra food or beverages
9.Tips
10.Other costs not specified
RECOMMENDATIONS AND NOTES
•Accommodations, transportation, meals, and optional excursions can be arranged
Prices (US $):
Private Service
Festival of the sun party
pax 1
Pax 2,3
Pax 4
Pax 6 +
Pax
4d/3n
More details at: info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
VIRGIN OF PAUCARTAMBO FESTIVAL 3 Days - 02 Nights
VIRGIN OF PAUCARTAMBO FESTIVAL 3 Days - 02 Nights
For a few days out of each year the quiet, colonial backwater town of Paucartambo comes to life. It is suddenly overfilled with thousands of visitors, spectators who come to see and be a part of one of South America’s most vibrant and fascinating fiestas.
For five days, ( starting on the 15th of July), thousands of devotees hold festivals in honor of the Virgin del Carmen, known locally as Mamacha Carmen, patron saint of the mestizo population. Dance groups, all magnificently masked and costumed in accordance with their respective customs, accompany the Mamacha in a huge parade, gaily dancing down the city streets. Behind them the entire population of the town gathers quietly, forming itself into a pious mass bearing candles, flowers and other offerings. It is a colorful mix of Andean pre-Columbian ceremonies and Catholic religion in which many ancient gods and rites are honored. The Virgin del Carmen (the virgin of Mount Carmel) is a particular apparition of the Mother of Jesus. Images of the Virgin always show her dressed in brown and tan, wearing a flat crown, and holding the Infant Jesus; both of them hold scapulars in their hands. It is said that all those who die while wearing the blessed scapular of the Lady will be saved from the fires of Hell, no matter how great their sins. The Spanish introduced the custom of paying homage to the Virgin. The festival comes from the Old World, where the Virgin was honored in seaports as Stella Maris. The tradition has its origins in the Old Testament, when the prophet Elias retreated to a cave in Mount Carmel in Israel. Many centuries later, hermits following in Elijah's footsteps asked for the protection of the Virgin of Carmen. Mariners and fishermen everywhere soon adopted her as their patron saint. There is a legend that tells of how the festival first came to Paucartambo: long ago, every year during the first days of July, a wealthy woman called Felipa Begolla would always come to Paucartambo to trade goods. She would come with her mule train laden with goods from her homeland, which she exchanged for Paucartambo’s produce.One year on July 16th, while she was unpacking her bundles, Felipa found the head of a beautiful woman radiating rays of light lying among the pots and pans. When she tried to cry out, she found that she could not speak, and when she tried to run she was unable to move. Then the lovely head spoke to her, calming her fears and telling her that her name was Carmen.Felipa put the head on a fine silver dish that she had been carrying with her to trade and, as the head glowed brilliantly, a crowd of muleteers and neighbors gathered around it. A carpenter was commissioned to carve a wooden body for the head and, mounted on an elaborate litter, the Virgin was carried to the local church where her miraculous image was placed on one side of the main altar. On July 16th, now the main day of the fiesta, the Virgin, beautifully adorned, is borne aloft in a fantastic procession through the streets to bless those present and scare away demons. Some of the dancers –the Saqras- in a representation of the never-ending battle between the forces of good and evil, daringly perform gymnastic feats on the housetops, showing off their colorful Inca and colonial garb while they try to seduce the Virgin, crying out as if in pain and trying to avoid her impassive stare. Afterwards, a symbolic battle is staged amongst the devout dancers and the demons, with the traditional victory of the faithful.On the 17th, a feast is held that includes the dead. All the people of the town go to the cemetery to visit their dead relatives and friends. They carry food and drink to celebrate beside the graves.Preparations for the fiesta begin weeks before July 14th, since, on that day and the ones that follow it, everybody is dedicated to celebrating and honoring their patron and do not have time to work.In particular, the 16 groups of dancers, or comparsas, are kept quite busy learning and rehearsing their strict choreography over the few weeks before the celebration. They all represent semi-mythical characters, derived from Peruvian historical folktales and legends, such as malaria victims, Ukukus (half man half bear), condor-men and warlike jungle Indians. On horseback or on foot they reel through the streets throughout the fiesta. A few examples of the different comparsas (participants)
Tres Cruces sits at the edge of the Andes Mountains with a spectacular, never-ending view of the flat Amazon. Sunrise in the months of June and July are characterized by bizarre double-images and the optical illusion of the sun bouncing around during sunrise.
ITINERARY
Day 01: CUSCO - PAUCARTAMBO
Early morning transfer by private transportation from Cusco to Paucartambo village visiting areas such as Urcos and the Ch'ullpas of Ninamarka. About 10.00 am we arrive at Paucartambo(13,200 ft), lodging in a shared accommodations and taking a rest. Then we have a walking tour with our private guide sorrunded by thousands of devotes and visitors. Next we have a buffet lunch with typical cuisine. Later in the afternoon we can observe the sixteen colorful “comparsas”, dancing in honour of the Mamacha del Carmen. After lunch, a riotous firework display is held in the main square, during which the Qhapaq Qolla, the Ch’unchos and the Saqras dance wildly like some medieval vision of hell called “Fogata”. The fogata ('fire') is staged in the night, a representation of Purgatory which continues with a big fiesta and serenade to the Virgen del Carmen. At around midnight, in an emotional gathering, all the comparsas meet again - this time without their elaborate costumes - to solemnly serenade the Virgin in front of the closed doors of the church. (L/D)
Day 02: PAUCARTAMBO - TRES CRUCES DE ORO
After breakfast we attend Central Mass following the great procession of “La Mamacha” to bless those present and scare away demons. We’ll see the different comparsas and specially the “Saqras” who occupy the rooftops and balconies of the town; these are Euro-Andean devils, dressed in vivid rainbow-colored costumes and elaborate animal masks crowned with extravagant wigs. Then we eat lunch. The afternoon is free for enjoying and exploring the site. We have dinner, and then we make our way towards the camp Tres Cruces de Oro, 40 km north away from Paucartambo, which is situated on the very edge of the Andes mountains at a height of 12,100 feet. From Tres Cruces, there is a steep drop into the Amazon basin, which means the view is incredible. It’s most famous for the sunrise in the months of June and July because special climatic conditions mean that there are optical illusions. (B/L/D)
Day 03: PAUCARTAMBO - CUSCO
Wake up before dawn and then we set out to see one of the most beautiful natural phenomena in the world: the sunrise at Tres Cruces de Oro (12,100 ft), where the Sun "dances" in the sky, or the Sun “plays” in the sky. We eat some snacks and we return back to Paucartambo. Breakfast. This day we attend with our guide the Blessing Mass. In the afternoon the image of the Virgin is carried through the narrow streets of the village to the venerable colonial-era bridge named Carlos III, surrounded by all those who have attended the festival, standing or kneeling tightly-packed and respectfully silent, the Qhapaq Qolla and Qhapaq Negro address the Virgin in a moving song of farewell. On this place the Virgin imparts her blessings to the fourth regions (suyos). Ended the procession continues the spectacular “guerrilla” between the group of the Qollas of the Andes and the Antis of the jungle who do mock-battle in a hilarious slapstick encounter recalling the wars between Qollasuyo and Antisuyo in the time of the Inkas. Finally the comparsas venture forth for the last time to dance the traditional Kachapari or farewell, closing for another year this magic feast. Return to Cusco. (B/L)
End of our services
INCLUDED
1.All the roundtrip Cusco - Paucartambo - Tres Cruces - Paucartambo - Cusco by private ground transportation
2.One night in basic accommodations in Paucartambo village with breakfast included
3.Excellent meals as specified in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, T=Tea time)
4.Fully guided sightseeing during the trip
5.English speaking professional guide services included guide assistant
6.Full camping equipment for the 2nd day: large tents for 2 people, Double thickness foam mattress, dining tent with tables and chairs and kitchen tent
7.First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank if needed
NOT INCLUDED
2.Sleeping bags
3.Personal equipment
4.Extra food or beverages
5.Insurance of any kind
6.Personal Expenses
7.Tips
8.Others not specified
RECOMMENDATIONS AND NOTES
•We can provide vegetarian meals or cater for special diets with no extra cost. Just let us know at least 2 days prior to trek departure
SEASON
•15th or 16th17th July
Accommodations, transportation, meals, and optional excursions can be arranged
Ask. - info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
Prices (US $):
Private Service
Paucartambo festival
pax 1 550.00
Pax 2,3 380.00
Pax 4 330.00
Pax 6 + 300.00
Pax
3 D/2n 550.00 380.00 330.00 300.00
More details at: info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
For a few days out of each year the quiet, colonial backwater town of Paucartambo comes to life. It is suddenly overfilled with thousands of visitors, spectators who come to see and be a part of one of South America’s most vibrant and fascinating fiestas.
For five days, ( starting on the 15th of July), thousands of devotees hold festivals in honor of the Virgin del Carmen, known locally as Mamacha Carmen, patron saint of the mestizo population. Dance groups, all magnificently masked and costumed in accordance with their respective customs, accompany the Mamacha in a huge parade, gaily dancing down the city streets. Behind them the entire population of the town gathers quietly, forming itself into a pious mass bearing candles, flowers and other offerings. It is a colorful mix of Andean pre-Columbian ceremonies and Catholic religion in which many ancient gods and rites are honored. The Virgin del Carmen (the virgin of Mount Carmel) is a particular apparition of the Mother of Jesus. Images of the Virgin always show her dressed in brown and tan, wearing a flat crown, and holding the Infant Jesus; both of them hold scapulars in their hands. It is said that all those who die while wearing the blessed scapular of the Lady will be saved from the fires of Hell, no matter how great their sins. The Spanish introduced the custom of paying homage to the Virgin. The festival comes from the Old World, where the Virgin was honored in seaports as Stella Maris. The tradition has its origins in the Old Testament, when the prophet Elias retreated to a cave in Mount Carmel in Israel. Many centuries later, hermits following in Elijah's footsteps asked for the protection of the Virgin of Carmen. Mariners and fishermen everywhere soon adopted her as their patron saint. There is a legend that tells of how the festival first came to Paucartambo: long ago, every year during the first days of July, a wealthy woman called Felipa Begolla would always come to Paucartambo to trade goods. She would come with her mule train laden with goods from her homeland, which she exchanged for Paucartambo’s produce.One year on July 16th, while she was unpacking her bundles, Felipa found the head of a beautiful woman radiating rays of light lying among the pots and pans. When she tried to cry out, she found that she could not speak, and when she tried to run she was unable to move. Then the lovely head spoke to her, calming her fears and telling her that her name was Carmen.Felipa put the head on a fine silver dish that she had been carrying with her to trade and, as the head glowed brilliantly, a crowd of muleteers and neighbors gathered around it. A carpenter was commissioned to carve a wooden body for the head and, mounted on an elaborate litter, the Virgin was carried to the local church where her miraculous image was placed on one side of the main altar. On July 16th, now the main day of the fiesta, the Virgin, beautifully adorned, is borne aloft in a fantastic procession through the streets to bless those present and scare away demons. Some of the dancers –the Saqras- in a representation of the never-ending battle between the forces of good and evil, daringly perform gymnastic feats on the housetops, showing off their colorful Inca and colonial garb while they try to seduce the Virgin, crying out as if in pain and trying to avoid her impassive stare. Afterwards, a symbolic battle is staged amongst the devout dancers and the demons, with the traditional victory of the faithful.On the 17th, a feast is held that includes the dead. All the people of the town go to the cemetery to visit their dead relatives and friends. They carry food and drink to celebrate beside the graves.Preparations for the fiesta begin weeks before July 14th, since, on that day and the ones that follow it, everybody is dedicated to celebrating and honoring their patron and do not have time to work.In particular, the 16 groups of dancers, or comparsas, are kept quite busy learning and rehearsing their strict choreography over the few weeks before the celebration. They all represent semi-mythical characters, derived from Peruvian historical folktales and legends, such as malaria victims, Ukukus (half man half bear), condor-men and warlike jungle Indians. On horseback or on foot they reel through the streets throughout the fiesta. A few examples of the different comparsas (participants)
Tres Cruces sits at the edge of the Andes Mountains with a spectacular, never-ending view of the flat Amazon. Sunrise in the months of June and July are characterized by bizarre double-images and the optical illusion of the sun bouncing around during sunrise.
ITINERARY
Day 01: CUSCO - PAUCARTAMBO
Early morning transfer by private transportation from Cusco to Paucartambo village visiting areas such as Urcos and the Ch'ullpas of Ninamarka. About 10.00 am we arrive at Paucartambo(13,200 ft), lodging in a shared accommodations and taking a rest. Then we have a walking tour with our private guide sorrunded by thousands of devotes and visitors. Next we have a buffet lunch with typical cuisine. Later in the afternoon we can observe the sixteen colorful “comparsas”, dancing in honour of the Mamacha del Carmen. After lunch, a riotous firework display is held in the main square, during which the Qhapaq Qolla, the Ch’unchos and the Saqras dance wildly like some medieval vision of hell called “Fogata”. The fogata ('fire') is staged in the night, a representation of Purgatory which continues with a big fiesta and serenade to the Virgen del Carmen. At around midnight, in an emotional gathering, all the comparsas meet again - this time without their elaborate costumes - to solemnly serenade the Virgin in front of the closed doors of the church. (L/D)
Day 02: PAUCARTAMBO - TRES CRUCES DE ORO
After breakfast we attend Central Mass following the great procession of “La Mamacha” to bless those present and scare away demons. We’ll see the different comparsas and specially the “Saqras” who occupy the rooftops and balconies of the town; these are Euro-Andean devils, dressed in vivid rainbow-colored costumes and elaborate animal masks crowned with extravagant wigs. Then we eat lunch. The afternoon is free for enjoying and exploring the site. We have dinner, and then we make our way towards the camp Tres Cruces de Oro, 40 km north away from Paucartambo, which is situated on the very edge of the Andes mountains at a height of 12,100 feet. From Tres Cruces, there is a steep drop into the Amazon basin, which means the view is incredible. It’s most famous for the sunrise in the months of June and July because special climatic conditions mean that there are optical illusions. (B/L/D)
Day 03: PAUCARTAMBO - CUSCO
Wake up before dawn and then we set out to see one of the most beautiful natural phenomena in the world: the sunrise at Tres Cruces de Oro (12,100 ft), where the Sun "dances" in the sky, or the Sun “plays” in the sky. We eat some snacks and we return back to Paucartambo. Breakfast. This day we attend with our guide the Blessing Mass. In the afternoon the image of the Virgin is carried through the narrow streets of the village to the venerable colonial-era bridge named Carlos III, surrounded by all those who have attended the festival, standing or kneeling tightly-packed and respectfully silent, the Qhapaq Qolla and Qhapaq Negro address the Virgin in a moving song of farewell. On this place the Virgin imparts her blessings to the fourth regions (suyos). Ended the procession continues the spectacular “guerrilla” between the group of the Qollas of the Andes and the Antis of the jungle who do mock-battle in a hilarious slapstick encounter recalling the wars between Qollasuyo and Antisuyo in the time of the Inkas. Finally the comparsas venture forth for the last time to dance the traditional Kachapari or farewell, closing for another year this magic feast. Return to Cusco. (B/L)
End of our services
INCLUDED
1.All the roundtrip Cusco - Paucartambo - Tres Cruces - Paucartambo - Cusco by private ground transportation
2.One night in basic accommodations in Paucartambo village with breakfast included
3.Excellent meals as specified in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, T=Tea time)
4.Fully guided sightseeing during the trip
5.English speaking professional guide services included guide assistant
6.Full camping equipment for the 2nd day: large tents for 2 people, Double thickness foam mattress, dining tent with tables and chairs and kitchen tent
7.First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank if needed
NOT INCLUDED
2.Sleeping bags
3.Personal equipment
4.Extra food or beverages
5.Insurance of any kind
6.Personal Expenses
7.Tips
8.Others not specified
RECOMMENDATIONS AND NOTES
•We can provide vegetarian meals or cater for special diets with no extra cost. Just let us know at least 2 days prior to trek departure
SEASON
•15th or 16th17th July
Accommodations, transportation, meals, and optional excursions can be arranged
Ask. - info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
Prices (US $):
Private Service
Paucartambo festival
pax 1 550.00
Pax 2,3 380.00
Pax 4 330.00
Pax 6 + 300.00
Pax
3 D/2n 550.00 380.00 330.00 300.00
More details at: info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
PILGRIMAGE TO THE LORD OF QOYLLURIT'I 5 Days /4 Nights
PILGRIMAGE TO THE LORD OF QOYLLURIT'I 5 Days /4 Nights
The sanctuary of the Lord of Qoyllurit'i (Snow Star) is located in the foothills of Mount Sinaq'ara 136 km from Cusco at 15,000 feet of height. This is one of the great pilgrimages bringing together people of the Andes since ancient times.
All the "nations" around Ausangate Mountain sent their "gift" or delegation of dancers and musicians which are offered both for the Cristo de las Nieves and for the Sacred Mountain. In this way they show their gratitude and ask for a bountiful harvest, livestock protection, welfare and health. At present, this Indian-Catholic event is held each year since 1780, just before the catholic celebration of Corpus Christi, bringing thousands of pilgrims and visitors to maintain and renew the traditions, faith and worship to the Lord of Qoylluriti; always accompanied by the pilgrims, native dances and the inevitable Pablitos or ukukos (half man and half bear), magical beings who mediate between men and the spirits of the mountains. This character is just as responsible for carrying a symbolic piece of ice from the mountain that will renew the waters and rivers of their own group or nation.
The trip we offer is the same pilgrimage practiced by the peoples of this land.
ITINERARY
Day 01: CUSCO - MAWAYANI
We leave the city of Cusco in a private bus, and drive along Cusco - Puerto Maldonado highway heading Mawayani (13,000 ft). On the way we’ll visit the Inka site of Tipón and the pre-Inka archeological complex of Piquillacta as well as Urcos, where we visit a beautiful lake with the same name. Lunch. We go on passing by Cattca, Ocongate, Tinqui and finally Mawayani after an approximated seven-hour drive. Late in the afternoon, we have the chance to visit the local market, before having dinner at our camp nearby. (L/T/D)
Day 02: MAWAYANI - SANCTUARY QOYLLURIT'I
At 3.00 am we begin one of the most important pilgrimages of the Andes towards Lord of Qoylluriti Sanctuary(15,000 ft), located in a breathtaking spot and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. We slowly hike though an uphill trail along which we will encounter 14 crosses that are venerated on the way; the last one is already located at the Sanctuary. Upon arrival, we will be accommodated at our camp, take a rest and then we’ll have breakfast. Afterwards we will visit the chapel with hundreds of indigenous peoples, visitors and the gangs of dancers and musicians. Lunch. In the afternoon we’ll visit the "Alacitas" market. This is a very curious display in which one buys miniature goods such as cars, houses, cattle, university titles and others, that is only valid during the Qoyllurit’i festivity, according to one’s real wishes. The legend says that whatever you accomplish in this “ritual”, will come true thanks to the power of the Lord of Qoyllurit’i. We stay overnight and then have dinner. (B/L/T/D)
Day 03: LORD OF THE SANCTUARY QOYLLURIT'I - SINAQ'ARA
This day is fully spent at the sanctuary. We will attend the Soul Mass at the sanctuary atrium. We ascend to foothills of Sinaq'ara mount to observe the arrival of Ukukus carrying and sharing a sacred piece of ice. This is a good place to have wonderful views of the festivity itself. We will return to our camp. Lunch. The afternoon is reserved for other activities, for all wanting to join them: the procession of the Lord of Tayankani and the Virgin, several dancing performances, mass at the Sanctuary and the singing to the Lord. At night, after dinner, we enjoy the spectacular “Burning of Castles”, in which wooden construction with fireworks are burned. (B/L/T/D)
Day 04: SANCTUARY QOYLLURIT'I - TAYANKANI
After an early wake up, we pack our bags and get ready for the pilgrimage. We wait and attend the Blessing Mass at 10.00 am and at noon we leave in the so-called “24 hour procession”, together with the rest of pilgrims. The procession leaves from the Sanctuary and runs through Calvario, Machucruz, lagoon Kumukasa and Alqamarina sectors, until reaching Yanacocha, where we arrive at around 06.00 pm. We then take a break for three or four hours and we start again walking during the night towards Tayancani. Visibility is not a problem because the moonlight on this time of the year is enough for the night hike. (B/LT/D)
Day 05: TAYANKANI - CUSCO
Breakfast. After a spectacular night pilgrimage through the Andes, we wait for sunrise, the impressive “Sun Greeting” ceremony. This is a really impressive and moving experience where two of the most important indigenous communities descend in two giant lines from the mountain to encircle one specified area called Intilloqsemunapata (the place where the sun shows itself). Next we descend to Tayancani and attend the blessing mass at this inhospitable and magical place. We continue on hiking up a mountain pass and then down to Ocongate, where we have lunch. In the afternoon, we board our private transportation back to Cusco. (B/L)
INCLUDED
1.All the roundtrip Cusco - Mawayani and Ocongate - Cusco by private ground transportation
2.Excellent meals as specified in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, T=Tea time)
3.Fully guided sightseeing during the trip
4.English speaking professional guide services included guide assistant
5.First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank if needed
6.Full camping equipment: large igloo tents for 2 people, Double thickness foam mattress, dining tent with tables and chairs, kitchen tent, basic toilet facilities & a tap at each camp
7.Horsemen, cookers and horses (to carry tents, food, cooking equipment and personal luggage)
8.Accommodation for our crew
NOT INCLUDED
2.Sleeping bags
3.Personal equipment
4.Extra food or beverages
5.Excess baggage charges
6.Insurance of any kind
7.Personal Expenses
8.Tips
9.Others not specified
RECOMMENDATIONS AND NOTES
•We suggest staying at high altitude above 9,500 ft in Cusco or another high altitude city for at least two to three days before undertaking the trip (Review Tour extensions)
•We can provide vegetarian meals or cater for special diets with no extra cost. Just let us know at least two days prior to trek departure
•You can choose Lord of Qoyllurit’i 03 Days – 02 Nights
•Campsites are subject to change according to the designation as well as to our guide’s criteria and the group progress
Prices (US $):
Private Service
Piligrimage to the lord of qoylluritti
pax 1 600.00
Pax 2,3 450.00
Pax 4 400.00
Pax 6 + 370.00
Pax
5d/4n 600.00 450.00 400.00 370.00
More details at: info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
The sanctuary of the Lord of Qoyllurit'i (Snow Star) is located in the foothills of Mount Sinaq'ara 136 km from Cusco at 15,000 feet of height. This is one of the great pilgrimages bringing together people of the Andes since ancient times.
All the "nations" around Ausangate Mountain sent their "gift" or delegation of dancers and musicians which are offered both for the Cristo de las Nieves and for the Sacred Mountain. In this way they show their gratitude and ask for a bountiful harvest, livestock protection, welfare and health. At present, this Indian-Catholic event is held each year since 1780, just before the catholic celebration of Corpus Christi, bringing thousands of pilgrims and visitors to maintain and renew the traditions, faith and worship to the Lord of Qoylluriti; always accompanied by the pilgrims, native dances and the inevitable Pablitos or ukukos (half man and half bear), magical beings who mediate between men and the spirits of the mountains. This character is just as responsible for carrying a symbolic piece of ice from the mountain that will renew the waters and rivers of their own group or nation.
The trip we offer is the same pilgrimage practiced by the peoples of this land.
ITINERARY
Day 01: CUSCO - MAWAYANI
We leave the city of Cusco in a private bus, and drive along Cusco - Puerto Maldonado highway heading Mawayani (13,000 ft). On the way we’ll visit the Inka site of Tipón and the pre-Inka archeological complex of Piquillacta as well as Urcos, where we visit a beautiful lake with the same name. Lunch. We go on passing by Cattca, Ocongate, Tinqui and finally Mawayani after an approximated seven-hour drive. Late in the afternoon, we have the chance to visit the local market, before having dinner at our camp nearby. (L/T/D)
Day 02: MAWAYANI - SANCTUARY QOYLLURIT'I
At 3.00 am we begin one of the most important pilgrimages of the Andes towards Lord of Qoylluriti Sanctuary(15,000 ft), located in a breathtaking spot and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. We slowly hike though an uphill trail along which we will encounter 14 crosses that are venerated on the way; the last one is already located at the Sanctuary. Upon arrival, we will be accommodated at our camp, take a rest and then we’ll have breakfast. Afterwards we will visit the chapel with hundreds of indigenous peoples, visitors and the gangs of dancers and musicians. Lunch. In the afternoon we’ll visit the "Alacitas" market. This is a very curious display in which one buys miniature goods such as cars, houses, cattle, university titles and others, that is only valid during the Qoyllurit’i festivity, according to one’s real wishes. The legend says that whatever you accomplish in this “ritual”, will come true thanks to the power of the Lord of Qoyllurit’i. We stay overnight and then have dinner. (B/L/T/D)
Day 03: LORD OF THE SANCTUARY QOYLLURIT'I - SINAQ'ARA
This day is fully spent at the sanctuary. We will attend the Soul Mass at the sanctuary atrium. We ascend to foothills of Sinaq'ara mount to observe the arrival of Ukukus carrying and sharing a sacred piece of ice. This is a good place to have wonderful views of the festivity itself. We will return to our camp. Lunch. The afternoon is reserved for other activities, for all wanting to join them: the procession of the Lord of Tayankani and the Virgin, several dancing performances, mass at the Sanctuary and the singing to the Lord. At night, after dinner, we enjoy the spectacular “Burning of Castles”, in which wooden construction with fireworks are burned. (B/L/T/D)
Day 04: SANCTUARY QOYLLURIT'I - TAYANKANI
After an early wake up, we pack our bags and get ready for the pilgrimage. We wait and attend the Blessing Mass at 10.00 am and at noon we leave in the so-called “24 hour procession”, together with the rest of pilgrims. The procession leaves from the Sanctuary and runs through Calvario, Machucruz, lagoon Kumukasa and Alqamarina sectors, until reaching Yanacocha, where we arrive at around 06.00 pm. We then take a break for three or four hours and we start again walking during the night towards Tayancani. Visibility is not a problem because the moonlight on this time of the year is enough for the night hike. (B/LT/D)
Day 05: TAYANKANI - CUSCO
Breakfast. After a spectacular night pilgrimage through the Andes, we wait for sunrise, the impressive “Sun Greeting” ceremony. This is a really impressive and moving experience where two of the most important indigenous communities descend in two giant lines from the mountain to encircle one specified area called Intilloqsemunapata (the place where the sun shows itself). Next we descend to Tayancani and attend the blessing mass at this inhospitable and magical place. We continue on hiking up a mountain pass and then down to Ocongate, where we have lunch. In the afternoon, we board our private transportation back to Cusco. (B/L)
INCLUDED
1.All the roundtrip Cusco - Mawayani and Ocongate - Cusco by private ground transportation
2.Excellent meals as specified in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, T=Tea time)
3.Fully guided sightseeing during the trip
4.English speaking professional guide services included guide assistant
5.First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank if needed
6.Full camping equipment: large igloo tents for 2 people, Double thickness foam mattress, dining tent with tables and chairs, kitchen tent, basic toilet facilities & a tap at each camp
7.Horsemen, cookers and horses (to carry tents, food, cooking equipment and personal luggage)
8.Accommodation for our crew
NOT INCLUDED
2.Sleeping bags
3.Personal equipment
4.Extra food or beverages
5.Excess baggage charges
6.Insurance of any kind
7.Personal Expenses
8.Tips
9.Others not specified
RECOMMENDATIONS AND NOTES
•We suggest staying at high altitude above 9,500 ft in Cusco or another high altitude city for at least two to three days before undertaking the trip (Review Tour extensions)
•We can provide vegetarian meals or cater for special diets with no extra cost. Just let us know at least two days prior to trek departure
•You can choose Lord of Qoyllurit’i 03 Days – 02 Nights
•Campsites are subject to change according to the designation as well as to our guide’s criteria and the group progress
Prices (US $):
Private Service
Piligrimage to the lord of qoylluritti
pax 1 600.00
Pax 2,3 450.00
Pax 4 400.00
Pax 6 + 370.00
Pax
5d/4n 600.00 450.00 400.00 370.00
More details at: info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
viernes, 26 de marzo de 2010
martes, 23 de febrero de 2010
THE AUSANGATE GEOLOGICAL HISTORY
THE AUSANGATE GEOLOGICAL HISTORY The Cordillera de Vilcanota has the second largest concentration of glaciers in Perú; it extends in a northerly direction for about 80 km and then in a westerly direction for about 40 km between lat 13°39' and 14°29'S. and long 70°31' and 71°20'W. (fig. 2, table 1). The glacierized area is 539 km2, as estimated from Landsat images. Drainage is eastward to the Atlantic Ocean by Río Vilcanota, Río Paucartambo, Río Inambari, and Río Madre de Dios. The highest mountain is Nevado Ausangate at 6,384 m asl. Hollin and Schilling (1981, p. 191), referring to the work of Mercer and Palacios (1977), note that "on the north side of [Nevado] Ausangate (6,400 m) in the Upismayo Valley, the present glacier front is at about 4,600 m, while the late Wisconsin-Weichselian limit (sometime between 29,000 and 14,000 B.P.) was at about 4,200 m and the lowest Pleistocene limit at 3,650 m." The Quelccaya ice cap (Zamora and Ames, 1977) is the largest single glacier in Perú, the Ohio State University's Institute of Polar Studies, in cooperation with the Government of Perú, carried out extensive paleoclimatic investigations from 1974 to 1984 of this low-latitude ice cap. In 1983, the project drilled two ice cores measuring 164 m and 154 m in length that contained a climati
sábado, 20 de febrero de 2010
Plastic banned at Machu Picchu
Plastic banned at Machu Picchu
Plastic bottle, Machu Picchu - © John Zwinck
Anyone with any sense hates plastic bottles – the non-biodegradable waste they cause and the blighting of the landscape when people carelessly throw them away. And you would think people visiting world famous and historic sites such as Machu Picchu would have more respect – but no, one of the first things I noticed when I visited were dozens of plastic bottles on the way up, and yet more scattered around the ruins.
Pointing fingers is not something that bothers me, so I’ll do it here. Peruvian school children. There was one plastic water bottle that appeared among the ruins after Peruvian school children passed through, and at historic sites across Peru, most of the damage – and the damage is usually extensive or at least very noticeable – is caused by young Peruvians with no respect for their heritage. Lack of respect is also a problem among Peruvian adults, because despite Peru’s vast tourism revenues, its institutions are given next to no funding to protect historic sites from having names graffittied on to them.
At Machu Picchu at least, the war against dumped plastic bottles is about to be quickly and efficiently won. All plastic disposable bottles will be banned from the region all together. From the 17th of April tourists won’t be able to buy them at – or even bring them into – Aguas Calientes or the ruins at all.
“This measure responds to the necessity of avoiding a negative environmental impact caused by the use of these plastic bottles,” explained Edgar Miranda, the mayor of over-priced tourist-trap Aguas Calientes, the town that ridiculously changed its name to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
The town’s workers have to work through 18 sacks of plastic bottles that have been properly disposed of each day to separate them from other organics and inorganics that can be recycled locally. Banning plastic bottles altogether is estimated to save 40,000 soles a month in costs to move the waste by train to nearby Cusco.
Aguas Calientes has other plans on the books, namely replacing plastic bags with paper ones and joining forces with private organisations to fight against pollution
Plastic bottle, Machu Picchu - © John Zwinck
Anyone with any sense hates plastic bottles – the non-biodegradable waste they cause and the blighting of the landscape when people carelessly throw them away. And you would think people visiting world famous and historic sites such as Machu Picchu would have more respect – but no, one of the first things I noticed when I visited were dozens of plastic bottles on the way up, and yet more scattered around the ruins.
Pointing fingers is not something that bothers me, so I’ll do it here. Peruvian school children. There was one plastic water bottle that appeared among the ruins after Peruvian school children passed through, and at historic sites across Peru, most of the damage – and the damage is usually extensive or at least very noticeable – is caused by young Peruvians with no respect for their heritage. Lack of respect is also a problem among Peruvian adults, because despite Peru’s vast tourism revenues, its institutions are given next to no funding to protect historic sites from having names graffittied on to them.
At Machu Picchu at least, the war against dumped plastic bottles is about to be quickly and efficiently won. All plastic disposable bottles will be banned from the region all together. From the 17th of April tourists won’t be able to buy them at – or even bring them into – Aguas Calientes or the ruins at all.
“This measure responds to the necessity of avoiding a negative environmental impact caused by the use of these plastic bottles,” explained Edgar Miranda, the mayor of over-priced tourist-trap Aguas Calientes, the town that ridiculously changed its name to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
The town’s workers have to work through 18 sacks of plastic bottles that have been properly disposed of each day to separate them from other organics and inorganics that can be recycled locally. Banning plastic bottles altogether is estimated to save 40,000 soles a month in costs to move the waste by train to nearby Cusco.
Aguas Calientes has other plans on the books, namely replacing plastic bags with paper ones and joining forces with private organisations to fight against pollution
miércoles, 17 de febrero de 2010
QHESWACHAKA INKA BRIDGDE BIKING 2D/1N
QHESWACHAKA INKA BRIDGDE BIKING 2D/1N
This is an absolutely unique tour designed for adventure-lovers that combines cross-country and downhill biking along the beautiful four high-Andean lagoons of Pomakanchi, Acopia, Pumapamarka and Asnaqocha. Then you’ll turn to the Inka Bridge of Qheswachaka. This bridge more than 500 years old spans the Apurimaq River (12,800 ft) and is surrounded by spectacular and amazing landscapes of the Vilcanota Range. Finally we’ll have a fantastic river rafting excursion at the Chukiqawana section of the Vilcanota River.
ITINERARY
Day 01: CUSCO - FOUR LAGOONS - YANAOCA - QHESWACHAKA .-Departure towards the southern Cusco in our private transport right to Lagoon Pomaqanchi, where the first section by bicycle starts for 20 kilometers (cross country). Then we have a picnic lunch. Then we are transferred in our private supporting vehicle to Yanaoca. Next we have a downhill bike ride for about 35 km (downhill) arriving to Qheswachaka Inka Bridges (12,800 ft). We take a rest and then guided visit to the Inka Bridge. Here we camp, then eat dinner and overnight. (L/D)
Day 02: QHESWACHAKA - CHUKICAWANA - KUSIPATA - CUSCO.-After early breakfast we travel by car up to Chukiqawana's bridge which is two and a half hour trip. We'll arrive at the banks of the Vilcanota River. The guides will give us a safety briefing followed by a practice on the river and will provide us with all the proper equipment for this adventure. After this we will have two hours in the water running class II, III and IV rapids until we arrive to Kusipata zone. Later in the afternoon we have lunch and return back to Cusco city(B/L)
INCLUDED
1. All the trips and private ground transportation described in the program
2. All meals indicated in the program. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, T= Tea time D = Dinner)
3. Entry to all the sites listed in the program
4. English-speaking guide services included guide assistant
5. Camping equipment for two days (Tents for sleeping, the mess tent, the kitchen tent, a portable latrine, air mattresses, tents for our staff, folding tables and chairs, mess kits and utensils)
6.Giant – Trek – GT – Giant mountain bikes in good maintenance, mountain bike gear (helmet, gloves, knee guards) and bike technical support and spare parts
7. First Aid kits, emergency oxygen tank if needed and all safety equipment
NOT INCLUDED
1. Extra food or beverages
2. Sleeping bags
3. Insurance of any kind
4. Personal Expenses
5. Tips
6. Other costs not specified
NOTE
•Accommodations, transportation, meals, and optional excursions can be arranged
Private service throughout the year
Prices
Private Service
QHESWACHAKA INKA BRIDGDE BIKING 2
* Prices For a Person in US Dollars
This is an absolutely unique tour designed for adventure-lovers that combines cross-country and downhill biking along the beautiful four high-Andean lagoons of Pomakanchi, Acopia, Pumapamarka and Asnaqocha. Then you’ll turn to the Inka Bridge of Qheswachaka. This bridge more than 500 years old spans the Apurimaq River (12,800 ft) and is surrounded by spectacular and amazing landscapes of the Vilcanota Range. Finally we’ll have a fantastic river rafting excursion at the Chukiqawana section of the Vilcanota River.
ITINERARY
Day 01: CUSCO - FOUR LAGOONS - YANAOCA - QHESWACHAKA .-Departure towards the southern Cusco in our private transport right to Lagoon Pomaqanchi, where the first section by bicycle starts for 20 kilometers (cross country). Then we have a picnic lunch. Then we are transferred in our private supporting vehicle to Yanaoca. Next we have a downhill bike ride for about 35 km (downhill) arriving to Qheswachaka Inka Bridges (12,800 ft). We take a rest and then guided visit to the Inka Bridge. Here we camp, then eat dinner and overnight. (L/D)
Day 02: QHESWACHAKA - CHUKICAWANA - KUSIPATA - CUSCO.-After early breakfast we travel by car up to Chukiqawana's bridge which is two and a half hour trip. We'll arrive at the banks of the Vilcanota River. The guides will give us a safety briefing followed by a practice on the river and will provide us with all the proper equipment for this adventure. After this we will have two hours in the water running class II, III and IV rapids until we arrive to Kusipata zone. Later in the afternoon we have lunch and return back to Cusco city(B/L)
INCLUDED
1. All the trips and private ground transportation described in the program
2. All meals indicated in the program. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, T= Tea time D = Dinner)
3. Entry to all the sites listed in the program
4. English-speaking guide services included guide assistant
5. Camping equipment for two days (Tents for sleeping, the mess tent, the kitchen tent, a portable latrine, air mattresses, tents for our staff, folding tables and chairs, mess kits and utensils)
6.Giant – Trek – GT – Giant mountain bikes in good maintenance, mountain bike gear (helmet, gloves, knee guards) and bike technical support and spare parts
7. First Aid kits, emergency oxygen tank if needed and all safety equipment
NOT INCLUDED
1. Extra food or beverages
2. Sleeping bags
3. Insurance of any kind
4. Personal Expenses
5. Tips
6. Other costs not specified
NOTE
•Accommodations, transportation, meals, and optional excursions can be arranged
Private service throughout the year
Prices
Private Service
QHESWACHAKA INKA BRIDGDE BIKING 2
* Prices For a Person in US Dollars
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