Six Faces Of Peru

This is a Sightseeing Grade 4 holiday. It combines sightseeing around outstanding pre Hispanic sites of which Machu Picchu is the most celebrated example, and walking in the Peruvian Andes. This walking will generally be on good paths with plenty of stops so our local guides can bring to life the significance of what we are seeing. There are plenty of opportunities for walking through beautiful scenery. The walks will be at high altitude, for instance the Taquille walk starts on the shores of Lake Titicaca at about 3800m. The walks will be at a slow pace to take account of the altitude and will typically last a maximum of 3hrs. Paths are generally good underfoot. However they are sometimes stony and steep for short sections so walking poles can be useful.

Each evening, the leader will discuss with you the programme for the following day. If you do not wish to join in the planned activities, please let the leader know. 

This holiday is predominantly sightseeing although as most of the sightseeing is done on foot you will still have plenty of opportunities to exercise. We have some excellent walks through stunning scenery but these are generally half-day walks taken at a gentle pace as we will be walking at high altitude. Good examples of the walks are the descent from Pisac Ruins to Pisac Market, a leisurely descent through stunning scenery and ancient ruins, Sacsayhuaman to Chacan and the walk across Taquile Island. These walks will take about 3 hrs. Obviously the visit to Machu Picchu will involve a lot of walking but it could not really be described as a walk. Do not worry unduly about walking at high altitude: we will walk at a slow pace stopping regularly to take in the stunning views. 

Please note: This itinerary has been planned to be busy and full-packed so that you make the most of your time and experience as much as possible. There will be some free time during the tour, for you to explore on your own or relax, and details will be confirmed locally by your leader.

Get closer to nature with holidays that veer on the wild side of life.

From safaris in Africa, to sea lion spotting on the Galápagos Islands and visits through tropical rainforests alive with bird song and frog chorus; we share our planet with some of the world’s most magnificent animals. Who wouldn’t want to see elephants trumpeting, lion’s prowling and buffalo’s bathing around the waterholes of the African plains?

Without being designated as specialist wildlife holidays intended specifically for wildlife enthusiasts, these holidays will appeal to the traveller who likes to see wild birds, mammals and reptiles up close in their natural environment. Some holidays will have naturalist guides, others will simply be escorted by non-specialist tour leaders with an interest in the natural world.

On our Six Faces of Peru holiday, we visit the Amazon jungle, probably the richest wildlife environment on the planet. Whilst staying in our jungle lodge expert local guides will take us out to encounter many, many species. Highlights might include Giant Otter, Howler Monkeys and Caiman. Prepare for a unique and wonderful experience.

In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

The currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol (PEN). US Dollars are also widely accepted in tourist shops. ATMs dispense either Nuevo Sol or US Dollars. It is normally better to pay in Nuevo Sol and you will get a poor exchange paying in dollars.

Although entirely at your own discretion, tipping is an important aspect of tourism and hospitality life and expectations are fairly high.  In order to simplify tipping, we strongly recommend that you allow your leader to take care of making sure tips are given to hotel and restaurant staff and to local guides and drivers. This will be done using some funds provided by us together with, if you wish, a contribution from you, which he/she will collect during the holiday. A suggested amount given is £30 - £40 per person.

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

To enhance your experience, as well as your tour leader, each holiday will be accompanied by a well qualified and knowledgeable English-speaking local guide.

We fly from London to Lima and vice versa.

Within Peru we travel by air, rail, small boat and road as per the itinerary above. Details of your baggage allowance will be confirmed in your travel documents, sent to you approximately ten days before departure.

As we travel between eight hotels, and you will have to handle your own baggage, please try to travel reasonably light. You should be able to lift and carry your own luggage. At some hotels, the coach may have to stop some distance short of the hotel entrance. Also, within some of the hotels there may be some long walks between the rooms and lobby area, which may include steps. Your luggage should be kept to a maximum of 20kg (44lbs).

If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.

Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.

If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.

Although airport/station transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport/station, depending on your arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.

Please be aware that you must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight/train arrival to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point or independent travel arrangements to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.

When you book a flight or rail inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport/station and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.  

If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

For entry into Peru a passport is required which should be valid for 6 months beyond your intended stay. Your passport is often required when checking into hotels and when changing money, so carry it with you on these occasions. It is also an excellent idea to memorise your passport number for the form filling. No visas are required for UK nationals.

The holiday is on a half board basis with breakfasts and dinners provided in hotels or local restaurants. Meals commence with breakfast on Day 2. Lunch is included on 4 days. Also please note we will provide lunch on Day 2 instead of dinner.

The food is generally excellent with potatoes, beans and rice predominate in the mountains and fish, particularly served raw as ceviche, a Peruvian classic, common on the coast.  Vegetarians are generally well catered for but some patience at mealtimes may be required.

On arrival at hotels you will on occasion be offered a Pisco Sour, the national drink.  It consists of Peruvian Pisco brandy, lime (or lemon) juice, syrup, ice, egg white, and bitters.  It tastes rather like angels crying on your tongue as any Peruvian will tell you.   Please do not confuse Peruvian Pisco with Chilean Pisco, both nations claim the spirit as their national drink.

The hotel(s) listed within this document are examples of standard only. Whilst we strive to deliver the hotel(s) listed within this Holiday Information Sheet, there will be times throughout the year when they change. You will be sent an accommodation list with air tickets about three weeks before departure. From time to time hotels will change near to departure and you will not be advised until after arriving into the destination. We always aim to provide a replacement of similar standard and location, although we cannot guarantee similar facilities such as pool or bar.

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

• Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
• Lightweight quick-drying trousers
• Walking T-shirt/shirts
• Walking socks
• Fleece or jumper
• Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
• Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
• Swimwear & towel (if appropriate)
• Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
• Day sack liner
• Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
• Basic first aid kit
• Lunchbox
• Walking poles (should you find them useful)
• Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

We recommend that you to pack your clothing and equipment in a strong suitcase or holdall and take a small rucksack to carry those items you will need during the day. You will also require a small bag for the two night trip to the Amazon jungle and for your trip to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

New regulations on travelling to Machu Picchu mean we are no longer allowed to take suitcases on the train to and from Machu Picchu. Now our main suitcases are left under lock and key in Cuzco and we need an overnight bag for the night in Yucay and the night in Machu Picchu. Apparently there is a weight limit of 5kg for the bag you take on the train to Machu Picchu. This weight limit is not strictly enforced but please pack lightly. The rules for the site at Machu Picchu say that your rucksack should not be more than 20 litres as they want to avoid damage to the site from huge backpackers’ sacks. This is not rigidly enforced if you have a small enough looking pack. The rules also state that you are not allowed to bring walking poles unless you are ‘elderly or infirm’. No precise definition of who falls into these categories is given. If you bring poles they must have rubber ends on them and you should put them inside your rucksack along with your food (which is also banned). No rucksack searches are made.

For visiting the jungle the process is more straightforward. We take all luggage on the flight to Puerto Maldonado. Suitcases are left at the hotel's main office in Puerto Maldonado. You then need your overnight bag for the two nights in the jungle. Our local agent supplies clients with a small bag which is convenient for carrying water, binoculars etc. We pick up suitcases before boarding the plane back to Lima

We also recommend you take a waterproof jacket, trousers, some long-sleeved shirts, warm fleece together with thin jumpers, woollen socks, shorts and lighter summer clothes, swimwear and a towel. Also consider bringing wet wipes, universal sink plug and swimwear. Binoculars are essential for wildlife viewing the jungle. There is no electricity in the Amazon lodge after ten o’clock each night when they turn off the generator so a torch is strongly recommended.

Documents and Information to take with you:

• Passport (make sure it's yours and valid)
• Your travel tickets or e-ticket itinerary
• Any visa or electronic travel authorisation (if required)
• Holiday money
• Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
• Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
• Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
• Your holiday Booking Confirmation document
• Your travel insurance details
• Alternative form of identification (such as a driving licence)
• Photocopy of the personal details' pages of your passport
• A valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if relevant
• Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Electricity is supplied at 110 Volts at 60Hz. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a two pin North America style adaptor with flat pins. More information can be found at  https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/

The following books have been recommended by previous clients:

• Three Letters from the Andes - Patrick Leigh Fermor, Penguin
• The Penguin History of Latin America - Edwin Williamson
• Eight Feet in the Andes - Dervla Murphy, Flamingo
• The Conquest of the Incas – John Hemmings
• Inca Kola ~ A Travellers tail of Peru – Matthew Parris

Many local libraries stock a good selection of travel guides/books which may offer you more information on Peru. You may find the following website useful: Peru State Tourism: https://peru.info/en-us/ 

If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

You may wish to look at the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination; BBC weather or MyWeather2. 

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Peru.

You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK.

Tetanus, Hepatitis A and Typhoid immunisation is recommended.

You might also like to consider immunisation against Rabies, Diphtheria and Yellow Fever.

There is a risk of Malaria in some low altitude regions and a very low risk in other parts of the country. 

Dengue fever and Zika virus also exist in Peru; please take normal precautions against mosquito bites. 

Seek pre-travel Zika virus advice from your health care provider 6-8 weeks in advance of travel, particularly important if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.  

You should also be aware of issues associated with travelling at high altitudes. The lower atmospheric pressure at higher altitudes results in less oxygen finding its way into the blood. Problems usually start for most people at around 2,500 to 3,000 metres. If you reach this altitude gradually the body can accustom itself to having less oxygen, and once you are above it if you gain further height slowly you are less likely to have problems. It is important on arrival at destinations at this kind of altitude to rest for a few hours and not to over-exert yourself in the first day or two, as over-exertion can make altitude problems more likely. Local people also swear by coca leaf tea, which you will probably be offered on arrival, as a means of preventing or treating altitude problems. It is harmless and if you drink plenty of it, it will at least help you to avoid dehydration, something else that makes altitude problems more likely, so drink plenty of fluids (not alcohol!) at these high altitude destinations. Anybody who has a medical condition affecting blood circulation or breathing or has any other worries should consult their doctor before departure.

Altitude sickness can affect travellers whose itineraries take them above about 2,500m although some individuals can experience a milder form above about 1,900m. 

Early symptoms include a headache, nausea, shortness of breath, loss of appetite and insomnia.

For further advice please visit:

• The National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) travel health website at www.travelhealthpro.org.uk
• The NHS 'Fit for travel' website at www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk
• The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
• Or a local travel health clinic

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

If you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you are unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland, please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilise this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en-route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimise the use of mobile devices. Your co-operation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.