Adventure Specialists inc.
Bear Basin Ranch Westcliffe Colorado 81252
www.adventurespecialists.orgE-mail: info@adventurespecialists.org Phone 719 782-2076
In Search of Machu Picchu
Exploring the Andes on horseback and foot, a magical journey back through time. An Introduction to the best of Inca Peru… a quality alternative to the abused, overused Inca Trail with focus on Andean culture, history and Inca archaeology studies.
Rated Moderate
About the Trip: "This unique adventure follows a series of forgotten Inca trails through some of the wildest country in the world. During event filled days, we travel back in time, traveling through medieval villages, past cascading waterfalls, over high passes and explore remote ancient ruins. Our route traverses the Andes at altitudes between 7,000 and 15,000feet, taking us well above timberline before finally descending into the high cloud forest. We observe varieties of delicate orchids, rare birds, plants and seldom visited Inca ruins. Ample time is programmed to experience Cusco, key Inca sites and modern Andean culture. As backpacking hoards crowd the guidebook trails, we plan our route along little known, seldom traveled routes that once were the main arteries of the highland Inca homeland. By utilizing sturdy mountain horses and mules, we are able to climb over high passes on steep trails that take us beyond the capabilities of most backpackers and trekking groups. "The availability of quality, mountain experienced saddle horses insures arrival for those who may not be quite up to the altitude or distance or who just enjoy riding." The British Horse Society
"In view down the great canyon of the Urubamba below us is the long cloud forested ridge of Llactapata. The steep slope conceals a large complex of Inca ruins rediscovered and investigated by our Inca Research expeditions, led by Adventure Specialists' archaeologist Gary Ziegler and noted British author/explorer, Hugh Thomson in 2003." Barry Walker MBE, author of " Field Guide to the Birds of Machu Picchu"
Suitability: This is a safari style quality adventure using pack-stock to carry all gear and camping amenities. An experienced staff of bilingual guides and local packers accompany a small group of guests. Comfortable camps offer delicious meals prepared from fresh meats, grains and vegetables served in our large dining tent with tables and chairs.
One or two persons are assigned a weather tight, quality, four person sleeping tent. Each day begins with a pan of hot water and coffee or tea served at your tent. Before the evening meal, we enjoy happy hour with popcorn, assorted hot beverages and for those who imbibe, our famous expedition vodka martini and fine Chilean wine. Our well trained, sure-footed, no nonsense horses (we own and train them ourselves at our Sacred Valley facility) are generally a bit smaller than American and European saddle horses but carry us over the high passes with amazing energy. We do limit rider weight to 220 lbs. (100kls) (Comfortable, padded, new South American-style saddles are used.) Althought you do not need to be an expert rider some experience and being confortable around horses is recommended.
Who we are: The owners/operators of Adventure Specialists Peruvian adventure program represent a highly skilled staff of professionals. U.S. based Adventure Specialists and Peru's Manu Expeditions offer a tantalizing variety of exciting and unusual back country excursions. Gary Ziegler, founder of Adventure Specialists, has a far flung history which includes a Ph.D. in archaeology, archaeological expeditions into remote Peru and Mexico, work for National Geographic, The Discovery Channel, museums and universities. Gary has been organizing and leading expeditions and groups in Peru since 1964. His accomplishments include the first ascents of seven high ice peaks and the discovery and documentation of new archaeological sites. In June, 2000, he co-directed and led an expedition documentary film production in Peru for the Discovery Channel. In 2001 Gary co-led a National Geographic expedition which located and excavated the Inca outpost of Corihuayrachina. In 2002 and 2003 he co-led the Thomson-Ziegler Expeditions that located and investigated the important Inca sites of Cota Coca and Llactapata near Machu Picchu. He is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society of London and the Explorers Club of New York.
Managed by internationally recognized ornithologist/explorer, Barry Walker MBE, author of " Field Guide to the Birds of Machu Picchu" and Cusco born wife, Rosario Velarde, The Manu Expeditions guides and staff have vast experience. They are logistical wizards who insure trips go smoothly and that guests are expertly attended to. Gary leads most of our mountain Inca research expeditions while Barry leads special birding and rain forest study projects. They occasional lead Machu Picchu trips for special programs. Manu Expeditions and its sister US based company Adventure Specialists, founded adventure travel in Peru. Gary Ziegler began designing and guiding A.S. educational adventure programs in Peru in 1971. Barry, Gary, Rosario and US manager, Amy Finger, maintain the highest standards with hands on management and continuing development of new and ongoing programs.
Guides : Machu Picchu Programs
EDWIN DUENAS Age 38 leads most of our Machu Picchu trips each season. A native of Cusco, he is fluent in Quechua, Spanish and speaks Italian and English well. As close to a living Inca as one can get, his family history goes back before the conquest. One of Peru's most experienced backcountry guides, he is an avid student of Andean history and culture. Edwin holds a doctoral and law degree from Peru's San Antonio Abad University. When not in the field, he practices civil law in downtown Cusco. Edwin is an extraordinary skilled and knowledgeable trip leader who gives his all to each program. Other equally qualified guides may lead several of our Machu Picchu trips each season
The Agenda:
Day 1 Sat) This will be a travel day from home and you may arrive on an overnight flight to Lima, especially if traveling from North America, and connect directly to Cusco early Monday morning. Arrangements can be made to assist you onto your connecting Cusco flight or we can advise you of the process should you feel uncomfortable in strange airports or arrange overnight on Saturday in Lima if required.
Day 2 Sun.) Arrival in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incas. We greet you at the airport. (plan to arrive on one of the early flights if possible). Following brief orientation and a cup of traditional coca tea, we organize an afternoon introductory walk around town with a visit to the archeology museum and the Coricancha, temple of the Sun, the most important of Inca ceremonial sites. Most will need the morning to rest and recover from yesterday's travel. Refreshed and eager, we meet for dinner at a favorite restaurant. Our guide may tell the story of legendary Manco Inca and the lost cities of Vilcabamba or perhaps we just get to know each other. There are many days ahead to hear the story of the Incas. We lodge in a comfortable quiet hotel near the main plaza.
Day 3 Mon.) Leaving Cusco in the rear view mirror, we travel by van over a low pass then down into the famous Sacred Valley of the Incas. The scenery is unsurpassable, close and distant snow peaks glistening in the sun. The Sacred Valley is the location of the major Inca temple/fortress of Ollantaytambo. Probably built by the great Inca ruler, Pachacuti in the 1460s, it was the site of Hernando Pizzaro’s defeat by Manco Inca in 1536. Constructed of finely cut polygonal stones and rhyolite blocks, the fortress and nearby town represent the best of Inca architecture and construction. Large worked blocks, some weighting as much as 100 tons were quarried from a site more than a thousand vertical feet above the valley floor using a technique of pecking with hammer stones, then skidded down and across the Urubamba river several kilometers to the temple site. Inclined ramps were built to raise the blocks several hundred feet up hill to the construction area. We have ample time to examine the complex and ponder its many mysteries. We will also undertake a hiking tour of the extensive Inca hill top complex of Pisac. We overnight at a comfortable inn in the valley at an altitude of 2600 meters. Clean sheets, traditional Peruvian dinner and chilled, Cusqueña beer complete the day. BLD
Day 4 Tues): Wakeup call…coffee, breakfast…we are soon bouncing along the back roads in a tough Manu Expeditions overland bus, eager to start the trek. Sometime around mid-morning, we pull up to what looks like a set from an old Eastwood movie. A colorful band of desperados, our crew of Quechua speaking wranglers as it turns out, are busily saddling horses while assorted local kids and elderly spectators look on. Our guide gives a short riding lesson concerning our sturdy Andean ponies and day trail instructions as duffels and gear are expertly sorted and matched to mule loads.
Leaving tents and baggage to follow, we set off up a winding trail into the remote Cordillera Vilcabamba range. This is not just any old trail. Gaining altitude we soon realize that we are on a well constructed Inca highway, carefully planned to make the climb as easy as possible. If weather permits, spectacular views of geometric Inca fields dominate the valley below. Crossing Edychayoq pass at 3800 meters, we descend for a picnic lunch at Wilkaracay. After lunch a steady climb takes us over over Vicuñitas Pass, 3,900 Mts. where there is a breeding station for Vicunas, a rare Andean camelid closely related to the Llama and world renowned for the quality of its wool. Later, descending to a place called Chaqui, we reach our first campsite camp at 3700 meters. Travel time is 6 to 8 hours with an estimated distance of 12 miles. The staff sets up a large dining tent with tables and chairs. One or two persons are assigned a four person sleeping tent.
Meals are prepared from fresh meats, grains and vegetables. Our seasoned (no pun intended) cooks are well experienced in catering to vegetarian diets for those of that calling. Before the evening meal, we enjoy happy hour with popcorn, assorted hot beverages and for those who imbibe, our famous expedition vodka martini or a glass of select Chilean wine. BLD
Day 5 Weds): After tea and coffee served in bed along with a tub of warm washing water, we breakfast in the large tent then head out (usually around 8:30 or so). This may be our longest and most physically exerting day. Travel time will be 7-8 hours. Following an ancient Inca custom still practiced to-day, we join our wranglers in offering coca leaves to the Apu's or mountain gods who allow us a safe passage. Our journey takes us over Milpucasa pass at 4650 meters/15,250 ft. We pass through several Quechua villages where home-woven ponchos and clothing present opportunity for photos and a view of mountain life. A lunch of Hot soup and broiled chicken follows the hump over the pass. Finally, we climb down again to arrive at the traditional village of Pampacahuana, 3900 meters. Camp is pitched beside an ingeniously designed Inca canal.BLD
Day 6 Thurs): Wow…it's all downhill today. Departing camp, we soon reach tree line below. The abundance of wild flowers and small songbirds indicates a warmer climate and changing eco zone. Lunch is set beside the interesting Inca site of Paucarkanca. Reflecting the Inca genius for enhancing natural topography and blending design with in-site stone, Paucarkanca is a classic example of early `Frank Lloyd Wright' architecture. The site dominates a ridge dividing two major valleys at the junction of two Inca roads. Large U shaped terraces andenes surround two walled compounds kanchas inclosing a number of well made field and worked stone houses. The construction appears to replicate the shape of the ridge and mountain rising above. The site probably served as a control point and way station Tambo but also may have been an estate or residence for someone important. We have ample time to explore, speculate and share observations. Turning up the Quequa valley, the route steadily climbs on an ancient Inca road connecting Cusco with Machu Picchu, to our next campsite at 3,700 meters. BLD
Day 7 Fri): After a hearty breakfast a steady climb from camp brings us to Puerto Huayanay pass at 4550 meters/14,950 ft. Climbing a switch backing trail, we follow the old stone paved Inca road to the ruins of Incarakay, a tambo or way station on the royal highway. Descending from the pass, we enter a broad glaciated valley below the massive ice walls of Nevado Huayanay. Lunch is set beside deep green Ancascocha lake. Continuing down the Silque valley, our route follows a small, active glacier fed river to a campsite at Saylla, 3500 meters. BLD
Day 8 Sat): Last day of the ride…a leisurely day with extra coffee and late start. We continue along the Silque Valley passing a beautiful canyon full of native plants, shrubs, multicolored Hummingbirds and Orchids. We arrive at camp in time for an Andean traditional feast, Pachamanca. (potatoes, lamb and spices cooked in a pit covered hot stones). Announcing day's end, deep shadows bring on a peacefully cool Andean night, Glasses filled with a good wine; We toast our staff and the successful completion of a magical journey back through time .BLD
Day 9 Sun.) Sadly bidding horses, mules, cooks and wranglers goodbye, we hop aboard the morning narrow gauge train heading down valley. An interesting hour of click, clack and sway with all of the accompanying sounds and smells of rural Peru takes us to our overnight stop at the bustling backpacker town of Aguascaliente. Some may opt to stay here relaxing at our comfortable hotel while we hike up to the journeys final famous destination.(not to worry…if you stay behind, you will have ample time to see all tomorrow…it's your call)
MACHU PICCHU, one of the most magical and mysterious places on Earth! Situated on the spine of a jungle cloaked granite peak towering some 2,000 ft. above an entrenched meander of the roaring river below, the site is frequently shrouded in misty clouds pierced by the powerful equatorial sun. Constructed from precisely sculptured granite blocks carefully joined with the projecting exposed stone of the surrounding mountain, the site may well be the finest architectural achievement of the new world.
Jumping off the train, leaving river and forest behind, we bus1,500 ft. up a winding zig-zag road.Some may opt to rest or enjoy the small bustling town that will be our night's location.We bus back down with the setting sun to Aguascalientes, joining those who have stayed behind at the hotel (yes Matilda…plenty of hot water). Dinner follows at the local gourmet French bistro or perhaps simpler beer and pizza at one of the track side cafes. Some undoubtedly opt for after dinner Pisco Sours and dancing on the hill. B:L:D
Day 10 Mon.) Early visit to MACHU PICCHU long before the tourist hoards arrive… The morning is yours to explore and photograph. A moderate hike along a finely constructed Inca trail takes us to INTIPUNKU at 2950 meters/9000 ft., the impressive Gate of the Sun overlooking Machu Picchu, otherwise romantically known to the tourist world as "The lost city of the Incas". Gary Ziegler's description of the site is a bit more academic but that another story if you read his papers and reports.We meet at the Intihuatana high point, Our guide concludes the story of the raise and fall of the ancient civilizations of the Andes with the tragic end of the Inca and the enigma that this remarkable site remains.
In view, down the great canyon of the Urubamba below is the long cloud forested ridge of Llactapata. The steep slope conceals a large complex of Inca ruins rediscovered and investigated by our Inca Research expeditions led by Gary Ziegler and noted British explorer, Hugh Thomson in 2003.
Boarding the Cusco bound afternoon train, we arrive back in the Capital of the Inca and comfortable rooms at our selected hotel, Andes de America, near the central plaza. We gather later for a final celebration dinner at the Hotel's fine restaurant. B:L:D
Day 11 Tues) This is the day to rest, shop and wander around Cusco. The city abounds with small shops and street side vendors selling their wares. Colorful weavings and hand made alpaca sweaters are popular gifts for friends at home. Most migrate to the Cross Keys, Cusco's only authentic English Pub, for drinks and lively conversation with the resident congregation of guides, expatriates, adventurers, treasure hunters and smugglers from far corners of the universe. Humphry Bougard and Harrison Ford usual have the back table next to the pool table. B.
Day 12 Weds) Breakfast at the hotel then we help you onto the morning flight to Lima. Adios amigos… buen viaje. (see Lima below)
Scheduling Suggestions:
Arrival: We recommend arriving in Cusco a day or two before the program if possible. You will enjoy added time exploring the many interesting aspects of the region and extra time helps acclimation to the high altitude. We arrange hotels, other services and suggest itineraries for a 10% service fee over the actual cost
Lima: Flights from Cusco arrive between 8:30 AM and 2:00 PM. Depending on your connecting flight schedule home, you have several options. U.S. bound flights seems to leave either late at night or early in the morning.
We recommend taking a room in Miraflores for the day or overnight if leaving the next morning. Miraflores is a bustling upbeat suburb of Lima above the beach where one can enjoy relaxing or endless activities. We can make the hotel arrangements and transfers to and from the airport.
This is our latest itinerary that we make every effort to follow however, Peru is subject to strikes, weather, landslides and many events beyond are control which may cause changes and delays. We may also change the route from time to time for other good reasons. Please come prepared to cheerfully accept the unexpected with the insurance that you are in the hands of the most experienced and best adventure program operator in Peru.
THE 4 DAY MANU RAIN FOREST TRIP LEAVES EVERY FRIDAY. THE 6 AND 9 DAY MANU RAIN FOREST TRIPS LEAVE ON SUNDAYS. Ask about joining the rain forest biosphere adventure which leaves and returns to Cusco after this program
Travel Insurance:
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance when you book. This can reimburse you if you need to cancel last minute due to sickness or other emergencies. This is available on line or through the agency below.
Inclusions: The price includes accommodations in safari style camps, tourist class or better hotels and inns (double occupancy), land travel, meals except in Cusco, all trip gear, horses, tack, bilingual guide and local support staff, entrance fees.
Exclusions: Not included are airport taxes, air travel, bottled drinks, gratuities, optional activities, personal expenditures, meals in Cusco, costs resulting from illness or injury and emergency evacuation, program changes and delays beyond our control.
Reservations: info@adventurespecialists.org
Call or e-mail us to answer your questions or make a reservation. Carefully read the application/contract form for details about payment, cancellation, refunds and legal responsibilities. You can reach us. As we are frequently outdoors and leading trips, we do not maintain a regularly staffed office. We do however, check the answering machine and will promptly return your call or e-mail
SUGGESTED READING:
1) Lost City of the Incas: The Story of Machu Picchu and its Builders. Hiram Bingham.
Orion, London.2001.
2) Realm of the Incas. Max Milligan 2001
3) The Conquestof Peru, William H. Prescott. New American Library, 1961.
4) The Conquest of the Incas, John Hemming. Hartcourt Brace 1970
5) Pizarro, Conqueror of the Inca. National Geographic. Feb. 1992 Vol. 181, no. 2.
6) The Incas And Their Ancestors, Michael Moseley. Thames and Hudson, 1993.
AVAILABLE IN CUSCO:
7) Exploring Cuzco, Peter Frost. Lima, 1984
8) Machu Picchu- The Sacred Center. Johan Reinhart, Lima 1991
9) Machu Picchu Abandoned, Gary Ziegler, Lima 1996.
10)Beyond Machu Picchu, Gary Ziegler, Crestone 2001
11) Forgotten Vilcabamba, Vincent Lee 2000
12) The White Rock, Hugh Thomson 2001
13) The Machu Picchu Guide Book, Ruth Wright and Alfredo Valencia
14) Machu Picchu; A Civil Engineering Marvel, Kenneth Wright and Alfredo Valencia,2000
15) The Birds of Machu Picchu. Barry Walker (available in Cusco)
EQUIPMENT AND PREPARATION LIST:
__Passport __Credit cards and cash for tips, Lima meals, shopping etc.__Airline tickets.__Travel Insurance to include emergency medical, trip cancellation etc. Available any travel agency._Duffle bag or large frame less pack for the majority of your gear.__Plastic garbage bags to line duffle for waterproofing on the trek.__Day Pack or Fanny Pack...for daily items and camera-plastic bag to protect__Warm Sleeping Bag (to 20ø) May be rented in Cusco. __sleeping pad __Extra Bag for Purchases...optional __Leisure clothing for travel and dining out. We have same day laundry service in Cusco.__Long Underwear, helps prevent saddle sores__Lightweight waterproof hiking/riding boots-well broken in.__Waterproof gaiters or half chaps for riding/hiking__Leisure Shoes...for camp and in town.____Warm outer coat or parka. Or shell jacket and two polar fleece type pullovers for layering__
Sweater-locally made alpaca sweaters can be purchased in Cuzco for about $15.00__Rain gear- Good quality two piece suit.. we have had poor luck with Gortex (and it will rain)__Hat with a Brim...essential for sun and rain protection.__Warm cap and gloves (it can snow)__Assortment of light expedition clothes. pants, shirts, socks, underwear, trail shorts.__Toiletries...biodegradable soap, sun block (#30 or more) lip balm & personal items__Insect Repellant__Personal medications... Ask your Doc about Diomox for altitude comfort__Water Purification Kit-iodine or filter for hotels etc. We boil camp and trail water__Sun Glasses...Uv is intensive at Altitude near the Equator. We recommend quality glacier glasses.__Flashlight...with extra bulb and batteries- We like headlamps.__Pocket knife.__Water Bottle__Camera and film. film can be bought in Peru __Binoculars .
HEALTH: We ask that you consult your family doctor concerning what medications, shots or inoculations he or she may recommend. Unless you travel to Manu, you will probably not be exposed to tropical diseases such as malaria and yellow fever. The occasional case of travelers diarrhea can be rapidly treated with Cipro or other medication that your doctor may suggest. We have a very low incidence of illness on our trips. We eat in only the best restaurants and our own cooks are carefully sanitation trained. We have had good results with Diomox as an aid in acclimatization and alleviation of the effects of altitude. Ask your doc.
WEATHER: This is a trip of great contrasts. In the high altitude. It can get very chilly, even into the 30's at night and then zoom into the 70's during the day. When we descend into the cloud forest, the temperature rises into the 80's. Although the dry season normally persists April through November, it can rain (or snow at high altitudes) at any time. please come prepared.
Have A Great Trip!
Gary Ziegler
Barry Walker
Rosario Velarde
Amy Finger