Trek Preparation MACHU PICCHU - Embark Exploration Co.€¦ · Trek Preparation MACHU PICCHU Congratulations! You are about to embark on the journey of a lifetime, and we at Embark

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Trek Preparation MACHU PICCHUCongratulations! You are about to embark on the journey of a lifetime, and we at Embark Exploration Co. are thrilled to have the opportunity to support you every step of the way.

We know that an adventure like this is both exciting and perhaps a bit daunting, so we want to make sure you have all the information you need right now for the safest, most comfortable journey possible. We have been organizing overseas adventures for more than a decade, and we’re honored you’ve chosen to explore with us.

This dossier includes the general information you’ll need to know during the months preceding your adventure. We will be sending additional details closer to your departure date with specific logistical and contact information.

“In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.”

JOHN MUIR


IN THIS DOSSIEROverview 3A LITTLE ABOUT PERU AND MACHU PICCHU 3

Before your Trip 4PRE-DEPARTURE TIMELINE 4

GETTING TO PERU 5

RECOMMENDED GEAR LIST 7

TRAINING 8

Common Questions 9WHAT ARE THE LARES AND SALKANTY TREKS? 9

HOW ARE THE TREKS SET UP? 9

HOW HARD IS IT? 9

WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE? 9

DO I NEED A VISA? 10

DO I NEED INSURANCE? 10

DO I NEED IMMUNIZATIONS? 10

IS ALTITUDE A RISK? 10

WHAT IF I CAN’T FINISH THE CLIMB? 10

CHANGING OR CANCELLING MY TRIP? 10

CAN I EXTEND MY TRIP? 10

WHAT IS A TYPICAL DAY LIKE? 10

WHAT IS THE TERRAIN LIKE? 10

WHAT IS THE SLEEPING ARRANGEMENT? 11

WHAT DO WE EAT? 11

WHAT ABOUT SANITATION AND HYGENE? 11

WHAT ABOUT COMMUNICATION BACK HOME? 11

IS THERE ANY WILDLIFE TO WORRY ABOUT? 11

WILL WE BE CLIMBING WITH ROPES OR OTHER GEAR? 11

WHAT HAPPENS BEFORE AND AFTER THE CLIMB? 11

DO WE TIP? 11

CAN WE LEAVE THINGS AT THE HOTEL WHILE WE CLIMB? 11

About Embark 13WHAT SETS US APART 13

» Hand-Crafted Trips » Leadership » Social Responsibility » Foundations We Support

CONTACT INFORMATION 13

FEEDBACK 13


A Little About Peru and Machu PicchuPERU IS A LAND OF SOARING PEAKS AND modern cultures attached directly to their noble past. For the Incas, landscape was a sacred tableau, each peak a divine pres-ence, and every mountain pass an entry into new and sacred realms. Long-distance walking was itself a frankly spiritual activity for the Inca, uniting the Four Realms of their empire with the “navel of the world,” their high-altitude capital of Cuzco. If walking was the motor of Incan civilization, today it will be your own entry into the staggering beauty, rising challenges, and transportive experience of this mysterious yet welcoming land.

Instead of one “Inca Trail” there were actually 40,000 miles of roadway that ran from the Amazon to the Pacific and from Columbia to Argentina, stitching together an empire the size of Western Europe. Employing stairways, erosion controls, and rest houses, these roadways were surveyed, measured, and engineered so well that half a millennium later, thousands of miles are still in use—including by us. Portions of our itineraries pass over old Inca roadways, and you will see villages, still inhabited and little changed since the arrival of the Spanish 500 years ago. Our guides, expert in the cultural inheritance all around you, will bring this landscape alive with knowledge of the “savage moun-tain,” Salkantay, and the ancient routes of Lares. And your treks will begin and end in frank encounter with a proudly

modernizing Peru. New resources and routes have allowed us to bring clients deeper into the splendid mountains than virtually all other visitors to Peru, but you will also encounter the glories of Cuzco, an open-air museum, and the urban energy of Lima and busy Sacred Valley towns where modern life coincides in a uniquely Peruvian marriage with the nation’s ancient origins.

OVERVIEW Our Lares Valley and Salkantay treks are spectacular, un-crowded alternatives to the traditional and oversubscribed “Inca Trail” itinerary. Instead of sending you down the same route as everyone else, into the 4,000-people-a-day maw of Ma-chu Picchu, we offer routes that swing through greater Cusco Province, alternating rich cultural encounters with moments of high-mountain solitude.

Preparation and acclimatization are key for Peru. From day ne—Cusco airport is at nearly 11,000 feet—the altitude demands respect, and we help our clients adjust steadily to the challenge, building up mileage and difficulty while supporting our treks with highly-trained, expert guides. Your reward is entry into treking’s high-altitude homeland, where some hard footwork—no trekking day is at less than 9,000 feet—produces a series of unimaginable vistas and the epic, even life changing payoff of seeing Machu Picchu unveil itself from the clouds.

At Embark, we seek to anticipate and answer your pre-trip questions with this review of conditions, equipment, fitness, difficulty and health during your visit to Peru. We are also eager to hear directly from you with follow-up questions or planning advice.


UPON REGISTRATION

» Copy of your passport

» Confirmation of overseas medical and/or travel insurance

» See below for more

6 MONTHS

» Finalize your travel dates, including air travel. Buy your plane tickets 3-9 months in advance.

» Invite friends/family you’d like to join you.

» Schedule an appointment with your doctor, or a travel clinic, for immunizations.

» Organize and begin your training program. See below for details.

4 MONTHS

» Confirm who is going with you.

» Shop for and begin testing your gear.

» Keep training.

3 MONTHS

» Send Final Payment to Embark

2 MONTHS

» Be sure your immunizations are up to date. Some immunizations have long lead times and require multiple doses. Further details on immunizations is below.

» Keep testing your gear.

» Keep training!

1 MONTH

» Make sure all logistics are in place

» Finish purchasing all necessary gear

» Keep training!

1 WEEK

» Taper your training

» Pack

» Rest

Get excited for your big adventure!

Before Your TripFor many people , planning a climb in Peru seems like a highly daunting task, with count-less details and variables to consider. Embark has developed a checklist of the most important highlights when planning an expedition to this mystical Lost City of the Incas.

PRE-DEPARTURE TIMELINEAny trip to Peru, but especially one that includes a trek of this nature, involves several steps to be taken several months prior to departure. This timeline is a rough but reliable guideline for when you should tackle your to-dos.


Getting to

PERUFLYING TO LIMAAll international flights into Peru route through Lima, with connections to most destina-tions throughout the country. Some flights out of North America and Europe arrive late in the evening after the last flight to Cusco has departed. In these cases, an overnight stay in Lima will be required before proceeding to Cusco. If you need hotel recommen-dations, we would be happy to help.

TRAVELING TO CUSCOThere are four airline carriers that fly round-trip between Lima and Cusco:

» LATAM Airlines

» Avianca Airlines

» Star Peru

» Peruvian Airlines

All offer similar schedules and in-flight service, but we usually recommend either LAT-AM or Avianca as they tend to be the most helpful when unexpected flight cancellation or delays occur.

» CHECKED BAGGAGE NOTE: Be sure to check checked baggage weight limits. Some of these airlines allow 50lbs checked baggage free internetionally but charge a small fee for the same weight limit within Peru. It is not an exhorbitant fee but it is best to be fully informed before flying.


Recommended Gear ListAlthough trekking Machu Picchu does not require specialized equipment, you do need to make sure all your gear is appropriate, serviceable, and in good working order. Consider both standard and personal demands for comfort and safety before embarking up the mountain: Do you have warm climbing pants? Good rain gear? Trekking poles? Have you hiked more than 100 miles in your boots to break them in?

Each person we ask names a different item as the most important piece of equipment to bring, from the perfect jacket to a specific brand of baby wipes. Ask around, think about what it takes to keep yourself comfortable and happy, and get your checklist in order well before your departure date.

HIKING BOOTSIf your boots don’t work, not much else matters. You need real trekking boots, not sneakers or “trail runners.” But we can’t tell you which boots to buy. The essential elements you need are ankle support, a stiff sole, and waterproofing - but you need the boots that meet all these criteria and fit comfortably. And remember, they need to fit with liner socks and your hiking socks, so that’s what you need to wear when hiking more than 100 miles in your boots to break them in. (We mean it!)

When shopping, test the boots for toe room by lacing them

completely and then moving your toes as far forward as possible. At that point you should be able to slip a finger behind your heel. Walk around in them, making sure they don’t crease on the top. Toes crammed? Too small. Heel slipping? Too big. Then take them home and wear them around the house only . If you find they don’t fit and you haven’t scuffed them by walking outside, you should be able to take them back; confirm with the store before trying!

LUGGAGEYou will need a waterproof pack/duffel bag; it must hold all your gear for the entire trip, as well as keep it dry. We recommend a size of about 90 liters. For the Salkantay trek this duffel needs to be without wheels or any stiff parts since it will often be carried via horse or mule. For the Lares trek, since your gear will be transported via vehicle it can have wheels but ideally would not be a hard-shell suitcase. This bag will be transfered for you in advance of your arrival at the next night’s lodging. You carry a smaller daypack with food, water, rain gear, and your camera. Be sure to test and clean all your gear in advance. The worst thing you can do is leave this preparation until the last minute.

Be sure all luggage is lockable and tagged with your name. More information regarding your large duffel and a day-pack can be found in our Machu Picchu Training Plan located in your group’s resource page through Embark’s website.


Other Clothing & GearNOTE: “Synthetic” below means definitely no cotton! Once cotton is wet, it’s useless or worse. You want materials that dry quickly, provide warmth even when damp, and wick moisture away from your skin.□ 2 SYNTHETIC SHIRTS, LONG SLEEVE. These are also good for

starting on layers, for all sorts of weather.

□ 2 SYNTHETIC T-SHIRTS, SHORT-SLEEVED. Remember, “all sorts of weather” includes warm.

□ 2 PAIRS OF SYNTHETIC HIKING SHORTS. It’s nice to have a backup pair in case one gets extremely dirty or damaged.

□ 1 PAIR OF SYNTHETIC TREKKING PANTS. Look for the kind with zip-off leggings, so that these can be short or long pants, and it’s easy to switch during the day.

□ 1 PAIR OF WARMER HIKING PANTS. Don’t go too heavy with these; remember the idea of layers. Lightweight wool or a synthetic like fleece recommended.

□ 1 OR 2 PAIRS OF FLEECE LONG UNDERWEAR/ TROUSERS. Again, we suggest lightweight, because you will want to layer without getting overheated while hiking.

□ BUFF OR BALACLAVA. For warmth and/or to keep dust out.

□ 1 PAIR OF SOCKS PER TREKKING DAY, WITH AT LEAST 2 PAIRS OF LIGHTER (SYNTHETIC) SOCKS AS LINERS. It’s nice to have a fresh pair each day; we also like to keep one in the sleeping bag, to be worn only at night. Dry, clean socks at night are a must.

□ 1 PAIR OF UNDERWEAR PER DAY. Again, no cotton!

□ 1 WARM FLEECE SWEATER. Zip-up is preferred over pullover (for flexibility in conditions. It’s okay to go at least medium-weight here, as this is largely for relaxing in camp.

□ 1 RAIN/WIND SHELL + 1 PAIR OF RAIN/WIND PANTS. Look for Goretex or other such materials which repel moisture but also allow for ventilation. Without that feautre, you’ll just get soaked with sweat.

□ 1 DURABLE PONCHO. This is nice for covering you and your pack, and also for sitting on during rest breaks or lunch.

□ 1 PAIR OF FLEECE GLOVE LINERS. These should also be lightweight; think about them fitting into your mittens or waterproof outer gloves.

□ 1 PAIR OF COLD WEATHER GLOVES OR MITTENS. These are the bigger, warmer ones for cold, dry situations - and as a backup pair.

□ 1 WARM HAT. This would be the knit, wrap-around style designed for warmth. Rain protection comes from your rain gear.

□ 1 SUN HAT. It is very important that this is wide-brimmed. Remember, common places for sunburn include the back of your neck and tops of your ears.

□ 1 BALACLAVA. This can double as a hat and a neck/face guard. Some pull down into a three-hole “ski mask” configuration; others leave the whole face clear.

□ 1 PAIR OF GAITERS. Waterproof ankle- or mid-calf-height.

□ 1 PAIR OF WALKING/CAMP SHOES. These can be as lightweight and comfortable as you wish.

□ 1 PAIR UV-BLOCKING SUNGLASSES. Should be self-explanato-ry, but do not go cheap on these! Maximum UV-blocking is critical.

□ A TRAVEL WALLET

□ PASSPORT/MONEY BELT

□ SPARE CAMERA MEMORY CARD AND BATTERIES

□ 1 WATERPROOF DUFFEL BAG, PREFERABLY NORTH FACE BASE CAMP.

□ 1 DAYPACK. COMFORT AND FIT ARE IMPORTANT, AS IS DURABILITY. You don’t want this to fall apart during the trip. A good size is about 25 to 30 liters.

□ RAIN COVER FOR YOUR DAYPACK. Make sure it’s the right size!

□ PLASTIC BAGS OF DIFFERENT SIZES (TO PROTECT CLOTHES AGAINST RAIN). Often these can be found in a set of

bags, sometimes called “stuff sacks.”

□ 2 TREKKING POLES. These are very important for balance and for spreading the effort of balancing oneself throughout the body. We recommend the types that “telescope” down to size. It makes them easier to carry and also lets you adjust the length for different circumstances.

□ 1 EMERGENCY FOIL BLANKET, AKA THE “SPACE BLANKET.”

□ 3 ONE-LITER WATER BOTTLES , OR SUBSTITUTE WITH HYDRATION PACK. The latter might come with a hose to drink out of without taking off your pack. (If you get that, consider a liner to keep the hose from freezing.) Whatever you get should be rugged.

□ SUN BLOCK; WE SUGGEST THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE SPF RATING.

□ SMALL FIRST AID KIT. Mainly something to have with you during the day. Guides will have a much larger one.

Other Equipment Specifically for Tented Excursions□ 1 WARM MOUNTAIN SLEEPING BAG (10 DEGREE RATED (F)).

The “mummy style” bag with narrowed top and enclosing facial area is recommended. This is another “don’t go cheap” item, as it is critical to sleep well. You might also consider an optional sleeping bag liner.

□ YOUR PREFERRED PILLOW, BUT WITHOUT THAT COTTON PILLOWCASE. Sometimes we just use a spare shirt.

□ 1 HEAD LAMP WITH EXTRA BATTERIES. Better than a flashlight, because you can keep your hands free.

□ A SMALL CAMP TOWEL MADE OF QUICK-DRY MATERIAL.

□ 1 POCKET KNIFE (BE SURE TO CHECK IT ON ALL FLIGHTS!). This could also be a Leatherman or Swiss Army Knife with other tools.

□ SLEEPING PAD. Many models are now “self-inflating,” which is a nice feature.

□ EAR PLUGS IN CASE A TENT MATE SNORES.


TRAININGWhile Machu Picchu is not a technical climb, it is a big mental and physical challenge and should be recognized as a serious undertaking. Therefore, it is important to develop a comprehensive training program – 4-6 months in advance – to help increase your odds of making it all the way to this mystical city in the sky. The general rule for training for this trek is that the more you exercise and prepare, the more you will enjoy yourself.

If you do not exercise on a regular basis, you need to begin now. Also, since training with a partner increases accountability and makes it more fun, we suggest you look for a training partner - perhaps someone else in your group.

Your goal in training should be that, ultimately, you will feel comfortable walking over rough terrain for 5-7 days on end. It is all about endurance: Most people, when pressed, can push their bodies to do something physically strenuous for one day. But to put your body through that same strain for multiple days on end is much more challenging.

Of course, your cardiovascular conditioning is paramount. However, since this climb will challenge your body in many ways, aim for variety in your training. Try to incorporate jogging, overnight hikes, walks, swimming, or biking into your weekly routine. The more cardio development you build into your exercise routine, the better. And the more variety you can work in, the less likely you are to get bored.

If possible, hiking at higher altitudes to see how your body reacts to altitude is extremely beneficial. The more time and experience at higher elevation, the better accustomed you will be to navigate the pitfalls that can come with altitude sickness.

If you live where there are no major hills or mountains, the next-best choice is repetitive hiking. One or two hikes on the weekend are fine, but try hiking every day. Add weight to your pack to make it more difficult, keep a training log, and try to find small hills to climb. When time permits, try to hike seven to nine miles per day, and try to do this multiple days in a row.

Perhaps most importantly: start your training program immediately. The body will not adapt well if you wait to start training until shortly before your trip. For example, it takes about four months of solid training to finish a marathon, and the vast majority who do not properly train never finish. The same can be said for mountaineering. For more detailed instruction and a step-by-step 4-month training guide see our Machu Picchu Training Plan; which can be found at your group’s resource page through Embark’s website.


Some Common QuestionsWe have been doing this a long time, and here are some of the questions we get most often from future climbing partners. If you have more, please get in touch with us!

WHAT ARE THE LARES VALLEY

AND SALKANTAY TREKS?

These are alternative routes toward Ma-chu Picchu. Each offers distinct conditions and different levels of support. Both of these routes will challenge you, carve lasting impressions on your memory, and take you deep into the most rewarding landscape of discovery on earth.

HOW ARE THE TREKS SET UP?

* The Lares Valley trek incorporates a variety of high-altitude segments around the Sacred Valley starting with a 14,300’ pass. This trek is supported, with a combination of walk-in lodges and overnights in the Sacred Valley, This trek offers more cultural encoun-ters, but some shorter days and the presence of vehicle support should not be mistaken for easy: the challenge on this route is the consistent high altitude.

The Lares Valley trip is considered a Supported Expedition, because it involves long, arduous travel and the ascent of several passes above 12,000 feet, but is also also accommodated each night in lodges. Guides will lead each hike, and clients are transported between segments in private vans, which

also transport all gear from lodge to lodge, so that you carry only a day pack.

* The Salkantay trek is one continu-ous lodge-to-lodge route and includes excellent walk-in lodges and an almost solitary route through a truly unusual “back door” approach to the railhead at Machu Picchu. While much of the route is in a lower, warmer climate, the challenges here are longer daily distanc-es. There is more wilderness, but fewer traditional cultural encounters along this route.

The Salkantay is considered an Un-supported Expedition, with no vehicle available after Day 1, long and stren-uous daily segments at high altitude, a challenging variety of cold and warm climates, and some steep Inca stairways. Nonetheless the trek benefits each night from quality wilderness lodges and superbly-trained guides.

HOW HARD IS IT?

We believe that anyone in good physical condition can do these treks. The Salkantay Trek is rated strenuous, for its longer duration and higher altitude, while the Lares Valley Trek is considered moderate, due to shorter routes and greater support options. All treks involve discomfort, long periods of travel, early mornings and sometimes long days, and difficult high altitude sessions of walking on natural terrain, where falls and injuries are not unknown.

WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE?

Peru’s highlands are close to the equator, with a year-round temperatures averaging from the upper 60s down to nightly lows in the 40s. Rainfall rises in November and declines again in April, with May to Oc-tober the driest time, during which time you can expect mostly sunny days followed by cooler nights, with the possibility of a morning frost. The average daytime temperature during this time is 49.5F, July is usually the coldest month of the year, in some locations it can get down to 32F.

But you can expect mountain weather at any time of year: changeable, with chilly nights, intense sun, and occasional rain. Variations in microclimate are even more intense—one day of trekking can include alpine fog and lush tropical lowlands, and Machu Picchu, which is surprising-ly warm, has given many visitors a bad sunburn or worse.

Given theses general rules, plan for chilly nights, and pack multiple layers that can be swapped repeatedly during a day or week. Assume that in the realm of the Incas, you will face cold and rain at some point; although you could get lucky!

DO I NEED A VISA?

There is no need to apply for a tourist visa in advance. Peru has granted waivers to citizens of the US and most other coun-tries, and the visa is granted automatically on arrival. Check that your passport if valid for at least six months beyond the date of your trip.


DO I NEED INSURANCE?

Yes. Given the remote destinations and conditions encountered on this trip, and the fact that random things can happen that are beyond anyone’s control, we require that everyone who tours with us have overseas medical/travel insurance: $50,000 for medical insurance and $50,000 for evacuations. You should also note that most US-based medical insurance policies may not cover you on active adventures outside the country.

You can find our requirements as well as a few company recommendations here:

https://embarkexplorationco.com/re-sources/insurance-requirements/

Please note that if you are choosing to also purchase travel/trip cancellation insurance this can often be time-sensitive. Many insurance companies will require you to purchase their travel insurance within a certain time period of giving a deposit for the trip. This policy is established to prevent people from realizing they cannot go on a trip and then purchasing insurance to get reimbursed.

DO I NEED IMMUNIZATIONS?

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says that, in addition to routine vaccinations such as measles/mumps, tetanus, and chickenpox, all travelers to Peru should be up-to-date on Hepatitis A and Typhoid. They also suggest you speak to your doctor about other vaccinations you might want to get. We highly recommend you get the latest information from this website as it has more information for those who might be planning on visiting different regions in Peru before or after the trek:

https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destina-tions/traveler/none/peru

IS ALTITUDE SICKNESS A RISK?

Almost everyone will have at least some version of soroche, or Peru’s version of altitude sickness, which has often been described as feeling “like a bad hangover.”

With Cuzco’s airport sitting at nearly 11,000 ft., the body struggles from arrival to adapt to less oxygen. The acute version is called AMS, for Altitude (or Acute) Mountain Sickness, and symptoms include

vomiting, dizziness, headaches, and loss of appetite. They can vary from mild to severe, and are most common on the first days fo the trip. That said, altitude sickness can strike at random, downing even the most fit trekker while leaving a novice with little more than a headache.

We want to stress that it is common to get mild forms of AMS and continue trekking after allowing for acclimatization. The best response is to rest. Oxygen is avail-able in our Cusco hotels, and acclimati-zation walks are carefully paced from the beginning. Supplemental oxygen, hydra-tion, common pain relievers, and a little time can work wonders. You might also consider beginning a course of Diamox before ascending to altitude, which thins the blood, making it able to absorb more oxygen. Taken properly, Diamox can help, but consult a physician before beginning any course of medicine. WHAT IF I CAN’T FINISH THE CLIMB?

Inform a guide immediately if you are feeling sick; the best remedy may be to descend to a lower altitude. Guides can arrange evacuation at your request and expense. As a precaution, the most diffi-cult section of high altitude pass on each route is accompanied by a mule (Lares) or horse (Salkantay), to assist an ill person if necessary.

Should you need to return to town early, due to physical limitations or an inability to complete the climb for any reason, we will assist you in evacuating. Any extra nights at a hotel will be at your own expense.

WHAT IF I HAVE TO CHANGE OR CANCEL MY TRIP?

Please give Embark as much notice as possible for any trip cancellations. Official cancellations must be in writing. Cancellation charges are based on the date of the receipt of written notification as follows:» 0 - 59 days before trip begins: no refund

» 60 - 90 days before trip begins: 25 percent of the total price paid

» 91 days and more: loss of trip deposit

Embark highly recommends you purchase

trip cancellation insurance in case you need to cancel your trip. Be mindful that some travel insurance companies require that you purchase insurance within a certain period after paying a deposit on your trip, often 10 days, so you will want to be mindful of that detail. Check the terms of the proposed coverage carefully!

Finally, if additional changes to the trip are made while on the trip, such as new hotels or additional services, you will be billed for additional services within two weeks upon your return.

CAN I EXTEND MY TRIP?

Absolutely. If you wish to show up early or stay late, that is at your expense. If you would like to add a trip to the Amazon or other adventure through Embark Explo-ration Co., just get in touch!

WHAT IS A TYPICAL DAY LIKE?

Since weather is most stable in the morning, most days are early starts—some as early as a 5:30 breakfast—and early finish, allowing for free time, recovery, or additional afternoon hikes to archaeolog-ical and natural features. Breakfast and dinner are lodge-prepared or prepared by a cook at the campsite and first class packed lunches are provided. You will hike with only your day pack while larger packs are transferred ahead by vehicle (Lares) or pack animal (Salkantay). Expect sore feet and a celebratory mood at the end of each day.

WHAT IS THE TERRAIN LIKE?

The Incas flourished in a region defined by its verticality—the winding valleys, and high limestone escarpments, let them control and access many, very different environments, from the low tropical gardens around Machu Picchu to the frigid altiplanos and iced peaks above. Our terrain changes every day, and sometimes within a day. Routes are graded for total combined effort rather than a single (and possibly) misleading indicator like distance or grade. Some days are higher, but also shorter, others are longer but lower; and, this being Peru, there will always be a reward for the climb. You will see every-thing from muddy forest to rocky plain, and can encounter unexpected streams, so sturdy and broken-in footwear is a must.


A back-up pair of camp shoes or sandals is recommended. Traction devices are not necessary for these routes. WHAT IS THE SLEEPING ARRANGE-MENT?

In Cusco, we will stay at an excellent and colorful hotel. This time is crucial for acclimatization and includes training/orientation walks around this historic city. Our lodge treks offer accommodation each night, with private rooms and bath-rooms. Tented treks will include a hotel on the front and back end of the trek and we will sleep two people in a three person tent on trek.WHAT DO WE EAT?

During the trek you’ll be served three meals a day, including plentiful hot break-fasts (featuring eggs, bacon, baked goods, cereals, and more) and full-scale dinners emphasizing the wonderful Peruvian in-gredients and high standards of this proud cuisine. Expect a surprising palette and sophisticated presentation.

Lunch on trekking days may include a drop-in feast arranged with local villages, or a trekker’s lunch of sandwich, snack, drink, and extras like fruit, granola bars, chocolates, and juice.

The only meals not covered are those in Cusco (except our group orientation dinner) and at Aguas Calientes, at the foot of Machu Picchu.

WHAT ABOUT SANITATION AND HYGIENE?

Our lodges include hot showers and some even have soaking tubs to work off sore muscles. We trek with a simple field kit of TP during the day. Hand sanitizer is available at all times and its use is strongly encouraged as this greatly reduces the transmission of illness within any group.

For our camping routes we carry toilettes with us for the duration of the trek.

WHAT ABOUT COMMUNICATION BACK HOME?

Most people contact their service providers and get an international calling, messaging, data plan for their travels. Some people purchase a cheap phone upon arrival, with a local SIM card and use that phone for calls/text messaging. The one big disclaim-

er is that coverage, especially during remote days of trekking, cannot be ensured, so please do not rely on cell phone coverage while you are in Peru. Wifi is available at the lodges, but should be considered an added bonus, and may not always be available to you. We encourage our clients to take this opportunity to disconnect from their devices somewhat, and connect with each other and the once-in-a-lifetime experience of high Peru. IS THERE ANY ANIMAL LIFE?

The llama and its smaller cousin the alpaca are both frequently seen in do-mesticated herds, while the approaches to Machu Picchu host a small number of sun bears. Count yourself lucky if you spot one of these small, mottled bears, which are endangered and harmless to humans. Bird life is exceptional, including sightings of condors at high altitude and many tropical species as we descend toward the fringe of the Amazon.

WILL WE BE CLIMBING WITH ROPES OR OTHER GEAR?

No. There’s no technical gear needed on Machu Picchu on either of the routes we trek.

WHAT HAPPENS BEFORE AND AFTER THE CLIMB?

Upon arrival, you will be spending one or two nights in Cuzco, resting, adjusting to the time change, and acclimatizing. Many people enjoy the fabulous wealth of history available right outside the door Cuzco, and there is “on your own” time for exploring, doing last minute shopping, and preparing yourself. There are also group events, including a walk around historic sites, and a detailed briefing where you meet your guides and sort out details of gear and logistics.

After completing our trekking routes, you arrive by train at Aguas Calientes and finish with a guided tour of Machu Picchu and transfer back to Cusco for your flight home.DO WE TIP?

Yes we do. In Peru, tips are both greatly appreciated and crucial to the wellbe-ing of guides and lodge staff. While there is no hard and fast rule, and your personal judgement predominates, we

recommend leaving daily tips for lodge staff (in collection boxes) and giving $5-$10 per day per guide staff (and/or camp crew) at the end of your trip. Only tip if you feel your service was worth a tip.

CAN WE LEAVE THINGS AT THE HOTEL WHILE WE CLIMB?

Definitely. Even if you’re not extending your trip, there will be items in your lug-gage you don’t want or need on the trek. Our hotel in Cusco is more than happy to keep an eye on these things for you. We do recommend bringing a second, smaller bag for this purpose.

ABOUT ACCOMMODATIONS

As we are leaving our cultural as well as geographical home, we will stay in accommodations, which might not fit our usual Western standards. Embark chooses places which are safe and secure, and as comfortable as possible within our financial realities as well as the bounds of the places we are visiting. Accordingly, please plan to be flexible and patient, and embrace your away-from-home experience.

ELECTRICITY

Although most of Peru operates with an electrical current of 220v, some of the lodges on our lodge-to-lodge treks are out-fitted with 110v compatible outlets. While many modern devices such as phones, tab-lets, and cameras can handle either, check before you travel. It is rarely necessary to carry a voltage converter. Some Peruvian outlets accept rounded-pin plugs; consider carrying an adaptor.

Obviously, on our tented adventures we will no have access to electricity so solar chargers or additional battery packs are recommended.

LAUNDRY

Laundry service is available in your Cusco hotel, and can be found locally in Aguas Calientes or Cusco.

TRANSPORTATION DURING YOUR TRIP

You will be picked up at the Cusco airport and transferred to your hotel, the starting and ending point of your itinerary. You will deploy to, and return from, your hike in a high-clearance van, with any road


time incorporating stops at archaeological sites, markets, and other superb sites. We prioritize safety and use qualified, experi-enced drivers.

MONEY & MONEY EXCHANGE

The Peruvian sol has been stable at almost three to the US dollar for years. There are numerous ATMs in Cuzco and other towns that will distribute Peruvian curren-cy, often in frustratingly small amounts.

EMERGENCY FUND

We recommend that you bring an emergency fund on the trip, should you not be able to access money or unplanned situation arises. We typically recommend $200 - $300 in US Dollars as an emergency fund.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

There are no security issues in Peru. Pick-pockets and opportunistic thieves are not unknown in Cusco, or busy town markets, but such encounters are increasingly rare. We do suggest taking taxis at night in Cusco.

Responsible Travel In our role as cross-cultural liaisons, we take the issue of cultural sensitivity very seriously. The lens through which we see the world is colored by our history and our own culture; please be aware of this when traveling overseas.

GIFTS

While it may be tempting to give out gifts, especially to children, it is again important to keep things in the proper context. What seems like a small item to us may be quite significant to a local person, and we do not want to create a culture of dependence upon our handouts. If you’d like to make a contribution to a charity doing excellent work in the area, please request more information from Embark.

PHOTOGRAPHS

We have all seen wonderful photographs that include local people, and many of us might wish to re-create these works of art. It is vital, however, to recall that all people in all cultures are entitled to their privacy

and dignity. With this in mind, it is critical that we ask permission before photographing someone, and we must immediately respect a “no,” should it be the answer. Even after we have received permission, we must be respectful of personal space, time, and local custom. Ask your Embark representatives for more specific information.

A COUPLE OF RULES

We will always obey the laws in the countries we visit. This means the possession or consumption of illegal drugs will not be tolerated on Embark trips. In some places, smoking marijuana or opium is legal and a part of the local culture, but neither will be tolerated on our trips.

Anyone violating this policy will be removed from the trip.

DOSSIER DISCLAIMER

The outline itinerary is a guide that the Embark will adhere to. The final itinerary may differ in the order that you visit areas and the places where you stay overnight. We reserve the right to make changes based on weather, road and/or operating conditions imposed by owners of accommodation facilities, etc. All participants must be adequately insured. The pricing is subject to change should you change the dates of your trip. The client must confirm that he or she is in good health, unaware of any reasons why he or she may be unsuited for the expedition or may likely suffer illness or injury during the expedition.

ENGLISH SPANISH

Hello Hola

Good Day Buenos Dias

Thanks Gracias

Please Por Favor

How are you? Como Esta Usted?

I’m fine/good Muy Bieni

What Price? Cuanto Cuesta?

Where Is...? Donde esta...?

I want... Yo Quiero

I like Peru Me Gusta Peru

Goodbye Adios

My Name is … Mi Nombre Es...

Your Name? Tu Nombre?

Words & PhrasesYour guide will speak fluent English, but many of the local people in Peru only know a bit of English and rely on Spanish, the main language of Peru. All staff at tourist establishments speak English. Your support crew will generally speak English. We highly recommend getting to know people along the way using Spanish. It’s a lot of fun to interact with the locals. These are the main words to help enjoy your time.

Also, consider downloading a language learning application to your phone or computer to help you learn some basics (or brush up) ahead of time.


About Embark Exploration Co.Embark is an adventure travel company that offers once-in-a-lifetime adventures for those who want to explore the most remote corners of the planet, navigate the world’s great frontiers, summit some of its highest peaks, trek through the most emote of villages, and interact with locals on a level most tourists only dream of.

Embark specializes in custom adventure travel; each group typically has a unique itinerary, works with us to develop that itinerary, and picks the dates of travel. Occasionally we have pre-planned departure dates the we can fit individuals into.

Embark is always working toward two main priorities: developing trips that are both active and cultural, with an extreme focus on interact-ing with local communities and crossing cultur-al barriers.

WHAT SETS EMBARK APART FROM THE REST

EXPERIENCEWe are a team that lives and breathes travel; we know what our clients want, and as such we see them as travelers, not tourists. We have organized hundreds of adventures around the world, focusing on destinations we know and understand. Ask us for some of our references.

HANDCRAFTED TRIPSMany companies provide region-standard trips; Embark goes above and beyond. We organize unique itineraries along the roads less traveled, designing adventures that allow our travelers to be pioneers and explore the depth of any given destination.

LEADERSHIPWe focus on finding and training the best guides in the industry, with specialists who are prominent in several fields – mountain guides, historians, archaeologists, cultural anthropologists, and much more.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITYFirst and foremost, we believe in paying fair wages and supporting the people and the environments where we travel. We believe in the places we travel, and invest money back into these communities by supporting local non-governmental organizations.

Embark is not just a company – it is a philosophy.

CONTACT INFOEmbark Exploration Co.https://embarkexplorationco.com/

PHONE503-922-1050

MAILING ADDRESS1327 SE Tacoma Street #273 Portland, OR 97202

FEEDBACKAfter your trip ends, we will follow up with you to determine what you enjoyed about the trip and how we can make it better. Embark is eager to build better adventures around the world through your advice and insight.

Documents

Trek Preparation MACHU PICCHU - Embark Exploration Co.€¦ · Trek Preparation MACHU PICCHU Congratulations! You are about to embark on the journey of a lifetime, and we at Embark