# Best 3 weeks in May
Jan 23rd, 2019, 07:25 AM
#1
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# Best 3 weeks in May
Hi everyone,
I've done it and booked return Flights for 3 weeks in May! Haha, must make sure I get fit (no problem as I love it must just make time)! Please, I need all the help I can get. I am sure with your help (information), I will get it done and have a great time & Adventure! We depart from South Africa on Friday 10/05/2019 - stop over Sao Paulo (less than 2 hours) before take off to Lima and arrive Lima 11/05 00:40!
I've booked a Salkantay trek 8days/7nights from 13/05 - 20/05 through TreXperience. They will pick us up at the airport on 13th, taking us to a hotel in Cusco where we will spend 2 nights (taking us around) and on day 3 they will pick us up for the Salkantay Inca trail. So we will return on 20th.
This leaves us with 11 days before our departure flight back to South Africa on 01/06/2019.
I want to visit the AMAZON jungle! who knows if I would ever get the chance again.
What do you suggest we do? We are on a budget and earn ZAR, not $ or Euros remember. BUT we cannot miss out on anything! 7-9 days Amazon? I would rather experience amazing adventures than browsing museums. If I had the time it would be another story.
More Questions:
a). Any comments on TreXperience?
b). We arive in Lima 00:40 on Saturday 11/05, would you suggest we spend the night in Lima? Or take a flight the same day to .......... ?
c). 12/05 Sunday.?. ..
d). Arrive back from our trek on 20th (don't know what time exactly)...
e). .... any suggestions for the next 11 days ..... ?
f). Our flight back to South Africa departs from Lima on 01/06/2019 at 01/06/2019 at 09:15 for Sao Paulo - for South Africa.
g). The best - once in a lifetime Amazon experience ..... (don't have to be luxurious) - trails for 7-9 days is fine, camping is fine - whichever give us the Best of the Best!?
h). Vaccination requirements?
i). Visa's for South Africans?
.
Can't wait to get feedback from you.
Much appreciated guys/girls.
I've done it and booked return Flights for 3 weeks in May! Haha, must make sure I get fit (no problem as I love it must just make time)! Please, I need all the help I can get. I am sure with your help (information), I will get it done and have a great time & Adventure! We depart from South Africa on Friday 10/05/2019 - stop over Sao Paulo (less than 2 hours) before take off to Lima and arrive Lima 11/05 00:40!
I've booked a Salkantay trek 8days/7nights from 13/05 - 20/05 through TreXperience. They will pick us up at the airport on 13th, taking us to a hotel in Cusco where we will spend 2 nights (taking us around) and on day 3 they will pick us up for the Salkantay Inca trail. So we will return on 20th.
This leaves us with 11 days before our departure flight back to South Africa on 01/06/2019.
I want to visit the AMAZON jungle! who knows if I would ever get the chance again.
What do you suggest we do? We are on a budget and earn ZAR, not $ or Euros remember. BUT we cannot miss out on anything! 7-9 days Amazon? I would rather experience amazing adventures than browsing museums. If I had the time it would be another story.
More Questions:
a). Any comments on TreXperience?
b). We arive in Lima 00:40 on Saturday 11/05, would you suggest we spend the night in Lima? Or take a flight the same day to .......... ?
c). 12/05 Sunday.?. ..
d). Arrive back from our trek on 20th (don't know what time exactly)...
e). .... any suggestions for the next 11 days ..... ?
f). Our flight back to South Africa departs from Lima on 01/06/2019 at 01/06/2019 at 09:15 for Sao Paulo - for South Africa.
g). The best - once in a lifetime Amazon experience ..... (don't have to be luxurious) - trails for 7-9 days is fine, camping is fine - whichever give us the Best of the Best!?
h). Vaccination requirements?
i). Visa's for South Africans?
.
Can't wait to get feedback from you.
Much appreciated guys/girls.
Jan 23rd, 2019, 10:40 AM
#2
Congratulations, I know you'll love Peru.
More Questions:
a). Any comments on TreXperience? Sorry, no.
b). We arive in Lima 00:40 on Saturday 11/05, would you suggest we spend the night in Lima? Or take a flight the same day to .......... ?
There are early am flights to Cusco, but I'd consider booking into a homestay near the airport to try to get a few hours. I've used this one. Your arrival time in Lima is busy, it could take a good hour or more to get through airport formalities and transfer to a hotel, and then hard to get to sleep. There is also a hotel at the airport but it's expensive.
https://lima1night.com/ Note Miriam and Enrique (Kike) don't really speak English, but if their daughter is there, she does. Should be lots of reviews around on TA and the booking websites. Lovely people. Good for a shower and to shut eyes a bit. Warning..neighbors used to have a rooster!
..Just a spot to sleep not walk around.. they are also on all the booking websites now.. Price should include the transfers/meet and greet and breakfast.
c). 12/05 Sunday.?. ..
d). Arrive back from our trek on 20th (don't know what time exactly)...
Will you have visited the various Sacred Valley & Cusco spots already?
I know you've said "Amazon" but have you considered visiting "the jungle" nearer to Cusco rather than returning to Lima and flying to Iquitos. There are people on tripadvisor that can tell you how to do that.
e). .... any suggestions for the next 11 days ..... ?
May can be a high water month up around Iquitos.. My one visit I stayed at lodge up a tributary to the river and we traveled by motor launch on the Amazon to reach it. You can only travel on the Amazon in the morning, so for example a 4 day stay really isn't enough since the last day isn't a full day. It can be very hot and humid, or you get lucky and a cold front comes through which also brings rain. Probably I would set aside a week for the Amazon and a few days for Lima afterwards.
Be sure to spend several days in Lima (my suggestion is always 3B Barranco for lodging) X
f). Our flight back to South Africa departs from Lima on 01/06/2019 at 01/06/2019 at 09:15 for Sao Paulo - for South Africa.
You'l lwant to be in Lima on the 5th and leave for the airport around 6:15 am..more or less.
g). The best - once in a lifetime Amazon experience ..... (don't have to be luxurious) - trails for 7-9 days is fine, camping is fine - whichever give us the Best of the Best!?
Although not on the Amazon River, there is the Refugio Amazonas in Tambopata..ask this on tripadvisor, there is/was an expert there. On the Amazon Amazon I'd probably check Explorama. I stayed at Tahuayo..you can check that one but be aware that they tend to inflate their tripadvisor ratings (most likely soliciting lots of Excellents to drown out anything less than that). (So be sure to search on the ones at less than Excellent). In May it can be flooded.. like halfway or more so may not be much hiking and most viewing would be from canoes. High water does get you closer to the canopy, though. Be sure to ask what is possible to do in May if there is a lot of flooding.
h). Vaccination requirements?
Probably Yellow Fever, Typhoid and maybe malaria tablets for Amazon. Nothing really needed for the Andes..other than don't drink the water (applies to most places in Peru if they don't specify that it's bottled or purified) also wear insect repellent at Machu Picchu. For the jungle I really like a net hat! It's too hot to wear a regular hat when hiking and those mosquitos are annoying.
i). Visa's for South Africans?
Sorry don't know. But a lot of websites out there that can answer that question.
More Questions:
a). Any comments on TreXperience? Sorry, no.
b). We arive in Lima 00:40 on Saturday 11/05, would you suggest we spend the night in Lima? Or take a flight the same day to .......... ?
There are early am flights to Cusco, but I'd consider booking into a homestay near the airport to try to get a few hours. I've used this one. Your arrival time in Lima is busy, it could take a good hour or more to get through airport formalities and transfer to a hotel, and then hard to get to sleep. There is also a hotel at the airport but it's expensive.
https://lima1night.com/ Note Miriam and Enrique (Kike) don't really speak English, but if their daughter is there, she does. Should be lots of reviews around on TA and the booking websites. Lovely people. Good for a shower and to shut eyes a bit. Warning..neighbors used to have a rooster!
..Just a spot to sleep not walk around.. they are also on all the booking websites now.. Price should include the transfers/meet and greet and breakfast.
c). 12/05 Sunday.?. ..
d). Arrive back from our trek on 20th (don't know what time exactly)...
Will you have visited the various Sacred Valley & Cusco spots already?
I know you've said "Amazon" but have you considered visiting "the jungle" nearer to Cusco rather than returning to Lima and flying to Iquitos. There are people on tripadvisor that can tell you how to do that.
e). .... any suggestions for the next 11 days ..... ?
May can be a high water month up around Iquitos.. My one visit I stayed at lodge up a tributary to the river and we traveled by motor launch on the Amazon to reach it. You can only travel on the Amazon in the morning, so for example a 4 day stay really isn't enough since the last day isn't a full day. It can be very hot and humid, or you get lucky and a cold front comes through which also brings rain. Probably I would set aside a week for the Amazon and a few days for Lima afterwards.
Be sure to spend several days in Lima (my suggestion is always 3B Barranco for lodging) X
f). Our flight back to South Africa departs from Lima on 01/06/2019 at 01/06/2019 at 09:15 for Sao Paulo - for South Africa.
You'l lwant to be in Lima on the 5th and leave for the airport around 6:15 am..more or less.
g). The best - once in a lifetime Amazon experience ..... (don't have to be luxurious) - trails for 7-9 days is fine, camping is fine - whichever give us the Best of the Best!?
Although not on the Amazon River, there is the Refugio Amazonas in Tambopata..ask this on tripadvisor, there is/was an expert there. On the Amazon Amazon I'd probably check Explorama. I stayed at Tahuayo..you can check that one but be aware that they tend to inflate their tripadvisor ratings (most likely soliciting lots of Excellents to drown out anything less than that). (So be sure to search on the ones at less than Excellent). In May it can be flooded.. like halfway or more so may not be much hiking and most viewing would be from canoes. High water does get you closer to the canopy, though. Be sure to ask what is possible to do in May if there is a lot of flooding.
h). Vaccination requirements?
Probably Yellow Fever, Typhoid and maybe malaria tablets for Amazon. Nothing really needed for the Andes..other than don't drink the water (applies to most places in Peru if they don't specify that it's bottled or purified) also wear insect repellent at Machu Picchu. For the jungle I really like a net hat! It's too hot to wear a regular hat when hiking and those mosquitos are annoying.
i). Visa's for South Africans?
Sorry don't know. But a lot of websites out there that can answer that question.
Last edited by mlgb; Jan 23rd, 2019 at 11:35 AM.
Jan 23rd, 2019, 10:43 AM
#3
c) Forgot to say Transfer to Cusco on the 5th. Since you'll be trekking, I'd use that day to rest in the morning, take a day trip to Pisac (not far from Cusco) and return to Cusco for another night to acclimatize. Don't have a big evening meal or drink alcohol at altitude.. issues most often arise at night. My typical evening meal when I first arrive at altitude is a cheese sandwich and/or a quinoa soup.
Drink about 2L of water over 24hrs to help with hydration and acclimatization..I'd recommend buying a 2L bottle and filling that each morning. Many lodgings offer carboys for refills but not all do.
Assume you know about Diamox for altitude. I usually can get by with just some Advil for headache and gradual adjustment but you may not have enough time for that. Even so don't expect to do much your first day. Remember sunglasses, hats, sunscreen and don't forget adapters for your electronics. The US type will work most places although a very few have the small round pins maybe only a handful in over 10 years of visits. You may want proper raingear for your trek but I found that for the Amazon a cheap plastic poncho works better so you can rip it on and off easily.. You can withdraw local currency from ATMs in Cusco city or at the airport...
Drink about 2L of water over 24hrs to help with hydration and acclimatization..I'd recommend buying a 2L bottle and filling that each morning. Many lodgings offer carboys for refills but not all do.
Assume you know about Diamox for altitude. I usually can get by with just some Advil for headache and gradual adjustment but you may not have enough time for that. Even so don't expect to do much your first day. Remember sunglasses, hats, sunscreen and don't forget adapters for your electronics. The US type will work most places although a very few have the small round pins maybe only a handful in over 10 years of visits. You may want proper raingear for your trek but I found that for the Amazon a cheap plastic poncho works better so you can rip it on and off easily.. You can withdraw local currency from ATMs in Cusco city or at the airport...
Last edited by mlgb; Jan 23rd, 2019 at 11:30 AM.
Jan 23rd, 2019, 12:00 PM
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Hi,
Thank you for all the valuable info, I appreciate it. Will do that and spend the night at the place you've recommended.
As you suggested, take a flight the 12th May to Cusco, take a day trip to Pisac and return to Cusco for another night to acclimatize.
Yes I've read about Diamox. Yes will check out re: Visa's (I thought maybe someone from SA might read my Question). Have never seen a net hat but it make sense and I will check on Amazon or outdoor shop. thanks for other advice.
d). To answer your question, see day 1 and 2 below. TreXperience already arranged accommodation (included in the 8day/7night Salkantay trek) for the Monday- and Tuesday evening. their program before the trek is as follows:
Day 1 - CUSCO: Upon arrival at the airport of Cusco, you will be welcomed by our representative, who will drive you to your hotel in Cusco. We will explore the amazing and historical city of Cusco, which was the capital of the great Inca Empire and surrounded by the beautiful Andes Mountains. In the Afternoon you will begin your tour by visiting the Plaza de Armas-Main Square. We will continue our tour by exploring the Cathedral and admire its exquisite vestibules and priceless paintings from the Cusco School of the 17th and 18th centuries. Just a few blocks away you will visit the famous 12 angle stone and Loreto Street, nearby you will visit the Qoricancha or Temple of the Sun in Incas time, whose interior walls were said to have been covered in gold. As you return to the lower part of the city, you will stop off at the San Pedro Market, where you will be delighted by the variety of unique and traditional local products and discover new aromas and tastes. Duration: Half day Meals: Breakfast at Hotel Accommodation: Hotel***
Day 2 - SACRED VALLEY
Today you will experience a guided excursion to the enigmatic Sacred Valley of the Incas, we will start at 08:00 a.m. and while driving you to Pisaq passing through the animal sanctuary of Cotahuasi where we can see Pumas, Condors, Llamas, Alpacas, Vicuñas and Guanacos. It’s then another 30 minutes driving to Pisaq, where we visit the archeological site and the local market. After seeing and visiting the handicraft market we will continue our journey passing the Sacred Valley until we arrive at Ollantaytambo – “The Last Living Inca Town” an old Inca fortified village where we will observe some of the best examples of Inca architecture in the region than on your return we will arrive in the unique Archeological site of Moray, where we will learn about the ancient Inca farming technology then we will return to your hotel in Cusco. Duration: Full day Meals: Breakfast at Hotel Accommodation: Hotel***
AMAZON / THE JUNGLE
I haven't done my homework about the Amazon and Jungle yet and will consider "the Jungle" and other options you've mentioned. Thanks for the information.
LIMA
How many days would you suggest for Lima (end of the trip)?
Will revert back, thanks again
Thank you for all the valuable info, I appreciate it. Will do that and spend the night at the place you've recommended.
As you suggested, take a flight the 12th May to Cusco, take a day trip to Pisac and return to Cusco for another night to acclimatize.
Yes I've read about Diamox. Yes will check out re: Visa's (I thought maybe someone from SA might read my Question). Have never seen a net hat but it make sense and I will check on Amazon or outdoor shop. thanks for other advice.
d). To answer your question, see day 1 and 2 below. TreXperience already arranged accommodation (included in the 8day/7night Salkantay trek) for the Monday- and Tuesday evening. their program before the trek is as follows:
Day 1 - CUSCO: Upon arrival at the airport of Cusco, you will be welcomed by our representative, who will drive you to your hotel in Cusco. We will explore the amazing and historical city of Cusco, which was the capital of the great Inca Empire and surrounded by the beautiful Andes Mountains. In the Afternoon you will begin your tour by visiting the Plaza de Armas-Main Square. We will continue our tour by exploring the Cathedral and admire its exquisite vestibules and priceless paintings from the Cusco School of the 17th and 18th centuries. Just a few blocks away you will visit the famous 12 angle stone and Loreto Street, nearby you will visit the Qoricancha or Temple of the Sun in Incas time, whose interior walls were said to have been covered in gold. As you return to the lower part of the city, you will stop off at the San Pedro Market, where you will be delighted by the variety of unique and traditional local products and discover new aromas and tastes. Duration: Half day Meals: Breakfast at Hotel Accommodation: Hotel***
Day 2 - SACRED VALLEY
Today you will experience a guided excursion to the enigmatic Sacred Valley of the Incas, we will start at 08:00 a.m. and while driving you to Pisaq passing through the animal sanctuary of Cotahuasi where we can see Pumas, Condors, Llamas, Alpacas, Vicuñas and Guanacos. It’s then another 30 minutes driving to Pisaq, where we visit the archeological site and the local market. After seeing and visiting the handicraft market we will continue our journey passing the Sacred Valley until we arrive at Ollantaytambo – “The Last Living Inca Town” an old Inca fortified village where we will observe some of the best examples of Inca architecture in the region than on your return we will arrive in the unique Archeological site of Moray, where we will learn about the ancient Inca farming technology then we will return to your hotel in Cusco. Duration: Full day Meals: Breakfast at Hotel Accommodation: Hotel***
AMAZON / THE JUNGLE
I haven't done my homework about the Amazon and Jungle yet and will consider "the Jungle" and other options you've mentioned. Thanks for the information.
LIMA
How many days would you suggest for Lima (end of the trip)?
Will revert back, thanks again
Jan 23rd, 2019, 12:33 PM
#5
Your tour for Cusco and SV sounds like it captures the highlights Most hotels in Cusco will allow an early checkin so be sure to use that time for resting a bit. Probably worth asking the tour company to book you an extra night at the same hotel so you don't have to switch.
On the 12th Pisac Sunday is a special market day.. If possible try to get to the chapel by around 10:30 to watch for locals arriving for the 11am Quechua Mass If you miss it, after the mass there will be a procession. Ask a shopkeeper (more likely to speak Spanish) for the Alcaldes (Mayors). The locals at Pisac are used to tourists so are less likely to object to photos but it's polite to ask especially it they're older. Some of them will ask for a coin so have a pocketful if you're likely to take photos.
IIRC someone recently reported that Ulrike's in Pisac is still open..they have a rooftop that 's a great spot for a meal and rest.
Another site that might be interesting rather than Pisac is the Salineras near Moray.. it might be worth getting a private day tour to visit the Salineras, Chinchero and the Chicha place near Maras.
Trying to find the latter I stumbled on this post from Dec 2017..the lady in the photo is where I visited so she's been at it for some time! At the time I went I think it was called Descanso Bar and a lot of tourists went there. Possibly taxidatum.com can also book this for you although their drivers don't all speak English and there are many tour guides, some recommended by others on Fodors.
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attracti...7&ff=292597988
RE Lima..I absolutely love that city, although I speak a little Spanish and kind of "blend in". For a first time visitor, recommend a full day for Barranco and a day to go downtown to the Plaza area. If you like museums, and even if you don't, spend at least a half day to visit the Larco and perhaps a few more hours for the Amano, my favorite of all Lima museums ( I recommend the special tour). The website Lima Easy although not up to date also describes some of the other Lima sights. Be sure to factor in fairly early closing times and allow an hour to go anywhere! I do like to use the Metropolitano to get downtown. If you stay at 3B the lovely staff will probably have a tap card you can borrow and explain how to use it. I escorted two older ladies down there myself using the Metropolitano and told them to ask someone to arrange a taxi if they weren't comfortable coming back that way, but they loved it and took it by themselves to get back to the lodging. I have not yet used any taxi aps in LIma but even so the Metropolitano is faster than a car most of the time. A lot of visitors also go to the Larcomar Mall but to me it's just a mall with a view! Still worth having a stroll on the Malecon.. but the ocean in Lima is cold and I generally don't spend any time at the beach there.
http://eng.museoamano.org/.
On the 12th Pisac Sunday is a special market day.. If possible try to get to the chapel by around 10:30 to watch for locals arriving for the 11am Quechua Mass If you miss it, after the mass there will be a procession. Ask a shopkeeper (more likely to speak Spanish) for the Alcaldes (Mayors). The locals at Pisac are used to tourists so are less likely to object to photos but it's polite to ask especially it they're older. Some of them will ask for a coin so have a pocketful if you're likely to take photos.
IIRC someone recently reported that Ulrike's in Pisac is still open..they have a rooftop that 's a great spot for a meal and rest.
Another site that might be interesting rather than Pisac is the Salineras near Moray.. it might be worth getting a private day tour to visit the Salineras, Chinchero and the Chicha place near Maras.
Trying to find the latter I stumbled on this post from Dec 2017..the lady in the photo is where I visited so she's been at it for some time! At the time I went I think it was called Descanso Bar and a lot of tourists went there. Possibly taxidatum.com can also book this for you although their drivers don't all speak English and there are many tour guides, some recommended by others on Fodors.
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attracti...7&ff=292597988
RE Lima..I absolutely love that city, although I speak a little Spanish and kind of "blend in". For a first time visitor, recommend a full day for Barranco and a day to go downtown to the Plaza area. If you like museums, and even if you don't, spend at least a half day to visit the Larco and perhaps a few more hours for the Amano, my favorite of all Lima museums ( I recommend the special tour). The website Lima Easy although not up to date also describes some of the other Lima sights. Be sure to factor in fairly early closing times and allow an hour to go anywhere! I do like to use the Metropolitano to get downtown. If you stay at 3B the lovely staff will probably have a tap card you can borrow and explain how to use it. I escorted two older ladies down there myself using the Metropolitano and told them to ask someone to arrange a taxi if they weren't comfortable coming back that way, but they loved it and took it by themselves to get back to the lodging. I have not yet used any taxi aps in LIma but even so the Metropolitano is faster than a car most of the time. A lot of visitors also go to the Larcomar Mall but to me it's just a mall with a view! Still worth having a stroll on the Malecon.. but the ocean in Lima is cold and I generally don't spend any time at the beach there.
http://eng.museoamano.org/.
Last edited by mlgb; Jan 23rd, 2019 at 01:18 PM.
Jan 23rd, 2019, 07:01 PM
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For vaccination information, consult the cdc website:
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destina...eler/none/peru
and then consult your physician or a travel physician / infectious disease expert.
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destina...eler/none/peru
and then consult your physician or a travel physician / infectious disease expert.
Jan 24th, 2019, 12:10 AM
#7
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Hi, I've checked out some of the places and it is whow! 3 weeks are too short but I assume better than nothing 
I can't wait to read more about all the places and will revert back for more advice. Thanks again.
I can't wait to read more about all the places and will revert back for more advice. Thanks again.
Jan 24th, 2019, 12:26 AM
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South Africans don’t need a visa for Peru. 90 days is grant sped on arrival.
Re Diamox - we have done several high altitude treks in Peru and elsewhere. With and without Diamox. Even though trek operators insist on a couple of days in Cusco before a trek, IME it is not enough. I would definitely consult your GP re Diamox and take it according to instructions. Basically a day or two before altitude and a few days after. It made th world of difference when we went direct from Lima to trek in the Cordillera Blanca at altitudes of up to 4800m.
For the sights in the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo and Pisac Etc., I covered these places in the Peru section of our blog at https://accidentalnomads.com/category/peru/
Also, here is a link to my packing list which may be helpful https://accidentalnomads.com/2016/05...ck-like-a-man/ . My wife’s list is linked at the bottom of that post.
The U.K. NHS website has details on vaccinations needed for Peru as well as useful stuff on altitude @ https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/dest...ntarctica/peru
Re Diamox - we have done several high altitude treks in Peru and elsewhere. With and without Diamox. Even though trek operators insist on a couple of days in Cusco before a trek, IME it is not enough. I would definitely consult your GP re Diamox and take it according to instructions. Basically a day or two before altitude and a few days after. It made th world of difference when we went direct from Lima to trek in the Cordillera Blanca at altitudes of up to 4800m.
For the sights in the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo and Pisac Etc., I covered these places in the Peru section of our blog at https://accidentalnomads.com/category/peru/
Also, here is a link to my packing list which may be helpful https://accidentalnomads.com/2016/05...ck-like-a-man/ . My wife’s list is linked at the bottom of that post.
The U.K. NHS website has details on vaccinations needed for Peru as well as useful stuff on altitude @ https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/dest...ntarctica/peru
Jan 24th, 2019, 09:48 AM
#10
RE Yellow Fever..Most likely you've already had that jab, and they're now considered good for life. However, at least in the US the vaccine is currently difficult to come by and most likely needed due to the ongoing active outbreak in Brazil, Peru having recent rare cases from various parts of the "Jungle".. So good to get a head start on that one if you haven't already it.
Jan 26th, 2019, 12:31 AM
#12
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Crellston, your advice, 'Stay your first night (it is the sleeping altitude that is the key issue) in either Ollantaytambo or Urubamba.' Re: our Itinerary, would you suggest we rather travel to Ollantaytambo for 2 nights before going to Cusco from where our tour will start? If so, what will be best to travel to Ollantaytambo as I cannot find info on flights (no airport)?
Jan 26th, 2019, 03:11 PM
#15
You will be able to take a taxi from Cusco to the Sacred Valley. A recommended company that you will see mentioned is taxidatum.com
You can make your reservations online but pay in cash after service (fares can be quoted in USD or local currency)
Also many hotels will also arrange for you to be picked up from the Cusco airport.
You can make your reservations online but pay in cash after service (fares can be quoted in USD or local currency)
Also many hotels will also arrange for you to be picked up from the Cusco airport.
Jan 30th, 2019, 09:05 AM
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Hi everyone, Ok I need your input Please!
Our flight arrives in Lima, midnight on 11th May.
Would you suggest we spend the night in Lima and take an early flight to Cusco, directly bus or .... to Ollantaytambo (better for altitude)? and return to Cusco on 13th for our first day (as per tour)? I've read it is better to first go to Ollantaytambo? I just need your input, please. It seems like there are no flights from Lima to Ollantaytambo, therefore, a person must first go to Cusco? any other recommendations? I would appreciate your input as you know the areas better than me. No one answered me on this one yet?
Arrive at midnight 11 May at 00:40 - sleepover, LIMA
12th May (any suggestions? take a flight to Cusco and directly go to Ollantaytambo (spend the night there - also good for acclimatization)?
13th May: Back to Cusco and meet with TreXperience for start of our TOUR/TREK-
Day 1 - CUSCO: Upon arrival at the airport of Cusco, you will be welcomed by our representative, who will drive you to your hotel in Cusco. We will explore the amazing and historical city of Cusco, which was the capital of the great Inca Empire and surrounded by the beautiful Andes Mountains. In the Afternoon you will begin your tour by visiting the Plaza de Armas-Main Square. We will continue our tour by exploring the Cathedral and admire its exquisite vestibules and priceless paintings from the Cusco School of the 17th and 18th centuries. Just a few blocks away you will visit the famous 12 angle stone and Loreto Street, nearby you will visit the Qoricancha or Temple of the Sun in Incas time, whose interior walls were said to have been covered in gold. As you return to the lower part of the city, you will stop off at the San Pedro Market, where you will be delighted by the variety of unique and traditional local products and discover new aromas and tastes. Duration: Half day Meals: Breakfast at Hotel Accommodation: Hotel***
Day 2 - SACRED VALLEY
Today you will experience a guided excursion to the enigmatic Sacred Valley of the Incas, we will start at 08:00 a.m. and while driving you to Pisaq passing through the animal sanctuary of Cotahuasi where we can see Pumas, Condors, Llamas, Alpacas, Vicuñas and Guanacos. It’s then another 30 minutes driving to Pisaq, where we visit the archeological site and the local market. After seeing and visiting the handicraft market we will continue our journey passing the Sacred Valley until we arrive at Ollantaytambo – “The Last Living Inca Town” an old Inca fortified village where we will observe some of the best examples of Inca architecture in the region than on your return we will arrive in the unique Archeological site of Moray, where we will learn about the ancient Inca farming technology then we will return to your hotel in Cusco. Duration: Full day Meals: Breakfast at Hotel Accommodation: Hotel***
Day 3 - end 19th, overnight hotel in Cusco and depart 20th.
20th May: Ok we're left with 12 nights:-
This leaves us with 12 nights ( 20-31 May). before our flight back to South Africa from Lima on 1 June.
Rainbow mountain? I want to go to Amazon! Iquitos - Otorongo expeditions offer fantastic few days inc own guide but very very expensive for us with ZAR!! Puerto Maldonado much lower rates BUT we have to pay for excursions (or can you see or experience a lot, without booking any excursions)? Will it at the end work out the same? Which one is Ultimate? This is important to know!!
I was thinking 7 days Amazon/Jungle (no need for luxury! please we want to experience the jungle)! hope you know what I mean.
If 7 days then that leaves us with 5 nights - What would you do?
Should we spend 3 nights in Lima, it gives us 2 days elsewhere?
Should we spend it in Cusco? OR before the Amazon/jungle trip? OR thereafter? Please, I need your input.
Thanks in advance
regards, Mimmie
Our flight arrives in Lima, midnight on 11th May.
Would you suggest we spend the night in Lima and take an early flight to Cusco, directly bus or .... to Ollantaytambo (better for altitude)? and return to Cusco on 13th for our first day (as per tour)? I've read it is better to first go to Ollantaytambo? I just need your input, please. It seems like there are no flights from Lima to Ollantaytambo, therefore, a person must first go to Cusco? any other recommendations? I would appreciate your input as you know the areas better than me. No one answered me on this one yet?
Arrive at midnight 11 May at 00:40 - sleepover, LIMA
12th May (any suggestions? take a flight to Cusco and directly go to Ollantaytambo (spend the night there - also good for acclimatization)?
13th May: Back to Cusco and meet with TreXperience for start of our TOUR/TREK-
Day 1 - CUSCO: Upon arrival at the airport of Cusco, you will be welcomed by our representative, who will drive you to your hotel in Cusco. We will explore the amazing and historical city of Cusco, which was the capital of the great Inca Empire and surrounded by the beautiful Andes Mountains. In the Afternoon you will begin your tour by visiting the Plaza de Armas-Main Square. We will continue our tour by exploring the Cathedral and admire its exquisite vestibules and priceless paintings from the Cusco School of the 17th and 18th centuries. Just a few blocks away you will visit the famous 12 angle stone and Loreto Street, nearby you will visit the Qoricancha or Temple of the Sun in Incas time, whose interior walls were said to have been covered in gold. As you return to the lower part of the city, you will stop off at the San Pedro Market, where you will be delighted by the variety of unique and traditional local products and discover new aromas and tastes. Duration: Half day Meals: Breakfast at Hotel Accommodation: Hotel***
Day 2 - SACRED VALLEY
Today you will experience a guided excursion to the enigmatic Sacred Valley of the Incas, we will start at 08:00 a.m. and while driving you to Pisaq passing through the animal sanctuary of Cotahuasi where we can see Pumas, Condors, Llamas, Alpacas, Vicuñas and Guanacos. It’s then another 30 minutes driving to Pisaq, where we visit the archeological site and the local market. After seeing and visiting the handicraft market we will continue our journey passing the Sacred Valley until we arrive at Ollantaytambo – “The Last Living Inca Town” an old Inca fortified village where we will observe some of the best examples of Inca architecture in the region than on your return we will arrive in the unique Archeological site of Moray, where we will learn about the ancient Inca farming technology then we will return to your hotel in Cusco. Duration: Full day Meals: Breakfast at Hotel Accommodation: Hotel***
Day 3 - end 19th, overnight hotel in Cusco and depart 20th.
20th May: Ok we're left with 12 nights:-
This leaves us with 12 nights ( 20-31 May). before our flight back to South Africa from Lima on 1 June.
Rainbow mountain? I want to go to Amazon! Iquitos - Otorongo expeditions offer fantastic few days inc own guide but very very expensive for us with ZAR!! Puerto Maldonado much lower rates BUT we have to pay for excursions (or can you see or experience a lot, without booking any excursions)? Will it at the end work out the same? Which one is Ultimate? This is important to know!!
I was thinking 7 days Amazon/Jungle (no need for luxury! please we want to experience the jungle)! hope you know what I mean.
If 7 days then that leaves us with 5 nights - What would you do?
Should we spend 3 nights in Lima, it gives us 2 days elsewhere?
Should we spend it in Cusco? OR before the Amazon/jungle trip? OR thereafter? Please, I need your input.
Thanks in advance
regards, Mimmie
Jan 30th, 2019, 09:06 AM
#17
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Join Date: Mar 2013
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Need your input 3 weeks PERU
Hi everyone, Ok I need your input Please!
Our flight arrives in Lima, midnight on 11th May.
Would you suggest we spend the night in Lima and take an early flight to Cusco, directly bus or .... to Ollantaytambo (better for altitude)? and return to Cusco on 13th for our first day (as per tour)? I've read it is better to first go to Ollantaytambo? I just need your input, please. It seems like there are no flights from Lima to Ollantaytambo, therefore, a person must first go to Cusco? any other recommendations? I would appreciate your input as you know the areas better than me. No one answered me on this one yet?
Arrive at midnight 11 May at 00:40 - sleepover, LIMA
12th May (any suggestions? take a flight to Cusco and directly go to Ollantaytambo (spend the night there - also good for acclimatization)?
13th May: Back to Cusco and meet with TreXperience for start of our TOUR/TREK-
Day 1 - CUSCO: Upon arrival at the airport of Cusco, you will be welcomed by our representative, who will drive you to your hotel in Cusco. We will explore the amazing and historical city of Cusco, which was the capital of the great Inca Empire and surrounded by the beautiful Andes Mountains. In the Afternoon you will begin your tour by visiting the Plaza de Armas-Main Square. We will continue our tour by exploring the Cathedral and admire its exquisite vestibules and priceless paintings from the Cusco School of the 17th and 18th centuries. Just a few blocks away you will visit the famous 12 angle stone and Loreto Street, nearby you will visit the Qoricancha or Temple of the Sun in Incas time, whose interior walls were said to have been covered in gold. As you return to the lower part of the city, you will stop off at the San Pedro Market, where you will be delighted by the variety of unique and traditional local products and discover new aromas and tastes. Duration: Half day Meals: Breakfast at Hotel Accommodation: Hotel***
Day 2 - SACRED VALLEY
Today you will experience a guided excursion to the enigmatic Sacred Valley of the Incas, we will start at 08:00 a.m. and while driving you to Pisaq passing through the animal sanctuary of Cotahuasi where we can see Pumas, Condors, Llamas, Alpacas, Vicuñas and Guanacos. It’s then another 30 minutes driving to Pisaq, where we visit the archeological site and the local market. After seeing and visiting the handicraft market we will continue our journey passing the Sacred Valley until we arrive at Ollantaytambo – “The Last Living Inca Town” an old Inca fortified village where we will observe some of the best examples of Inca architecture in the region than on your return we will arrive in the unique Archeological site of Moray, where we will learn about the ancient Inca farming technology then we will return to your hotel in Cusco. Duration: Full day Meals: Breakfast at Hotel Accommodation: Hotel***
Day 3 - end 19th, overnight hotel in Cusco and depart 20th.
20th May: Ok we're left with 12 nights:-
This leaves us with 12 nights ( 20-31 May). before our flight back to South Africa from Lima on 1 June.
Rainbow mountain? I want to go to Amazon! Iquitos - Otorongo expeditions offer fantastic few days inc own guide but very very expensive for us with ZAR!! Puerto Maldonado much lower rates BUT we have to pay for excursions (or can you see or experience a lot, without booking any excursions)? Will it at the end work out the same? Which one is Ultimate? This is important to know!!
I was thinking 7 days Amazon/Jungle (no need for luxury! please we want to experience the jungle)! hope you know what I mean.
If 7 days then that leaves us with 5 nights - What would you do?
Should we spend 3 nights in Lima, it gives us 2 days elsewhere?
Should we spend it in Cusco? OR before the Amazon/jungle trip? OR thereafter? Please, I need your input.
Thanks in advance
regards, Mimmie
Our flight arrives in Lima, midnight on 11th May.
Would you suggest we spend the night in Lima and take an early flight to Cusco, directly bus or .... to Ollantaytambo (better for altitude)? and return to Cusco on 13th for our first day (as per tour)? I've read it is better to first go to Ollantaytambo? I just need your input, please. It seems like there are no flights from Lima to Ollantaytambo, therefore, a person must first go to Cusco? any other recommendations? I would appreciate your input as you know the areas better than me. No one answered me on this one yet?
Arrive at midnight 11 May at 00:40 - sleepover, LIMA
12th May (any suggestions? take a flight to Cusco and directly go to Ollantaytambo (spend the night there - also good for acclimatization)?
13th May: Back to Cusco and meet with TreXperience for start of our TOUR/TREK-
Day 1 - CUSCO: Upon arrival at the airport of Cusco, you will be welcomed by our representative, who will drive you to your hotel in Cusco. We will explore the amazing and historical city of Cusco, which was the capital of the great Inca Empire and surrounded by the beautiful Andes Mountains. In the Afternoon you will begin your tour by visiting the Plaza de Armas-Main Square. We will continue our tour by exploring the Cathedral and admire its exquisite vestibules and priceless paintings from the Cusco School of the 17th and 18th centuries. Just a few blocks away you will visit the famous 12 angle stone and Loreto Street, nearby you will visit the Qoricancha or Temple of the Sun in Incas time, whose interior walls were said to have been covered in gold. As you return to the lower part of the city, you will stop off at the San Pedro Market, where you will be delighted by the variety of unique and traditional local products and discover new aromas and tastes. Duration: Half day Meals: Breakfast at Hotel Accommodation: Hotel***
Day 2 - SACRED VALLEY
Today you will experience a guided excursion to the enigmatic Sacred Valley of the Incas, we will start at 08:00 a.m. and while driving you to Pisaq passing through the animal sanctuary of Cotahuasi where we can see Pumas, Condors, Llamas, Alpacas, Vicuñas and Guanacos. It’s then another 30 minutes driving to Pisaq, where we visit the archeological site and the local market. After seeing and visiting the handicraft market we will continue our journey passing the Sacred Valley until we arrive at Ollantaytambo – “The Last Living Inca Town” an old Inca fortified village where we will observe some of the best examples of Inca architecture in the region than on your return we will arrive in the unique Archeological site of Moray, where we will learn about the ancient Inca farming technology then we will return to your hotel in Cusco. Duration: Full day Meals: Breakfast at Hotel Accommodation: Hotel***
Day 3 - end 19th, overnight hotel in Cusco and depart 20th.
20th May: Ok we're left with 12 nights:-
This leaves us with 12 nights ( 20-31 May). before our flight back to South Africa from Lima on 1 June.
Rainbow mountain? I want to go to Amazon! Iquitos - Otorongo expeditions offer fantastic few days inc own guide but very very expensive for us with ZAR!! Puerto Maldonado much lower rates BUT we have to pay for excursions (or can you see or experience a lot, without booking any excursions)? Will it at the end work out the same? Which one is Ultimate? This is important to know!!
I was thinking 7 days Amazon/Jungle (no need for luxury! please we want to experience the jungle)! hope you know what I mean.
If 7 days then that leaves us with 5 nights - What would you do?
Should we spend 3 nights in Lima, it gives us 2 days elsewhere?
Should we spend it in Cusco? OR before the Amazon/jungle trip? OR thereafter? Please, I need your input.
Thanks in advance
regards, Mimmie
Jan 30th, 2019, 03:49 PM
#20
Join Date: Dec 2006
Posts: 23,116
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Would you suggest we spend the night in Lima and take an early flight to Cusco, directly bus or .... to Ollantaytambo (better for altitude)? and return to Cusco on 13th for our first day (as per tour)? I've read it is better to first go to Ollantaytambo? I just need your input, please. It seems like there are no flights from Lima to Ollantaytambo, therefore, a person must first go to Cusco? any other recommendations? I would appreciate your input as you know the areas better than me. No one answered me on this one yet?
How can we possibly answer that? We can't tell you whether to eat apples or oranges -- it's your trip, you are debating options that are incredibly different, and only you can make a choice.
