All international flights arrive via Lima and you must catch a connecting flight to Cusco. There are daily internal flights to and from Cusco via Lima, Arequipa and small jungle airstrips in the Amazon basin.

Arrival into Cusco:

Fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) anytime before the rendezvous time.We recommend that you arrive at least a day or two before the start of your trip to acclimate to the altitude in Cusco. Tambo del Arriero where we start our trip, is in the heart of the city. You’ll likely run into other wild women there doing the same thing, and you can plan ahead via the private Facebook group you’ll be invited to join a few months before the trip starts.

Group Rendezvous Point:

Date: Day 1
Time: 1:30 p.m.
Location: Tambo del Arriero in Cusco

Notes about Pick-Up

There is a pre-arranged taxi pickup (included) from the airport in Cusco up to 48 hours before the tour start. Look for a driver holding a sign with your name outside of the airport doors. If you arrive prior to 48 hours, please arrange your own transportation to your pre-trip hotel. Taxis are available outside the airport and the cost is approximately $15 – $20 USD from the airport to the city centre, cash only. You can pay in USD or Soles. Those wishing to arrive on their own should meet up at the hotel by 1:30 p.m.. Our city tour begins at 2:00 p.m.

RECOMMENDED PRE-TRIP ACCOMMODATIONS

In Lima:

In Cusco:

Your trip begins at Tambo del Arriero in Cusco. If you come early and wish to stay at the same hotel, let them know you are part of the Wild Women group when booking).

DEPARTURES FROM CUSCO

Airport transfers are included, within 48 hours of the end of the trip, and will be provided in conjunction with your departing flights.

If you are staying on longer, please arrange your own transportation to the airport.

Accommodations are not included on this night, so be sure you book this before the trip if you’re planning to stay longer.

Drop Off Point:

Date: Day 10
Time: In contingency with your departure time
Location: Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)

RECOMMENDED POST-TRIP ACCOMMODATIONS

We recommend staying at the Tambo del Arriero if you are staying in Cusco after the tour.

In Lima:

TRANSPORTATION ARRANGEMENTS

You are responsible for booking your own flights or other transport arrangements to the trip start location. These arrangements and any other independent arrangements that you may make are not a part of the trip booked with Wild Women Expeditions and are entirely at your own risk. Wild Women Expeditions accepts no responsibility, directly or indirectly, for any loss, damage or injury to property or person in connection with such arrangements. Should you require assistance with your travel arrangements, please contact:

Megan and Zale | Now Boarding Travel, Travel Specialists

Email: wildwomen@nowboarding.travel

Note: Now Boarding Travel only provides services of 3-star quality or greater. For budget alternatives, please refer to the Lonely Planet guide for your destination.

Important: For international and remote destinations, there is always the risk of flight delays, baggage delays and flight schedule changes which may cause late arrivals, which may, in return, result in you missing the group tour departure. We encourage you to consider arriving one or two days early, which will help you overcome any jet lag from traveling!

PASSPORTS & VISAS

You are fully responsible for your own visa requirements, permits, and certificates for your trip. It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. It is your responsibility to check with the country's Consulate and your country's travel website such as Canada’s for up-to-date information about traveling internationally.

Passport:

Most countries and airlines recommend passports be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected return to your home country. Before you leave, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Important: A copy of your passport must be emailed to the Wild Women Expeditions office by 130-days pre-trip.

Visa:

Most visitors can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. Check via:

Peru Visa – Application, Requirements – Residents of Canada | VisaHQ

Note: As fees and policies can change, we highly recommend that you contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent.

TIPPING

We work with a small, dedicated crew on our horseback trips in Peru and we come into contact with many local families. Our main guide and crew take care of tipping the local families and restaurants, but you are also welcome to contribute if you wish to.

Note: Tips can be given in USD or Soles.

Our crew uses a point system to fairly distribute tips. They unanimously have chosen for all tips to be gathered together and distributed based on this system. On the morning of Day 10, there is an informal tipping ceremony. Someone in the Wild Women group should take the lead on collecting the tips and present the guides with the tip envelope. The team will make sure each crew member receives their tips.

ACCOMMODATION DETAILS

Rooming Arrangements:

Our trip prices are based on a twin share (minimum two women per room/tent), so we’ll team you up with another solo wild woman to share with if you’re on your own, or of course you can share with your travel partner. No single rooms are available on this adventure.

Potable Water

It is not advised to drink tap the water. Potable water is provided throughout the tour.

If you would like to join Wild Women Expeditions in its commitment to reducing single-use plastic, you can travel prepared with your own water treatment system!

Lifestraw

GRAYL Canada | OnePress™ Global Protection

Travelers Against Plastic | Take the TAP pledge

Water-To-Go

Overnight Arrangements During Your Stay
- Tambo del Arriero

- Local Family Guesthouse in Misminay

- Casa de La Chola - Casa de La Chola
- Las Qolqas Eco Resort
- Patacancha Lodge
- Huacahuasi Refugio

Electrical outlets are available in all accommodations, though in some of the more remote village stays, there will be a limited number of outlets to be shared.

QUICK FACTS ABOUT PERU

Wildlife Viewing Etiquette

One of the greatest attractions to our trips is the wildlife we may encounter while riding, hiking, or in transit along mountain roads and highways. Our guides are well versed in the areas we visit, the habits of the local wildlife, and livestock such as llama, alpaca and vizcacha. Please keep in mind that wildlife is just that, wild, and we cannot guarantee any wildlife sightings.

When we encounter wildlife or livestock, we have some basic rules that must be followed to ensure that the animal is not adversely affected by our presence. The main goal when viewing any wildlife or free-ranging livestock is not to disturb their normal activities. Your guides may instruct you to stay close together as a group when viewing any wildlife and position the group appropriately to minimize any disturbance to the wildlife. Feeding wild animals or free-ranging livestock is strictly forbidden. There are provincial and federal laws that can result in fines and/or jail terms for feeding wildlife. At your pre-trip meeting, your guides will review our approach to wildlife viewing.

Earthquakes

Peru is located in an active seismic zone and is prone to earthquakes. The Cusco region is luckily not prone to strong earthquakes. If you are indoors when an earthquake strikes, make your way to a safe zone. These are usually marked in public buildings with an “S”, which indicate where the structural pillars are located. If you are outside, keep away from buildings and other areas where objects could fall.

Electricity

There are two types of electrical outlets in Peru. One accepts two-pronged plugs with flat, parallel blades, while the other take plugs with two or three round prongs. Many Peruvian electrical outlets are designed to accept both types. Electricity in Peru is 220 Volts and 60 Hertz (cycles per second).

Please note: Electrical outlets are available in all accommodations, though in some of the more remote village stays, there will be a limited number of outlets to be shared.

Time

Peru is on Eastern Standard Time, 5 hours behind GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). Peru does not observe daylight savings time.

Climate & Weather:

Pack in layers! Some days you may experience all four seasons. Check the links below to see what the forecast is for your trip date. On the trail and at some lodges, it will be cold, so pack accordingly.

- Cuzco, Peru Weather
- Weather forecast for Machu Picchu | Local | Peru
Animals and Bugs

Predatory wildlife in the high Andean region consists mainly of local dogs, but also take care not to approach any pigs (who will eat anything that you leave outside, including boots, rucksacks and plastic garbage bags). Biting flies are sometimes seen near the river areas, hotsprings and at Machu Picchu. A good insect repellent, and sting relief are a necessity. On the trail, we will see many alpaca and llama, who may kick or spit. Please adopt frequent hand washing protocols when touching animals, including dogs and horses as they may carry bacteria and parasites that can quickly affect our digestive systems.

MONEY MATTERS

Wild Women Expeditions recommends that each participant should bring enough cash in local currency or available credit/debit funds to cover their meals during travel to and from their destination. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, meals not included in the trip package, shopping, etc., and we also suggest you have access to emergency funds. As we learn in detail about traditional Peruvian textiles, you may wish to purchase textiles directly from the artisans at different points along the trail, in cash (SOL or USD).

Currency Exchange Offices & Banks:

Peru’s official currency is the Nuevo Sol (SOL), divided into 100 cents. There are 5,10,20 and 50 cents coins and S/. 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 banknotes.

Please check online for current exchange rates. Wild Women Expeditions likes XE Currency Converter

We highly suggest you read this article: Where to Exchange Currency Without Paying Huge Fees for more information about this for your trip.

Banking

Peruvian soles are welcome at most shops, restaurants and artisan markets. Exchange offices in the cities change US dollars to soles. There are only a few bureau de change in Lima and Cusco that will exchange currencies other than US dollars. Very old, torn or damaged notes are usually rejected.

In Cusco, you can change your US dollars in the money exchange offices or banks located in the first two blocks of Avenida el Sol and generally, they offer a favorable exchange rate. They previously agree on the daily rate among them so you do not need to negotiate. Avoid money changers on the street, as they may carry counterfeit currency or work with pickpockets.

Banks are open from Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 6:00 PM, and Saturdays until midday. There are street moneychangers on the corners of Avenida el Sol as well as many ATMs.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in Lima, and in some shops in Cusco, but less so outside major cities. In small towns, automated banking machines (ABMs) may not be readily available or may be out of money. It is better to plan ahead and carry Peruvian soles with you in small denominations. ABMs accept international credit and debit cards. Some tourist establishments accept the main credit cards, including Visa, Master Card, Diners and American Express. The use of traveller’s checks may be restricted. Ask the individual establishment if they are accepted. When using a credit card, make sure you are charged the right amount for your purchase. Visa is the most widely accepted card in Peru.

Please note that there might be a difference between the official currency exchange rate in Peru and the exchange rate that the credit card companies charge.

Goods and Services Taxes

A general sales tax (IGV) is added automatically to most consumer bills (19%). Restaurants and hotels add a 10% service fee.

Budgeting

Here is a general guide of what you can expect to pay in Peru for a few common items in Nuevos Soles (S/.)

Set lunches: less than $10 USD; supermarkets have takeout.
Multi-course lunch at mid-range restaurant: $ 13 USD.
Fine restaurant dinner: from $22 USD.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Useful Websites:

GETTING FIT

Please be sure to provide complete, accurate, and up-to-date information about your health & fitness level and keep us updated if there are changes. Wild Women Expeditions trips travel to remote areas where limited or no sophisticated medical facilities exist.

A medical emergency situation is extremely unlikely; however, should it arise we need to be prepared with the necessary information to help you.

Important Note: If you choose not to disclose a condition, infirmity, injury, or ailment herein and are subsequently deemed to be unfit for expedition travel due in whole or in part to such condition, infirmity, injury or ailment, Wild Women Expeditions guides, and partners shall have the right to remove you from the trip with no refund or compensation payable. Any evacuation expenses incurred are payable by the evacuee via their medical travel insurance or personal expense. Generally, our expeditions are intended for travelers in reasonably good health for their safety, along with that of their fellow travelers.

Wild Women Expeditions recommends that in the months leading up to your adventure, you prepare yourself by walking often on various types of terrain and exercising regularly to increase your level of fitness with cardio and/or weight training.

As there are some water-based activities on this itinerary, please notify Wild Women Expeditions if you are a non-swimmer.

Tips:

You don't have to be a professional athlete to enjoy your Wild Women expedition. Not by a long shot! You'll be surprised at what you can achieve with our experienced guides at your side and a little camaraderie.

That said, you’ll definitely enjoy yourself far more if you do some preparation so your body is conditioned and ready to enjoy and make the most of the outdoors.

Here are a few ideas to help you get ready:

Ride!

You will be spending many hours each day with your bum in a saddle, so please ensure you get some riding in before this trip. While this trip is rated “novice (comfortable at walk and trot)”, we do recommend that you have some familiarity with horses, being around them and riding, at least a little bit, to make it a more comfortable and enjoyable adventure.

Work your Core.

Keeping good posture and balance on a horse requires a strong core, especially when going up and down steep trails. Doing pilates, or a balanced (focused on strength as well as flexibility) yoga program, can be a great way to prepare for this trip.

Take every opportunity you can to be active.

You can improve your fitness a lot just by adopting some new habits; take the stairs at work, go for a walk at lunchtime, park your car away from work and walk. Aim for 30 minutes a day and keep a diary so you can look back on it and feel proud. These may sound trivial but they’re all building blocks!

Join a local walking or running group.

This is a great way to get fit and you’ll also see new places, meet great people… and make them all jealous when they find out what you’re about to go on your travels.

Warm up, cool down and stretch.

If you’re doing a workout then make sure you start and finish gently and stretch any tight muscles – this will help you avoid any aches, pains and pulled muscles. If you’re a member of a gym try some yoga, tai chi or pilates classes to build up your flexibility, stability and balance.

Hydration.

When you suddenly ask your body to walk or be active, it needs a bit more fuel than it needs when, say, sitting at a desk all day! The main thing your body needs is water, so stay hydrated and practice sipping water often. Getting a water bottle or hydration bladder is a great way to make sure you have it on hand at all times. Make a habit out of taking a bottle of water with you wherever you go.

Nutrition.

Eating little and often will keep your body well fuelled for outdoor exercise, especially food like nuts, dried fruit and bread. The odd bit of chocolate and a few boiled lollies are good for keeping your blood sugar levels up while you’re hiking as well!

Have fun!

The most important point of all! You are about to embark on the trip of a lifetime. You’re going to meet some amazing people, see some wonderful places and create memories that will stay with you for life. The more prepared you are to tackle the various challenges, the more fun you will have. Also, with all the endorphins you create from all this training, you’ll be smiling from ear to ear! It’s a great way to boost your happy vibes.

More information on getting fit!

Check out our blog, Getting Fit: For a Horseback Riding Trip, which includes a 20 minute workout video specifically aimed at preparing the muscles you’ll need for riding.

GENERAL FAQ'S

For general Wild Women Expeditions FAQs please click [HERE].