Orientation
The morning after your arrival the tour will start with an introductory meeting where your tour leader will explain everything that you need to know for the coming weeks. You’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions and discuss the itinerary in detail.
In the afternoon there’ll be a short city tour of historic central Lima led by your tour leader to introduce you properly to the city (sights include the central plazas, architecture, catacombs).
Accommodation and Meals
In major towns
The accommodation throughout the Expedition varies according to the different parts of the programme. Most of the time you will stay in hostels or hostel-standard accommodation. The group will share dorm-style rooms, in most cases divided into males and females. All travellers need to be aware that you may need to share a room with people of the opposite sex. Meals are all included in the price and will be provided by a variety of means. They will usually be fairly simple, based on typical local products. Please let Real Gap know any special dietary requirements that you have prior to departure
Alternative Inca Trail
On the Trail there are three nights camping at sites on different stages of the trek and the fourth night is spent at a hostel. The sites are very basic with little to offer in terms of bathroom facilities. It is strongly advised that you bring your own cleansing wipes and a change of clothes. Always remember, the trail is a genuine trek and does not have Western comforts.
All of the camping and cooking equipment will be carried by local porters or “Cargadores.” They will trek ahead of the group to each campsite or stopping point to prepare your meals and set up the communal tents. You will need to carry your own day-pack, containing your sleeping bag, mat, change of clothes, personal possessions etc. On arrival into each site you will need to set up your tent.
Meals
All of your meals are prepared by the group’s chef. The meals will be fairly basic as there are no ways to keep food fresh after a couple of days. Meals will include:
- Chicken
- Pasta and rice based dishes
- Eggs
- Sandwiches
- Fruit and basic vegetables
- Fish and meat
It is advisable for you to carry snacks/energy sweets for the journey. It is also important for you to bring your own water bottle and water purification tablets, so you can use the water from the sites on the way.
Home-stay
The family home-stay in Chinchero with the Quechua Indians involves a few nights in very basic conditions.
Free Time
Throughout the duration of the expedition you will have regular periods of free time to fill as you wish. We encourage you to make the most of your time in Peru and explore each location as much as possible, soaking up the atmosphere and immersing yourself into the unique culture of this amazing country. Rest and relaxation is also encouraged, as you will need all your energy for the packed itinerary.
At each stage of the trip, programme staff will have full details of attractions and activities worth checking out, and will always be happy to help you arrange these.
Project Age Limit
Minimum 18 years, maximum dependent on potential participants’ health.
