South America
wild women on
top inca rivers trek
trip highligh­­­ts
The splendor of Cusco with its churches, cathedrals,
plazas, markets and cultural heritage
Walking in the beautiful Sacred Valley to
view ancient Inca salt pans
Explore the magnificent and remote ‘lost’
Inca ruins of Choquequirau
Remote and unique trek along the spectacular Vilcabamba
Mountain Range between two sacred Inca Rivers
Experience an incredible and very rarely
seen view of Machu Picchu against dramatic
mountains from the Inca site at Paltallacta
3 sumptuous and hearty meals a day on
trek prepared by our trek chefs
Mouthwatering traditional Andean Gourmet Banquet on the Trip Duration18 days
Trip Code: WWI
final night of trek with rarely see views of Machu Picchu GradeModerate to Challenging
Exploring the incredible and enigmatic ruins at Machu Picchu ActivitiesTrekking, 10 day trek, 6‑9 hours/day (at altitude,
generally not exceeding 5,500m), Daypack only
Trip escorted by Wild Women On Top Coach
(6‑8kg) and Andean climate/variable weather
Summary18 day trip, 10 day trek, 6
nights hotel and 9 nights camping
welcome to
World Expeditions
Thank you for your interest in the Wild Women On Top Inca Rivers
adventure. At World Expeditions we are passionate about our off the
beaten track experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill
of coming face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness
regions of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that
our unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for
the enjoyment of small groups or individuals ‑ philosophies that have
been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure
holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience,
designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our
vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible
tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include
trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World
Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for
a life changing experience!!
1 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Bec Leorke 1/12/2016 10:21:06 AM
why travel with World Expeditions?
Our Peruvian operations are directed by Andreas Holland who has lived
and worked in South America for over 25 years. His staff are dedicated
to providing you with the very best travel experience while ensuring that
our operations comply with all the rules for responsible and sustainable
tourism. This trip offers exceptional value for money, using good quality,
centrally located hotels, the best internal flights with the best airlines,
private transportation in vehicles that are driven by our drivers and
maintained by recognized mechanics, many meals, all your entrance
fees and permit fees, expert leadership and much more. Compare our
prices and all our inclusions and we feel that few trips can compare in
terms of value for money. Given our local knowledge, experience and
excellent leadership, we are quite sure that this trip will be the trip of a
lifetime.
wild women on top
inca rivers trek
Peru
Lima
Traverse via the lost ruins of Choquequirau to Machu Picchu
Brazil
Machu
Cachora Picchu
Cusco
Bolivia
trip dates
2016
08Sep - 25Sep
trip cost
Joining Cusco:$4790
All prices are per person
options & supplements
Please contact us to receive a quote on the recommended
group flights outlined in this itinerary. At the time of trip launch,
airfares are not yet released for 2016. Once the fares for this
trip are available to book we will be able to quote the best fare
available for this routing and airfare combination. Flights from
Sydney to Lima/Cusco are approximately $2500‑$2600 . Note
this is indicative only. Please be assured our staff will provide
the best available airfare for you at the time of booking.
Please do not pay for airfares until minimum numbers
have been met and the trip has been confirmed.
OUR STAFF are committed to providing the best airfare we
can for Wild Women On Top Members however should you
find a cheaper fare elsewhere, please let our staff know,
and if we are able to book this fare, we will. Many thanks.
Inclusions Valued at USD$:
Park & Entry Fees:USD$110
the trip
On this exclusive trek for Wild Women On Top, pristine campsites, stunning views of giant
snow‑covered Andean peaks, ancient cloud forest, abundant wildflowers and the Inca ruins of
Choquequirau are just some of the highlights you will encounter on this outstanding trek. Our
route follows a brilliant mountain traverse between two sacred Inca rivers ‑ to the west the
Apurimac and to the east the Urubamba. These mighty rivers are the main tributaries of the
Amazon. Between these rivers lies the great Vilcabamba Mountain Range ‑ the last stronghold
of the Inca Empire. Unique to this area is the recently cleared and spectacular ‘lost’ ruins of
Choquequirau. Built by the Incas in the 15th century, like Machu Picchu, it became lost in high
jungle which engulfed the ruins until being rediscovered in the early 20th century. A day is set
aside to explore this impressive site before continuing our trek to the Inca site at Paltallacta
where we partake in an incredible traditional Andean Gourmet Feast with stunning and rarely
seen view of our final destination ‑ Machu Picchu. We hope you can join Wild Women On Top
on this truly remarkable adventure.
wild women on top team benefits
When you join a Wild Women On Top trip, you become part of an incredible team, and the
success of your adventure will depend on the fitness, mental tuffness and emotional tuffness
of EVERY team member. The whole is much greater than the sum of the parts!
Wild Women On Top Adventures are unique mind, body, spirit experiences, which support
you in the wilderness and empower you to take on extraordinary challenges with a group of
likeminded women. You will need to prepare for your adventure and we will show you how,
every step of the way.
BEFORE you book for a Wild Women On Top Trip, please note the following benefits &
conditions:
1. Please “Join Our Tribe” by purchasing an online Lifetime Adventure Membership or by
committing to Trek Training sessions (min 3 months – Sydney only) so you get our girl power.
Go to www.wildwomenontop.com to join. Note: Bookings will not be honoured until this
condition is met.
2. To ensure you get fit fast & remain injury free, you should Trek Train at least three times
a week, alternating interval training and endurance training with cross training such as
swimming and yoga. Your Coach will also suggest additional trip specific endurance and
technical activities. Adventure Members must follow training recommendations from the
coach & in “How to Prepare for World Class Treks” by Di Westaway. Should you be training
remotely, your Coach will require you to “check in” and report on your training each week in
the months leading up to your trip.
3. To build team spirit & ensure you’re really prepared, your Trip Coach may recommend
additional team training activities and briefings as required. Please visit www.
wildwomenontop.com to book in to Trek Training and Trip Training.
4. So you have more fun with your team, you will be required to take part in a specialised
team trekking assessment. You’ll get to meet your team and ensure that you are fabulously
prepared for your adventure with great tips and feedback. If you cant attend the assessment,
your Coach will supervise a remote assessment to be completed before the team assessment
date. If you fail the assessment and a personalised supplementary assessment, you will not
be eligible for the trip and will be subject to the costs incurred according to World Expeditions
cancellation policy.
5. So that we all have a great adventure, please support the Wild Women On Top Golden
Rules (see www.wildwomenontop.com) and take responsibility for providing feedback before
and during your adventure. This is your chance to make sure you don’t miss out on any happy
hormones so don’t hold back! Make the most of it.
2 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Bec Leorke 1/12/2016 10:21:06 AM
wild women on top
inca rivers trek
Traverse via the lost ruins of Choquequirau to Machu Picchu
6. All Wild Women On Top trips are accompanied by a Wild Women On Top Coach who
supports & unites the group with empowering passion, guidance & tips in wilderness
challenges and shares Wild Women On Top Traditions & culture. However the Coach is NOT
the guide, navigator or first aider.
7. In some extreme environments, including at high altitude, your Coach may not always be
able to meet your expectations. It is your responsibility to seek assistance from the World
Expeditions guides as required by you.
8. You must commit to the World Expeditions payment schedule.
9. Wild Women On Top reserves the right to amend these requirements at any time – WWW.
WILDWOMENONTOP.COM
10. Expect the unexpected. We provide wilderness experiences, and **** sometimes happens.
Remember, “Magic happens when you step outside your comfort zone”.
We reserve the right to change these Team Benefits at any time.
at a glance
DAY 18 SEPTEMBER 2016 - ARRIVE LIMA
DAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2016 - FLY TO CUSCO
DAY 310 SEPTEMBER 2016 - CUSCO CITY TOUR & SACSAYHUAMAN
DAY 411 SEPTEMBER 2016 - DRIVE AND WALK DOWN INTO THE SACRED VALLEY OF THE
INCAS & OLLYANTAYTAMBO
DAY 512 SEPTEMBER 2016 - DRIVE TO TRAILHEAD AT CACHORA TO START TREK.
DAY 613 SEPTEMBER 2016 - TREK CACHORA TO SANTA ROSA
DAY 714 SEPTEMBER 2016 - TREK SANTA ROSA TO CHOQUEQUIRAU
DAY 815 SEPTEMBER 2016 - EXPLORING CHOQUEQUIRAU AND TREK TO RIO BLANCO
DAY 916 SEPTEMBER 2016 - TREK RIO BLANCO TO PAJONAL VICTORIA
DAY 1017 SEPTEMBER 2016 - TREK PAJONAL VICTORIA TO BATEA PAQUISHA
DAY 1118 SEPTEMBER 2016 - TREK BATEA PAQUISHA TO COLLPAPAMPA
DAY 1219 SEPTEMBER 2016 - TREK COLLPAPAMPA TO LUCMABAMBA
DAY 1320 SEPTEMBER 2016 - TREK LUCMABAMBA TO PALTALLACTA - ANDEAN FEAST
WITH VIEW OF MACHU PICCHU
DAY 1421 SEPTEMBER 2016 - TREK TO AGUAS CALIENTES.
DAY 1522 SEPTEMBER 2016 - VISIT INCREDIBLE SITE OF MACHU PICCHU. RETURN TO
CUSCO.
DAY 1623 SEPTEMBER 2016 - FLY TO LIMA. TRIP CONCLUDES
DAY 1724 SEPTEMBER 2016 - DEPART LIMA
DAY 1825 SEPTEMBER 2016 - ARRIVE SYDNEY
what’s included
15 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 9 dinners
Traditional Andean Gourmet Banquet on last night of trek
airport transfers if arriving and departing on group flights
group medical kit
comfortable and central hotels, primarily Casa Andina Classic hotels
private internal transport
gear pack including sleeping bag, fibre filled jacket and sleeping mat
group camping equipment
porters to carry personal gear
sightseeing and site entrance fees as listed (including Machu Picchu entrance fee)
expert bilingual guide
3 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Bec Leorke 1/12/2016 10:21:06 AM
wild women on top
inca rivers trek
Traverse via the lost ruins of Choquequirau to Machu Picchu
Wild Women On Top Assessment Walk valued at $147
trip escorted by Wild Women On Top Coach
fast facts
Countries Visited:
Peru
Visas:
Please check visa requirements with
your reservations consultant*
Vaccinations:
Please consult a travel vaccination
specialist for up to date information
Singles:
A single supplement is available for this trip*
Leader:
Expert local leader
Brochure Reference:
The Americas
*Ask our staff for more information.
Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with many operators in the
adventure travel industry. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the
local economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of
cash handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices we have
chosen a policy not to ask for such payments.
detailed itinerary
DAY 18 September 2016 - Arrive Lima
If arriving on the group flight (see below) you will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel
where you will rest for the night after your long flight from Australia. Overnight Casa Andina Classic.
Recommended group flight (NOTE: flights are not included in your trip cost)
LA 800 depart Sydney at 1055 arrive Santiago 1415
Connect with:
LA2632 depart Santiago at 1610 arrive Lima at 1810
meals: NIL
DAY 29 September 2016 - Fly to Cusco
An early morning transfer for the spectacular flight down to Cusco.
Recommended group flight (NOTE: flights are not included in your trip cost)
LA2123 depart Lima at 0900 arrive Cusco at 1030.
This morning you will have a short initial briefing and then a few hours of rest, essential to initiate
successful acclimatisation. In the evening you’ll have a longer briefing to discuss aspects of the
itinerary & in particular the trek. Overnight Casa Andina Classic.
meals: B
DAY 310 September 2016 - Cusco City Tour & Sacsayhuaman
After breakfast we take a tour of the city and nearby ruins. Every alleyway we enter or corner
we turn brings another surprise or enigma in the form of the superbly constructed Inca walls or
the more architecturally extravagant colonial churches and palaces. The city, once capital of the
extensive Inca Empire, has seen many changes since Francisco Pizarro’s men took the city with
such apparent ease in November 1533. We also take a short drive to visit the monolithic walls of
Sacsayhuaman, spectacularly set above the city. In the afternoon you may have time to explore
some of the central parts of the city and a chance to look at some of the great varieties of local craft
work on sale in open air stalls and shop. Overnight Casa Andina Classic.
meals: B
DAY 411 September 2016 - Drive and walk down into the Sacred Valley of the Incas &
Ollyantaytambo
We leave Cusco and head to the Chinchero Plateau from where we get impressive views of three
mountain ranges. We then drive down through the remarkable Inca Salt Pans below Maras. We end
up in the Sacred Valley near a good restaurant where we can savour dishes made with locally grown
produce. During our time in Sacred Valley we visit some of the enthralling citadels, fortresses and
temple ruins that are found along the valley including the site at Ollantaytambo. The village itself is
a fascinating mixture of Inca and Colonial architecture. In the afternoon we head to our hotel where
the evening is spent preparing for our trek. Overnight Tikawasi Lodge.
meals: B
4 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Bec Leorke 1/12/2016 10:21:06 AM
wild women on top
inca rivers trek
Traverse via the lost ruins of Choquequirau to Machu Picchu
responsible travel
The environments we travel through are
fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to
minimise the impact of our presence. World
Expeditions were the proud recipients of
the inaugural Australian National Travel
Industry’s Environmental Achievement award
for our Responsible Travel Guidebook. This
detailed guide to responsible and sustainable
travel is provided to all World Expeditions
clients before they travel. Please ask your
consultant if you have not received your copy
of our award winning book. Alternatively,
you may like to download a copy from our
website www.worldexpeditions.com
trip grading
Moderate to Challenging
This trip is graded moderate to challenging
and is suitable for fit and healthy people.
Prior trekking is not necessary, although you
would be expected to be comfortable in the
outdoors and enjoy camping for successive
days. These adventures involve trekking for
up to 6 ‑ 8 hours a day at a steady pace and
may include longer days up to 10 hours.
These trips may spend successive days at
altitudes not generally exceeding 5,500m
and the actual treks are usually between
10 and 15 days in duration. You will need a
good level of fitness and be in good health.
*Suggested preparation: 45 minutes of
aerobic type exercise, three to five times
a week for the three months leading
up to your trip. Hill walking with a pack
in variable weather conditions is also
recommended. To prepare for a walking
holiday we recommend you take every
opportunity to walk up and down stairs and/
or hills, for leg strengthening and aerobic
fitness. Please remember the fitter you
are the more you will enjoy your holiday.
DAY 512 September 2016 - Drive to Trailhead at Cachora to start trek.
Today you will be collected from your Sacred Valley hotel for the drive (approx 5 hours) to the town
of Cachora (2600mts) above the Apurimac River. On the way we stop in the famous Sayhuite carved
rock for a picnic lunch. Arriving at Cachora we walk for about 30 minutes to our first campsite, right
outside town.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 613 September 2016 - Trek Cachora to Santa Rosa
On this our first full day of trekking we descend in places very steeply to the spectacular Apurimac
river canyon. At first the descent is quite gentle, then it gets steeper and hotter as we go deeper in
to the canyon to Playa Rosalina (1550 mts) where we have lunch. We then cross the river before
starting a steep ascent to our next campsite near the hamlets of Santa Rosa (2100mts). If we are
lucky we could see some condors and spectacle bears. Walking time 8 hours approx.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 714 September 2016 - Trek Santa Rosa to Choquequirau
An early departure this morning as we continue the hot ascent for most of the day. After a few hours
walk we reach Marampata (2850mts) for lunch, a place with incredible views of the whole Apurimac
canyon. In the afternoon we walk all the way to Choquequirau (3050mts), where we camp. Walking
time 8 hours approx.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 815 September 2016 - Exploring Choquequirau and trek to Rio Blanco
This morning after breakfast we spend some time simply wondering around this marvellous site,
which actually is larger than Machu Picchu! There are many similarities with Machu Picchu, this
enigmatic monumental site was also built during the mid to late 15th century, it became lost for
many centuries as the high jungle in this area soon covered the ruins and it was re-discovered by
Hiram Bingham in the early 20th Century. We then walk down, through some beautiful terraces and
thick, lush vegetation, all the way to the Yuracmayu (Rio Blanco) at 1860mts, where we camp for the
night. This is a hot, dusty spot, but we can refresh and wash in this beautiful stream. Walking time 6
hours approx.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 916 September 2016 - Trek Rio Blanco to Pajonal Victoria
Today we ascend through some beautiful cloud forest all the way to Maizal (3085mts) for lunch.
We then keep ascending a few more hours to our campsite at Pajonal (3785mts). Today is very
spectacular for bird watching as well as for the varieties of flowers along the trail, especially the
orchids. Walking time 8 to 9 hours approx.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 1017 September 2016 - Trek Pajonal Victoria to Batea Paquisha
This morning we climb a couple of hours to the San Juan pass (3900mts), then drop down into
the Yanama Valley with great views of Panta and Pumasillo snowed peaks. After lunch in Yanama
village (3530mts), we walk for 2 more hours to the breathtaking camp at Batea Paquisha (4000mts).
Walking time 7 hours approx. Camp.
meals: B,L,D
5 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Bec Leorke 1/12/2016 10:21:06 AM
wild women on top
inca rivers trek
Traverse via the lost ruins of Choquequirau to Machu Picchu
adventure travel
By its very nature adventure travel
involves an element of the unexpected.
In remote and developing countries do
not expect standards you are used to
at home. Remote areas are sometimes
unpredictable and itineraries may be altered.
To get the most out of your adventure it
is important that you are flexible, positive
and eager to take on all the challenges
that arise. If you are uncertain about your
suitability for this trip we recommend
that you speak with your consultant.
important note
“Expect The Unexpected”. Wild Women
On Top Itineraries can change at any
time, depending on local conditions,
group requirements and weather.
DAY 1118 September 2016 - Trek Batea Paquisha to Collpapampa
Today we climb from our campsite to the top of Yanama Pass (4665mts) where we have amazing views
of Veronica, Salcantay and Humantay peaks to the south. Then we drop down to Totora (3425mts),
and continue on to Collpapampa (2880mts), our next campsite where we can enjoy the hot springs.
Walking time 8 to 9 hours approx.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 1219 September 2016 - Trek Collpapampa to Lucmabamba
Today we continue our descent through very lush cloud forest, full of begonias, orchids and crops like
coffee and passion fruit, to Playa (2091mts). From here we continue another hour or so to our campsite
at Lucmabamba (2450 mts). Today we can try and spot Torrent Ducks and the elusive Cock of the
Rocks, Peru’s national bird. Walking time 7 hours approx.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 1320 September 2016 - Trek Lucmabamba to Paltallacta - Andean Feast with view of Machu Picchu
Today is a short days trekking as we ascend from Lucmabamba to Paltallacta (2655mts), where we will
set camp and begin preparations for our final night gourmet Andean feast. Here we will drink a toast
to our amazing journey with incredible, and very rarely seen, views of Machu Picchu. It will be a fitting
conclusion to this marvelous adventure.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 1421 September 2016 - Trek to Aguas Calientes.
After breakfast we descend to the mighty Urubamba River - the main source of the Amazon (1900mts)
to walk alongside the railway tracks to Aguas Calientes (200mts) where we check in to our hotel. This
evening we will be free to enjoy the town and the hot shower! Walking time 5 hours approx. Overnight
El Mapi Hotel.
meals: B,L
DAY 1522 September 2016 - Visit incredible site of Machu Picchu. Return to Cusco.
After an early morning professionally led tour of the site we’re free to explore the rest of the amazing
sights. Mid-afternoon we depart from Machu Picchu for the extremely pretty train ride back to
Ollantaytambo where we transfer to our vehicle for the drive back to Cusco. Here we transfer to our
hotel for one night. Overnight Casa Andina Classic.
meals: B
DAY 1623 September 2016 - Fly to Lima. Trip concludes
If you are departing on the recommended group flight (see below) you will be transferred from the
hotel to the airport at around lunchtime.
Recommended group flight (NOTE: flights are not included in your trip cost)
LA 2036 depart Cusco at 1405 arrive Lima 1530
Connect with
LA 643 depart Lima at 1705 arrive Santiago 2240
meals: B
DAY 1724 September 2016 - Depart Lima
Recommended Group Flight (NOTE: Flights are not included in your trip cost)
LA801 depart Santiago at 0055 arrive Sydney 0905 (arrive on 25th Sep)
meals: NIL
6 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Bec Leorke 1/12/2016 10:21:06 AM
wild women on top
inca rivers trek
Traverse via the lost ruins of Choquequirau to Machu Picchu
DAY 1825 September 2016 - Arrive Sydney
Arrive Sydney on LA801 at 0905.
meals: NIL
This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
suggested extensions
Galapagos Islands Cruise
Colca Canyon & Arequipa
Nazca and Ballestas Islands
Lake Titicaca and La Paz
Amazon Jungle
Iguazu Falls
Buenos Aires
country information
Peru ‑ has a population of 28 million, made up of pure‑blooded Indians (biggest group are the
Quechuas, whose forebears were the “Incas”) and Mestizos, who are a mixture of Indian and
European backgrounds. More than half the population lives in the largest cities, namely Lima,
Arequipa and Trujillo. Peru has an area of 1,300,000 square kms, and is located on the Pacific
coast of South America. Its capital, Lima, located 12 degrees south of the equator, was the
capital of Spanish South America from its founding in 1535 until the early 19th Century. The old
central part of the city with its impressive commercial section, whose architecture was greatly
influenced by the English, contrasts sharply with the more modern office blocks, shopping
centres and suburbs and especially the ever expanding shanty towns or “pueblos jovenes”
where the poorer country cousins, who move to the city to try and find work and live. Official
languages are Spanish and Quechua. Geographically, Peru is made up of the three distinct
regions. Firstly the arid coastal strip, mainly desert and up to 60 kms wide. Down the centre
of the country runs the great range of snow peaks and highlands that make up part of the
immensely long chain of mountains known as the Andes, running from Colombia in the north
all the way to the southern tip of Chile. The third region is the jungle ‑ from the “eyebrow of
the jungle” in the Andean foothills to the pristine jungles of the great Amazon rain forest. The
coastal area is the economic heartland of Peru, and the coastal waters with the cold Humboldt
Current running north up the coast contain some of the richest fishing grounds in the world.
The highlands or “sierra” contain more than a third of the population ‑ mostly the Quechua‑ or
Aymara‑speaking Indians engaged mainly in pastoral farming. This is a high, very often lush
and fertile land of gentle slopes and valleys surrounded by the high peaks of the Cordilleras
Vilcabamba, Vilcanota and Blanca. Cusco, once the capital of the great Inca Empire, stands
at 3400 metres (11,200’) in the heart of the southern sierra. It is remarkable for the perfect
stonework of its Inca ruins, its many beautiful colonial churches and palaces, and of course the
world‑renowned ruins of the lost city of the Incas at Machu Picchu.
climate
The trekking season in Peru lasts from the end of April (the last month of the wet season)
through to mid‑October (by which time the rains have returned and hiking becomes more
difficult due to muddy trails and snowed‑in passes). Temperatures in the area around Lima
are warm during the day (20‑25°C) and cool (5°C) at night. In the highlands of Peru, where the
treks take place, daytime temperatures will be in the range of 10‑20°C falling as low as ‑10°C at
night. Also it is possible that we’ll get some snow on the higher ground and some of the higher
passes.
7 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Bec Leorke 1/12/2016 10:21:06 AM
wild women on top
inca rivers trek
Traverse via the lost ruins of Choquequirau to Machu Picchu
mountain flights
The flight from Lima is a spectacular 55‑minute trip which takes you across the Andes to Cusco
set at 11,200’ (3,400m). If possible try and get a seat on the left side of the aircraft as some of
the best views of the Andes can be seen during the last 20 minutes of the flight.
a typical day
Accommodation:
During the trip you will be accommodated in generally 3 star hotels/hostals, primarily Casa
Andina Classic hotels, which have been chosen for their local flavour, central location and
cleanliness. There will also be one night on the Island of the Sun in a home stay which is rustic.
You will not need sleeping bags as you are provided with simple sheets and heavy blankets. We
recommend that you take a sleeping sheet if you would prefer your own linen during this stay.
Leaders:
Your main guide will meet you in Cusco and be with you for the remainder of the trip from day 2
onwards.
Touring Routine:
Depending on the itinerary for the day, you will either be travelling or sightseeing. Local experts
generally fill the mornings with tours to the local sites. After lunch, further sightseeing will take
place or there will be leisure time for you to read, relax at the hotel or explore.
Trekking Routine:
Our trekking day starts around 6.30am with a wake‑up call and fresh cup of tea brought to
your tent. Hot water is available for a light morning wash. Breakfast is served in the dining
tent and consists of hot porridge and toast and jam, served with coffee, hot milk and tea. On
some days we serve bacon and eggs or pancakes. Before breakfast it’s often a good idea for
you to pack up your duffle bags, prepare your day packs and take down your tents so that
the mule or llama skinners can organise the loading for departure. The mornings hike usually
lasts from about 8:00am to 12.30pm allowing plenty of rest and photo stops. Lunch is of the
picnic type and is prepared by one of the cooks who accompany us during the morning. It
consists of salads (vegetables and/or noodles), sometimes soups, salamis, cheese, peanut
butter, bread, crackers, tinned meats and fish, topped off by freshly brewed tea and biscuits.
After lunch we set off for the afternoon’s hike ‑ usually 2 to 3 hours to the camp. On arrival in
camp (which will have already been set up in advance) tea and coffee will be served and you
are then free to do as you like until dinnertime. Served at 6:30 ‑ 7:00pm, dinner consists of three
courses ‑ soup or fresh salad, a main course of stews, spaghetti or rice dishes (all prepared
with fresh meat and vegetables) served with red or white cask wines (on last night of trek) and
followed by dessert, tea, coffee and Milo. Nor will you go hungry during the walking day. Apart
from lunch you will also get a “snack pack” made up of chocolates, nuts and fresh fruit. Most
of the walking is on fairly well‑defined tracks, including some remarkable sections of ancient
Inca stone “highways”. There are occasional river crossings but no really steep sections where
scrambling is involved. Most groups like to spread out over the trail, stopping for photographs,
resting, and bird‑watching or just ambling and taking time out to absorb the lovely surroundings.
The only thing we ask you to remember is not to get too far ahead of, or behind the main party,
and to keep your guide within view. One of the guides or camp staff almost always walks with
the slowest member of the group ‑ so there’s no chance of being left behind. In fact almost
everyone finds and manages to keep to their own pace. Obviously in the event of very bad
weather or adverse conditions, the guide will keep the group as close together as possible. The
evenings are often one of the most enjoyable parts of the day. After a relaxing dinner, people like
to sit in the dining tent ‑ talking, playing cards or scrabble, reading, chatting or just relaxing (a
good idea to bring games, cards and books along).Mules (and Porters on the Inca Trail) are used
to transport your baggage but you will need a day‑pack to carry the things you’ll want during
the walking day ‑ water bottle, camera etc.
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wild women on top
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Traverse via the lost ruins of Choquequirau to Machu Picchu
meals during the trek
We provide a full service while on trek. An important aspect of this service are the meals that
are prepared for you and we are frequently complimented by returning travellers about the food
provided. Ensuring that you stay healthy is one of our highest priorities. Therefore, each of our
treks is accompanied by a trained cook as well as kitchen staff who provide you with three
hearty meals each day. High levels of hygiene are engaged to ensure that our travellers stay
healthy and fit. Our cooking staff has mastered the preparation of a varied and balanced menu
and there is always plenty of food for those who may like seconds. Our cooks are trained to
provide excellent food for vegetarians and anyone who has a limited diet including those who
are lactose or gluten intolerant. Our meal inclusion on your trek is for your benefit and takes all
the hassle, expense and worry out of your holiday. Typically, you can expect breakfast to consist
of muesli or cereal, eggs, local breads and pancakes and hot drinks. Lunch will generally be
vegetables, salads, bread, cheese pasta style dishes, tinned fish and meats and are normally
eaten picnic style. Dinner is always three courses and includes soup, seasonal vegetables,
meat, rice or pasta and bread with some local specialties also in the mix. Dessert is always
served after the main meal each evening followed by hot beverages.
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets
and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure
you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to
determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please
note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more
expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need
to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and
therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take
all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must
travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering
these medications.
what you carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location
and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, film and camera gear, valuables and personal items
such as sunscreen, lip‑eze etc. Porters and mules carry all group gear and your trek pack.
equipment required
A comprehensive gear list is provided in the pre‑departure information supplied on booking.
acute mountain sickness
When we ascend above 2500 meters our bodies have to acclimatise to the decreasing amount
of the oxygen available. To allow our bodies to adjust we have structured our treks so that you
ascend slowly, allowing acclimatisation to occur. However, during the acclimatisation process,
you may experience some of the following symptoms.
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Disturbed sleep
• Loss of appetite/nausea
• Shortness of breath
• Cough
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wild women on top
inca rivers trek
Traverse via the lost ruins of Choquequirau to Machu Picchu
• Palpitation
• Swelling of the hands and face
Individuals acclimatise at different rates. Your best strategy is to take your time and drink plenty
of water. These symptoms may not indicate the onset of A.M.S. and if you experience them it
does not necessarily mean that you should not continue. All our group leaders have extensive
first aid training and we urge you to communicate with the group leader at all times should you
believe you have any symptoms in order that we can effectively monitor your symptoms. The
only cure for Acute Mountain Sickness is to descend.
Please note that your group leader has ultimate responsibility and may ask you to descend if
symptoms persist.
porter initiatives
Porter Welfare in Peru: The Andes
Porters are an integral part of the World Expeditions philosophy and style of travel. We take our
travellers off‑the‑beaten track, avoiding the congested trails, to experience our often remote
tent‑based adventures … this style of trekking is enabled by porters. When we trek, the entire
group ‑ travellers, guides and porters alike ‑ are a team who share the same needs for safety in
the mountain environment. Our Peruvian porters receive the following:
*All porters receive the same access to medical service as clients.
*We provide all food (3 meals per day based on a menu requested specifically by the porters),
gas stoves for all cooking.
*We are one of the 5 companies (among almost 200 companies) that pay the highest wages to
their porters.
*All our porters can also access interest free long‑term loans from us as long as they can clearly
indicate how those funds will be used.
*We provide all our porters with basic life and accident insurance. In addition we provide any
porter (or any member of their family) full coverage of any medical costs that they incur whether
it be work related or not e.g. if they have an accident in their fields or if they get any kind of
illness we fund their treatment until they are well again. We are one of the only companies in
Peru to care for their staff to this extent
*We provide transport (private buses and train) to and from the trek start and finish.
We provide sleeping tents, sleeping pads, (plus sleeping bags if requested), footwear (shoes or
boots), warm jackets and raingear.
Porters are not to carry more than 20 kilos camp gear and 5 kilos of personal gear
The minimum age for a Porter is 20 and the maximum age is 58 years old.
We have yearly meetings to discuss the needs of Porters.
World Expeditions supports the good work of a number of international organisations that
operate to ensure the health and education of porters, they are:
International Porter Protection Group >> www.ippg.net
International Mountain Explorers Connection >> www.mountainexplorers.org
Kilimanjaro Guide Scholarship Foundation Inc. >> www.kiliguides.org
what’s not included
Travel Insurance (compulsory)
Visas
Medical treatment
Excess baggage costs
Cost of laundry and alcoholic beverages
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wild women on top
inca rivers trek
Traverse via the lost ruins of Choquequirau to Machu Picchu
Meals not outlined in the itinerary
International and Peru domestic flights (please talk with our staff today who will
provide you a competitive airfare quote)
private groups
Wild Women On Top Golden Rules
1. Set challenging adventure goals, write them down, train hard and you will achieve them [No
excuses!]
2. Stay Positive at all times
3. T.E.A.M. Together Everyone Achieves More
4. Expect the unexpected
5. If you have a gripe, handle it discretely, or air it politely [Don’t let it fester!]
6. Buy quality gear [This will save you money and could save your life]
7. Don’t come home from training or trips tired. Be energized & happy.
8. Leave no trace (The wilderness is sacred!)
9. Bring MORE than you take away. [Including chocolate!]
10. Happy endings guarantee the next leave pass!
[this one is secret!]
subscribe to our e-newsletter
To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and
adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e‑newsletter! You can do this on line through our
website, www.worldexpeditions.com or contact our office.
social networking
Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/WorldExpeditions
how to book
To book a Wild Women On Top trip, you will need to complete a booking form and pay a non
refundable deposit which you can do by using our online booking function, details of which will
be provided at the time of the trip launch with Wild Women On Top. We can also help you with
any additional arrangements that you require, such as competitive airfares to get you to your
destination, stopovers, pre or post trip accommodation or any additional tours that you wish to
take in conjunction with the main trip.
Important: You must be a financial member of Wild Women On Top to join this tour. Please go
to WWW.WILDWOMENONTOP.COM, ring 0434 027 912 or email [email protected]
for more details on training and memberships.
11 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Bec Leorke 1/12/2016 10:21:06 AM