Please read carefully the following information:

• Do not drink tap water, only bottled water.

• Taxis are old but generally safe - we don't recommend riding in one of the little "Ticos". It is practice to tell the Taxi driver where you are going before you get in the taxi and pre-negotiate a price. Usually, it is one - two soles less than the first offer. In Cusco & Puno, you should be able to go anywhere in or around the downtown area for less than 5 soles.

Spending Money?
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping.

Money Exchange?
Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa & MasterCard are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit cards or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money, a combination of US dollar cash, travellers checks and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

What to Take?
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

Checklist:

• Passport (with photocopies)

• Travel insurance (with photocopies)

• Airline tickets (with photocopies)

• USD cash and travellers cheques

• Credit or debit card see personal spending money

• Travel Agency vouchers, pre-departure information and dossier

• Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required

• Camera and film, reading/writing material, binoculars, cover for backpacks, pocket knife

• Fleece top

• Windproof/waterproof jacket

• Small towel and swim wear

• 4 shirts/t-shirts

• Sun hat

• 1 pair of shorts

• 2 pairs of long trousers

• 1 pair hiking pants/track pants

• Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes

• Sports sandals

• Sunblock

• Sunglasses

• Watch or alarm clock

• First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, Ibuprofen for headaches associated with altitude sickness, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).

If I am going to do the Inca Trail, What should I pack?

• Inner sheet (for sleeping bag)

• Wool hat, mitts or gloves (preferably waterproof)

• Rain poncho

• Strong plastic bags to help keep gear dry

• Sleeping bag (this can also be hired locally for approx. $10 USD)

• Mattress (a foam mattress is included as part of the hike; self inflating type mattresses are available for hire)

• Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)

• Thermal underwear. All other camping equipment for the Inca Trail hike is provided and included in the cost of the excursion. Porters carry the gear, so you will only be responsible for carrying your daypack. But please be aware there are weight limits on what the porters can carry, thus every passenger is limited to 7 kg (15.5 lbs), including sleeping bags. All other items may be stored in the Cuzco hotel.