Footprint Expeditions in South America

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• » Southern Cross - 28 Days with Traditional (SCLS-OEN)
• » Southern Cross - 28 Days with Inca Jungle Trail (SCLS-OEJ)

Day 01. - Lima

Arrive in Lima at anytime throughout the day. Transportation is included from the airport to the corresponding hotel, and there are no activities planned for this day until our first welcome meeting in the late afternoon, most likely in the hotel lobby.

Lima is the largest city in Peru as well as is the capital of the country. Geographically located on the Pacific Coast, Lima is the 5th largest city in Latin America, following only Mexico City, São Paulo, Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro.

Lima was founded by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535, and was swiftly named La Ciudad de los Reyes, or "The City of the Kings." For three centuries it was considered the most important city in the Americas because the economical, social and political power that was centered there. 

Down town Lima is on the UNESCO list of cities granted with World Heritage status, using its historic wonder to make it a suggested region for travelers and visitors to Peru. The architecture in this part of Lima is characterized by a mix of styles. Take time to visit the Plaza de Armas, the San Franciscan Monastery, the Cathedral, and the Torre Tagle Palace, much of which are influenced by both the Spanish Baroque and Colonial periods. Lima is also home to the highest concentration of museums in the country, the most notable being: the National Museum, Larco Museum, and the Gold Museum, each containing exhibitions about pre-Columbian culture, art, history, and religion.

Lima has a plethora of culinary options, which can be seen in its title as the “Gastronomical Capital of the Americas”. There is a wonderful mixture of food genres here, with many Chinese, Andean, Japanese, and Amazonian. Also, Lima holds various Guinness World Records for the quality and diversity in the aspects of its culinary grandeur.

Day 02. - Cuzco.

An early flight from Lima will take us to the Capital of the Inca Empire. Today we suggest taking it easy, just relaxing and exploring this ancient city at your own pace. Cuzco is located 3316 meters above sea level. This famous city is the main destination for travelers in South America.

This ancient city has several impressive titles such as the “Navel of the World”, “Historical Capital of Peru”, is one of UNESCO’s sacred World Heritage cities, and is deemed the “Archeological Capital of the Americas”. These titles were earned due to the fact that Cuzco has a unique combination of cobble-stoned streets, Inca walls bordering most down town streets, colonial houses with Inca stones bases, churches centuries old, plazas, and Quechua speaking descendants. This cosmopolitan city also has great night life where you can meet people from every corner of the world.

One great site worth visiting is the Cathedral of Cuzco, located in the Main Square. It was founded in 1559 and took nearly one hundred years to build. It is the greatest repository of colonial arts and history in the city. Another recommended sight is the Qorikancha temple, considered the most important and most elaborate Inca building from that time with highly masterful stonework throughout.

The majority of the main Inca ruins are located right outside the city. For example, visit the megalithic fortress of Sacsayhuaman, or visit Qenqo, a limestone rock with dozens of carvings and niches used as a mummifying center. Or, just walk to the closest ruins of Tambomachay, a temple used for the worship of water. Tambomachay still has well preserved water channels and an ancient ceremonial bath place. This ruin is linked with the ruins of PukaPukara, only 300 meters away.
Meals Included: Breakfast (01).

Day 03.- Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo.

This morning we will head East to the Sacred Valley of the Incas,  stopping at  established viewpoints along the way to view both the luscious landscape and typical Andean crops of quinoa, kiwicha and potatoes. We will then have chance to visit the indigenous Andean Community of Ccaccaccollo, which is assisted and supported by our non-profit organization, OYE.  Here you will have the chance to learn the traditional customs of the people living in this area, and they will teach you the ancient weaving techniques that they have practiced for many centuries and continue to use today to support their community. Later in the morning we will head to Awanacancha, another great place to observe llamas, alpacas, vicuñas and guanacos.

Around mid day we will visit the Inca citadel of Pisac which is located directly above the town with the same name. The citadel is well known for the magnificent agricultural terraces and the Intihuatana (Hitching Post of the Sun) which we will learn more about in out visit. We will then descend to the colonial town below which is highly popular for its traditional market and traditionally elaborately dressed locals. This is a good place for shopping for handicrafts.

After a one hour drive we will arrive to the most preserved Inca town, Ollantaytambo.  This town is dominated by the presence of its ruins, the massive Fortress and Ceremonial Center, narrow, cobble-stoned, and perfectly lined streets. Interestingly enough, when viewed from above, the town has the shape of a corn husk, and the fortress the shape of a llama.
Meals Included: Breakfast (01).

Days 04, 06. - Inca Trail.

We will depart from Ollantaytambo driving alongside the Urubamba River until we arrive to the small town of Piscacucho. This is the check point where the most famous trek throughout the entire world begins. Our adventure will take four days and three nights in total.

This hike is for individuals with at least average physical fitness, with the total distance being hiked at 43 km. or 27 miles. The trail crosses valleys, mountains, three high passes, and on the second day, we will reach very high elevation hiking at 4200 meters above sea level (13769 feet) through Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman Pass). Visit the archeological site of Runkurakay, a semicircular ruin with a great view of the Paqaymayo valley. The third day we will hike a more gentle path heading uphill to cross the last High pass where we will then start descending to the ruins of Puyupatamarca (Town Above the Clouds). On clear days it is possible to see both the Urubamba valley and the Vilcabamba Mountain range with its beautiful snow covered peaks. Our last camp is close to the ruins of Wiñaywayna (Forever Young) which obtained this name due to the abundant orchid that blooms and grows here year round.

Our staff of professional guides, cooks, and porters will make sure this adventure is worry-free. Also, the camping gear provided is top quality. Our porters carry the majority of the gear, but please expect to carry a day back pack with your camera, snacks, rain coat and jacket.

Fact: The Inca Empire was originally linked by more than 40,000 kilometers (25,000miles) of trails, crossing deserts, mountains, and jungles.
Meals Included:3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches and 3 Dinners.

Day 07. - Machu Picchu – Cuzco.

We will rise very early in the morning and hike the last 7Km. (5miles) until we arrive at Inti Punku (Sun Gate) where we will have the once in a lifetime experience to watch the beams of the rising sun swim into every crevice of ancient Machu Picchu. Words will not be able to describe the beauty of the view ahead, and one will see the worth of all of the hard work put into the trek to get here. Also, during most of the year it is possible to overlook Machu Picchu while mist rises off of its regal structures while the sun comes up.

Visit Machu Picchu in a guided two hour tour of the most important temples and sectors of this great ruin. Then, later, explore and discover on your own the wonders of the Lost City of the Incas. Later this afternoon we will return to Cuzco by train and bus.

Machu Picchu was recently honored to be part of the New 7 wonders of the World, as well as, like many of our other destinations on this journey, is one of the top World Heritage cities on UNESCO’s prestigious list. Interestingly enough, it is not mentioned in any of the chronicles from Spanish colonialism. No one knows its function and even though it has been studied by scientists for decades, many unanswered questions remain. The town was forgotten for centuries and covered by rich vegetation until July 24th, 1911 when American historian Hiram Bingham was led by an 11 year old boy native to the site where he made the re-discovery of this phenomenal structure. It was all done on accident as Bingham was actually in search of the lost town of Vilcabamba.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Passengers who are either not interested or not able to the hike the Inca Trail can choose to spend 2 days in Cuzco and then travel by train to Aguas Calientes. The next morning they may take and early bus to the Machu Picchu entrance and meet the hikers at the ruins. Please advise your travel agent or Footprint Expeditions while booking if you decide to not hike the Inca Trail. 

Also note that the Inca trail will be closed for general maintenance during the month of February every year. Also note that inclement weather or other conditions beyond our control may occur and the original itinerary might change.
Meals Included: Breakfast.

Day 08. - Cuzco.

Free day to relax or to keep exploring this city. There are several optional excursions available or just arrange a nice massage at one of the local spas. (It may be needed after the long trek!)
Meals Included: Breakfast.

Day 09, 10. – Puno – Uros Floating Reed Islands.

A seven hour bus journey will take us through the Vilcanota Valley and the Altiplano . Here, witness the birthplace of the Amazon River located between the cities of Cuzco and Puno.

The city of Puno sits here on the shores of this lake, which is also the highest navigable lake in the world measuring in at 3820 meters above sea level.

Visit the Floating Reed Islands of Uros, this is a group of artificial floating islands made with reeds that grow in the shallows of the lake. The reeds are fundamental resources for the life of Ureños (inhabitants of these islands) as they use them to build houses, boats, beds and even as food. Ask to take a traditional reed boat trip between the floating islands!

Later in the afternoon visit the Funeral Towers of Sillustani lays on the rolling hills of Lake Umayo Peninsula, at this inspiring location the ancient Collas built these towers to buried their nobilities and then later on the time the Incas improved the quality and magnificence. The cylindrical 12 meters towers, once housed the remains of entire family groups with it belongings and plenty food for their journey to the next world. 

Also, remember to bring warm clothes as it is windy and cold on the lake. Expect cold weather at night round year.
Meals Included: Breakfast (02).

Day 11, 12 – Copacabana – Island of the Sun.

Travel around the shores of the Lake Titicaca in a local bus to reach the small town of Yunguyo, transfer buses to cross the border to Bolivia to get to the picturesque and restful. The town is known for it lake views, Moorish Cathedral, pilgrimage destination and a base to visit the famous Isla del Sol y de la Luna.  Be prepared for a chilly weather round year.

Take a boat to the Island of the Sun, the legendary birthplace of Manco Ccapac and Mama Ocllo, the first Inca people, hike around the island looking for great views of the lake and the Inca ruins. Spent the night with a local family in a simple and basic accommodation, there are no electricity facilities and no hot shower. Next morning return back to mainland for a bus ride to La Paz city.
Meals Included:Breakfast (01) Lunch (01) Dinner (01).

Day 13, 14. – La Paz .

Arrive to La Paz in the afternoon, have some free time to wonder around down town.

The capital of Bolivia, located at an altitude of 3,660 metres (12,008 ft), it is the world's highest capital city.  The city of La Paz was founded by Spanish settlers on the pre- existing site of Choqueyapu, an ancient Aymara village. It was founded as Nuestra Senora de La Paz (Our Lady of Peace) by Alonso de Mendoza in 1548. Originally its was a commercial city on the main road of the silver and gold to the coast and currently is the financial, cultural and administrative capital of Bolivia.

La Paz  has unique markets, and they are located across the city, like the infamous Witches Market where its possible to buy potions for love, money, health or protect from evil spirits and bad energies, at the same time has vivid and traditional culture, most of it inhabitants are mestizos and descendants of the Aymaras and Quechuas.  La Paz is home to the world's highest golf course, football stadium, velodrome (where the world record currently stands).

The average temperature is 16 degrees Celsius, and its consistently cool throughout the year, with a relative dry climate. .

Optional activities include a visit to the Valley of Moon,  Tiahuanaco Archeological site and La Paz down town with its museums.
Meals Included: Breakfast (02).

Day 15-16 Sucre.

Flight to the Constitutional Capital of Bolivia, a colonial city with narrow streets and Andalusian architecture with many fine museums and colonial houses. The city lies at an altitude of 2750m (9,000Ft.) Its lower altitude gives the city a warm temperate climate year-round.

Travel in local bus to the white city of Sucre, it was originally  founded under the name Ciudad de la Plata de la Nueva Toledo in 1538 and it name changed in 1839, after the city became the capital of Bolivia, it was renamed in honor of the revolutionary leader Antonio José de Sucre, Simon Bolivar’s second in-command.

Includes an excursion to the dinosaur tracks park, 60 million years old dinosaur footprints.

The city’s  cemetery worth your visit, whose entrance reads in Latin, ¨ today us, tomorrow you¨ some Bolivians presidents are buried here.
Meals Included: Breakfast (02).

Day 17-18 - Potosí.

The adventure continues with a  bus ride from Sucre to Potosi on a paved and dirt road. Potosi is considered the largest silver mine of the world, exploited for more than 400 years. Sitting at 4090 meters above sea level (13420Ft.) claimed to be the highest city in the world. It lies beneath the Cerro de Potosí or sometimes called Cerro Rico (Rich Mountain). Founded in 1546 as a mining town, it soon produced fabulous wealth, becoming one of the largest cities in the Americas and once it population exceeded 200,000 people.

Declared by UNESCO like a World Heritage Site in the year of 1987 in recognition of its tragic history as a silver mining centre during the time of Spanish colony. Most of the silver was shipped to the Old Continent, according to official records 45,000 tons.

The city contains colonial architecture like the cathedral, the Convent and Museum of San Francisco and the star attraction of Casa de la Moneda, it was built to control the minting colonial coins.

Visit the miners street market or take an optional tour to the underground mines, this is a memorable experience that should not be missed at least you are claustrophobic. Working practices are medieval with basic tools.
Meals Included: Breakfast (02).

Day 19 - 22 – Uyuni/ Salt Lakes Expedition

Travel by bus to Uyuni on a dirt road. This town lies at the edge of an extensive plain, at an elevation of 3670 meters above sea level (11972 Ft.)  This is the starting point for our expedition to the Salt Lakes.  The next three days we are going to explore and discover the stunning landscapes and natural attractions of this amazing and unique place on earth.

Approximately 40,000 years ago, all that area was part of Lake Minchin, a giant prehistoric lake. The lake dried, it left behind two modern lakes, Poopó Lake and Uru Uru Lake, and two major salt deserts, Salar de Coipasa and the larger Uyuni.

The weather and climate conditions are rough, sunny days, high altitude, very cold weather and chilly nights.

This is the world's largest salt flat at 10,582 km² (4,085 square miles)and it is roughly 25 times the size of the Bonneville Salt Flats in the United States. Today is the main salt mine centre with an exploitation of approximately 25000 tons per year.

For our expeditions we will use 4x4 vehicles to go through the spectacular salt lake, where endless sky blue horizons, colorful lagoons, snow capped mountains geysers, hot springs, red lagoons, volcanoes await for you. Amazingly the Salt flats has fauna and flora; three species of flamingos, vizcachas and many species of cacti.

The accommodation is very basic for two nights inside the Salt Lake; we will spend the nights in small villages. Simple food is included.

The last day cross the isolated border to Chile and descend for more less 2000 meters to the desert of Atacama.
Meals Included:(04) Breakfast (02) Lunches (02) Dinners.

Day 23-24.- San Pedro de Atacama.

Cross the border to Chile,  located at 2500 meters above sea level (8200 Ft.) close to the borders of Bolivia and Argentina, San Pedro de Atacama is a popular destination for backpackers because of its magical and mysticism, and obligated stopping point to enter the Uyuni Salt  Lakes.

This small town has a population of 5000 inhabitants, the desert of Atacama is located between the highlands and the Pacific Ocean, is considered the most arid desert on the world .

A visit to the valley of the Moon is included, it has impressive rock formations caused by the erosion of the winds and rains millions of years ago, and it looks like been walking on the Moon.

There are some optional activities like horse back riding, visiting a pre-Inca ruins of the XII century, biking around the town.
Meals Included: Breakfast (02).

Day 25-26.- Night Bus / La Serena

Cross the desert in a night bus, arrive to La Serena, located on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. These beaches are the most visited between local Chileans, and it’s a hot spot for chilling out, surfing, partying and a great gastronomy.  There are no planned activities for these days.
Meals Included: Breakfast (01).

Day 27, 28.

Santiago After a long bus ride arrive to Santiago. Located on the foothills of the Andes, this city is the seventh biggest city in South America, a modern metropolis; it was founded in 1541 by Pedro de Valdivia.

Explore the many parks, museums and plazas, visit the neighborhood of Brazil with it bohemian buzz or Bellavista with good street lined cafes, innovative restaurants and bars. Santiago its world wide known for its vineyards, brands like Cousiño Macul, Undurraga and Concha y Toro are closest ones, there are full day excursions to visit it.

The great location of this city allows visiting the nearest sky resorts of Valle Nevado, El Colorado,  Farallones and La Parva are all of them are  just one hour away from Santiago. The best season to sky and snowboard are between the months of June to October.

There are no planed activities for these days, you have enough time to explore it, and get a good taste of the city.
Meals Included: Breakfast (02).

Day 29.

Departure day.

There are no planned activities for today. Have a safe journey whether you are headed home or to explore another destination!
Meals Included: Breakfast (01).