MACHU PICCHU color

MACHU PICCHU

Explore an ancient civilization while volunteering and exploring the Andes Mountains.

In June 2010 and June 2012, PLAY it Forward® provided mudslide relief to the small village of Taray after heavy rains devastated the Sacred Valley in January 2010. Rebuilding school furniture, planting trees and constructing guinea pig pens allowed for an intimate cultural exchange experience with the local people. We then explored the Andes Mountains during a 3-day trek in Lares where only llamas and locals crossed our path. Each adventure was completed with a visit to one of the seven-wonders-of-the-world, Machu Picchu.

9-day itinerary

Day 1: Cusco - Arrive in Cusco by 1pm, transfer to hotel, afternoon with kids of Taray, orientation, group dinner

Day 2: Taray – Begin service project in Taray

Day 3: Taray- Hike Pisaq with teens of Taray, visit Pisaq market, continue service project in Taray

Day 4:Sacred Valley- Closing ceremony in Taray, transfer to the Sacred Valley

Day 5: Andes- Drive to Lares Valley, begin trekking from Qelcanca, end at Cuncani camp (12,582′)

Day 6: Andes- Trek to Wuacawasi Pass (15,193′) to enjoy views of Urubamba Range and Aruraycocha Lake

Day 7: Andes – Descend along Mantacnayniyoc Canyon to Yanahuara

Day 8: Machu Picchu – Catch train to Machu Picchu for a guided tour followed by hiking or relaxing, overnight in Aguas Calientes

Day 9: Cusco – Return to Cusco for a free day of exploring followed by a final group dinner

Past Tour Dates

June 2010 and June 2012

Tour Details

Group size: 6 minimum, 15 maximum – group sizes are kept small, intimate and eco-friendly

Transportation: Plane, hiking, bus, train

Accommodations: You can expect comfortable hotels with private bathrooms with all the basic amenities

Activity Level: Level 4 – a moderate to high level of physical fitness is required

Culture Shock: Level 3 – a moderate level of culture shock will be experienced

Comfort Level: Level 3/1 – a moderate to low level of comfort in hotels and while camping in the Andes

Tour Cost

Land cost: $2550.00 USD

Inclusions: Airport pickup in Cusco,transportation, translation, accommodations, most meals, park entrance fees, materials associated with service project.

Exclusions: International airfare, in-country airfare to Cusco, travel insurance, guide tips, some meals, beverages, souvenirs.

Single Supplement: All participants must place their request for single rooms at time of registration, additional cost is be determined at the time of booking, PLAY it Forward® cannot guarantee the availability of single rooms.