Internationale groepsreis Inca Trail, Titicaca & Nazca

adventure Peru

Great trip to see all Peru has to offer

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Seeing the stars at night on the inca trail and reaching the sun gate and getting our first glimpse of macchu picchu.

What did you think of your group leader?

Really helpful and knowledgeable about Peru and the culture and history, very organized and enthusiastic always wanting to enhance the travelers experience.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Train hard for the inca trail I found it fairly hard and I would say I was an experienced walker and have done a previous trek with exodus which was rated as a 6 which I felt was appropriate. I did feel that the exodus rating of 3 was a little low as they are long days and the weather changes so quickly it can be very hot which makes challenging walking even harder. Cold nights and some rain also. The walk is described as undulating which in areas it is but there is still a fair amount of uphill walking in altitude. There is a lot of driving in this trip so be aware of this but a great way to see the outstanding scenery.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The Nazca lines are very interesting and the flight is a great experience. Lake Titicaca was such a lovely day and the Peruvian locals are so friendly.

Inca Trail, Titicaca and Nazca

The holiday that everyone wishes they had been on. It really was the holiday of a lifetime. I was too scared to do the flight over the Nazca Lines but those that did, enjoyed it. The highlight was of course the Inca Trail and walking through the Sun Gate to see Machu Picchu. Lake Titicaca was a bit of a surprise to me as to the size of it and I will always be amazed at how the Island of Uros remains afloat on reeds, despite our being shown how. This holiday will stay with me forever.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Watching the porters on the Inca Trail carry the amount of luggage/equipment on their backs whilst the rest of us struggled just to walk it. Of particular amazement was watching them run down the steep steps on the last day. Despite their heavy loads, the porters were always very polite and happy to say hello to us.

What did you think of your group leader?

Dennis Dolmos was the perfect leader. He ensured that we were all happy and healthy at all times. Nothing was too much trouble for him to arrange and his knowledge of his country was exceptional.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

this was my first holiday as a solo traveller and I was slightly apprehensive before going, however from the moment I met the rest of the group at the airport, we all seemed to settle into "family life". Everyone was at ease with everyone else and no-one was left out at any time. I could not have wished for a better group of friends to travel with and I hope to keep in touch with them all, any maybe go on more holidays with them.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Inca trail Titicaca and Nazca

Although I found the trail tough, I thoroughly enjoyed my trip. Lake Titicaca and the Reed Islands are so interesting, and different, and the people are lovely. We saw many Inca ruins on the trail and in the Sacred Valley, and they were amazing! The cherry on top though was Machu Pichu itself. It was totally AWSOME!! However we had more to come. The Nazca Lines are just awsome too!! We also had great fun on the sand dune buggy ride!! Not to be forgotten are the Ballestas Islands. The wildlife there is just fantastic! All in all, a brilliant holiday!!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were a couple of inspirational moments. Finally getting to the top of Dead Woman's Pass, which is only the first pass on the trail, but at 13,776ft it was amazing!! Obviously Machu Pichu is the other. Our first sighting of it at the Sun Gate, was just awsome!!

What did you think of your group leader?

Carlos, our leader was just about the best leader we could have had. He is so passionate about his Incan history, and so knowledgable, we felt as though we were living amongst them. I have had a long held passion for ancient people's, and really felt a connection!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepaired for the altitude. It is the first trip I have done at altitude, and although I am a fit 67yr old, and I've done several trips in hilly and mountainous regions, I found it tough, even though you spend several days aclimatising.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Inca Trail Titicaca and Nazca

This was an abosolutely amazing trip. The guide couldn't have been more attentive or knowledgeable in any way, he was fantastic. From the time we got to the airport in Lima to the time we got back there at the end of 2 weeks, we did not have a dull moment. All the hotels were really good and very comfortable. The food was excellent even when we were camping the chefs did an excellent job in making sure we had the right food for the amount of exercise we were doing. Flying over the Nazca Lines was amazing and a sight you should not miss while you are there. Lake Titicaca was fasinating, especially the people on the reed islands. This is a trip not to miss.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Near the end of the Inca Trail is the Sun Gate, when you walk through there you suddenly have your first sighting of Machu Pichu which is stunning. You suddenly realise that this is what you came for and you will never see another sight like it. Amazing.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our Group Leader was called Carlos and he was fantastic. He could not have been more helpful. He was very passionate about his country and the history behind the Incas which in turn made him very knowledgable. He looked after us very well.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

My only advice would be to make sure you have good walking boots and take walking poles, even if you don't normally use them (I don't), they are a great help. Most of all enjoy it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I've done two trips now with this company and I hope to do many more, both experiences have been amazing.

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

Amazing experience, loved every minute of it :-)

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The inca trek and all making it past dead women's pass was definitely the highlight - we worked together as a really supportive team with the encouragement and humour of our wonderful tour guide Maritza to keep us going! The scenery was absolutely stunning, and it was cleverly organised so we rarely came across other tourists until the last day. Food in camp was amazing - restaurant standard (albeit on steel plates!) and the group really bonded over entertaining evenings in the dining tent. Flying over the Nazca Lines was also an experience not to be missed, probably the only way to appreciate the vastness of the lines and the scale of it all.

What did you think of your group leader?

Maritza was amazing - I've done a few tours now with different companies, and she was by far the best leader I've ever had. Really knowledgeable and passionate about her culture, but very sociable and humorous too and somehow kept our motley group in order! Really lovely lady generally - a little Peruvian star!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for feeling the altitude when you fly up to Lake Titicaca - but don't panic, it does subside. Take some warm clothes for the evening in the inca trek (and lots of spare clothes so you have clean things when you get back!). Walking poles were invaluable for me - and I think everyone in the group used them at some point. Oh and on a point of complete vanity - dry shampoo is fab for avoiding greasy locks!!! The flight over the Nazca lines is a great experience and would definitely recommend. Also the trip to the ballestas islands - most of us went and all really enjoyed. Otherwise - just go for it! you won't regret it!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Enjoy!!!!

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

An excellent adventure. Spectacular and diverse landscape, ancient and modern culture, and a superb trekking work-out, all in one colourful and action-packed odyssey.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The Andean scenery on the Moonstone Trek was stunning, especially on the third day as we descended towards the Sacred Valley. Unexpectedly coming across the ruin of an Inca Temple in that high and isolated place, in the shadow of the beautiful snow-capped Mount Veronica was truly evocative.  

What did you think of your group leader?

Our lovely group leader, Flaminia, is one of the best I've ever had the pleasure to travel with - knowledgable, helpful and patient. Her guided tour of Machu Picchu was particularly excellent.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be very careful with what you eat and drink, and you should have no health problems. Be prepared for blistering heat, near-freezing night time temperatures, and rain. Don't be put off by the long days spent in the 'bus - the scenery is spectacular and ever-changing.  Take the optional flight over the Nazca lines if you can - trust me, this is the only way to see them. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Probably one of the most fascinating and varied of my many adventures - thoroughly recommended.

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

Great, well organised trip- everything went nice and smoothly

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Finally arriving at the Machu Picchu guard house having completed 4 days of walking through the mountains and just soaking up the sublime view.

What did you think of your group leader?

Really helpful and calm, but organised and kept everything flowing with no issues. Knowledgeable and friendly too

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The Inca trail gets cold at night- make sure you have a good sleeping bag (warm in minuses), walking poles were surprisingly useful.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

The most amazing experience shared with such great people with many wonderful memories.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Looking down over the monster of a climb we had all successfully completed, sitting at the top of Dead womens pass and taking in one of the most breathtaking views I have ever seen.

What did you think of your group leader?

Carlos was fantastic. He always talked with great passion and enthusiasm and he never failed to make things fun and interesting.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take your walking poles!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Our porters on the Inca trail where amazing. The amount of equipment they carried over a trek that I found challenging with just a little day pack was so impressive. The food that was cooked for us on the trek was outstanding. It kept us all going!!!

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

A totally wicked full-to-the brim holiday.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The whole group making it to the top of Dead Women's Pass, and all the way to the Sun Gate. The view from the Sun Gate down to Macchu Picchu was surreal - but well worth all the effort! Seeing how everyday people in Peru live gave me much more insight than a "normal" holiday would have done.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader Carlos was absolutely brilliant! He looked after us perfectly, giving us enough freedom when we needed some space, but always being there if we needed any advice or help. He also tailored our trip to perfection, and was able to "read" the wishes of the group. A very good asset for Exodus to have!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't worry too much about the altitude. The aclimatisation days (and advice to stay off alcohol!) work a treat, even if some of the walking has to be done at a slower rate than you may be used to...

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I had an incredible holiday - perfect in the amount of activity and "off" time. The camping on the Inca Trail was good fun, and the food delicious - how can two men achieve that with just a double ring calor gas stove? The complimentary activities (for me, the Trail was the main draw) were interesting and fun, meaning, unfortunately,  the time flew by. A great holiday that I thoroughly recommend!

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

This trip was all I hoped for and so much more!  The Inca ruins were spine tingling throughout the adventure. Daily fabulous experiences.  So much to talk about; so many awe inspiring scenes.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Lake Titicaca and the reed islands; Saqsayhuaman; Tambomachay; Raqchi;Dead Woman's Pass; Machu Picchu; Ballesteras Islands.  All breathtaking and all " wow " moments.  

What did you think of your group leader?

Our guide, Karlos, was knowledgeable, organised and so hard working with all his focus being to make this the best experience for all of us in the group which brought our diverse group very much together.  Excellent chap who brought out the best in his support groups too from porters to drivers.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared - physically and emotionally.   Also remember it is a developing country and there will be problems with plumbing and toilets.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Peru and the Inca Trail

A great trip with excellent company. Although there was a lot of travelling - and we were warned beforehand - the sights were terrific from the start, from the first boat trip, flying over the Nascar Lines, Cusco, not showering for 3 days on the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca. Without doubt getting to the end of the trail and reaching Machu Picchu was the pinnacle. As with all these journeys a lot has to be said about the group and in this case it was one of the best I've been with.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu for the first time.

What did you think of your group leader?

Dennis Dolmos was excellent throughout. He was knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, making sure he was around for anyone who required anything from him. His recommendations were always good and we were all happy to take him up on them.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Ignore the trip notes on currency. The US$ is widely accepted in Lima, however this is not the case anywhere else and soles will be required. They are fairly easy to get at ATMs.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

The trip exceeded our expectations.  We enjoyed every minute and so much interest and so many contrasts made two weeks seem twice as long.  The trip notes only give a taster of what is in store.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The trek along the Inca Trail was amazing.  The scenery, the exotic vegetation of the cloud forest and the many Inca ruins along the way all contributed to the anticipation and excitement of reaching the Gate of the Sun and our first sight of Machu Picchu.  We were not disappointed! The Peruvian people were so cheerful and uncomplaining, especially or porters and drivers.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our leader, Fabrizzio, was brilliant.  He was extremely efficient, very knowledeable, patient and friendly.  Thanks to his excellent organisation, everything worked like clockwork.  He worked hard to make sure that everyone got the most enjoyment out of the trip.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do it!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

Review by Angela not GraemeThis was a trip I've always wanted to do and it lived up to my expectations. It was an excellent trip which was very well organised and enabled us to see the varied landscapes of Peru and learn about the Peruvian culture. I am not a camper so was particularly impressed with the camping part of the trip. The porters were excellent and took such good care of us. I couldn't believe the super standard of the food, you even got woken up with a cup of tea and got afternoon tea at 5pm. It was also great getting a hot bowl of water to wash at the beginning and end of the day.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking the Inca trail and seeing Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate. Despite seeing many photos previously I wasn't prepared for the hugeness of the site Amazing food whilst camping Riding in the dune buggy and sliding down the sand dunes Seeing the Humboldt penguins in Ballesta Isla Talking to the Peruvian people Travelling with a great group of people

What did you think of your group leader?

Fabrizzio was an excellent guide, very friendly and very caring. He has a very laid back attitude but is extremely well organised. Fabrizzio was very concerned for our well-being and ensured that we drank plenty of water and rested well and always checked how we were doing particularly when people had been unwell but he was never obtrusive. He was clearly very proud of his county and shared his knowledge with us. He also took us to some excellent restaurants. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

 Things I would have liked to know: If you fly from Lima to Puno be prepared for feeling extremely tired for the first couple of days even if you take it easy and also be prepared for headaches, almost everyone in our group suffered headaches for the first 2 or 3 days. Wear waterproof trousers on the boat trip to Ballestas Island - the sea was very choppy and we all got wet - it was like a theme park water ride. Do the Dune Buggy optional excursion and sand boarding it's great fun and excellent value but don't put sun cream immediately before or you'll get plastered in sand. The long coach trips are inevitable and the roads can be very winding making it difficult to read so audio books or Ipod will help pass the time. We had someone who knew lots of games so we were kept entertained. A pack of cards might also be useful particularly when you are camping.  Take dollars and change into soles - you will need both, your guide will advise how much to change and there are many opportunites.   If you are travelling with United Airlines via Houston they do not do vegetarian meals on the Houston to Lima stretch so make sure you buy something at the airport if you're likely to get hungry.  If you don't like your room for any reason politely ask to change as the guide and the hotel are keen to ensure you are happy. Take a swimming costume for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes. Towels can be hired and you can buy soap and shampoo very cheaply. It's just what you need after 4 days trekking and they even serve you a beer in the pool - heaven! There was also a pool in the Nazca hotel. Poles were a must for coming down the many steps on the Inca trail.  Hire a sleeping bag then you only have it for the days of the trek, you also get a thermorest mattress and the sleeping bag is a four season so keeps you snug and warm.  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you're thinking of doing this trip go ahead and do it. If you enjoy walking and are reasonably fit you'll be able to cope with the trek. There is no need to rush as there is nothing to do at the campsite so take your time, enjoy the views and put one foot in front of the other and you'll get there. I am scared of heights so had some concerns about edges but there was no need the paths are wide and there aren't any exposed edges. 

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

One of the best trips in the world. Well organized and conducted. Spectacular views of the Andes. A great way to learn about the cultures of Peru - Inca, pre-Inca and current.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Surviving Dead Woman's pass and of course the view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate. The sunset and then sunrise on the mountains as seen from the camp at the top of Phuyupatamarca Pass was spectacular. Dining on "Canadian" trout on Taquile Island in Lake Titicaca was a treat.

What did you think of your group leader?

Rene is passionate about the history and cultures of Peru and was eager to share his knowledge. He is well organized and handled whatever challenges came up with ease. We would enjoy any trip with him. Wilson was also very helpful on the trek.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take it slow. There is plenty of time and it is the best way to avoid altitude sickness. We are mid 50's and were not too far behind our younger friends. This trip's pace of 5 days is much better than other tours with only 4 days. Use poles - the steps can be brutal.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Take the optional tour of the Inca ruins around Cuzco and also the Ballestas Islands. The Nasca Lines have to be seen from the air if possible. We would use Exodus again but we don't understand their airport transfer and duffel bag policies for tour members from outside of the U.K. Most of our group were not from England (so had to pay for airport transfers and provide their own duffel bags for the trek), but Rene was kind enough to arrange our transfers and lend us stuff sacks.

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

One of the best holidays/experiences I have enjoyed to date.Perceived Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail to be over hyped and becoming commercialised. A pleasant surprise  to find exactly the opposite. Peru is a beautiful country, the Andes mountains and High Plains are spectacular viewing. A packed holiday adventure, get up and do it. You will have memories which last forever. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Ending the Inca Trail and first views of Machu Picchu were incredible. The approach through the sun gate and looking down on the city is one of the most marvellous sights in the world.  Viewing the Nazca lines from the air in a small aeroplane (it's the only/best way to see them). This optional trip is currently advised by the British Foreign Office as a "do not do", due to a crash a few years ago. But I have to say I found the experience fine in all aspects (pilots, aircraft, service). You make your own choice.......... Definitely a fantastic experience. From a fun perspective, you cannot keep a smile (or scream) off your face on the dune buggy experience. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Words are not enough. I have been on several treks/experience holidays, Fabrizzio was the best!!! Patient, caring, supportive, friendly, just keep applying the adjectives. Can I please have him on all my future holidays? A few examples: he served all our meals on trek, he was always first up, he listened to everyone (never mind how insane their question), he helped everyone, he  made sure everyone had what they wanted, when they wanted it. He didn't try and control the group, but he made sure the group functioned.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Most of it has been said in other reviews. Take at least one pair of shorts, swimwear, a good sunhat. Take good walking gear, prepare for all weathers (a problem I know, but we had all weathers on the trek and through the rest of the holiday.) Some hotels struggle with the provision of hot water, plugs for sinks, towels are rarely in great supply. But generally they are clean and functional. Take currency in a mix of Sols and US dollars. My advice 20/80%. The food in Peru is very good, both local dishes and regular international dishes are always available. You will not starve! 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Be prepared for a lot of travelling! The basic journeys to and from Peru are long and tiring.Even more so if you are unfortunate enough to fly with United Airlines (my advice DON'T, ask for alternative routes/carriers) Overland journeys in Peru (Cusco to Nazca, Paracas etc ) are long, coach journeys. I think we covered 650KM in 2 or 3 days. Take a good book (Kindle). Exodus management of the logistics involved is superb. BUT it's all worth it. This is an opportunity to see MOST of what Peru has to offer. You can sleep back home! 

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

Flights a DISASTER.  Why on earth you use United Airways I can't think.  Besides being regularly late there were 2 mechanical problems.  After having recovered from our outward journey and feeling positive, we then had to suffer further problems.  (Also the cabin crews generally were not particularly pleasant.)  Saying that, the time in Peru was very good.  The only down side was the long days travelling but I know there is no way around that.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The trek was by far the best part of the holiday, and the superb views driving through the Andes.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader, Fab(rizzio) was brilliant.  He dealt with everything we threw at him, all organisation was  excellent.  At times some of it appeared beyond his actual remit.  He also coped (better than the rest of the group) with a couple of awkward members of the group.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for the long road journeys.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Only to say that the representative who met us at Lima when we were a day late, was not the sort of person we needed to see.  Instead of being supportive and assuring all was OK, he told us (as though it was our faults) that we would have to pay for our night's accommodation and the rebooked flight the following day.

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

The best trip ever!  Magnificent trek, despite heavy rain on day 2 ... the travails just added to the sense of achievement on reaching the Sun Gate.  Food on trek unbelievably good - better than we eat at home - and loads of it.  Superb guides at all stages, and the trail porters were magnificent - camp set up for us before we arrived, tea and hot water for washing delivered to our tents - like having a personal butler!  The encouragement of the guides was truly humbling, and if any of us flagged they were there to give support. We also saw a lot of Peru, and had lots of new experiences, including dune buggies at Ica and sand-boarding for the more adventurous. This is a fun-packed trip of a lifetime - we loved every minute of it ...

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

talking to Fabrizzio, Hernan and Lizbett, our wonderful trail guides, about their pride in their Inca heritage ... wonderful first evening meal on trek - asparagus soup, stuffed trout fillets, with rice and al dente mixed vegetables, followed by bananas flambeed in brandy with hot chocolate sauce - worth going for the food alone!

What did you think of your group leader?

Fabrizzio was experienced, knowledgeable, hard-working, encouraging - all you could expect from a guide and so much more!  I had a chest infection and initially doubted my ability to complete the trek but he was hugely supportive and encouraging, and inspired me with the confidence to do it comfortably.  He was also very good at ensuring group cohesion while giving everyone the chance to do their own thing - never once did we feel regimented to do anything. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't hesitate to book ... it's a great trek, and lots more besides.  Take swimming gear for Aguas Calientes and the hotel in Nazca ...

Is there anything else you would like to add?

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

Way to go Exodus! effortless, stressfree travelling! (apart from the Inca Trail that is)  I cannot believe we saw so much of the country (and learnt so much as well), anti plano, mountains, desert, coast, off shore islands and rainforest. An absolutely perfect holiday! Our guides were brilliant, we were met at airports and taken back to them as well.  Nothing was too much trouble.  Will definately travel Exodus again.  Many Thanks

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The Inca Trail which was the reason for going. What an experience and fortunately the weather was good. however second would be learning about the anti plano and Lake Titicaca and meeting some of the local Imara Indians.  So many memories i could go on forever.

What did you think of your group leader?

Carlos was excellent and very attentive. We were a little nervous i think at first and he sensed this and kept us entertained.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Use Exodus, read the trip notes and enjoy!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

just a very big thank you for a holiday of a lifetime!

INCA TRAIL, TITICACA & NAZCA

This was my 1st Exodus trip and I would definatly go on another.  The trip was really well organised and I loved every minute of it.  There is a lot of travelling, but it's worth it and the treck was an amazing experience. An expensive holiday, with some expensive extras, but the prices on the tickets justify the price Exodus charges.  The only negative was probems with the connections onthe way home.  For anyone wanting to do the Inca Trail the extras on this trip are really worth the extra time.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The trail was the reason I booked it and I wasn't let down by it.  Amazing views

What did you think of your group leader?

Really good.  Very knowledgable, could answer all questions and very patient

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do it

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Inca Trail Titicaca & Nazca holiday

A fantastic and comprehensive tour covering the essentials of Peru. Well organised with a manageable sized group.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Day 4 of the Inca Trail trek arriving through the Sun Gate for the first glimpse of Mach Picchu.

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent! A thoroughly knowledgeable and very sociable leader.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be aware that this particular trip has long periods of coach travel.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The culture of 'tipping' in Peru is alive and well! In addition to the advice in the trip notes, budget for the same amour again.