BOLIVIAN DAY HIKING ADVENTURE
/ JAN 24 – FEB 6, 2017
/
AT# 17
Join us for a truly unique trip to a country largely
unexplored by Americans. This adventure is designed
for hikers with moderate trail experience. The day hikes
are not overly long or difficult – instead they are diverse
and add tremendous insight into South America´s most
indigenously populated country. This is a mountain
lovers paradise and an opportunity to connect with one
of the friendliest and earth connected societies on the
planet.
TOURyDESCRIPTION
Bolivia is the Tibetan America, only replace Buddhism with Incas, Quechua and Aymara and you´ll feel very much
part of a world reknown high altitude culture. From the immense Andean Peaks to frigid, barren salt flats to
steamy, tropical jungles Bolivia is a geographical wonderland. On top of it all, the landlocked Bolivians, over 50% of
them of pure indigenous blood are fantastic, generous hosts. AMC is excited to offer this rare glimpse of Bolivia´s
most inspiring highlights. Classified as a hiking and discovery trip we aim to explore most of our destinations on
foot, leaving few stones unturned while at the same time, come away adorned with knowledge of local history,
culture, arts, gastronomy, language and glimpses of everyday
life for Bolivians of the great Andes range.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Our short window of travel confines us to what Bolivia can
offer without long, extensive road journeys. Our itinerary
focuses on the top destinations for AMC style travel. As a
result, we´ve selected a blend of experiences that are diverse,
interchanging and unforgettably scenic.
LA PAZ – The bustling markets of the world´s highest capital
flanked by 6000m snow peaks, will open your eyes!
SORATA & THE CORDILLERA REAL – Bolivia´s hiking and
nature capital set in wonderful natural landscapes and a lush
valley.
COCACABANA & LAKE TITICACA – The lakeside sun city at
3600m reflects an imaginary light and of course, Inca history.
LA ISLA DEL SOL (INCA ISLAND OF SUN) – Hiking island
pathways where the Inca Legend was born and age old
traditions still exist.
THE AMAZON BASIN (RURRENABAQUE) – Amazonia´s most bio diverse zone is a must see! We explore the
jungles and pampas wetlands from the comfort of our eco lodge!
COMFORT,hPHYSICALhEXERTIONhANDhTRIPhPACE
We designed the tour to accommodate those wishing to hike on a near daily basis. It is a hiking trip, but with
average altitudes peaking over 3000 meters and more, we take it easy! Maximum height reached will be about
4000 meters, but hiking will be optional on that day. The day hikes selected are not too strenuous or long nor do
they enter snow or ice covered high alpine zones. They are safe and easily accessible walks for all levels. Our main
walking area, Sorata is below 3000 meters and the lakeside hikes at Titicaca are popular day walks between
villages. We are very particular about safety management in high altitude zones and we choose both locations and
season of travel that makes the entire journey pleasant. The visit to the Amazon region at the end will be a
highlight after the week spent in the highlands. Here we do jungle walks, flora and fauna explorations and boat
trips combined at only 500m altitude.
Accommodation throughout is based on basic ´group travel´ standard (not substandard hostels or backpacker
inns). However, Bolivia is very much behind other parts of the world with tourism infrastructure. Road networks
are in poor condition, bus transport is ´rugged´ and we optimize our slower than usual travel pace by enjoying
more of the scenery! Bolivia cannot be rated against other countries when it receives few group travellers
compared to many destinations. From a trip ´comfort´ perspective, please consider this a precautionary note prior
to booking...
ITINERARY
DAY 1 24 Jan- Fly from USA
DAY 2 25 Jan - ARRIVAL LA PAZ / Acclimatization
Arrival and airport transfer to your hotel in La Paz. Today is
about rest and acclimatization. Plenty of liquids and taking it
easy are necessary today to adjust to high altitude. (Airport
elevation 4058m and we drive down to La Paz at 3660m). Travel
time from the airport to hotel by private shuttle is approximately
25 minutes. This evening we have a group orientation dinner
with your AMC leaders and Matt Butler of Adventurebug
Worldwide - the trip outfitter. Night La Paz Hotel Rosario
(http://www.gruporosario.com/hotels-grupo-rosario/hotel-rosario-la-paz) or Similar / Dinner
included.
DAY 3 26 Jan - LA PAZ CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS
Today our local guide leads a gentle orientation tour of Bolivia´s
greatest cultural melting pot, La Paz. Seated in a deep basin and
back dropped by the triple peaked Mt. Illimani (6402m) La Paz
packs in over a million people – more than 50% indigenous in
origin. From slums to chic and a vast array of languages and
cultures to boot it´s a marvel to experience - especially in regards
to its position as the world´s highest capital! Expect visits to
bustling markets, local museums and the colonial quarter today
– all at a gentle pace to ease you into the elevation and rhythm
of Bolivian life. Night at same hotel La Paz / Breakfast only included
DAY 4 27 Jan - SORATA & THE CORDILLERA REAL
Today travel by private bus and descend 800m offering some
relief from the altitude. Our destination Sorata is described as
Bolivia´s most beautiful natural setting. Set in a lush, forested
valley beneath towering peaks over 6300m, this is Bolivia´s most
popular hiking destination and one of its prettiest rural towns.
Upon arrival we´ll have a light walk in the region to stretch our
legs and visit the town itself on foot. (Elevation 2695 m) Travel
time 4 hours by private coach. Night in Sorata at Guest House
Altai Oasis: http://www.altaioasis.com/home or Hotel Santa
Lucia / breakfast & Dinner included
DAY 5 28 Jan - SORATA & THE CORDILLERA REAL
Today is a hiking day in the wonderful surroundings of Sorata.
We´ll spend most of the day walking right from the town itself –
aiming to arrive at the Gruta de San Pedro Cave with our local
mountain guide. Altitude will be in the range of 2700-3000m.
The pace will be gentle and the footing excellent following a
forestry track for most of the route through beautiful
landscapes. Night in same hotel / Breakfast and Pack Lunch only
included
DAY 6 29 Jan - SORATA & THE CORDILLERA REAL
Another wonderful day of hiking in the Cordillera Real with
our local guide. Depending on how the group feels, we can
select from a variety of routes and elevations. There is
plenty of choice for this day – including a walk to high glacial
lakes (though transfers will be necessary), otherwise walking
in the rolling landscapes of Sorata is rewarding enough –
leaving us time to self-explore the town and mingle with the
regional tribes people. Night in same hotel / Breakfast, Pack
Lunch and Dinner included
DAY 7 30 Jan - COCACABANA / Lake Titicaca
This morning we transfer 2.5 hours by private bus to the
charming lakeside town Cocacabana right near the Peruvian
border (elevation 3820m). This sunny lake shore village
peers straight across the 230km long Lake Titicaca. Here we
find a cluster of attractions such as the Cathedral, open air
markets and Cerro Calvario, a hilltop ´mirador´ offering a
birds-eye view over the entire region. Night at Hotel Rosario
(http://www.gruporosario.com/hotels-grupo-rosario/hotelrosario-lago-titicaca) or similar / Breakfast only included
DAY 8 31 Jan - LAKE TITCACA / Isla del Sol (Hike from Copacabana to Yampupata)
This morning from our hotel we make the scenic shoreline
hike to where the boat takes us to the Isla del Sol – the
birthplace of the Inca culture. Hiking time approximately 4
hours and we pass small Aymarán fishing hamlets and Inca
engravings en route – seeing first hand primitive tribal life
that depend on this magnificent lake. At Yampupata we boat
across the short stretch of water to the island. On the other
side, after visiting the Fuente and Escalera del Inca historic
sites, we can walk to our guest house in Yumani. We’ll spend
the night in comfortable family run Inn. Breakfast, Pack Lunch and Dinner included
DAY 9 1 Feb - LAKE TITCACA / Isla del Sol (Day hikes and cultural visits on the Island)
Today we explore on foot the wonderful network of paths
that connects local villagers and Inca Pilgrims to various
points on the island. A full day of exploring includes visits to
Inca sites, rural hamlets and stunning view points
overlooking the lake and Bolivia´s formidable Andes range.
We will be walking at heights in the range of 3800m but no
extensive climbs. We’ll spend the night in same lodgings as
last night. Breakfast, Pack Lunch and Dinner included
DAY 10 2 Feb - RURRENABAQUE Flight Day
This morning we travel back to La Paz (private bus),
saying adios to the friendly island communities for a
journey over the Andes to the entry point of the
Amazon basin at Rurrenabaque. Largely a travel day,
we drive 4-5 hours to La Paz followed by a 40 minute
flight to the lush Bolivian jungle situated at 552m.
Rurrenbaque is the loveliest village in the Bolivian
lowlands and is adorned with some of the planet´s greatest biodiversity. We have 3 days to visit
the wonderful jungles and pampas waterways of the nearby Alto Madidi National Reserve. We’ll
spend the night in a comfortable Rurrenabaque lodge. Breakfast and Dinner Included
DAY 11 3 Feb - RURRENABAQUE Amazon Basin
Today we set off on safari by vehicle and lightweight
boat that takes us into the jungle regions of the
UNESCO protected Alto Madidi Reserve and the
Pampas del Yacuma protected reserve where we will
stay for 2 in specially designed lodgings. On this
program our indigenous naturalist exposes the group
to a wide variety of flora and the habitats of unique
fauna species, most notably over 1000 bird types,
crocodile, piranha, puma, sloth, monkey, butterflies, insects and much more – including the
elusive 7m long anaconda! Travel will be by foot, canoe and vehicle as we explore a wide range
of natural features in one of the world´s most bio diverse zones. Our overnight accommodation
will be in a comfortable but simple jungle lodge. All meals included
DAY 12 4 Feb - RURRENABAQUE Amazon Basin Safari
Continuation of our jungle and pampas tour as per above.
Opportunities for nocturnal walks and piranha fishing are also on
hand. Same accommodation and all meals included.
DAY 13 5 Feb - RURRENABAQUE Transfer to LA PAZ
Today we aim for an mid-day flight
back to La Paz to guarantee arrival
for either a connecting flight home,
an extension tour to the South
West of Bolivia, or a final night in
La Paz before departing the
following day. We will most likely
have a late afternoon arrival into our hotel, La Paz. Accomodation
in same La Paz hotel as first 2 nights. Breakfast only included.
DAY 14 6 Feb - DEPARTURE HOME
Transfers to airport after breakfast for departure home. Breakfast included.
ABOUT TRAVEL TO BOLIVIA
VISAS AND PASSPORTS
A visa is required for all USA passport holders, please check with Bolivian consular services. Cost for the
VISA was $160 in 2015. Passports must be valid for 6 months or more.
MEDICAL AND HYGIENE
Generally Bolivia is as healthy a country to travel in as any other developing nation. Precautions
however must be taken. Consult your travel clinic for immunizations. Yellow Fever inoculation is
required as well as Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid and boosters for other common immunizations. Malaria is
not considered high risk in Rurrenabaque but as a precaution we recommend the use of prophylactics for
this portion of the journey – as well as mosquito netting, deet and long sleeves. Dengue Fever occurs in
the tropical areas of Bolivia. High Altitude illness is common (short term effects and possible high risk
symptoms) and precautions must be adhered to. If you feel necessary, consult your doctor for pre travel
immunization such as Diamox. Bottled water must be drunk rather than tap water and avoid leafy,
uncooked vegetables and drinks made with ice and local water that has not been boiled.
INTERNAL FLIGHT
The majority of groups travel on Bolivia´s military / commercial company TAM Air or with the more
popular brand, Amaszonia Air. Both airlines have many years experience flying the route between La Paz
and Rurrenabaque in the Amazon Basin. The runway at Rurrenabaque has been improved resulting in a
major increase in flight services and therefore visits to this region. You can visit Amaszonia´s webpage
here: http://www.amaszonas.com
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Bolivia is currently politically stable and there have been no major acts of terrorism or sabotage –
especially related to tourism. Petty crime like wallet snatching or cons to obtain money can occur.
Violent muggings are not common. Respect your group leader´s advice. Road travel has its share of
hazards and we endeavour to ensure our buses and drivers are meeting a high standard of safety.
INTERNET AND TELEPHONE
Many locations in Bolivia (hotels and cafes) advertise internet and Wi-Fi connections. For the most part
connections exist but they are not always consistent. La Paz however and larger centre’s not affected by
alpine terrain, isolation or poor weather do have consistent internet and cell phone services.
International roaming services are available throughout Bolivia – again at the mercy of cell phone tower
locations.
TOUR INCLUSIONS
 12 nights’ accommodation in Tour Group class hotels or guest houses
 Airport transfers in La Paz
 All meals as per itinerary
 Transport on tour that includes private group coach, local bus, 4x4, boat ferries and return air
transfers between La Paz and Rurrenabaque (Amazon Basin).
 Local guides and selected monument entrance fees as per itinerary
 Outfitter trip manager throughout (Matt Butler from Adventurebug Worldwide Ltd.)
 Jungle tour in Rurrenabaque including boat transport, park entrance fees and permits
 Risk assessment profile and evacuation plans for all aspects of your journey
 Medical Evacuation Insurance
 Two AMC Adventure Travel Leaders
PLEASE NOTE – Private travel insurance (including baggage loss and cancellation insurance is the sole
responsibility of the participant. Please ensure your insurance covers you for trekking above 2500
meters (up to 4500 meters).
COSTS NOT COVERED:










Airfare from USA to La Paz, Bolivia and return to U.S.A.(est $1000-1400)
Lunches(4) / dinners(4) and snacks as stated in itinerary
Alcoholic beverages, and dinner drinks
Individual (non-group) excursions and additional lifts, bus, rail, taxis, or car rentals.
Optional day trips.
Passport.
Trip insurance.
Vaccinations your PCP deems necessary
Bolivian Tourist Visa ($160 in 2015)
Tips for Bolivian guides and Transport drivers
.
SAFETY, RISKS AND HAZARDS:
As participant safety is a high priority for all AMC-sponsored events, procedures and policies have
been developed to attempt to limit participant risk. Participants are expected to work with the leaders
to reduce risks and make the experience successful for all. Participants should be aware that there are
risks associated with outdoor adventure activities, including but not limited to adverse weather and
environmental conditions, remote locations of our trips, and transportation in vehicles, on foot, by boat,
or on a bike. Aside from any personal medical problems, participants should be aware of the
possibilities of altitude sickness, bug bites, dehydration, sun burn and other heat or cold related
problems. You should regularly use sun screen, take care to be adequately hydrated and bring water on
all day trips. Please carefully read and sign the AMC Participant Acknowledgement and Assumption of
Risks and Release and Indemnity Agreement and contact us if you have any questions. Participants’
understanding of these risks and adherence to our policies and procedures can contribute to making this
experience rewarding for everyone.
RESERVING A PLACE AND PAYMENT SCHEDULE:
The land cost of the trip is $3025.00, plus estimated airfare of $1,000 to $1,400. To reserve your place,
please contact the trip leader or co leader for an application, the Confidential Medical Form and the
Acknowledgment & Assumption of Risks & Release and Indemnity Agreement. These forms should be
completed and sent to the Leader along with a check for your deposit of $1,000.00 made out to:
Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC). $100.00 of this initial $1,000.00 deposit is a non-refundable
administration fee. Once we receive your application and other forms and have approved you for the
trip, we’ll send you additional information on the trip, including planned hikes, equipment lists, and
travel tips. The maximum number of participants is 18, so apply early to reserve your place. Rooming
based on twin share where possible but some triple and quad share may be necessary on Island and in
Jungle Lodge (pending final numbers)
PAYMENT 2 DUE:
Oct 15, 2016
$2025.00
CANCELLATION POLICY:
If you cancel after being accepted for the trip, $100 is non-refundable, but if you cancel after August 1,
2016 minimally $200 is nonrefundable, if (and only if) another person takes your place. We will
establish a waiting list. Should another person replace you, you will be charged only the $200
cancellation fee. However, your cancellation shall not raise the cost of the trip to any of the participants
or the leaders. Thus, if you cancel and are not replaced, you will forfeit the $200 plus the per capita
expenses already incurred and any other unpaid expenses for which the trip cannot obtain a refund.
You may forfeit the entire trip fee. Flight tickets once purchased become your property and are
generally non-refundable. We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance. Information on
a company recommended by the AMC will be sent to you.
PLEASE NOTE: The price of the AMC Adventure Travel trip is given in good faith based on current tariffs
and rates and is subject to change. Any tariff, exchange rate increases will be passed on to
participants.
Conversely if the minimum number of participants does not sign up, the leaders reserve the right to
cancel the trip and refund the amounts paid. If the trip is full, we can put your name on a waiting list, or
return your deposit.
AIR COSTS (ESTIMATED $1000-1400):
Leaders will explore the best possible options for air travel. You will receive notification when we are
aware of a good fare. For this trip we estimate a range of $1000-1400. We will assist you in any way to
make your reservations, but you should not make any booking on your own without consulting the
leaders. Once you purchase tickets, they are wholly owned by you. It is your responsibility to get
yourself to our hotel in La Paz, Bolivia if your flight does not arrive in time to meet our chartered bus
from the arrival airport. The leaders only provide transportation when you arrive at the airport by the
time we specify.
FLIGHTS:
The reservation of the flight is your responsibility. Once a trip is a “GO” (there are enough
participants to run the trip), we will let you know and provide you with our flight recommendations for
transfer to La Paz, Bolivia.
Trip insurance is recommended, since an illness, accident or death in the family can interfere with
your plans. Trip insurance can be obtained through your travel agent or the leaders will provide you with
choices of approved trip insurance companies.
AMC Adventure Travel trips are led by volunteers on a non-profit basis. Any monies left over after trip
expenses are covered will be refunded to the participants. As leaders our goals for the group are to have
fun, stretch your skills, and savor a foreign culture at reasonable cost and in the company of other
adventurers with similar interests. We encourage your individual contributions, cooperation and good
humor to enrich the group’s experience. We expect you to participate as part of a group and abide by
the leaders’ decisions, and work towards the group having a good time. Be prepared to help your fellow
hikers and spend time with other participants on the trip. In doing so, you will enjoy the trip to the
maximum.
YOUR LEADERS:
LEADER: GINETTE BEAUDOIN
Ginette has been a member of the AMC since 1988 and has led several day and weekend trips in the
White Mountains of NH, as well as various parts of Maine. She has lead trips to Austrian Alps with Don
Parker in July of 2011, with Jenni Blumenthal in August of 2012 and with Anna Panszczyk in July and
August of 2014. She has also lead multiple Adventure travel trips to Yosemite national Park for the
AMC. She has participated in numerous AMC Major Excursions to Switzerland and Austria, involving
hiking and cross country skiing. She has hiked in the Stubai valley as part of a 2006 Major Excursion and
hiked to 20 high Alpine Huts throughout Austria, Germany and Switzerland. She has hiked the NH 4000
footers. Her interests include hiking, photography, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, travel,
information volunteer for AMC and introducing others to outdoor activities.
ADDRESS:
PHONE:
EMAIL ADDRESS:
66 Graham Street, Biddeford, Maine 04005
(207) 294-6302, (207) 590-4431
ginette4000@yahoo.com
CO-LEADER: ANNA PANSZCZYK
Anna is a Boston Chapter INTRO (AMC) Leader. Anna has co lead AMC Adventure Travel trips to
Yosemite National Park, Minnesota and Morocco. Anna leads trips in the White Mountains and most
recently led an excursion to Ghost Ranch in New Mexico and to Mt Rainier and Olympic National Parks
in Washington. Anna spends part of each summer backpacking as a Sierra Club participant. This is in
addition to trips that she takes to all corners of the world. Anna has recently completed SOLO Advanced
Wilderness First Aid course.
ADDRESS:
22 Alfred Rd, Arlington, MA 02474
PHONE: (781)-648-2492; (617)-429-2175
EMAIL ADDRESS: annatp13@verizon.net
SPECIALIST TOUR OPERATOR / ADVENTUREBUG WORLDWIDE LTD.
Matt Butler will be the specialist guide and logistics coordinator. He was born and raised in Canada and
was a former competitive cross country skier, competing at the National and International level and as a
non-competitive forerunner for the Canadian Olympic Team in Calgary 1988. During his University years
and beyond, he worked 9 seasons with Canada´s Provincial & National Park service’s – the last 5 postings
were at the Columbia Icefield Center in Jasper National Park where he designed and led interpretive
guide programs. He also worked in Public Safety Operations for Parks Canada and contributed to
Educational programs and Park conservation efforts in relation to glaciology. He later lived and worked
as a teacher in Malawi, China, Great Britain and Spain before retiring from the profession and returning
to his roots - guiding and outoor pursuits leadership training. Matt is the co-founder of Adventurebug
Worldwide – an active holiday and training company as well as co-founder for Rifcom (www.rifcom.org),
a non-profit charity that works with disadvantaged youths in rural Morocco. He has published a hiking
guide book for Spain and when not leading trips, he enjoys making music, surfing, cycling and sharing his
home on the Mediterranean in Andalucia, Spain with his English wife Jules, their 3 children, a ´bocadillo´
loving dog named Ruby and 2 cats.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Sincerely,
Ginette Beaudoin and Anna Panszczyk