General Packing Theory:

This tour consists of car camping with hotel stays. All personal and group gear travels with the van during daily activities and meets us in camp or at the hotel. One bag to pack all your personal gear in is ideal. We recommend a big duffel bag. Two bags work fine as well. Though we want you to travel comfortably, try to pack within reason - there is limited space in the van. The following list shows what ATAC provides and what we recommend you bring for your comfort. You may decide on some changes on the list to fit your personal needs. Please contact us if you have any question about what you should bring.

· We supply 2-3 person 4 season free-standing tents with vestibules for if you would like to camp. If you intend to bring your own tent, please let us know prior to the trip. There are a couple nights that have the option to camp or staying in cabins.

· White water river rafting / canyoning clothing - farmer john wetsuit, harness, spray jacket and life jacket, helmet and all rafting equipment.

· All volcano climbing equipment - small pack, plastic mountaineering boots with crampons, ice axe, and gaiters.

· Fly-fishing gear and boats. Mountain bikes with helmets.

· Eating utensils - knife, fork, spoon, plate.

· Community emergency first aid kit - our kit is thorough including Epi-Pens, ibuprofen, athletic tape, etc.

· Toilet paper.

The following ideas may help you while packing your personal gear. Most hiking clothing can double as cycling, canyoning and rafting clothing. We find that layering is the best method for keeping warm with the minimal amount of extra gear. The summer weather in the Andes is unpredictable. There can be blazing sun – 90 degrees to 35 degrees with pouring rain and wind. Though it is very unlikely to rain the entire trip, it is best to prepare for it. In general we recommend against cotton clothes because it doesn’t dry very quickly, though it can be comfortable for around town casual wear. Plan to be in town for 4 or 5 nights.




· Passport and plane tickets!

· Shoes - you will need shoes for hiking and white water rafting as well as for bicycling. We recommend bringing two pairs. One pair for hiking and around town, and a pair of sandals like Tevas or Chacos. Check out ‘Footwear tips’ below.

· Rain gear - avoid ponchos and plastic. Look for sealed seams and fitted wrist and leg cuffs. Rain gear is used for protection from wind and rain showers. One rain jacket is essential; rain pants are important for around camp, while on the bicycle or hiking.

· Long underwear – one or two (shirts and pants) sets of polypropylene, capilene or fleece to keep you warm when wet.

· Fleece sweaters – one or two mid-weight capilene layers to wear while cycling, under your paddling top while white water rafting, or while hiking. Another sweater for camp.

· Socks – at least two pairs of thin to mid-weight socks for cycling, two pairs of thick wool or synthetic blend socks for camp and hiking. Polypropylene or wool worn with recreational sandals protect your feet and keep them warm while white water rafting. Some people prefer an additional thin polypropylene layer under thicker socks while hiking. We recommend against cotton socks because they don’t dry out quickly and can be damp the following day.

· Warm hat – one or two made of either fleece or wool. It is best to have something that fits comfortably under your bike helmet.

· Shorts - loose, nylon or fast drying material (i.e. synthetics- NOT COTTON) that allows freedom of movement and does not chafe.

· Bathing suit - to swim in, lounge in hot springs and to wear underneath the wetsuit while rafting.

· Oversized, loose, soft clothing - we recommend nylon pants and shirts for hiking and camp. They are quick drying, lightweight and pack small.

· Hat or baseball cap - baseball caps conveniently fit under the helmet used for rafting.

· Sunglasses - with retainer to prevent from losing them in the rapids while white water rafting. Glasses rated for 100% UV protection and neutral shades are recommended.

· Sleeping bag - rated to at least freezing temperatures with either synthetic or down insulation. Though it most likely won't snow, it can freeze at night. We recommend bringing one if you would like to camp any of the nights. Sleeping pad - a 'thermarest' or lightweight thin foam. Again, there are options some of the nights to sleep outside…

· Tent – though we have our own tents, you may choose to bring your own. In this case, be sure that it is good for at least a heavy rain and some wind, i.e. a 3 season tent. This is only necessary if you intend to camp.

· Towel - small pack towel for washing.

· Day pack or fanny pack - for use while hiking if needed. Camelbaks double for packs.

· Camera.

· Headlamp or flashlight - we recommend the smaller LED styles.

· Eyeglasses or contact lenses - lens cleaner for contacts and an extra pair of prescription glasses are recommended.

· Ziploc bags - for convenient storage.

· Biodegradable soap and shampoo - small containers are recommended. Toothpaste, toothbrush, dental floss, feminine hygiene products, and other personal items.

· Waterproof sunscreen and lip balm - SPF 15 or higher.

· Medications - a double prescription is recommended; one to be given to the trip leader for safe keeping. Diabetics should bring a glucose monitoring kit. If you have allergies, bring your own allergy medicine.

· Epi-Pen or Ana-Kit - Individuals at risk for severe allergic reactions to insect bites or food must bring at least one. Though we carry these items, we encourage a backup.

· Book, journal, and pen.

How much is enough or too much?
Pack for your personal needs. You should be prepared for the temperature extremes of the Andes. It is difficult for us to advise you of exact quantities (i.e. 2 shorts, 3 shirts, etc.), as everyone has different needs. Our guests are amazed at how much they can do without. On the other hand, if yours is the one trip a year with rain everyday, you'll be glad you were prepared. Due to space limitations, please be aware of the unnecessary item. Remember, you will have to pack it up every day and then unpack it.

Valuables: Leave them at home! We recommend that you put essential items (wallet, credit cards, traveler's checks, passport) in small waterproof baggies (Ziplocs) and store them in the bottom of your personal bag with your clothing. Store exposed film and medications in small waterproof baggies (Ziplocs) rolled in your clothing - then pack in your personal bag. You may want some cash on you for emergencies or gratuities.

Beverages: Alcoholic beverages (beer, wine and pisco) are supplied, though if you would like to bring a hard alcohol treat, please bring it in a plastic container - NOT GLASS.

Items to keep in your fanny pack / day pack while hiking:

* Water Bottle.
* Rain Gear.
* Mid-weight capilene sweater and long underwear.
* Hat
* Camera.
* Sunglasses.
* Sunscreen

It is best to purchase your shoes well in advance to allow proper break-in time. Tastes, opinions and fit vary with each person; therefore, it is difficult for us to recommend one specific shoe over another. Remember, the trails can be slippery.

Hiking: Depending on the trail and weather conditions, plan for up to six hours of travel on uneven muddy terrain with loose footing and exposure to the elements. Plan for your shoes to get wet. We recommend a well-built hiking shoe with arch support and substantial traction. If you prefer more ankle support, then bring lightweight synthetic or leather hiking boots.

White Water Rafting: Neoprene booties with tread work well (we supply them). Neoprene socks with tennis shoes are another option. Recreational sport sandals work well on the boats as well as in camp. They allow your feet to dry quickly and provide warmth when used with polypropylene or wool socks. Choose your shoe according to your personal preference. Aqua socks are NOT recommended. Rafting is an optional activity on this tour.

When purchasing a sport sandal pay particular attention to the fit, how much support it offers, the quality of the fastenings and how well the straps are secured to the sole. Sand and water tends to work against velcro closures. Cheaper sport sandals commonly fall apart. Be sure to allow proper break-in time.

Note: If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.