FAQs
Q: Are flights included in the cost of my trip?
International flights to and from the destination are not included in the program fee. If joining the Amazon Extension, Discover Corps will arrange the flight from Cuzco to Puerto Maldonado.
Q: What does ‘double occupancy’ mean? Does that mean the trip prices covers two people?
Double Occupancy refers to the accommodations (double room). The program fee you see on each trip page is per person.
We welcome solo travelers on all trips, and there is no additional fee unless a single room upgrade is requested. We can room you with another traveler of the same gender for no extra cost.
Q: I have special dietary requirements – will that be an issue?
In Peru, we are able to accommodate most dietary restrictions such as vegan, vegetarian and gluten free. We do our best to accommodate all diets, but we do recommend you still inquire with a Discover Corps Travel Specialist about specific needs.
Q: Is the water safe to drink in the country I’m visiting?
No, you will have access to purified water throughout your stay. In an effort to limit single-use plastic, please bring a reusable water bottle.
Q: Do I need travel insurance? What should it cover?
Travel Insurance is not required but we highly recommend that a plan is purchased to protect any delays or cancellations that could incur. We partner with Arch Roam Right a leading provider in travel protection, and can refer you to them for a quote.
Q: Are my belongings safe while I’m on my trip? Are there safes for storing valuables?
Yes. We trust that your belongings are protected while under our staff’s watch. The managers and staff at the accommodations pride themselves in having a comfortable and secure property where their guest feel safe and at home.
Q: Is tipping commonplace in the places we’re visiting?
Discover Corps offers a tipping guide in the Travel Portal for your guide and driver. All other tipping for restaurants, hotels and more are included in the price of your trip fee.
Q: Are Discover Corps trips suitable for LGBTQ travelers?
Yes, we are confident that LGBTQ travelers would be more than welcome on our trips and in Peru.
Q: What if I end up ill or get injured on the trip and am unable to continue? What happens then?
In the case of injury or illness, first and foremost, we would seek proper medical attention. In each of the locations we operate, we have designated medical clinics and hospitals that we take travelers to in such cases. Discover Corps also includes a comprehensive medical insurance policy for each traveler who goes abroad with us. If you are unable to join Discover Corps prior to the trip, travel insurance will cover the costs depending on the severity of and reason for the situation. You can inquire with Arch Roam Right for exact policies and the guidelines.
Q: What type of luggage do you recommend I take?
Overall, the rule of thumb across all of our trips is to pack as lightly as possible. This will simply reduce the amount of luggage you are carrying around throughout the trip and make things easier. We recommend bringing a smaller bag for items during your visit to Machu Picchu. Please check our packing list page for more details.
Q: What clothes and footwear should I pack?
Each destination varies in climate, so it is recommended to look over the packing list that is provided under each destination. Please reference the packing list on the Travel Portal.
Q: What essential documents do I need to take?
Any international travel requires a valid passport. Discover Corps recommends you take 2 photo copies of your passport and leave one at home and take the other with you.
Q: Can I opt out of certain activities?
Travelers can opt out on certain activities, but keep in mind that each program is a set price and includes most activities.
Q: Will my mobile phone work? Will I have access to the Internet?
Check with your cell phone carrier to enable an international phone plan. While you are staying at hotels, you will have access to wifi.
Q: Do I need to get vaccines before I travel?
According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, there are no vaccinations required in order to travel to Peru. However, we also recommend consulting with your local travel clinic for recommended inoculations for all international travels.
Q: How Far in Advance do I need to Reserve my trip?
The farther in advance you book, the better selection of dates you’ll have. On most trips you’ll want to book 3 to 6 months out. For holiday trips, you’ll want to reserve 6 to 8 months out. Rest assured, though, we’re also masters at accommodating last- minute reservations!
Q: At Amazon, is leishmaniasis or malaria present?
Leishmaniasis is present throughout the rain forests of southeastern Peru. It is a skin lesion caused by a protozoan transmitted by a certain kind of small biting fly. There is no vaccination against it but it is curable in every case. The selected cure, injections of pentavalent antimony (Glucantime), is uncomfortable. Leishmaniasis is also very easy to prevent by wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants, and repellent on exposed skin at all times, and sleeping under mosquito nets. Malaria is present but extremely rare. If you wish to take medical precautions against malaria consult your physician or a specialist in tropical medicine.
Q: At Amazon, what will my accommodation be like?
Please click here for information.
Q: At Amazon, what are the meal times?
Breakfast time depends on your scheduled activity according to the lodge. Your guide will advise on this at the lodge. Regular breakfast is at 7:15hrs. Lunch is served at 13:00hrs and dinner is served at 19:30hrs. Please let us know if you are vegetarian or have any special dietary needs. We can request a special menu for children, if need it. Please inquire in advance.
Q: Can I drink the water at the Amazon?
The Research Center provides natural water 24 hours per day. We advise you not to drink the water from the river, lake, or any of the taps. Consumable water can be found throughout the lodge from many dispensers and pitchers. All the water that the lodge provides is purified with an ozone treatment. The Research Center also suggests that you use this water to brush your teeth. Please turn off the water flow while lathering and soaping up to reduce unnecessary water usage.
Q: Is there a safe in my room at the Amazon?
Yes. We ask you to keep your valuable belongings and documents in the safe. Do not leave the valuables in plain view. Equally, if you have food or candies please keep them in the safe. Do not leave them outside. This way you will avoid attracting insects and other animals. Ask the lodge manager or guide to inform you about the proper use of the safety box