How do I get there? Flights and logistics:
All international flights into Peru route through Lima, with connections to most destinations throughout the country. Some flights out of North America and Europe arrive late in the evening after the last flight to Cusco has departed. In these cases, an overnight stay in Lima will be required before proceeding to Cusco. Your Inkati Peru travel specialist will be happy to assist you with making any necessary hotel arrangements.
Traveling to Cusco: There are four airline carriers that fly round-trip between Lima and Cusco: LATAM Airlines, Sky and Viva Air. All offer similar schedules and in-flight service, but we usually recommend either LATAM Airlines as they tend to be the most helpful when unexpected flight cancellations or delays occur. Your Inkati Peru travel specialist can also assist you in selecting the best flight options for your trip.
What if I need help booking hotels and adding trip extensions to my itinerary?
We always encourage our guests to extend their trips with, at minimum, a couple of pre-adventure days in Cusco to provide time for altitude acclimatization while they explore the remarkable beauty of the city. Depending on availability, we would be happy to book accommodations for you at the best option hotels. We also recommend that our guests plan an extra night at Machu Picchu for a more comprehensive exploration of the citadel.
Inkati Peru can also help you plan and book any additional accommodations or excursions that you might like to experience during your time in Peru. We offer a collection of trip extensions to some of Peru’s other notable destinations: Lima, Arequipa, Nazca, Lake Titicaca, the Amazon and of course, within Cusco and The Sacred Valley. Please alert your Inkati Peru travel specialist if you would like to build any additional experiences into your trip.
Do I need travel insurance?
All guests are required to provide valid proof of travel insurance, including specific coverage for adventure travel activities in Peru.
How do I physically prepare for this trip?
On any Trek to Machu Picchu or alternative trek, guests hike 4-8 hours per day on six (6) consecutive days along rugged mountain trails and at various elevations (up to 15,000’/4,500m). Pre-trip preparation should include challenging cardiovascular exercise including regular hikes on varied terrain, and a healthy, balanced diet. Well-worn hiking boots and additional acclimatization nights in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek are both highly recommended. Having said this, please be assured that all guests are encouraged to hike at their own pace and take breaks whenever needed to ensure a successful and enjoyable trek for all.
What will the weather be like?
The weather in Cusco is defined by two seasons: Rainy and dry. Wet season typically runs from November through March, with average temperatures of approximately 56°F (13.3°C). Occasional showers are expected throughout this period, with the heaviest rains occurring in January and February. Dry season is normally from April through October or November, during which time you can expect mostly sunny days followed by cooler nights and the possibility of morning frost. The average daytime temperature around this time is 49.5°F (9.7°C). July is regularly recorded as the coldest month of the year; in some locations night temperatures can drop as low as 32°F (0°C).
Keep in mind that Cusco is located in a high-mountain environment where variable weather is expected. Rain can occur in the middle of July just as sun may appear in January, so it is always important to be prepared for four season in one day.
How can I avoid altitude sickness during my trip?
Altitude sickness is most common at elevations above 6,500’/1,900m and results from the body adjusting to a decreased amount of oxygen. To combat this, Inkati Peru recommends spending some nights in Cusco or the sacred valley prior to the start of any adventure program. In addition, it is always important to drink plenty of water. In case of extreme altitude sickness, both oxygen and First Aid Kid are available as needed.
How much luggage can I take?
Once you have booked your Inkati Peru Trip, you will receive a packing list that outlines the items that you will need for the trip. We recommend packing your belongings in a regular size suitcase or duffel bag for the duration of the program. You will only need a day-pack during the adventures parts.
Please be aware that the train company to Machu Picchu imposes a baggage weight limit of 12kg/27lbs per person. Inkati Peru offers duffel bags on loan; please request one at the beginning of the program in Cusco if you think that your luggage will exceed this weight. Extra luggage can be stored safely at your hotel in Cusco.
Is the electrical current the same as where I’m traveling from?
Although most of Peru operates with an electrical current of 220V. Most of the devices use to have incorporated the convertor in their chargers.
What variations in terrain should I expect?
Second only to the Himalayas, the Andes rise to over 19,000’/5,800m. The rugged Andean landscape is comprised of dramatic mountain ranges separated by deep vertical canyons and green valleys. The eastern slopes of the Andes are veiled in cloud forests which receive plentiful rainfall as they drop into the Amazon Basin.
All of the trails are well-maintained and safe. Adventurers can expect sometimes to cross sections of original Inca Trails depending on the route , this in addition to newer paths that may sometimes include steep, rocky, or even muddy terrain. Be prepared for varied ecosystems almost every day!
What should I know about Peruvian currency?
The official currency of Peru is the “Sol” (S/.), although US Dollars are also widely accepted. If you are carrying cash be sure to bring crisp, unsullied US bills since torn or defaced currency will not be accepted locally. ATM machines that dispense both US Dollars and Nuevos Soles are readily available in the city of Cusco. Credit cards are generally accepted only in the more upscale restaurants and shops in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Note: VISA is most widely accepted, followed by MasterCard. American Express is accepted in very few places.
During your trip in Peru in adventure parts, you will only need to carry a small amount of cash for souvenirs and minor personal expenses. We recommend taking Nuevos Soles in small denominations for purchases en route. Optional gratuities for trip leaders, assistant guides, and any other staff can be given in either currency.
Are staff gratuities included?
Gratuities are not included in the trip cost; but we leave this to your discretion.
Tell us about your experience
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