INCA TRAIL FAQs
Welcome to the ultimate guide for the Inca Trail FAQs! If you’re planning on embarking on this iconic trek, then you’re in the right place. The Inca Trail is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that takes you through stunning mountain landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant ecosystems. However, before you start packing your bags, you might have a lot of questions about what to expect, what to bring, and how to prepare. In this guide, we’ll cover all the essential information you need to know before you hit the trail, so you can have the best experience possible. From permits and regulations to gear and safety tips, let’s dive into the world of the Inca Trail and make sure you’re fully prepared for this unforgettable adventure!
1.- What is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most beautiful and best preserved sections of what was once the great Inca road network of the Qhapac Ñan. The most popular version of this Inca trail is the one that includes a tour of 4 days and 3 nights. There is a long version of 5 days and a much shorter version of 2 days. There are also trekking routes that connect with the Inca Trail, for example, the one that crosses Salkantay, the one from Cacchicata (Inca Quarry) or the one that comes from Lares. The Inca Trail is one of the most famous treks in the world, it is widely mentioned in prestigious virtual magazines such as National Geographic, lovely planet and others, it is also one of the most popular and sought after treks in travel platforms such as TripAdvisor, Tour Radar, GetYourguide, etc.
2.- Where is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is located in Peru, within the Cusco region between kilometers 82 and 110 of the Cusco – Machu Picchu railway and within the district of Urubamba. The Inca Trail is located on the right bank of the Urubamba River in the Vilcanota mountain range.
3.- How long is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is 33 kilometers long and runs along beautiful cobblestone paths, stairways, archaeological sites and a series of Inca units.
4.- How can I know the availability of the Inca Trail?
Since 2000 the Inca Trail has been regulated by Peruvian authorities. This has brought many benefits to the Inca Trail, clean trails and marked camping sites. However, in this order it has also limited the amount of people on the Inca Trail to avoid negative impacts. Currently only 500 people are allowed on the trail each day, including hikers, guides, porters and cooks.
You can check the availability of the Inca Trail at the following link:
INCA TRAIL AVAILABILITY
If your date is not available, you can venture to explore other wonderful treks to Machu Picchu, excellent alternatives that thousands of travelers certify as ideal trips to reach the Inca llacta of Machu Picchu.
02 Days Short Inca Trail
03 Day Huchuy Qosqo Hike
04 Days Lares Trek
04 Days Inca Jungle Adventure
05 Days Salkantay Trekking
5.- What is Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is one of the seven wonders of the modern world, it is a mixed heritage site declared by UNESCO. It is a colossal work of Inca engineering and agriculture. It is one of the few Inca settlements preserved in its entirety since the arrival of the Spanish and its subsequent abandonment.
Machu Picchu can be defined as an Inca llacta of the Amazonian Andes or Peruvian high jungle. A llacta is the Quechua term used to name many of the administrative centers of Inca origin, that is to say that, unlike a city, its population only resided there seasonally before being replaced by another group of settlers.
6.- Where is Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is located in the Peruvian region of Cusco, province of Urubamba and district of Machu Picchu. This great Inca construction is located halfway up the Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountains within the geological phenomenon called Vilcabamba Batolith in the Andean Mountain range of the same name. It is also located within a natural conservation area of intangible character protected by the Peruvian state and called: Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
7.- When was Machu Picchu discovered?
Many Peruvian historians attribute the discovery of Machu Picchu to the Cusquenian Agustín Lizarraga. While the “scientific discovery”, much more diffused, to Hiram Bingham.
In any case, the international and scientific diffusion of Machu Picchu began on July 24, 1911 when Hiram Bingham, on an exploratory trip, was led to Machu Picchu by Melchor Arteaga. After returning to the United States, he obtained sponsorship for another expedition the following year. Bingham became known as the discoverer of Machu Picchu.
8.- Which is better, Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu mountain or Huchuy Picchu?
In Machu Picchu there are several alternative treks from the same Inca site such as Inti Punku or Huchuy Picchu, however the most popular are Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. Each one has a particular view of Machu Picchu. In Huayna Picchu we find Inca units and in Machu Picchu Mountain, located at a higher altitude, we find much more flora and fauna typical of those ecosystems. On the other hand, Huchuy Picchu is the easiest hike and the one with the closest view to the llacta or Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
On the other hand, these three treks have limited permits. Reservations must be made well in advance. The recommended time is 6 months, Huayna Picchu is usually sold out faster than Machu Picchu Mountain or Huchuy Picchu.
9.- Are pack animals allowed on the Inca Trail?
Pack animals such as mules, horses, llamas or alpacas that carry the hikers’ equipment are not allowed on the Inca Trail so as not to damage the Inca trails. However, llamas and alpacas live in the high mountains, you will see them on the trail and also inside Machu Picchu itself. The load distribution with all the cooking and camping equipment is in charge of the porters.
10.- How long does the Inca Trail last?
The Inca Trail experience can be enjoyed in different ways. We have different durations available, the classic duration is 4 days and 3 nights, an extended version of 5 days and 4 nights and finally a short version of 2 days and 1 night that allows you to visit the final stretch of the Inca Trail.
Other options connect with routes such as Salkantay trek, a challenge that takes many more days but is the combination of the two best treks in Peru and the world.
The short Inca Trail can also be combined with tours in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and with treks such as the Lares trek.
11.- What is the best season to hike the Inca Trail?
The best season to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is during the dry season, between the months of March and October. These months are recommended because the presence of rain in the Cusco region is minimal. However, nothing prevents you from doing the trek from November to January, in these months the mountains are brimming with an intense green and the vegetation is brimming with life showing the Inca Trail much more beautiful. We must mention that during February, one of the rainiest months, the Inca Trail is closed.
The Cusco sky during this season is a spectacular sky blue, the days are sunny, so it is necessary to protect yourself from the sun, using hats and sunscreen. However, in the mornings and evenings there is an intense cold; it is necessary to wear appropriate clothing to adapt to the cold of Cusco.
Otherwise, it is the best time to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Do not forget to take a good camera with you, to be able to record unforgettable moments during your stay in Cusco.
12.- What is the maximum altitude of the Inca Trail?
The maximum altitude will depend a lot on the type of trek you hire, since there are 2, 4, 5 and 7 day treks.
- In the 02 Days Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trek, the maximum altitude is 2730 m.a.s.l/8956 ft. The level of activity for this trek is easy and can be done privately or in groups. The service is quality and the decision is yours.
- In the 04 Days Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trek, the maximum altitude is 4200m.a.s.l/13 779 ft. The level of activity for this trek is moderate and can also be done privately or in groups.
The maximum altitude on the 05 Days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trek is 4200m.a.s.l/13779 ft. The level of activity for this route is moderate.
And finally, the altitude for the 07 Days Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trek is 5,200m.a.s.l/17060 ft. The level of activity for this trek is difficult, so it is necessary to be in good physical condition.
13.- Is the 5-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu the same as the 4-day Classic Inca Trail?
Yes, it is the same route as the shorter trek but at a slower pace, spending more time at the ruins each day. While you still arrive at Machu Picchu on day 4, you will be there for sunset (hopefully good weather will allow you to witness this) instead of sunrise, and then head to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved rest and a hot shower. The next day you will be in Machu Picchu for sunrise (again weather dependent). The best route to do with families with small children.
14.- Do I need to book the Inca Trail in advance?
Permits for the Inca Trail are very limited, there are only 500 entries per day. Of these 500 spaces, more than half (300) are for cooks, porters and guides. This fact limits the number of spaces on the Inca Trail and means that visitor reservations must be made many months in advance.
If you want to secure a place, we recommend that you do so at least six months in advance and if you come during the high season in Cusco, from May to October, you should make your reservation more than 8 months in advance.
15.- How long is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
The total length of the Inca Trail is approximately 43 kilometers. The route has diverse stretches, steep climbs to ascend, steep hills to descend, endless curves and few flat areas.
16.- Can children hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
There are no impediments for a child to enjoy this hike with his/her parents, however, the child must be used to walking. Our recommendation is that the child must be over 12 years old, although nothing prevents a child of less age to do it, but he/she must be in very good physical condition and without any health problems.
17.- Can I do the Inca Trail on my own?
Because the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is located within a national conservation area called “Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu”, by disposition of the Peruvian government you must access the Inca Trail only with an authorized travel agency and therefore under the close supervision of an official tour guide who has the corresponding authorization to enter the Inca Trail.
It is for this same reason that the travel agencies also provide the visitor with all the equipment for the days on route, they have cooks and porters, everything is strictly regulated.
Both Huaynapicchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are treks with restricted permits that must be done within a certain time. These permits/tickets will be secured by Inkayni Peru Tours, but must be arranged a few months in advance of your trip. Both offer incredible views of Machu Picchu from the viewpoints directly above. Machu Picchu takes about 3 hours to reach the top and is spectacular on a good day, but views are often restricted by clouds. Huaynapicchu takes 45 minutes to reach the top and is definitely the most popular of the three options. All the views are incredible. Click here to see a short video showing the difference between Machu Picchu and Huaynapicchu.
18.- Do I need to be in good physical condition for the Inca Trail?
It is very necessary and almost indispensable for those who venture on the Inca Trail to be in good physical condition to enjoy the Inca Trail without any worries. The geography of the Inca Trail is very varied, with flat terrain, ascents, descents, slopes and many steps. If someone ventures without much physical preparation, rather than enjoying the trail, his experience will be somewhat complicated by the physical effort. Therefore, if you are a person who does not do much physical activity, it is essential to do a leg routine weeks before the trip to increase your endurance.
On the other hand, it is also highly recommended to spend a few days in Cusco before venturing to the Inca Trail and not suffer the ravages of altitude, Inca Trail crosses a maximum altitude of 4200 meters/13779 ft.
19.- Are trekking poles necessary for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
We recommend these poles, especially for people with knee problems or any kind of leg discomfort. Inca Trail is a constant of steep and steep climbs, narrow paths, Inca made stairs and long descents. Specialized hiking poles will help you keep your balance and reduce the impact of your own weight on your knees.
Inkayni Peru Tours rents out strekking poles for $ 15
20.- What is the difference between a private tour and a group tour on the Inca Trail?
Practically all tours are exactly the same in terms of places to visit and campsites. In the private tour you will travel with the people you booked your trek with (family, friends, etc).
In the group tours there are people from all over the world included in the hike groups.
21.- When we arrive in Cusco, can we pay the remaining balance with a credit card or cash?
Preferably we expect all remaining balances to be paid with CASH upon arrival in Cusco, we accept US dollars or Peruvian soles. Here in Cusco almost all of our movements are done with cash: the salaries of our guides, porters, chefs and logistics are paid in cash.
On the other hand, we also understand that carrying a lot of cash is a constant concern when traveling long distances. That’s why we also accept most major credit cards in our office. This includes Visa and Mastercard, these companies charge an extra fee for transactions, which is why we charge a commission of 5% of the total per transaction.
You can also make your payments through PayPal, we can help you through the process.
22.- Are vegetarians, vegans or other special dietary needs available?
Of course! These needs do not require additional costs. When making your reservation, please inform us of any dietary needs or requirements, including all types of food allergies.
23.- How do permits work to do the Inca Trail? Do I need a permit?
The saturation of the Inca Trail along with the problems of erosion and impact on the trails in recent decades have required the protection of the Inca Trail. These measures to protect these sacred trails include limiting spaces for daily visitors. Only licensed Inca Trail tour operators such as Inkayni Peru Tours can obtain permits to enter the Inca Trail from the appropriate authorities.
24.- How do I update my passport numbers on my Inca Trail entrance permit?
As an Inca Trail operating travel agency, the government will only allow us to change passport numbers if we have a copy of both the new passport and the old one. If you no longer have your old passport, any government-issued ID will be accepted, as long as the name is the same. Also, make sure that your passport does not expire six months or less from your travel date.
25.- I have a food allergy, can I still participate?
Please inform us in detail if you have any food allergies at the time of booking. Also, the severity of your reaction and any medication you take in case of emergency. Most importantly, if your allergy is severe, we ask that you be accompanied by a friend or person who is aware and fully responsible for your situation. So that you are ready with any medication.
26.- How can I find the person who will pick me up at the airport?
We have included the famous Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu in many of our multi-day packages, which include airport pick-ups and transfers. In this context, we must clarify that upon arrival at the Cusco airport, you will be told where to wait for our transfer or staff to take you to your hotel. You should come out of the disembarkation area and find our team holding a sign with your name and ready to transfer you. If there are any last-minute changes to your arrival flight details, please LET US KNOW the new arrival details as soon as possible through our email or phone numbers.
27.- What are Inca Trail porters and why are they necessary on the Inca Trail?
The porters carry the equipment of the group and the equipment of the clients to spend the night when walking the Inca Trail, because pack animals such as horses, mules or llamas are not allowed on the Inca Trail. The Inca Trail is regulated by the Peruvian government, which implemented a permit system since 2000, in order to protect the Inca Trail from damaging erosion by pack animals or others.
28.- Should I hire an additional porter for the classic Inca Trail?
Remember that the group service includes a personal porter to carry your belongings up to 5 kg or 11.02 pounds. Before the start of your trip we will provide you with a travel bag to carry your basic items. For example, a sleeping bag weighs about 2.5 kg and extra clothing weighs about 2.5 kg on average. Also, remember that your porter will not be walking beside you during the entire trek. That is, you will still need to carry an extra backpack to keep your personal items handy during the day. For example, drinking water, snacks, camera, among others.
29.- Are there toilets on the Inka Trail?
Toilets have been added along the Inka Trail, mostly in the main campsites, not the classic toilets but a “squatting” toilet. The situation is not always perfect. All toilets have cold running water. We recommend that you bring a hand sanitizer to use after visiting the public toilets. Hot water and soap will be provided before each meal.
30.- Can I spend an extra night in Aguas Calientes, Peru?
Of course, if you agree to take the same train from Aguas Calientes that is part of your original itinerary, which is typically at 4:22 pm, then there is no additional charge to move the train back a day. If you need us to secure your hotel or another visit to Machu Picchu, this will incur an additional cost. If you decide to spend an extra night in Aguas Calientes (the town at the entrance to Machu Picchu), be sure to let the Inkayni office know at least one month in advance, so that your train ticket is purchased for the correct day.
31.- Do I need a tour operator or guide for the Inca Trail?
Yes, it is now illegal to hike the Inca Trail without an operator, and has been since 2000. To hike the trail you need a permit to enter, a permit that can only be obtained by licensed operators who also provide a certified and specially trained guide to work on the Inca Trail. Other trails in the Andes can be done without a guide, but the Inca Trail can only be done with a licensed guide from a licensed tour operator.
32.- What will the weather be like on the Inca Trail?
The weather on the Inca Trail and in the Andes in general depends on the season. From April to October is the dry season. From November to March is the rainy season. February is the rainiest month. The months from June to August are the peak of winter in Peru, with June being the coldest month during the nights. However, due to climate change, the weather has become more variable in recent years.
It is best to prepare for sun and rain, regardless of when it comes. Temperatures are constant throughout the year. Mornings and evenings are always cold.
33.- What do I need to pack for the Inca Trail?
- Moisture-wicking underwear
- Base layers
- Trekking shirts (LS and SS)
- Shorts or trekking pants
- Fleece jacket and windbreaker
- Warm jacket (for the evenings)
- Rain gear or poncho for water.
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp
- Gloves
- Walking sticks (can be rented)
- Trekking boots or sandals
- Trekking socks
- Gaiters (optional)
- Daypack
- Water bottle
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Air mattress (available for rent)
- Inflatable pillow (optional)
- Ear plugs (optional)
- Passport
- Insurance
- Trekking towel (optional)
- Bathing suit (optional – for the hot springs in the town of Aguas Calientes)
- Waterproof sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Baby wipes
- Plastic bags
- General medicines
- Snacks
- Toiletries
- Cash
- Camera
- Power bank/battery charger for any electronic devices such as smart phones/cameras.
- Be sure to bring a fleece jacket for the mornings and a down jacket for the evenings. Once the sun comes out, you should feel comfortable walking and touring Machu Picchu in short sleeves.
- Long pants (yoga or hiking pants) are recommended to protect you from mosquitoes, which can be a nuisance in Aguas Calientes.
34.- What do I need to carry in my backpack on the Inca Trail?
The porters will be responsible for carrying all your overnight supplies in your backpack to each campsite, but everyone should have a daypack that should include everything you need for the trek during the day, as your backpack will only be available in the morning and afternoon.
These are the typical items you will want to carry in your daypack: waterproof jacket, cold weather jacket, water bottle, flashlight, insect repellent, sunscreen, antiseptic hand gel, sun block, water bottle. Any toiletries or medications you may need. You may also want to bring snacks, crackers and nuts.
35.- What should I pack if I am doing a short 2-day Inca Trail trek?
The short 2-day Inca Trail is very different from the classic 4 or 5-day version. For this short trek, it is advisable to pack as light as possible – bring only the essentials for a full day trek. Water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, waterproof house, water bottle, snacks, etc.
36.- Do I need hiking shoes or boots to hike the Inca Trail?
We always recommend light hiking boots if possible. Those with ankle support are very useful, especially for inexperienced hikers. Because during the hike you will be going up and down hundreds of steps. The extra support of special hiking boots helps not to twist your ankles. For this reason, we recommend wearing these boots or hiking shoes.
37.- Should I use walking poles on the Inca Trail?
The use of walking poles can help relieve the pressure and our entire body weight on our knees during the downhill climbs and are a good support when climbing the mountains. Metal tips of trekking poles are not allowed on the Inca Trail. For those who bring their own poles, make sure they have rubber tips, this is regulated, any other material such as steel is not allowed. All in order to reduce the impact of these materials. Rubber tips can be purchased in Cusco if you forget to change your metal tips before arriving in Cusco. Also, keep in mind that airlines will not allow you to fly with walking sticks in your hand luggage, you must check them in your suitcases or checked luggage. For this last point it is recommended that you purchase or rent them in Cusco.
38.- What is the temperature of Inkayni Peru Tours sleeping bags, liners and sleeping pads available for rent?
Inkayni Peru Tours uses mummy style sleeping bags that are usable in -15° C / 5° F. Please note that if you are over 6’4″ / 1.95 meters tall, you will not be able to find a sleeping bag rental in Cusco. In this case, it is recommended that you bring your own. We provide cotton liners to everyone that are machine washable between each use. These should be included in the weight of your sleeping bag.
39.- Is there a place where we can plug in and charge our electronic devices on the Inca Trail?
There is an electrical facility at the last camp on the Inca Trail (Wiñay Huayna). But, there could be a very tight line to use it since there is only one plug source, so we recommend taking extra battery packs or power bans with you. See examples of portable battery packs or power banks.}
40.- What type of plugs are used in Peru?
Most hotels and even homes in Peru now have both the standard U.S. outlet and also the South American outlet. In Peru the common voltage is 220 V. The frequency is 60 Hz. The plugs and sockets are type A; B and C.
41.- Is there an age limit for the Inca Trail?
There is no government regulation on the minimum age or age limit for the Inca Trail. At Inkayni Peru Tours we have seen children as young as five years old and upwards even trek with their families. Regarding the maximum age, there is no established limit as long as you have the physical capacity to do it.
42.- What happens if an emergency occurs on the Inca Trail, or if a hiker needs medical help?
At each camp on the Inca Trail, there are park rangers and satellite telephones. The tour guides who accompany visitors on the Inca Trail are trained in first aid and emergency cases. The guides are in charge of the well-being of each of the tourists in their group during the trek. They have a first aid kit as well as bottled oxygen in case the visitor needs it. The Inca trail route is highly trafficked daily, accidents are almost non-existent. But in cases of emergency, the porters can quickly transport any person while first aid is provided.
43.- Do I have to tip the porters, cooks and guides?
In general, if the group has been satisfied with the service, it is customary to tip your team. If you are not sure how much to tip the porters and cook, ask your guide and he will give you an honest answer. And, if you have any equipment that you brought for the trek that you don’t think you will use again, you can give it to the porters as a gift.
44.- Where can I get drinking water on the Inca Trail?
We provide clean water at every meal. You are responsible for bringing water only for your first morning hike, as we will not have time to filter the water until your first lunch. Water is filtered, boiled and then cooled each day at each meal for hikers to refill their water bottles and hydration packs for each hiking segment.
45.- What are the current covid restrictions in Peru?
Currently, to visit Peru it is necessary to have the vaccination card with the complete doses 14 days prior to arrival. Otherwise, to enter Peru, the government requires PCR tests, but inside the country to enter all public places you will need your vaccination card. It is mandatory to wear a double mask or KN95 mask in all public places. Currently there is no longer a curfew in Cusco.
46.- Can I cancel my trek? What is the cancellation policy for the new Covid variants?
At this time our cancellation policy is that all Inca Trail reservation deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. This means that once we secure your Inca Trail permit for a specific date in 2022, we cannot refund your reservation deposit (or change the date). The only circumstance in which we could refund or reschedule your Inca Trail permits would be if the Peruvian authorities decide to close the international borders, thus allowing no foreigners to enter Peru or for any reason Covid the Inca Trail may close we can help you reschedule your trip.
46.- Is it easy to buy a kn95 mask in Cusco? If I use a kn95, do I need a double mask?
There are many pharmacies throughout the city. There you will be able to buy KN95 masks. If you have a KN95, you do not need to wear a double mask to enter certain establishments.
47.- Can I be tested for coronavirus on Sundays in Cusco?
Private clinics are open every day. A PCR test can be done any day of the week. The price is approximately 150 Peruvian soles.
48.- Is there a maximum or minimum age limit for inka trail?
There are NO government restrictions regarding age limit for Inka Trail. However, as a responsible Tour Agency, we will only accept reservations for children 7 or younger if the parents assume full responsibility for them during the trek. *For families with children, we highly suggest booking a private tour to make your experience more comfortable*
- All children below the age of 18 years must be accompanied by an adult.
- We require all trekkers age 60 or above to hire an additional porter (12kg) for their convenience.
- Trekkers age 65 + must consult with their physician before booking and also before traveling to verify health conditions for participating in a high altitude multi-day trek.
- We also suggest that all medical or doctor recommendations be acknowledged, even if this means cancelling your travel plans. We recommend that all clients 60 years of age or above arrive to Cusco at least 03 days before your trekking date to adjust to altitude.
- We recommend that all clients age 55 + speak in advance with their physician to consult the best way to plan your trek and inquire that your travel insurance covers activities such as adventure. We will require a medical file confirming a good state of health and NO cardiac problems.
49.- Where can I store my baggage that I dont need for the inka trail?
Any baggage that is not necessary for your trek may be stored in your hotel in Cusco (most hotels offer this service free of charge). In the case that your hotel may not provide this service, we will store your baggage safely in our office free of charge.
50.- With how much Time in advance should I book Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
We recommend as soon as possible!! This is a famous route in high-demand, and because the government has restricted access and applied daily limits (200 hikers & 300 porters/staff per day). Due to these factors, we urge you make your reservation as far in advance as possible.
If you plan to travel between the months of April – September, you best make your reservation 06 months before your departure date.
Between the months of October – January, it is possible to make a reservation 03 to 04 months in advance.
51.- How does Inkayni Peru Tours care for the porters?
- a) GOOD WAGES:
As a responsible tour agency, we pay our porters a salary of 210 Soles for the 4-day trek AND their transportation expenses (nearly 20% above the legal minimum salary, making Inkayni one of the best trekking agencies in Cusco).
Ideally, all agencies in Cusco should pay this amount, yet sadly, to this day there are many agencies not even paying the minimum legal salary.
- b) APPROPRIATE WEIGHT LIMIT:
Within the basic policies of Inkayni Peru Tours is respect for all staff, which means not exceeding weight limits.
This factor is extremely important when choosing a travel agency for trekking.
Unfortunately, there are many irresponsible companies (even big-name commercial companies that have often grown due to labor exploitation) that force porters to carry well over 25 kg and disrespect their rights.
For this reason, Inkayni Peru tours will not offer you a private bathroom, hot showers, or personal porter that will carry more than 5kg. This may exceed weight limits for our porters.
We kindly ask that before you choose a company for your trek that offers you these luxury services that you consider the extra weight that will be on the shoulders of your porters.
- c) INSURANCE:
Inkayni Peru Tours is one of few companies that offers insurance for our porters.
- d) TREKKING UNIFORMS:
Inkayni Peru Tours offers proper attire for all our staff.
52.- What is the potable water situation along the trail?
Inkayni Perú Tours will provide you with boiled water after each meal-time, starting with lunch on the second day (02).
Before this, you may purchase bottled water from small local ‘shops’ located outside local homes, offering water, gatorade, or soda. It is recommended that each person drink at least 02 to 03 liters of water each day.
You will also find small streams, or water on tap roughly every 2 hours along the Trail where you may fill your bottle, provided you have proper filtration/purification system. Water in the Andes is generally clean, but even though it may appear pure, you still must use a purification method for it to become safely potable.
Please consider the environment when you decide to travel and make a trek. Every day technology is improving to make our lives easier and avoid trash. Bring a purification system or bottle (such as UV light) to avoid buying bottled water.
53.- If I am traveling alone may I have my own tent?
If you are traveling alone and are open to sharing a tent, perhaps with someone of the same sex, there will be no additional cost. NOTE that if you wish to have a private tent, there is an additional cost of US $40.
54.- Is it guaranteed that we camp at Wiñaywayna on the third night of the Inka Trail?
Wiñay Wayna is the closest campsite to Machu Picchu, making it the favorite site for everyone. At a mere two (02) hours from Machu Picchu, camping at Wiñay Wayna allows groups to arrive very early in the morning to the Sun Gate. Unfortunately, there is not much space available at this site for all groups on the Inka Trail. The second closest campsite known as Phuyupatamarca is still a 5-hour hike to Machu Picchu. When trekking permits are purchased, the goverment is responsable for asigning campsites to groups. Inkayni has the reputation of finalizing group reservations and obtaining permits well before other companies, which means we often have the blessing of camping at Wiñay Wayna the majority of our treks.
55.- Where do I have to be the morning of the start of my trek and where will I finish at the end?
We will pick you up from your hotel to begin your trek and upon finishing, we will also leave you at your hotel.
56.- I wish to have a train company or train option different to that which Inkayni Peru Tours offers, is this possible?
If you wish to change your train company or option (such as Vistadome de Peru Rail, to Ollantaytambo or the whole route to Poroy), or your departure time, additional fees may apply. You must speak with one of our sales agents to inquire about availability and the additional costs.
We are a well-trained team, highly motivated and fully identified with our company.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
+51 933 839 757 / +51 984 153 351 – USA/Canada 1 (800) 256-3295
info@inkayniperutours.com / reservations@inkayniperutours.com
Andrés Avelino Cáceres A-6, Cusco 08002, Cusco, Peru
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