With its ancients ruins, snow-capped Andes, and vast Amazon wilderness, Peru has long captured the imagination of people in distant lands. But for much of the 1980s and ´90s few dared to visit the country, which was wracked by a violent conflict between guerrilla movement and Peru´s armed forces. Even after the violence subsided in the ´90s the country´s tourism infrastructure was quite limited, catering primarily to backpackers and other budget travelers. Thanks to two decades of economic growth and its growing popularity as a tourist destination, Peru now has more options for experiencing its cultural and natural heritage than ever before. A growing number of the country´s tourism businesses are becoming environmentally and socially responsible, and the industry is helping countless Peruvian´s to work their way out of poverty, which remains the country´s biggest problem.

Peru is safer than it has been in years, but standard travel precautions apply. Remember: you represent enormous wealth to the typical person here; the budget for your trip might exceed what many Peruvians earn in a year. Conceal your valuables, watch your things, avoid deserted streets, walk purposefully, take taxis at nights, and be vigilant if somebody invades your personal space, or if there is a scene of commotion, either of which may be done to distract you. Bag slashers and pickpockets tend to work in markets and on buses; keep track of your valuables in any crowded place. In terms of health and sanitation, few visitors experience anything worse than a bout of traveler´s diarrhea. If you stick to upscale eateries in well-trodden destinations, you may minimize even those problems. Be wary of raw foods (peel your fruit), don´t drink tap water. If you visit the Amazon Basin, you should get vaccinated against yellow fever. Check with your physician about any other pretravel immunization or medication at least a month before you leave, since some vaccines require multiple injections. We do not recommend discos in Cusco for recent bads reports.

While Cusco and Machu Picchu are obligatory destinations for a first trip to Peru, hiking the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu (Alternative treks as Salkantay, Lares or Huchuy Qosqo when permits for Inca Trail treks are sold out (Short Inca Trail 2 Day or 3 Day version are available year around due a new regualtions) or reaching Machu Picchu through out a off the beatten tracks as Vilcabamba, Espiritupampa or Choquequirao trek for adventurous trekkers or the relaxing, luxurious or even magycal experience riding a train to Aguas Calientes to overnight and next morning arrive early to enjoy Machu Picchu´s sunrise and even climb to Huayna Picchu and walk to the Sun´s gate...we suggest to plan 3 or 4 more days around Cusco, South Valley and Sacred Valley attractions, the country has much more to offer, as Arequipa, Puno, Nazca, Ica, Paracas or Puerto Maldonado.There is too much to see and do in one trip, so plan your itinerary according to your interests and the season.Wherever you go, build some downtime into your itinerary, especially your first day in the Andes, when you may feel weak or ill. Don´t let all those churches, ruins, convents, and museums blur together. Give yourself enough time to stop and smell the pisco sours. For year travelers avoided Lima, which would be a mistake, The country´s capital is a sprawling metropolis with horrible traffic and more than its share of slums, but the plazas and colonial churches of the historic Centro are impressive, Barranco is charming, and the metropolitan area as in Miraflores, San Isidro or Pueblo Libre has the country´s best museums and restaurants. Postpone that diet. Amazing is the only way to describe what we think is the hemisphere´s best food. A mixture of European, indigenous, Asian, and African influences makes Peruvian cuisine remarkably varied and delicious. The seafood is excellent, and the best is found in Lima and other coastal cities, but Cusco and Arequipa have ample selections of restaurants that serve up some tasty regional dishes. Shopping is another popular distraction from exploring, and the handicraft selection is impressive, especially in Cusco. There are several market and fancy shops. Try to learn a few words of Spanish. Outside the tourist industry few people speak much English. Leaning some common words and phrases can simplify life,and make your trip more pleasant. (Spanish is a second language for many Peruvians, too.) Pack reserves of pacience. Peru offers a polished tourism product, but schedules occasionally go awry, traffic in the cities is chaotic, and street hawkers or beggars can get on your nerves.

Answer

Citizens of the United States, Canada, Great Britain, South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia do not require visas to enter Peru as tourists -only valid passports (your passport should be valid at least 6 months beyond your departure date from Peru, contact the embassy or consulate in your home country for more information.
For Inca Trail Trek we require your passport number in order to buy the permits. We will use this passport number to purchase the trek permits. Your passport number will be clearly marked on the trek permit together with your name. When you start the trek government authorities will check both your passport and your trek permit. The two numbers have to be the same otherwise the authorities will not let you start the trek.

Our challenges attract people of all levels of experience and fitness, all ages and backgrounds. We expect all participants to train hard in advance to achieve this challenge, but we respect everyone’s limits. We design our challenges so that everyone can go at their own pace: this is not a race. For logistical and safety reasons we sometimes need to re-group, so the front-runners will find themselves waiting for the slower ones. Please relax, and remember that this is a team effort that enables people to achieve their personal goals.

The great Machu Picchu, crowded or not crowded, misty rains or clear skies, never ceases to enthrall you !!!. Hiking thru popular Inca Trail trek, reaching this unique wonder after trekking with other alternative treks or just taking the train to Aguas Calientes from Cusco or from the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
High Season (from May to October)
Dry season in the Andean highlands and in the Amazon rain forest.
Best time for hiking and trekking in the highlands.
Busiest time due to North American and Europen holidays
Shoulder (September - November & March -May)
Occasional rainstorms in the highlands. Ideal for less crowded visits.
September to November are good rain forest visit times.
Low Season (December to February)
Rainy season in the highlands, very wet in the Amazon.
The Inca Trail closed February for clean up.
Summer on the coast makes it high season for beach activities.

Passport.- You´ll need one that´s valid for six months beyond your entry date into the country. Travel Insurance.- Carry a copy of your policy.
USA / Canada: https://www.worldnomads.com www.insuremytrip.com
UK: https://www.squaremouth.com/21293
Spanish phrasebook.- It´ll make ordering food and talking to locals much easier.
Windbreaker.- It gets cold in the Andes; pack a sturdy, lined windbreaker or raincoat and a warm wool cap.
An adventurous appetite.- Peru has the best gastronomic scene in South America -try something new and delicious !
Money belt.- It can be handy in avoiding pickpockets.
Three to six months before.- Make a reservation for trekking the Inca Trail.
Three to one months before.- For Machu Picchu, Extension tours, Jungle trips.

Peru shares the Eastern Stadard Time zone with New York and Miami when the US East Coast is not on daylight saving time. So when it´s noon in Lima it will be 11am in Dallas and 9am in Los Angeles.

Cell phone coverage and wireless internet access are increasingly common in Peru, which means you can take your smart phone and laptop with you.

Capital Lima. Population: 9.9 million (2016).
Area 1,285,220 sq km (496,225 sq miles).
Population 30 million The population of the country is largely Indian and Mestizo Time GMT - 5.
Gained independence from Spain in 1824, having declared it in 1821.
President: Pedro Pablo Kuczynski
Religion 81% Roman Catholic, 2.7% other denominations, 16.3% unspecified or none.
Language: Although the majority of city and town dwellers speak Spanish, Qechua is spoken in most mountain areas and Aymara /Spanish on the Lake titicaca Islands.
many people in City tourism areas speak English.

COSTA, SIERRA, SELVA)
The Costal region, which contains Lima (the capital), is a narrow coastal plain consisting of large tracts of desert broken by fertile valleys. The cotton, sugar and rice plantations and most of the so-far exploited oil fields lie in this area, as does the majority of the population. The highland Sierra contains the Andes, with peaks over 6,000m (20,000ft), most of the country's mineral resources (silver, zinc, lead, copper and gold) and the greater part of its livestock. The Selva, an area of fertile, subtropical land, lies between the Andes and the borders with Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia and Ecuador. The Amazonian jungle has vast natural resources. The absence of land communications, however, left the area largely uncharted until full-scale oil exploration began in 1973. Even today roads barely penetrate the region.

220 volts AC, 60Hz. (110 volts AC is available in most 4- and 5-star hotels.) Peru is a large, mountainous country on the Pacific coast of South America that borders Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil and Bolivia to the east, and Chile to the south. The Pacific Ocean lies to the west.

At 3400m, Cuzco is affected more by altitude than latitude, and is hot and sunny during the day (about 30°C) but chilly at night – a few degrees above freezing. May to September is officially the dry season but in the mountains it is unusual not to have some rain at any time of year. Varies according to area. On the coast winter lasts from June to September. During this period, the mountainous areas are often sunny during the day but cold at night. This is high tourist season and the best time to visit most regions. Heavy rains in the mountains and jungle last from December to April. It hardly ever rains in Lima nor most of the coast, except for Tumbes and Piura, which have tropical climates.

(Cusco´s Boleto Turístico)
this visitors ticket costs 130 soles approx US$55 (half price for students) and is valid for 10 days.. The full Cusco Tourist Ticket ticket allows you entry to 15 sites These sites which are part of the City tour are Sacsayhuaman / Qenko/Puca Pucara/Tambo Machay and these sites which are visited in the Sacred Valley tour are Pisac/Ollantaytambo/Chinchero plus other sites in Cusco such as Religious Art Museum / Church of San Blas / Regional History Museum The entrance to Moray is included on the full ticket and is used when doing the mountain biking tour. Cusco Tourist Ticket is sold at the sites themselves and can be bought on the day of tour if you like. Central office is located on Sol Avenue (Galerias Turisticas).
Note this ticket does not include: Entrance to Koricancha (or Qorikancha) 10 soles Entrance to Cathedral 25 soles (the visit of the Cathedral is optional as many people prefer not to visit now that it is more expensive so there is the option to have afternoon tea in a restored Colonial house / hotel if you prefer during this part of the City tour)
Cusco Tourist Ticket also includes the admission to the Cusco folk dances and music at Cusco Art Center in the 3rd block of Sol Avenue, presentation everynight from 7:00 pm
Alternatively you can purchase a partial ticket for 70 soles which allows a one day only visit of just the 4 Archeological sites if you are not planning to visit any of the Sacred Valley sites such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chincheros or a one day only partial ticket to visit the Sacred Valley sites such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chincheros ( Moray ) if you are not going to have time to visit the 4 Archeological sites of Saqsayhuaman /Qenqo /Pucapucara /Tambomachay.
The partial ticket for 70 soles does not allow for any further discount for ISIC card holders. Student partial ticket cost is also 70 soles.

There are many attractive Peruvian handicrafts such as alpaca wool sweaters, alpaca and llama rugs, Indian masks, colourful weaving and silver jewellery. Galleries and handicraft shops abound in Cusco (Avenida El Sol) near the wanchaq train station there is a big market and outdoor Andean craft markets in places such as Pisac in the Sacred Valley are famous.

The hot and spicy nature of Peruvian food, created by hot pepper, garlic and local ingredients.
Granja Heidy located at Cuesta San Blas.
Marcelo Batata Restaurant Calle Palacio 121 2nd Floor
Cafe Morena Calle Plateros
Cicciolina Restaurant Calle Triunfo.
La Bodaga 138 Calle Herraje 138
Meson de Espaderos Grill Plaza de Armas
La Retama Restaurant Portal de Panes Plaza de Armas.
Pucara Restaurant Calle Plateros
Restaurant Green / Inkanto Rest Santa Catalina 135
Cafe Ayllu Calle Marquez and Calle Almagro.
Pizzas Marengo.
Restaurant El Truco Plaza Regocijo.

Palta a la Reyna,Dieta de Pollo, Sopa a la Criolla, Caldo de Gallina, Quinua soup, Chairo, Lomo Saltado, Milaneza de Lomo, Milaneza de Pollo,Trucha a la Menier, Trucha al Ajillo, Aji de Gallina, Papa a la Huancayna, Anticuchos de corazon, Cuy al Horno con Rocoto Relleno, Pepian de Cuy, Pachamanca, Chicharrones, Seco de Cordero,Choclo con Queso, Ceviche (uncooked fish marinated in lemon or lime juice and hot chilli pepper), Chupe de Camarones (chowder-type soup made with shrimps, milk, eggs, potatoes and peppers), Causa rellena (potato cakes with chicken in the centre, but also cooked with avocado or crabmeat), Tamales (boiled corn dumplings filled with meat and wrapped in a banana leaf), Mazamorra morada (purple maize and sweet potato starch jelly cooked with lemons, dried fruits, cinnamon and cloves). Chicha Morada and Pisco Sour.

Pisco sour (bitters weet cocktail made from a potent grape brandy, lemmon and sugar).
Other pisco-based drinks are algarrobina (pisco and carob syrup), chilcano (pisco and ginger ale) and capitán (pisco and vermouth).
Chicha de jora (fermented corn juice) and chicha morada (non-alcoholic purple corn juice) are popular drinks dating from Inca times.
Cuzqueña beer

Due to the altitude you should only eat light foods for your first meal. Vegetable soups nothing too heavy and no alcohol. You should ensure you rest for at least 1 and a half to 2 hours on arrival otherwise you will find the alitude affects them more and this is usually with a bit of a tummy upset and headaches. Always have a coca tea on arrival and go and rest. Good to end off a meal with a mate (herbal tea) Manzanilla is camomile.
Often menus of the day are 3 course meals and so you probably don`t need 2 large meals in one day. So just get a lovely empañada and juice or coffee from EL BUEN PASTOR in the San Blas for the evening! If you are a large group ..look for buffets. You could spend all night waiting if not! Also for menus of the day if there are 2 options..indicate how many of each option 2 hours ahead and your time of arrival and pay a deposit or again you could spend all day waiting for entree! But please don`t leave Cusco without visiting EL BUEN PASTOR . It is a fantastic bakery in Cuesta San Blas 579, But much more than just great pasteries and rolls! The shop provides for a program to assist young women to have accomodation and be able to study for a career is run by the delightful hermana Irene. Go meet the girls they are such an inspiration. They start work in the bakery at 2am and just keep on working, all studying for a better positive future. These girls deserve all the support you can give ..so go... endulge! You are doing it for a better future for people who so deserve it!!

International travellers are strongly advised to take out full health insurance and should be prepared to pay up front for medical services.
1.- Clínica San Jose
Dirección: Avenida Los Incas, 1408 - Cusco - Cusco.
TEL: (084) 243367 / 253295 / 315445. CEL: 984 708270 / 984 708269.
2.- Clínica Pardo
Dirección: Avenida De la Cultura, 710 - Wanchaq - Cusco - Cusco.
TEL: (084) 240387 / 223242 / 249999. CEL: 984 708270 / 984 708269.
3.- Clínica Macsalud
Dirección: Avenida de la Cultura N° 1410 - Avenida los Incas N° 1415.
CEL: 984 569449. RPM: #637779.
4.- Clínica Peruano Suiza
Dirección: Avenida Oswaldo Baca - Mz. J - 8 Urb. Magisterio 1 Etapa Cusco.
TEL: (084) 242114 / 237009 / 237168. CEL: 984 703970 / 984 859647.
5.- Calca & Pisac Clinic : Pro Salud Calca since 2003.Tarapaca Street S/N Coya, Calca | Cusco – Peru
Telephone USA: 786 999 8284 Telephone Peru: (+51) 084 797493 Cellphone Peru: (+51)984 673814 | (+51)984 673815
In Calca also: Calle Puputi 146. Medical Network: 051 84 221213
6.-Medical Network Clinic: Calle Bellavista Huancaro C 11 Tel: 080026685

Yelow Fever Vaccination is recommended for travellers visiting jungle areas below 2,300m (7,546ft). Such as Puerto Maldonado, Manu National Park, Iquitos, Travellers who are only visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu do not require a vaccination.

A valid six-year passport is essential; it should be valid for at least six months after departure from Peru. There is currently no visa requirement for USA, UK, Canadian, Australian citizens. Other nationalities should check entry requirements. We advised you to contact the embassy to check visa requirements as especially for some countries such as South Africa, India, we have know of people having difficulties. It is not an issue we always have current information on and so please contact the embassy directly.

Only a few bureau de change in Lima and Cusco will exchange currencies other than US Dollars. Outside Lima, it is virtually impossible. US Dollars can be exchanged everywhere and banks, hotels and many shops also readily accept US Dollars (although very old, torn or damaged notes are usually rejected). It is not recommended to exchange money from street vendors, There are official Casa de Cambios in Sol Avuenue. Airport bank´s rates are bad so change only little money is necessary.
Money Currency New Sol (PEN; symbol S/.) = 100 céntimos. New Sol notes are in denominations of S/.200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of S/.5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 céntimos.
US Dollars are also in use and accepted for payment particularly in tourist areas, if not with any small tears. While effectively interchangeable, it is always good for tourists to have some local currency in small denominations, to pay for buses, taxis and goods in some small establishments.

All major credit cards are accepted, but usage may be limited outside of Lima and tourist areas. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted. ATMs are now generally regarded as one of the best ways to obtain money in Peru. BCP, BBVA Continental, Internank, located at Sol Avenues and Scottia Bank at Maruri Street Banking Hours Mon-Fri 09:00-18:00, Sat 0900-1300 (may vary during the summer).
Exchange Rate Indicators
1.00 GBP = 4.37 PEN
1.00 USD = 3.35 PEN
1.00 EUR = 3.83 PEN
Currency conversion rates as of 18 Nov 2015

Lightweights during summer days with much warmer clothes worn in upland areas, especially at night. Good fleeces are advised during cooler months. Rain gear is recommended during the rainy season, particularly in the Andes or Amazon. The main thing is use layering ..always have something with you to warm up quickly.

Telephone Country code: 51. City Code Cusco is 84 Telephone cards are available in the main cities from stands and supermarkets.

Roaming agreements exist with some international mobile phone companies. Mobile phones can be rented in Lima and the main cities. Coverage is sporadic.

Public Internet booths and Internet cafes are widely available in cities and most towns. Wi-Fi is becoming increasingly common in cafes, restaurants and hotels.

Airmail to Western Europe takes up to one week. Postal facilities are limited outside Lima. First-class airmail from Europe or North America addressed to PO boxes in Peru usually takes only a few days, but may be subject to delay. The main post office (Correo Central de Lima) is near the Plaza de Armas and in Cusco is on Ave el Sol. Post office opening hours: Mon-Fri 0800-2000; Sat 0900-1330. DHL located in Sol Avenue too is very expensive.

Getting Around By Air
LAN or LATAM www.lan.com
TACA www.taca.com
AVIANCA
Star Peru www.starperu.com
Peruvian airlines www.peruvianairlines.pe
Star Peru www.starperu.com
Amaszonas
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Getting Around by Rail
Peru Rail , Inca Rail
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Getting Around by Road
Cruz del Sur www.cruzdelsur.com.pe
Ormeño www.grupo-ormeno.com.pe

Taxi: Many unlicensed taxi companies are in operation and visitors are advised to avoid these.

Service charges of 10% are added to bills. Additional tips of 5-10% are expected in better restaurants, while rounding up the bill or adding a few Soles is appreciated in small restaurants.

Is the customary form of greeting. Kissing on one cheek between women and between women and men is common in coastal cities. Visitors should follow normal social courtesies and the atmosphere is generally informal. A small gift from a company or home country is sufficient. Dress is usually informal, although for some business meetings and social occasions men wear a jacket and tie.

Public Holidays
1 Jan New Year's Day.
1 Apr Maundy Thursday.
2 Apr Good Friday.
1 May Labour Day.
29 Jun St Peter's and St Paul's Day.
28-29 Jul Independence Day Celebrations.
30Aug St Rosa of Lima Day.
8 Oct Angamos Battle.
29 October Ollanta Fiesta.
1 Nov All Saints' Day.
8 Dec Immaculate Conception.
24 Dec Christmas Eve (half day).
25 Dec Christmas Day.

Drug trafficking is a serious crime in Peru and drug smugglers face long terms of imprisonment. Driving standards in Peru (particularly in Lima) are poor. Crashes resulting in death and injury occur frequently on local transport so tour class transport is recomended. Street demonstrations and protests are commonplace in Peru, frequently occurring suddenly and sometimes turning violent. You should avoid any area in which large crowds are gathering.

The Peruvian economy is divided into two distinct parts: a relatively modern industrial and service economy concentrated on the coastal plain, and a subsistence agricultural economy in the interior. Inevitably, one consequence has been huge migration from the interior to the coastal cities. Most foreign investment is directed towards Peru's major industry, mining, which accounts for about half of export earnings. Meanwhile, tourism has snowballed and now brings in more than US$1 billion annually.
During the early to mid 1990s, Peru implemented important market-oriented reforms, including privatisation of key industries, trade deregulation and measures to attract foreign investment. The strategy was reasonably successful, and the country's economy is relatively stable. Foreign investment is growing rapidly in the mining, agriculture and tourism sectors. The unemployment rate was 8.4% in Lima in 2008, but it is estimated that up to 40% of the general workforce are underemployed. Peru's annual growth was estimated to be 9.2% in 2008. The inflation rate was 6.7%. The passing of the Free Trade Agreement with the United States in January of 2009 is expected to spur considerable growth in the next decade.

Prohibited Exports
The export of artistic or cultural articles is prohibited.

You can see what is and isn’t included in our Inca Trail treks at the page for our Classic 4 Day/3 Night Inca Trail Trek. For other tour and trek types, see the relevant description and itinerary.

For Inca Trail treks, we’ll pick you up from your hostel or hotel at 5:30 a.m. We’ll then gather the group and meet at the Hotel Marqueses (located near the SAS Travel office) at 5:45 a.m., before departing at 6:00 a.m. from Plaza San Francisco. Please provide clear details of your accommodation in Cusco when you check in at our office. Your guides will also provide a “pre-trek briefing” the night before you set off along the Inca Trail.

We recommend that people try to arrive in Cusco two to three days before their trek begins. This allows adequate time for acclimatization to the altitude, and provides a buffer in case of transport delays. Once you have settled in and rested, please come to the Cusco office to review and reconfirm the information we have on record for you and your trek. We can then arrange any further personal requirements and you can sign the conditions (even if you have already paid in full).

On relatively rare occasion, local holidays or social unrest (demonstration, for example) may require last minute changes to departure times or the sharing of some additional information. We therefore have a short briefing at 7 p.m. the night before your trek, in which you’ll meet your guide and other group members and receive any rental equipment.

On the trek/tour, you should only bring with you the things you really want/need and leave the rest of your things with us. SAS Travel offers free luggage storage for all of our customers. If you have luggage that you wish to leave with us in Cusco then bring it to the meeting point on the morning of the departure. A SAS Travel Rep will take your things to be stored in the Hotel Marqueses (Calle Garcilaso 265; tel. 257819), which is right next door to our main SAS Travel office. You can then pick up your things from the safe storage in Hotel Marqueses any time after your trek (the hotel is open 24 hours). You must bring the tag given to you as a receipt when you first dropped off your items.

Please see the relevant trek or tour description and itinerary page for detailed information about what to pack for your excursion.

Yes, you can organize sleeping bag rental at the time of booking. A down sleeping bag (minus 8º Celsius) will cost US$ 25.00 for the entirety of your trek. Sleeping bags can weigh between 2 and 5 kg. You can also rent a 45 liter backpack ($20); a pair of trekking poles ($20); and/or a personal porter for carrying 8 kg ($80).

A sleeping mat is included in the cost of your trek, for the duration of your trek. It’s a fairly thick and bulky mat that weighs 1 kg -- we recommend that if you are travelling with a thermal-rest or technologically-advanced type of sleep mat then definitely bring that instead! You can also hire a thermal-rest mattress from us for an extra $20, for the duration of the trip.

Yes, you’ll share a tent with another person of the same sex. Or, if you prefer, you can pay a single supplement of US$70 and have a tent all for yourself, for the entire trek.

Yes, for paying for things like bottled water/drinks; a hot shower on the first night (10 soles); the natural hot springs in Aguas Calientes (10 soles); tips for your trekking staff; drinks and snacks at Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes etc. You should take at least 300 soles as emergency money that you’ll hopefully be able to take back with you to Cusco!

If you are particularly concerned about health issues, it may be prudent on your part to keep in mind that a train ride between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes costs about US$50 to $65. In the rare case that you need to leave the trail early, a second guide or assistant will help you. We won’t ever leave you stranded or alone.

SAS Travel has high standards for our guides. All of our top guides must be educated in the field of tourism; most of them have obtained a university degree, are trained in first aid assistance and completely fluent in English. Our guides are often one the most popular aspects of our tours, as some of them are historians and archaeologists.

We require a minimum of six people for our treks. Dates indicated as available on our calendar represent open groups that you are welcome to join. On average, our groups contain 10 to 12 trekkers. We can have up to 8 trekkers with one guide; for groups of 9 to 16 trekkers we have 2 licensed trekking guides. During low season the groups are more likely to be small and during high season the groups will likely be full. The INC has a rule in place that limits the amount of trekkers for 2 guides to 16 persons. If we are getting a lot of requests for a date and there are still a good number of permits available, we can easily open up a second group for the same date.

If you have not trekked in altitude before (3,000 meters to 4,215 meters / 9,842 feet to 13,828 feet) we would suggest you organize an extra porter. On average, 70% of travelers hire an extra porter. If you would like to have a porter carry your things, the service will cost $80.00 for the entire hike (for 8 kilos; a shared porter, as each porter carries 16 kg plus his gear). You will then only need to carry a small daypack with water, your camera, a snack, rain gear, etc. (basically, anything that you need to carry with you, as the porters do not walk alongside you).

SAS provides a duffle porter bag at the briefing the night before your hike. You should bring only what you absolutely need/want on the trek and store the rest of your belongings in Cusco (in your hotel or Hotel Marqueses, which offers free luggage storage). Unless you have hired an extra porter, you will need to carry your own backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping mattress, clothing, personal items and water for the day (boiled water is provided from Day 2 onwards).

Please note that there are fines and notifications for porters carrying in excess of 16 kg, so try to under-pack rather than over-pack. If it is overweight at the weighing station, items will have to be removed to reduce the weight.

Most people share this concern, but you shouldn’t worry. Only in extremely rare circumstances does a trekker need to come back early. You just need to remember that you are always allowed to go at a speed that is comfortable for you. Take your time, pace yourself, and enjoy the experience. One of the guides will always escort the slower participants in the group, and be there to help and assist!

The Inca Trail is considered a moderate hike. It's not a technical hike but there are a lot of Inca stairs to walk up and down, and the altitude may affect some individuals. We recommend using trekking poles... and have an early night before the trek!

For the Inca Trail trek more than any of the other treks, we DO recommend the use of trekking poles, especially for hikers with known knee problems. There are multiple times during the trek that a trekking poles is handy, be it ascending a mountain or walking down immense sets of Inca stairs. It will help with your balance and reduce the impact on your knees. SAS Travel and the INC ask that you do not use trekking poles with metal tips as they damage the trail. You can purchase rubber tips for metal poles from any local camping shop.

The Inca Trail is 46 km (28 miles) long. Here is an approximate breakdown according to our regular campsites:

Day 1: 12 kilometers (8.6 miles); 6-7 hours; Ayapata camp.
Day 2: 18 kilometers (10.9 miles); 7-8 hours (this day includes “Dead Woman’s Pass,” the highest pass on the trail at 4,200 m; this is the longest day).
Day 3: 10 km (7.3 miles); 5-6 hours.
Day 4: 6 Km and about 2 hours walking before arriving at Machu Picchu.

It's impossible to predict who will be affected by altitude. Your ability to adapt to high altitude is determined by your genetic make-up and has little to do with fitness or health. Most people will have no problems as long as they take the time to acclimatize properly. A full day spent in Cusco (3,399m), taking it very easy and drinking plenty of water, is enough for some people, but 2 to 3 days is ideal. The highest point along the classic Inca Trail is 4200 m/13,818 ft. You will sleep at 3,340 m/10,988 ft for two nights.

In the rare case that you are unable to finish the trek due health issues, SAS Travel will do everything in its power to get you to the nearest village, town or city where help is available (or where adequate transportation can be arranged). If the issue is respiratory or due to altitude, we do carry at least one tank of oxygen on the trek that you will have access to. In extreme cases, a helicopter pick up can be arranged at your own expense (therefore, travel Insurance is required).

No refunds are given if you are unable to finish the trek for health reasons. In general, if a trekker can’t make it over the pass on the 2nd day due to altitude sickness, they go back to Ollantaytambo accompanied by a porter (if sickness is mild) or guide (if more serious). If they recover from the altitude sickness, they stay the night in Ollantaytambo and then take the train to Aguas Calientes the next day (Day 3) and we look after them in Hostal Viajeros until they can rejoin their group at Machu Picchu early on Day 4 and continue the tour as normal. The additional cost for this situation (including train ticket and accommodation) is payable by the passenger and is usually between $60 and $100 total. A document for insurance purposes is provided for your claim.

Not a problem! SAS Travel is able to accommodate many types of dietary needs upon request at the time of booking. If you are a vegetarian, or cannot eat gluten or have allergies to certain foods, just let us know and we’ll prepare something appropriate. The meals our chefs prepare are yet another popular feature of our treks, and the quality will not be reduced when accommodating your dietary needs.

The meals are served buffet-style and you are able to choose what you would like to eat. Your guides will let you know what time the meals will be served. Our cooks prepare excellent high-energy meals appropriate for a trek of this nature. The menu usually includes quinoa, cereals, and vegetable soups, beef lomo saltado with rice, chicken casserole, fresh fruit and vegetables and a variety of oatmeal, eggs and other breakfast foods such as scrambled eggs and quinoa pancakes.

We recommend that you purchase a 1.5 or 2 liter bottle of water to take with you on the first day. Every night during the trek, we will boil water so you can refill the same bottle every morning before setting out. If you are planning to drink from any streams or waterfalls, we strongly suggest you bring water purification tablets or filters. Also, you will be able to buy water along the way on Day 1; for the first few hours of Day 2; and again on the afternoon of Day 3 -- and, of course, at Machu Picchu.

Several sites with toilets exist along the trail. Bring a roll of toilet paper. As far as other trash goes, please carry your own trash to each campsite where the porters will pack it up and take it out. Leave no trace! Please do not litter.

If you are thinking of bringing small children with you, we highly recommend arranging a private tour with us instead of going on a group service departure. That way, you can get the extra attention that you will require from the guide. Remembered that you might have a difficult time as it is, so if you have never done higher altitude trekking with your child before, you’ll want to carefully consider your enjoyment and the enjoyment of the child. Also, keep in mind that emergency rescue services are extremely limited while on the trail.

There is very little possibility that the INC (Park Office) will cancel a trek, even under extreme weather circumstances or worker strikes. Neither the INC nor SAS Travel can change the date of a trek if there is a general strike. We do everything possible to ensure you get to the trailhead to start the trek for the scheduled permit date; this makes it vital that we have correct contact details in case of a general strike, which can happen 4 or 5 times a year. No overland transport is allowed during these strikes, so the night before the trek/strike date we have to gather everyone together and drive to the trailhead area to camp so that the trek can go ahead the next day. In the case that a passenger decides to cancel the tour for whatever reason, you will just have to pay US$75 more and we can put you on a train to Aguas Calientes. That way you are still able to use the Machu Picchu entrance ticket to join your group for a tour of the site, and make use of the return train ticket.

The trail is perfectly safe during the rainy season. Some people actually like to go during the rainy season because there are fewer tourists. If you don’t mind the rain, then we say “Go for it!” Just make sure you bring good rain gear and waterproof boots.

During the “rainy season” (Dec 1 to May 1), it’s common to have some rain each day; in February, you can reasonably expect persistent rain every day -- and it could be heavy! In December and January you may just get some light continual showers or it could be fine followed by a heavy afternoon downpour (but in truth you could also have perfectly fine days). At the same time, it will also be noticeably warmer at night. The day times will get up to about 25 degrees Celsius, the low will be about 2 degrees Celsius.
On the other hand, during the “dry season” (June to Nov) the daytimes will seem strikingly like spring time, with bright and sunny skies, but it will be much colder at night. During the daytime you can expect it to be somewhere in the range of 20 to 30 degrees Celsius and at night it will be as low as 0 to -5 degrees Celsius.

It’s always best to dress in layers, whatever the time of year. This will make it easy to quickly put on extra layers when you get cold, or shed them and put them in your day pack when you get hot -- without having to stop and completely change your outfit!

For a group of 16 trekkers (our maximum), our typical trekking staff comprises: 1 guide, 1 assistant guide, 1 cook, 1 assistant cook, 1 general assistant in charge of setting up the campsites, and 18 porters or carriers. If the group is 8 or less then it will have 1 guide, 1 cook, 1 general assistant and 12 porters or carriers.

Tips for the above-mentioned trekking staff are not included in the price of the trek. Tips are optional, not mandatory. Generally tips are distributed among the trekking staff (except the guide and the assistant guide) on the third night of the trek at Wiñaywayna camp after the evening meal, since these trekking staff will not accompany the group to Machu Picchu.
On the third night at dinner time, someone from the group is usually elected to collect the tips. Please remember to take plenty of small denomination bills in Peruvian Soles. We recommend that the cook should receive about 50% more than the other trekking staff. The money should be paid directly to each individual or representative of porters rather than given to the guide or cook.

Deciding how much to tip is always a difficult and sometimes uncomfortable decision. SAS Travel pay our trek staff fairly and treat them with respect and try to provide good working conditions. We think that a tip should not be used to subsidize a poor wage but should be a way to show the staff that you have enjoyed the trek and appreciated the services they have provided. The tip should therefore be optional and not mandatory. However, if you have enjoyed the service, we recommend that each person in the group contributes between 80 to 110 soles (US$ 30-40 ) to a “pot” which is then distributed amongst the cook, assistant cook, general assistant and porters. This should ensure that each person will receive a tip of about US$15 and the cook around US$30. Obviously, if you want to tip more please do so.

The assistant guide will accompany the group to Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes. He is in charge of getting the passes for climbing Huaynapicchu. We therefore recommend that you tip the assistant guide at the lunch time on the fourth day in Aguas Calientes, at the Hotel Viajeros. We suggest that each person in the group tips the assistant guide between 15 and 20 soles. (US$5-7) Again, tips are optional not mandatory and dependent on the level of service provided. Feel free to tip more if you like.

The guide will accompany the group throughout the tour including Machu Picchu. We recommend that you tip the guide after the tour in Machu Picchu, during lunch at Hotel Viajeros in Aguas Calientes. We suggest that each person in the group tips the main guide between 18 and 28 soles (US$8-10) Again, tips are optional, not mandatory, and dependent on the level of service provided.

If you think that you have received poor service, you are under no obligation to pay a tip. The trekking team will soon get the message. Please pay tips in cash and do not pay in kind such as in beers etc. We have tried to be as clear as possible about tipping but we understand that this is a complicated issue when many different cultures and lifestyles come together.

The procedure and amounts listed above have been written in conjunction with our guides and trekking staff. We accept that not all of our clients will be in agreement with this information. It is important that you tip the amount that you feel comfortable with. Please try not to let the procedure stress you or cause anyone to feel badly towards other members of the group who wish to pay less than the recommended amount (or decide not to pay a tip at all).

In truth, you will not see a typical sunrise. As long as there’s not too much mist or low cloud, then you will see the first light illuminating Machu Picchu -- but it’s actually after dawn and therefore not a genuine sunrise, as the sun must first rise up over the high mountains surrounding Machu Picchu.

If you want to include an ascent of Huaynapicchu in your visit to Machu Picchu, note that the trail up the peak is safe but very vertical and requires a round-trip of about an hour and a half. Also be aware that current regulations dictate that permits must be bought in advance. If you want us to organize your permit to climb Huaynapicchu, we must have this request in writing and confirmed at the time of your Inca Trail booking, indicating you will pay the extra amount for this permit. The deposit for a classic Inca Trail trek including the Huaynapicchu permit is $375 cash instead of $300.

If you want to climb Huaynapicchu, consider our Inca Trail 4 Day/4 Night option (with a morning train to Ollantaytambo on the fifth day) and our Inca Trail 5 Day/4 Night plus Huaynapicchu & Aguas Calientes option, both of which give you more time to explore Machu Picchu and ascend Huaynapicchu.

Your guided tour of the ruins will last approximately 2 to 3 hours, after which you’ll have 2 to 3 hours more to explore Machu Picchu on your own. If you have a permit, you can climb Huaynapicchu. After the guided portion, your guide will give you a bus ticket for the transfer down to Aguas Calientes. You can take the bus any time you like, but keep in mind we will be serving a buffet lunch at the Hotel Viajeros starting at 1.45 p.m. If you choose to skip the lunch, then you just need to be down in time for your train ride back to Cusco.

Our Inca Trail 4 Day/4 Night Group Service is the regular Inca Trail 4D/3N plus one additional night (based on double/triple accommodation) in Aguas Calientes at Hotel Viajeros (or similar level accommodation).

The extra night after visiting Machu Picchu means you can take advantage of the relaxing jungle ambiance of Aguas Calientes. There are also more trails to explore, including the Putukusi Trail, which leads to a summit with amazing view of Machu Picchu and Huaynapicchu Mountain. Or you can recover from your trekking by soaking in the natural hot springs (10 soles). The soothing, naturally heated waters are said to possess healing properties.

You generally arrive back in Cusco around 8.30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Don`t expect to be able to book a flight out of Cusco on the same night as your return to Cusco, as flights do not exist after 4.30 p.m.

Many of our travelers request a later train so they can spend the full day at Machu Picchu, climb Haynapicchu, or visit the natural hot baths (after which the town of Aguas Calientes is named). We therefore generally reserve a late afternoon train around 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. for our trekkers. Occasionally it is direct to Cusco, but otherwise the service is to Ollantaytambo with a private bus transfer onwards to Cusco. These reservations are only confirmed by Peru Rail six days in advance. During high season and holidays, when demand exceeds availability, we will always try to obtain tickets for an earlier service rather than one late at night for a more comfortable return trip to Cusco.

Often passengers decide to stay a further night in Aguas Calientes instead of returning on the fourth night. This is fine, and we can coordinate your accommodation, but you’ll have to change your train tickets yourself, in person at the Peru Rail office in Aguas Calientes, with proof of identity (i.e. your original passport). They will charge a fee for the date changes, and coach options will be subject to availability.

One of the main reasons to choose a private trek is that you don’t need to worry about which dates we have departures set for, or if our departures have enough space. Your only concern is whether or not there are permits available. You can choose almost any date you want if permits are available.

In addition to the convenience and flexibility in booking, the private option provides a more personal trip experience for your group. We will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. The guide will focus all of his energy and attention on your group. You can also be more specific about the foods you would like to be served during the trek. It is truly a wonderful experience to go on such an amazing journey with only your friends and loved ones. Ask a SAS Rep how you can arrange your own private tour.

ISIC stands for “International Student Identity Card” and is the internationally accepted form of student identification. Peru’s National Institute of Culture (INC) accepts ISIC for discounts.

The discount isn’t directly offered by SAS Travel, but is offered by the INC, with SAS Travel passing the discount on to you. For that reason, it absolutely necessary that we have a scan of your card in hand when we go to purchase your permits. If you didn’t send us a copy of your student card with the initial booking, then make sure to note on the registration form that you have one and will send the scan as soon as possible. We’ll then know to try and wait before we purchase the permit

The only time you can change your dates with no penalty charge is if we haven’t purchased your permit yet. We usually try to purchase the permits a few days -- at most -- after your deposit is paid, depending on the urgency of the situation. The only time we don’t get them within a few days is when you have reserved a date more than 6 months ahead of time. Therefore, if we do not already have your permit you can change your date. If we already have your permit, you’ll have to pay a fee of US$150 in order to change the date -- and the new date must be available.

The INC requires a valid passport in order to issue your Inca Trail permit. Ideally, you’ll be able to arrange a new passport beforehand. It is possible to book using your old passport number, after which we can do the paperwork to change it, for an extra cost of US$15 per person.

We usually only charge the deposit of your Inca Trail to the card to confirm your booking. The rest is paid, in cash, when you arrive in Cusco. If you choose to pay with a credit card, you’ll need to pay a 5% commission. The listed prices for our tours are for cash payment. You can withdraw US$ from ATMs in Cusco, of which there are many. Some people prefer to pay the full balance by Western Union or bank transfer before setting off on their travels, mainly to avoid carrying cash and spending time finalizing things when they arrive. Let us know if you’d prefer this option.

It is very important that you pay for your online reservation immediately as permits could run out if you do not do so right away. You normally just follow the instructions available when making your reservation, but if you have let some time lapse then please enter this site immediately to make your deposit of $300 per reservation:
The site will take you through the online payment instructions step by step. Please use the deposit code as your reservation code. You can find more payment options here, including PayPal. If all is correct and you have read the conditions sent in the other email, you can click on Pay Visa. Your details will then be verified and you will receive a confirmation message on the site and by email. You can then forward this email to us so we can confirm your reservation.