Classic Peru - 12 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  This tour focuses on the archaeological highlights and cultural treasures of the Andean highlands. Key experiences include a Lake Titicaca homestay, hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, exploring ancient ruins and villages, and sampling the seafood in Lima.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  The tour includes 7 nights in hotels/guesthouses, 3 nights camping, and 1 night in a homestay. Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Peru.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, the tour includes 11 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners. Generally, meals are not included when there are diverse eating options to provide flexibility, but groups often eat together.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 4, indicating a moderate to challenging level of activity.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average of 10.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  The minimum age for minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old is 12. You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied.

• Are there any special considerations for solo travelers?

  Single travelers on group trips are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, and there is no single supplement. Exceptions apply for 'My Own Room' requests on Inca Trail nights due to camping.

• What types of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes public bus, private van, plane, train, boat, and hiking.

• Are local flights included in the tour?

  Yes, all local flights within Peru are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted.

• What should I know about altitude sickness on this trip?

  The adventure travels to high altitude, medically defined as anything over 8,000 feet (2,440 meters). Most people can travel to 8,000 feet with minimal effects, but everyone reacts differently. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, headaches, lethargy, and reduced appetite, especially in places like Puno (3,827m altitude). It's advised to take it easy, reduce alcohol and cigarette consumption, and drink plenty of water.

• What if I don't want to hike the Inca Trail?

  If you prefer not to hike the Inca Trail, you can advise at the time of booking. Instead, you will have 2 nights in Cusco, travel by train for a night in Aguas Calientes, and join the hikers for the Machu Picchu tour.

• Is the Inca Trail open all year round?

  Portions of the Inca Trail are closed for general maintenance during February each year. During these periods, any tour affected will hike the Lares Trek instead. Closures may also occur due to inclement weather or other unforeseen conditions.

• What is the porter weight limit for personal belongings on the Inca Trail?

  Porters are allowed to carry no more than 6kg of personal belongings per hiker for the Inca Trail (this includes your sleeping bag, toiletries, clothing, etc.) in a duffle bag provided by the local office. Any additional weight must be carried by you in your day pack.

• What is the local currency and are credit cards widely accepted?

  The currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol (PEN). Credit cards and debit cards, especially Visa, are useful for cash advances and are widely accepted in many places. However, it's advised not to rely solely on cards, as there's no guarantee they will work everywhere, and a 5-10% fee may apply for credit card purchases. Bringing a combination of PEN cash and cards is recommended, with notes in good condition and denominations lower than 100USD.

• Is tipping customary in Peru?

  Yes, tipping service providers like waiters (approximately 10%) is customary. For local guides and drivers, recommendations range from $5-10 USD per day. For the Inca Trail trekking crew, suggested contributions to a collective pool are 15-30 USD for the Head guide, 10-20 USD for the Assistant guide, and 40 USD for the trekking crew per hiker. Tipping your CEO is also appreciated, with a guideline of $20-25 USD per person, per week.

• What kind of support will I receive from the group leader?

  All group trips are accompanied by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) who handles logistics, provides information on destinations, suggests activities and local dining, and introduces you to local contacts. Specialist Inca Trail CEOs and local guides are also utilized for their specific expertise.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, optional activities are available in various locations. These include cooking classes and city tours in Lima and Cusco, visits to Sillustani burial sites in Puno, kayaking on Lake Titicaca, a hike to Ollantaytambo storehouses, and active options like mountain biking or horseback riding in Cusco, as well as the Rainbow Mountain hike.

• What do I need to know about safety and security on my trip?

  It is recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. Your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel parts of the itinerary if necessary due to safety concerns. While cities are generally safe during the day, it is recommended to travel in small groups and use taxis at night. Be aware of protests and demonstrations, and exercise good judgment for any optional activities.

• What is the policy on illegal drugs and unethical behavior?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and put the group at risk. The exploitation of prostitutes is also strictly against the tour's philosophy of respect. CEOs have the right to expel any group member found in possession of drugs or engaging in such behavior.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 travelers, with an average group size of 10.

• What are the age requirements to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Are there extra costs for solo travelers?

  There is no single supplement for shared accommodation on our group trips; solo travelers are paired with someone of the same sex. However, 'My Own Room' options are not available for the 3 nights spent camping on the Inca Trail.

• What types of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  Accommodation includes hotels/guesthouses for 7 nights, camping for 3 nights, and a homestay for 1 night. Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be common in Peru, and some two-story hotels may not have elevators.

• What is the physical rating of this tour and what level of fitness is required?

  This tour has a physical rating of 4. An average level of fitness and mobility is required, including the ability to walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry your own luggage. The trip involves high altitude (over 2,440 meters or 8,000 feet).

• What should I know about high altitude on this trip?

  The adventure travels to high altitude (over 2,440 meters / 8,000 feet). Everyone reacts differently to altitude, and symptoms like shortness of breath and headaches are common. It's recommended to take it easy for the first day or two, reduce alcohol/cigarette consumption, and drink plenty of water. Consult your physician for advice on how to best prepare.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  A Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you throughout the trip, along with a specialist Inca Trail CEO for the hike, and various local guides.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, all local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important to provide your passport information at the time of booking to process these tickets.

• Are international flights included in the trip price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. Please contact your booking agent for details on any exceptions for combo tours.

• What is the currency in Peru and what should I know about money exchange and credit cards?

  The currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol (PEN). Credit and debit cards (especially Visa) are useful for cash advances, though their functionality cannot be guaranteed everywhere. A 5-10% fee usually applies for credit card purchases. It's best to carry a combination of PEN cash and cards, and bring notes in good condition (denominations lower than $100 USD are best). Traveler's cheques are not recommended.

• Is there an emergency fund recommendation for this trip?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What are the visa and health certificate requirements?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. It is your responsibility to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements. A Yellow Fever certificate may also be required upon entering the country; consult your local health expert for advice on necessary inoculations.

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  Optional activities include a Lima Cooking Class or City Tour, a visit to the Sillustani burial site in Puno, Lake Titicaca Kayaking, a hike to Ollantaytambo storehouses, and various activities in Cusco such as Mountain Biking, Horseback Riding, a Cooking Class, a Rainbow Mountain hike, Inka Museum, and a City Tour.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include experiencing a homestay on Lake Titicaca, hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, sampling seafood in Lima, and exploring ancient ruins and villages.

• What safety and security considerations should I be aware of?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. Be cautious when wandering in central Lima, as some areas can be dangerous and pickpockets operate. During free time, use good judgment for activities and consider taking taxis at night. Avoid protests and always participate in water-based activities with a guide.

• Are laundry facilities available?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. You may also need to do your own laundry, so bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested.

• What are the guidelines for tipping on this trip?

  Tipping is customary in Latin America. For service providers like waiters, approximately 10% is recommended. For drivers and local guides, $5-10 USD per day is a guideline. For the Inca Trail, a collective pool tip is suggested: Head guide ($15-30 USD), Assistant guide ($10-20 USD), and Trekking crew ($40 USD per hiker). For your CEO, a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week is appreciated.

• What should I know about the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu regulations?

  Inca Trail and Machu Picchu regulations are subject to change, and current passport details are required upon confirmation. Machu Picchu uses circuit-based entrance tickets; Inca Trail hikers will follow Circuit 5 and have access to the panoramic viewpoint from the Sun Gate. The Inca Trail is closed for maintenance in February each year, during which affected tours will hike the Lares Trek. Porters on the Inca Trail will carry up to 6kg of personal belongings per hiker in a provided duffle bag.

• Will there be Wi-Fi or cellular service on the Inca Trail?

  Please note that there will be no Wi-Fi and limited cellular service available for much of the trek on the Inca Trail.

• What are the rules regarding drugs and inappropriate conduct?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and put the group at risk. The exploitation of prostitutes is also contrary to the tour's philosophy. Group leaders have the right to expel any member for these offenses.