Machu Picchu by Train Independent Adventure - Upgraded - 3 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the main focus of this tour?

  This comfortable and compact adventure focuses on experiencing Machu Picchu by train, embracing cultures past and present in the hills surrounding Cusco, and delighting in the amazing views of the Sacred Valley.

• What kind of accommodation is provided on the tour?

  The tour includes upgraded hotels for two nights. Single travelers will have their own room, while two or more travelers will share twin rooms. Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Peru, even in upgraded hotels.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2 (on a scale of 1-5, with 1 being the easiest). Travelers must have an average level of fitness and mobility, able to walk without assistance, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. The adventure also travels to high altitude (over 8,000 feet / 2,440 meters).

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, two breakfasts and one lunch are included. Generally, other meals are not included to give you flexibility in choosing where and what to eat, though food is typically inexpensive.

• What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

  Transportation includes scenic train rides, buses, and walking. Many land transfers and included tours will be by private van, car, or taxi, while others may be shared with other travelers.

• Will there be a tour guide during the adventure?

  Yes, G Representatives are available in Cusco, and a specialist Inca Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will provide a detailed guided tour of Machu Picchu. For included tours, you will be accompanied by an English-speaking local guide.

• What specific cultural experiences are included in the itinerary?

  The tour includes a guided tour of the Sacred Valley, a visit to a women's weaving co-op supported by the tour operator, and lunch at the tour operator-supported Parwa community restaurant in Huchuy Qosco.

• Are there any specific regulations for visiting Machu Picchu?

  Yes, current and correct passport details are required at the time of confirmation. Regulations have been implemented for all visitors to Machu Picchu which require different circuits to be followed within the site, meaning members of the same group might visit on different routes.

• What currency should I use in Peru and what are the recommendations for money?

  The currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol (PEN). Credit cards and debit cards are useful for cash advances, but it's best to carry a combination of US dollar cash and cards. Please note that slightly torn, heavily marked, or faded notes may be difficult to exchange.

• Are there any optional activities available in Cusco?

  Yes, optional activities available in Cusco include a Cusco City Tour (approx. 45 PEN), purchasing a Cusco Tourist Ticket (approx. 130 PEN), and visiting the Inka Museum (approx. 10 PEN).

• Is tipping customary in Peru?

  Yes, it is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters and local guides approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program.

• Is an emergency fund recommended for this tour?

  Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used if circumstances outside our control require a change to the planned route.

• What is the age range for this tour?

  The minimum age for this tour is 12 and the maximum age is 100.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 25 participants.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  You will be staying in upgraded hotels for two nights. Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Peru.

• What is the rooming arrangement for solo travelers or groups?

  Single travelers will have their own room throughout the tour. If you are traveling with two or more people, you will be sharing twin rooms.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Two breakfasts and one lunch are included. Generally, other meals are not included to give you flexibility in deciding where and what to eat, though food is typically inexpensive.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  The tour utilizes various modes of transport including train, bus, and walking.

• Will there be a guide accompanying the tour?

  Yes, G Representatives are available in Cusco, and a specialist Inca Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will guide you for Machu Picchu. Many included tours will have an English-speaking local guide, while transfers may have a local non-English speaking driver.

• What cultural experiences are included in the tour?

  The tour includes a visit to a local women's weaving co-op and lunch at the Parwa community restaurant in Huchuy Qosco, both supported by the tour operator's G for Good initiative.

• What is the main activity at Machu Picchu?

  A scenic train ride through the Urubamba Valley and a detailed guided tour of the Machu Picchu site with a local guide are the main activities.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2. Travelers must be able to walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum.

• Does this tour involve high altitude?

  Yes, this adventure travels to high altitude, defined as anything over 8,000 feet (2,440 meters). It is recommended to consult your physician for up-to-date medical travel information and advice on preparing for high altitude.

• What currency is used in Peru and what are the recommendations for money?

  The currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol (PEN). Credit cards (especially Visa) and debit cards are useful for cash advances, but it's best to bring a combination of US dollar cash (in good condition, in denominations lower than 100USD) and cards, as card acceptance is not guaranteed everywhere.

• Is tipping customary in Peru?

  Yes, it is customary to tip service providers such as waiters and local guides approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour.

• Are there any specific regulations for visiting Machu Picchu?

  Current and correct passport details are required at the time of confirmation. Also, new regulations require different circuits to be followed within the site, meaning members of the same group might visit Machu Picchu on different routes.

• Is an emergency fund recommended for this tour?

  Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund, for use when circumstances outside of control require a change to the planned route.

• Is it advisable to arrive in Cusco before the tour starts?

  Yes, it is highly recommended to arrive in Cusco a couple of days prior to the tour to acclimatize to the altitude and explore the city. A hotel night in Cusco is not included on day one.

• Are airport transfers included in the tour?

  Arrival and departure transfers are included if you book your pre- and/or post-tour accommodation through the tour operator to ensure continuity of services. If booked on your own, you will need to arrange your own way to the starting hotel.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this independent adventure is 25 participants.

• Are international flights included?

  No, international flights are not included in the tour price.