Peru Family Journey: The Amazon & Machu Picchu - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the age requirements for participants on this family journey?

  This Family Journey is designed for groups traveling with children between the ages of 7 and 17. Your group must include a child to book, and anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 22 participants.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the trip?

  Accommodation includes 6 nights in hotels and 2 nights in an Amazon Lodge. Please note that hotel/lodge standards can differ from what you are used to in your home country.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners.

• What are some of the main highlights of the Peru Family Journey: The Amazon & Machu Picchu tour?

  Highlights include discovering the biodiversity of the Peruvian Amazon and exploring rainforest trails, visiting a traditional ceramic-making community and a community-run restaurant to experience Andean culture, venturing into mysterious Machu Picchu, and learning about the constellations of the Southern Hemisphere at the Cusco Planetarium.

• Who will be leading our group during the tour?

  Your group will be led by two National Geographic Expedition Leaders throughout the journey, supplemented by local guides.

• What modes of transportation will be used during the trip?

  The trip will utilize private vans, planes, trains, and boats for transportation between destinations and included activities.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

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

• Are local flights within Peru included?

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

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must be covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.

• What currency is used in Peru and what should I know about money exchange?

  The currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol (PEN). Credit cards (especially Visa) are useful, but a fee of 5-10% usually applies for purchases. It's best to carry a combination of cash and cards. Traveler's cheques are not recommended. Bring notes in good condition, preferably lower than 100USD (or equivalent) denominations.

• Are tips included in the tour price?

  Local tipping is included for activities, local guides, drivers, and gratuity for included meals. Tipping for your two Expedition Leaders is appreciated at the end of your trip, with a guideline of $3-5 USD per person, per day, per Expedition Leader. For non-included meals in restaurants, a guideline is 10% of the bill.

• Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

  Yes, optional activities in Lima include a Lima Cooking Class (4 hours) and a Lima City Tour (40 USD per person).

• What is Planeterra and how does it relate to this tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, ensuring 100% of your donation brings opportunity to people in need. This tour includes 'G for Good Moments' which are Planeterra-supported projects.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers on this tour?

  No, there is no single supplement. The tour is designed for shared accommodation, and odd numbers of adult travelers in your family will be paired in twin accommodation with another adult traveler of the same sex.

• Are there any specific safety considerations for travelers?

  Care should be taken when wandering around on your own in central Lima, as some areas can be dangerous and pickpockets are daring.

• What health considerations should I know before traveling, especially regarding altitude?

  You should consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and inoculations well before departure. This adventure travels to high altitude (over 8,000 feet / 2,440 meters). Everyone reacts to altitude differently, and altitude sickness can occur regardless of fitness or age. Consult your physician on how to best prepare.

• What are the specific requirements for visiting Machu Picchu?

  Machu Picchu regulations require all visitors to follow a pre-determined circuit within the site to prevent overcrowding. Circuit-specific entrance tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. You may select your preferred circuit at the time of booking, subject to availability.

• Do I need to pay a departure tax?

  Most airlines include departure tax in the cost of the ticket. If this is not included, it should be mentioned in your flight booking confirmation.

• Do I need an emergency fund?

  Yes, please ensure you 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 our planned route.