Peru: The Soul of Cusco & Machu Picchu by Train - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include exploring the Inca ruins of Pisaq and Ollantaytambo, connecting with local communities in the Sacred Valley, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and visiting the Maras salt pans and Moray archaeological site.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16, with an average of 12 travellers.

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

  Accommodation will be in hotels for all 8 nights. Please be aware that hot water shortages and power outages can be common in Peru, even in upgraded hotels. Some two-story properties may not have elevators.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 6 dinners.

• Is there a single supplement for solo travellers?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Solo travellers are paired with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive a single room for all night stops.

• What are the health and physical considerations for this trip, especially regarding altitude?

  This adventure travels to high altitude (over 2,440 meters or 8,000 feet), and reactions vary by individual. It is essential to consult your physician for advice on preparation and inoculations. You should also carry a personal first-aid kit.

• Is an emergency fund recommended for this trip?

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

• What is the local currency and what are the best payment methods?

  The currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol (PEN). A combination of cash and credit/debit cards (Visa is widely accepted) is best. Be aware of potential 5-10% fees for credit card purchases and that some ATMs may not work. It's best to bring notes in good condition, in denominations lower than 100USD. Spending money for drinks, shopping, and personal tipping will vary by individual.

• Is tipping included in the tour price?

  Tipping for all included activities and meals is covered on Geluxe Collection tours. However, tipping for your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and porterage is not included. A guideline of $10-15 USD per person per day for the CEO is suggested. For non-included meals and activities, a 10% tip is customary.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

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

• Are domestic flight taxes included for foreign travellers in Peru?

  Foreign travellers are exempt from domestic flight taxes in Peru, but must provide their international ticket number (ITN) at least 30 days prior to Day 1 of the tour to avoid being charged this tax.

• What should I know about visiting Machu Picchu on this tour?

  Due to regulations, visitors must follow pre-determined circuits within Machu Picchu. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and while efforts are made to keep groups together, it's possible that members might visit on different circuits. All circuits offer the opportunity to enjoy the site.

• Are there any specific considerations for traveling during the wet season?

  During the wet season (January - April), severe rain may make some Inca Trail campsites unusable. In the interest of safety, local changes to the trekking itinerary may occur if conditions are assessed as unsafe.

• Who will lead the tour and what is their role?

  The tour will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, supplemented by local guides. The CEO manages the trip, provides information, suggestions, and introduces local experiences, while local guides offer specialized knowledge.

• What forms of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation methods include public bus, private van, train, and walking.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have a minimum coverage of USD200,000 for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation. It is strongly recommended to also cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Peru?

  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 and entry requirements for Peru.

• What are the safety and security recommendations for this trip?

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice, use a neck wallet or money belt, and leave valuable jewelry at home. Hotel safety deposit boxes are available. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety reasons. Use good judgment for optional activities and be cautious when exploring cities at night, ideally in groups and using taxis. Water-based activities are at your own risk.

• Are there any specific rules or codes of conduct for participants?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and endanger the group. Exploitation in the sex trade is also strictly prohibited. Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) have the right to expel any member violating these rules.

• Are laundry facilities available during the trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. It is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap if you plan to do your own laundry.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency during the tour?

  In a dire emergency, first contact the local representative or the tour operator's local office in Lima, Peru. Specific emergency contact numbers, including an after-hours line and international sales team contacts, are provided.

• What if my complimentary arrival transfer doesn't show up?

  If your pre-booked arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes of exiting the arrivals area, you should take a taxi to your starting hotel and apply for a refund of the transfer cost upon your return.

• What is Planeterra and how does this tour support local communities?

  Planeterra is a non-profit foundation committed to turning travel into impact by connecting local communities to tourism benefits through community-owned businesses. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs. Travellers can also participate in the optional 'Dollar-a-day Program' to contribute directly.

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  This tour highlights include exploring the Inca ruins of Pisaq, connecting with locals in the Sacred Valley, a guided visit to Machu Picchu's sacred temples and terraces, and marveling at the Maras salt pans and Moray's circular ruins.

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

  Accommodation will be in hotels for all 8 nights. Please be aware that hot water shortages and power outages can be common in Peru, even in upgraded hotels, and properties with only two stories may not have elevators.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 6 dinners. Breakfasts are typically basic (toast, coffee, tea) and other meals are often left flexible for personal choice, though groups tend to eat together.

• How large will the group be?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average of 12.

• Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?

  Solo travellers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex at no extra cost. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive a single room for all night stops.

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

  This adventure travels to high altitude (over 8,000 feet or 2,440 meters). While most people adapt with minimal effects, everyone reacts differently. Consult your physician for advice on how to prepare and what to do if you are affected.

• What is the local currency 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 ATM functionality can vary. A 5-10% fee may apply to credit card purchases. It's best to carry a combination of cash and cards, and bring notes in good condition and smaller denominations (under 100USD). Traveller's cheques are not recommended.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

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

• Is tipping included or expected on this tour?

  Tipping is included for all included activities and meals. However, it is not included for your CEO (Chief Experience Officer) or for porterage. For the CEO, a guideline of $10-15 USD per person, per day is suggested. For meals and activities not included in your itinerary, a 10% tip is appropriate and expected in Latin America.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation on this tour includes public bus, private van, train, and walking.

• Are there any specific regulations for visiting Machu Picchu?

  Yes, Machu Picchu regulations require all visitors to follow a pre-determined circuit within the site to prevent overcrowding. Entrance tickets are circuit-specific and available on a first-come, first-served basis. While efforts are made for groups to stay together, it's possible members may visit on different circuits. Travellers completing the Inca Trail will be assigned Circuit 3.

• Are there any optional activities available on this trip?

  In Cusco, an optional visit to the Inka Museum is available for 10PEN per person.

• Who will be leading the group?

  The trip will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, with additional local guides providing specific knowledge for certain sites.

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

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave valuable jewellery at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. Always lock your luggage. The CEO can amend the itinerary for safety reasons. Optional activities undertaken in free time are at your own risk. When exploring cities at night, stay in small groups and use taxis.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour. You should contact your airline for up-to-date baggage and check-in information.

• Are there any health considerations or vaccinations required for this trip?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor well before departure for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations, including checking for Yellow Fever certificate requirements. A First Aid kit and hand sanitizers are recommended. Please note that tour leaders are prohibited from administering medication.

• Are laundry facilities available on the tour?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. Bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested for personal handwashing.

• What is the Planeterra Foundation?

  The Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that turns travel into impact by helping local communities earn income from tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses, integrating them into itineraries globally. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs.