Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
To comply with the regulations in Peru, it is mandatory to possess a valid passport, which serves as an official identification document. However, individuals holding Identity Cards from member countries of the Andean Community, namely Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Colombia, are exempted from this requirement.
It is highly recommended to conduct research beforehand and verify whether a visa is required or if there are any particular restrictions to be considered. to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into Peru.
The official currency of Peru is the Nuevo Sol, commonly referred to as “Sol”, and it is represented by banknotes in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 Nuevos Soles, as well as coins in values of 10, 20, and 50 cents, and 1, 2, and 5 Nuevos Soles.
In some highly frequented tourist destinations, selected hotels and stores may accept payment in US Dollars, although the most advisable currency to carry for a seamless experience would be the US Dollar.To facilitate currency exchange transactions, numerous banks and exchange houses are available across Peru, with US Dollars being the most easily exchanged currency. ATMs are also available in all cities, connected to international networks such as Plus (Visa), Cirrus (Master Card /Maestro), American Express, and Dinner Club, among others.
Yes, you need it if you go out of your comfort zone during your trip: activities outside of conventional tourist zones, such as trekking, volunteering, visiting traditional markets, among others.
The most effective approach to acclimatization is to shift your focus away from the fear of altitude sickness and instead concentrate on the exciting experiences and adventures that await you. By adopting this mindset, individuals can mitigate the onset of altitude sickness, as evidenced by the power of the placebo effect.
Furthermore, ascending and descending gradually is essential for acclimatization. Our itineraries are thoughtfully designed to ensure gradual ascents to appropriate altitudes, followed by a descent on the same day to sleep or camp at a lower altitude. This technique, combined with frequent hydration and the consumption of traditional Andean remedies such as coca leaf, muña, and other shamanic secrets, has proven effective for generations.
So, simply relax and look forward to the unique experiences that await you, while allowing our team of professionals to handle the logistics of your vacation.
The optimal season to visit Peru is generally between April and October, which is commonly referred to as the dry season. During this time, there is typically very little rainfall, accounting for only 5% of precipitation in the country.
It is worth noting that Peru’s geographic location makes it difficult to predict the weather, and it is not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single day. Nevertheless, the country’s weather is generally divided into two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season, which typically lasts from November to March. The strongest rainfall is usually experienced in January and February.
However, regardless of the season, Peru offers unique and breathtaking natural experiences. By embracing the sun, earth, air, and water that give life, visitors can enjoy the beauty of Peru and create unforgettable memories. Give you the experience never imagined with us
There are several ways to get to Machupicchu, and the only way to get there directly is through expeditions along the Inka trails. Other treks and the most frequent way is by train. With these options, you arrive in the town of Aguas Calientes and then take a bus for 30 minutes to get to Machupicchu.
The train stations we have are:
- Ollantaytambo Station: approximately 2 hours driving from the city of Cusco and approximately 2 hours by train to get to Aguas Calientes.
- Poroy Station: approximately 30 minutes from Cusco city and approximately 4 hours by train to Aguas Calientes.
- Urubamba Station: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes driving from Cusco city and approximately 3 hours by train to Aguas Calientes.
- Hidroelectrica Station: approximately 7 hours driving from Cusco city and approximately 40 minutes to Aguas Calientes. It is more like an optional route.
With the Inca Trail of 5, 4, or 2 days, you arrive directly to Machupicchu, and with other treks like Salkantay, Inka Jungle, and even other treks that require train, you arrive in Aguas Calientes. Then, you take the bus or walk to get to Machupicchu.
The Inka city of Machupicchu is situated between two mountains, namely Waynapicchu and Machupicchu Mountain:
- Waynapicchu Mountain: Which stands at 2670 meters above sea level, is the large mountain located to the north of the city. It requires an ascent of around 40 meters to reach its summit where Inka constructions can be observed. From the top, there is a panoramic view of the Inka city and the surrounding landscape, with the city appearing in the shape of a condor that is turning to the right. At the start of the ascent, there is also a detour to the left that leads to the temple of the moon. The hike to the temple of the moon takes approximately 3 hours.
- Machupicchu Mountain: On the other hand, Machupicchu Mountain is situated to the south of the Inka city and is the tallest peak, standing at 3089 meters above sea level. It offers a broader view of Machupicchu city, Waynapicchu Mountain, and even the most prominent glaciers in the distance. The ascent to Machupicchu Mountain takes around 1.5 hours.
Access to these mountains is subject to limited availability and requires advance reservation. Thus, it is optional for visitors.
Machupicchu opens its doors to visitors from all over the world every day from 6 AM to 5 PM, and today we have 9 entrance hours, with 1-hour slots, from 6 AM to 2 PM. Apart from that, we have entrance tickets with Waynapicchu Mountain (400 spaces available every day) and Machupicchu Mountain (800 spaces available every day) that have other entrance schedules. It is basically only one ticket where you specify both entrances to the InKa city Machupicchu, the general entrance, and the mountain you request.
MACHUPICCHU + WAYNAPICCHU MOUNTAIN
- Group 1: Entrance to Machupicchu InKa City at 6 AM and entrance to Waynapicchu between 7 AM and 8 AM.
- Group 2: Entrance to the InKa Machupicchu city at 7 AM and entrance to Waynapicchu between 7 AM and 8 AM.
- Group 3: Entrance to the InKa Machupicchu city at 8 AM and entrance to Waynapicchu between 10 AM and 11 AM.
Note: Not suitable for people with vertigo. It is only for people over 12 years old and the trail is very narrow. If you wish to do this hike, it is best to do it several months in advance due to its high demand. The hike takes approximately 40 minutes.
MACHUPUCCHU + MACHUPICCHU MOUNTAIN
- Group 1: Not suitable for people with vertigo. It is only for people over 12 years old and the trail is very narrow. If you wish to do this hike, it is best to do it several months in advance due to its high demand. The hike takes approximately 40 minutes.
- Group 2: Entrance to Machupicchu InKa City at 7 AM and entrance to Machupicchu Mountain between 7 AM and 8 AM.
- Group 3: Entrance to Machupicchu InKa City at 8 AM and entrance to Machupicchu Mountain between 9 AM and 10 AM.
Note: It is much more accessible, and the trail is wider. There is no age limit, and it is not so popular, so there are usually always plenty of entrance tickets. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Peru is a culturally rich country that cherishes its living traditions and still observes a variety of time-honored festivities. Due to its history of colonization, many of these celebrations have become infused with Christian elements. In the country’s traditional cities, which are now popular tourist destinations, there are a plethora of festivals taking place throughout the year. In Cusco, for instance, it is not uncommon to hear fireworks on a daily basis, as Peruvians are known for their exuberant and festive spirit.
Many of these festivals can be traced back to the time of the Inkas, where celebrations would often last up to eight days. Today, due to practical considerations, most of these festivities are observed either on the first and last days or from beginning to end, depending on their significance. Below is a list of some of the most significant holidays and celebrations observed in Peru
- Señor de los Temblores
- La Candelaria in Puno
- Holy Week
- Feast of the Crosses
- Qoyllur Rit’i
- Festivities of Cusco in June
- Inti Raymi
- Paucartambo: Dance of the Sun
- Warachikuy
- Lord of Huanca
- Day of the Dead
- Christmas
- New Year
- Night parties celebrated all year round
- Many Catholic festivals throughout the year.
The first thing to do is to decide on the places you want to visit and/or the itinerary. At this point, you can determine the cost of your program by reviewing the information on our website or by contacting our travel designers. To confirm your reservation, you must deposit 50% of the total cost into our bank account, through a PayPal transaction or Western Union deposit. Once this step is completed, you must send us a copy or photo of the receipt and a valid passport to our contact email, informing us of your request. We will confirm your reservation within 24 hours.
The remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco. If payment is made by credit card, a percentage must be paid according to the banking laws in Peru.
The means of payment that we have are: Visa, Master Card /Maestro, The available payment methods at our disposal encompass Visa, Mastercard/Maestro, American Express, Dinner Club, Pay Pal, and Western Union. It is important to note that, in adherence to banking regulations, all financial transactions conducted in Peru are subject to taxation.
Our team has curated various programs that feature visits to numerous archaeological sites, traditional markets, textile and pottery centers, as well as local and international restaurants, hiking trails, mountain biking paths, ziplining courses, paragliding spots, horseback riding routes, river rafting expeditions, museums, and breathtaking scenic locations. Additionally, we offer a plethora of options for couples and honeymooners, such as luxurious hotels situated in the most representative places, massage spas, cafeterias, bars, meditation retreats, yoga sessions, meetings with shamans, earth rituals, and beaches.
Should you have any specific requests or preferences, we are happy to tailor our services to your unique needs, tastes, and wishes. We will work with you to design your trip and ensure that it meets your expectations and provides you with an unforgettable experience.
WHAT YOU SHOULD PACK
Regarding packing, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of necessary items to bring depending on the activities you have planned, once your reservation has been confirmed.
CAN I GO WITH CHILDREN
We understand that traveling with children can be a concern for some families. However, our itineraries are designed to accommodate travelers of all ages, with safety, accessibility, and feasibility in mind. We have worked with families with children as young as four years old, who were able to trek through challenging terrain and experience the wonders, walking like deer in Salkantay trek and babies carried by parents in the most impressive places in the Andes.
CHILDREN DISCOUNT
Please note that children are eligible for a 50% discount on admission fees to museums and archaeological sites, but not on the price of the tour itself. In order to receive the discounted admission, we require a copy of the child’s passport.
Our clients are of utmost importance to us and we take great pleasure in providing you with a fully personalized experience. We offer a wide range of additional options to cater to your specific preferences and ensure that your special occasion is nothing short of extraordinary. We welcome and encourage your input and will work diligently to incorporate all of your desired details into your itinerary. Our goal is to make your trip as memorable and enjoyable as possible, and we are committed to contributing to your overall satisfaction.