Frequently Asked Questions

    FAQ - General

  • Do I need Visa for visit Perú?
  • Can you help arrange my travel visas?
  • What vaccinations are recommended in our adventure?
  • How do I know what Excursion is right for me?
  • Am I an Adventure traveller?
  • Book for a Group?
  • How much time do you have to spend on a excursion?
  • When do you want to travel?
  • Where do you want to travel?
  • How will you be arriving to the departure day?
  • How is our Company able to offer such competitive prices?
  • How many people can join a tour?
  • Who are my travelling companions?
  • What are the age restrictions on your tours?
  • I want to relax - will be the Travel to Perú the best holiday for me?
  • I'm travelling alone – is a group tour right for me? Who will I share a room with?
  • Couldn't I do this much cheaper on my own?
  • I'm a single traveller, will I be charged a single supplement?
  • Can I book extra nights of hotel accommodation before or after my tour?
  • Can you provide me with a list of the hotels we will be staying at?
  • Can I join a tour late or leave it early?
  • Are airport transfers included?
  • What type of ground transportation is used on your tours?
  • Is tipping included and if not, how much should I budget?
  • What kind of luggage should I bring?
  • What should I pack?
  • How do I get from the airport to the joining hotel?
  • Will my tour leader be waiting for me at my joining hotel?
  • Is crime as bad as I'm led to believe?
  • Are meals included?
  • What is the best way to carry my money?

    FAQ - Inca Trail

  • Can I trek Inka trail? Is it restricted? I´ve heard it´s hard to get permits.
  • How long is the Inca trail and how many hours do we hike per day?
  • How difficult is the Inca Trail?
  • Is altitude sickness common? And how high is the Inca Trail?
  • Is it possible to skip the Inca Trail even if the tour includes it?
  • When do we reach Machu Picchu and how much time do we spend there?
  • Do porters carry our luggage while on the Inca Trail?
  • How cold does it get on the Inca Trail (will I need to bring hats and mitts)?
  • What type of accommodation is used on the Inca Trail?
  • Is a sleeping bag and mat included?
  • Is purified water available on the trail?
  • What type of food will we get on the Inca Trail?
  • How much should I tip the guides and porters?
  • What are the requirements to hike the Inca Trail?
  • When is the High Season on the Inca Trail?
  • How early do I need to book my Inca Trail tour?

    FAQ - Booking Related

  • When should I book my tour?
  • How do I book my tour?
  • Can I use a travel agent?
  • What does "Holding an Option" mean?
  • How do I "Hold an Option"
  • How do I confirm after "Holding an Option"?
  • Can I book and confirm without holding an option?
  • Is availability guaranteed when I book online?
  • Are your tours guaranteed to run?
  • Do I need insurance?
  • How do you send out travel documentation?
  • Why can't extra services be added to a file within 10 days of departure?
  • Can I pay in full right away?
  • Can I cancel my booking if I decide I cannot make it?
  • Will you let me know if my tour is guaranteed sooner than the 60-day mark?
  • Can my documents be mailed out to me?

Didn't find the question or answer you were looking for? Contact Us.

Getting Started

FAQ - General

Visas

Do I need visa for Visit Perú?
Citizens of most countries of Western Europe, Asia, North América, South America, and Australia, New Zealand or South Africa do not need to have a visa to enter Peru, only a valid passport when arriving to the International Airport is enough.
Take a look at the following link ,Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru.
https://www.rree.gob.pe/portal/aconsular.nsf/0/9F10D80FD06FFF0405256E38005537D3?OpenDocument
to obtain a tourist visa, you must present a valid passport, two color photos, an application form, a ticket for the return flight from Peru, a proof of economic solvency, and the required fee.
In order to enter the country, you must have a passport with a remaining validity of at least 6 months. If your passport expires while you are in the country you can renew it, free of charge, in your country's embassy in Peru. If your passport is filled with travel stamps but is still valid, you may request more pages added to your passport in your country's embassy.
All tourists that visit Peru are given a tourist card that you must fill in with your information. Each card has a duplicate and Immigration keeps a copy of it in their office.
The requirements for acquiring a Peruvian visa, for tourism or business, are the following:

  • F-07 Form (free).
  • Receipt of payment for processing fee. S/. 24.00. (soles) , aprox.(US$ 10.00)
  • Copy of passport of beneficiary.

In the event that there are bilateral or multilateral agreements written by Peru with other States or international entities, payment of fees, processing, or other facilities can be subject to change or modification.
For other countries, we recommend you ask for visa in a Peruvian embassy or consulate.
Visa Extensions

The tourist card that you will receive when entering Peru allows you to stay up to 90 days. This may be renewed three times for 30 days each time. The first renewal is free but the following renewals cost about US $ 30. If you want to prolong your stay for more than one month you must leave the country and re-enter in order to complete the process again from the beginning. The renewal process takes less than an hour.
The requirements to prolong your stay are:

  • Printed F-004 form (free).
  • Receipt of payment for processing Fee S/. 24.00 (Aprox. us$ 10.00 dolars)
  • Proof of payment from the Banco de la Nación (National Bank) for change of Migratory Status USD$200.00 or $300.00 according to the specific case. (Payment upon Approval of Action)
  • Annual Immigration fee US $ 20.00
  • Valid passport and embarkation/disembarkation card or valid identification card from Immigration.
  • International Exchange File
  • Change of Temporary Visa Status $ 50.00 (Payment upon Approval of Action)

Business Visas
If you are planning to work in Peru, you must obtain a business visa. You will need a valid passport, two color photos, a ticket for the return flight from Peru, and a letter from his/her employer or from the Chamber of Commerce, establishing the nature of business, duration of the stay, and a guarantee that he will not have to pay any Peruvian tax. This visa has a set cost. The visitor must register in the General Direction of Contributions for tax matters.
Employees of foreign companies that come to Peru on business must fulfill the following requirements:

  • A copy of the contract for services rendered between the foreign company and the natural or legal Peruvian entity receiving the services. It must be a legally notarized copy or authorized by a public official of the DIGEMIN (General Direction of Migration and Naturalization).
  • Document of designation of the worker issued by the foreign company, duly legalized in the Peruvian consulate and endorsed by External Relations with instructions of time of services rendered within the country.

Note: If written in a foreign language, documents must be translated to Spanish by a licensed translator.
Student Visas
To obtain a student visa for a year, you must show proof of economic solvency, be enrolled in a Peruvian educational institution, have a recommendation letter written by yourself and another letter issued by the Peruvian consul, a letter of moral and economic guarantee from a Peruvian citizen, and four pictures (front and profile). You must also provide a medical examination certificate. If you are in Peru, and you need this type of visa, you must leave the country and request it in immigration at one of the borders.
Can you help arrange my travel visas?

https://www.rree.gob.pe/portal/aconsular.nsf/0/9F10D80FD06FFF0405256E38005537D3?OpenDocument

What vaccinations are recommended in our adventure?

- Mandatory: No
- Recommended: Yellow Fever (recommended for all travelers who visit areas of the jungle in the country located below 2300 meters altitude). If you only travel to Cuzco and Machu Pichu is not necessary, tetanus-diphtheria, Hepatitis A

It's important that you receive the most accurate and up-to-date travel health information for the region you will be visiting. The only one qualified to provide you with this advice is your family physician or a specialist from a Travel Health clinic. Nevertheless these websites are no substitute for a personal consultation with a qualified medical professional.

How do I know what Excursion is right for me?
Asking yourself the following questions is a good way to narrow down your search.
Am I an Adventure traveller?
This is an important question! Adventure travel can be challenging because you can encounter very different cultures, attitudes and ways of doing things than you would be used to back home. Although our tours are well organised and offer good quality transport and accommodation, none of them are of a luxury standard and you should not always expect streamlined travel arrangements, particularly in developing countries. Public buses may be late, showers may be cold, restaurant services a lot slower, fewer people speak English and general hygiene and toilets may be of a lower standard than what you may be used to. If you have a flexible approach, a good sense of humour, can go with the flow, be prepared to get involved and help your tour leader if necessary and accept that things don't always go to plan, you will maximise your enjoyment of your adventure holiday.
Book for a Group?
The first thing to decide on a vacation is who will be traveling. If there are more than eight people, you may be eligible for group rates. We have a group department that handles this type of reservation.
How much time do you have to spend on a Vacation?
Depending on the number of days you can spare away from home or the office often affects your destination choices. For example, if you have less than a week off, you will most likely be limited to Lima,Cusco and Machupicchu. If you have a longer amount of time off, you have opportunities to travel to farther destinations such as the Amazon, the Inka Trail.
When do you want to travel?
Peak traveling is generally in the summer months and around holidays, when fares are generally higher and spaces in our groups are low. If you prefer to travel in the spring or fall, you will most likely find more options and spaces in each excursion.
Where do you want to travel?
It is important to decide whether a particular destination or a particular place for departing is the most important. If you have flexibility for many departure places, your options are greater. or If you are just interested in the experience of a excursion.
How will you be arriving to the departure Day?
Driving-If you chose to drive to the departure place; there is a nominal parking fee each day, similar to airport parking.
Flying-If flights are purchased by your own way, your transfers are generally included. When your flight has landed, head to the baggage claim area and look for a sign with your Travel Company's name on it.
If transfers are not included, our specialists may be able to add them into your booking. Prices vary based on excursions and arrival city.

How is our Company able to offer such competitive prices?
Our unique style of off the beaten track, face-to-face travel is the only way to really experience a destination, but it also serves to keep the costs down. We spend your money providing an authentic experience, instead of on lavish hotels and expensive western-style meals. We pass these savings on to you with our low prices. Another thing you'll notice are the inclusions. While we don't include everything, we do throw in the major highlights of a destination, the things that everyone goes to see. On every trip page we show you the 'Included Highlights' of your trip, things that many other companies charge locally for. We leave many other activities as options, to provide you the freedom and flexibility to choose what you want to do on a daily basis.

How many people can join a tour?
We keep our group sizes low so you have the freedom to move around and get involved with your surroundings. This intimate size ensures that your group won't crowd your experience. You can expect anywhere from 12-16 travellers on a trip but the average is 10 with the exception of our ship-based and Overland truck trips. Check individual trip pages for maximum group sizes. Also we offer private tours in requested language, Portugues, Italian, French, Japanese,and others.

Who are my travelling companions?
For privacy reasons we cannot provide you with advance details on your traveling companions. However, our tours appeal to a wide range of travellers, most of whom share an adventurous spirit and a desire to experience these destinations at a grass-roots level. Our tours are conducted in English and Spanish and so they attract many travellers from North America, UK, Australia, New Zealand and Europe.

What are the age restrictions on your tours?
To travel independently you must be at least 18 years of age. There are no upper age limits on our tours however travelers with pre existing medical conditions are required to complete a medical questionnaire. Our Family Adventures are open to families with children aged between 5 and 17 years of age. Our standard (non-family) adventures are open to children aged 12 years or older when accompanied by a parent (max. two children per adult). The two children per adult restriction does not apply to our family adventures.

I want to relax – will be the Travel to Perú the best holiday for me?
Our group tours are adventure orientated and offer the opportunity to do a variety of cultural activities and outdoor excursions. If you love being busy and seeing new things then our tours are ideal for you. There is free time on all tours but some travelling days will be long and there will be some early mornings in order to maximise your sightseeing time. If you're looking for a very chilled out beach resort-style holiday, it may be best to look elsewhere, as most of our tours require clients to be moderately fit and energetic.
I'm travelling alone – is a group tour right for me? Who will I share a room with?
Although some people travel on our tours with friends or partners, many people come alone, perhaps because their friends have different interests or budgets. Although you may begin the tour alone, by the end of the tour you will have many new friends for life. Alone travellers will usually be roomed with other group members of the same gender. We also offer Independent Travel stopovers and packages.

Couldn't I do this much cheaper on my own?
It may be cheaper to organise your own adventure, but imagine how much time and effort it would be to prepare an itinerary and book all of your own transport and accommodation. Apart from guaranteeing these services, our prices include the booking fees and administration costs to make the reservations as well. Hotels, domestic flight tickets, any included entrance tickets and local guides are booked in advance to ensure availability. Plus, our itineraries are designed by adventure travel experts so you can be sure that your tour will cover all the major highlights and many of the off-the-beaten-track destinations you've always wanted to see. You have the benefit of a tour leader or tour guide who will take care of the logistics so when you arrive at your destination you will have free time for relaxation and sightseeing, rather than having to worry about the next part of the journey and all of the language difficulties that you may encounter. You will also have the comfort of knowing that your arrangements have been made by a legitimate, reputable worldwide operator who you can turn to for support if you need it. We make it easy so all you have to do is relax and go with the flow.
I'm a single traveller, will I be charged a single supplement?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if you are travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement or rarely a mandatory single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows only travellers to request their own private room while on tour. The cost and the details vary by trip, so please refer to each trip summary page for details.

Can I book extra nights of hotel accommodation before or after my tour?
Yes, in most cases we can arrange additional accommodation at our starting or ending hotels, contact us for price information or check under "Hotels, Transfers & City Breaks" on the tour page of our website for prices. If we are unable to provide you with the extra nights we will give you the name of a hotel you can contact directly. Please also note that extra accommodations must be booked outside of 30 days of departure.

Can you provide me with a list of the hotels we will be staying at?
Starting and ending hotels are listed on your travel voucher and in the Trip Details document. We use a variety of hotels en-route and so a complete list of hotels won't be provided until day 1 of your tour. If your family requires contact information, or in case of emergency, please have them phone 051-084-253617. If our office is closed please refer to the emergency phone number that is found on the Trip Details document, this number can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Can I join a tour late or leave it early?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary please consult to our Specialist before you book your adventure.

Are airport transfers included?
Most of our adventures do not include airport transfers and so we recommend you arrange a taxi on arrival (this is the most economical and efficient way of getting you to your hotel). If you would prefer a pre-arranged transfer these are usually available at an additional cost - please contact us for more information. Some of our adventures, including our "Wonders of Perú 21 days" "Sun Path 16 days", include an arrival transfer (departure transfers can be locally arranged at additional cost from the finishing point hotel).

What type of ground transportation is used on your tours?
Trip specific information on transportation can be found on the trip summary page however in most cases we use public transportation. We've found that how you get there significantly influences the tone of your journey and public transportation allows face-to-face interaction with the local people. Some of our adventures, including private transport " and most adventures in Cusco, use private transportation.

Is tipping included and if not, how much should I budget?
Tips are not included in the tour price and tipping is entirely at your discretion. Our Trip Details documentation includes suggested tipping amounts .
What kind of luggage should I bring?
We strongly recommend that you bring a soft frameless backpack or sports type bag. Wheeled luggage and suitcases are NOT permitted on any of our tour as these are not suitable for storage on the trucks, coaches or public transport. You will need to carry your own luggage and should make sure you have a bag you find comfortable (and light enough) to carry. Please note that for tours travelling on our expedition vehicles and coaches, or if you are travelling on a tour with internal flights, your luggage should not exceed 20kg. A day pack is required for most overnight included excursions. If possible, bring a light string or cotton bag for market shopping so you can politely refuse plastic bags.
What should I pack?
This is a very frequently asked question but of course it depends entirely on your destination, the season you're travelling in and the activites you'll participate in. The most important thing to pack is your sense of humour because this can get you through any situation - including lost luggage! There are specific packing lists in our regional pre departure information booklets which you can find on the right hand side of your tour page. Some tours require sleeping bags - this will be indicated on the tour dossier. Bring comfortable, hardy, waterproof shoes and waterproof clothing for outdoor activities, e.g. trekking. Bring long, light clothing for hot destinations and countries where you'll encounter conservative attitudes to dress. We also have a handy list of packing tips on our blog as well.

How do I get from the airport to the joining hotel?
In some cities we offer arrival transfer services which can be booked for an additional charge. However, if you do not book a transfer or we do not offer them in your arrival city it is easy to take a taxi. Most airports have reliable pre-paid fixed priced taxi booths in the arrivals terminal and we recommend you use these. See joining letters, country dossiers and tour vouchers for more information.

Will my tour leader or tour Guide be waiting for me at my joining hotel?
On most group tours the tour leader will be at the joining hotel and will hold a pre-departure meeting in the late afternoon/early evening of day 1. Please let our office know if you are unable to get to the joining hotel in time for this meeting. On some of our shorter trips you will not meet your tour leader until day 2, as these trips are parts of longer adventure travel tours. In these cases, our local representatives will ensure you meet up with your group.

Is crime as bad as I'm led to believe?
Definitely not! The media has a tendency to report only the very worst news, which means that we can get quite a negative impression of a country and quite often we don't hear anything about the very friendly, helpful people and extraordinary cultures in these amazing destinations. Most crime is opportunistic and non violent but of course, it is possible to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Care and common sense will nearly always prevent problems. Read the travel safety notices issued by your government, purchase comprehensive travel insurance and take heed of your tour leader's advice when you arrive. As long as you take care of yourself, your friends and your personal belongings and use a bit of common sense, you should be fine.

Are meals included ?
Meals may be included on Independent Travel stopovers and packages - see your tour dossier for details. At other times clients make their own arrangements with advice / recommendations from our tour leaders and local reps.

What is the best way to carry my money?
In most destinations into Perú, all currency and travellers cheques should be in US dollars. No other currency is widely accepted. Travellers' cheques are a safe way to carry your funds although they can sometimes be more difficult to change than cash. ATMs are the easiest way to withdraw money BUT you should never rely solely on them and always have a back-up of cash. We recommend that you bring as much US dollars cash (in small denomination bills with no rips, writing or other damage) as you feel comfortable carrying, or Euros .
FAQ - Inca Trail

  • Can I trek the Inca Trail? Is it restricted? I've heard it's hard to get permits?
  • How long is the Inca trail and how many hours do we hike per day?
  • How difficult is the Inca Trail?
  • Is altitude sickness common? And how high is the Inca Trail?
  • Is it possible to skip the Inca Trail even if the tour includes it?
  • When do we reach Machu Picchu and how much time do we spend there?
  • Do porters carry our luggage while on the Inca Trail?
  • How cold does it get on the Inca Trail (will I need to bring hats and mitts)?
  • What type of accommodation is used on the Inca Trail?
  • Is a sleeping bag and mat included?
  • Is purified water available on the trail?
  • What type of food will we get on the Inca Trail?
  • How much should I tip the guides and porters?
  • What are the requirements to hike the Inca Trail?
  • When is the High Season on the Inca Trail?
  • How early do I need to book my Inca Trail tour?

Can I trek the Inca Trail? Is it restricted? I've heard it's hard to get permits?
Regulations regarding the issue of Inca Trail permits are subject to change and it is important that you check regularly to make sure you have the most up to date information. Only 500 permits are issued for the Inca Trail each day and this includes porters, guides and other necessary staff, so we advise to book well in advance to avoid missing out. The trail is usually closed once a year (around February) for a clean up and during this time we offer an alternative, easier trekking route which mostly follows the Urubamba River before finishing up, as normal, at the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu. There is also an alternative trek called the Lares Trek, which provides a less touristy but equally beautiful alternative Inca trail through the Andes and visits Machu Picchu at the end.
How long is the Inca trail and how many hours do we hike per day?
The Inca Trail is 42 kms (26 miles) long. Campsites along the Trail are assigned by the INC (National Institute of Culture) and for this reason it is difficult to determine the distance to be covered in a day but expect to walk 6 to 9 hours per day for the first three days and approximately 2 hours on the last day. Hours walked will vary with distance covered and the fitness level of each hiker.

How difficult is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is considered a moderate hike. It's not a technical hike but there are a lot of Inca staircases to walk up and down, and the altitude may affect some persons. We recommend purchasing a wooden walking stick while in Peru as it will help with your balance and reduce the load on your knees. We ask that you not use a metal tipped walking stick as it can harm the fragile environment along the trail.

Is altitude sickness common? And how high is the Inca Trail?
It's impossible to predict who will be affected by altitude. Your ability to adapt to high altitude is determined by your genetic makeup and has little to do with fitness or health. Most people will have no problems as long as they take the time to acclimatize properly. A full day spent in Cuzco (3249m), taking it easy and drinking plenty of water, is usually enough for most people. The highest point you will reach while hiking the Inca Trail is 4200 meters. You will sleep at 3600 meters for one or two nights.

Is it possible to skip the Inca Trail even if the tour includes it?
Yes! If you do not wish to hike the Inca Trail please advise us at the time of booking (it is very difficult to make these arrangements once you have already confirmed). If you choose not to hike the trail you will spend two nights in Cuzco and then take the train to the town of Aguas Calientes for the third night. You will rejoin your group at Machu Picchu for your included tour of the site. You may also choose to book a trip that includes the slightly higher and scenic Lares Trail. This popular 3-day and 2 night trek, ends in Ollantaytambo where you will catch the train to Aguas Calientes, Spend the night in a simple hotel and catch the early bus to Machu Picchu.

When do we reach Machu Picchu and how much time do we spend there?
The time at which you will reach Machu Picchu depends on the campsite assigned for your third night on the Trail. Many groups will reach the sun gate at approximately 6:00am (the hike begins at approx. 4:30am) and will enter the site 45 minutes later but this cannot be determined in advance. After a bit of time to catch your breath and freshen up after the hike you will receive a two hour guided tour followed by some free time to explore the area on your own before the group travels by bus to Aguas Calientes where we catch the train back to Cuzco. Train schedules vary.

Do porters carry our luggage while on the Inca Trail?
Yes! In Cuzco you will be provided with a large stuff sac in which you can place up to 6kg of personal items. Our porters will carry these bags, along with your tent and sleeping bag while you hike the Inca Trail. (please note they will be weighed before we leave Cuzco). Items not required while on the trail can be stored safely at our hotel in Cuzco. All you will be required to carry is a daypack containing items you will need during the day (Water, camera, sunscreen, rain poncho, etc..).

How cold does it get on the Inca Trail (will I need to bring hats and mitts)?
The altitude means it can get quite chilly, especially during the Andean winter (May - September) when the temperature can drop to below zero degrees (Celsius) at night. It can still be cool at other times of the year and so we recommend bringing thermal underwear and a warm sleeping bag. You can purchase warm clothes , inexpensive and locally made hand-woven hat and gloves in Cusco.

What type of accommodation is used on the Inca Trail?
Three-person tents are used to accommodate two same-sex travellers. There are a few places where permanent but very basic toilet facilities exist and when they are not available our team will set up portable toilet tents. Trekkers are provided with a bowl of hot water (and a hot drink) every morning in their tent.

Is a sleeping bag and mat included?
Sleeping bags are not included and so we recommend bringing a compact three-season sleeping bag. A popular alternative is to rent a sleeping bag in Cuzco which can be requested through your representative or tour leader at the start of your tour or by letting us know at time of booking. They are clean, warm and cost approximately USD$15 (for all three nights). Some renters may choose to bring a sleeping bag liner or sheet. Foam mats are provided however some travellers also bring their own self-inflating mat (ie. a Thermarest).

Is purified water available on the trail?
Bottled water can be purchased on day 1 and on the evening of day 3 of the Inca Trail however we discourage trekkers from purchasing bottles as it increases the amount of garbage that must be packed out. We recommend that you bring a refillable water bottle as boiled water will be provided in the morning at breakfast, at lunch and every evening after dinner.

What type of food will we get on the Inca Trail?
Our cooks prepare excellent high-energy meals appropriate for a trek of this nature. The menu usually includes pasta, rice, chicken, fresh fruit and vegetables and a variety of oatmeal, eggs and other breakfast foods. Vegetarian alternatives are available upon request at the time of booking.
We use USPH rules (United State Public Help)

How much should I tip the guides and porters?
Tipping is at your discretion but always appreciated. A good rule of thumb is anywhere from $6-8 dollars per day for the porters.

What are the requirements to hike the Inca Trail?
To hike the Inca Trail with Us you must be over the age of 12, with moderate level of fitness, and hold a passport that is valid for up to 6 months after you return to your home country.

Bookings must be made as far in advance as possible. To be able to ensure a spot on the Inca Trail we recommend that you purchase your trip at least 3 months in advance in low season (between November and April) and at least 6 months in advance in high season (May to October).

We cannot guarantee the availability of a permit by following these guidelines however your chances are much greater.

We require the following information for the purchase of an Inca Trail Permit.

  • Full name (exactly as it appears on the passport)
  • Date of Birth
  • Nationality
  • Passport Number
  • Date of Passport Expiry - Must be valid for the date of travel

Any attempts at modifications result in a loss of the permit and any money paid.

A limited amount of permits are available each day for hikers in an effort to preserve the trail. Please see the Inca Trail link.

When is the High Season on the Inca Trail?
Hiking the Inca Trail is popular all year, however May to September is considered the 'high' season. This means that permits can be sold out many months in advance, so it is especially imperative to plan ahead of hiking during these months.

The cost of 'high season' Inca Trail tours is slightly higher than the rest of the year, however if you book before February, you can save money by taking advantage of our 'Early Booking Bonus'.

How early do I need to book my Inca Trail tour?
Permits to hike the Inca Trail can be sold out for many months in advance, particularly in the high season. We recommend booking as early as possible.

We offer an "Early Booking Bonus" for anyone going on the Inca Trail during high season. If you book your tour before February 2nd for any Inca Trail trip between May - September you will save $50 (or the equivalent in your booking currency).

FAQ - Booking Related
Categories

  • When should I book my tour?
  • Can I use a travel agent?
  • What does "Holding an Option" mean?
  • How do I "Hold an Option"
  • How do I confirm after "Holding an Option"?
  • Can I book and confirm without holding an option?
  • Is availability guaranteed when I book online?
  • Are your tours guaranteed to run?
  • Do I need insurance?
  • How do you send out travel documentation?
  • Why can't extra services be added to a file within 10 days of departure?
  • Can I pay in full right away?
  • Can I cancel my booking if I decide I cannot make it?
  • Will you let me know if my tour is guaranteed sooner than the 60-day mark?
  • Can my documents be mailed out to me?

When should I book my tour?
There are two schools of thought about when to book a tour - some people prefer to book when they've saved enough money for their entire trip and leave the booking until closer to the date of departure. Others prefer to book their tour many months in advance to take advantage of our early booking discounts (-5% discount if you book before 4 months you start your trip) . From time to time we do offer late space discounts on tours which are departing within 60 days or so -

Our reservations team (or your travel agent) will be able to give you specific advice about the best time of year to travel to destinations where the weather will have a large impact on your adventure. Please bear in mind that some tours include destinations where you may need to get special visas and vaccinations or apply for permits - any of these items can take several weeks to organise, so it's really best not to leave this until the last minute.
Can I use a travel agent?
If you have a preferred travel agent, or if you heard about us through an agent, we strongly encourage you to book your adventure through them. Please have your agent give us a call.

What does "Holding an Option" mean?
It means reserving space without payment for up to 48 hours. Holding an option gives you time to research flights, gather passport information, confirm arrangements with travel partners, etc.. An option will expire and your space will be released unless you confirm within 48 hours. Holding an option isn't necessary if you know you want to book and are ready to make payment.

How do I "Hold an Option"
There are two ways to hold an option: online or by phone (051-084 253617). Our secure online booking form allows you to "Hold an Option" or "Confirm my Booking". Payment is not required when holding an option however we do require your credit card details when booking online. Your credit card will not be charged unless you confirm your option. After holding an option you will be provided with a Booking Reference Number and instructions on how to confirm. Options that are not confirmed within 48 hours will expire and your space will be released.

How do I confirm after "Holding an Option"?

) or by phone (visit our contact us page for local numbers). Please be sure to have the following details at hand:

 

  • Booking Reference Number (provided to you at the time you held your option)
  • Full name as it appears on your passport
  • Passport number, expiry date and place of issue
  • Nationality
  • Full mailing address
  • Date of birth
  • Occupation
  • Emergency contact name and phone number
  • Details regarding any medical or dietary requirements

Payment is by credit card. If your tour departs within 60 days full payment is required, otherwise a deposit of $250/ €250, £100 per person will confirm your booking. Initial documents will be emailed to you within 48 hours of confirming your booking.

Can I book and confirm without holding an option?
Yes! You can do so online or by phone (visit our contact us page). Please be sure to have the following details on hand:

  • Full name as it appears on your passport
  • Passport number, expiry date and place of issue
  • Nationality
  • Full mailing address
  • Date of birth
  • Occupation
  • Emergency contact name and phone number
  • Details regarding any medical or dietary requirements
  • Credit card details

Is availability guaranteed when I book online?
The availability listed on our website is updated every minute however on some tours we must confirm arrangements with our people on the ground, a process which usually takes no more than 24 hours. When you book online you will receive a follow-up email confirming your arrangements or a timeframe for when they will be confirmed. We strongly recommend that you do not make any other non-refundable travel arrangements until you receive confirmation that your space has been held.

Are your tours guaranteed to run?
Yes! We do have selected tours that are 100% Guaranteed for all of their departures, as soon as a single person books that departure. These tours are marked online and in our brochure.

Also - some of Our Adventures tours have guaranteed departures. Just look for any trip with a "C" (confirmed) beside the dates in the price box. This is our guarantee that your departure will be operating as scheduled once you have booked*. That means once you choose your departure date and receive confirmation from an Adventure Specialist, you can confidently book flights and make all the necessary travel arrangements with the peace of mind that the departure time won't change.

The fact is, most of our trips operate as scheduled but some may not become guaranteed until (no later than) 60 days prior to the departure date. We recognize that some of our travellers feel more comfortable finalizing their travel plans much farther ahead. So look for the trips with the adjacent "C", book your tour, book your flights and book your insurance; then tell your boss that you are leaving and there is no turning back.

  • A trip with a "C" beside it denotes that the trip is guaranteed to operate once you book your space, barring unusual circumstances beyond the company's control or for reasons of force majeure.

Do I need insurance?
All of our tours require that you have medical travel insurance which includes at least USD$200,000 worth of emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage. On Day 1 your tour leader Our representative will ask you for proof of coverage. If you do not already have coverage please give us a call and we can arrange this for you. Cancellation insurance is recommended but not mandatory.

How do you send out travel documentation?
All documentation is sent electronically by email. Shortly after we receive your payment we will send you your initial documents. Final documentation will be sent by email no later than two weeks prior to the departure.

Why can't extra services be added to a file within 10 days of departure?
As our adventures are often "off the beaten track" it is next to impossible to contact our tour leaders and have them arrange these services in such a short time frame. We highly recommend adding services to your booking at least 30 days prior to your departure date as amendment fees will apply between 30 - 10 days.

Can I pay in full right away?
You sure can. Please let your specialist know at time of booking or indicate this when making your online booking.

Can I cancel my booking if I decide I cannot make it?
When your deposit is made, and we confirm your booking, it is non-refundable. If you cancel your booking within 60 days of departure, the penalty is 50% loss, and if you cancel within 30 days, it is 100%. Because of this, we highly recommend taking out an All-Inclusive Insurance policy, so you know your investment is secure! For further information regarding our terms and conditions, please visit our "Before You Go" page for a link to our Booking Terms and Conditions.

Will you let me know if my tour is guaranteed sooner than the 60-day mark?
Yes, an email will automatically be sent to you advising to go ahead and book your international airfare as your tour is now guaranteed to depart.

Can my documents be mailed out to me?
As a sustainable company we try to limit the amount of paper that we consume, therefore, all documents are electronically sent directly to your email account. Please consult to one of our specialists if this is not possible.

Traveler Reviews

Maria
Lima, Perú
Gran experiencia que combina lo maravillo de la naturaleza con la aventura, la visita a las Islas Ballestas fue espectacular con el Candelabro y los lobos marinos y estar en Huacachina haciendo buggy sandboarding y ver el atardecer es maravilloso. Todo es perfecto en este lugar, definitivamente lo recomiendo.
Pablo C
Córdoba, Argentina
Cumplieron con todo lo prometido. Excelente experiencia. Los super recomiendo Me quedé con ganas de conocer más cosas. Seguramente el próximo año volveré
Kriss A
Realmente muy contenta con el servicio brindado, hicieron que tenga una estadía sin preocupaciones y sobre todo la puntualidad. Gracias a nuestro guía que hizo más amena la visita, nos sentimos en casa.

Certifications

ISO 9001:2015

Demonstrating our commitment to quality, we hold ISO 9001:2015 certification, ensuring excellence in our services.

Trekking

With ISO 14001, we prioritize environmental sustainability, reducing our impact on the planet.

TripAdvisor Travel Choice 2023

We're honored to be recognized with the Traveler's Choice Award in 2023, a testament to our dedication to exceptional travel experiences.

Agencia de viajes y turismo registrada

We are an official agency and tour operator, ensuring a unique and high-quality travel experience to the destinations of your choice in Cusco and Peru.

Recommended by

TripAdvisor Certification 2017
TripAdvisor Certification 2018
TripAdvisor Certification 2019
TripAdvisor Certification 2020
TripAdvisor certification 2021
TripAdvisor certification 2022

Travel Associations

Travel Associations Sernamp
Travel Associations Mincetur
Travel Associations Protegeme
Travel Associations Safe Travel
Travel Associations Gercetur
Agencia de viajes y turismo registrada