General information

  • Climate

    The weather in Peruvian Andes is defined by two seasons: green (rainy) and dry.

    Green season typically runs from November through March, with the heaviest rains occurring in January and February (average daytime temperature 56*F/13.3*C).

    Dry season daytime average temperature is 62-68*F/17-20*C. Expect lower temperatures in the early morning and evening—always be prepared by dressing in layers.

    Note: Machu Picchu is located in a high-altitude environment where variable weather is to be expected. Rain can occur in the middle of July just as sun may appear in January, so it is better to be prepared for mixed conditions.

  • Clothing & Equipment

    Travelers need to be prepared for summer and winter all at once. Recommended equipment includes:

    • Hiking pants/shorts
    • Quick-dry tops and bottoms
    • Long sleeve fleece/sweater
    • Sun hat or baseball cap
    • Buff or bandana
    • Wool cap/Beanie
    • Gloves (light fabric or wind stopper)
    • Cold-weather jacket
    • Full rain gear (jacket and pants)
    • Broken-in hiking boots or shoes
    • Daypack/Camelback-style daypack to carry water, snacks, extra clothing, sunscreen, etc.
    • Hiking poles- Highly recommended! They are also readily available in multiple shops in Cusco if you forget yours or would like to purchase some after you arrive.
    • Headlamp
    • Cameras/binoculars- Sorry, no drones!
    • Water bottle- Each guest will be provided with a 26 oz. reusable water bottle; however, feel free to bring one of your own
    • Passport and other travel documents; we highly recommend making copies or taking a photo and e-mailing it to yourself, just in case
    • Prescription medications
    • Phone/computer chargers
    • Electricity converters- All your lodges and hotels are outfitted with 110v compatible outlets; however, the rest of the country operates on 220v
    • Sunglasses/prescription glasses/contact lenses
    • Sunscreen
    • Insect repellent

  • Electricity Plug Details

    220V, Plug Type: A,B & C

  • Food

    Apart from Cusco, where only breakfast in included, all three meals will be provided during your trek and in Aguas Calientes. The meals will have assortment of vegetarian and non-vegetation spread. 

    If you are allergic to any particular food items, kindly let us know at the time of booking.

  • Group Size

    We run this trip starting with 2 people and can cater to larger groups as well.

  • How To Get There

    The trip starts and ends with pick-ups and drop-offs at Cusco airport. You need to book flights accordingly.

  • Internet

    Wi-Fi is readily available throughout Cusco at hotels and some restaurants and cafés. You will also have access to Wi-Fi at the mountain lodges; however, we urge you to limit your use in order to truly disconnect and enjoy your journey.

    Cell phone coverage is available, but rates can be expensive. We suggest looking into international plans offered by your wireless carrier. Alternatively, calling cards can be purchased in Cusco and used at the lodges.

  • Languages Spoken

    Spanish is widely spoken and understood. However, English is also spoken and understood with variable fluency.

  • Medication & First Aid

    It will help for you to carry some easy to access medicines on the trip, for headaches, diarrhoea, constipation, and some re-hydration. powders like Electral etc. apart from any personal medication.

  • Money to Carry

    The official currency of Peru is the Sol (S/). However, US dollars are also widely accepted. If you are carrying cash, make sure to bring crisp, undamaged bills since they will not be accepted with marks, folds, or rips.

    ATM machines that dispense both Soles and USD are widely available in Cusco. Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Please note that very few establishments accept American Express.

    Note: During your trek, you will want to have some cash on hand for souvenirs, minor personal expenses, and optional gratuities for trip leaders and guides. We also recommend having small denominations (including coins) for purchases and bathroom facilities enroute. Additional expenses at the mountain lodges, like massages, alcoholic beverages, and laundry service can be charged to your credit card or paid in cash on site.

  • Time Zone

    GMT-5 hours

  • Tipping

    All tipping is optional and by no means mandatory, however if you feel that your staff and drivers have performed at a satisfactory level, it is a great way to let them know you appreciate their efforts.

    In general, we suggest $10-20/day (per person) tips for the guides & $5-10/day (per person) for the porters and drivers.