Private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

• Professional Guides:

All of our guides studied English and Tourism at the National University of Cusco. They grew up in the Cusco region, and are passionate about teaching others about their heritage. They are fun but professional and will make sure you are safe and happy.

• Permits:

As soon as we receive your details and a deposit, we will purchase your permits (pending availability, see our Inca Trail Availability link). These permits are for a specific date and in your name. They cannot be changed, once confirmed. Only updating your passport number is allowed. The permit includes one entrance to Machu Picchu.

• Briefing:

The night before your Machu Picchu hike, you will come to our office for your briefing. You will receive your duffel bag that will stay with your porters while you hike. This bag must not exceed 7kg/14lbs and must include your sleeping bag and air mattress.

• Porters:

We include a personal porter, responsible for carrying your duffel bag. There is no additional fee for this. You will not have access to your duffel bag until your overnight campsite.

• Transportation:

All of your transportation will be included on this trek. You will be picked up directly from your hotel around 4am (unless you are staying in Ollantaytambo) and taken to KM 82 to begin your trek. The Expedition Class Train back from Aguas Calientes is included, but you can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for $75 per person. Once you arrive at the train station, you will be taken back to your hotel in Cusco. Also, your round trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is included.

• Equipment:

We have the best equipment. We use Eureka Timberline 4 tents that only two people share. You will have a spacious dining tent to enjoy your meals.

• Food:

The chefs will cook delicious meals that many previous hikers have loved. We respect all dietary restrictions so be sure to add any you have on your booking form and let your guide know at your briefing. Food is typically served family style. You will enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner each day for the trek along with a happy hour of tea and snacks. A snack will be provided each morning for you to enjoy during the trek. Your last meal with your chef will be after breakfast on day four. Lunch on the final day is not included.

• Water:

From your first lunch to your last breakfast we will provide all necessary water. This water is boiled, filtered and then cooled before distribution. You must bring your own water bottles and/or camelback. We recommend carrying around 3L worth. You will be able to refill your water at each meal.

• First Aid:

Each guide has received first aid training from a doctor. We hold mandatory training sessions each February which every expedition tour guide must attend. Your tour guide will always have a first aid kit for basic medical situations (traveler’s diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) and oxygen. If necessary, we will get you off the trail as quickly and comfortably as possible, and make sure you get straight to a clinic for treatment.

• Extras:

We believe it’s the attention to small details that separates us from other tour companies. Every tourer receives a small sleeping pillow, a foam mattress for insulation, a backpack cover to protect your stuff while hiking, and a rain poncho. We will work hard to create your best vacation yet.

• Rentals: Every hiker needs a sleeping bag, when camping. Inflatable air mattresses and walking sticks (with rubber tips) are optional, but recommended. If you don’t want to bring any of the above, they are all available for rent: – Sleeping bag: $20 – Inflatable air mattress: $15 – Walking sticks (pair): $15.

• Huayna Picchu: Huayna Picchu is the mountain next to Machu Picchu. It is a 45 minute hike to the top. Coming back down is quite steep, if you are afraid of heights. This is done after your visit to Machu Picchu. The cost is $75. Arrangements must be made at least a month in advance, due to its popularity. Please understand that weather is out of our control.

• Sleeping bag: $20 Inflatable air mattress: FREE ON PRIVATE TREK Walking sticks (pair): $15.

• Bring warm clothing.
• Sunscreen (preferably SPF 90+).
• Sunglasses.
• Hat.
• Walking sticks.
• In the rainy season, a rain poncho.
• Hiking / trekking shoes.
• Water.
• Bring your ID or passport.
• Arrive half an hour early at the train station.
• Don’t bring too much luggage, only 7kg are allowed on the train.
• In Machu Picchu you will climb many steps, wear shoes suitable for walking.
• After the guided tour in Machu Picchu, enjoy the magical moment, open your arms and recharge your energy.
• Visit the hot springs.

• This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, plus stairs.
• Some of the places you will visit are about 3,800 meters above sea level, higher than the city of Cusco.
• There will be stops at local artisan souvenir shops for you to browse and purchase, if you wish.