Frequently Asked Questions
🎟️ Permits, Booking & Payments
How far in advance should I book the Classic Inca Trail?
Inca Trail permits are strictly limited by the Peruvian government and sell out months in advance. We recommend booking 4 to 6 months ahead (or up to 8 months ahead for peak season: May through August).
What personal information is required to secure an Inca Trail permit?
We require your full name, passport number, date of birth, gender, and nationality exactly as they appear on your passport.
What happens if I renew or change my passport after booking?
You must notify us immediately. We can update your permit details with the park authorities using a copy of both your old and new passports for a small administrative fee.
Do alternative treks (like Salkantay or Lares) require permits?
No, alternative treks do not have strict government permit caps like the Inca Trail. However, train tickets and Machu Picchu entry passes still sell out, so booking 1 to 2 months in advance is recommended.
How much deposit is required to confirm a trek?
A non-refundable deposit of $200–$300 per person (depending on the trek) is required at the time of booking to secure your permits, entry tickets, and train reservations.
When is the remaining balance due?
The remaining balance is due during your pre-trek briefing in Cusco, 24 to 48 hours before your trek departs. We accept cash (USD or PEN) and credit card payments.
Is my deposit refundable if I cancel my trip?
No. Permits and train tickets purchased in your name are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable according to Peruvian government regulations.
Can I transfer my permit or booking to another person?
No. Government rules strictly prohibit changing the name on an issued Inca Trail permit or Machu Picchu ticket.
Are student discounts available?
Yes! Travelers under 18 or university students with a valid ISIC card (or official student ID showing a current photo and expiration date) are eligible for a discount.
What payment methods do you accept for online deposits?
We accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) and secure online payment gateways.
⛰️ Altitude & Physical Fitness
How high is the highest point on the Classic Inca Trail?
The highest point is Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusqa), sitting at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet) above sea level.
How many days should I stay in Cusco to acclimatize before trekking?
We strongly recommend spending at least 2 to 3 full days in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,150 ft) or the Sacred Valley before starting any high-altitude trek.
How fit do I need to be for an Andean trek?
You should have a moderate to good level of physical fitness. Regular cardiovascular training (hiking, running, stair climbing) 1 to 2 months prior to your trip is highly beneficial.
What if I get severe altitude sickness on the trail?
Our lead guides are certified in Wilderness First Aid and carry pulse oximeters and supplemental oxygen tanks on every trek. If necessary, a guide will safely escort you to a lower elevation.
Can I take altitude sickness medication on the trek?
Yes. Many travelers use Acetazolamide (Diamox). We recommend consulting your doctor before taking any altitude medication.
Is drinking Coca tea safe and helpful for altitude?
Yes! Coca tea is a natural local remedy that aids acclimatization, improves oxygen absorption, and boosts energy levels.
What is the maximum altitude on the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Pass reaches 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) above sea level on Day 2.
Are children or elderly travelers allowed on the treks?
Yes. We welcome families and active seniors, provided children are at least 8 years old and seniors are accustomed to regular hiking. Private custom itineraries are ideal for families.
🥾 Gear, Packing & Porter Allowances
What is the weight limit for my duffel bag carried by porters?
On the Inca Trail, your provided duffel bag limit is strictly 7 kg (15 lbs) per person, which includes your sleeping bag and sleeping pad.
What should I carry in my personal daypack?
Your daypack (20L–30L) should hold your passport, water, snacks, rain jacket, warm layer, camera, sunblock, insect repellent, and personal medications.
Can I rent sleeping bags and trekking poles from you?
Yes! We offer high-quality down sleeping bags (-10°C rated) and rubber-tipped trekking poles for rent in Cusco.
Why are rubber tips required on trekking poles for the Inca Trail?
Metal tips damage the original stone paving built by the Incas. Rubber tips protect the historical trail structure.
What kind of footwear is best for the treks?
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and well-broken-in tread are strongly recommended. Avoid brand-new shoes to prevent blisters.
Where can I leave the rest of my luggage during the trek?
You can store your main luggage safely for free at your Cusco hotel storage facility or at our office during your trek.
Is rental gear included in the trek price?
Sleeping bags, trekking poles, and personal duffel bags can be rented for an additional small fee, though we provide high-grade sleeping pads and dining tents free of charge.
What clothing layers should I pack for changing weather?
The Andes experience dramatic temperature swings. Pack moisture-wicking base layers, a fleece mid-layer, a down jacket for cold nights, and a 100% waterproof jacket/poncho.
Are headlamps required on the trail?
Yes. Headlamps are essential for walking around campsites at night and for the early morning summit hike on the final day.
⛺ On the Trail: Camping, Food & Facilities
What type of food is served on the trek?
Our professional trail chefs prepare fresh, hot, gourmet meals using fresh local Peruvian ingredients. Menus include soups, main courses, vegetables, grains (quinoa), and desserts.
Can you accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or food allergy diets?
Yes! We cater to all dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, nut allergies) at no extra charge. Just let us know when booking.
Is drinking water provided during the trek?
Yes. We provide boiled, treated, and cooled clean drinking water at every mealtime starting from Lunch on Day 1.
What are the bathroom facilities like on the campsites?
We bring our own private chemical campsite toilet tents for our group’s exclusive use, ensuring hygiene and comfort away from public park toilets.
Can I charge my phone or camera battery on the trail?
There are no electrical outlets along most mountain trails. You must bring a high-capacity portable power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh).
Will I have cell phone service or Wi-Fi during the trek?
Cell service is extremely limited or non-existent once you enter mountain valleys. Consider the trek a wonderful opportunity to unplug!
What are the tents like?
We use spacious 4-season 3-person tents for every 2 hikers to ensure maximum comfort and room for your gear.
Are showers available on the trail?
Most wilderness campsites do not have warm showers. We provide warm water basins every morning and evening for basic washing.
How big are your group sizes?
We maintain small group sizes with a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 8 travelers per group to ensure personalized attention and low environmental impact.
🏛️ Machu Picchu & Travel Logistics
How do we get back to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu?
After your guided tour of Machu Picchu, you will take a bus down to Aguas Calientes town, where you will board the Expedition or Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport back to Cusco.
Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, but extra permits are required and must be requested at the time of booking for an additional fee, subject to daily availability.
How much time do we spend inside the Machu Picchu Citadel?
Guided tours through the official circuit inside Machu Picchu take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours according to government regulations.
Are luggage/backpacks allowed inside Machu Picchu?
Daypacks larger than 20 liters are not permitted inside the citadel. Larger bags can be stored in lockers at the main entrance for 5 PEN (~$1.50 USD).
What items are strictly prohibited inside Machu Picchu?
Single-use plastic bottles, large umbrellas, tripods, drones, walking sticks with metal tips, and baby strollers are prohibited.
What circuit do we visit in Machu Picchu after the Inca Trail?
Inca Trail permits automatically grant access to Circuit 1 or 3 (depending on park allocations) entering directly through the historic Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Is there a toilet inside the Machu Picchu Citadel?
No. Restrooms are located outside the main entrance gate before you enter the park.
🤝 Guides, Porters & Culture
Are your guides local and licensed?
Yes! All our lead guides are 100% native Cusqueños who hold university degrees in Tourism and official professional guiding licenses (DIRCETUR).
What languages do your guides speak?
All our guides are fluent in English, Spanish, and native Quechua.
How does Machu Picchu Kingdom care for its porters?
We adhere to strict ethical porter welfare policies: fair above-standard wages, warm high-quality sleeping gear, proper meals, medical coverage, and strict compliance with the 20 kg load limit law.
How much should I tip the porters, chefs, and guides?
Tipping is optional but deeply appreciated in Peruvian culture. Groups typically pool together 150–200 PEN ($40–$50 USD) total per porter, and $10–$15 USD per day per traveler for the guide.
What is the best time of year to trek in Cusco?
The dry season runs from April to October, offering clear blue skies and cool nights. Peak months are May through August.
Is the Inca Trail open all year round?
The Inca Trail is closed every year during the entire month of February for trail maintenance, environmental recovery, and conservation work.
Do I need travel insurance for a trek in Peru?
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers high-altitude hiking (up to 5,000 m), emergency medical evacuation, and trip cancellations is mandatory for all our treks.