Difficulty
Duration
Group Size
Max Altitude
CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK & MACHU PICCHU 5D/4N.
Starting from
US$860
per person
The New Amazon Route
This off-the-beaten-path trail gives you the opportunity to enjoy your trek in complete tranquility, far away from the tourist crowds. You’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and ancient history of the Andes, feeling a deep connection to the very paths the Incas once walked.
Cusco | Santa Teresa – Cocalmayo Hot Springs – Yanama
Your epic adventure begins at 5:00 a.m. when we pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco. From there, we will travel in our private transport for about 4 hours to Santa Teresa, enjoying stunning views of snow-capped peaks along the way. The standard route passes through Ollanta Tambo and crests the imposing Abra Malaga pass (at 4,350 m / 14,271 ft) before beginning the descent into the valley. During this drive, you will notice how the landscape quickly transitions from the Andean highlands to the lush, dense vegetation of the cloud forest.
Upon arriving in Santa Teresa, we will head to the Cocalmayo hot springs, located just a 10 to 15-minute drive from the town center. This is an unbeatable strategic stop: we will relax our muscles by soaking in these thermo-medicinal pools on the banks of the Urubamba River, providing the best physical reset possible.
After enjoying our lunch, we will resume our journey from Santa Teresa, taking the unpaved mountain road that ascends towards the village of Yanama. This section of the drive takes between 3 and 4 hours, and this is where the topography becomes truly rugged. Perched at 3,569 m (11,709 ft), Yanama is an authentic Quechua community. Here, we will set up our camp and share dinner with the entire team. As night falls, you can go stargazing under a clear sky, treating yourself to views that are simply unforgettable.
Quick Facts:
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
- Accommodation:
- Total Transport Time: 8 hours.
- Difficulty Level:
- Minimum Altitude: 1,600 m / 5,249 ft.
- Maximum Altitude: 4,350 m / 14,271 ft.
Yanama | San Juan Pass – Choquequirao Pass – Choquequirao Campsite
Our staff will wake you up early, at 5:00 a.m., with a comforting cup of hot coca tea brought directly to your tent. While we pack the extra gear to send with our horses, we will enjoy a delicious and nutritious breakfast prepared by our chefs to recharge your energy for the day ahead.
The day begins with a steep ascent of approximately 2 hours from Yanama (3,569 m / 11,709 ft) towards the San Juan Pass (Abra San Juan), the highest point of this section, reaching nearly 4,150 m (13,615 ft). As you gain elevation, the landscape opens up to reveal the imposing Vilcabamba mountain range, rewarding you with privileged views of the Pumasillo glacier. This pass is a spectacular natural balcony—the perfect setting to launch a drone, take advantage of the clear morning light, and visually document the vastness of this historic territory.
After conquering the pass and navigating the impressive descent that separates us from the complex, we will reach our destination. In the afternoon, following a well-deserved lunch, we will walk through the Choquequirao archaeological site. You will have plenty of time to explore its different sectors, take photographs of its impressive mountain-adapted architecture, and appreciate the setting sun.
Finally, we will head to our second campsite, Choquequirao (2,950 m / 9,678 ft), strategically located within the park itself. We will spend the rest of the evening there, taking in the beautiful Andean sunset. As night falls, we will share tea time and an excellent dinner in the heart of the mountains.
Quick Facts:
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Accommodation: Camping.
- Total Walking Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles.
- Total Walking Time: 7-8 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate.
- Minimum Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft.
- Maximum Altitude: 4,150 m / 13,615 ft.
Campsite Elevation: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft.
Exploration of Choquequirao | Return to Yanama – Camp in Lucmabamba
Today is the day to thoroughly discover the majesty of Choquequirao (3,100 m / 10,168 ft). After a delicious and comforting breakfast, we will begin our guided exploration led by our expedition leader.
During the morning, we will immerse ourselves in history by visiting the most important sectors of this impressive archaeological site. We will walk step by step through the religious sector, the administrative area, the imposing Usno (ceremonial platform), the ancient granaries, and the famous agricultural terraces decorated with white stone llama figures. It will be the perfect moment to capture the grandeur of these structures and understand the visual dominance the Incas held over the deep canyon.
After lunch, we will begin our return hike towards the village of Yanama. Following this demanding yet rewarding trek through the mountains, we will board our private transport, which will take us directly to Lucmabamba. There, our third campsite will be set up and waiting for us, ready to provide a well-deserved night of rest immersed in nature.
Quick Facts:
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Accommodation: Cabins.
- Total Walking Distance: 18 km / 11.1 miles.
- Total Walking Time: 5 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate.
- Minimum Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft.
- Maximum Altitude: 4,150 m / 13,615 ft.
Accommodation Elevation: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft.
Lucmabamba | Llaqtapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
Today we will enjoy the sunrise surrounded by lush tropical scenery, accompanied by the sound of rivers and waterfalls, and enveloped by orchids and vibrant plantations of bananas, avocados, and the region's famous coffee. After a nutritious breakfast, we will prepare for the next great stage of our adventure.
The morning ascent follows a wide and magnificently preserved section of the Qhapaq Ñan (the original Inca Trail). It will be an uphill hike of approximately 3 hours under the shade of the forest canopy until we crown Llaqtapata. This imposing archaeological center, strategically located along the route, offers an unparalleled reward: your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu from a unique rear angle. Once at the site, you will have plenty of time to explore its buildings, study its fascinating visual alignment with the main citadel, and, weather permitting, gaze once more at the majesty of the snow-capped Salkantay mountain in the distance.
Next, we will begin a 3-hour descent down a zigzagging trail that leads to the Hidroeléctrica area. A restorative lunch and a well-deserved rest will be waiting for us there. The final part of the day consists of a fascinating, flat, 3-hour walk alongside the train tracks, surrounded by dense tropical vegetation, until we reach the picturesque town of Aguas Calientes.
Once in town, we will check you into your hotel, where you can enjoy a comforting hot shower and relax your body. At 7:00 p.m., we will gather for our final expedition dinner at an excellent tourist restaurant. After dinner, it will be time to rest, with excitement peaking for our final day and the ultimate reward that awaits us: the citadel of Machu Picchu.
Quick Facts:
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Total Walking Distance: 25 km / 15.5 miles.
- Total Walking Time: 9 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Challenging.
- Minimum Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft.
- Maximum Altitude: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft.
Accommodation Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft.
Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
The big day has arrived! Today is the culmination of our adventure and the moment to enjoy the ultimate reward. We will wake up very early to have a good breakfast, make the most of the morning, and be among the first to enter the citadel.
To ascend to the Machu Picchu archaeological park, we offer the eco-friendly bus ride. Since your muscles might need a break after so many days of trekking, you can take one of the first buses (starting at 5:30 a.m.). The winding journey from Aguas Calientes to the entrance takes about 25 minutes.
For your total comfort, the hotel will store your main luggage. This way, you will only need to carry a small daypack with your essentials (water, camera, sunscreen).
Once inside Machu Picchu, our guide will take you directly to the upper section—the perfect strategic vantage point for you to marvel at the Inca architecture and capture the classic "postcard" photograph in the early morning light. Then, we will begin a comprehensive guided tour of approximately 2 hours through the urban, religious, and agricultural sectors of the citadel. Throughout this tour, you will gain a deep understanding of the history, engineering, and culture of the Inca Empire.
At the end of the circuit, you will have free time to continue exploring. If you booked any of the additional hikes in advance, your guide will show you the access point:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: A steep and spectacular route that takes no more than 2 hours round trip (requires advance booking, additional cost of $65 USD).
- Machu Picchu Mountain: A longer and more demanding hike than the previous one, offering unparalleled panoramic views. It takes a minimum of 3 hours round trip (requires advance booking, additional cost of $65 USD).
When you feel satisfied that you have absorbed the energy of this exceptional place, we will begin the return to Aguas Calientes, either by hiking down or taking the bus back (additional cost of $12 USD). You will have free time to enjoy lunch (not included), and depending on your train departure time, you can stroll through the town, go shopping, or visit the hot springs.
In the afternoon, we will board the tourist train (Expedition class) with departures at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m. You will enjoy a spectacular return journey following the course of the Urubamba River, watching the narrow canyon give way to beautiful Andean landscapes. Upon arriving at the Ollantaytambo station, our driver will be waiting for your final private transfer, dropping you off at the door of your hotel in Cusco at approximately 7:30 p.m.
Quick Facts:
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Total Walking Time: 2 hours.
- Guided Tour Duration: 2 hours (plus free time).
- Difficulty Level: Easy.
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,400 m / 7,874 ft.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft.
- Machu Picchu Mountain Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft.
What Is Included?
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
✅ PRE-DEPARTURE BRIEFING One day before your trip at 6:00 p.m. (at your hotel or our office), you will meet with your guide to review the itinerary, weather, and safety protocols. You will also receive your duffel bag, where you can pack up to 7 kg (15.4 lbs) of your belongings. This bag will be carried by our horses so you can hike completely light.
✅ PERMITS & ENTRANCE FEES
- Choquequirao Entrance Ticket: Guaranteed official entry to explore the majestic Inca citadel, known as the “Cradle of Gold,” with the freedom to roam all its archaeological sectors.
- Cocalmayo Hot Springs Entrance: Admission to the relaxing thermal baths.
- Machu Picchu Archaeological Zone Entrance Ticket (Circuit 2): There are several circuits to explore the citadel, and we guarantee the best available option at the time of your booking. Our priority is to secure Circuit 2 (Route 2-A or 2-B), which takes you to the iconic panoramic viewpoint and allows you to explore 80% of the citadel. If spaces are sold out, we guarantee entry via Circuit 3 (Lower Terrace), an excellent alternative that allows you to visit 60% of the sanctuary.
✅ FIELD STAFF
- Professional Bilingual Guides: Accredited local experts with 3 to 10 years of trekking experience. They are highly trained in first aid, rescue techniques, and group management to ensure your safety. Hailing from Andean communities, they will share their deep cultural heritage with you, making your journey an authentic and unique experience.
- Expert Trail Chefs: Trained in local culinary schools, our cooks master traditional Peruvian cuisine, modern Andean dishes, international fare, as well as vegetarian and vegan options. They design each menu with nutritional value in mind to give you maximum energy, always ensuring fast service and the highest standards of hygiene and food safety at every camp.
- Horsemen and Pack Horses (Your comfort is our priority): So, you can fully enjoy the scenery, we have an expert team of horsemen and horses. They will handle the heavy lifting: transporting the camping equipment, provisions, and a duffel bag with up to 7 kilos (15.4 lbs) of your personal belongings (sleeping bag included). You only need to carry a small daypack with your daily essentials. We handle the rest of the logistics between camps.
✅ 7 KG DUFFEL BAG (Travel Light) For your ultimate comfort, during the briefing, we will provide you with a duffel bag that holds up to 7 kilos of your personal items. We will transport it by horse along the route so it’s waiting for you in your tent at the end of the day. This way, you can enjoy the hike carrying only the essentials in your daypack.
✅ MEALS & NUTRITION
- Meals on the Trail (Energy and Peruvian Flavor): 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners.
- Complete Breakfasts: Start the day with fruit salad, yogurt, oatmeal, pancakes, scrambled eggs, bread, butter, and hot drinks (coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or milk).
- Buffet Lunches: Recharge with a comforting soup and 2 to 4 main course options. You will taste jewels of Peruvian gastronomy like the traditional Lomo Saltado or the delicious Ají de Gallina! (We adapt our menu with vegetarian and vegan options upon request).
- Restorative Dinners: Hot soups, chicken, pasta, and vegetables for a perfect night’s rest.
- Andean Wake-up: Forget the morning chill. Our team will wake you up every day by bringing a comforting cup of hot coca tea directly to your tent.
- Tea Time (Happy Hour): Every afternoon, we will be waiting for you with popcorn, cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, and teas to share the day’s stories.
- Trail Snacks: We will provide fresh and dried fruits, cookies, and chocolates to keep your energy levels high.
- Hygiene: We will provide soap and a small towel to wash your hands before enjoying every meal.
✅ ACCOMMODATION
- 3 Nights of Camping (Real connection with Pachamama): Like our ancestors, we feel a deep respect for Mother Earth. That’s why you will spend these three nights resting in campsites and lodges designed to blend harmoniously with the Andean landscape. We take care of every logistical detail to ensure your experience is completely sustainable and leaves no environmental footprint.
- Day 4: Hotel (Your well-deserved rest in Aguas Calientes): For your final night before the big visit to the citadel, you will stay in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes. You can recharge with a hot shower, private bathroom, and Wi-Fi to share your photos. The next morning, you will enjoy a good breakfast, and we will safely store your luggage at the hotel so you can explore Machu Picchu light and worry-free.
✅ PRIVATE CAMPING EQUIPMENT
- 4-Season Tents (Your safe haven): Ultra-resistant tents, ready to withstand any whim of the Andean weather, from heavy rain to snow.
- Therm-a-Rest Sleeping Pads: Forget the cold ground. Our premium inflatable sleeping pads guarantee a warm and 100% restorative night’s sleep.
- Dining Tent: Our meeting point. A spacious tent with a table and chairs where you can enjoy every meal comfortably, completely protected from the elements.
- Kitchen Tent: The heart of our logistics. It is fully equipped for our chef to work their magic and prepare spectacular dishes in the middle of nature.
✅ TRANSPORTATION
- Day 1: We pick you up from your hotel very early to take you in our private transport to Yanama, where the adventure begins.
- Day 3: Private transport from Yanama to Lucmabamba to continue the route.
- Day 5 (Ascent to the Citadel): Includes the Consettur bus ticket (one-way) for a comfortable ride from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance.
- Day 5 (Return to Cusco): Includes the train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (departures between 14:30 and 15:20, subject to availability). You will have the morning free to explore the town and have a relaxed lunch. After a 2-hour train ride through beautiful scenery, our Bestreks team will be waiting at the Ollantaytambo station to take you via private transport directly to Plaza Regocijo in Cusco.
- Day 5 (Private Transfer): Bestreks Private Transfer (Ollantaytambo Station ➔ Plaza Regocijo, Cusco). Approximate arrival time: 19:00 hrs.
- Pack Mules (Hike without extra weight): So, you can enjoy every step without exhausting yourself, our pack mules will carry all the heavy weight: the camping equipment and your allowed luggage (7 kg / 15.4 lbs). Our expert horsemen will take care of your duffel bag at all times. You just focus on admiring the Andean landscape!
✅ EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT & REMOTE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
- Constant Radio Communication: Our entire team stays connected at all times via long-range radios (10 km). We are always coordinated!
- First Aid Kit: We carry everything needed for basic treatments and minor trail ailments (disinfectants, bandages, muscle or stomach pain relievers, etc.).
- Portable Oxygen Tank: Breathe easy! We carry oxygen to help you quickly overcome any symptoms of altitude sickness.
- VERY IMPORTANT! Please remember that our guides are mountain experts, but they are not doctors. They cannot prescribe medications; therefore, any pill from the first aid kit you decide to take will be under your own consent and responsibility. If you take specific medication, do not forget to pack your own prescriptions from home!
What Is Not Included?
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
❌ EQUIPMENT RENTALS
- High-Altitude Sleeping Bags ($20 USD): Don’t want to bring yours from home? We’ll rent you one! We have professional sleeping bags (mummy design) that will keep you warm even at -18°C (0°F). They include a very comfortable inner liner, and we guarantee they go through a strict washing and disinfection process after every use.
- Trekking Poles ($20 USD per pair): Take care of your knees on the trail! We offer rubber-tipped hiking poles for rent. They are the perfect accessory to provide stability and balance on the uneven Andean trails, making ascents and descents much more manageable.
❌ ADDITIONAL HIKES AT MACHU PICCHU
- Huayna Picchu Mountain ($65 USD): Climb the iconic mountain that frames the classic photos of Machu Picchu. The hike is a steep 45-minute ascent (2 hours round trip) and rewards you with a stunning 360° view of the citadel and the Urubamba River. Important: Access is strictly limited to 400 people per day (in shifts at 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.), so tickets must be booked months in advance.
- Machu Picchu Mountain ($65 USD): Located opposite Huayna Picchu, this mountain offers the widest panoramic view of the citadel, the surrounding mountains, and the Urubamba River. It is a safe route with no technical difficulty, but it is physically demanding. The ascent takes between 1 and 1.5 hours, totaling 2 to 3 hours for the full round trip.
❌ PERSONAL GEAR & INSURANCE
- Personal Hiking Clothing and Gear: (e.g., hiking boots, rain jackets, daypacks).
- Travel Insurance: While not mandatory, we highly recommend our clients purchase travel insurance in case of flight issues or unexpected health emergencies. Please check if your policy has altitude restrictions: some policies are void above 4,000 m (13,123 ft).
❌ UNFORESEEN EXPENSES
- Additional Costs: Any expenses arising from delays completely out of management’s control (such as landslides, bad weather, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, changes in government policies, political instability, strikes, etc.).
❌ TIPS / GRATUITIES FOR YOUR CREW
- Acknowledging our support team: Behind every great experience is a team working tirelessly. Tipping is a traditional way to thank our horsemen, chefs, and guides for their extra effort. If you feel the team did an exceptional job, a tip is always welcome. Typically, groups organize to give a joint tip to the mountain staff before parting ways, and to the main guide at the end of the Machu Picchu tour.
- Why are tips important?
- Recognizing effort: It is a tangible show of gratitude for the hard work of our horsemen, cooks, and guides, who work tirelessly to make your experience safe and memorable.
- Supporting the local economy: Your contribution directly impacts the families of the high Andean communities that are part of our team.
- Fostering excellence: Gratuities motivate our staff to maintain the highest standards of hospitality and personalized service.
- Positive bonds: Gestures of generosity strengthen the human connection and mutual respect between travelers and the local team.
TOUR PRICING & BOOKING
Price per Person:
- $860 USD – Adults
- $830 USD – Children and Students
To book the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek, an initial deposit of $430 USD per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.
- Student Discount: All travelers under 17 years old automatically receive a $30 USD discount. If you are 25 years old or younger at the time of travel, you can also claim this discount with a valid university student ID. Please email us to receive
- Valid Student ID for Machu Picchu: To obtain the student discount, travelers must present a valid physical university ID that clearly includes the following printed information.
⚠️ Important Note Regarding Student IDs (ISIC Cards are NOT Accepted): Although the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is recognized globally, it is not accepted by the Peruvian government to apply for student discounts at Machu Picchu. Just as a passport cannot be replaced for international travel, your physical university ID cannot be substituted by an ISIC or any other document in Peru.
The Peruvian government’s policy is incredibly strict. You must present a physical university card that meets their official criteria to qualify for the student rate. You will be required to show this physical card upon entering Machu Picchu. If your document does not meet the requirements at the checkpoint, you risk being denied entry and will be required to pay the full adult fare (subject to ticket availability). Please ensure your ID complies with Peruvian regulations before booking.
- ADD-ONS, UPDATES, SERVICES, AND IMPROVEMENTS YOU CAN INCLUDE IN THIS TRIP:
Enhance your journey with these optional services:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $65.00 USD
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $65.00 USD
- Single Room Supplement (Hotel in Aguas Calientes): $30.00 USD
- Vistadome Train Upgrade (Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo): $75.00 USD
- Rental Equipment:
- High-Altitude Sleeping Bag: $20.00 USD
- Trekking Poles (Pair): $20.00 USD
- Price Guarantee: Once you confirm your booking with us, your rate is locked in. We guarantee that the cost of your tour will not increase under any circumstances. We suggest reviewing all detailed trip information before finalizing your reservation.
- Easy & Secure Booking: Booking your trek is simple. You can secure your spot online through our website, where our platform will guide you step-by-step. Payments can be made with any major credit or debit card, and you can even choose to pay in your home country’s currency.
- To confirm your spot on this adventure, we require a non-refundable deposit of $430.00 USD. This initial payment is essential to secure your space and allows us to purchase your Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train tickets well in advance. At checkout, you will have the following options:
- Deposit Payment: Pay only the initial deposit (plus any selected add-ons).
- Full Upfront Payment: Pay the total cost of the tour online at the time of booking.
- Paying the Remaining Balance: If you chose to pay only the deposit, the pending balance must be paid upon your arrival in Cusco, at least one day before the tour begins. You can pay this balance in cash (Peruvian Soles or US Dollars) with no extra fees, or via credit/debit card online (subject to a 5% processing surcharge).
- CANCELLATION POLICIES
Due to the strict regulations set by the Machu Picchu National Park and the Choquequirao Archaeological Park, Bestreks applies the following unalterable cancellation policies:
- Permits and Entrance Tickets: We purchase your permits as soon as your booking is confirmed. By government law, once bought, these spaces cannot be canceled, transferred to another person, or modified in date. Therefore, deposits for permits are strictly non-refundable.
- Cancellations 30 days or more in advance: You will lose your initial deposit, but you retain the right to claim the physical entrance tickets and permits we have already purchased in your name.
- Cancellations 2 to 3 days before the trip: This will be considered a “no-show,” and the client will be responsible for 100% of the total tour cost. However, you will still retain the right to use your purchased entrance tickets, enjoy the guided tour of Machu Picchu on the original date, and use your train and bus tickets.
- Voluntarily abandoning the trek: If for personal or medical reasons you decide to abandon the hike once it has started, you will automatically forfeit all included services for the remaining days. Any additional return expenses (food, transport, accommodation) will be at your own expense. You may, however, rejoin the group directly at Machu Picchu to use your entrance tickets, guided tour, bus, and return train.
- Force Majeure: In the event of situations entirely beyond our control (strikes, social protests, extreme weather, flight/hotel cancellations, etc.) that prevent any part of the trip from proceeding, we will propose viable logistical alternatives. Any additional costs associated with these emergency changes will be the traveler’s responsibility.
- Important Recommendation: We strongly suggest you fully read and understand these booking and cancellation policies before making your payment. This ensures total transparency regarding your investment and guarantees a smoother, stress-free experience on your adventure.
BEFORE TRAVELING.
✅ Pre-Departure Briefing: All pre-departure briefings are held the evening before your trip begins, at 6:00 p.m., at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel). During this 30 to 45-minute session, your guide will provide you with your duffel bag for the trek. If you cannot attend at this time, please coordinate a new appointment with us in advance via email or phone.
✅ Balance Payment Conditions: Any pending balance must be paid at least 1 day before your tour to guarantee your reservation. We prefer and appreciate cash payments (US Dollars or Peruvian Soles), which can be made at our office or during your briefing (there are many ATMs available on Av. El Sol). If you prefer to use a credit card, debit card, or the IZIPAY platform (in-person or online), a 5% surcharge will apply due to payment gateway fees.
✅ Pick-Up Policy: Please note that all pick-ups take place within the city of Cusco. We suggest booking a well-located hotel, preferably in the historic center. Our guide or agency staff will confirm your exact pick-up time the day before your tour.
- Note on logistics: Due to traffic conditions, the scheduled time may vary by 30 to 45 minutes. Cusco is an ancient city characterized by narrow, cobblestone streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are located in areas without vehicular access or on long, steep hills, making luggage transport extremely difficult. For your comfort and a smoother morning, we highly recommend choosing easily accessible accommodation.
✅ Weather in the Andes: The weather in Cusco and on the trekking route is unpredictable. Generally, the dry season runs from April to October; however, this doesn’t rule out rain in June or bright sunny days in December. Regardless of the month you hike, we recommend being prepared to experience all “four seasons” in a single day, as the trail passes through various microclimates.
- Layered clothing: Dressing in layers is essential to easily adjust to temperature changes throughout the day.
- Rain and cold protection: Ensure you bring good gear, including a waterproof jacket, waterproof pants, a rain poncho, and gloves. Many people forget gloves, and the cold combined with humidity can make the hike very uncomfortable. Nights will be cold, so a warm jacket is an absolute must.
✅ Altitude Sickness (Soroche) & Digestion: For hikers traveling to Cusco straight from sea level, we strongly recommend arriving at least 2 days before your trek to acclimatize. The two most common health issues on the trail are altitude sickness and slow digestion.
- Altitude Sickness (Soroche): Common symptoms include headaches and nausea. Over-the-counter medications like Aspirin, Diamox, Sorojchi Pills, or Altivital can help minimize discomfort. If symptoms persist, our team is equipped with oxygen tanks and is fully trained to assist you immediately.
- Stomach aches & digestion: At high altitudes, digestion slows down significantly. We recommend eating light meals and drinking 3 to 4 liters of water a day to stay hydrated.
- General recommendations: Opt for warm drinks like coca tea, soups, vegetables, and light carbohydrates (avoid fried or heavy foods). Candies, chocolates, and fruits are excellent energy sources. Avoid alcohol and tobacco, try to sleep at least 8 hours, and bundle up. The golden rule for acclimatization is: eat light and drink plenty of fluids.
✅ Medical Restrictions: It is mandatory to inform our agency of any medical restrictions before your trip begins. This includes allergies, special diets, current medications, or any chronic health conditions. In case of severe medical restrictions, we highly recommend consulting your doctor to clear you for the trek. The information you provide is strictly confidential and vital to help us design a plan that guarantees a safe, pleasant, and worry-free journey.
✅ Environmental Impact & Water Consumption:
- Eco-friendly hydration: We highly recommend using reusable canteens or a Camelbak to protect the trail. Single-use plastic bottles have a devastating environmental impact on the route.
- Water supply: After our first lunch, we will provide safe, boiled drinking water for you to refill your bottles until the end of the trek.
- Additional options: If you wish to buy bottled water, you can do so at local shops on the first, second, and fourth days. You can also bring water purification tablets or personal filters; however, from past experience, some clients who use these alternatives end up with stomach aches. For your well-being, we strongly suggest filling your bottle exclusively with the boiled water we provide.
✅ Lost Items: Please pay close attention to where you leave your belongings and make sure to double-check your surroundings before getting out of our transport, leaving campsites, or exiting restaurants. You are solely responsible for your personal items throughout the entire tour.
