If you have doubt or questions about the Inca Trail, here you’ll find the frequently asked questions.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has been coined in many guides as the “best short hike in the world” and with a little practice almost anyone can hike the Classic Inca Trail, but only with a permit and authorized tour operator like: Sunrise Peru Trek Travel & Tours.
We Are Specializing in high-quality treks along the Inca Trail and up to Machu Picchu for over three decades, here you’ll find everything you need to know about hiking the Classic Inca Trail or the short Inca Trail, with additional tips from our adventure experts.
Trip and Trek Faq’s
If I want to extend my trip: can I change the date of my flight tickets?
Yes, we will make a change as long as there is space on the plane. Sometimes, you will have to pay an extra $10.00 USD to change the date depending on the airline.
Is there a minimum or maximum age for the tour?
There is no age limit but on this tour, it will be very important for people under 18 years of age to travel with an adult as their representative. We recommended people over 50 to consult a doctor to make sure you have no health problems that could bother you on this tour. It is important to travel with a travel insurance.
How far in advance do I have to book a tour?
We recommended you to make a reservation as far as 2 or 3 months in advance before the date of the tour because the number of visitors to the trail are limited (200 tourists and 300 porters). You can ask about the available dates by calling per Telefax: +51 84 51 84 237404 Or RPC: 051-950313131.
Is the trek difficult, do I need to be in great shape?
Discovery Inca Highway is a programme designed for travellers with and without trekking experience. You will arrive in Cusco 2 days before you start to hike. This will give you an opportunity to acclimatize to the altitude. You will do simple activities on this days (check the itinerary about) which will also help. The Inca Trail is 45 km and the maximum elevation is 4,200 masl. The trek consists of walking slowly enjoying the mountain views, the plants, and the birds, stopping for snacks and lunch and for explanations of Inca history. The first day, we will walk 15km/8 hours, second day 15km/8 hours, the third day 10km/5 hours and the last day 5km/2 hours. The first day is always the hardest. We use the non-traditional camping sites to be closer to nature. We recommended that you run, walk, or go to the gym on a regular basis before you come. This will make your trip more enjoyable. Our goal is that everyone who does the Inca Trail with “SUNRISE PERU TREK” finishes and has a great time.
What if i am very slow or want to see more?
You will never be left alone, if you are the last one in your group. The guides will keep you informed of distances and hours to be covered after every break, as an average people walk at a rate of 1.7 km per hour meaning a slow pace and resting while you are receiving explanation about the Inca sites and environment from our guide.
How do I make a Payment/deposit?
We require a non-refundable trek deposit of $150.00 USD per person (for Inca trail tour). The deposit can be sent by a WESTERN UNION by money transfer OR DIRECTLY DEPOSIT this is the fastest and most secure form of payment in Peru. The money transfer should be in the name of “SUNRISE PERU TREK TOUR OPERATOR E.I.R.L”. Once you arrive in Cusco, you must pay the remaining balance in cash prior to beginning your tour. We accept both US Dollars and Peruvian Soles (local currency).
Why do I need to send a deposit?
We use your deposit (non- refundable) to pay official fees when making your official reservation. For example, we need to pay tourist and porters entrance fees at INC and taxes (19%). We also use it to confident chefs, porters and horses for our different treks.
Can I use trekking poles or a walking stick on the Inca trail?
It helps when you are climbing steps and on various sections of the trail. We normally recommended trekking poles but the spikes should be protected with rubber tips so not to destroy the paved Inca stones. You can purchase trekking poles in Cusco made of dry bamboo wood.
What is the weather like on the Inca trail?
The Inca Trail runs across the mountains and the cloud forest. You can expect variable weather conditions. You always need to be prepared for all kinds of weather. Here, there are two seasons: summer from November to May (rainy season). Days are warm and humid. Nights are not very cold. The winter season is from April to October (dry season). Nights are cold and days are dry, hot and it rarely rains.
How much drinking water do I have to carry?
The first day, you must carry one litre of drinkable water. If you run out, you can buy more along the trail around midday. After lunch time and at every meal, we will have available drinkable water to refill your water bottle. It’s not necessary to carry purification pills with you.
Where can I store items that I don’t want to take with me on the tour?
You can leave items in the hotel or at the “Sunrise Peru Trek” office while you are on the tour. You do not have to pay extra for this.
Can I have a private room in the hotel?
Yes, but it will cost $20.00 USD extra per night.