Aditional information
Important Information
Arrival in Cusco
Upon arrival at Cusco airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Please provide your flight details at least 14 days before your arrival. Look for our representative with an orange Inca Expeditions board at the arrival terminal exit.
The Briefing
A briefing will be held the evening before your trek at 6 PM at our office located at Calle Garcilaso 210, Office 207 (second floor), La Casa del Abuelo shopping center.
Can I Store My Luggage at Your Office?
Yes! During the Huchuy Qosqo trek, you can store your main luggage at our office or your hotel. Please note that the train only allows carry-on sized duffels or suitcases.
How to Book the Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu
First, to book your Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu, complete our booking form by clicking on the “BOOK NOW” button on our homepage or through the provided BOOK NOW link.
Be prepared with the following information for each participant in your group. We cannot purchase trek permits or train tickets without this information:
- Full name (as per passport)
- Gender
- Passport number
- Date of birth (dd / mm / yyyy)
- Nationality
We require passport copies at the time of booking.
Second, a deposit of $211.00 USD per person is needed to secure your trek permit. You can make your deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL icons on our homepage or booking page.
What About the Balance?
To avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you can settle your balance in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco. Numerous ATMs are available within the historical center for cash withdrawals. Alternatively, you may choose to pay via VISA or PAYPAL online, though a 5.5% service fee will apply. For PAYPAL payments, log into your account and use our email address: incasexpeditions@gmail.com.
How Do I Qualify for the Student Discount?
Peruvian law stipulates that to qualify for a student discount, you must be under 18 at the time of your trek or tour to Machu Picchu. Students aged 18 and above must present a valid university ID card. For instance, if you are 17 at the time of booking but turn 18 before the trek, a valid university ID is required.
University students need to provide a copy of their ID card, showing a photo, university name, and card expiration date, valid only for the current academic year.
- Discount for students aged 11 to 17: $30 USD.
- Discount for children aged 2 to 11: $40 USD.
- Children under 2 years: Free.
All students must submit a copy of their passport at the time of booking to receive the discount. Please email it to info@incasexpeditions.com.
Can I Change the Date After the Tickets Have Been Bought?
Unfortunately, once Machu Picchu tickets are purchased, they cannot be changed as per Peruvian government regulations. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Contact our office immediately if you need to adjust your date. Please note that the deposit for the Huchuy Qosqo Trek Machu Picchu is non-refundable.
Do I Need to Bring My Original Passport on the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?
Yes, it is essential to bring your original passport, which must match the copy used for booking your trek and other reservations. If you are renewing your passport or changing your name, send us the details of your old passport to secure your permit. We can update it when you receive your new passport number or name change for a fee of $25 USD per person. You must provide copies of both your old and new passports. If you choose not to pay this fee, you must bring both passports with you to Peru. You will need both to enter Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, or board the train.
What Is the Weather Like on the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?
Weather conditions are highly unpredictable, so we recommend dressing in layers to adapt to rapidly changing weather patterns.
What About Altitude Sickness?
To mitigate altitude sickness, it’s advisable to engage in regular exercise and spend 1-2 days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. The recommended remedies include WATER, COCA TEA, and OXYGEN if needed; our guides are trained to assist with altitude sickness. For more detailed information, refer to our Altitude Sickness link.
How Many People Are There Per Group?
We limit our groups to a maximum of 8 participants, with typical group sizes ranging from 2 to 6. Inca Expeditions specializes in small, private groups to provide a more personalized experience.
Hiking Huchuy Qosqo Trek
Before starting your trek, you will receive a small duffel bag for packing your clothes. The train only allows carry-on-sized duffels or suitcases. During the trek, a day backpack of about 30 liters is sufficient to carry personal items like a warm jacket, rain gear, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water.
Is the Trek Difficult? Do I Need to Be Fit?
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek covers 16 km (10 miles) through the Andes, reaching an altitude of 4,200 m (13,779 ft). The trek is of easy to moderate difficulty. A moderate fitness level and regular exercise are recommended. Prepare by walking 15 km a day or visiting a fitness club leading up to the trek. Acclimatizing to the altitude is crucial; spending 2-3 days in Cusco (3,350 m / 11,047 ft) or the Sacred Valley is advised.
What Happens If I’m Unable to Finish the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?
In the rare event you cannot complete the trek due to health issues, Inca Expeditions will assist with transportation to the nearest town. Oxygen is carried on the trek for respiratory problems, and in extreme cases, a helicopter pickup can be arranged at your own expense (travel insurance required). Refunds are not provided for incomplete treks. Generally, those needing assistance are taken to Ollantaytambo, and if they recover, they may continue to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu as planned (cost incurred by the trekker).
Will We Be Dropped Off at Our Hotel After the Trek?
Yes, the package includes drop-off at your hotel on the final day. If you have booked accommodation in the Sacred Valley, such as Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will drop you there as well. If you stay in Ollantaytambo before the trek, we will pick you up from there too.
At What Time Is the Train Departure?
Train departure times depend on availability, with high season potentially affecting booking. We aim to give you ample time in Machu Picchu and to enjoy the return journey. Typically, trains are booked for 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM.
How Much Is the Vistadome Upgrade?
The Vistadome train offers upgraded seating, panoramic windows, and additional amenities such as snacks and a dance show. You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for $67 USD. This train service operates from Aguas Calientes to Poroy, where we will pick you up for a 25-minute drive back to Cusco. Please request this upgrade in advance.
Tipping
While tipping is not compulsory, it is greatly appreciated if you are satisfied with the services provided. Tipping motivates our staff to continue delivering excellent service and is a customary practice in the tourism industry in many Inca Expeditions destinations. Tip amounts should reflect your perception of the service quality and the duration of your trip.
Are We Sustainable?
Yes, we are committed to sustainable and responsible tourism practices. We adhere to universal tourism principles, protecting the environment and benefiting local communities by respecting their culture and traditions. All our local staff are trained to understand and honor the local environment and its people.
