Aditional information
Important Information
Please review the following details to help address your questions about our services and the trek to Machu Picchu.
Arrival in Cusco
Upon arrival at Cusco airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Please provide your complete flight details at least 14 days before your arrival. Look for our representative holding an orange INCA EXPEDITIONS sign at the airport exit.
The Briefing
A briefing will be held the night before the trek at 6 PM at our office, located at Calle Garcilaso 210, Office 213 (second floor) in the La CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.
Can I Store My Luggage at Your Office?
Yes, you can store your main luggage either at our office or your hotel during the trek, whichever is more convenient for you.
How to Book the Huchuy Qosqo Trek
To book the Huchuy Qosqo Trek, complete our booking form by clicking on “BOOK NOW” on our homepage or use the provided link.
You will need the following information from each participant to process the booking:
- Full name (as per passport)
- Gender
- Passport number
- Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
- Nationality
Deposit and Balance
A deposit of $211.00 USD per person is required to secure your permit for the trek. You can pay this deposit via VISA or PAYPAL on our website.
For the remaining balance, you can avoid high credit card fees in Peru by paying in cash (USD or Peruvian soles) at our office. ATMs are available in the historical center for cash withdrawal. Alternatively, you can pay online via VISA or PAYPAL, with a 5.5% service fee. Use our PAYPAL email address incasexpeditions@gmail.com to complete the payment.
Changing the Departure Date
Unfortunately, once Machu Picchu tickets are purchased, the government does not permit changes. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Contact our office as soon as possible if you need to change your date. Note that the deposit is non-refundable if you cancel.
Passport Requirements
You must bring the original passport used for booking. If you’re renewing or changing your passport, provide your old passport details to secure your permit. We can update your information for a $25 USD fee. If you prefer not to pay this fee, bring both old and new passports to Peru. You will need both passports to enter the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, or board the train.
Weather Conditions
The weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers to adapt to changing conditions. We recommend packing warm clothing and good rain gear.
Altitude Sickness
To minimize the risk of altitude sickness, exercise regularly and spend 2 to 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley for acclimatization. Drink plenty of water, coca tea, and use oxygen if necessary. Our guides are trained to assist with altitude sickness. For more details, check our link on Altitude Sickness.
Hiking the Huchuy Qosqo Trek
The evening before the trek, you’ll receive a small duffel bag for your belongings, with a weight limit of 7kg/14lbs. Porters will carry this bag along with food and camping gear. During the trek, use a day backpack for personal items such as a warm jacket, rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water. A 30L backpack is usually sufficient.
Difficulty and Fitness Level
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is a 20 km/12-mile hike through the Andes, reaching a maximum altitude of 4,200m/13,779ft. It is considered easy to moderately difficult. Regular exercise and good acclimatization are important. Prepare by walking 15 km daily or going to the gym in the months leading up to the trek. Spend at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco before starting.
If Unable to Finish the Trek
If you cannot complete the trek due to health issues, INCA EXPEDITIONS will assist with transportation to the nearest town. We carry oxygen for respiratory issues, and in extreme cases, a helicopter pickup can be arranged at your expense (travel insurance required). There are no refunds if you are unable to finish the trek. Generally, those needing assistance are taken to Ollantaytambo and, if recovered, may continue to Aguas Calientes (at trekker’s cost) and visit Machu Picchu as planned.
Hotel Drop-Off
We provide drop-off at your hotel after the trek, including in the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo or Urubamba). If you stay in Ollantaytambo before the trek, we will pick you up there as well.
Train Departure Time
Train departure times depend on availability. During peak season, trains may book out quickly. We aim to maximize your time at Machu Picchu and usually book trains for 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM.
Tipping
While tipping is not mandatory, it is appreciated if you are satisfied with the service. Tips are a meaningful way to reward excellent service and are customary in many tourism destinations. You can tip according to your perception of service quality and trip duration.
Sustainability
We are committed to sustainable and responsible tourism, respecting the environment and local communities. Our local staff is trained to understand and respect the cultural and environmental aspects of their work.
