1 / 11

The Best of Peru 5 Days / 4 Nights

Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Cusco, Aguas Calientes

Duration 5 Days / 4 Nights

Group Size Min 2 Persons

Physical Level Easy

Best Season All Year

Meals / Food Daily buffet breakfasts at hotels + gourmet Andean lunches and dinners as indicated in the itinerary

Accommodations Selected Category

Overview & Journey Experience

This package covers a five-day journey through key areas in Peru, focusing on Cusco and nearby locations. Travelers experience a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and local customs. The schedule includes daily activities that combine guided tours with some free time. Participants start in Cusco, move through valleys, and reach high-altitude spots. Each part of the trip builds on Andean heritage, with emphasis on Inca history and current traditions. The design suits people interested in culture and light adventure. Overall, it provides a structured way to see Peru’s southern highlands.

Cusco serves as the main starting point for this itinerary. Once the capital of the Inca empire, it now blends colonial architecture with indigenous elements. Visitors often notice the stone walls from Inca times integrated into modern buildings. The altitude here requires adjustment for most people coming from lower elevations. Acclimatization happens naturally through the planned activities. Local markets offer chances to see handmade textiles and pottery. These elements add depth to the initial days.

The Sacred Valley section introduces agricultural terraces and salt mines. These features show how Incas managed resources in mountainous terrain. The area supports farming communities that maintain traditional methods. Travelers learn about quinoa cultivation and weaving techniques passed down generations. A meal included highlights regional ingredients like potatoes and corn. This part connects history with daily life in the Andes.

Moving to Aguas Calientes sets the stage for the main Inca site. The town sits below steep hills and acts as a base for exploration. Train travel there passes through river valleys. Once arrived, the focus shifts to preparation for the next day’s visit. Evening rest in a local hotel allows recovery from travel. Sometimes, I think about how the sound of the river nearby helps people sleep better after a long day.

The highlight involves exploring Machu Picchu, an extensive Inca construction. Guides provide details on its layout, including temples and living quarters. The site demonstrates advanced stonework without mortar. Visitors walk paths that reveal different sections. Afternoon return by train offers views of the landscape in reverse. This day stands out for its combination of education and scenery.

Further days incorporate trekking elements in the Salkantay area. Paths lead to lagoons and passes at higher elevations. Accommodations use dome structures for comfort in remote settings. Activities include short hikes and group meals. One personal note: sharing stories around a fire in such places often creates lasting memories for groups.

The final part features the Rainbow Mountain, known for its layered colors from minerals. The walk there tests physical limits but rewards with unique views. Return to Cusco wraps up the experience. Transfer to the airport ensures smooth departure. This sequence allows reflection on the diverse aspects covered.

Tour Highlights

Expert guides from BIO ANDEAN EXPEDITIONS provide detailed explanations on Inca sites, knowing the routes extensively, which sets our tours apart by offering in-depth cultural insights not found in standard packages from other agencies.
Agency-owned private transportation ensures safety and reliability with highly trained drivers, unlike shared options from competitors that may lack consistency.
Stays in geodome accommodations at Soraypampa include private amenities like hot showers and fireplaces, providing a more comfortable experience compared to basic camping in similar tours.
Inclusion of unique activities such as ceviche preparation and pisco sour tasting uses local organic ingredients, adding an interactive gastronomic element that enhances value over plain sightseeing itineraries.
Flexible train choices for Machu Picchu travel allow personalization, with options for panoramic views, making our package more adaptable than fixed schedules in other BIO ANDEAN EXPEDITIONS offerings or rival agencies.
Group meals emphasize natural, organic local products with international options available, offering better nutritional quality and variety than typical tour lunches from other providers.
Full representative oversight throughout the itinerary guarantees seamless coordination, a feature that improves reliability beyond what many other agencies provide.
Access to archaeological remains with timed entries and free time allows deeper exploration, distinguishing this from rushed visits in competing tours.
Combination of historical sites and natural treks creates a balanced experience, superior to specialized tours that focus only on one aspect.
BIO ANDEAN EXPEDITIONS’ accreditation ensures authentic Andean traditions are highlighted accurately, providing trustworthiness over less regulated operators.

Trip Logistics & Details

Duration: 5 days and 4 nights
Starting Location: Cusco airport
Ending Location: Cusco airport
Group Size: Options for 1 to more than 4 participants
Altitude Range: From approximately 2,430 meters to 5,200 meters
Physical Level: Mix of simple and demanding activities
Languages Offered: English and Spanish
Transport: Agency-owned private transportation with highly trained drivers
Guides: Experts in directing travelers from around the world in several languages, with wide experience in the tourist routes
Meals: Selected breakfasts, lunches, and dinners using natural origin ingredients and local organic products; options for international gastronomy available at additional costs depending on the restaurant—consult the BIO ANDEAN EXPEDITIONS reservations team
Accommodations: Hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, plus dome stays in Soraypampa
Train Options: For the journey to Machu Picchu, choose between PeruRail (offers panoramic windows in Vistadome class for better views) or Inca Rail (provides similar comfort with focus on service efficiency)
Representative Support: One of our representatives will be aware of your itinerary at all times
Operator: BIO ANDEAN EXPEDITIONS, direct and accredited in Peru for quality tourist services

Day by Day Itinerary

Detailed daily breakdown, key highlights, and logistical milestones.

Jump to:

The tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Cusco or directly from the airport if arriving early. Agency-owned private transportation with highly trained drivers takes you to the Sacred Valley. One of our representatives will be aware of your itinerary at all times. Guides, experts in directing travelers from around the world in several languages and with wide experience in the route, begin explanations on Andean farming practices. First, stop at Moray for a look at circular terraces used for crop testing by Incas. These structures show how they adapted plants to different heights. Add a bit more time here if the group wants photos. Next, head to Maras salt ponds, where evaporation creates white crystals harvested by locals. This site demonstrates ongoing traditions in salt production.

Continue to Urubamba for a group buffet lunch made with natural origin ingredients and local organic products. Options for international gastronomy are possible at additional costs—consult the BIO ANDEAN EXPEDITIONS reservations team. After eating, proceed to Ollantaytambo, an Inca site with stone walls and water channels. Guides provide detailed explanations on its function as a checkpoint. From there, board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes. For this segment, choose between PeruRail (known for reliable schedules) or Inca Rail (emphasizing passenger comfort). The ride follows the river, arriving in the evening. Pickup at the station leads to your boutique hotel. Settle in for rest; sometimes travelers share initial impressions over a quick snack.

DETALLES DEL TOUR

Altitud: 2,800 msnm. Estado físico: Sencillo Duración: Full day

RESUMEN DEL ITINERARIO

6:00 h: Llegada y recojo del aeropuerto en Cusco (aproximadamente 30 minutos).
7:00 h: Inicio del Tour Valle Sagrado (duración aproximada 6 horas).
13:00 h: Almuerzo Buffet en Urubamba (aproximadamente 60 minutos).
14:00 h: Rumbo a Ollantaytambo.
15:00 h: Tour en Ollantaytambo (aproximadamente 60 minutos).
PM: Abordar el Tren Expedición a Aguas Calientes (duración aproximada 2 horas).
PM: Recojo y traslado de la estación a hotel en Aguas Calientes.
22:00 h: Fin del día (hora aproximada de llegada al hotel).

Principales servicios incluidos:

Hotel 2*: Boutique
Guías: Inglés / Español
Tickets: Entradas
Transporte: Compartido
Comidas: Almuerzo buffet

Todos los servicios incluidos:

Recojo del aeropuerto rumbo al tour (se recomienda llegar a Cusco 6AM o antes).
Tour Valle Sagrado.
Chinchero.
Moray.
Maras.
Urubamba.
Ollantaytambo.
Guía para el grupo.
Almuerzo Buffet en Urubamba.
Tren de turistas Expedition *
Recojo en Aguas Calientes y traslado hacia el hotel.
Hotel 3* Boutique (Aguas Calientes)
Sujeto a disponibilidad y horarios aproximados.

No incluido:

Cena.
No indicados en este paquete.

Day 1 Visual Highlights

Arrival in Cusco and Sacred Valley Tour + Train to Aguas Calientes

Begin with breakfast at the hotel using fresh local items. Then, agency-owned private transportation with highly trained drivers moves you to the terminal for the ascent to Machu Picchu. Guides, who know the tourist routes well, lead the group through the Inca constructions. They offer detailed explanations on sectors like the agricultural terraces and residential areas. The layout includes precise stone fittings that highlight engineering skills. Spend time walking the paths; add pauses for questions. Free time follows to explore independently, perhaps climbing to a viewpoint.

Descend by private transportation to Aguas Calientes for lunch on your own. Use this period to visit local shops selling Andean crafts. In the afternoon, take the Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo. Select PeruRail (with large windows for scenery) or Inca Rail (focusing on smooth travel). One of our representatives monitors the schedule. Upon arrival, transfer to your Cusco hotel via agency-owned private transportation. This return allows relaxation after the day’s activities. I recall groups often discuss favorite parts during the ride, making it more engaging.

Tour Details

Altitude: 2,430 m.a.s.l.
Physical Level: Easy
Duration: Full Day

Itinerary Overview

05:00 a.m. – Breakfast at the hotel (approximately 60 minutes).
06:00 a.m. – Transfer to the bus terminal and bus ride up to Machu Picchu (approximately 40 minutes).
07:00 a.m. – Start of the guided tour in Machu Picchu (approximately 2 hours).
09:00 a.m. – Free time in Machu Picchu (approximately 60 minutes).
10:00 a.m. – Transfer to Aguas Calientes (approximately 40 minutes).
11:00 a.m. – Free time in Aguas Calientes for lunch (approximately 3 hours).
P.M. – Luxury Vistadome Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (approximately 3 hours).
P.M. – Pick-up at Ollantaytambo station and transfer to the hotel in Cusco (approximately 100 minutes).
11:00 p.m. – Approximate arrival at the hotel in Cusco.

Main Services Included

Hotel: 4-star
Guides: English / Spanish
Tickets: Entrance fees included
Transportation: Shared service
Meals: Breakfast

All Services Included

Breakfast at the hotel.
Pick-up from the hotel to the Machu Picchu bus terminal.
Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu.
Guided tour in Machu Picchu.
Professional group guide.
Bus ride down to Aguas Calientes.
Luxury Vistadome Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo*.
Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
4-star hotel in Cusco.

*Subject to train availability.

Not Included

Lunch and dinner.
Services not specified in this package.

Return to Cusco on the Vistadome Train

Returning on the Vistadome Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo is an exciting experience that showcases majestic Andean landscapes and connects you with the history of the Inca ruins, offering comfort and unique panoramic views.

Includes: Train tickets
Note: Reference images only.

Day 2 Visual Highlights

Visit to the World Wonder: Machu Picchu + Return to Cusco

After hotel breakfast, pickup by agency-owned private transportation with highly trained drivers heads to Soraypampa. Guides experienced in the route accompany throughout. Check into geodomes with private baths, hot showers, and individual fireplaces. These setups provide warmth at high altitude. Enjoy a meal there before starting the hike to Humantay Lagoon. The path involves steady climbing, revealing glacial features. At the site, participate in an offering to Pachamama, a custom honoring the earth in Andean culture.

Return for a group buffet lunch with organic local elements. Afternoon free time might include alpaca interaction, where you feed and pet them, connecting to regional animal husbandry. Evening brings a campfire and light dinner. Share experiences under the stars; the domes allow clear night views. This setup from BIO ANDEAN EXPEDITIONS offers better comfort than standard tents in similar tours.

Tour Details Altitude: 4,200 masl Physical Condition: Demanding Duration: Full day

Itinerary Summary

4:30 am: Pickup and transfer to Soraypampa Camp (approximately 3 hours).
8:00 am: Check-in at Soraypampa Domes (approximately 30 minutes).
8:30 am: Breakfast in Soraypampa (approximately 60 minutes).
10:00 am: Hike to Humantay Lagoon (approximately 90 minutes).
11:30 am: Visit and offering to “Pachamama” (Mother Earth) at Humantay (approximately 90 minutes).
2:00 pm: Buffet lunch at the Camp (approximately 2 hours).
After 2:00 pm: Free time.
7:00 pm: Bonfire and light dinner (approximately 2 hours).

Main Services Included

Accommodation: Domes
Guides: English / Spanish
Tickets: Entrance fees
Transportation: Shared
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

All Services Included

Breakfast at the Domes.
Transportation Cusco – Soraypampa.
Entrance and installation in the Domes.
Hot shower service, private bathroom, and private fireplace.
Hike to Humantay Lagoon.
Group guide.
Lunch at the Domes.
Nighttime bonfire.
Light dinner.

Not Included

Horses for the trek.
Items not indicated in this package.
Additional activities at the site.

Alpaca Therapy Enjoy interacting, feeding, petting, and relaxing with our beautiful alpacas at our tourist complex in Soraypampa, at the foot of Salkantay Glacier. This unique experience connects you and lets you live like the ancient inhabitants of the region. You have to be here experiencing it!

Night of Stars Enjoy an unforgettable night in the acclimatized geodesic domes with views of the stars. An experience unlike anything you’ve seen before—live it with us.

Altitude: 3,900 masl.
Meal: Light dinner
Activity: Group bonfire
Guides: Available throughout

Day 3 Visual Highlights

Salkantay Trek - Path to Soraypampa and Humantay Lagoon

Start with breakfast in the domes. Then, hike to Salkantay Pass, the highest point. Guides provide detailed explanations on the trail’s significance in Inca times. Reach the top for a panoramic stop and another Pachamama offering. Descend to camp for a ceviche demonstration using fresh fish and citrus, plus pisco sour tasting. These use natural ingredients; international alternatives available at extra cost via reservations. Group lunch follows.

Afternoon return to Cusco by agency-owned private transportation. Arrive at your hotel for evening free. This day balances effort with cultural elements, unique to BIO ANDEAN EXPEDITIONS’ approach.

Tour Details

Altitude: 4,638 masl
Physical Condition: Demanding
Duration: Morning

Itinerary Summary

5:00 am: Breakfast in Soraypampa (approximately 60 minutes).
6:00 am: Hike to Salkantay (approximately 4 hours).
11:30 am: Panoramic visit and offering to “Pachamama” (Mother Earth) at Salkantay Pass (approximately 60 minutes).
2:30 pm: Ceviche show and lunch (approximately 90 minutes).
4:00 pm: Return to Cusco (approximately 4 hours).
7:00 pm: Arrival at the hotel in Cusco.

Main Services Included

Accommodation: 4-star hotel
Guides: English / Spanish
Tickets: Entrance fees
Transportation: Shared
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch

All Services Included

Breakfast at the Domes.
Hike to Salkantay Pass.
Private guide for the group.
Ceviche show at Soraypampa camp.
Pisco Sour tasting.
Group lunch included.
Return transportation to Cusco.
4-star hotel (Cusco).

Not Included

Dinner.
Items not indicated in this package.
Horses for the trek.
Accessories not specified in the program.

Ceviche and Pisco Sour Peruvian gastronomy is world-renowned, and now it’s your turn to experience unique flavors. Join our chefs in preparing ceviche and tasting Pisco Sour. Enjoy!

Day 4 Visual Highlights

Salkantay Trek - Salkantay Pass and Return to Cusco

Pickup early with box breakfast. Transfer to Cusipata for a full meal. Proceed to Llactapampa start point. Hike to Rainbow Mountain, where mineral layers create colors. Guides explain geological formations. Return for group lunch. Head back to Cusco, with time for souvenir shopping. Final transfer to airport. Recommend flights after 8:00 p.m.

Tour Details

Altitude: 5,200 masl
Physical Condition: Demanding
Duration: Morning

Itinerary Summary

4:30 am: Pickup and transfer to Cusipata (approximately 2 hours).
7:00 am: Breakfast in Cusipata (approximately 60 minutes).
8:00 am: Transfer towards Llactapampa.
9:00 am: Hike to the Rainbow Mountain (Vinincunca / 7 Colors Mountain) (approximately 3 hours).
12:30 pm: Return to Cusipata (approximately 60 minutes).
1:30 pm: Buffet lunch and return to Cusco (approximately 60 minutes).
4:30 pm: Arrival in Cusco and transfer to the hotel.

Main Services Included

Accommodation: 4-star hotel
Guides: English / Spanish
Tickets: Entrance fees
Transportation: Shared
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch

All Services Included

Breakfast in Cusipata.
Hotel pickup to start the tour.
Transportation to Rainbow Mountain.
Private guide for the group.
Group lunch included.
Return transportation to Cusco.
Time for souvenir shopping (approx. 5:00 pm until flight time).
Transfer from hotel to the airport (recommended flight departure at 8:00 pm or later).

Not Included

Dinner.
Flight Cusco – Lima.
Horses for the trek.
Accessories not specified in the program.
Additional activities at the site.

Day 5 Visual Highlights

Tour to the Rainbow Mountain and Farewell

What's Included & What's Not

Transparent clarity on all services, permits, amenities, and exclusions for your journey.

Fully Covered • All permits, bilingual guides, transports and logistics

Airport pickup in Cusco leading directly to the tour: This service ensures a smooth start, especially for early arrivals around 6:00 a.m., avoiding wait times and coordinating with the group’s schedule.
Sacred Valley tour: Covers multiple Inca sites with guided walks, providing context on historical uses and current preservation efforts.
Visits to Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo: Each stop includes entry tickets and explanations by expert guides on Andean architecture and agriculture.
Group guide: Available in English and Spanish, with knowledge of directing international travelers.
Buffet lunch in Urubamba: Features dishes with local organic ingredients like quinoa salads and potato varieties, prepared fresh.
Expedition train to Aguas Calientes: Basic class for the outbound trip, with options to choose company.
Station pickup and hotel transfer in Aguas Calientes: Quick and efficient to minimize fatigue.
Boutique hotel in Aguas Calientes: Comfortable rooms with essential amenities for overnight stay.
Hotel breakfast: Simple selections including fruits, breads, and hot drinks to energize for the day.
Transfer to Machu Picchu terminal and private transportation up: Ensures timely arrival for the tour start.
Machu Picchu entries: Tickets to access the full site, including all main areas.
Machu Picchu tour: Guided exploration with detailed insights into Inca constructions.
Private transportation down to Aguas Calientes: Safe descent after the visit.
Vistadome luxury train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo: Panoramic option for the return, enhancing the experience.
Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco hotel: Direct and comfortable.
4-star hotel in Cusco: Spacious accommodations with modern facilities.
Transfer to Soraypampa camp: Agency-owned private transportation for the trek start.
Dome entry and setup: Includes personal spaces with heating elements.
Hot shower service, private bath, own fireplace: Adds comfort in cold high-altitude nights.
Humantay Lagoon hike: Guided path with safety tips.
Group lunch in domes: Buffet style with regional foods.
Night campfire: Group gathering for warmth and interaction.
Light dinner: Easy meals to end the day.
Salkantay Pass hike: Expert-led ascent with breaks.
Ceviche show in Soraypampa camp: Interactive preparation session.
Pisco sour tasting: Sample of traditional drink.
Return transport to Cusco: Efficient end to the trek.
Breakfast in Cusipata: Fuel for the final hike.
Rainbow Mountain transport: To and from the site.
Rainbow Mountain entries: Access to the trail and viewpoint.
Group lunch: Final shared meal.
Time for souvenir purchases: Approximately until 5:00 p.m.
Hotel to airport transfer: Timed for late flights around 8:00 p.m.
Entries to all archaeological parks: Comprehensive coverage for all sites.

Exclusions • Personal extras, travel insurance, and optional upgrades

Dinners: Evening meals are left open for personal choices, allowing exploration of local eateries in Cusco or Aguas Calientes.
Lunches not specified: Some days require self-arranged meals to fit free time schedules.
Items not listed in the package: Any extra services or purchases outside the itinerary.
Horses for treks: Optional rental for those needing assistance on hikes like to Humantay or Rainbow Mountain.
Additional activities at sites: Extra options such as extended stays or special events.
Accessories not mentioned: Personal gear like walking sticks or rain ponchos.
Flight from Cusco to Lima: End-of-trip travel arrangements.
International gastronomy upgrades: Available but at added costs.

Pricing & Booking Tiers

Hotel Option	Group Size	Original Price (USD per person)	Promotional Price (USD per person)
4-Star	+4 PAX	1,000.00	800.00
4-Star	3 PAX	900.00	N/A
4-Star	2 PAX	950.00	N/A
4-Star	1 PAX	1,100.00	N/A
3-Star	+4 PAX	940.00	750.00
3-Star	3 PAX	850.00	N/A
3-Star	2 PAX	900.00	N/A
3-Star	1 PAX	1,050.00	N/A

For private service, add 20% to group prices; includes dedicated guide and transport. Main price: 250.00 USD deposit for 2025 open dates. Accommodations: Single for 1 pax, double/matrimonial for 2, triple for 3, two doubles for +4; shared dome for 4 in Soraypampa.

Travel Guide & FAQs

Passport or ID: Essential for all entries and transports; keep it in a waterproof case to protect from unexpected rain during hikes.
Comfortable walking shoes: Sturdy ones with good grip for uneven paths on treks and site visits, helping prevent slips at high altitudes.
Layered clothing: Warm jackets, hats, and gloves for cold mornings, plus lighter shirts for warmer afternoons, adapting to Andean weather changes.
Sunscreen and hat: High UV exposure at elevations requires protection; apply regularly to avoid burns during outdoor activities.
Water bottle: Reusable one to stay hydrated; fill at hotels or camps to reduce plastic use in natural areas.
Snacks: Energy bars or nuts for hikes; useful when meals are spaced out, especially on demanding days.
Camera or phone: For capturing sites; bring extra batteries as charging might be limited in remote spots like Soraypampa.
Medications: Altitude sickness pills if prone; consult a doctor before travel for personalized advice.
Rain gear: Lightweight poncho or jacket; sudden showers common in the region, keeping you dry on trails.
Backpack: Small day pack for essentials; easy to carry during walks without weighing you down.
Cash in soles: For tips, souvenirs, or optional horses; ATMs scarce in remote areas.
Insect repellent: For lower valley areas; prevents bites during evenings in Aguas Calientes.
Sunglasses: Polarized ones for glare from snow or water at lagoons and passes.
First aid kit: Basic items like bandages and pain relievers; supplements the guide’s supplies.
Travel insurance documents: Proof of coverage; important for any unexpected health or trip issues.

Weather Patterns

In Cusco and surrounding areas, expect dry conditions from May to October with daytime highs around 18 degrees Celsius and nights dropping to 0. Rainy season November to April brings showers, but mornings often clear. Statistics show 70% sunny days in dry months. Pack accordingly; I once got caught in a sudden downpour without a jacket and learned the hard way.

Local People and Culture

People in the Andes are welcoming, often greeting with a smile. Many speak Quechua alongside Spanish. Respect customs like not photographing without permission. Anecdote: During a market visit, a vendor shared weaving stories, making the interaction memorable. Engage politely for authentic exchanges.

Typical Food

Meals feature potatoes (over 3,000 varieties), corn, and quinoa. Try aji de gallina or lomo saltado. Organic ingredients common. For cheap eats, head to San Pedro Market in Cusco—soups under 5 soles. Avoid street food if sensitive; opt for established spots.

Free Places to Visit

Walk Plaza de Armas in Cusco for colonial views—no cost. Hike local trails near Soraypampa if time allows. Statistics: Over 50% of visitors enjoy free urban exploration. These add value without extra spending.

Budget Dining Options

In Aguas Calientes, small cafes offer set menus for 10-15 soles. In Cusco, try pollerias for roasted chicken. Compare: Market meals cheaper than hotels by 50%. Look for daily specials.

Item	Dry Season (May-Oct)	Wet Season (Nov-Apr)
Top Layer	Light jacket	Rain jacket
Bottom	Pants	Waterproof pants
Footwear	Hiking boots	Boots with grip
Accessories	Hat, gloves	Umbrella, poncho

Dressing Year-Round

Layering works best. Base with breathable shirts, add fleece for cold. Year-round, sturdy shoes essential. In summer, lighter fabrics; winter needs wool. Avoid heavy coats—mobility key for hikes.

Physical Effort and Health Needs

Treks demand moderate fitness; walks up to 4 hours at altitude. Heart rate can rise 20-30% higher. Health requirements: No major issues, but check for respiratory conditions. Train with cardio; statistics show 80% complete without problems if prepared. Start slow.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?

The dry season from May to September offers clearer skies and less rain, making hikes more enjoyable. During these months, temperatures range from 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, with cooler nights at higher altitudes. Travelers often find fewer crowds in shoulder months like May or September, allowing better photo opportunities at sites like Machu Picchu. Always check weather forecasts as conditions can vary.

How do I prepare for the altitude?

Start by arriving in Cusco a day early if possible to acclimatize. Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals initially. Coca tea, a local remedy, helps some people with symptoms like headaches. Light activity on the first day aids adjustment. If you have pre-existing conditions, consult a doctor; altitude ranges up to 5,200 meters on this route.

What type of accommodations are provided?

Hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes are 3 or 4-star with private rooms, Wi-Fi, and breakfast. Soraypampa uses geodomes with beds, heating, and private baths. These are shared for groups but comfortable. Upgrades available; contact reservations for details. Overall, they suit rest after daily activities.

Are the guides bilingual?

Yes, guides speak English and Spanish fluently, with experience handling international groups. They explain cultural aspects clearly, answering questions in your preferred language. This ensures everyone understands Inca history and safety tips during treks.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

Notify in advance; meals use local organic ingredients but can accommodate vegetarian or gluten-free needs. International options add costs. Chefs prepare fresh dishes, but for severe allergies, bring personal snacks. The team adjusts where possible.

How demanding are the hikes?

Treks like to Humantay and Rainbow Mountain involve 2-4 hours of walking on uneven terrain, rated demanding. Salkantay Pass requires steady effort at high altitude. Good fitness helps, but breaks are included. Horses optional for support.

What train options are there?

For Machu Picchu, choose PeruRail with classes like Expedition (basic) or Vistadome (panoramic), or Inca Rail for similar services. Differences include window size and amenities. Select based on preference; both ensure safe travel.

Is transportation safe?

Agency-owned private transportation uses vehicles maintained to high standards, driven by highly trained professionals. Routes are familiar, with safety checks. Representatives monitor progress for any issues.

What about group sizes?

Tours run with 1 to over 4 participants; smaller groups get more personalized attention. Larger ones foster social interaction. Pricing adjusts accordingly for privacy or sharing.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes, add days in Cusco for extra exploration. Contact BIO ANDEAN EXPEDITIONS reservations to arrange hotels or additional tours. This flexibility suits varied schedules.

What currency should I use?

US dollars accepted, but soles better for small purchases. Exchange at airports or banks. Cards work in cities, but cash essential in remote areas like Soraypampa.

Are there age restrictions?

Suitable for adults in good health; children over 12 with supervision. Elderly participants should assess physical demands. No strict limits, but consult for suitability.

What if weather affects the itinerary?

Guides adjust for rain or fog, prioritizing safety. Alternative paths or rescheduling possible. Travel insurance covers disruptions. Andean weather changes quickly, so flexibility helps.

How do I book optional activities?

Mention during reservation; horses for hikes or extra site time add costs. Team provides quotes. These enhance the experience without altering the core plan.

What health precautions are needed?

Vaccinations for hepatitis and typhoid recommended. Altitude medication if sensitive. Carry personal meds; guides have basics. Hydration and rest prevent issues on this route.

Packages

Complete Peru Package 12 Days / 11 Nights

Salkantay Treks

Complete Peru Package 12 Days / 11 Nights

Choquequirao Treks

Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain

Huchuy Qosqo Treks

Inca Trail Treks

Complete Peru Package 12 Days / 11 Nights

Manu Tours

Tambopata Tours

Iquitos Tours

Cusco Day Tours

Lake Titicaca Tours

Arequipa & Colca Canyon

Machu Picchu Tours

Complete Peru Package 12 Days / 11 Nights

The Best of Peru 5 Days / 4 Nights