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FAQs & Travel Information

The following information is essential and will help clarify any questions you might have regarding our services for both multi-day and Short Treks

1. Arrival to Cuzco

If you opt for a pick-up, one of our representatives will meet you at the Cuzco airport and take you to your hotel. Please send us your flight details at least 2 weeks prior to your trek. Once you arrive, you’ll find our representative outside the terminal gate or waiting room, holding a sign that says ‘Inca Vision Tours’ & “your name”.

Note. We highly recommend arriving in Cusco a couple of days in advance to allow sufficient time to acclimatize to the new environment and weather, helping to avoid altitude sickness.

2. Briefing Details

Your briefing is scheduled for the evening before your trek, at either 6:00 or 6:30 P.M., as indicated in your confirmation email. You can join us at our office (APV Jardines del Inca C-10, Cusco) or at your hotel. Alternatively, we can arrange a briefing via cellphone—please let us know your preference.

3. Can I Store My Luggage at Your Office? 

 Absolutely! You can store your luggage at our office or your hotel free of charge during your multi-day or short treks to Machu Picchu and other destinations. We recommend packing only the items you’ll need for your trek and leaving the rest securely stored.

4. How Can I Book My Tour or Trek with Inca Vision Tours?

Booking your tour or trek with us is simple! Just follow these steps:

  1. Select Your Tour
    Click the BOOK NOW button on your chosen tour page.
  2. Choose Your Departure Date
    Select your desired departure date from the calendar.
  3. Fill in Personal Information
    Provide the required details for each participant.
  4. Complete Your Down Payment
    Make a secure payment using a credit or debit card.
  5. Receive Your Confirmation
    Once your payment is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your itinerary and additional instructions to prepare for your trip.

If you encounter any issues while booking on our platform, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our sales team is ready to assist you step-by-step to ensure a smooth booking process.

5. How about my Down Payment and Payment method?

To confirm your reservation, you’ll need to make a down payment. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Inca Trail hikes (2, 4, or 5 days): $ 200 USD per person
  • Alternative Treks (non-Inca Trail treks): $ 200 USD per person
  • Day tours and Day hikes:  Deposit ranges from $ 25 USD to $ 200 USD per person
  • For other package tours the down payment is from $ 200 USD to $ 500 USD per person

Important Note: The deposit can be made via We Travel, Western Union or MoneyGram. If you rent camping and hiking gear, upgrade tours or receive a discount of the total price our sales team will email you the updated remaining balance payable at our Cusco office.

Pay via We Travel

Please note that We Travel charges a fee ranging from 1.5% to 3.9 % (depending on the type of currency used) for online deposits. For payment made via bank transfer a 2% fee will be applied which the client is responsible for.  The fee is for the use of We travel’s secure payment gateway. Please, notify incavisiontours@gmail.com  or info@incavisiontour.com after payment has made through, We Travel.

Pay via Western Union

Please note that Western Union charges a variable fee for online deposits, depending on your nationality and location.

Western union payments should be addressed to the following receiver:

  • Full Name: Jaime Cusi Huaman
  • Address: APV. Jardines Del Inca C-10, Cusco – Perú

Pay via MoneyGram

Please note that MoneyGram charges a variable fee for online deposits, depending on your nationality and location.

MoneyGram payments should be addressed to the following receiver:

  • Full Name: Jaime Cusi Huaman
  • Address: APV. Jardines Del Inca C-10, Cusco – Perú

Please remember to send us the tracking code (MTCN) in order to pick up the deposit and confirm your booking. Once your payment is made via Western Union or MoneyGram, please notify ours sales team.

In the event you need to cancel your trip, cancellation fees will be assessed as outlined in our cancellation policy. If canceling, you may not transfer your deposit to another person’s trek/tour.  See Inca Vision Tours ‘Terms and Cancellation Policy

5.What about the Remaining Balance?

The remaining balance for your tour must be paid in Cusco at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure. We accept cash, Credit card or debit card via We Travel.

Please note that payments made by credit card, debit card or We Travel will incur a fee from 1.5 to 3.9 % depending on the type of currency used for online deposits.

If you are unable to arrive in Cusco 48 hours prior to your tour, please contact our sales team to arrange alternative payment options.

7. How do I qualify for the Student Discount?

 

  • To qualify for the student discount, one must be 25 years old or less at the time of entering Machu Picchu and you must submit a valid university ID with your booking. The ID must include your name, photo, and expiration date. Cards without an expiration date will not be accepted. Please bring the original student ID with you on the tour to pass the checkpoint.
  • All students must provide a copy of their passport at the time of booking to receive the student discount. Email us a copy at: incavisiontours@gmail.com
Valid Card Data
  • All travelers under 17 will have special discount as well.

Important Note: Peruvian regulations require a valid physical student ID for student discounts on Inca Trail permits. At the checkpoint (Km 82, Km 104 & Machu Picchu), you must present your student card, or access will be denied. Ensure your ID meets Peru’s requirements before planning your trip as a student.

8.What Circuit Is Included in Your Tour Leading to Machu Picchu?

If you do the Inca Trail 4-Day Hike or the 2-Day Inca Trail Hike, your itinerary includes:

  1. Circuit 1 – Upper Platform: Ideal for capturing the iconic postcard picture of Machu Picchu.
  2. Circuit 3 – Middle and Lower Parts: A walking tour through the Inca city, allowing you to explore its fascinating structures up close.

With this assigned itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to experience Machu Picchu twice, from breathtaking viewpoints and during an immersive walking tour.

 

If you choose Alternative Treks or Day Tours that lead to Machu Picchu but do not include the Inca Trail, your itinerary will feature one of the following circuits, depending on availability:

  • Circuit 2 or Circuit 3

These circuits offer unique perspectives of Machu Picchu, ensuring a memorable visit.

May I change the date after the permits have been purchased?

Unfortunately, changes to the date or personal information are not allowed once permits have been issued and entrance tickets purchased, unless you cover the additional costs equivalent to the total cost of the tickets. This policy is strictly enforced by the Peruvian government.

10. Do I Need My Original Passport for Multi-Day or Short Treks?

Yes, you must bring your original passport, which should be the same one used to book your tours. Your passport will be checked at the Machu Picchu entrance, during hotel check-ins, and when boarding the train. If renewing your passport, send us a copy of your old one to secure permits, and update us with your new passport once received.

11. What do I need to know about Huayna Picchu | Machu Picchu Mountain?

Huayna Picchu, the mountain overlooking Machu Picchu, is a 45-minute hike to the top, located next to the Machu Picchu Inca city. The descent can be steep, so it may not be suitable for those afraid of heights. This hike can be done after your Machu Picchu tour.

Machu Picchu Mountain requires a 3-hour round-trip hike. Due to its popularity, reservations should be made at least one month in advance. Please note that weather conditions are beyond our control.

The Peruvian Government has strict limited capacity of people allowed on the Huayna Picchu Mountain for 2022 (permits are available only for 200 people per day, which are split into four groups).

First Group of 50. Available from 7:00 to 8:00 A.M

Second Group of 50. Available from 8:00 to 9:00 A.M

Third group of 50. Available from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M

Fourth Group of 50. Available from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M

Therefore, we recommend that you reserve your space far in advance as possible.

 

12. What Are the Differences Between Easy, Moderate, and Challenging Trekking?

  • Easy Treks: Suitable for beginners or those seeking a less physically demanding experience. These treks typically involve up to 6 hours of walking per day. Examples: Short Inca Trail (2 days), Rainbow Mountains, Huamantay Lake Hike.
  • Moderate Treks: For trekkers with prior hiking experience. These treks last 1-3 days and reach altitudes of 2,700m to 4,000m. Examples: Huchuy Qosqo Trek, Short Inca Trail, Rainbow Mountain Treks.
  • Semi-Challenging Treks: Recommended for those with experience in easy and moderate treks. These areas include the Lares Trek, Inca Quarry Trek, and Huarocondo Trek.
  • Challenging Treks: For experienced trekkers in excellent physical condition. These treks involve 8-10 hours of walking per day, high-altitude passes, and rugged terrain. Examples: Ausangate 5-day, Choquequirao to Machu Picchu, Salkantay 5-day, Inca Trail 4-day.

13. What is the weather like?

The weather is very unpredictable and it’s difficult to foresee. We recommend to always dress in layers as it is easier to adjust to the different climates.  Remember, we have only two official seasons in Cuzco, rainy season from November to April and dry season from May to October.

Tabla de Temperaturas
JFMAMJJASOND
Av. Max Temp °C202121222121212122222322
Av. Max Temp °F687070727070707072727372
Av. Min Temp °C5763-5-4-114667
Av. Min Temp °F454545402528303440434345

14. How High Is the Elevation in the Mountains I Will Hike?

Altitude sickness is a common concern for those hiking in Peru, particularly around Cusco. The higher you go, the less oxygen there is in the air, making it harder for your body to get enough oxygen. We recommend spending at least two days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting your trek to help acclimatize. Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headaches, tiredness, nausea, dizziness, and trouble sleeping. Be sure to consult with your doctor or contact Inca Vision for assistance in preparing for your trek. The elevation varies depending on the trek, so please review the specific details for each tour or trek

15. How Many People Are There Per Group?

The maximum group size is 10 people, though most of our groups range between 2-8 participants. Inca Vision specializes in both shared and private groups, ensuring a personalized experience for all trekkers.

16. Camping Tents Sharing

All camping tents are twin-size or 4-man tents by default.

  • Couples/Partners: When booking for multiple people, you’ll be grouped in pairs in the same tent unless otherwise requested. If the group has an odd number (e.g., 3, 5, 7), the remaining traveler will share with another of the same gender.
  • Single Travelers: Single travelers will share a double tent with another passenger of the same gender, at no extra charge. If you prefer a private tent, there’s an additional fee of $30 USD. Requests made in advance help our logistics team arrange suitable gear for you, ensuring a comfortable experience.

17. What do I need to know about hotel?

Hotel: If you are doing overnight tours or treks that lead to Machu Picchu, you will be provided accommodation in a 3 star ★★★ hotel (Intipunku hotel or similar) in Aguas Calientes. For upgrades or cancellation, please enter your request in the special request box above. If you are booking a Peru Package Tour for 5 or more days, please contact our sales team.
Room Types: Matrimonial (1 bed for 2 people); Double (2 single beds), Single (1 bed for 1 person).  If you wish to add extra beds, please specify in the special request box above.

18. Are We Going to Be Picked Up and Dropped Off at My Accommodation Before and After the Trek or Tour?

Absolutely! Hotel pick-ups and drop-offs are included with all of our packages. If you’ve booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley, we will drop you off there after the trek or tour.

19. What Time Does the Train Depart from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu)?

For tours and treks involving overnight camping, you will need a small day pack (25 liters), which you will carry with you throughout the trek or tour.

As for the duffle bag, Inca Vision will provide one on the day of your hike. However, you must pack only 7 to 7.5 kg of weight inside your duffle bag. This is because the duffle bags will be carried by porters, in accordance with Peruvian regulations. To avoid inconvenience, please pack only essential gear for your trek.

Note: If you are doing only day hikes or day tours by car, you will still need to bring a small day pack for your essential gear.

20. How Big Should My Top Backpack Be, and What About Duffle Bags? Do I Have to Bring One from My Country?

In the event of strikes or natural disasters in Peru, Inca Vision will make every effort to operate your tour, even arranging for departures the night before your scheduled start date. However, if roads are blocked or train services are canceled, tours may need to be canceled.

In such cases, Inca Vision will coordinate with you to find a solution. Your safety is our top priority, and we will do everything possible to assist you.

21. What Happens if I Am Unable to Finish the Multi-Day or Short Treks I Have Chosen?

If you’re unable to complete the trek due to health issues or accident reasons, Inca Vision staff will assist you in reaching the nearest town for medical help. Oxygen is available for respiratory issues. In severe cases, it’s recommended to return to Cusco, and you’ll cover your own expenses (travel insurance is required).

There are no refunds if you can’t finish the trek, but Inca Vision may provide car transportation back to places like Ollantaytambo, Tinqui, Cachora, Sacred Valley, or Cusco. If you recover quickly, you may continue your journey to Machu Picchu or another destination at your own cost.

22. What Will Happen if Local Strikes or Natural Disasters Interrupt My Scheduled Tour or Trek?

In the event of strikes or natural disasters in Peru, Inca Vision will make every effort to operate your tour, even arranging for departures the night before your scheduled start date. However, if roads are blocked or train services are canceled, tours may need to be canceled.

In such cases, Inca Vision will coordinate with you to find a solution. Your safety is our top priority, and we will do everything possible to assist you.

23. Tipping

Tipping is not compulsory but is appreciated if you’re satisfied with the services. It is a customary practice in Peru’s tourism industry and holds great significance for the staff who assist you during the trek. Tipping encourages excellent service and is common across Inca Vision destinations. You can tip based on the quality and length of your trip, but it should only be given for exceptional service.

  • Porters: Each porter expects to receive a tip between 60 to 90 soles from the entire group (on the Inca Trail hikes and alternative treks).
  • Horsemen: Each horseman expects to receive a tip between 60 to 90 soles from the entire group (on alternative treks).
  • Chef: The chef expects to receive a tip between 150 to 300 soles from the entire group (on the Inca Trail hikes and alternative treks).
  • Guide: A personal tip is expected from each customer as a sign of appreciation.

24. What Time Will I Have to Wake Up Before and During My Tour?

The wake-up time varies depending on the type and length of your tour:

  • For Inca Trail Hikes (4-day, 2-day) and Day Hikes: You will need to wake up early, usually between 3 AM and 6 AM, as these tours require early starts for trekking.
  • For Day Tours by Car or Train: You will wake up later, as these tours typically have a more relaxed schedule.

25. What types of meals will be served during my tours?

If meals are included in your tour, you will experience traditional Peruvian cuisine in our selected restaurants or our trained cook, who receive annual training ensure you enjoy delicious meals made with the seasonal local ingredients.

Dietary Options: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary options are available upon request. Please let us know your preferences at the time of booking to ensure the best experience.