We offer several trips to Peru, with different itineraries. However, we are often asked frequent questions regarding what to prepare. From accommodations to tipping Guides, you can find the answers here!
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Accommodations
For the Inca Trail trekking itinerary, what essential camping equipment is included?
For the Inca Trail trekking itinerary, what essential camping equipment is included?
Tents, sleeping pads, and duffle bags are included. You have the option of renting sleeping bags or trekking poles upon booking, or can bring your own. You should also plan on bringing your own pillow if one is desired.
Duffel bags are provided by the local Operator, so you don't have to bring your own. These bags will be carried by porters during the trek and have a weight limit of 13 lbs per Traveler.
What are the specifications of the optional sleeping bags?
What are the specifications of the optional sleeping bags?
Below is the technical information for the optional sleeping bags available for rent from the local operator. Various options are offered to suit different seasons.
Sawtooth Sleeping Bag Long: Temperature range: Comfort: -3°C (26.6°F) / Limit: -9°C (15.8°F) / Extreme: -28°C (-18.4°F)
Explorer Down-Doite Sleeping Bag: Temperature range: Comfort: 3°C (37.4°F) / Limit: -1°C (30.2°F) / Extreme: -15°C (5°F)
Each sleeping bag weighs ~1.5 kg (3.3 lbs)
Can I bring my own sleeping bag?
Can I bring my own sleeping bag?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own sleeping bag, but it must not exceed 3.6 kg (7.9 lbs). For general reference, sleeping bags should have a comfort rating between -3°C (26.6°F) and 3°C (37.4°F). Please contact our Customer Support Team to let us know if you plan to bring your own.
If we don’t hear from you, a sleeping bag will automatically be provided for you at no additional cost, along with optional trekking poles (when applicable).
Does the Inca Trail trekking itinerary include portable toilets?
Does the Inca Trail trekking itinerary include portable toilets?
Yes, all of our treks include portable toilets with toilet paper.
Activities
Are hiking boots needed?
Are hiking boots needed?
It’s best to bring hiking boots, as the trails are often uneven and can become quite muddy if it rains. While some parts of the trek are flat, others involve uphill and downhill sections, so we recommend boots that provide ankle support.
Are trekking poles allowed at Machu Picchu?
Are trekking poles allowed at Machu Picchu?
Trekking poles are no longer permitted at Machu Picchu, including those with rounded caps. However, if you have a medical condition that requires the use of a trekking pole, you can bring a doctor’s note explaining your need. This note can be presented to the local authorities when you arrive at Machu Picchu.
If approved by the local authorities, you’re welcome to bring your own trekking pole or rent one through the local operator for approximately $20–$25 USD.
Are drones allowed at Machu Picchu?
Are drones allowed at Machu Picchu?
Drones are not allowed at Machu Picchu. This policy is set by the local authorities.
Can Travelers take a mule if they get tired?
Can Travelers take a mule if they get tired?
For all treks, one horse is included for emergencies only. This option is only available if you’re unable to continue hiking. Typically most Travelers have preferred alternative transportation rather than continuing the trek on horseback.
Please note that in emergencies you can ride the horse to the campsite at Llaqtapata, but beyond that point, riding is prohibited by the Ministry of Culture.
Currency
How much should I tip my Guide, and in what currency?
How much should I tip my Guide, and in what currency?
Tips for Guides, drivers, and restaurant staff are not included in your trip costs. While tipping is not mandatory, it is a meaningful way to show appreciation and provides supplemental income for local teams. If they have enhanced your experience, consider rewarding their efforts with a tip. Below are tipping suggestions:
For Guides, it is recommended to tip $2-4 USD per person/per day
For Drivers, it is recommended to tip $1-2 USD per person/per day
At restaurants, it is recommended to tip 10-15% of the total bill
For Hotel staff who assist with luggage, it is recommended to tip $1-2 USD per bag
For Hotel housekeeping staff, it is recommended to tip $1-2 USD per person/per day
Tips can be given in either Peruvian Sol or US dollars.
How much money should I prepare?
How much money should I prepare?
When it comes to money matters on the trip, every Traveler is a little different. You know your spending habits better than anyone, so please budget a sensible amount for things like drinks, shopping, optional activities, tipping and laundry. It’s always better to bring a little more than you think you’ll need.
The recommended amounts are listed in USD for the relatability of universal Travelers, however local currency may be needed.
It is recommended to have access to $300-400 USD for emergencies or additional unexpected expenses
It is recommended to budget between $25-50 USD per day for meals that are not included
See the answer above for tipping guidelines
If needed, ATMs are widely available in major towns across Peru. Your Guide can assist with helping you find an ATM during the trip.
Credit cards are generally accepted in tourist shops and restaurants. Visa and Mastercard are generally more widely accepted over American Express, Diners, etc. Please check with your banking provider to ensure they are aware of your travel plans before your departure.
Guides
How many Guides will be assigned to our trip?
How many Guides will be assigned to our trip?
One primary Guide will be assigned to your group for the entire duration of the trip. Depending on the activity, transportation logistics, or legal requirements, additional Guides may be needed. Please refer to the specific guidelines below:
Hiking Through Ruins Itinerary
Full Day Sacred Valley (Pisac Market & Archaeological Site, Local Community, Ollantaytambo, Maras, Moray, Local Community of Chinchero): One primary Guide for up to 19 Travelers. For groups of 20 or more, an additional Guide will be assigned, as the group will need to be split into two buses to enter the local community.
Machu Picchu: One primary Guide for up to 16 travelers. For groups of 17 or more, an additional Guide will be assigned to comply with local law requirements.
Full Day Waqrapukara: An additional Guide will be required for every 8 Travelers.
Full Day Palcoyo: An additional Guide will be required for every 8 Travelers.
Machu Picchu Adventure
Hiking Through Cusco Ruins: One primary Guide will be sufficient—no additional Guide is required.
Cusco Downtown Walking Tour: One primary Guide will be sufficient—no additional Guide is required.
Full Day Sacred Valley (Pisac Market & Archaeological Site, Local Community, Ollantaytambo, Maras, Moray, Local Community of Chinchero): One primary Guide for up to 19 Travelers. For groups of 20 or more, an additional Guide will be assigned, as the group will need to be split into two buses to access the local community.
Machu Picchu: One primary Guide for up to 16 Travelers. For groups of 17 or more, an additional Guide will be assigned to comply with local regulations.
Cooking Class: A professional chef will be assigned to lead the group.
Multi-Day Trek to Machu Picchu
Hiking Through Cusco Ruins: One primary Guide will be sufficient—no additional guide is required.
Cusco Downtown Walking Tour: One primary Guide will be sufficient—no additional guide is required.
Salkantay Trek: One primary Guide for up to 5 Travelers. For groups of 6 to 16 Travelers, an additional Guide will be assigned. For groups of 17 or more, two additional Guides will be assigned.
Luggage
Are there are luggage restrictions when visiting Machu Picchu?
Are there are luggage restrictions when visiting Machu Picchu?
When visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll need to leave your main luggage at your hotel in Ollantaytambo. For your journey to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, please pack only a small carry-on or overnight bag (such as a backpack, handbag, or duffel bag). The weight of your bag should not exceed 8kg (17 lbs), and the total dimensions should be no more than 118 linear cm / 46 linear inches (height + length + width).
This applies whether you’re planning a day trip or an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes. Rest assured, your hotel in Ollantaytambo will securely store your main luggage until your return. Be sure to pack all the essentials for your Machu Picchu adventure in your smaller bag!
How does carrying luggage work on the Inca Trail trekking itinerary?
How does carrying luggage work on the Inca Trail trekking itinerary?
You’ll receive your duffel bag during the briefing with your assigned Guide the evening before you begin the trek. Any suitcases you bring from home will stay securely stored at your first hotel, so you’ll only need to pack essential items in your duffel bag for the trek.
During the trek, horses and mules will transport your duffel bags between campsites, so you won’t have to carry them along the trail. However, since your duffel bag will travel ahead of the group, you won’t have access to it until you arrive at the next campsite.
To ensure you have everything you need during the day, it’s highly recommended that you bring a small backpack for your essentials. Keep in mind that you’ll be responsible for carrying your own backpack, as no one will be available to assist with it.
Meals
Is the water safe for me to drink?
Is the water safe for me to drink?
You should avoid using tap water, even for brushing your teeth, whenever possible. Instead, stick to treated or bottled water, which will be readily available at all lodging accommodations.
When can water bottles be refilled when on the trek?
When can water bottles be refilled when on the trek?
You can refill your water bottles at three specific times during the day: at breakfast, at lunch, and when you arrive at the campsite.
How much water should I plan to carry?
How much water should I plan to carry?
The amount of water you should carry in your daypack depends on how much you typically drink. We usually recommend bringing a 1 or 1.5-liter bottle. Keep in mind that while you can bring larger bottles, they will add extra weight to your daypack, as you'll need to carry them.
Will there be snacks provided on the trek?
Will there be snacks provided on the trek?
Meals on the trek are hearty and packed with plenty of carbohydrates to keep you energized. While snacks are provided, you’re welcome to bring your own if you’d like.
Passport
Why is my passport information required ahead of time?
Why is my passport information required ahead of time?
For all trips to Machu Picchu, our local operator requires passport information at least 60 days before the trip to secure tickets and permits. To ensure a smooth process, TrovaTrip reaches out to confirmed Travelers well in advance to collect this information, allowing ample time for ticket arrangements.
Transfers
What type of transfer vehicle is used during the trip?
What type of transfer vehicle is used during the trip?
A private van or shuttle bus.
What does public transportation look like?
What does public transportation look like?
Taxis and buses are readily available in both Lima and Cusco, but the best way to explore Cusco is on foot!
Is Uber or Lyft available?
Is Uber or Lyft available?
Uber is available in Lima.
Please refer to the Trip Prep guide here for additional information about Peru.