2 DAYS SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

INCLUDED:

• Transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the train station
• Train from Ollantaytambo to “Km 104”
• Train back: Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
• Transport back from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
• Tourist bus for Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes ( one way)
• Entrance ticket to Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
• Professional tour guide
• 1 snack, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast
• Confortable hotel  in Aguas Calientes
• First aid kit and oxygen bottle

 NOT INCLUDED:

• Last lunch in Aguas Calientes
• First day breakfast
• Huaynapichcu ticket ( $80 usd)
• Bus Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu round trip (24 USD)
• Extras not listed in the itinerary

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Responses to most FAQs related to the “Inca Trail” walk with Eco Path Trek.

A.- BEFORE YOU GO

B.- IN THE TREK

C.- RESERVATIONS AND RESERVATIONS

BEFORE THE TREK.-

• Where is the pick up for our walks?

Pick up from your hotel at 3:30 am, please provide clear contact information of your place of residence at check-in at the Cusco office. Your guides will provide details the night before your departure.

• Where to pay the remaining amount?

We assume most people try to get to Cusco 2-3 days before the trek to give enough time for acclimatization. Once you have settled in and rested you should come to the Cusco office to see and confirm the information we have pertinent to your walk, personal needs and sign the conditions (even if you have already paid in full.) There are occasions in Local festivities or discomfort may require last minute changes to departure times or some additional information and that is why we have a brief briefing at 19:00 in the evening before your trip when you finish your guides and other people from the Group, to receive any rental equipment.

• Where can I store my luggage while I’m on the Inca Trail?

In the hike / tour, you just have to take with you the things you really want / need and leave the rest of your things with us. Eco Path Trek offers free luggage storage for all our guests. If you have luggage, you should leave it at the office the day before, and after your tour you can pick it up, or leave it at your hotel, since all the accommodations have the free Locker service.

• What should I pack?

The most important things, for a day of trekking like:

• 1 trekking pants
• small backpack
• Sun cream
• Sunglasses
• Has ample
• Botle of water
• appetizers
• walking shoes
• raincoat
• Original passport
• Am I going to need any extra money?

Yes, so you can buy: for example, a bottle of water / drinks, hot springs in Aguas Calientes (10 soles), souvenirs, snacks in Machu Picchu, etc. Bring at least 400 soles emergency money.

• How many people will be in my group?

We require a minimum of 2 people for our walks, dates indicated in the availability of the web, are open groups in which you are invited to join, is usually 10-12. We can have up to 8 hikers with a guide and a 9 -16 hikers sheet we have 2 licensed trekking guides.

During the low season groups are more likely to be small and during peak season groups will probably be large.

The Ministry of Culture has a rule in place made limited the amount of passengers by 2 guides for 16 people. If we are receiving a large number of requests for a date and there is silence a good number of permissions available, we can easily open a second group for the same date.

DURING THE TREK.-

• I am not very experienced hiker in? What if I can not keep up? How difficult is the Inca Trail?

Most people have that concern, but they do not care. Only in extremely rare circumstances does a passenger need to return before. Just remember what made you are able to go at a speed made it comfortable for you. Take your time, your own pace, and enjoy.

The Inca Trail is considered a moderate hike. It is not a technical hike but there are plenty of Inca treads, up and down, and altitude can affect some individuals by value. It is recommended to use a trekking poles and have them in the early evening before the trek.

• Are trekking poles really necessary?

For this trek more than any of the walks, we recommend the use of trekking poles, especially for those passengers with known problems of the knee. There are several times during the tour the need for its use, whether ascending a mountain or walking through immense sets of ladder of the Inca. It will help you with your balance and reduce the impact on your knees. Park rangers only allow trekking poles with rubber tips, because if it is metal it damages the road. You can purchase rubber tips for metal tips from any local store in Cusco.

• Is altitude sickness common? And how high is the Inca Trail?

It is impossible to predict that they will be affected by altitude. Its ability to adapt to high altitude is deterministic undermined by its genetic makeup and has little to do with fitness or health. Most people will have no problem as long as they take the time to acclimate properly. A full day in Cusco (3399m), taking very easy and drinking lots of water is enough for some people, but if you can arrange to have a minimum of 2-3 days in case of any travel disruption, well then this is what We recommend it as there is so much to do here !. The highest point is reached during an excursion of the Inca Trail is 4200 m / 13818 feet. You will sleep at 3340m / 10988 feet for two nights.

• What if I am not able to finish the trek?

On the stage you can not end the health problems due to the Trek, Eco Path trek will do everything possible to get to the nearest town and get help or transportation to help. If the problem is due to the airway or altitude, we carry an oxygen tank on the walk which will have access.

• Can ECO PATH TREK meet my dietary needs? What kind of food will there be?

Not to worry, ECO PATH TREK is able to accommodate many types of dietary needs on request at the time of booking. If you are a vegetarian, or can not eat gluten or have allergies to certain foods, it will not be a problem.

• I’m going to have to carry the water?

We recommend that you buy a 1.5 – 2 liter bottle of water to take with you on the first day. Every night during the walk, we will boil the water so that you can refill the same bottle every morning before you leave. If you are planning to drink from any streams or waterfalls, it is highly advisable to bring water purifying tablets or filters.

• Are there any bathrooms along the way?

Along the trail there are several places with toilet facilities. Please bring a roll of toilet paper. As for another type of trash going, please take your own trash to each camp. Do not leave a trace or throw away the trash.

• Is there a possibility to cancel my hike?

There is very little chance of a cancellation of a walk. Even in extreme climatic conditions or even in case of a strike there will be no cancellation. The Ministry of Culture or ECO PATH TREK can not change the date of a walk if there is a general strike. We will make every effort to ensure that you get to the beginning of the trail to start the walk by the date of the permit, on some dates if there is a strike will be communicated by the mail, where you will be informed the time and date of departure, Sometimes you must go a day earlier to prevent the road from being blocked.

In the event that a passenger decides to cancel the trip for any reason, he will lose his trip; You would only have the option of going to Machu Picchu, on your own and do not lose your return train ticket, entrance to machu picchu.

• Is the Inca trail good during the rainy season? It is safe?

The trail is perfectly safe during the rainy season. In fact, some people like to go during the rainy season because there are fewer tourists. If you are one that does not mind the rain then it says’ A for it! “You’ll just have to bring good rain gear and water boots.

• What kind of weather can I expect on the trip? The temperatures?

During the “rainy season” (Dec 1 – May 1), you could have some rain at any time, but you can not expect it to rain every day. Often in December and January you may only get some continuous light rains or you could be fine and then a splendid afternoon, but in reality you could have days of good weather. At the same station, therefore, it will be noticeably hotter at night. The times of the day will get up to about 25 C degrees Celsius.

On the other hand, during the “dry season” (June – Dec) the days seem surprisingly like spring, with a bright and sunny sky, but it will be much colder at night. During the day you can expect it to be somewhere in the range of 20 C to 30 C degrees Celsius and at night it will be as low as 0 to -5 degrees Celsius.

It is always better to dress in layers at any time of the year, really. As you walk, change the poles, since if you walk with the garment wet, it is dangerous since it could catch a flu.

• How many hikers are there per group?

We work with a group size of 2 to 8 people, for which it is assigned: 01 guide.

If the group is 8 to more, you will have two guides

• What is the standard procedure when it comes to tips?

The tips for the trekking staff mentioned above are not included in the price of the trek. Gratuities are optional but not mandatory.

Tips for the guide: The guide will accompany the group along the tour including Machupicchu. We recommend you tip the guide after the tour in Machu Picchu, a reasonable amount is 80 usd.

• Will I be able to witness the sunrise at Machu Picchu?

This depends on the station that is going to visit the citadel, for example in the rainy season it is almost impossible to appreciate a sunrise, since machu picchu always dawns cloudy.

In the dry season, if there is the opportunity to see an impressive sunrise in Machu Picchu.

• Will I be able to climb the Huayna Picchu?

If you are interested in the mountain Huayna Picchu in your visit to Machu Picchu, it is mandatory to have a special permit which is reserved, at least 6 months in advance of your visit to Peru. This income has an additional cost of $ 80 usd.

• At what time will I be back in Cusco?

You will arrive to the city of Cusco at 7:30 pm, please note that the total time of return of hot waters to Cusco is approximately 3 hours.

If you want to fly the same day of your return to Lima, the last flight leaves Cusco at 19:30 pm.

• Can you explain the train service a bit more?

The frequent travel times of your trains to go will be  at 6:40 am, and to return there are options of  14:30pm, 16:15 pm, 19:00 pm. We will tell you the availability at your reservation time.

All the services provided are with the company Inca Rail, which leaves the station of Ollantaytambo and return to it.

RESERVATION

• What are the advantages of doing a private walk?

One of the main reasons why the private option is requested afterwards is because there is no need to worry about what data we have set for the departures or if our exits have enough space. Their only concern is whether or not there are permits available. You can choose any date you want if the permissions are available.

In addition to the comfort and flexibility in booking, the private option provides a more personal travel experience for your group. We’ll pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. The guide will focus all your energy and attention on your group. It is a truly wonderful experience to go looking for an amazing trip with only your friends and loved ones. Check out Eco Path Trek staff to organize your own private trip.

• Student discount? How can you use it to get a discount?

A.- For the students of the school: With the passport or national ID – original ones, from 8 to 17 years old

B.- For the students of the University:With the original student ID gives from the university in PVC material and it must have the next requirements: university information, personal student information, student picture, and expiration date valid only for one year, it year must coincide with the year that student visit Machu Picchu, the discount until 25 years old.

• Is it possible to change the dates after the initial reservation?

You can only make the change of dates, if you have not yet bought the permits for the Inca trail, but if everything is already organized it is very unlikely to change the date of travel, otherwise you may lose your reservation.

• What if I do not have my passport at this time?

The Ministry of Culture requires a valid passport issued, the best case is to organize your new passport in advance if you did is the case. There is the possibility, due to the limits of the spaces on the requested date of reservation with your old passport number, and change it when you have the new passport. So we recommend bringing both documents.

• Can I pay for the full tour in advance?

Generally, we only charge the deposit of your Inca Trail to confirm your reservation. This deposit and full details on the booking form are used as a guarantee for income and other excursions. The balance is payable upon arrival in Cusco in cash. If you choose to pay by credit card you need to pay 10% commission. The prices of the tours are cash payment.

WHAT TO BRING:

• Original passport
• For students: Original ISIC card
• Hiking Shoes
• Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
• Warm jacket
• Hat and Gloves
• 2 t-shirts
• 1 pants for hiking
• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Toiletries / toilet paper
• Personal medication if in case
• Camera and batteries
• Flashlight
• Money in cash  (400 Peruvian nuevos soles)

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF ECO PATH TREK

Travel in Peru: Inca Trail Hiker  operates in regions where standards of accommodation, transport and services might not be those you would normally expect. However we strive, with all due care and skill, to provide the best services for our tourists. Travelling in Peru requires flexibility, patience, broad-mindedness, good humour and understanding that changes may be made without notice due to circumstances beyond our control (Force Majeure – see below). By booking any of our tours you agree to Inca Trail Hiker  making necessary changes without liability.

FORCE MAJEURE: This is any event that  Inca Trail Hiker  could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. This covers events such as war or threat, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, disease, disaster or adverse weather conditions, fire or all similar events beyond our control. In this case, Inca Trail Hiker  will not accept liability and reserves the right to change, postpone or even cancel the trip (this is the last option of course!).

Increments in Case of Protests, Strikes (FORCE MAJEURE): In the event of a protest / strike, which is not uncommon in Cusco, it may be necessary to leave a day or even 2 days earlier than scheduled so that we are able to comply with other services. In this case, an increment will be charged to cover costs incurred.

Risks: By booking any of our adventure trips (Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Salkantay, Ausangate, Choquekirao, Lares, Vilcabamba trek etc.) you assume the risks associated with them. For these Inca Trail Hiker  accepts no responsibility.

Travel Insurance: We strongly advise you to take out travel insurance that covers accidents, medical expenses and emergency repatriation, including rescue and air ambulance. We also recommend that it covers cancellations and loss of luggage. Please forward a copy/ company name and policy number by email or bring the information when you come to our office.

Holiday or Election Increments: An increment of *$35 per person is applicable for all treks (regardless of group / private option / size of group) leaving during these holidays: Christmas (Dec 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 25th) New Year (Dec 29th, 30th, 31st, Jan 1st).

An increment is also applicable in order to leave during election days (people are fined in Peru if they do not vote).

We use the increments to pay staff a bonus for leaving on their holiday or it is used to pay the fines.

Sending your main Departure date and back up date: By providing us with a main date and a back up date for your trek (classic Inca Trail, Lares, Salkantay, etc) you automatically authorize Inca Trail Hiker to use either of these dates for your reservation. Inca Trail Hiker within the next 48 hours (after you have sent us your booking form and confirm deposit was made) will send you an electronic receipt confirming your trek has been officially booked and also to confirm the exact departure date of your trek.

Sending your Personal Details for Booking: Your passport number and other information must be valid. Please advise if you change your passport number after booking the tour (especially for booking the classic Inca Trail as if we do not make a change in your official details, you may not be permitted to do the trek). Please Note changing passports numbers requires an extra fee (we are able to change passports numbers easily on our receipt but its also extremely important that we make the changes with the Inca Trail authorities)

Student rate: In order to obtain this discount you must have a valid ISIC card. It is important you scan and e-mail this to us at the time of booking and that it is valid on the date you are booked on the Inca Trail/alternative trek (you will need to show the real ISIC card http://www.isiccard.com upon your arrival here in Cusco and in Machu Picchu).

Making a Reservation and payment of deposit:

1. For the classic Inca Trails: 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 or 7 days (Group or Private Service)

We request a $200 non-refundable deposit per person along with your personal details (full name, passport number, gender, nationality, DOB)

The deposit amount is:

US$200 per person for Inca Trail only

Please confirm if you want to climb Wayna Picchu (the 45 minute climb near Machu Picchu site) as it needs to be booked well in advance too; this is US$ 80.00 per person there are 2 time sessions: 7:00 – 8:00 am or 10 – 11am – this also needs to be specified although you need to be flexible to either time. Please note, if you get the permits for the 7am start you will probably have to miss the Machu Picchu guided tour.

Payment of the deposit can be made through any of the 2 following options:

1. a) PayPal. Balance can also be paid by this method (PayPal + 6% transaction fee) up to 15 days prior to departure date (we cannot accept paypal payments once you are in Cusco as paypal often refuses these for security reasons because you are away from home).

1. b) VISA: We accept any visa card but has a charge of 5% .

About the Briefing: The night before your trek there will be a pre-trek talk (briefing) in our office at either 4:00pm or 5:00pm (exact time will be confirmed on your arrival or by email). Your duffle bag will be provided at this time if you have paid for an extra porter for your Inca Trail or if you are doing an alternative trek.

Payment of Final Balance: We require you to pay your final balance in our office at least 48 hours prior to trek departure (please advise if you have any delays on arrival).

You can pay your balance in cash and in US dollars or Peruvian soles.

Cancellations:

(1) Deposit sent for booking is non-refundable nor transferable to any other date, person or tour.

(2) Eco Path Trek must be notified of any changes or cancellations to your trip as soon as you are aware of them, via e-mail or fax so that we do not incur expenses not covered by deposit.

(3) Once final balance has been paid, we will not be able to refund your trek payment in the case of cancellations. There will, however, be parts of your trip that you are able to use (Machu Picchu entrance fee, 1 train ticket, 1 bus ticket).

(4) A claim letter for your insurance company can also be provided by us upon request.

(5) Porter service hired can Not be cancelled (a fee is paid for booking this service).

VERY IMPORTANT (1): We strongly suggest staying at high altitude (above 3000 metres – in Cusco or another high altitude city) for 3 to 4 days (minimum) before undertaking the trip. This is in order to minimize the effects of possible altitude sickness. Also, you can help your body acclimatize by drinking plenty of liquids, adding a bit more sugar to your drinks, eating food rich in carbohydrates, avoiding cigarettes and alcohol and drinking coca (ancient traditional leaf) tea. Diamox can also be helpful – please ask your doctor about this.

VERY IMPORTANT (2): We recommend you arrive in Cusco 48 hours or more before trek departure as we may need to leave earlier than scheduled in case of strikes or other events out of our control (see Force Majeure above)